Quartech IKB-1000 User manual

Product Manual
IKB-1000
Industrial Programmable Keyboard
for IBM Compatible Computers
Quartech Corporation
15923 Angelo Drive
Macomb Township, Michigan 48042-4050
Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]
www.QuartechCorp.com
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The product described in this document can have avariety of uses, the user and those responsible for
applying this equipment must satisfy themselves astotheacceptabilityofeachapplicationand the use of the
unit. Under no circumstances will QUARTECH CORPORATION be responsible or liable for any damage,
including indirect or consequential losses resulting from the use, misuse, or application of the unit.
The text, illustrations, charts, and examples included in this document are intended solely to help explain
applications of the product. Due to the many variables associated with specific uses or applications,
QUARTECH CORPORATION cannot assume responsibility or liability for actual use based upon the data
provided in this document.
NopatentliabilityisassumedbyQUARTECHCORPORATIONwithrespecttotheuseofcircuits,information,
equipment, or software described in this document.
This document is subject to change without notice.

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Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction .............................. 3
Section 2: User Defined Keys ....................... 5
2.1 Edit Key Assignment File ............................. 6
2.1.1 Macro key sequence ............................ 7
2.2 File (load and save) ................................. 7
2.3 Send to IKB-1000 ................................... 7
2.4 Options ........................................... 8
2.5 Exit .............................................. 8
Section 3: More about the IKB-1000 ................. 9
3.1 Keys and scan codes ................................ 9
3.2 Cabling ........................................... 9
3.3 Legend Cards ..................................... 10
3.4 Status LED ....................................... 10
3.5 Troubleshooting hints ............................... 11
Appendix A .......................................... 12

Section 1: Introduction Page 3
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Quartech's IKB-1000 is a family of ruggedly constructed, industrial keyboards. Each member of the IKB
family has been designed specifically for use with IBM PS/2, PC/AT, and PC/XT compatible computers.
The IKB-1000 plugs directly into the computers keyboard port and does not require any computer resident
program to function.
Here are some key features.....
<Rugged construction: Built for harsh industrial environments.
<NEMA 4/12: Panel mounted version maintains NEMA 4 and NEMA 12 enclosure ratings.
<Custom key layout: 36 user defined keys may be programmed to act like almost any key on the
standard 101-key keyboard.
<Macro keys: Multiple keystroke "macro" strings may be programmed into the user defined keys. Up
to 60 keystrokes may be programmed into one key.
<Auxiliary Keyboard Port: A standard 101-key keyboard may be plugged into the IKB-1000. The
IKB-1000 will pass keys from this auxiliary keyboard on to the host computer.
<Sealed window: A NEMA 4/12 sealed window is available to protect your 19" video display.
The keyboard may be mounted on one of three different bezel assemblies, as shown below.
IKB-1011 IKB-1021
Panel Mount CRT/Keyboard Bezel 19" Rack Mount CRT/Keyboard Bezel
IKB-1041
Panel Mount Keyboard Bezel

Section 1: Introduction Page 4
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The following accessories are included with each IKB-1000:
IKB-1063 Interface Cable
5 Pin DIN to 6 Pin Mini-DIN Adapter 6 Pin Mini-DIN to 5 Pin DIN Adapter
IKB-1061 File Transfer Cable
Programming Power Supply (Wall Transformer)
IKB-1080
Key Assignment
Utility Software

