[CW] QSP from AD0WE Chris - CW VOX

[D.J.J. Ring, Jr.]

Copied from Kurt Zoglmann's Facebook page:



Kevin (KB9RLW) has innovated to make CW more accessible and
convenient: the CWvox! This device, is a unique blend of technology
and creativity that allows

keying by voice! It's designed for Morse Code operators who may find
traditional keying methods challenging for various reasons, including
physical limitations.



Concept and Design:

The CWvox is an ingenious solution that leverages the ability of Morse
Code operators to vocalize Morse Code using "da" for dashes and "dit"
for dots.

This practice isn't just a novelty; it's a skill that, when done
correctly, mirrors the proper length ratio of dashes and dots in Morse
Code. Recognizing

this, Kevin posed the question: Why not convert this spoken Morse Code
into actual keying signals for radio transmission?

Initially, the project embarked on an analog path, employing
transistors, resistors, and capacitors. However, the challenge arose
with the natural tail-off

in the human voice when saying "da." This tail-off didn't abruptly
stop as required in clean Morse Code transmission, leading to issues
in accurately keying

the radio.



Digital Solution and Schematic Overview:

The solution? Going digital with an Arduino Nano, a small yet powerful
microcontroller board. This shift dramatically simplified the design
and improved

the accuracy of the device. The final schematic, which is not overly
complex, revolves around the Arduino Nano and a handful of additional
components:

• Microphone Input: Utilizes a condenser microphone, commonly found in
headsets, requiring a power supply provided by the CWvox.

• Amplifier Stage: Amplifies the small signals from the microphone to
a level that the Arduino can detect.

• Signal Processing: Involves DC blocking capacitors and a diode to
create a positive waveform for the Arduino to sense.

• Sensitivity Adjustment: Achieved through a linear potentiometer,
allowing users to set the threshold for audio detection.

• Keying Circuit: A simple transistor switch acts as the keying
mechanism, compatible with most modern solid-state radios. For older
tube-type radios,

a reed relay is suggested.

• RF Bypass and Transient Protection: Essential components to protect
the circuit from radio frequency interference and transient spikes.

Operation and Application:

In practice, the CWvox is remarkably user-friendly. It features a
microphone input, keying output, power switch, an LED indicator for
power and keying,

and an enable switch to prevent accidental radio keying. The
sensitivity of the device can be adjusted to accommodate different
speaking volumes and distances

from the microphone. The creator demonstrated its effectiveness
through successful on-air contacts, highlighting its practicality.

Significance and Potential Impact:

The CWvox isn't just a technical achievement; it's a potential
game-changer for Morse Code operators who face challenges with
traditional keying methods.

Whether due to injury, age-related issues, or preference, this device
offers an alternative way to participate in Morse Code communication.

Resources:

The CWvox stands as a remarkable blend of innovation and practicality,
providing an alternative method for sending Morse Code by voice. For
those interested

in building their own CWvox, resources like schematics and Arduino
software are available on Kevin's Blog —

http://kb9rlw.blogspot.com/2023/01/cwvox-voice-keyer-for-morse-c.html

. This device is more than just a tool; it's a testament to the
enduring adaptability and evolution of Morse Code in the modern era.
Please check out

Kevin's 22-minute YouTube —

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpDYJO81-LE

==

73 de AD0WE dit dit



73,

Chris