Summary

Transmitting key used to input morse characters to a radio transmitter, manufactured by AWA. From its robust design, it was probably used with a spark transmitter.

The key interupts the supply to the transformer primary. When the key is pressed, the A.C. ciircuit is closed; a high voltage is induced until the spark gap resistance breaks down. Oscillations are then created in the closed oscillatory circuit and induced in the aerial circuit from whence they are radiated into space. As soon as the key is released, the primary circuit is broken and transmission ceases.

Physical Description

Polished wooden base with two brass terminals, pivoted brass arm with insulating knob. On the knob end is a normally open contact and on the other end a normally closed contact and a return spring. Underneath two thick copper wires connect the pivot and the bottom normally open contact to the terminals.

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