Got Nova 1220, but no key :(

[George Wiegand]

I had several of these keys that I sold with Novas to Scott Mcintyre in
Mich. several years ago. You  might try him at computers at scottMcintyre.com
1-800-489-7177 or 248-299-5100

----- Original Message -----
From: "Tony Duell" <ard at p850ug1.demon.co.uk>
To: <cctalk at classiccmp.org>
Sent: Sunday, October 05, 2008 3:32 PM
Subject: Re: Got Nova 1220, but no key :(


> >
> > Hi,
> > I have this Data General Nova 1220 sitting here which seems in good
shape.
> >
> > But I don't have the front panel key, which is in the "lock" position.
> >
> > The PDP11 keys I have do not work :(
> >
> > Any hint ?
>
> I assume that this is a tubular lock like a PDP11 lock.
>
> Yo ucan normally dismantle the front panel of such a minicomputer even
> when 'locked' and remove the lock itself. You then have several options :
>
> 1) Buy a new lock (and keys) of the same design and fit that. These locks
> were almost certainly standard parts at the time.
>
> 2) Take it to a (good) locksmith with a 'tubular lock pick'. He can then
> pick the lock, and from the postiion of the sliders on said tubular lock
> pick cna then cut a replacement key.
>
> 3) DIsmantle the lock. If it's like most of these tubular locks, there's a
> pin in one side that you have to drill out. I seem to remember you then
> hold it vertically, front face upwards, and slide the outer shell off.
> Keep the pins in the right sequence. You can now
>
> a) From the lengths of said pinds, cut a new key to fit that lock
>
> b) Fit a new set of pins to make a given tubular key fit it (for example
> your XX2247 PDP11 key)
>
> c) Assemble it with no pins (or springs) so that any tubular key will
> work it.
>
> -tony