View Full Version : Windows Keyboard on iMac
Is it possible to use a Windows keyboard with a PS/2 connector on an iMac G5 (http://www.apple.com/imac/)? I really want to get a G5, but I have to use a KeyTronic Lifetime Trackball Keyboard (http://www.keytronic.com/home/products/specs/lttballps2.htm), which is a Windows-compatible PS/2 keyboard with integrated trackball.
The KeyTronic specs have OS/2 listed under system requirements. I'm hoping I can get a PS/2 to USB adapter, remap a few keys and be good to go.
Thanks.
Squeaky, you may want to call the Key Tronic Corp. to find out if you can or what will you need to use this Windows keyboard on an iMac G5. Good Luck!
1-800-262-6006
PN
teyrn
01-09-2005, 09:45 PM
It maybe possible with a ps2 to usb addapter if the keyboard uses genaric keyboard and mouse drivers. If the keyboard and mouse have specialized drivers provided by the manufacturer or programable keys then it would need specialized drivers for the imac.
http://www.tuath.org/files/sig.jpg
The keyboard doesn't use any proprietary drivers, so hopefully I can connect it to a PS/2-to-USB splitter (http://www.welovemacs.com/usb2400.html), remap the control keys and use it on the iMac. I'll check with KeyTronic to see what they say.
I just wish I could find a Mac keyboard with the same configuration http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/images/smilies/frown.gif ...
Scott Pruett
01-10-2005, 10:55 AM
what about this one?
http://www.datadesktech.com/images/TBoard.jpg
see: http://www.datadesktech.com/desktop_base.html
Thanks, Scott. Unfortunately, I need the trackball to be located below the spacebar. That way, I can move the cursor with my left thumb while pressing the buttons with the pencil strapped to my right hand.
teyrn
01-11-2005, 11:20 AM
Originally posted by squeakywheel:
Thanks, Scott. Unfortunately, I need the trackball to be located below the spacebar. That way, I can move the cursor with my left thumb while pressing the buttons with the pencil strapped to my right hand.
Have you tried one of the keyboards with a touch pad bellow the space bar? they are not as easy to use as a trackball ( I hate the one on my laptop) but maybe an option? I agree with you that a usb-ps2 adapter may work since the keyboard and trackball combo don't require any specialized drivers. I wish you the best and envy you getting a G5 (i want a mac so bad)
http://www.tuath.org/files/sig.jpg
I don't get along well with touchpads, which is frustrating because there are several mac keyboards with touchpads located right where I need a trackball. http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif
According to KeyTronic technical support:
The LT TBALL PS2 is a "PS2 Only" keyboard, it will only work correctly when plugged into a PS2 keyboard port. Unfortunately the LT TBALL PS2 is not MAC compatible.
Oh well, I guess only people with full hand function get to "switch" http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/images/smilies/frown.gif ...
Squeeky,
When you get the iMac G5, will you still have your PC with the KeyTronic keyboard?
PN
I'll still have my PC, but I don't plan on keeping it.
Several people on the Apple discussion boards are saying that you can use any PC keyboard on the new Macs.
I think I'm just going to have to find an iMac to plug this keyboard into and see what happens ...