Anyone collect/use telegraph keys?

[AL_as_needed]

As with most things, I seem to collect in reverse. I start with the new and work back from there.

Some years  ago I found a telegraph sounder, nothing fancy, just a demonstration piece that was left behind in a building fated for demo.
I made a simple telegraph key for it from hardware store odds and ends but have since decided to get more serious. Anyone here knowledgable in this area? I could use some advise on what equipment to look at to learn morse code on, maybe even get into ham radio one day.

Thanks!

[DavePEI]

I do, as part of the Museum's telegraph exhibit... See part way down: http://www.islandregister.com/phones/new.html

For some of the keys, Bugs, readers, etc. in the collection. Not all are shown, as I haven't updated that page much recently.

A sounder won't help much to learn Morse - the telegraphs used what is known as Landline or American Morse which is different from the Morse used for radio. The difference is that Landline uses only clicks, and CW is modulated CW, tones as opposed to clicks, and therefore there are differences between the morse used for landline.

You need an oscillator connected to a key to learn to send Ham Morse - and one of the best reception aids is to listen to the Morse practice transmissions from W1AW (American Radio Relay League). I don't know their current schedule, but they broadcast from very slow to very fast code for learners. At 5 wpm you pretty well have time to look it up on a chart.

Below an old photo of the Telegraph display - much more there now....

Dave, VY2AC

[TelePlay]

They have MP3 files to download, 5 to 40 WPM with text files to match.

http://www.arrl.org/code-practice-files

[AL_as_needed]

Thanks, I have several charts from when I first looked into learning, like anything it's all about practice. Any particular recommendations on an entry-level key?

[DavePEI]

Thanks, I have several charts from when I first looked into learning, like anything it's all about practice. Any particular recommendations on an entry-level key?

Practically any straight key should do. If you do have a Radio Shack in your area which is still open, you might find one there. Otherwise, you can buy them on eBay. For learning, you don;t need to spend much over $20 on a key that would be suitable. For now, stay away from paddles and bugs. Once one becomes proficient, you can switch to them....

[Mr. Bones]

Thanks, I have several charts from when I first looked into learning, like anything it's all about practice. Any particular recommendations on an entry-level key?

Al,

I just recently got a Morse code practice key that I consider an excellent entry-level choice:

MFJ-557

http://www.ebay.com/itm/131681993545

It needs a little tweaking to vertically align the contacts squarely, perhaps a bit of beveling so that the faces meet squarely, but has really great, out-of-the-box, bang-for-the-buck! I'm having great fun with it, at least!

I have been enjoying it greatly since receiving it.

I also have a recently acquired J-38 that is much smoother, and of greater quality, that I have not yet hooked to the MFJ oscillator...I'm certain that it will be much more rewarding, based upon the difference in feel between the two...

I'm sure that others will chime in with alternative choices.

Best of luck, and keep us posted as to what you get, and why. Life's a learning experience until you die.

Best regards!

[andre_janew]

Do people still use the telegraph to send messages?

[TelePlay]

Do people still use the telegraph to send messages?

Sure, lot of HAMS use CW to reach out. Military know Morse just in case they need it.