LogiKey K-3 User manual

Logikey K-3 KEYER
1
Logikey K-3 Keyer
Operating Manual ............................................................................. 2
Tutorial ............................................................................................ 11
Troubleshooting ................................................................................ 20
Circuit Diagram ................................................................................. 21
Getting Started: You will need the following with your Logikey K-3 keyer
1 3.5 mm stereo plug with two wire shielded cable for paddle
1 2.5 mm DC power plug, with wire to power source
1 RCA plug terminated cable to transmitter, shielded center conductor
1 Paddle
12 Volts DC - Do NOT use typical 12 volt wall style transformers
See additional notes on Page 11 of this manual.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
2
OPERATING MANUAL
The Logikey K-3 keyer is a compact, full-featured memory keyer combining a CMOS microprocessor and a
non-volatile RAM chip for a full featured, low cost, high reliability design. Unlike other advanced keyers, it
needs no myriad of switches and knobs nor complex keypad sequences. Instead, commands are simply sent
to the keyer in Morse code using your paddles! Some of its features:
1. Iambic keyer with dot and dash memories.
2. Six active messages plus 12 "banked" messages, 1530 characters total.
3. Messages may 'call' others and contain programmed functions.
4. Input queue to store multiple message activations.
5. Contest serial number - 001 to 9999.
6. Digital and linear analog speed control - 5 to 60 WPM.
7. Adjustable weight on code elements - 25% to 75%.
8. Built-in adjustable frequency sidetone monitor.
9. Tune function for transmitter adjustment.
10. Selectable automatic character spacing.
11. Timed pauses within messages.
12. Message loop capability for continuous replay.
13. Messages can allow break-in for paddle-inserted text.
14. Emulation available for other keyers, including Curtis "A" timing.
15. Ultra Speed mode allows messages at speeds to 990 WPM!
16. Full beacon capability.
17. Message editing capability.
18. Messages and keyer configuration saved when power is lost.
19. Keyer can compensate transmitter character shortening.
START-UP
After power is applied, the keyer responds with "OK" and is ready for operation. It is initialized as follows:
Speed range: 5-40 WPM Load mode: character
Weight: 50 % Input queue: on
Monitor: On Serial number: 001
Auto-space: Off Emulation: Logikey K1, K3
Function speed: Equals Paddle speed Monitor Tone: 700 Hertz
Note: At start-up the first time, the speed control knob should be turned fully clockwise and a few dots sent,
then turned fully counterclockwise and a few more dots sent. This allows the keyer to calibrate the speed
range.
RESET
The reset command erases all settings and messages from the EEPROM memory. If the keyer is not acting
properly, even on initial start up, execute the RESET command. The command is implemented by pressing
buttons 1, 3, 4 and 6 all down simultaneously and release. When the reset command is used, all stored mes-
sages and settings will be lost.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
3
FUNCTION COMMANDS
Commands to the keyer are entered in Morse code using your paddle. To alert the keyer that a function is
desired, momentarily press buttons 1 and 2 simultaneously. The keyer enables the monitor, disables output
keying, and acknowledges your request by sending "F".
After hearing the "F", simply paddle in the desired function character(s) explained below. When the function
is complete, the monitor is automatically restored to its previous state, output keying is enabled, and the
previous operating speed is restored.
Input command strings and the function performed are as follows:
A Auto-space - toggles the automatic character spacing feature on or off. The keyer confirms the new
state by sending "ON" or "OFF". When on, auto-spacing aids the operator in forming properly
spaced characters within a word. Character crowding is prevented by forcing at least 3 elements of
space whenever more than 1 space has been detected. This effect is very noticeable at low speeds
and can be felt by highspeed operators as well. Without auto-spacing, character spaces are deter-
mined by the operator.
B d Bank - Message banking is provided as an option to support multiple operators or preloaded mes-
sages for different contest exchanges. In the default mode, there are six messages of 255 charac-
ters each. As an option, the available memory can be configured as three distinct banks each having
6 messages of 85 characters. Bank 1 is activated by the "B1" command. Similarly, commands "B2"
and "B3" activate banks 2 and 3 respectively. Banking is disabled by the "13Ø" command, and the
currently active bank can be queried with the "?B" command when in the Function Mode.
D Decrement - decrements the serial number by one, effectively canceling the automatic increment ap-
plied when last played from a message. The decrement function accommodates resending the last
serial number, as might be needed when a repeat of a contest exchange is requested, or canceling
the exchange with a station that proved to be a "dupe."
E Edit - allows the operator to append onto or edit an existing message by entering the "E" command
in function mode, followed by the number of the desired message. The keyer will find and play the
last word in that message. Then paddle in more text, or use the error symbol (seven or more dots)
to erase existing words, just like the delete procedure when loading a message.
F dd Function speed - sets the speed used for function entry to dd WPM, where dd are two digits in the
range 06 to 30. This speed is employed for entering commands and loading messages. It is inde-
pendent of the operating speed and is unaffected by the analog speed control. Alternatively, the
function speed can be made to follow the operating speed by using dd = 00.
H Hand-key - The keyer enters hand-key mode. Keying output follows closures of the dot or dash pad-
dle levers, allowing hand-sent code. Normal iambic keyer operation is regained by any button clo-
sure.
