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iKey SLK-101-8L Backlit Rugged Keyboard With 8 Lighting Levels
Designed for industrial and military environments, the iKey SLK-101-8L Backlit Rugged Keyboard combines a full-sized layout with a reinforced polycarbonate enclosure rated NEMA 4X for protection against dust, water, and corrosive substances. Its integrated green LED backlighting features eight adjustable levels, including an optional night vision-compatible mode, supporting use in low-light and tactical conditions. The keyboard employs industrial silicone rubber keys with tactile feedback, rated for over 10 million cycles, ensuring reliable input in continuous-duty applications.
Meeting MIL-STD-461 standards, the SLK-101-8L resists electromagnetic interference, while MIL-STD-810 certification confirms its durability through shock and vibration testing. It operates effectively across temperatures ranging from -40_x000b_ C to +70_x000b_ C and can be stored between -40_x000b_ C and +90_x000b_ C. Powered via USB with a supply current of 210mA at 5V, this black keyboard accommodates Windows and Macintosh systems, making it a robust, field-ready solution for demanding industrial, aerospace, and defence deployments.
SLK-101-8L Features
- Eight levels of GREEN LED Backlighting
- Slim, Compact Design
- Meets MIL-STD-461E
- ABS Polycarbonate Frame
- Large Numeric Pad
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Product Type
Manufacturer
Certifications & Standards
Ruggedness
IP Rating
Mounting Format
Country Of Manufacture
United States
Backlight
Green
Case Material
ABS Polycarbonate
Certifications
NEMA 4X UL60950, FCC Part 15 Class B
Custom Options Products
Keyboard Layout,Keyboard Language,Cable Type,Cable Length,Interface,Backlight Colour,Custom Logo,Epoxy Coating,Conformal Coating,PU Coating,Matt Silicone Coating,Anti-Bacterial Coating
Dimensions
14.60" x 5.55" x 0.92" (w-h-d) 370.8mm x 141mm x 23.4mm
Function Keys
12 Keys
Housing Colour
Black
Humidity
100% Humidity Resistant
Backlight
Integrated Green Backlighting - NVIS Green Optional
Case Material
Robust Polycarbonate
Colour
Black
Compatibility
USB KEYBOARD: All Windows and Macintosh OS
Function Keys
12 Function Keys
Housing Colour
Black
Key Material
Industrial Silicone Rubber, Tactile with Mechanical Snap
Key Switch
ACTUATION FORCE: 7.05 oz +/- 1.06 oz (200g +/- 30g)
Lifespan
10 Million Cycles +
No. Of Keys
101
Operating Force
ACTUATION FORCE: 7.05 oz +/- 1.06 oz (200g +/- 30g)
Power
USB: 210mA@5V (from CPU port)
Product Weight
2.00 lbs +/- 0.10 lbs (0.91 kg +/- 0.05 kg)
Shock
3x11 ms pulses of 50g on each of 3 axis
Supply Current
210mA@5V
Supply Voltage
5 Volts
Switch Force
7.05 oz +/- 1.06 oz (200g +/- 30g)
Switch / Key Travel
0.055 in. (1.4mm)
Temperature Range
STORAGE: -40C to +90C (-40F to +194F) OPERATING: -40C to +70C (-40F to +158F)
Vibration
POWER SPECTRAL DENSITY: 0.04g/Hz FREQUENCY RANGE: 20Hz - 2 kHz DURATION OF TEST PER AXIS: 3 hours
Operating Temperature
OPERATING: -40C to +70C (-40F to +158F)
Shock
3x11 ms pulses of 50g on each of 3 axis
Storage Temperature
STORAGE: -40C to +90C (-40F to +194F)
Temperature Rating
STORAGE: -40C to +90C (-40F to +194F) OPERATING: -40C to +70C (-40F to +158F)
The iKey SLK-101-8L Backlit Rugged Keyboard With 8 Lighting Levels is designed and engineered for use in demanding environments where reliability, durability are essential. The SLK-101-8L supports a wide range of industries and operational applications.