Section 2: IKB-1000 (User defined keys) Page 5
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Edit File Send Options Exit
IKB-1080 Key Assignment Utility, V3.0. Copyright 1990, 1991. Quartech Corp.
Each of the 36 user defined keys can be programmed to generate the scan code sequence of almost any
key on the 101 key keyboard. Also, each of the keys may be programmed as a macro. A macro key
allows you to program a number of keystrokes into one key. When the operator presses a macro key, the
IKB-1000 will generate the scan code sequence of each key that was programmed into the macro string.
(See section 2.1.1 for more details on macro keys). A simple software utility allows the user to create a
file defining each key. The file can then be sent to the IKB-1000 via the computer's serial communication
port. Since the IKB-1000 stores the data file in nonvolatile memory (EEPROM), you only have to program
it once, but you can change the program as often as needed.
An auxiliary keyboard port is provided that allows an external keyboard to be active at the same time as
the IKB-1000. The IKB-1000 will accept input at the auxiliary keyboard port and pass these key codes
through to the host computer. In this way, the IKB and the external keyboard can be online at the same
time.
IKB-1080 Key Assignment Utility
The IKB-1080 Key Assignment Utility is a computer program that allows you to define the scan code
sequence that will be transmitted by each of the 36 user defined keys. The IKB-1080 software is only
needed to configure the IKB-1000 keyboard. Once this is done, the keyboard is a stand alone device that
can be used with any compatible computer. The IKB-1080 software does not need to be installed on the
host computer to use the keyboard.
Minimum hardware requirements for the IKB-1080: IBM PC/XT, PC/AT, PS/2, or 100% compatible
computer running under MS-DOS 2.1 or greater with an asynchronous serial communication port.
To start the program, type: IKB-1080 at the DOS prompt.
The IKB-1080 program's display screen will look like figure 2.1.
+)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))),
******************
.))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))-
+)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))),
******************
.))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))-
+)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))), +)))),
******************
.))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))- .))))-
Figure 2.1

Section 2: IKB-1000 (User defined keys) Page 6
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Macro Shift Ctrl Alt CapsLock ^Break PrtSc Clear Done
Enter Remove Cancel Done
2.1 Edit
Select the Edit option from the top menu, to edit or create the key assignment file. 36 boxes are arranged
on the screen to represent the 36 user defined keys provided on the IKB-1000. In the Editor, the arrow
keys are used to choose which one of the 36 keys is to be assigned. Then simply press the key or key
sequence that you want to be reproduced by the IKB-1000, and the IKB-1080 program will keep a record
of it. A separate record is kept for each key, and all of these records are bound together into a file. Later
you will see how to name this file, save it to a diskette, and send it to the IKB-1000.
TA key sequence is a series of key strokes that the computer interprets as a single character or
command, for example: [Shift]+[4] is interpreted as the '$' character, and [Ctrl]+[C] is interpreted as
the 'Break' command. The IKB-1000 allows key sequences such as this to be programmed into one
key.
TTo avoid difficulty when assigning special command keys such as [Break] or [PrtSc], an alternate
method of assigning keys is needed. In the editor, the top line menu lists the keys and key sequences
that need special care (see figure 2.2). The keys and key sequences listed in the menu must be
assigned, not by pressing the key, but by making a selection from the menu. For example, to assign
the [Ctrl] key: press the [Enter] key to gain access to the menu; use the [Arrow] keys to highlight 'Ctrl';
then press [Enter] again to make your selection. You may program any key or key sequence in the
menu using a similar procedure.
Figure 2.2 Editor's top line menu.
TSome keys and key sequences cannot be programmed by the IKB-1080. The [Num Lock], [Scroll
Lock], [Sys Req] and [Pause] keys cannot be programmed, also [Ctrl]+[Alt]+[Del] is a key sequence
that cannot be programmed. Obviously the arrow keys and [Enter] key cannot be programmed, but
your Industrial Keyboard is already provided with these keys.
TTo exit the editor, select 'Done' from the top menu.
2.1.1 Macro key sequence
Each of the 36 user defined keys may be assigned a macro key sequence to transmit when pressed. The
IKB-1000 will allow up to 60 keystrokes to be programmed into one macro key. This is a very powerful
feature. For example, a macro key might be used to enter a frequently used identification number. Using a
macro key, the number can be reproduced quickly and accurately every time. To create or edit a macro
key, select 'Macro' from the editor's top line menu (Figure 3.2). You will then be allowed to enter a string of
keystrokes that will be transmitted when the macro key is pressed.
TA maximum of 60 keystrokes may be assigned to any one macro key. The total number of keystrokes
for all macro keys must not exceed 481. You don't have to count these keys, the software will not let
you exceed the maximums.
TSome keys sequences like [Ctrl]+[c] and [Alt]+[a] use more memory. Therefore, you may not reach
the ideal maximum of 60 keys per macro.
Figure 2.3 Macro's top line menu.
Figure 2.3 shows the top line menu for the macro editor. Since the [Enter] key is used to gain access to

