Need Help Using a Proprietary Laptop Keyboard on a Custom Computer?

[SlidemanD]

Hello all,

I recently parted out an old dell notebook and am left with a nice, tactile, small, flat keyboard. I want to install it on my frankenstein computer, which has a very convenient case mod for this. I've looked around for pinouts and such to get ps2 or usb going, but to no avail. what kind of hardware must I find/build to achieve compatibility? Is it a simple pinout or do I need an IC? Any of you hardware wizards done something like this? any help is greatly appreciated.

-SlidemanD

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

Laptop keyboards don't use any standard connections. You'll need to find a way to convert it to USB or PS2. There is software like VNC that will let you use your laptop keyboard to control your desktop, but it will cost $$. And for that $$ you might as well buy one of those super flat apple keyboards.

 

[cesiumfrog]

Which model?

 

[SlidemanD]

It's an old Dell Latitude, and I'm not even sure if the controller is on the keyboard itself or integrated in the mobo.

 

[LudusRex]

I am not an expert in computer hardware and cannot provide specific advice on how to achieve compatibility with the proprietary laptop keyboard. However, I understand your desire to repurpose and use the keyboard on your frankenstein computer. In order to achieve compatibility, you may need to research and potentially build or find an appropriate IC (integrated circuit) that can act as an intermediary between the keyboard and your computer. It is also important to carefully consider the pinout and ensure it is compatible with your computer's hardware. I suggest consulting with hardware experts or conducting further research to find a solution that meets your needs. Good luck with your project!