Semi-automatic Telegraph Key

Description (Brief):

Telegraph keys are electrical on-off switches used to send messages in Morse code. A semi-automatic telegraph key like this one allows an operator to send land-line and wireless (radio) telegraph messages at a much faster rate than with an ordinary key. The key automatically produces rapid morse code dots by using a weighted pendulum to quickly make and break contact in the electrical circuit. The operator still makes the dashes manually.

Maker: Western Union Corporation

Location: Currently not on view

See more items in: Work and Industry: Electricity, Telegraph Keys, Communications

Exhibition:

Exhibition Location:

Credit Line: from Western Union Corporation

Data Source: National Museum of American History

Id Number: EM.331978Accession Number: 294351Collector/Donor Number: 100-061Catalog Number: 331978

Object Name: bugsemi-automatic keysending keytelegraph key

Physical Description: metal (overall material)plastic (overall material)Measurements: overall: 3 1/2 in x 3 1/2 in x 7 3/4 in; 8.89 cm x 8.89 cm x 19.685 cm

Guid: http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a7-1fa4-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa

Record Id: nmah_891129

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