External
Paddle Modification
for the Heathkit
|
The Heathkit HD-1410 was (and is) a
great keyer...BUT
-you can't access the paddle
mechanism to adjust it
-the paddle mechanism needs some optimizing for faster-speed operation
-original bulky fingerpieces are not at the best height or location for
comfortable sending
-keyer itself takes up lots of real estate if you place it on the
operating desk in front of the operator
|
The Heath HD-1410 electronic keyer
was
first manufactured in the
mid-70s, and continues to be a very popular iambic keyer. Initial
reviews (QST, March 1978) gave it fairly high marks for design,
operation, and overall appearance. Features include the ability to key
both positive and negative line-to-ground transmitters. Chuck Penson's
Heathkit Guide book calls the HD-1410 "one of the most popular keyers
ever made by anyone." I never liked the
inability to easily adjust the internal paddle, and I
found the height of the fingerpieces above the desk to be greater than
I preferred. Also, I did not like the amount of real estate the keyer
took up on the operating desk when positioned to let the operator use
the internal paddles. The HD-1410 paddle mechanism is a clever design
and works amazingly well when you can access the adjustments.
When starting this project of moving the HD-1410 paddle mechanism out
of the
keyer, I had several goals:
- provide access to the paddle mechanism to allow for easy
adjustments
and a lighter sending touch
- produce a different but yet reliable paddle with more
conventional fingerpieces allowing higher sending speeds
- keep costs low
I believe the external paddle modification presented here
accomplishes these
things, and that the result is a paddle like no other -- a
semi-vertical, easy-to-adjust, reasonably priced
"industrial/functional" design that I find both unique and
attractive. The base is 3 inches by 3
inches - a size that is perfect for the operating desk, as it does not
get in the way like many larger paddles. The base uses low-profile,
very "grippy" rubber feet,
and so does not move around in use. Mounting the mechanism on a
custom bracket at a 45 degree angle gives the paddle its unique look,
but also an aesthetic that fits the base size while allowing for
attachment of new fingerpieces. Click on the photos below for a
larger view of the modified keyer and the external paddles with either
red or black fingerpieces.
LINKS:
Notes
on
HD-1410 troubleshooting
eHam HD-1410 Product
Reviews
Heath
HD-1410
Service Bulletins
WB8VGE's "The Heathkit Shop"
A Chronology
of Paddles and Keyers
Contact N3CW for more
information on the modified paddle.
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to N3CW Home
last updated
May 4, 2014