Common deployment industries include: Aerospace, Defence And Military, Emergency Services, Energy and Utilities, Industrial Manufacturing, Marine And Offshore, Rail And Transport, Security And Surveillance.
Across these sectors, the SLK-101-8L is typically used in applications such as Field Data Capture And Reporting, Health, Safety, And Compliance Inspections, Industrial HMI And Machine Interfacing, SCADA And Control-Room Access, Secure Communications And Command-And-Control.
These examples demonstrate the versatility of the SLK-101-8L across both industry sectors and real-world operational use cases. Its suitability extends well beyond the scenarios listed above, making it a flexible solution for a broad range of requirements.
For further information, or to assess whether the SLK-101-8L is appropriate for your specific application, please contact us.
The iKey SLK-101-8L Backlit Rugged Keyboard With 8 Lighting Levels comes with a 3 Years Manufacturers Limited Warranty + Option To Extend against defects in workmanship and materials, effective from the date of shipment (unless otherwise agreed in writing).
To receive service under this warranty, the eligible product, iKey SLK-101-8L Backlit Rugged Keyboard With 8 Lighting Levels, must be presented to RUGGED in the United Kingdom.
For more information about the iKey SLK-101-8L Backlit Rugged Keyboard With 8 Lighting Levels or to arrange repairs and services not covered by the warranty, please visit the warranty section on our website.
Do you need further details about the iKey SLK-101-8L Backlit Rugged Keyboard With 8 Lighting Levels, or would you like to discuss a customised solution or demonstration?
At RUGGED, we recognise that every project has its own unique demands. If you have any questions about the iKey SLK-101-8L or need a custom Rugged Keyboard solution designed specifically for you, our team of technical experts are ready to assist you.
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Having trouble finding what you're looking for?
Selecting the correct solution for your specific application and operating environment requires careful consideration.
At Rugged, our engineering and product specialists can advise on specifications, environmental suitability, mounting requirements, connectivity, and lifecycle planning to ensure the right fit for your deployment.
With extensive industry experience and a focus on reliability and performance, we help you select a solution aligned with your operational requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
RUGGED offers free technical support for the lifetime of products you purchase. This includes help with setup, troubleshooting, and integration. Support is available online or directly from the technical team
Rugged Limited’s rugged keyboards are engineered with long lifecycle availability as a core consideration, making them a reliable choice for industrial and challenging settings. This focus on longevity means that the keyboards are built to withstand continuous use and harsh conditions, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
The design principles behind these rugged keyboards prioritise durability and sustained performance. By utilising robust materials and manufacturing processes, Rugged Limited ensures that their keyboards offer extended operational lifespans, providing consistent functionality over many years of service. This commitment to long-term availability is a significant advantage for businesses seeking dependable input solutions.
Rugged Limited specialises in providing industrial peripherals built to withstand harsh conditions, including marine settings. Our rugged keyboards are engineered with features like IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, which are crucial for protecting against water and other liquids commonly found in marine applications. This ensures that the keyboard can endure exposure to moisture, salt spray, and even submersion, depending on the specific IP rating.
Furthermore, the materials used in our rugged keyboard manufacturing are selected for their durability and resistance to corrosion, which is a significant factor in saltwater environments. This robust construction guarantees reliable operation and a long lifespan, reducing downtime and maintenance in challenging marine conditions.
Rugged keyboards are engineered for environments where standard keyboards would quickly fail. Unlike typical office keyboards, a rugged keyboard offers enhanced durability and protection against elements such as dust, dirt, liquids, and extreme temperatures. They feature robust construction, often incorporating sealed casings and industrial-grade components to ensure reliable performance in demanding conditions.
Key differences include:
- Durability: Rugged keyboards are designed to endure significant impact, vibration, and continuous use in challenging settings.
