I'VE GOT BUGS!    

A Little History

The history of the Vibroplex goes back to the early 1900s. Telegraphers of that day were using a straight key and after hours of operation, many of the operators developed a “glass arm” from the repetitious up and down movement required.

  Telegrapher and inventor, Horace G. Martin developed a keying device that used a side to side motion to operate it, and by use of a spring made sending dits automatically, although the dahs were still sent manually. This new device was named the “Vibroplex.”

  A number of different models of the Vibroplex were developed over the years and some of those original models are still in use today almost 100 years later. Vibroplex keys have become collectors’ items, although you can still buy brand new Vibroplex keys. Just recently the company has added one of the old models to the new line, the Blue Racer. The Blue Racer has a smaller base, instead of the standard 3.5-inch base; it is 2.5 inches wide and powder coated with the original cobalt blue color.

  There are many old timers still using “bugs” rather than electronic keyers and there is a new wave of interest from hams like myself, who like the distinctive sound of bug created CW, and have purchased either an old device or one of the newly manufactured ones.

  Learning to operate these bugs is a matter of practice and proper adjustment. We have all heard bad bug ops sending dits at 30 WPM and dahs at 15 WPM. With a little practice and some additional weights on the operating arm, a reasonable ratio of dit to dahs can be achieved. I have tried to duplicate the spacing and ratio of my electronic keyer and though not perfect, it is close and gives me a personalized fist.

The Blue Racer and The Original

A recent addition is the GHD GD107WS

This key was a birthday gift from my good friend Luke, JN3XAO

The Trio

The latest addition, a Hi-Mound BK-100 

Luke,  JN3XAO / K3DJ

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