Using 2 keyboards on one XP box...

May 9, 2006 9:48 AM

I want to expand the number of keys available for mapping as hotkeys in some of my games. Is it possible to connect a second keyboard under Windows XP, possibly a USB one, and use it as, essentially, a very large keypad? If so, how would I go about it without causing IRQ conflicts?

FYI- I am fairly tech savy but am in the "knows enough to break it REALLY good" category with some items.

posted by slavlin to computers & internet (5 comments total)

The Ergodex DX1 Input System is exactly what you want.
posted by spasm at 9:56 AM on May 9, 2006

If you want to play GAMES on it, the Belkin Nostromo N52 is my favorite. You just plug it in and the computer treats it like it's a keyboard. It's inexpensive, and it has a shift-lock system that basically triples the amount of keys you can use. Comes with a scroll wheel and acouple of axis too.

I've updated the drivers from the website without any problems wrestling with the IRQ, and I've got like, 6 joysticks/pads/yoke/pedals connected to the damn thing. :)
posted by Sallysings at 10:23 AM on May 9, 2006

Another keyboard will simply duplicate input. You won't get another 101+ extra keys, or anything like that.

I run this at home -- a wired KB for the games, and a lightweight wireless for programming/writing/etc. The wireless is easier on the fingers, but the wireless lag, no matter how slight, is painful in games, so I use my trusty, 7-year old Compaq keyboard for those.
posted by catkins at 10:42 AM on May 9, 2006

I have an X-Keys for gaming and such, and I love it. The green layer is Windows combo commands, and the red layer is HL2.

Not to be too Bill-and-Ted-ish, but it's most excellent.
posted by SlyBevel at 3:20 PM on May 9, 2006

Sorry, I should have said that I am attempting to NOT spend more money. I have 3 spare keyboards, but the items you are suggesting here are pricey. Especially the one spasm recommended. I may try the Nostromo though as the bang/buck ratio seems to be pretty good.

FYI Catkins- I know that there are programs out that that allow you to "remap" a peripheral device as another type of device but I don't know what they are or how they work.
posted by slavlin at 4:55 PM on May 10, 2006