K dd Keying Compensation - increases keying on-time and decreases keying off-time by dd milliseconds,
where dd are two digits in the range 00 to 25. Although similar to increasing weight, the adjustment
is independent of speed. This setting is used primarily to correct keying distortion by certain trans-
ceivers. Note that the adjustment is not heard on the monitor output, except when playing back the
message from the "Inquire" mode.
L Load mode - toggles the load mode between character and real-time. The keyer confirms the new
mode by sending "C" or "R" as appropriate.
M Monitor - toggles the audio monitor on or off. The keyer is usually operated with the monitor off in
favor of the rig's sidetone.
N dddd Number - initializes the contest serial number to dddd , where dddd are four digits in the range 0000
to 9999. Note that 4 digits must be entered, with leading zeros if needed. Also note that in transmis-
sion of a serial number that a 4th place leading zero is never sent.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
4
Q Queue - toggles the input queue on or off. The keyer confirms the new mode by sending "ON" or
"OFF" as appropriate. When off, message button activations are acted upon immediately, canceling
any message in progress. When on, up to 8 button presses are remembered in order and acted
upon in succession as each message completes.
R ddee Range - programs the speed range covered by the pot, with a range of 5 – 60 words per minute.
Sets the current operating speed to dd WPM, where dd is the low setting, and ee the high setting. A
command of RØ545 would set a range of 5 to 45 words per minute, and the present position of the
pot would determine the keyer speed within that range. Control via the knob is linear and increases
speed clockwise.
T dd Tone frequency - Available range is 500 - 990 Hz, where dd is the first two digits of the desired
monitor frequency.
V d Emulation - allows the operator to select emulation of the timing characteristics of other keyers. See
EMULATION later in the manual.
W dd Weight - sets to code weight to dd percent, where dd are two digits in the range 25 to 75. Weight is
the duty cycle of a continuous string of dots, which is 50 % for perfect code. A higher weight produ-
ces a heavier sound, and a lower weight causes characters to sound lighter. Once set, weight re-
mains constant and independent of speed.
X Xmit (tune) - Continuously keys the output for purposes of transmitter and amplifier adjustment.
Tuning is stopped by simply tapping either the dot or dash paddle lever.
Z d Zeros and Nines: controls the way that zeros and nines are sent in a contest style serial number. See
SERIAL NUMBER OPTIONS.
INQUIRY FUNCTIONS
Inquiry functions allow the current state of the keyer to be determined. State information is played to the
operator in Morse code with the monitor automatically enabled and keying output disabled. Inquiries operate
just like command functions: to enter an inquiry, momentarily press the right two buttons (#5 & #6) simul-
taneously. After receiving the "?" reply, enter the desired inquiry command as follows:
A Inquire Auto-space - the keyer responds by sending "ON" or "OFF" as appropriate.
B Inquire Bank - setting the keyer sends the current operational banknumber, BØ, B1, B2, or B3.
F Inquire Function Speed - the keyer sends the current function speed setting in WPM as two digits.
K Inquire Keying Compensation - the keyer compensation in milliseconds as two digits.
L Inquire Load mode - the keyer responds by sending "C" if in character mode or "R" if in real-time
mode.
N Inquire Number - the keyer plays the current contest serial number (but does not increment it).
Q Inquire Queue - the keyer responds with "ON" or "OFF" as appropriate.
R Inquire Range - the keyer sends the current operating speed range in WPM as four digits with a
pause between the slow limit and the fast limit.
S Inquire Speed - the keyer sends the current speed setting in wpm.
T Inquire Tone - setting for monitor - the keyer sends the current monitor tone setting.
V Inquire Emulation Setting - the keyer sends the current emulation. See EMULATION.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
5
W Inquire Weight - the current weight percentage is sent by the keyer as two digits.
Z Inquire Zeros and Nines: the keyer responds with the option number (0–9) currently in effect.
1 Inquire Message 1 (or 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6) - message 1 (or 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6) is played exactly as it would
go over the air, but with the output disabled.
Note: You can also play back a message sounding the embedded function commands. (See below) To do so,
momentarily press the right two buttons (#5 & #6) simultaneously. After receiving the "?" reply, press the
message memory button you wish to review. The message will be played back with any embedded com-
mands.
EMBEDDED FUNCTIONS
Certain functions can be embedded within character messages. To distinguish them from normal text, the
command strings are prefixed by a "/" and are entered as a separate word. When encountered during a
message play, the functions are executed. Note that if "/" is part of a single word, as in W9KNI/ZA2, it is
sent as expected and is not interpreted as a command prefix. Embedded command strings and their use are
explained below:
/B Break - message play is suspended to allow insertion of paddle text. The operator may then insert
code using the paddle. Once paddle input has begun, the Break function is canceled when inactivity
exceeding a word space is detected. The interrupted message then resumes. A Break may also be
aborted by pressing a button, which will cause the corresponding message to resume play immedi-
ately.
/D Decrement - decrements contest serial number by one.
/G d Gap - the normal 7-element interword space is modified to 3+ d , where d is a digit from 0 – 9. It is
used to exaggerate inter-character or inter-wordspacing. For example, a call like WØEJ can be en-
tered with slight lengthening of the space between the "E" and the "J" for emphasis, making it eas-
ier to copy. Note that /GØ yields a normal character space, while /G4 yields a normal word space. Al-
so, note that you need to wait until after the high pitched "di-dit" before sending the next letter. Mul-
tiple /G d "s can be stacked for greater length.
