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Adapting old Apple RJ11 keyboard to USB

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joepshoulak

Aug 4, 2013
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Hey all,

I recently found an old Mac Plus, that eventually I want to get working. In the mean time, I would like to be able to use the keyboard it came with, as it's all old and clacky. Unfortunately, it comes out 4-pin RJ11, and I can't figure out what to do other than to plug it into a phone line and start sending text messages (kidding).

How would I go about converting from RJ11 to USB? Would I have to use PS/2 as an intermediary? Can it be bought off the shelf? If not, I'd be fine wiring it up, but I do want to preserve the current cable (i.e. buying a female end and using that) so I can use it with the Mac Plus when (if) I ever get it up and running.

Thanks for the help!
 

KrisBlueNZ

Sadly passed away in 2015
Nov 28, 2011
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You need to find out what type of keyboard that is. Four wires sounds like ADB (Apple Desktop Bus, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_desktop_bus) but ADB uses Mini-DIN8 connectors, not RJ11, AFAIK.

Whatever it is, to make an adapter yourself you would have to use some kind of programmable device, probably a microcontroller. Some micros come with USB built-in - Microchip PICs, at least. And the keyboard protocol will have to be emulated. And there will probably be key mapping issues that may need to be thought about carefully.

I guess it's possible that such a device may be available, or may have been designed as a project. I'll leave the Googling to you - probably ADB USB keyboard would be good keywords. Assuming your keyboard is ADB.

Good luck!
 

CDRIVE

Hauling 10' pipe on a Trek Shift3
May 8, 2012
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Hey all,

I recently found an old Mac Plus, that eventually I want to get working. In the mean time, I would like to be able to use the keyboard it came with, as it's all old and clacky. Unfortunately, it comes out 4-pin RJ11, and I can't figure out what to do other than to plug it into >>>>>

Here's a thought. Why not plug it into the Mac's keyboard port. :rolleyes: This video seems to indicate that the Mac Plus has a keyboard port (RJ11) on the front of the computer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=jGqcUuHOjJI

Chris
 
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