[CW] Vibroplex Use on Ships, Coastal Radio Stations & Aircraft

[Chris, G5VZ]

On 10/03/2022 03:47, David J. J. Ring, Jr. wrote:
> It was the USA radiotelegraphers operators who popularized using a 
> Vibroplex.  The UK General Post Office who ran the coast stations of 
> Ireland and the United Kingdom, actually prohibited all "speed keys" 
> but around the 1970s these regulations were relaxed and I'd hear 
> keyers and semi-automatic keys on from the UK commercial stations.

David,

As so often is the case with your posts, this one is absolutely 
fascinating and doubly so because there are so many first-hand 
memories.  Thanks you for sharing.

Although I have used - and now own - Marconi keys, I've found the German 
Junkers excellent and - after working the Junkers anniversary Special 
Event Station last year - I bought another in very fine condition.

I only came to use a bug during 2021 when I bought a Vibroplex Lightning 
Jewel Deluxe and later, a Vibroplex Lightning from the early 1950s which 
seems easier (Or more natural) to use than the newer, shiny chrome Jewel!

But, please tell me, David, what was a mechanical bug key like to use 
onboard ship?  I have all kinds of ideas about how the mechanism, not to 
mention the sending, would be affected by a big swell.  How do the 
perform on a rolling ship in rough seas?

Thanks and 73

Chris


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