The Single Current Morse Key

A basic 'on-off' switch for sending a signal. This design, which originates from the late 1830's, is the simplest form of Morse Key.

How it worked
When pressed the key completed a circuit which then sent a current down the cable. The key was held down briefly to represent a Morse 'dot' and approximately three times longer to represent a Morse 'dash'. Click here to try Morse Code yourself. Click here to see a typical Morse circuit.

Samuel Morse's patented single current key, shown here, had a spring action which forced the key back up to its off position once pressed. The spring could be adjusted to suit the individual tapping styles of different operators. Click here to try the key

Home | Site Map