[Elecraft] semiautomatic keys (bugs)

[Wallace, Andy]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Kevin B. G. Luxford [mailto:kevinluxford@optushome.com.au]
> 
> I have a small collection of straight keys, and  
> have been wondering about a bug and  what they are
> like to use. 

Here's a site which has many to see:

http://www.mtechnologies.com/

They have the Japanese GHD ones mentioned, as well as many others.
Vibroplex is still around, at www.vibroplex.com as well.

I have no idea what sort of suppliers you can find in Australia,
but I would expect there are some. 

The big trick to using a bug is adjusting it properly. Make
sure the contacts are clean, and adjust the dit spacing such
that they aren't clipped off and raspy. I am happy to hear ANYONE
willing to take the time to send CW in any form, so I'm not
an elitist about straight key/bug/keyer etc. Just get on the air!

The Vibroplex adjustment info sheet is very helpful:
http://www.vibroplex.com/BUGAdjust3.pdf

WB9LPU has designed some truly novel and beautiful bugs using 
magnets instead of springs -- see these here:

http://www.n9vv.com/WB9LPU/

(Note the K1 in a few shots.)

Good luck -- the advice of getting over to a friend's place and 
trying a bug out before buying is a good one. Many, many choices
out there. Since collectors have been buying them, the prices are
very high. You could also consider building one for yourself -- that
is something I'd like to do also.

Andy