Frequently Asked Questions:

Here are some common questions asked about PREH:

An error beep occurs every time I press a key. Also, nothing is sent to the computer. What do I do?

When the keyboard is switched off in a programming sequence (e.g. While the online programming mode is active) or through heard EMI's or ESD's the content of the internal EEPROM will be changed without updating the EEPROM checksum. When the checksum check fails the keyboards will behave as described above. The following key combinations, when held down during and through power-up, will reset the keyboard interface and update the checksum:

MWX and MC: A01 + B01 =>
AT A01 + C01 =>
XT A01 + D01 =>
RS232 (9600, 0, 8, 1) PC-POS: Left Ctrl + Left Shift=>
AT Left Ctrl + Caps Lock=> XT Left Ctrl + Tab=>
RS232 (9600, 0, 8, 1)

The key combinations will not repair a damaged key assignment, which could be the reason for the checksum change.

To ``repair `` the key assignment it is necessary to download the MWX file with your actual key table. We recommended that you save your changes to the key table as an MWX file.

I have lost my keyboard program on my PC-POS / MC ALPHA / MWX Jr. What do I do?

The above mentioned keyboards have a factor default key table reset. This factory key table will reprogram the enter ``QWERTY" section of the MC ALPHA, and MWX Jr. In the PC-POS case ``QWERTY", num. Pad, and function key sections will be reprogrammed.

The following key combinations, when held down during and through power-up, will program the default factory key table:

PC-POS, MC ALPHA, and MWX Jr.:
Left Alt + Right Alt + Right Ctrl => Factory default key table

The key assignments will over write any and all existing key assignment present in the keyboard memory.

What programming options exist with PREH's line of key pads?

PREH has two series of key pads, NW series and MTF series. The NW is currently non field programmable. Rather it is programmed by PREH, to customer specifications. The MTF series can be programmed by the end user in the normal manner in which PRHE POS keyboards are programmed. However, the customer must purchase MWX electronics ( P/N: 90405-045/0001), and a daisy chain connector.

How do I permanently affix my FTF keyboard to an panel or surface?

The back of the FTF keyboards peal off ( like a sticker ) leaving a spongy sticky surface. To mount peal of the back then stick to surface. Note: This is a permanent, and strong adhesive removing the keyboard may result in damage to the FTF keyboard.

Can I program my POS keyboard to always output capital letters?

Yes; Under the Assignment line, in the PREH Programmer, type in the capital letter you want to program (e.g. A, B, C, etc.. not a, b, c, etc..). Then choose Normal level under Level Definition. For further programming instruction read the pp4.1.0 read me file in the 4.1.0 programmer disk.

How do I hook up my rows and columns keyboard for programming?

The programming configuration schema for POS matrix type keyboards ( rows and coulombs ) is:

1. Locate the 8 pin min din female connection in the back of the PREH keyboard.
2. Connect the 8 pin mini din male end of keyboard cable to the above found port.
3. Locate a 5 pin din, or 8 pin min din female port on the right hand side of PREH keyboard.
4. Connect a standard keyboard to this right side port.
5. Connect the PREH keyboard to the PC.
6. Start PREH Programmer.

How can I program a standard key such as ``ESC", or ``SHIFT"?

1. Put PREH Programmer under string mode.
2. Go to desired programming key location.
3. In the assignment field type within curly brackets ``ESC", or ``SHIFT" ( e.g. {ESC}, or {SHIFT}).
4. Under Level Definition choose option Standard key.
5. Kit the return key to store newly modified program.

Note: Please review the PREH Programmer help file for a full list of ``standard keys", and macros.

What is the difference between NORMAL LEVEL, and STANDARD LEVEL programming level's?

To programming strings / data as the face value of a key use the Normal Level. Example: If you just want capital ``A" to appear any time the programmed key is depressed. Program the ``A" under Normal Level. Now, regardless of what other key is depressed ( SHIFT, or CAPS) ``A" will still be displayed on the screen.
Note: This assumes SHIFT, and CAPS level have not been programmed.

To program traditional 101 keyboard keys us the Standard level. Example: If a standard ``a" is desired .. Program the ``a" under Standard Level.

Now, if Shift is depressed while the ``a" programmed key is depressed capital ``A" will appear. Please read the pp4.1.0 read me file found in the Preh 4.1.0 Programmer for further programming instruction.

How can I change the function of the key yet retain the key's normal function?

To create a key that has more than one purpose a new level with the desired function must be designed. You can use Shift, Alt, Ctrl, Num Lock, Caps Lock, or Scroll Lock to help define a new level. Example:

If the key is defined as the ``A key", but you also need it to display ``hello" on occasion then you must do the following:

1. On level 1 of 2, program the key as a standard key for ``A".
2. On level 2 of 2, program the key to output ``hello" only while Shift is pressed. This is done by programming Shift Active in the level 2 of 2.

How can I operate the mouse of my FTF-122 Keyboard under Windows NT?

Only FTF-122 Keyboard Part Number 90312-004/0001 can be operated under Windows NT, and the following are the instructions to install the driver:

1. Download NT.exe
2. If you want to connect the FTF122 to COM 1 you must copy the file sergen1.sys into the directory C:\winnt\system32\drivers.
3. If you want to connect the FTF122 to COM 2 you must copy the file sergen2.sys into the directory C:\winnt\system32\drivers.
4. Rename the file sermouse.sys to serial.org.
5. Rename the file sergenX.sys to sermouse .sys
6. Double-click the control panel - mouse.
7. Select serial mouse.
8. Unplug the PS/2 mouse.
9. Plug in the FTF122.
10. Restart your computer.

All necessary files are placed in the Software Downloads sections of this Web site.
Note: After this procedure your FTF-122 mouse should work. However, a conflict error will be present regarding the free serial interface (I/O-overlapping).