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Epson Q103a

Epson Q103a
q103a_1.jpg
Switch Alps SKCL Cream
Alps SKCL Green
Sense method Metal contact
Protocol AT
Keycaps Double-Shot ABS, Pad Printed

Description

The Epson Q103a was the keyboard made for the Epson Equity III computer system 1) and uses an AT layout & protocol. It features an assembly by Alps Electric and a standard DIN-5 cable. The sticker on the back shows its FCC ID was filed by Kyocera.

Construction

Case and Internals

The top case is constructed of ABS plastic and externally features a rather unique “forehead” with a Epson logo in its top right. Internally it features plastic screw screw standoffs and a cutout for the DIN-5 cable.

The bottom case is constructed of ABS plastic and externally features a sticker detailing the keyboard's model number, serial number, FCC ID and country of origin.
It has 5 feet in total, 2 flip out feet for adjusting the keyboard's angle and 3 non-slip feet.
The bottom has 4 holes for screws that screw into the top case, and this holds the internal assembly in place and the two case pieces together.
Internally, the bottom features a small standoff in the center for holding up the internal assembly and a cutout for the DIN-5 cable.

The assembly was manufactured by Alps Electric, as evidenced by Alps part numbers on the PCB and plate.
It features a painted steel switch plate and the back features a metal RF shield.

Keycaps

The keycaps are double-shot ABS made by Alps Electric in their OEM profile.
The shine through keycaps use the first shot for the transparent window, and as a result, pad-printing is used for the legends on those keys.
Of note is the fact these caps use a non-standard color scheme. The example pictured is a bit yellowed, but the bottom of the keycaps reveal they're a bit of a darker beige compared to standard alps keycaps and with brown legends.

1)
InfoWorld Magazine, Volume 8, Issue 23, Jun 9, 1986. https://books.google.com/books?id=Ty8EAAAAMBAJ&lpg=PA43&pg=PA43