[Elecraft] Vibroplex - seen on ABC Pan Am (OT)

[Mike Morrow]

Lee wrote:

> I have just signed up to this list, so I have not seen this whole
> thread, but I have to say that I am disapointed with what I am
> hearing.  I agree that hams should take pride in their sending, but I
> also believe that hams should encourage new hams by helping them out,
> not by shunning them just because their code is sloppy.

Relax, Lee.  Relax.

This is a classic case of one's needing to read all of the thread
before getting bent out of shape.  The thread discussed in the main
the difficulties and "distinctive" Morse telegraphy that sometimes results
from use of a mechanical bug, like the classic Vibroplex keys.  The
"interesting" Morse styles that may result from such key use is often
attributed to those having long and sometimes professional experience
as a Morse operator.  This is a topic that has been discussed by operators
ever since bugs appeared more than 100 years ago (see the reference
in one post to a **1964** QST article).  New operators were not once,
even in passing, a part or subject of this discussion.

The list archives may always be reviewed in order to properly analyze
the content of a thread.  See http://mailman.qth.net/pipermail/elecraft .

> I know I wasn't perfect when I first put my hand to the key and I
> would bet that most of you were not either. I wonder how many abandoned
> the hobby because nobody would answer their CQ. 

Back in the days when Morse testing was required, most classes held by
ham clubs tried to get students ready **only** to pass the five wpm
copy test.  These classes invariably turned out hams who had no capability
to send at any speed Morse that could be deciphered.  The only real
corrective measure required student work with an "Elmer" with some
patience.  Sending **good** Morse is always more difficult than reading
good Morse.

> Lee
> Currently Expired (was N4RKI)

Welcome back, Lee.  73,

Mike / KK5F