Review of the Northgate OmniKey/102 Keyboard Copyright 1988 David W. Batterson Last year I evaluated Northgate's "C/T" Enhanced 101 keyboard, a big improvement over usual clone keyboards. Now Northgate has a newer and even better model which will satisfy those users who are as fussy about keyboards as I am. It's the OmniKey/102, manufactured by Sefco Computer Products, Taiwan, and featuring sealed electro-mechanical key switches made by Alps Corp. First of all, the OmniKey/102 case is about an inch longer than the "C/T" 101, but is about an inch narrower. The case is metal, not recycled plastic spoons like cheesy keyboards. And the hefty 5.5-pound weight keeps it from sliding around your desk like an itinerant mouse. Apparently, the majority of users like their function keys on the left side, not on top. So the OmniKey/102 followed suit. The key (Bravo!) has been moved from the upper left corner down next to the number 1 key; it's a much easier reach. The key is now EXACTLY where I like it: left of the A key. Other keyboards usually have below the left key; that's NOT a good place for it. Caps Lock is just left of the spacebar, and OK with me as I don't use it a lot. The \| key is on the right of the right key, and that's also convenient. The Backspace key is oversized, making it easy to hit with your right pinky. Too many users just don't think about key placement or tactile feel until they get their new PC and start banging away on the keyboard. Then they realize that it doesn't have the feel of an electric typewriter they may be used to, and some keys seem awkwardly positioned. Northgate even added an = key on the numeric keypad, to the right of the number 6 key, for those who use a 10-key calculator by touch. Another nice touch is that the , and are color-coded to complement WordPerfect. (Northgate will soon offer a set of 12 keycaps for WordPerfect users too.) The keycap-labeling is not done with decals as I've seen on some keyboards. The manufacturer uses a double injection molding method. The OmniKey/102 is compatible with most XT, AT and 386 computers. If it doesn't work properly, Northgate explains that the problem is with your PC; an older ROM BIOS doesn't recognize 101/102 keyboards. For PS/2 models, you will need an optional ($25) adaptor. Northgate also offers an interesting option for AT/386 users. By ordering the TurboKB software ($7.95), it speeds up the cursor to 50 cps. This is probably recommended for spreadsheet users. While the feel of the C/T 101 is excellent, the touch of the OmniKey/102 has been improved, with a more solid feel to it. This is a product which gets an A+. I cannot think of anything more I'd like to see in a keyboard, except maybe a pen holder and coffee maker! There's a three-year warranty on this keyboard too; $99 is the price. Contact: Northgate Computer Systems, 13895 Industrial Park Blvd., Suite 110, Plymouth, MN 55441; (800) 526-2446 or (612) 553-0111; FAX (612) 553-1695. # Computer writer and consultant David Batterson says that "mushy" is OK for oatmeal but not for keyboards. Contact him via MCI MAIL: DBATTERSON.