Summary
"Camelback" telegraph key, so-called because of its distinctive curved shape. The key was used for the transmission of signals in the Morse electric telegraph system.
To transmit signals the operator depressed a pivoted metal lever (the key) to complete an electric circuit and transmit current along the telegraph line. Releasing the key broke the circuit and cut off the current. Letters and numbers were represented by a sequence of short and long current pulses, transmitted according to a defined code. The most widely used code was generally known as "Morse code".
At the receiving end the sequence of current pulses could be displayed as long and short marks on a paper tape, or could be interpreted by an operator listening to the sounds made by the receiving instrument.
Physical Description
Brass base. Curved brass pivoted key, fitted with ebonite knob. Pivoted circuit closing lever with ebonite knob attached to base.
More Information
-
Collection Names
-
Collecting Areas
-
Acquisition Information
Donation from (Estate of) Mr John J. Thompson, 27 Apr 1915
-
Collector
Mr John J. Thompson, 12 Rose Street, Armadale, Greater Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 27 Apr 1915
-
Inscriptions
Base engraved below key pivot: "206"
-
Classification
-
Category
-
Discipline
-
Type of item
-
Overall Dimensions
140 mm (Length), 104 mm (Width), 38 mm (Height)
-
Keywords
