Zenith 163-73
 | |
| Part number | 163-73 |
|---|---|
| FCC ID | IFO-557KBD17 |
| Branding | Zenith Data Systems |
| Manufacturer | Alps Electric? |
| Features | Keystroke buzzer (switchable) |
| Keyswitches |
Alps SKCL Yellow Alps SKCL Grey (spacebar) |
| Switch mount | Plate mount |
| Keycaps | Dye sublimated PBT |
| Interface | XT, AT 5 Pin DIN |
| Introduced | 1989? |
Contents
Description
The Zenith 163-73 is an XT/AT compatible keyboard sold by Zenith Data Systems using linear variants of the Alps SKCL/SKCM series of plate mounted switches.
Comparison with Zenith ZKB-2
It is very similar in appearance to the earlier Zenith ZKB-2, sharing case shape and key layout.
Differences from the ZKB-2 include:
- Dye sublimated PBT keycaps
- Blue and green ZDS badge
- Plastic back cover
- XT/AT switch opening in back cover.
- Only available with Alps SKCL Yellow switches
Keystroke Buzzer
Like the ZKB-2, the 163-73 has a piezo keystroke buzzer which emits a short beep/chirp with every keystroke. This feature can be toggled on or off by pressing Alt + ~ (tilde).
Lock Lights
The AT/XT switch features 2 AT modes for changing the color of the in-key lock lights: 'AT/RD' for red and 'AT/GR' for green.
Switches
Linear Alps SKCL Yellow switches are used for all keys except the space bar which uses the Alps SKCL Grey linear switch.
Layout
The layout is based on the standard 101 key ANSI layout with a few variances. The "Enter" key resembles a square "J" occupying the normal enter position and 1u directly above. The "]}" key is elongated to 1.5u and the "\|" key is relocated as a 1u key to the right of a shortened 1.75u right shift. The Ctrl and Alt keys are 1.75u. The altered keys are highlighted below.