/N Number - the current value of the serial number is played, then automatically increased by one. Also
see SERIAL NUMBER OPTIONS.
/P dd Pause - a speed-independent pause of dd seconds is inserted, where dd are two digits in the range
00 to 99. For example, /P35 will result in a delay of 3.5 seconds. Pauses longer than 9.9 seconds are
obtained by using consecutive commands that total the value desired.
/R Resume - Stops message play to allow hand-sent entry. When manual keying is completed, press
the message button and the message will resume from that point. Multiple "/R" commands are per-
mitted.
/S dd Speed - Sets the operating speed to dd WPM in a message, where dd are two digits in the range 6
to 60. This is used when you want a message to be sent at a specific speed rather than the pot
speed. If not changed, subsequent messages called from within the message will also be played at
the specified speed. To restore message speed to the pot speed, embed the command "/SØØ".
/SU dd Speed Up - increases the operating speed by dd WPM, where dd is a number in the range 01 and
up.
/SD dd Slow Down - decreases the operating speed by dd WPM, where dd is a number in the range 01 and
up.
/U dd Ultra-speed - sets the ultra-speed mode for a message, used primarily for meteor scatter work.
Range is 70 – 990 words per minute, where dd are the two digits representing the first two numbers

Logikey K-3 KEYER
6
of the speed setting desired. For example, "Ø7" is 70 WPM, "77" is 770 WPM. Weighting (W), Com-
pensation (K) and Tone (T) settings are disabled during Ultraspeed transmission. Messages can be
created using both regular and ultra speeds. To exit Ultraspeed mode in a message, a "workaround"
is used. At the end of the desired ultraspeed text, send /SUØ1/SDØ1. This trick tells the keyer that
ultraspeed is ended and returns the keyer to the pot speed. Alternately, the message speed can be
set to a normal speed by use of the /S command, such as "/S2Ø" but this will send text following
the ultraspeed text at 20 WPM in this case, rather than the speed set by the panel speed control.
/X Close key - allows the keyer to send beacon messages that include extended key down periods.
Once started, the output keying will remain on until either the paddle is closed on either side or it is
timed out by a P dd embedded command. (see above) The P dd command controls the length of the
key closure. The P dd command should be followed by a letter "e" which will not be transmitted but
instead is used to "break" the key down mode. Regular text may then follow.
/1 Message 1 - message 1 is played in its entirety followed by resumption of the current message. To
create a continuous loop, end the message with the number of the message as an embedded com-
mand, such as "/1", where the "1" is the message being programmed or played. Also, other mes-
sages can be appended. For example, message #2's contents can be appended to the end of mes-
sage #1 by ending message #1 with a "/2" embedded command. And a loop could then be created
by ending message #2 with a "/1" embedded command.
MULTIPLE-BUTTON FUNCTIONS
Single-button closures are reserved for activating messages. As already discussed, the 1-2 combination
alerts the keyer for paddle-entry functions. Certain functions are duplicated, wholly or in part, by other but-
ton combinations:
3-4 Decrement - the keyer acknowledges with "D" and then decrements the serial number.
5-6 Inquiry - the keyer acknowledges with "?" and then waits for paddle entry of the desired option.
2-3 Hand-key - the keyer acknowledges with "H", then enters hand-key mode until another button clo-
sure occurs.
4-5 Tune - the keyer acknowledges with "X" and then keys the output continuously until a paddle clo-
sure occurs.
2-5 Reverse - the keyer acknowledges with "RV" and then reverses the paddles.
1-6 Speed Range Reset - the keyer speed range is reset to a range of 5 to 40 WPM, and the function-en-
try speed is defaulted to follow the knob. After pressing the buttons, the keyer acknowledges with
"OK". Turn the speed pot fully clockwise and send a few dots, then turn the pot fully counter-clock-
wise and send a few more dots. This recalibrates the pot position.
1-3-4-6 Complete Reset - All stored setting, memories etc. are erased and the keyer returns to original de-
fault settings.
Note: To kill a message already transmitting without sending a "dit" over the air, press any two buttons and
release.
LOADING CHARACTER MESSAGES
In character mode, each Morse character uses one byte of message memory. Precise 3-element interchar-
acter and 7-element interword spaces are employed when the message is played (unless modified using the
/G d function). To load a message, first confirm that character-mode loading is in effect by using the "L" In-
quiry function. Then press and hold the desired message button. After 2 seconds, a tone is emitted and the
button may be released. The keyer then sends "C" to confirm character mode and waits for input.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
7
Morse text and embedded functions can then be entered via the paddles. When each word is complete, sim-
ply stop sending. The keyer will detect and insert a word space, then prompt you for the next word by send-
ing "I". There is no limit to the elapsed time between words, so there is no need to hurry your sending.
The keyer includes an edit feature for immediate correction of errors during message loading. If a mistake
occurs, simply send an error indication of 7 or more dots. The keyer will erase the last word sent. It will then
play the 'new' last word (if any) so that the position in the message is known exactly. As many words as
needed can be erased this way. When the desired position is achieved, continue to enter the remainder of
the message.
