Worst Accessory Ever (for Atari 400)

[+David_P]

With a tag line like that,I had to check out this auction:

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Atari-400-Keyboard-Overlay-Perhaps-the-worst-accessory-ever-Please-read-/161241192194?pt=US_Vintage_Computing_Parts_Accessories&hash=item258ab95702

[doctorclu]

Here is what the auction had (putting this here for years later when it has left ebay)

 

"I'm putting this auction up as a bit of a lark. But maybe it will catch your fancy.

This keyboard overlay is for the ATARI 400 computer with the flat-styled keyboard. Supposedly, this accessory would simulate a "real" keyboard when overlaid atop the flat-styled keyboard. It doesn't. It sucks. It actually makes the keyboard more difficult to use and less responsive. But back in 1979 (or so), this is all I wanted for my birthday, and my parents bought it for me. I didn't have the heart to tell them that it stunk, and I recall that it took about 4 months for the manufacturer to ship it to me, and only after repeated calls and letters from my mom. What a hassle. I also recall that it cost $20, and that was a lot back in 1979 -- in fact, in 2014 dollars adjusted for inflation, it would be over $65!

BUT -- it does appear to be rare. I assume that anyone who bought it threw it out. But not me!

And now you can own it! Lucky you!

If you decide to purchase this item, you'll not only get the item, but also a picture of me and my mom with the item, and a picture of me and mom at dinner that I will pay for with the proceeds from this auction. Now that's something you don't find every day on eBay!

Check out my other computer books and ATARI cartridges, peripherals, and systems on auction.

Combined shipping and handling may be available based on what you're looking to buy. With the odd shapes and weights of these items, I really can't put together a sensible "one-size-fits-all" shipping and handling discount rule. So, if you want to buy more than one of my computer books and ATARI cartridges, peripherals, and systems, send me an eBay message with what you'd like and your ZIP code, and I'll get back to you with a discounted shipping and handling quote."

 

 

[doctorclu]

But yeh, between the membrane keyboard and those swishy keys I bet the add-on was crap.

[SoulBlazer]

Well, kudos for the seller being honest.