Section 2: IKB-1000 (User defined keys) Page 7
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the menu, you must select 'Enter' from the menu to use the [Enter] key in a macro.
The 'Remove' option acts like a back space key, to delete the last keystroke from the macro string.
The 'Cancel' option will discard all changes made during the current editing session, and exit the macro
editor.
The 'Done' option will save any changes made during the current editing session, and exit the macro
editor.
2.2 File
The key assignment file, created using the editor, can be saved to a diskette and, once saved, can be
reloaded into the computer using the 'File' option from the top menu (Figure 2.1). When saving the file to
a diskette, you will be asked to provide a name for the file. The file name must follow MS-DOS file name
conventions, and the whole string, including drive, path, file name, and extension must not exceed 60
characters.
2.3 Send
The 'Send' menu option must be used to send the key assignment file out your computer's serial
communication port, to the IKB-1000. Follow these steps for trouble free operation:
1) Connect the IKB-1061 File Transfer cable to the serial port located at the left side of the rear
cover on the IKB-1000. Also insert the power supply power plug into the socket at the bottom of
the rear cover.
2) The IKB-1000 has two round DIN connectors located at the bottom of the rear cover; one to
connect an external keyboard, and one to connect the IKB-1000 to your computer. Remove any
cables that may be connected to the DIN connectors. There should not be any cables connected
to these, while programming the IKB-1000.
3) The other end of the File Transfer cable (the 9-pin female) should now be plugged into the
computer's serial port (COM1 or COM2).
4) Apply power to the IKB-1000 by plugging the wall mount transformer into a 120 VAC wall socket.
The LED, next to the serial port, should light amber.
5) Select 'Send' from the top line menu, to begin the transfer.
The computer will transmit the data file out COM1 or COM2 depending on the serial port switch in the IKB-
1080's option window (see section 2.4). If everything goes well, it will take only a few seconds to transfer
the file. When the file transfer is complete, the status LED on the IKB-1000 will flash green. If the transfer
is not successful, the LED will flash red.
After the key assignment file is successfully programmed, the IKB-1061 cable and power supply must be
removed from the IKB-1000 before normal keyboard operation can begin. If the cable is left in place, the
unit will enter program mode every time power is applied.
2.4 Options

Section 2: IKB-1000 (User defined keys) Page 8
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XT key file:
By default the IKB-1000 is configured as a PS/2 type keyboard. It will work with PS/2 type computers or
PC/AT type computers. The IKB can be configured as a PC/XT type keyboard by selecting 'XT Key File'
from the Options menu.
COM2:
By default the IKB-1080 software will use the computer's COM1 port to send the key assignment file to the
IKB-1000. Select 'COM2' from the Options menu to use the COM2 port instead.
2.5 EXIT
Select "Exit" from the top menu to leave the IKB-1080 Key Assignment Utility and return to DOS.

