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Introduction to the Tiny Paddle
Do you operate parks on the air or summits on the air, or just enjoy portable operations? If so, I've got a device here that might interest you. It's very small and reduces the overall weight you need to carry. Not massively, but less bulk is always good news.
Let's take a look at this device. It's a new tiny paddle key, designed to be as small as possible while retaining good paddle key performance. It's made in America and really is dinky. If you're trying to make your portable gear as small as possible, you can't get a key much smaller than this.
Understanding the Paddle Key
If you're new to ham radio, all modern transceivers now have what we call a keyer circuit inside. This paddle key works with that circuit. Press one side for automatic dots and the other side for automatic dashes. The speed of the dots and dashes is controlled by your transceiver.
Plug this lead into the back of your transceiver, and you can send Morse code. You may not be interested in Morse code, but if you are, it's a great way to participate in summits on the air and parks on the air. Not that you have to operate CW for those activities, but the advantage of CW or Morse code is significant.
Advantages of Morse Code
Some operators only use Morse code. If you want to work them, you need to send and receive Morse code. Additionally, operators tend to favour Morse code when conditions are difficult. When operating a summits on the air station, you're likely using lightweight gear and running low power. The Morse code signal will get through better under these conditions.
If you're learning CW or have just started, take heart. When contacting a summits on the air or parks on the air station, operators are usually happy to operate at slow speeds for you. The exchange is simple: location, signal reports, and name. The content of each contact is very small and short.
Testing the Tiny Paddle
Now, let's see if this little dinky key can actually work. Can it fulfill its function of being a small, compact, but serious and well-designed key that can replace bigger keys?
The tiny paddle is indeed tiny. The outer shell acts as a case for carrying it around. Put it in your bag, pull the key out, turn it around, and push it back into the cover to provide something to hold on to. The plastic outer case feels strong and is completely hollow, with one end slightly larger to accept the key.
Design and Functionality
Turning it over, there's another plastic part on the top which is an adjustment tool. The key is symmetrical with "DIT" printed on one side and "DAR" on the other. You can rotate it to have the dips and the dais on the side you prefer.
Each paddle is mounted on a metal finger, with a plastic area for your finger and thumb. Opposite that is a little metal contact that makes contact with a plastic board that comes out. This design works very well.
Connecting to Your Transceiver
There's a 3.5mm socket to connect the key to your transceiver. The plastic tool is used to adjust the metal finger, reducing or increasing the spacing. Although I didn't need to adjust it, it's there if necessary.
We supply a 3.5mm lead, and you need a compact plug because there's not much space when you put the cover on. The lead we supply fits perfectly, and you're ready to go. The key is not quite locked into place until you press it, making a click sound. This makes for an efficient, compact, and small system.
Performance and Usability
Let's plug it in and see how it works. It's certainly smaller than my other key, which isn't particularly big, but you can see the size difference. For portable operations, this tiny paddle weighs nothing compared to a heavier key that could weigh nearly a kilo. You save space and weight.
However, you need to handhold it when sending CW because it's not heavy enough to stay put on a table. Despite this, it works extremely well and feels nice. I have no hesitation in using it for portable operations. It didn't let me down and didn't require any adjustment for spacing.
Base Station Use
Could you use it for base station use? Of course, you can. It's not going to replace your super duper paddle key, but it works. I've had a number of contacts on the main station using this paddle key in my hand. It's a two-handed job, but it works.
Considering the price, it's a reasonable option. You can pay three or four hundred pounds for a paddle key, but this tiny paddle key costs less than forty pounds. For portable operations, it's ideal. A fancier key would be heavier and take up more space.
Weather Resistance
Is it waterproof? Not really, but you could cover it with your hand if it's raining. It's shower-proof, shall we say. Overall, I was very impressed with it, and I'm sure you will be too if you decide to purchase one for your next adventure.
Conclusion
The tiny paddle key is an excellent addition to your portable CW operation gear. It's compact, lightweight, and performs well. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just starting, this tiny paddle can enhance your portable operations, making it easier and more efficient.
Thank you for reading. I hope you found this information useful. Until next time, happy operating and enjoy your portable adventures!
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