After the keyer responds with "I" following the final word, the message is closed by a momentary press of
the button. To completely erase a message from memory, initiate the start of a message, but rather than
keying in text, simply press the message button again immediately after the "C" is sent. In the event that
message capacity is exhausted during the load, the keyer will send the raspy "error" message and the mes-
sage will terminate at that point. The operator might wish to then delete the last word with the error string,
then have the balance of the message continue in new message channel, and use the embedded command
number command (i.e. "/2") to tie the messages together.
LOADING REAL-TIME MESSAGES
Some operators prefer messages containing stretched or compressed spacing rather than perfect timing.
Real-time mode stores and replays messages exactly as entered. Along with somewhat reduced message ca-
pacity, the primary disadvantage of real-time messages is that they cannot contain embedded functions. Use
the Function Mode "L" command to switch to the real-time load mode, then press and hold the desired mes-
sage button. After 2 seconds, a continuous tone will emit, at which time loading mode is enabled and the
button may be released. The keyer then responds by sending "R" to confirm real-time mode and waits for
paddle input.
Since the keyer waits until the first paddle closure, there is no need to rush the first entry. Once entry be-
gins, however, the keyer loads continuously - any pauses are stored as spaces in the message. All interchar-
acter and interword spacing is strictly up to the operator. To end the message, simply press the message
button momentarily. Note that the elapsed time from the end of the last character to message termination is
stored as space at the end of the message. If room is exhausted during the load, the message is terminated
automatically, and the raspy error signal is sent by the keyer, indicating that the loading has terminated. The
operator will also notice that messages are not as easy to enter in this mode, since the keyer clock is free-
running and thus not resynched with paddle closures. However the stored message will play back cleanly.
PLAYING MESSAGES
It couldn't be simpler: just tap the desired message button. Both character-mode and real-time messages
can be played regardless of the current load mode.
If the input queue is enabled, multiple message button closures will be remembered. Each message will be
played in succession as the previous completes. As a simple example, suppose that message 1 contains
"CQ" and message 4 contains "DE WB8ZRL". Then pressing button 1 three times and button 4 once, in quick
succession, will cause "CQ CQ CQ DE WB8ZRL" to be played. As many as 8 button activations will be remem-
bered in this mode. With the input queue disabled, however, a button closure immediately cancels any cur-
rent message and starts the commanded one.
When a paddle closure is detected, messages are immediately aborted and the input queue flushed. The
only exception is during execution of an embedded /B break or a /R resume instruction, when paddle input
is expected. Otherwise, the paddles always take priority over message playback.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
8
EMULATION OPTIONS
This parameter allows the keyer timing to mimic that of other keyers, making the "feel" of the keyer more
comfortable for operators used to different timing patterns. The default setting is VØ, a timing pattern which
has proven to be the most user-friendly for many operators. Other values are as follows:
VØ Logikey K1, K3 timing w/dot and dash memory
V1 Logikey K1, K3 timing w/dot memory only
V2 Logikey K1, K3 timing w/dash memory only
V3 Accukeyer timing w/dot and dash memory
V4 Accukeyer timing w/dot memory only
V5 Accukeyer timing w/dash memory only
V6 Curtis "A" timing w/dot and dash memory
V7 Curtis "A" timing w/dot memory only
V8 Curtis "A" timing w/dash memory only
V9 Iambic timing w/no dot or dash memory
Note that this makes a full featured memory keyer finally available to those used to the Curtis "A" timing!
Tell your Curtis equipped friends! To implement a setting different from VØ, enter the Function Mode and
send 'V d ', where d is the desired setting. To determine the present setting of the V parameter in your keyer,
enter the Inquiry Mode and respond to the "?" prompt with a "V". The keyer will annunciate the "V" setting.
ERROR INDICATION
When an erroneous input or exceptional condition is detected, the operator is notified by a distinctive rau-
cous tone burst. Examples include non existent functions, invalid numeric parameters, and exhaustion of
message capacity during a load.
SERIAL NUMBER OPTIONS
The "Z d " command selects one of 10 options for sending zeros and nines in the contest serial number. Zeros
may be replaced by "O" or "T", nines replaced by "N", and leading zeros suppressed. The options available
are:
Option (d)
Leading Zeros
Other Zeros
Nines
Ø
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Ø
-
O
O
-
T
T
-
T
-
Ø
Ø
Ø
O
O
Ø
T
T
T
T
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
N
N
Note: For numbers less than 1000, the first zero is always suppressed.
EMBEDDED FUNCTION EXAMPLES
Perhaps the most powerful feature of the keyer is its ability to store functions within messages. The stored
commands are executed as encountered when the message is played. A consecutive serial number, for ex-
ample, is needed in several contest exchanges. An ARRL Sweepstakes exchange, for an answering station,
could be programmed as exemplified by: "NR /N/GØ A KCØQ 80 IA BK". A second message might contain a
serial number repeat message. This makes use of the decrement function: "/D NR /N BK".

Logikey K-3 KEYER
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Speed changes within messages are also permitted, allowing parts of a message to be played at differing
speeds. Using relative changes as in "/SU15 QRZ DE WØSR/7O UP 5 /SD 15" plays the message faster but
then returns to the previous operating speed.
Messages may call other messages. Suppose message 4 contains "WA9CNS/KH7". Then the message "CQ
CQ CQ DE /4 /4 K" will, when played, yield "CQ CQ CQ DE WA9CNS/KH7 WA9CNS/KH7 K". Call nesting may
be as deep as desired. Thus, message #2 can call message #1 which calls message#4 which calls message
#3! In fact, continuous loops can be programmed. A loop will result if a message calls itself (directly or via
some other message).
