Kenwood TS-890S Operation Manual - Page 69

COMMUNICATING AIDS 5 Electronic Keyer This transceiver comes with a built-in electronic keyer that can be used simply by connecting a paddle to the PADDLE jack on the front panel. Depending on the settings, it can also be used as a bug key (semi-auto electronic keyer). • A straight key can also be connected to the PADDLE jack. Selecting the PADDLE Jack Behavior Select the device to be connected to the PADDLE jack. Configure the behavior in Menu [5-00] "Paddle Jack Configuration (Front)" Setting Value Straight Key/ Paddle (default)/ Paddle (Bug Key Mode) Selecting the KEY Jack Behavior For operation in the CW mode without using the built-in electronic keyer, connect the plug of a straight key, bug key, external electronic keyer or PC keyer to the "KEY" jack. The built-in electronic keyer can also be used by connecting a paddle to the "KEY" jack. Select the device to be connected to the "KEY" jack on the rear panel. Configure in Menu [5-01] "Key Jack Configuration (Rear)" Setting Value Straight Key (default)/ Paddle/ Paddle (Bug Key Mode) ● Connect a PC keyer or an external electronic keyer with a positive-polarity wire using a shield wire. ● Behavior when Paddle (Bug Key Mode) is selected • While dots are combined according to the usual keyer, dashes are keyed while the paddle is pressed. • The keying speed is variable, but the message memory function does not work. ● When both dot and dash are configured to ON at the same time, priority is given to dash. Operation Mode of the Electronic Keyer 2 operation modes of the built-in electronic keyer are available for selection (A or B). Configure in Menu [5-02] "Electronic Keyer Squeeze Mode" Setting Value Mode A/ Mode B (default) Mode A: When both paddles are open, code transmission ends after the code elements (dot or dash) are transmitted. Both dot and dash memory are not active. Mode B: When both paddles are open, code transmission ends after a dash (or dot) is transmitted following the dot (or dash) that is currently being transmitted. Both dot and dash memory are active. Reversing Dot and Dash It is possible to reverse dot and dash of the paddle without having to rewire the electronic keyer. Reversing the position for operating the paddle according to the operator's preferences or dominant hand helps to ease keying. Configure in Menu [5-03] "Dot and Dash Reversed Keying" Setting Value Off (default)/ On • Dot and dash is reversed when this function is set to "On". ● This setting applies to both the mic paddle mode and paddle that is connected to the PADDLE or KEY jack. Mic Paddle Mode The [UP] and [DOWN] keys of the microphone is used in place of the paddle for keying. Configure in Menu [5-04] "Paddle (Microphone Up/ Down Keys)" Setting Value Off (default)/ On • When this is "On", keying can be performed using the [UP] and [DOWN] keys of the microphone. ● Response will be slower in the mic paddle mode compared to the normal paddle operation. ● In the default setting, the [DOWN] key is assigned with dot and the [UP] key with dash. Adjusting the Keying Speed The keying speed of the electronic keyer can be adjusted freely. To ensure that CW is transmitted precisely, it is necessary to adjust the keying speed according to the skill level of the user. Also, it is recommended that the keying speed be as closely aligned as possible with the CW speed of the target station. Turn the [KEY] control to adjust the keying speed. The keying speed can be adjusted within the range of 4 to 60 [wpm] (20 to 300 characters/minute). • Turning the [KEY] control to the right increases the keying speed, while turning the control to the left slows it down. • The keying speed is displayed while the [KEY] control is being operated. • After operating the [KEY] control, the TX output power display shows the keying speed for a duration of 2 seconds. ● Only dots are supported in the bug key mode. 5-13