Telegraphy Key

edko

edko

Registered
Registered
Joined
Jun 15, 2011
Messages
19
Just finished my first straight key based on the Amplidan. This was my second project since buying my mini mill and mini lathe. The learning curve was fierce.

Ed - ad7gr
NE Oregon

Key #002 9-6-2011 45 Away.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Nice job, do you know how to use it? I have not used Morse code for maybe 40 years.
Paul
 
Thanks Paul... Yes I do but I need to get better at it. I qualified for my Amateur Extra license at 21 WPM in 1984 during the final testing administered by the FCC in Colorado. I have been inactive for many years and making this key (and one other. a single lever paddle), is my incentive for getting my comprehension and speed up to a reasonable level. Right now I have about 75% comprehension at 15 WPM. I want to achieve at least a solid 80% at 18 WPM before I get back on the air.
Ed - ad7gr
 
I thought Telegraph was a lost art, I did not think anyone was using it anymore. Is it still required for radio license?
Paul
 
Paul... The FCC dropped the code requirement on Dec 15th 2006. Rumor had it that code would die off but it is more popular than ever now and is very much alive. I have a friend that routinely communicates at 40 WPM and up.

John... Neat photo of the N. Korean station... don't often get a chance to look behind the lines there.

Thanks Dave... The long, thin part of the base is painted steel and the shorter, thicker part is made of Avonite, a Solid Surface material used for counter tops.

Ed
 
Very nice key. I've been looking for a good set of plans to build one, or design my own. Haven't had time lately though.
 
When you get around to wanting to build one again go for it... time is a factor though.
 
My Dad still has his 2 keys. One is a practice unit, which he calls a bug and a high speed unit.

Beautiful work! I was curious about the material but you answered it in an earlier reply.
 
Oh, it'll be a wintertime project, one of several I'm sure. I have a Tempo One that I want to try it on.
 
I'm not sure quite what you mean by a "practice unit"... The only keys I could have called practice keys were the toys that were sold for practice with buzzers and lights on them. Usually bugs and paddles are hi speed keys... the paddle/keyer combination getting up to and far beyond the 40 WPM range. The straight keys, similar to the one I posted, are limited to around 25-30 wpm and lower. That being said someone will come and let me know they achieve faster speeds with one. I really don't know what the normal operator speed is on these keys. I'm just making an educated (wild) guess.

In response to the other post... Have fun with your Tempo One... It's neat to see the glow of the finals. :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top