[UK-CONTEST] Keyer or Keyboard? (Longish)

[Cooper, Stewart]

I use the keyboard as my primary input tool and hit the keyer when I want to send a name, or "QSY been hr for 2 hrs", or something similar. The keyer is connected to the so2r controller, so is effectively in parallel with the PC. Last weekend in NFD the PC wasn't connected to the keying line so it was all done on the keyer. I found this ergonomically difficult, having to use the keyboard with only one hand most of the time. Nevertheless, it is possible to enter text with the left hand whilst sending with the right (or vice versa) - probably something that would improve with practice. But then, I am sending with both hands if I'm using the keyboard and I'm entering data in the log too so why use a manual key at all?! I realise that keyboard skills and keying skills are significant. I am happy using a keyboard, but can't touch type. This is something which would make a vast difference to ease of operating and has been on my wish-list for years. In fact I have started a course, but still a hvae long wau to og.
There is an issue here - if you have a keyer connected directly to a radio in an SO2R situation it is possible to key radio 2 whilst the PC works someone on radio 1, which is contrary to the rules.

Stewart
GM4AFF

-----Original Message-----
From: uk-contest-bounces at contesting.com
[mailto:uk-contest-bounces at contesting.com]On Behalf Of G3SJJ
Sent: 08 June 2005 22:45
To: UK Contest Reflector
Subject: [UK-CONTEST] Keyer or Keyboard? (Longish)


----------------------------------------------------------------
   
Offshore Design Ltd
   
www.odl.co.uk
   
This email is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential
and privileged information. You should not disclose its contents to any other person. Any
unauthorised review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the
intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately.