RT101/L Keyboard

As with all hardware from Leading Edge Products, the RT101/L keyboard was manufactured under license by a third−party hardware producer. For the RT101/L, that manufacturer was NMB Technologies, working on behalf of Leading Edge. The RT101/L keyboard was bundled with the Model D2 Plus DC−2510 computer and featured white sliders that activated keystrokes via rubber dome key switches. It had a 101−key layout, with the model name itself hinting at the number of keys onboard.

Typing on the RT101/L keyboard proved to be a more pleasant experience than one might have initially expected, given its slider−activated rubber dome design. The keys offered more resistive force than anticipated, providing stronger tactile feedback, especially for heavy−handed typists. Its considerable weight prevented it from sliding around on the desk, further contributing to the overall typing comfort.

The styling of the RT101/L was simple and reminiscent of the DC−2014 keyboard that accompanied the venerable Model D. At its most basic, it was a simple rectangle with chamfered ledges and rounded edges. At the top of the keyboard was a broad, plain surface with a ledge just above the function key row, designed to hold pens and pencils without interfering with the function keys. The Leading Edge logo and lettering appeared at the upper left of this otherwise unadorned area. Near the center was a slightly recessed and offset section that contained the keys and indicator LEDs. The lower portion of the top surface was smaller but maintained the same clean, functional styling.

On the underside of the keyboard were the extendable feet, which allowed the rear height to increase from 1.25" to 2" . Without the feet extended, the RT101/L rested on four rubber pads that, combined with its weight, kept it securely in place. Near the center rear of the unit, the coiled AT cable exited the case, alongside a selector switch that allowed the user to set the keyboard to either "AT" or "PC" mode.

The RT101/L was a relatively large keyboard, measuring 19" long by 8" wide, with a height of 1.25" (or 2" with the feet extended). Weighing in at a substantial 3.75 pounds , it generally stayed firmly in position even during extended typing or gaming sessions. Despite its size, an internal inspection revealed that much of the extra space went unused. NMB Technologies had reduced the size of the controller PCB by employing a surface−mount microcontroller and flex ribbon cables. However, the key switch PCB and steel backplate still had to be full−sized, which contributed significantly to the keyboard's overall mass.