[Elecraft] CW Keying characteristics-computer vs Bencher

[Jim Brown]

On Sun, 12 Dec 2004 20:19:18 -0000, Ralph McClintock wrote:

>The computer generates an on-off. Writelog does not allow any adjustment of
>keying characteristics. The Bencher generates an open or ground. Why does
>the K2 recognize the Bencher, a mechanical switch, as soft and why does it
>recognize the computer as hard?

It does not. But the computer and the Bencher are doing two different things. The 
Bencher is running the K2's internal keyer. When you adjust the weight, you are 
adjusting that keyer. 

When the computer does the keying, it is acting as a simple straight key, and the 
keying program within the computer (in your case, WriteLog) establishes the weight. 

The K2 includes "smart logic" that acts as that switch to interpret keying on both dits 
and dahs as a straight key, so it bypasses the keyer.  You will notice, for example, 
that the speed in WriteLog is set by WriteLog, whereas the speed of the K2 keying 
using your paddle is set by the K2's knob. And you can easily set them differently. 

Jim Brown  K9YC