Ham radio HK5A, Quick Start Manual

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HAM KEYER HK5A DELUXE ELECTRONIC KEYER
GENERAL
The HK5A Keyer is a deluxe iambic keyer capable of keying grid block, cathode or solid state
transmitters. The keyer has dot and dash memory and insertion circuits. The built in sidetone oscil-
lator has front panel adjustable tone and volume controls. The unit can be powered from internal
batteries or from an external 6 volt power supply. By using a straight key, the unit can be used for
manual keying of the transmitter or as a code practice oscillator for learning the Morse code.
BATTERY INSTALLATION
Remove the top cover from the unit by removing two screws located on the rear lip of the
cover. Slide the lid back to expose the battery holder. Install 4 C cells in the holder observing
proper polarity. Reinstall top cover.
CONNECTING THE KEY
To fully utilize the features of the HK5A, a squeeze-type keyer paddle such as the Ham-Key
HK-1 should be used. The key should be connected with the 3 CKT 1/4 Phone Plug provided. The
tip of the plug connects the dot contact, the ring to the dash contact, and the sleeve to the com-
mon contact.
CONNECTION TO THE TRANSMITTER
A shielded cable should be fabricated to connect the HK5A to the transmitter. An RCA Phono
Plug should be installed on one end of the cable and a connector to mate with the transmitter key
jack on the other end.
For transmitters employing grid block keying, connect the RCA Phono Connector to the grid jack
on the back of the HK5A. For cathode or solid state keyed transmitters, connect to the direct jack
on the HK5A.
The grid block circuit is capable of keying a maximum negative 300 volts to ground at 10 ma. of
current. The direct output keys a maximum positive voltage of 300 volts to ground at 200 ma.
maximum. Consult your transmitter operation manual for keying requirements.
OPERATION
The four position function switch on the front panel operates in the following manner:
OFF - removes both internal or external power from the keyer. Even though key-up current is
nominal, battery life will be extended by turning the HK5A off during periods of non-use.
ON - In the on position, the HK5A is operational. The internal sidetone oscillator is not functional
in this position. This position has been provided for those, who desire to use a transmitter with a
built in sidetone.
TONE - The tone position activates the built in sidetone circuit. The volume and pitch of the
sidetone oscillator is adjustable from the front panel via the volume and tone controls.
TUNE - The tune position switches the output plugs to on for tuning the transmitter.