My 2 cents worth:
Start with a straight key.
All cw ops should be able to send with a straight key.
That way, even in an emergency, you can tap a couple of wires together, etc.
Skip the semi automatic bug. It will only delay you from becoming a good
operator with the electronic keyer.
You can always go back and play with it, later in life.
Next, choose your paddle.
Take time at a hamfest; if you can, visit one where vibroplex is exhibiting
(not to promote their brand, but they have all types of keys in their
program, so you can try them all). Otherwise, just try to find a good ham
shop that has a variety.
Determine if you like the feel of a single paddle or a dual paddle better.
Determine if you like one handle (or plastic tip) on your paddle, or two.
Two paddles tips can still be just one actual arm.
Compare that to the two-arm version (squeeze keying)
This is the important decision.
Finally, choose type A or B, based on the paddle you are comfortable with.
I can key with anything.
I don't care if it has one or two handles, memories, self-completing,
whatever.
Heck, I don't even notice a difference.
Within seconds my brain seems to adjust to whatever is on the table.
I just use what's there when I go to the multi operator contests.
I'm not bragging, I want to make a point here:
I learned on the single paddle (single handle/arm).
That was all they had in the 60s when I learned to use it.
I've noticed that people who learned with the newer features, many of whom
are much better operators than me, are unable to work with the older
technology. They can't key right with out dot memory or some other feature.
My conclusion: if you learn to key using the single paddle (as opposed to
squeeze keying), you will be able to use anything.
If you start out with squeeze keying, you will be spoiled for life.
It's a great way to key, maybe the best, but you are nailed to that
technology!
Your mileage may vary.....
73
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: tentec-bounces@contesting.com [mailto:tentec-bounces@contesting.com]
On Behalf Of Richards
Sent: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 1:35 AM
To: atrampler@att.net; Discussion of Ten-Tec Equipment
Subject: Re: [TenTec] wither CW
Serious Question Dept.
_______________________
What should a new operator start out with? Some adamantly recommend a
straight key (e.g. our friend Dan Romanchick KB6NU) and others
recommend a paddle and keyer (as do many in the FISTS and other groups.)
Each camp has its highly qualified and well-intentioned advocates.
So... What's a mother to do? How does one choose... and if he elects
to work the paddle-keyer combo, then how does he elect A or B style? I
cannot find any sort of consensus, and it seems to be a very personal
decision - but (as in the case of A vs B keyer styles) one does not
really know what he will like until he know how to do one or the
other... it is a cart before the horse proposition in a way.
Single paddle.... double paddle.... straight key... sideswiper... bug...
iambic... A... B... even C... Sheesh! I suppose it is analogous
to selecting a word processor - whatever you learned first seems to be
your favorite. But how to know in advance which to choose?
Oh... and I like the saying about gentlemen and bagpipes.... ;-)
===================== James -K8JHR =========================
On 5/25/2010 11:54 PM, Art Trampler wrote:
> "A gentleman is someone who knows how to play the bagpipes, but doesn't."
more often than not work people who do not
> deserve a Q5 report because they cannot accurately send, yet think there
is
> something noble or pure about using the bug or straight key.
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