Description
IBM Model M 1389098 AT Keyboard Buckling Spring 5-Pin DIN 1986
The IBM Model M is one of the most celebrated keyboards in computing history, manufactured by IBM starting in 1984. This example carries part number 1389098 and was built on December 22, 1986 at Plant F1. It uses IBM's legendary buckling-spring switch mechanism — each key actuates via a spring that buckles under finger pressure, producing the distinct tactile bump and audible click that made the Model M famous among typists and programmers. The keyboard connects via a hardwired coiled cable terminating in a 5-pin DIN (AT) connector.
Specifications & What's Included
- Part Number: 1389098
- Model: Model M
- Interface: AT — 5-pin DIN male connector
- Switch Type: Buckling spring (IBM proprietary)
- Cable: Hardwired coiled cable with 5-pin DIN plug
- Layout: Enhanced AT with upper PF-key bank (PF1–PF24 in two rows above main layout)
- Manufacture Date: 22 DEC 1986 (© IBM Corp. 1985)
- Plant Number: F1
- DIP Switch: 8-position switch bank on underside for configuration
- Cable routing channel on underside
- IBM logo badge on upper right of case
- Includes: Keyboard with attached coiled 5-pin DIN cable only — no adapter or documentation
Applications
The IBM Model M was designed for IBM PC AT-class computers and compatible systems equipped with the 5-pin DIN AT keyboard port — including the IBM PC AT (5170), IBM PS/2 (via adapter), and many AT-compatible clone systems of the mid-1980s through early 1990s. The PF-key bank visible on this unit was particularly associated with IBM's business and mainframe terminal emulation environments, where the PF keys mapped directly to 3270/5250 terminal function keys. Today, the Model M remains actively sought by collectors, retro computing enthusiasts, and typists who prefer the tactile and acoustic feedback of buckling-spring switches over modern membrane or rubber-dome keyboards. Modern AT-to-PS/2 and PS/2-to-USB adapters are widely available, allowing Model M keyboards to be used with contemporary systems. This keyboard dates from December 1986 — the early production era of the Model M, placing it among units made when the IBM PC AT was the dominant business computing platform.
This IBM Model M 1389098 AT keyboard has been inspected and appears to be in good used condition. The keycaps show normal yellowing consistent with its 1986 manufacture date, and the case is intact with no cracks or significant damage visible. The coiled 5-pin DIN cable is present and the connector pins are clean and gold-plated. The 8-position DIP switch on the underside is accessible and intact. It was pulled from a working environment where it was previously in use and has not been powered up or bench-tested at our facility. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
IBM |
Model: |
Model M |
MPN: |
1389098 |
SKU: |
27876 |
Type: |
AT Mechanical Keyboard |
Switch Type: |
Buckling Spring |
Connector Type: |
5-Pin DIN (AT) |
Interface: |
AT (5-Pin DIN) |
Layout: |
Enhanced AT Layout with PF-key bank |
Manufacture Date: |
22 DEC 86 (December 22, 1986) |
Plant Number: |
F1 |
DIP Switch: |
8-position DIP switch on underside |
Cable Type: |
Coiled / Curly cable, hardwired |
Compatible With: |
IBM PC AT, XT systems with AT keyboard port |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Seller Notes: |
Keyboard only with attached coiled 5-pin DIN cable — no adapter or documentation included. |
Condition Notes: |
This IBM Model M 1389098 AT keyboard is in good used condition with normal yellowing on the keycaps. Case is intact, coiled 5-pin DIN cable present, DIP switches intact. Pulled from a working environment; not tested at our facility. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |