Frequently Asked Questions

My Ameco K-4 key has a thing like a switch on it. It’s a thin metal piece with a small plastic knob and it can be rotated in underneath a flange on the lower contact. What exactly is it for?

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I do not understand the wire conenctions located under the base that face in opposite directions? What is the light green plastic loop for? Also,the slip-on connections are not the most convenient. Where do I get replacement slip-on connections (more…)

That’s a very good question because there are two contradictory schools of thought, and you are likely to encounter both of them before you ever send a dit. (more…)

American and European (or British) “styles” are techniques for sending Morse code with a telegraph key, but they can also refer to the design of the key. (more…)

Using the GD/GN507 as an example, the “mechanical” or “GN” version of the paddle has two pairs of metal contacts which are “closed” by moving the levers. They’re like the contacts on a straight key or most any other paddle or bug. The closing of the contacts also stops the motion of the lever, providing a crisp tactile feedback to the operator. (more…)

I get asked that question  surprisingly often in relation to the “high end” paddles, and while it is ultimately a question that you have to answer for yourself, I’ve come up with some ideas that might help you make up your mind. (more…)