Epson AP1003A

The Epson AP1003A is an AT-layout PC keyboard with linear Alps switches. It was manufactured for use with the 1987 Epson Apex 100 XT-class budget computer, presumably by Gold Star Alps.¹⁾

It is one of a limited number of vintage keyboards documented with Alps SKCL Brown.

The case bears a visually strong resemblance to other Alps AT-layout keyboards of the time, such as the Packard Bell KCLEA907L and KCLEA916A. The top half features the Epson logo at the top left. Oddly, the lock light sticker lacks a Scroll Lock indicator despite the presence of a Scroll Lock key.

The bottom case features standard-sized adjustable flip out feet and two non-slip square feet, along with six screw sockets and four visible clips. Four additional round holes are present as part of the tray mount. The coiled, non-removable 5P DIN cable runs out from the right side of the bottom case. The grey label features a S/N, model number, and “MADE IN KOREA”.

The board shares its PCB code (12KC618A) with that of the PCBs in the Packard Bell KCLEA907L and KCLEA916A. It is capable of N-Key rollover.

Two variations exist, the first being a model with Alps SKCL Brown as the primary switch and Alps SKCL Amber as the heavier spacebar switch. The second uses Alps SKCL Green and Alps SKCL Cream for the spacebar.²⁾

The keycaps are standard Alps Electric Doubleshot ABS. All legends appear to possess a grey-ish “charcoal” color that is also present on the Epson Q103A, as opposed to the pure black legends on other Alps keycaps. Homing bumps are absent from both the alphanumeric cluster and the keypad. The blank key on the numpad is doubleshot even though it has no legend on it.

Legend color compared to that of the equivalent keycap on the Leading Edge DC-2014

The example depicted has been slightly yellowed. The “E” switch demonstrates the “lipstick” highlight on the slider, note the slightly different color.