Ascent automation manufactures ibm pc-at compatible membrane keyboard. This keyboard specially designed for use with standard man-machine interface software packages [for e.G. Freelance 2000 from abb] which have facility to assign keyboard macros for various functions. The keyboard has 32 extra keys which can be factory programmed to fire off combination codes. These 32 blank keys have been provided with window for inserting labels with function names like alarm list, event list, start, stop etc. This makes the software easy to use. It effectively over comes the need to remember the combination for a particular function nor does the user area of a screen be sacrificed for a cluttered menu for aiding the operator. The keyboard has a vacuum formed hdpe housing which looks elegant and is sturdy enough for regular use. The membrane color scheme can be user defined. Three led indicators have been provided, one each for caps lock, num lock and scroll lock. The keyboard has a keylock switch for enabling or disabling the operation of the keyboard. The disabled state is indicated by all 3 leds flashing.
