CW and the Curve Ball

 Yesterday, I decided to join the Long Island CW Club (LICW).  I wanted to support them because they provide CW training for all levels.  Probably in the future I may take a course.  My own journey back into the land of CW has been fun -- and interesting.  I wanted to try my hand at straight keys.  In the beginning, many, many moons ago, I started with paddles and pretty much that is all I used.  I thought it was time to  look at straight keys again.  I broke out my sideswipers and bug out of mothballs and started practicing with them.

This is where I was thrown a curve.  After practicing with the bug, I decided to do some POTA hunting.  I went back to my paddles and made a contract with a friend and fellow blogger WB3GCK.  Band conditions were not good and I didn't want to muddy the water with my bug sending.  Well, I found out rather quickly that after using the bug, I had to relearn how to use paddles.  I made a few mistakes (more than usual).  I sent Craig an email apologizing for my QLF.  

After that exchange, I turned off the break-in on my radio to investigate.  Within a couple of minutes of practice, I got my paddle fist back.  I also had my sideswiper set up on the same radio.  My TS-890s has 2 ports, one for paddles and one for straight key.  I moved over to the sideswiper and sent some code -- no problem.  I switched back to the paddles -- no problem.  I went back and forth a few times and I was able to use either. So, the bug went back into the box.  I guess my old mind isn't quite what it used to be, but at least I can participate in straight key events and well as use my paddles when I want.

I have quite a few sets of paddles both desktop and portable.  I found that with a homemade switch or a stereo to mono plug adapter, I can use a set of paddles like a sideswiper.  I found it easier to use my hand held paddles as a sideswiper than my desktop paddles. Old brain thing.

I also broke out the IC-705 and made a few contacts. It has been a while since I did any QRP or played with the 705.  I forgot what a fun little radio it is. There you have it; everyday a learning day. Take care, be safe and Get out an operate - de Scott