[Elecraft] Getting Started With CW

[Matt VK2RQ]

Well, I use iambic keying (mode B, because I learned to use a paddle on an ICOM radio, which would only do mode B. Anyway, this was before I even knew there was such a thing as mode A and mode B).

The following article questions the value of iambic keying, makes for an interesting read:
http://www.morsex.com/pubs/iambicmyth.pdf

For the speeds I typically plod along at, around the 20wpm mark, the iambic keying works quite well, and feels nice.

73,
Matt VK2RQ

> On 2 Dec 2014, at 11:37 am, Ken <wa8jxm at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> Yes, I’ve looked up and understand the theory of Iambic keying but 1) it’s been weird to try and 2) I haven’t noticed any advantage for me.  Now maybe there is an advantage at higher speeds?   But when I’ve run above 30 wpm, I use a keyboard ;-)
> 
> 73, 
> Ken WA8JXM
> 
> 
>> On Dec 1, 2014, at 4:41 PM, G4GNX <G4GNX at theatreorgans.co.uk> wrote:
>> 
>> In short, yes you're doing it wrong. :-)
>> 
>> That said, if it works for you, who cares?
>> 
>> The correct way to use a twin paddle iambic keyer is to press on paddle first, fo9llowed by a squeeze action to hold both paddles on, but depending on what character you're trying to send.
>> 
>> For example. CQ (for a right handed keyer) would use the following sequence: Press right paddle and immediately squeeze both paddles without letting go the right paddle. Hold that squeeze until the first -.-. is sent, then let go for the inter-character space. To send the 'Q' press the right paddle and wait until the start of the second dash, then squeeze both paddles and immediately let go of the left hand paddle whilst continuing to briefly hold the right hand paddle until you're sure the entire --.- sequence has been sent, then let go the right paddle.ready to send whatever you want to come next.
>> 
>> I know this sounds long winded, but once you get used to it, it's very intuitive and very fast and accurate, as long as you practice it. Once you get proficient in that mode, you don't even think about it any more.
> 
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