Apple Extended Keyboard II
Apple Extended Keyboard II | |
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Switch | Alps SKCM Ivory Alps SKCM White Ivory Alps SKCL Lock |
Sense method | Metal contact |
Protocol | ADB |
Keycaps | Dye-sub PBT |
The Apple Extended Keyboard II was introduced by Apple in 1990 to replace it's predecessor, the Apple Extended Keyboard.
Construction & Changes
Case & Internals
The case is divided into two halves, a top and bottom-case, as well as the internal assembly. The top-case is secured by a single screw positioned at the back.
Compared to its predecessor, the Apple Extended Keyboard, the keyboard has had a few notable changes in terms of case design:
- The case has a curvy “S” shape to the side, rather than the single upwards swoop on the Apple Extended Keyboard.
- The Apple logo is located at the top-left, rather than on the bottom-left.
- The keyboard features a slider on the back which extends a single plastic foot which runs along most of the length of the keyboard. This allows the keyboard to be tilted, an uncommon feature among Apple keyboards.
Switches
The Apple Standard Keyboard initially came equipped with the Alps SKCM Ivory, while later models came with its replacement, the Alps SKCM White Ivory.
The Caps Lock key is always replaced by a latching switch, namely the Alps SKCL Lock switch.
Keycaps
The keycaps are made primarily from PBT plastic except for the spacebar, which was made in ABS plastic. They boast a unique profile exclusive to Apple keyboards of that era, such as the Apple Standard Keyboard and Apple Extended Keyboard.
However, unique to the Apple Extended Keyboard II, the “Power” keycap has flat profile. This differs from its predecessor, which had the same profile as all the other keycaps in its row.