I’m looking for a mouse and keyboard that will work for my retro 98SE build while also being acceptable for playing on my windows 11 pc that’s connected via KVM at the same desk.
Requirement is for it to use PS/2 so I don’t have to connect another input device because the USB driver decided not to load on 98.
I’ve been trying to google for information but not getting a lot of good answers. Thanks in advance for your advice folks
There are buckling spring Model M and M2 keyboards that will use PS/2 or the easily converted AT. Also look for Focus boards (Alps white) or various Cherry boards (usually Cherry black) with either of those connectors. Hell, I’ve been trying to offload a Tai Hao with Alps clones and an AT plug for a while now.
Quality of boards takes a nose dive once they start coming with “Win” keys, but you can find decent ones even with that. Gotta be more careful if you want anything other than a run of the mill rubber dome though.
If you want new, you could try to contact Unicomp at pckeyboard.com, they may still have some beige ones in the warehouse, and they already offer special orders for other stuff, so at a minimum they won’t think you’re crazy for asking.
Mouse is a little harder, as the technology is legitimately much better now. Still, both Microsoft and Logitech sold a few native PS/2 mice with three buttons and a scroll wheel; I guess it’s possible that some of the ones that come with their own USB to PS2 converters would work fine even when re-converted back, but I’m not sure. If you get a ball mouse, remember to clean the crud-rings out from time to time.