Loops can be very useful. A CQ loop in message 1, using a pause, is a good example: "CQ DX CQ DX DE
WØWP WØWP K /P35 /1". The message will play continuously, with 3.5 seconds in between. When an
answering station is heard, simply tap either paddle to cancel the loop.
If you are fortunate enough to be able to "run 'em" in a contest, the break function and looping can be a
real advantage. Message 1 might contain: "QRZ TEST DE WØWP /B 599 IA BK /B /1 ". Here, activating mes-
sage 1 first causes "QRZ TEST DE WØWP" to be sent. The /B breaks the message and allows the responding
station's call sign to be copied. The call is then sent via the paddles. The message then automatically contin-
ues and sends "599 IA BK" followed by another break. The other station's report is then copied while the
keyer waits. A simple "TU" or "R" is then sent via the paddles to acknowledge the exchange. This completes
the break and causes an automatic loop back, restarting the whole sequence.
If no one responds to the QRZ, simply tap button 1 again to resend the QRZ (remembering that a /B is can-
celed by a button closure). If the responding station's exchange is missed during the second break, use
message 2 to ask for a repeat: "AGN? BK /B /1". After getting the repeat, acknowledge with "TU" or "R" as
before, and the QRZ loop is automatically resumed.
Setting up a beacon message can be useful for certain functions. Here would be a typical beacon message
attached to message #11: "/S2Ø TEST TEST DE KØHGB KØHGB /X /P5Ø E /1". This would send the mes-
sage "TEST" twice at a speed of 20 WPM, then sign the call, then send a 5 second carrier. The "E" at the
end will not actually go out over the air, but will serve to "break" the key-down condition, then the message
will loop back to the start, and recycle ad infinitum ad nauseum.
User Note: If the keyer gets excessive RF on the input or output leads it is possible that the keyer will hang
up, and operate improperly or not at all. In such cases, the user should first try removing power from the
keyer for 30 seconds, then reapply. If that does not cure the fault, do a complete reset by pressing buttons
1-3-4-6. If this fails to correct the keyer's problem there is some other fault.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
10
FUNCTION, INQUIRY AND DEFAULT SUMMARY
Function
Command
Operation
Default
Setting
Inquiry
Mode
Range
A
B
D
E d
F dd
H
K dd
L
M
N dddd
Q
R ddee
T dd
V d
W dd
X
Z d
?
Autospace - toggle Autospace on or off
Bank - select message bank d or disable
Decrement - subtract one from serial #
Edit - begin editing existing message d
Function Speed - use dd wpm for entry
Hand Key - Output follows paddle
Keying Compensation
Load Mode - Toggle character/real time
Monitor - toggle monitor on or off
Number - set serial # to dddd
Queue - toggle input queue on or off
Range - limit speed from dd to ee wpm
Tone - Set monitor frequency to dd Ø Hz.
Variant - select keying emulation d
Weight - set weight to dd percent
Xmit -continuous key down
Zeros & nines - use serial # option d
Inquire - current setting or msg. content
A
Ø
-
-
ØØ
-
ØØ
char
on
ØØ1
on
05–40
70
Ø
50
off
Ø
-
-
B
-
-
F
-
K
L
-
N
Q
R
T
V
W
-
Z
-
-
-
-
-
05–30
-
-
C
-
9999
-
05–60
50–99
0-9
25–75
-
0–9
-

Logikey K-3 KEYER
11
TUTORIAL
Logikey K-3
by
Idiom Press
Box 1025
Geyserville, CA 95441-1025
All Contents Copyright 1998
Getting Started
To use your K-3, you will need several cables. The paddle cable and the transmitter cable should be
shielded, with the shield used as ground. The K-3 requires 12 Volts DC. You will need a 2.5 mm power plug.
Be sure the plug is 2.5 mm; 2.1 mm plugs that look identical will not work! Most modern transceivers have a
12 volt DC accessory jack which is ideal. Otherwise an external supply is required. Before hooking up the
keyer, measure the voltage to be sure it is less than 14.5 volts, and is DC! DO NOT use hobby store wall
mounted transformers.
Note that on the dual output connector, the red jack is for solid state rigs, the white for tube rigs. DO NOT
use the K-3 keyer with cathode-keyed rigs without an isolating relay. (This normally applies only to rigs
made before 1970.)
When you apply power to your new keyer for the first time, if everything is working properly the keyer will
send a crisp "OK" in perfect Morse, telling you that it has run a built-in diagnostic routine, and has found
everything to be in order.
If the keyer does not thus respond, and everything is hooked up and powered properly, press buttons 1,3,4
and 6 down simultaneously, then release. This resets the keyer EEPROM. The keyer should now respond
with the "OK", and you can proceed. If not, refer to the trouble shooting section.
One thing the keyer does not know at start-up is the position of the speed control knob. To allow it to cali-
brate itself, turn the speed knob all the way clockwise and send a few dots, then turn it counterclockwise
and send a few more dots. All is now in order. The initial speed range of the keyer is set for 5 - 40 words per
minute. Later we will learn how to change that if we want.
