Mike:
This issue comes up with some regularity on this reflector. Allow
me to repeat a message I sent on this matter some time back:
Iambic modes A vs. B:
The difference has to do with what happens after you release an iambic
condition. An iambic condition is where the dot and dash paddles are
held simultaneously (i.e., squeezed). You can approach the iambic
condition two ways: dot first and dash first. "Dot first" means you
start with the dot paddle and follow immediately with the dash while
holding the dot, so there is some time when they are held together.
"Dash first" is the same when starting with the dash. Most chips are
designed so that one or the other of these conditions is always
recognized (i.e., it is not possible to hit them at exactly the same
time). [Note: because of the way the K2 is designed to accommodate a
straight key mode, it does recognize a truly simultaneous hit, which
could sometimes cause problems. If, however, you are not using the
straight key mode, you can turn this feature off in one of the menus.]
Both modes usually have what is called 'auto complete.' That is, even
if you release the iambic condition before it is complete, it will not
just stop where you let up, but will continue to finish off the
character. Thus, in iambic A mode, if you start with a dash, hit the
dot before the dash is complete (while still holding the dash -- that
makes the iambic condition), and then release both paddles before the
initial dash is finished, the keyer will nevertheless complete the dash
and send the dot, thus sending the letter N. Likewise, if you start
with a dot, hit dash (without releasing the dot), then release both,
the keyer will send a complete dot and dash, thus sending the letter A.
Iambic mode B differs from the foregoing in that, under exactly the
same conditions as above it will add an element to the character that
is opposite the last element. Thus, under the conditions described
above for the letter N, since the last element was a dot (you started
with a dash), a dash will be added to produce dash dot dash, i.e., the
letter K. And under the conditions described above for the letter A, a
dot will be added to produce dot dash dot, i.e., the letter R. Thus,
in iambic B mode, an element is actually added to the character that
was never explicitly sent. A single squeeze starting with the dot will
produce R and a single squeeze starting with the dash will produce K.
To produce N in this mode, you start with the dash, but then you must
lift the dash paddle before hitting the dot. This does not mean you
must wait for the dash to complete before hitting the dot, just that
you must not allow the dot to hit while the dash paddle is still down.
If you hit the dash, let up and hit the dot all before the dash is
complete, the 'auto complete' feature will in fact produce a perfect N.
The K will not be sent because an iambic condition was never
established in this sequence of events.
Some find the "addition" feature of B mode to be disconcerting.
Others find is a real benefit. I, personally, began with A mode on a
CMOS III keyer, which is very good. I found it very difficult,
however, to grow accustomed to the A mode on the K2 keyer, and,
strangely, found it much easier to master the K2's B mode. Now it is
by far my favorite keyer. It's your call. I would simply try them each
for a short while, get a quick idea which has the greater promise for
your style of sending, and then stick with your pick (either one). You
will eventually learn it fb.
best wishes,
dave belsley, w1euy
On Apr 26, 2005, at 9:20 AM, Mike Markowski wrote:
Can someone point me to a web page or enlighten me as to what are
iambic
modes A and B, as shown on the K2 menus? A google search brings up
keyers, but I haven't found a page with definitions yet. Contrary to
what the K2 manual says, I find the timing on mode A to be much tighter
than mode B. In mode A, when I try to put out a letter 'C' I more
often
send either CT or K. Mode B seems easier, probably because it has a
feel much more like the Ten Tec keyer I've been used to prior to
building my K2. In any case I'm curious as to just what the different
modes are.
Thanks!
Mike AB3AP
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