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eHam Forums => CW => Topic started by: W4OEQ on March 25, 2023, 05:20:11 PM

Title: CW oscillator
Post by: W4OEQ on March 25, 2023, 05:20:11 PM
I am an experienced CW operator and routinely use a stand alone paddle.  I need a code practice oscillator
that will work with the paddle.  Suggestions?  W4OEQ
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: W1VT on March 25, 2023, 05:42:24 PM
A code practice oscillator is typically connected to a straight key, and sounds off whenever the key is closed.

A paddle is typically connected to a keyer, which converts paddle input into dots and dashes.  K1EL has an inexpensive keyer kit that provides and audio output.
MFJ may have fully assembled keyers that meet your needs.  But, many keyers do not, as the radio transmitter provides the sidetone.
It may be possible to connect a code practice oscillator to be keyed by the output of a keyer.
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: W0CKI on March 25, 2023, 07:09:11 PM
Check out Pico keyer. It’s sold online kit or built up. It’s very small and cheap. You can find it at hamgagets. It does straight, iambic A&B plus ultramatic keying. You’ll need earphones to use it. Your paddle will plug into it.
MFJ has a selection also.
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: KH6AQ on March 25, 2023, 08:13:56 PM
The MFJ-401E is worth a look. I have the non-memory version and it's nice.

https://mfjenterprises.com/collections/cw/products/mfj-401e
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: K6SDW on March 26, 2023, 03:41:37 AM
If you like to build things, QRPGuys.com sells the KD1JV Code Trainer for $30. Easy kit to build and it works FB.

GL/73
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: W1VT on March 26, 2023, 04:49:35 AM
If there is a local club nearby you might ask around and see if someone has a kit they assembled that they would be willing to sell, if you don't want to assemble something yourself.
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: WA3SKN on March 26, 2023, 06:18:25 AM
All you need is an audio oscillator.  The paddle is simply a momentary contact switch.
You connect the "dit" side to go "beep".  You connect the "dah" side to go "beep".
73s.

-Mike.
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: K3TN on March 27, 2023, 04:39:14 AM
If you want a code practice osciallator that sends dahs and dits when you push the paddle one way or the other, just buy any new or used keyer that has a monitor function - most have a monitor speaker built in.

The Mortty  (https://hamprojects.info/mortty/)keyer does not have a speaker built in but has a jack to connect one - and is $35, and can be used for other things too.
Title: Re: CW oscillator
Post by: N8TGQ on March 27, 2023, 03:01:50 PM
 I second the pico keyer from hamgadgets. You can get a kit or prewired. It's a pretty amazing little gizmo!