Send some code from your paddle. Are the dot and dash reversed from where you want them? (Most right
handed operators prefer the left paddle for dots and the right paddle for dashes.) No problem! Simply press
buttons #2 and #5 down at the same time, and release. The keyer will send back in Morse a message "RV",
as in ReVerse. Now you will find that what was the dot side is now the dash side, and vice-versa. And it will
stay that way until you reverse it again by pushing those two buttons again. Now, adjust the speed to a
comfortable setting.
You say you are used to a Curtis type "A" timing, or to a keyer with no dot or dash memories, and already
you find you can't send code comfortably? Not to worry! We can fix that right now by using one of the emu-
lations. (if you like the feel of the keyer already, as most do, skip the next couple paragraphs.) To do so, first
look at the "V" function table printed in the Operating Manual printed on the back of this Tutorial. Select the
"V" setting you want to try. Now, follow these directions exactly. Later we will explain them, but right now
let's just do it. Let's suppose you want "V6", the Curtis "A" emulation.
Press buttons #1 and #2 down simultaneously, then release them. The keyer will respond by sending "I".
Now, using your paddle, send "V6". There. Now the keyer should feel comfortable. Easy, wasn't it? If you
made a keying mistake, the keyer sent a raucous "raspberry." No problem - just start over again, by pressing
buttons #1 and #2 again, then the "V6" after the "F" prompt.
If you have used keyers before, you will instantly notice the fluid smooth timing as the CW rolls off. Now, de-
crease the speed of the keyer. See how the speed control is linear? OK, the keyer is hooked up and working,
the dot side is where we want it. Now let's learn how to load a message into memory.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
12
Your keyer is capable of storing long messages in each of six active memories. If you use only the six memo-
ries, you can store messages of up to 255 characters in each memory. That is a lot of message! And if you
choose to configure the memory into 18 messages (of which more later) you still have storage good for 85
characters per message available. Now, let's store a message in memory. Press the far left button down,
(button #1), and hold it several seconds until you hear a tone. Then release the button. The keyer will send
a "C". (This stands for character mode. We'll get into that later too.)
Begin sending your message, a word at a time. Let's load a message, "the quick brown fox". The first word
is "the", so simply send "the". Release the paddle. There. The keyer just sent a high-pitched Morse "I" to
you. That means it has accepted the word, and has injected a word space. Now, send "quick" through the
paddle, then stop again. The keyer will send another Morse "I". At this point, the keyer is prepared to wait
as long as necessary for you to program in the next word. If you want, you can take time to go get a cup of
coffee and return to the shack. It will still be waiting for the next word.
Let's go on and send "brown fax". Whoops. We wanted "brown FOX" didn't we? Do we have to start all over
again? Heck no. Instead, send the international "I goofed" symbol - a stream of seven or more dots, and re-
lease the paddle. The keyer will send back to you "brown", telling you it has erased the incorrectly sent word
(In this case "fax") and backed up to the word before, "brown". It sent the word "brown" to remind you
where you are in the message, and is ready for you to resume loading the message you want. So now send
"fox".
OK, now we've loaded the message. To close the message, simply press button #1 down momentarily and
release it. Now, to play the message, press button #1 again briefly, and listen to the keyer send the mes-
sage you programmed, complete with the correction. Let's load another message, "jumped over the lazy
dogs back" into the second memory, using button #2. Load the message in just like the first message. OK?
Play it back to make sure you got it right.
Press button #1, release it, and immediately press button #2 and release. The two messages will play, one
after the other. You could load your call on message #1, "AB1CD", and on message #2 "DE AB1CD". On
message #3, you could put in "AR V. Then, by pressing buttons #2, #11, and #3 in that order, you would
have chained or "queued" together a message "DE AB1CD AB1CD AR K". (You also have the option of NOT
having multiple button presses give queued messages, but rather stop one message and begin another.
We'll pick that up later.) You can stop a message being sent at any time by simply touching your paddle,
which instantly kills the memory transmission. You can also kill a message by pressing any two of the memo-
ry buttons and releasing, which will stop an extra dot or dash from going out over the air.
To erase a message you have already loaded, press that memory button and hold it several seconds until
you hear the tone. The message is now erased. Release the button, then either enter a new message, or
simply press the button once again to close the empty memory.
Suppose we want to shut off the monitor when we go on the air, so we can use the transceiver sidetone in-
stead? Simple. Press the left two buttons (one and two) down together, then release them. The keyer will
send back to you the letter "F". (This stands for "Function".) Now, send the letter "M". That's it. The monitor
will be off during normal transmissions, and you instead rely on the transceiver's sidetone.
Now let's turn the monitor back on. Press the left two buttons again. You will hear the speaker send an "F",
even though the monitor is disabled for normal sending. Now, send another "M", which you will hear
through the monitor as you send it. That's it. The monitor is on again. The monitor control function is a tog-
gle command, and you just learned how to switch it on or off. Note that the "F" the keyer sent did not go
out over the air, nor did the "M" you sent to toggle the monitor function. In pressing the two function but-
tons, you took the keyer "Off Line" and off the air until you had completed your command.
Suppose you screwed up and sent an "O" instead of an "M". Since the "O" is meaningless to the keyer, it will
send a raspy signal, a Bronx Cheer. That means you goofed. To recover, simply press the two left buttons
again, and send the "M" again. Or, if the command had been a valid one, but not what you had intended to
send, you could have sent a string of 7 or more dots, and the keyer would have given the error message
and then returned to normal mode.
