SNKB-M2021-SSK-87
Notes
This is an engineering sample (serial #2021001) given to me by Unicomp for critical testing. This keyboard was featured in an article about my time with it and what issues I raised with Unicomp. As a summary; compared to the final release version, this prototype runs prerelease firmware that is less effective at stopping phantom key generation, came with keys with minor legend alignment issues, and an issue where the controller board can be moved from applying pressure to the USB port.
| Full Name | Unicomp Mini Model M |
| Part NumberPart Number The number used to describe this keyboard's specific release; usually specific for a target region, language or SKU, etc. |
UB40E7A |
| TypeType A designation from my own type naming scheme used to categorise this keyboard with or from others by their common features and market intent but may/may not be derived from official names. |
Mini Model M Space Saving Keyboard |
| NicknameNickname A [keyboard enthusiast] community given name for this keyboard. It can be a shortening of its name and properties, a more abstract term, a real-life reference, or metonymy. |
Mini M |
| KeyswitchesKeyswitches The name of the known switching mechanism that lies under this keyboard's keys. |
IBM membrane buckling springs |
| Original KeycapsOriginal Keycaps The keyboard's original keycaps' material and text/symbol printing technique. |
PBT with dye-sublimated legends |
| FeetFeet The style of this keyboard's flip-out or extendable feet. If applicable, this may also state how many levels of height adjustment are available and whether the feet could be rubberised. |
Single-setting flip-out feet |
| ProtocolProtocol The protocol(s) this keyboard can use to speak to the host computer (eg, scancode sets). |
USB HID |
| ConnectionConnection The keyboard-to-host connection. This is could be a description of a cable (its colour, whether its coiled, whether its detachable, and what connector is at its end) or the name of a wireless technology. |
Black straightened-style detachable Type A USB to Type A USB cable |
| Form FactorForm Factor The standardised or universally acknowledged name for this keyboard's layout form factor. |
Tenkeyless |
| Production Date | 2021-01-26 |
| Acquisition Date | 2021-02-04 |
About this keyboard type
The Unicomp Mini Model M (or simply "Mini M") is the long-awaited spiritual successor to the IBM Space Saving Keyboard (SSK) and is presently the latest Model M variant introduced. It was announced in December 2019 and finally started shipping in March 2021. Whilst the Mini M is based on the SSK's core design, it sports an upgraded membrane assembly matrix and USB interface capable of larger key combinations around the alphanumeric keys, [blue] lock-light LEDs, a modular and pressure-locking Type-A USB port, and is available (and presently only) in black. The left/right bezel footprint is also slightly diminished compared to the SSK, similar to the Type III/IV 122-key Model M's and matching Unicomp New Model M's side edge-to-key bezels. Like the New Model M, this keyboard is built with Unicomp's latest tooling which is a marked improvement over the quality of the aged tooling other Unicomp keyboards are currently produced with.
