J.H. Bunnell
J.H. Bunnell 7939
This J.H. Bunnell Number 7939 brass spark wireless key is complete and
original with 1/8 inch contacts in removable holders, auxiliary connector
strap from lever to base for heavy currents, old style fixed pivots. It
sold for $4.00 in Catalog number "28" June 1, 1920.
Steel Lever Keys
The construction of the modern telegraph key may be readily understood
from these Steel Lever Keys by J.H. Bunnell No. 9040 - 9044 which were Patented
and Stamped on these keys Feb. 15, 1881. Pictured with metal extensions,
termed "Legs," projecting from an oval-shaped metal strip, or base. The
Leg is connected directly with the base. The Leg passes through the base, and
is insulated from it by a bushing of hard rubber. On its top it is furnished
with a cone-shaped cap termed the anvil, carrying a small platinum point.
A small flat strip of metal extends out a short distance from the cap. At a
point on its under side, directly above the platinum point on the lever is
also supplied with a projecting platinum point termed the hammer. The
lever of the key is supported at its trunnion by the set screws shown. A curved
strip of metal termed the "circuit closer," is pivoted on the base as
shown. The lever and the circuit closer are each supplied with hard-rubber
finger-tips , or knobs, by which they may be freely moved. A spring,
adjustable by the set screw normally lifts the lever from the contact
point. One terminal of the circuit, of which the key may form a part, is brought
to the leg. As the leg is insulated from the base, the circuit would be open
but that the circuit closer slips between and the base, thereby continuing
the circuit from the oval to the leg. When the operator is about to
"Send," the circuit closer must first be pushed out so as to permit the lever when
it is operated to open and close the circuit.
Mascot Wireless Key No. 8650
The Mascot Wireless Key No. 8650 --Description taken from J.H. Bunnell
Catalogue No. 28, Priced at $3.00 each.
This Key has a base of extra heavy brass with solid brass trunnions. A
bronze lever, correctly designed and perfectly balanced is set in the
sockets of the adjustable trunnion screws. The lever is provided with an
auxiliary copper conductor, preventing arcing at the trunnions. Contact
points are of No. 6 or No. 8 B&S Gage extra hardened coin silver,
insulated with the highest grade of India Mica. The sockets in which the
contacts are set can be removed with a pair of pliers --- the work of a moment when
replacement becomes necessary. For lightness of touch and operating speed
it is the equal of any Morse Key made. Highly polished and beautifully
finished in gold lacquer. It is the finest moderate priced key made.
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