Need to close the key to tune up the rig? Press buttons #2 and #3 together, then release them. The keyer
will send an "H", as in "Hand-key." Now, any time you press either the left or the right side of the paddle, in-

Logikey K-3 KEYER
13
stead of sending dots or dashes, you will get continuous output. This lets you hold the "key" down while you
tune up that big rig (into the dummy load, of course) in easy stages. When finished, press any button, and
the keyer will be returned to normal.
OK, that's enough for now. You've learned how to program messages. It's time to hook the keyer up to the
rig, get on the air and make a few QSO's, and enjoy how fluid and clean CW can be. And when you are
ready, move on to the next section of this tutorial, and we'll go into some of the fancier options. They are
easy to learn too, but right now let's use what we have learned so far.
SECOND SESSION
OK. You've been using your Logikey K-3 Keyer, and you've discovered how smooth and well behaved it is.
Likely your transmitting speed has improved as well. Let's start exploring the next level of features your key-
er has to offer. Let's turn the rig off, and explore more of the commands available to you.
First, let's try the "Inquiry" mode. Push the right two buttons (#5 & #6) together, then release them, which
always puts the keyer in the Inquiry mode. The keyer responds with a "?" in CW. Now, simply send the letter
"S" through the paddle. The keyer sends back a number - the speed in WPM the keyer is presently set for.
Press buttons #5 & #6 again. (The keyer automatically leaves the inquiry mode after each question, so for
each new inquiry you must re-enter the inquiry mode, by pressing buttons #5 and #6.) Now send a "Q"
through your paddle. The keyer will respond by sending in Morse either "ON" or "OFF". Now, press the two
right buttons, and send the "Q" again. You will get the same answer. The point here is that the Inquiry mode
only tells you what the keyer is set for, and does not affect the setting, The Function mode, on the other
hand, would have reversed the setting. A little later we will actually discuss the "Q" command.
Press the Inquiry buttons again, and this time respond to the Morse "?" by sending the number "1" through
your paddle. The keyer will play back to you the message (if any) presently stored in message memory num-
ber one. You can read out the other messages by calling out their number, which corresponds to their but-
ton number. If there is no message stored, there will be no response.
What is the advantage of entering the Inquiry mode to read out a message memory? Isn't it easier to just
push the number 1 button and have it read out? Yes, except that in doing so the stored message will go out
over the air if the transmitter is active. Reading the memory contents through the inquiry mode will play the
message back over the monitor speaker, even if the monitor is toggled off, and not out over the air.
Now let's work with the "Function" mode, always activated by pressing the left two buttons, (#1 & #2)
down. You will recall using the function mode to toggle the monitor speaker on and off earlier. The function
mode is a very powerful tool, and is used to control of a number of other keyer functions, some of which we
are now going to explore.
Let's reset the speed range. This will give you a good example of how the keyer is programmed at the same
time. You never send slower than 10 wpm, and rarely go above 45 wpm. So let's set up a range of say 8 -
50 wpm. (And remember, we can always change it later if we want.) Look in the operating manual under
"Function Commands" and find "R" for Range. The instruction says that we can program inside a range of 5
- 60 WPM, so we are OK. The command is "R ddee". The "dd" stands for the low range limit, the "ee" for
the high speed limit. So the command we want is "RØ85Ø". That is, I want a range of 8 to 50 words per mi-
nute. Now let's enter that command.
Enter the Function mode by pressing the left two buttons, #1 & #2. The keyer responds by sending "F" in
Morse. Now, send the "RØ85Ø" command. The keyer now knows what speed we want, but is not sure
where the speed knob is set. Turn the knob fully clockwise, send a few dots, then turn it fully counter clock-
wise and send a few more dots. That allows the keyer to calibrate itself. Now set the knob anywhere you
want and start sending, with the range tailored exactly as desired. (Be sure to note: To enter a speed below
10 WPM, you must enter a leading zero such as Ø7 for 7 WPM when sending the "Range" command.)
But suppose you really screwed up, and programmed in a range of 50 - 60 words per minute. But your top
speed is 35 wpm, and now you can't reset the range to a more manageable number? Not to worry - there is
an escape hatch, Simply press buttons #1 and #6 down together, then release. Bang! The range has just

Logikey K-3 KEYER
14
been reset to 5-40 wpm, and you are back in control. But do remember to immediately do the calibration ex-
ercise with the knob.
While we're discussing speed, let's look at the keyer speed while you are in the function (or inquiry) mode.
Normally, the code speed in Function mode is identical to the regular keyer speed. But, if you like, the func-
tion speed can be set at a fixed value, with an available range of 5 - 30 WPM. This feature could be valuable
if you like sending at high speeds, for example, but want a more deliberate speed for the function or inquiry
modes. To set the function mode speed at a fixed value, enter the function mode (always by pressing down
buttons #1 and #2, then releasing) and send "F1Ø". This will set your function mode speed at 10 WPM. Im-
mediately after you have finished sending the "1Ø" the keyer returns automatically to normal mode. If the
keyer was at 20 WPM before, it returns to 20 WPM. But now enter the function mode again. The "F" prompt
will come back to you at 10 WPM. And now, while you are entering function commands, the keyer is set at
10 WPM. As soon as you are finished with the Function mode, the keyer will return to the normal speed you
were at, in this case 20 WPM.