- Environmental Protection: They typically boast high Ingress Protection (IP) ratings, indicating resistance to water and dust—essential for industrial, marine, or outdoor applications.
- Material and Build: Constructed from rugged materials like stainless steel or silicone, they offer longevity that standard plastic keyboards cannot match.
- Functionality: Many rugged keyboards include features such as integrated pointing devices (e.g., trackballs or touchpads), backlighting for low-light conditions, and specialised key layouts for specific industrial tasks.
Rugged Limited provides a range of rugged keyboard solutions tailored for various harsh environments, ensuring sustained operation where standard peripherals would falter.
An Ingress Protection (IP) rating is a critical standard for rugged keyboards, specifying the degree of protection provided against dust, dirt, and water. This two-digit code is internationally recognised and helps users understand how well a device can withstand environmental factors.
The first digit in an IP rating signifies protection against solid objects, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dust-tight). A higher number here means greater resistance to particles entering the device.
The second digit indicates protection against liquids, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 9 (withstanding high-pressure, high-temperature jet sprays). This is particularly important for a rugged keyboard that might be exposed to spills, rain, or even submersion. Rugged Limited offers a range of peripherals engineered to meet these demanding standards.
Rugged Limited provides a range of rugged keyboards specifically engineered to meet the demanding requirements of military applications. These keyboards are designed to withstand extreme temperatures, vibrations, shocks, and exposure to dust and liquids, making them ideal for deployment in challenging operational environments.
Our rugged keyboards feature robust casings, often manufactured from stainless steel or aluminum, and incorporate sealed keypads to prevent ingress of contaminants. Many models also include features like adjustable backlighting for use in varying light conditions, and some are night vision compatible, which is crucial for covert operations. The design prioritises reliability and consistent performance, ensuring that critical data entry functions remain operational when they are needed most.
Furthermore, the durability of a rugged keyboard from Rugged Limited ensures a longer product lifespan and reduced maintenance, offering a cost-effective solution for military organisations seeking dependable input devices.
Rugged keyboards are indeed typically more expensive than standard consumer-grade keyboards. This price difference stems from several key factors related to their construction and intended use. Unlike standard keyboards, a rugged keyboard is engineered to withstand harsh environments and demanding conditions, meaning they are built with higher-grade materials and often feature specialised sealing against dust, liquids, and extreme temperatures.
For instance, many rugged keyboards incorporate features like silicone membranes, stainless steel casings, or industrial-grade plastics to ensure longevity and consistent performance where a regular keyboard would quickly fail. The design and manufacturing processes for these durable peripherals are more intricate, involving rigorous testing to meet stringent industrial and military standards. This commitment to resilience and reliability contributes significantly to the overall cost, making a rugged keyboard a worthwhile investment for operational continuity in challenging settings.
Yes, rugged keyboards are designed with hygiene and durability in mind, making them remarkably easy to clean. Many models are constructed with surfaces that are sealed to prevent the ingress of liquids, dust, and contaminants. This often includes features like medical-grade silicone keypads that can be easily wiped down or even washed without damaging the internal components.
This design consideration is particularly beneficial in harsh environments or settings that require stringent cleanliness. The robust sealing means that spills, dirt, and debris can be quickly and effectively removed, helping to maintain a hygienic workspace and prolonging the life of the device. For a comprehensive selection of these durable and easy-to-maintain input solutions, explore our rugged keyboard range.
Rugged Limited understands the importance of versatility in industrial and demanding environments. That’s why our range of rugged keyboards is designed to accommodate global users by supporting multiple language layouts. This means that whether you require a keyboard with a UK, US, German, French, or another specific language layout, Rugged Limited can provide a solution tailored to your operational requirements.
This adaptability in language options ensures that users worldwide can operate our durable keyboards efficiently and comfortably, without compromising on the ruggedness and reliability that our products are known for. When sourcing a rugged keyboard, it’s important to specify your language layout needs to ensure the best fit for your application.









