Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum

Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: fogman on May 03, 2004, 10:39:09 am

Title: Multiple keyboards
Post by: fogman on May 03, 2004, 10:39:09 am
I am in the final stages of a rotating control panel, but am having problems locating a keyboard.  One thought was to get a few mini keyboards and mount them above the CPs on the up slope side, like a flexible Eumax.  The problem is that I would need 3 of them and don't know if Windows can handle three different keyboards.  They will not have simultaneous key presses, but I am worried that with three keyboards and the Ipac, the CPU will get confused.

Anyone have advice on this...either has had three keyboards conected or knows whether windows can handle it????

Thanks in advance...
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: NY_in_TX on May 03, 2004, 11:08:15 am
why do you need a keyboard on the cp?

your ipac should be able to do everything just fine.  mount one if you have to, or better yet get a wireless so you don't have to see it.

ny


Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: fogman on May 03, 2004, 11:21:06 am
I want the cabinet to also run new games, even though I would not use a mini keyboard for this.  Also, it will be a jukebox and it would be more convenient to use the keyboard to sort down the list, as my MP3 collection is quite large.

I agree that I probably only need the keyboard on on panel...also, I was thinking about placing an illuminated keyboard between the CP and the monitor...Then I would only need the one.
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: dmsuchy on May 03, 2004, 11:25:55 am
I have a Zippy mini keyboard and it works off USB so you could easily plug as many as you want into your USB hubs. Also its really cool lookin cause the keys are lit up blue like my track ball! I got it for around 30 bucks shipped.
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: NY_in_TX on May 03, 2004, 11:52:43 am
cool, I like dmsuchy's idea.  use that cool looking keyboard if you want it to be permanent.  

maybe a keyboard panel?  ehh, seems like such a waste of one of your panels.  Although PC gaming just isn't the same for me without a mouse and keyboard...it also isn't the same if I'm not sitting down, dribbing coke down my shirt.  :P


Good luck, I'm sure it'll turn out great.


ny

Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: gtjoe on May 03, 2004, 01:33:40 pm
Won't a single cordless USB keyboard and some velcro address this problem?

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/productlist_action/US/EN,CRID=24?SelectFeature=5098 (http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/productlist_action/US/EN,CRID=24?SelectFeature=5098)
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: brained on May 03, 2004, 02:14:18 pm
hmmm... is it possible to use two keyboards at the same time, like a PS2 keyboard and a USB keyboard, both connected to the MOBO.

Just like the ps2/usb mouse thing?
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: Silentthunder on May 03, 2004, 08:37:37 pm
Thats what I have right now.  I have a PS/2 keyboard and a USB wireless keyboard.  I use the normal keyboard while at my desk, and the wireless one when I am laying on my bed (right next to the computer desk).  Makes it really hard to write papers for school because I keep falling asleep ;).  Damn bed is too comfortable.  haha.  
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: Silentthunder on May 03, 2004, 08:38:41 pm
Almost forgot.  I have Windows XP Pro.  Dont know if it works for any other OS.  
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: dmsuchy on May 03, 2004, 09:32:54 pm
Quote: hmmm... is it possible to use two keyboards at the same time, like a PS2 keyboard and a USB keyboard, both connected to the MOBO.

Just like the ps2/usb mouse thing?

Yes.
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: SteveJ34 on May 03, 2004, 09:53:24 pm
Just to pipe in on the illuminated Zippy......

I just picked up one of these and yes, the blue lights are kewl.

My control panel has a piano hinge so I can raise the lid rather easy and with the Zippy small size I just keep it stashed inside when not in use.

Steve
Title: Re:Multiple keyboards
Post by: brained on May 04, 2004, 08:46:19 am
Quote: hmmm... is it possible to use two keyboards at the same time, like a PS2 keyboard and a USB keyboard, both connected to the MOBO.

Just like the ps2/usb mouse thing?

Yes.

Ok!! this is great, i was thinking on building the hans keyboard splitter. Who know's maybe i'll build it anyways just for the sport.