Got Nova 1220, but no key :(

> > Hi, > I have this Data General Nova 1220 sitting here which seems in good

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