[CW] Re: Modes

[David J. Ring Jr - N1EA]

Pedro,

One thing that sending with a hand key does is lets you feel the rhythm of
morse code.  You have to admit that you do feel the cadence of the code.

If you get glass arm from sending with a key, perhaps you should invest in a
European type key which is positioned at the edge of the operating table and
the arm hangs down and then bends at the elbow and this lower part of the
arm sends - not the wrist.

Many operators used this type of key for 8 hours or more - sending traffic
to ships.  Portishead Radio (GKA) used this type of key for many years.

It has been said that the reason that semi-automatic sending did NOT develop
overseas is because of the sending style.

The United States is peculiar in its method of sending - every other country
(Canada is 50% USA type sending, 50% British (European) type sending!) sends
the European way.

Morse Express has several long lever keys.

However, don't give up!  The late Frank Estrada (the traffic king at Slidell
Radio / WNU) used an American style key for his eight hours - and beat all
the keyer guys and keyboard guys in traffic totals.  He was sure and steady.

73

David Ring