sharktastica

IBM 5281/5282/5285/5286 Data Station Typewriter Keyboard (P/N 2658984)

Quick summary:

• 528X-83 type Model B keyboard
• 83-key Italian layout
• IBM beam spring clicky key-switches
• Double-shot SAN keycaps
• Made by IBM Italia
• Some call this the "beamfoot" as it resembles the later IBM 5291/5292 Model F keyboard but in Model B form
• The speaker present was likely used to simulate what a solenoid did for other Model B keyboards or provide audible cues from the system

That's a lot of numbers in the name... I hear you. This is what I call a 528X-83 type Model B keyboard! 528x family, 83 keys. I call it so because the habit of calling most IBM Model B(eamspring) keyboards by simply "5281", "5251", "3276", etc. isn't really accurate, in my opinion and experience. As per the cable tab from the speaker, this keyboard must've been made in the first half of 1981.

The IBM 5280 Distributed Data System was announced in January 1980 and was a 'diskette-based system' for distributed processing and data entry. There were several data stations within the family:

• IBM 5281 Data Station
• IBM 5282 Dual Data Station
• IBM 5285 Programmable Data Stationn
• IBM 5286 Dual Programmable Data Station

The stations themselves resembled the more common 5250 series terminals such as the 5251 and 5252. 5281 and 5285 were single-operator stations, 5282 and 5286 were dual-operator stations. 5285 and 5286 were additionally "programmable" stations. My understanding is that thee dual-operator ones had a single CRT inside that's optically split to either user. A 66-key data entry version of this keyboard also exists.

This was a new-in-box Lexmark-branded Model M13, a buckling spring keyboard with a nub/nipple/whatever-you-call-it stick! Unlike most IBM-branded versions, Lexmark-branded M13s use a different kind of sensor array for the stick (force-sensing resistors instead of strain gauges) hence why Lexmark doesn't brand this as "TrackPoint". Like Unicomp EnduraPro sticks, it moves like a little joy-stick instead of remaining stationary. Instead of dual PS/2 plugs, this model has an AT full-DIN plug for the keyboard and DE-9 RS232 serial plug for the nub. For more info, see my IBM Model M13 wiki page!

In the box was also a driver disk (an image of which will soon be archived on my website and archive.org) and various Lexmark literature including a snazzy Lexmark Model M family pamphlet, a keyboard operator's guide (user guide) and something that dictates how you're supposed to a sit at a computer desk.

Upon opening, the cable quickly degraded and started shedding everywhere. In lieu of a replacement, I've tapped and wrapped already damaged parts, used cable ties to limit possible flex and left most of the cable alone in the original packing. For now though, the keyboard and cable remains operational.

My current earliest IBM Model M based keyboard, and one of the earliest Model Ms ever recorded! Whilst the overall assembly design 'language' is clearly Model M, there are some unique features to such early IBM Wheelwriter 5 (and Wheelwriter 3 and Quietwriter 7) keyboards including O-rings around each populated buckling spring barrel and 'cushionless' flippers.

See my website for more info on Model M family keyboards and buckling springs!