[GreenKeys] New to list and Teletype 43

[Gary Chatters]

On Mon, 31 May 2004, Greg Miller wrote:

> Hi everyone!
>   I'm new to the Greenkeys list.  I've always loved RTTY equipment and
> boatanchors, so I was glad when I found this list!
>

Welcome to the list, Greg.

>   Forgive me as I'm a little "green" when it comes to this type of
> equipment...  I have a Teletype model 43 that I'd like to learn more
> about.  It seems to work fine via the test and local mode.  I'm
> wondering how I can use it for RTTY work - I'm assuming I would just
> need a TNC to connect it to?  I know I could just use a PC for that, but
> what fun is that??  :)

I am not familiar with the model 43, but I think it is an ASCII machine.
Most on the air ham RTTY uses the 5-level Baudot code.  If your machine
has 4 rows of keys it is probably ASCII, if it has 3 rows then it would be
Baudot (or Murray or ITA-2).  If it is ACSII you'll need some way to
convert.

If you want to get it on the air a TNC won't help much.  You need a modem.
In ham RTTY we don't refer to "modem" though.  To monitor you need the
demodulator part, which is usually referred to as a TU (terminal unit).

>
>   Are there any good reference books on the subject of classic RTTY
> equipment I should read?

There were a few books publishlished on the topic of ham RTTY back in the
1960's that are small, but have a lot of good information about getting on
the air.  They describe the machines and circuits for getting on the air.

The first one I got and my favorite was Byron H Kretzman, W2JTP, "The New
RTTY Handbook".

Another useful one was Durward J. Tucker, W5VU, "RTTY From A to Z".  These
still show up at hamfests from time to time.

>
> PS - I'd like to find some of the older teletype equipment someday, but
> I figured the 43 would be a place to start.  Anyone have any teletype
> stuff they want to get rid of in the Western New York (Buffalo) area?

Acquiring Teletype and other mechanical teleprinter equipment (e.g,
Kleinschmidt) is something that takes persistence and some luck.  Keep an
eye out at hamfests, watch eBay, and read this list.  There was a nice
28KSR and 28ASR combination on eBay just a few days ago.  Initial and only
bid was $50 for both.  It would not have helped you, since it was in
Tacoma, Washington.  But maybe in a few months something will show up on
the east coast.  Also, ask around at radio clubs or people you talk to on
the air in your area.  You never know when someone has something they have
stored in there garage and want to get rid of.