[HCARC] Code Keys

[Dale Gaudier]

Gary:

Google is your friend.

Here's a place to start from: http://www.cwops.org/resources.html

You'll get a lot more if you Google "iambic keyer".

The "iambic keyer" is the electronics that creates the dots and dashes. It
is controlled by a "dual lever paddle/key", which is the mechanical device
you use to control the iambic keyer electronics. They come in all price
ranges. 

If you are just beginning, a simple straight key is the easiest to learn on.
They can be bought at about any hamfest. The J38 style key and its clones
are the classic "military" style keys and are usually relatively
inexpensive, especially those manufactured after WWII and sold as military
surplus. I bought one for $10 at a hamfest a number of years ago.

Happy hunting.

73,

Dale - K4DG

-----Original Message-----
From: Gary and Arlene Johnson [mailto:qltfnish at omniglobal.net] 
Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2012 9:58 PM
To: Dale Gaudier; HCARC at mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [HCARC] Code Keys

Dale,

One other question - what does "Iambic Keyer" mean??  I look at the pictures
but not having one in front of me to play with limits my ability to tell one
from another.  I will say that Code Keys are not an "INEXPENSIVE" item in
the shack.  WOW, some of the keyers must be plated in gold - I see one on
Ebay for a mere $2K.  That must be some special keyer.

Gary J
N5BAA
----- Original Message -----
From: "Dale Gaudier" <dale.gaudier at windstream.net>
To: <HCARC at mailman.qth.net>
Cc: "'Gary and Arlene Johnson'" <qltfnish at omniglobal.net>
Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2012 6:01 PM
Subject: RE: [HCARC] Code Keys


> Gary:
>
> This is a big topic, and everyone has their own opinion on what is the 
> best.
>
> A Google search on Morse code or CW keyers will bring up a lot of
> information for you to pore over.
>
> My personal experience:
>
> When I was Novice, I learned code using a straight key. A straight key is
> the classic "Morse code" key with the up and down action. I did pretty 
> well
> with this until I got my code speed up to around 15-20 wpm. When it became
> harder to send good code at higher speeds, I switched over to a dual 
> paddle
> key and electronic iambic keyer.
>
> I have in my collection a basic straight key, a Bencher BY-1 dual paddle
> key, a Kent dual paddle key, and two miniature dual paddle keys for
> field/QRP use. I have several iambic keyers I've built from kits, 
> including
> a TiCK, PK4, and WINKeyer USB. Both my rigs have built-in iambic keyers,
> too. The WINKeyer also lets me send code via my computer keyboard.
>
> In your research online, you'll also run into other types of keys, such as
> the so-called "sideswiper" (Vibroplex bug), single lever keys, etc. Each 
> has
> its fans and each has its drawbacks.
>
> If it were me, I'd buy a basic straight key to start while learning the
> code. If and when your code speed gets to the point where sending good 
> code
> becomes difficult, you can make the investment in a good dual paddle key.
> Your K3 has a built in iambic keyer and can also be used with a straight
> key. Read the K3 directions to see how to set up the radio so you can use
> the keyer for practice without being on the air.
>
> 73,
>
> Dale - K4DG
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Gary and Arlene Johnson [mailto:qltfnish at omniglobal.net]
> Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2012 5:04 PM
> To: hcarc at mailman.qth.net
> Subject: [HCARC] Code Keys
>
> OK, now some education for Newbies on Code Keys.  What kinds are there,
> what are the differences, which are easiest to learn to use??  I am going 
> to
> learn code if it kills me and one of the ways to input RTTY and PSK31
> message macros on the K3 is by using a Code Key.
>
> Gary J
> N5BAA
> HCARC Secretary 2013
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