[GreenKeys] Teleprinter demo project

[Ken Schwieker]

I think that there is a need for a small stand alone device that will 
store in memory multiple teletype messages and would output one or a 
string to a teleprinter when prompted to do so via the push of a 
switch. For several reasons I don't want to use a laptop, a paper 
tape reader, etc or any external data lines. Just connect the device 
to AC and the teleprinter and it would be ready to go. A small 
microprocessor or a pic device on a small circuit board would seem to 
be ideal if capabilities were sufficient including enough memory to 
hold quite a few messages.

Our museum here has an AP model 15 machine just begging to come back 
to life. The museum personnel are non technical so operation will 
need to be pretty basic. It would need to be a connect and forget 
type of system other than the occasional paper or ribbon  change and 
have very low maintenance requirements.  I think it would be nice if 
a visitor could push a "demo" push button that would start up the 
teleprinter, print out at least one complete AP/UPI type message and 
then turn off the machine. Most any vintage messages would be 
appropriate but any pertaining to significant events would probably 
generate more interest. Also a short history of teleprinters or a 
message pertaining to the museum could be printed out.

Idea would be to expose as many people as possible to teleprinter 
operation as I am sure many have never seen one of these machines 
running. I will be building and donating this to our local museum so 
a reasonable cost is somewhat of a consideration. If this gets off 
the ground maybe other greenkeyers would want to introduce the demo 
project into their local museum or other demonstration possibilities.

A question I have is if there is some unit already available that 
could be used as is in this project with the addition a power supply, etc.

Anyway, I am hoping that some of you out there that are more 
knowledgeable about the design of this type of device would have some 
ideas on this or for that matter could/would assist in the design and 
programming of one or even produce a kit as a project available to the group.

Ken S