Telegraph keys are electrical on-off switches used to send messages in Morse code and can spark when the circuit opens. This wireless telegraph key features a large disc on the knob to protect against the accidental shock. Until recently “wireless” meant radio, and early wireless equipment often used high voltages.
A standard wireless telegraph key. Stamped on base: "Boston Key Clapp-Eastham Co." and on lever: " Clapp-Eastham Co". All metal parts are of nickel-plated brass except for the steel pin that forms the central bearing. Mounted on an engraved formica base. Current is carried through the heavy conductors directly to the binding posts. Current rating of this unit is unknown, but Boston Keys were manufactured in ratings of 10, 20, 30, and 50 amperes. Reference: Clapp-Eastham bulletin FZ-1922, page 27.
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