DEC VT180 WPS
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| Model no. | DEC VT180 WPS |
|---|---|
| FCC ID | N/A |
| Branding | DEC |
| Manufacturer | Digital Equipment Corporation/Hi-Tek |
| Layouts | DEC VT180 Word Processing System |
| Keyswitches | Hi-Tek High Profile |
| Interface | Proprietary |
This is a keyboard that came with a DEC VT180 Robin computer. It is an optional Word Processing System specific keyboard that has the same functionality as a DEC VT100 keyboard but has special legends for Word Processing functionality. Of note are the multi-coloured keycaps with the most upper right key on the numeric keypad being gold. This is known as the "Gold Key" and has its own Wikipedia page here. Pressing the Gold key along with a key that had a front legend printed on it would produce the named function.
Another unique feature is that a small number of keys not only have front legends but also "side legends". These are illustrated below in the gallery. A custom mat that is affixed around the keyboard and numeric keypad mechanisms has helper key top graphics printed in various locations to assist the operator in finding hot keys quickly.
This keyboard uses Hi-Tek High Profile key switches.
Gallery
The ICs in this example are from 1981.
Keyboard
Keycaps removed
Keyboard mechanism
Internals
Construction with some keycaps that have side legends
Numeric keypad with Gold key on upper left side
Legends are printed on the surround mat for quick reference
Front legends on left of keyboard
Front legends on right of keyboard
