There are a number of things I like:
- based on regular ANSI layout;
- media keys on the upper right;
- Function keys on the left
It's distinct from 122-key terminal layouts in that it still has a real, regular function row, and in inverted-T . Compared to a 122-key this board is also narrower and less deep meaning it is a better citizen on the desk.
Maybe the modifier row could be better, and Help might be better as two keys instead of one.
The sad part of Sun boards like the lovely Type 5c is that they are all pretty mushy rubber dome boards. At least the 5c has PBT dye subs, the 6 and 7 are progressively worse.
Does anyone know of any mechanical boards - namely with Alps, Cherry, IBM buckling spring, or other nice switches - that replicate this layout?
There is always the Omnikey:
It has a(n, ugh,) big ass Enter and no media keys.
There is always something the this Razer atrocity:
But, only one function row to the left, a weirdly spaced function row up top, and no media keys.
Then there is the Gateway AnyKey:
This is a nice board for a number of reasons but the Enter key and the mushy rubber domes ruin it.
There are of course the IBM 4704 boards:
It has no Function row at all.
Finally there is the great FK-9000:
Very good, but again, no inverted-T arrow cluster, a weird function row spacing (groups of three?!), and an odd numpad. It also comes with a broken calculator for free.
So - is it time to start making cases and PCBs for Sun-style Cherry and Alps boards?
Maybe I can get lot_lizard to make me an MF board in this layout.