Section 3: More about the IKB-1000 Page 9
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This section contains general information that applies to all members of the IKB-1000 family.
3.1 Keys and scan codes
All single character keys (i.e. number keys, arrow keys, function keys, etc.) are make/break and
typematic. The make scan code is sent when the key is pressed. When the key is released, the break
scan code is sent. If the key is pressed and held down, the IKB-1000 sends the make code, delays for 500
ms, and begins sending the make code for the key at a rate of 10.9 codes per second. Typematic
operation stops when the key is released.
All multiple character keys (i.e. [Shift]+[key], [Ctrl]+[key], and [Alt]+[key]) are make only. When the key is
pressed, the IKB-1000 sends the make scan code sequence immediately followed by the break code
sequence. For example: the [Shift+F1] key will send the Shift key make code then the F1 make code
immediately followed by the F1 brake code and the Shift key brake code. No typematic operation is
performed, and no scan code is sent when the key is released.
3.2 Cabling
The IKB-1000 communicates with the Computer via a detachable, serial communication cable (model
IKB-1063). One end of the cable should be plugged into the IKB-1000, at the connector labeled "IKB-1000
OUTPUT". This connector is located at the bottom of the rear cover. The other end of the cable should be
connected to the computer's keyboard port. If necessary, use the "6 Pin Mini-DIN to 5 Pin DIN" adapter
provided with the IKB-1000.
The port labeled "AUXILIARY KEYBOARD INPUT", is provided to allow an auxiliary keyboard (perhaps a
standard 101 key keyboard) to communicate with the computer at the same time as the IKB-1000. The "5
Pin DIN to 6 Pin Mini-DIN" adapter is provide for use with external keyboard having 5 Pin DIN connectors.
The IKB-1000 is powered by the computer, through the keyboard cable. The computer supplies 5 VDC
at no more than 275 ma.
The communication signals are low voltage (5 VDC) signals, therefore extra care should be taken when
routing the communication cable. Follow these guidelines for a trouble free installation.
TUse only shielded cable, and do not use a cable that is more than 10 feet long.
TKeep the cable away from AC power lines. If possible, keep the cable at least one foot from 120 VAC
lines, and at least two feet away from higher voltage lines.
TIf the cable must cross AC power lines, cross them at right angles.
TIf you route the cable through conduit, the conduit should contain only other low voltage
communication cables or DC signals. Do not run the cable in conduit that contains AC power lines or
RF communication signals.
TKeep the cable away from sources of high energy fields such as arc welders, AC motors, motor
starters, servo controllers, generators, induction heaters, and transformers.

Section 3: More about the IKB-1000 Page 10
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3.3 Legend Cards
Each of the 36 user defined keys have a 7/8" square legend area which allows the user to label each key;
a set of legend cards is included. The legend cards are kept clean by inserting them into a 'see through'
pocket underneath the polyester overlay.
To gain access to the pocket in the keyboard overlay, it is necessary to withdraw the keyboard assembly
from the IKB-1000 bezel. To do this, remove the 18, No.6, KEP nuts from the rear of the keyboard backing
plate. The keyboard assembly can now be removed from the bezel.
The three legend card pockets are open at the top edge of the keyboard overlay. After labeling each
legend card, carefully cut it to size and insert it into the pocket from the top down. Assembly of the
keyboard to the bezel is the reverse of removal; take care to align the gasket properly.
3.4 Status LED
The IKB-1000 is provided with a tri-color status LED visible through a hole in the rear cover.
IKB-1000 Status LED Summary
LED Status Indication Possible Cause
Steady Green: Normal keyboard
operation.
Steady Red: Basic Assurance Test
(BAT) failure. Bad key assignment file. Power down then up; if
problem continues,
reprogram the key
assignment file (see
Section 2).
Steady Amber: The IKB-1000 is in
program mode. It is
waiting for download
from computer.
The IKB-1061 cable is
plugged into the IKB's
programming port.
Green flash: Key assignment file
successfully
programmed.
Red flash: Error on key
assignment file
download.
1) Not compatible key
assignment file.
2) Time-out waiting for
computer to download.

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3.5 Troubleshooting hints:
Caps Lock and Num Lock:
The Caps Lock and Num Lock functions of IBM personal computers are controlled by the computer, not
the keyboard. When you press the [Caps Lock] key on your keyboard, it sends a signal to the computer to
enter Caps Lock mode. The computer will stay in Caps Lock mode, even if the keyboard is removed, until
you press the [Caps Lock] key again. The same is true for Num Lock. If the computer is in Caps Lock or
Num Lock mode when you plug in your IKB-1000, operation may not be as expected.
Scan Code sets (AT/XT Mode)
The IKB-1000 will transmit either PS/2, AT (scan code set 2) or XT (scan code set 1) scan codes. If the
keyboard apparently does not work, it may be set to transmit the wrong scan codes.

Appendix A: Mechanical Dimensions Page 12
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IKB-1011
14.75" Wide x 11.50" High Window
All dimensions
in inches.

Appendix A: Mechanical Dimensions Page 13
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14.75" Wide x 11.50" High Window
IKB-1021
Side profile is typical
for all units.
All dimensions in inches.

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IKB-1041
All dimensions in inches.

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IKB-1041 (Rear View)
All dimensions in inches.