Semi-automatic Telegraph Key
Semi-automatic Telegraph Key
Usage conditions apply
- Description (Brief)
- This semi-automatic telegraph key was designed by William G. Fluharty around 1915. Fluharty worked for Western Union whose operators were prime users for these semi-automatic keys.
- Telegraph keys are electrical on-off switches used to send messages in Morse code. A semi-automatic telegraph key allows an operator to send messages at a much faster rate than with an ordinary key. The key automatically produces rapid morse code dots by using a spring or weighted pendulum to quickly make and break contact in the electrical circuit. The operator still makes the dashes manually.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Object Name
- bug
- semi-automatic key
- telegraph key
- date made
- ca 1915
- maker
- Fluharty, William G.
- Physical Description
- metal (overall material)
- plastic (overall material)
- cloth (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 5 1/2 in x 3 1/2 in x 8 3/4 in; 13.97 cm x 8.89 cm x 22.225 cm
- ID Number
- EM.331749
- accession number
- 294351
- catalog number
- 331749
- collector/donor number
- 72-06
- Credit Line
- from Western Union Corporation
- See more items in
- Work and Industry: Electricity
- Telegraph Keys
- Communications
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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