IBM 1385167 Model F Keyboard 5250 Terminal Buckling Spring XT IO-NO F5146

IBM 1385167 Model F Keyboard 5250 Terminal Buckling Spring XT IO-NO F5146

The IBM 1385167 is a full-size Model F keyboard manufactured in July 1985, featuring IBM's legendary buckling spring switch mechanism. Model F keyboards are widely regarded as among the finest keyboards ever produced, delivering a highly tactile and audible keystroke through a capacitive buckling spring design that differs from the later Model M's membrane-over-membrane construction. This example carries a 5250 terminal layout — the specialized key arrangement used with IBM's midrange computing systems — and connects via a 5-pin DIN connector for IBM PC XT-compatible systems. An 8-position DIP switch bank on the underside allows configuration of the keyboard's scan code and mode settings.

Specifications & What's Included

• Manufacturer: IBM
• Part Number (PT-NO): 1385167
• IO-NO: F5146
• EC-NO: 528509
• PLT-NO: FL11
• Model designation: Model F
• Manufacture date: 29 July 1985
• Switch type: Buckling spring (capacitive)
• Layout: 5250 terminal — includes PF11–PF24 function keys, Dup, Field Mark, PA1, PA2, PA3 keys, and numeric pad
• Connector: 5-pin DIN (IBM PC XT interface)
• DIP switch: 8-position DIP switch bank on underside for mode/scan code configuration
• Color: Beige/putty
• Included: Keyboard with attached original coiled 5-pin DIN cable
• Not included: No additional accessories or adapters

Applications

The IBM Model F keyboard was introduced in the early 1980s alongside IBM's PC, PC XT, and the 5250 family of terminals used with System/34, System/36, System/38, and AS/400 midrange computers. The 5250-layout variant — like this unit — was designed specifically for data-entry and transaction-processing environments common in corporate and government settings of that era. Today, IBM Model F keyboards are highly sought after by vintage computing enthusiasts, mechanical keyboard collectors, and retro-computing hobbyists who prize the unmatched feel and build quality of the buckling spring mechanism. They are also used by owners of period-correct IBM PC XT systems seeking original, matching peripherals. Adapters are available from third-party vendors to allow 5-pin DIN Model F keyboards to function on modern PS/2 or USB systems, which has further expanded the collector and daily-use audience for these keyboards.