If you decide you prefer the function speed to track the normal keyer speed, which is the default setting for
the keyer, you may return to it by entering the function mode, then sending "F ØØ". Now the function mode
speed will again be the same as the normal mode speed.
In the first tutorial session we briefly discussed the "Q" setting, which determines whether messages can be
"queued" by pressing message buttons in sequence. The default setting is ON, which most operators prefer.
To turn it off, enter the function mode and answer the "F" prompt by sending a "Q". The keyer will respond
by sending "OFF", indicating that it has turned the queuing function off. Now, press button #1, release,
pause a moment, then press button #2. Memory #1 will start playing, but the instant you push button #2
message #1 will terminate, and the message stored in memory #2 will begin transmission. To restore queu-
ing, again enter the function mode and again send the "Q" command. The keyer will respond with "ON" indi-
cating that queuing has been restored.
Let's try the weighting function. Your keyer has an extremely accurate weighting capability because it digi-
tally processes the lengths of dots and dashes separately. Default weighting is 50%, supposedly ideal. And
for many users it is. But the weighting can be easily and precisely modified. To do so, enter the Function
mode. Answer the keyer's "F" response by sending "W 3Ø" from your paddle. Then send your call sign. Sure
sounds different, doesn't it? That's 30% weighting. Now, enter the Function mode again, and this time send
the command, "W 7Ø". Send your call again. Yup, it sure did change... Now you will likely prefer to return
the weighting to 50 %.
25% through 75% is the maximum range of weighting available, and of course in normal operation these
extremes would never be used. However, at higher speeds, some prefer heavier weighting, using perhaps
55% or 60%. Again, operators at slower speeds, particularly in the 6 - 10 WPM range, may prefer a weight-
ing of perhaps 45% or 40% for a more pleasant sound. If you are new to such matters, the best advice is to
restore the weighting to 50% and leave it until you have a specific reason to change it. You might want to
get a friend who is a good CW operator to listen to your signal over the air and advise you.
The weighting percentage the keyer is set for can also be queried through the Inquiry mode. To check, sim-
ply press the right two buttons (#5 and #6) to enter the Inquiry mode, and answer the "?" prompt by send-
ing a "W" through your paddle. The keyer will send the spacing percentage it is presently set for.
Some transmitters, unfortunately, do not perfectly reflect the keying supplied to them. The usual problem is
that they tend to shorten the length of all dots and dashes from the keyer. Such delays allow QSK circuitry
time to function, and the keying errors are the same at all speeds. A recent major transceiver, for example,
subtracts 18 milliseconds from all dots and dashes. This gives the listener to your rig an impression of light
weighting, especially at higher speeds.
Such induced errors can be cured by setting weighting to a heavier value. But such a correction is correct at
only one speed setting. The K-3 Keyer offers a specific correction for this problem, the "V function. To cor-
rect an 18 millisecond error, enter the Function mode, then send the command "K 18" through your paddle.
The "K 18" adds 18 milliseconds of transmit time to every transmitted dot and dash, thereby canceling out
the keying error at any speed setting!

Logikey K-3 KEYER
15
But what correction is appropriate for your rig? Ask stations on the air how your weighting sounds, particu-
larly if it is set at 50%. If other operators tell you it is light, try adding say 5 milliseconds (K 5) and ask for
further reports, preferably from the same station. Remember, it takes only a few seconds to change the set-
ting for an experiment. Note too that you may need to use a different setting when you switch your linear
on or off.
The "K" function setting can be read from the "Inquiry" mode if desired by responding to the "?" prompt by
sending the letter "K" through your paddle.
Also, during normal playback through the monitor, the effect of the "K" factor is masked by the keyer. How-
ever, when a stored message is played back through the Inquiry mode, the extra compensation may become
noticeable.
Another function mode control is to switch auto spacing on or off. Auto-spacing has always been controver-
sial among CW operators; some operators prefer it while others abhor it. What auto spacing does is force
the operator to leave at least three space elements between transmitted letters, so that with auto character
spacing letters are not run too close together. When you send a letter and then pause before sending the
next letter, the keyer senses that more than one space element has gone by in the timing, and will not begin
transmission of the next letter until a full three space elements have passed. Without auto spacing, the oper-
ator alone is responsible for the timing of transmitted letters.
The reason some operators dislike it is that if they try to force letters through too quickly, the keyer "stut-
ters" and won't start sending the next letter until the mandated three element spaces have gone by. This
causes a feeling of loss of control in the mind of some operators. Other operators relish the extremely pre-
cise letter spacing that auto-spacing allows. The Logikey default is to have auto spacing off. To turn it on,
enter the function mode, then answer the "F" prompt by sending "A". Since auto-spacing is a toggled func-
tion, this will reverse the existing state, and auto-spacing will be turned on. Once it is on, send a little CW
for practice, and see what you think. Auto-spacing is much more noticeable at slower speeds, especially for
operators going slower than their normal operating speed. To turn auto-spacing off, again enter the function
mode (by pressing buttons one and two, in case you forgot) and answer the "F" prompt by again sending
the letter "A" through your paddle.
The on or off state of the auto-spacing switch can also be checked by using the Inquiry mode. Respond to
the "?" prompt with the letter "A". The keyer will answer with either "ON" or "OFF".
Please, one last comment about auto-spacing on your keyer. If you disliked autospacing on other keyers, try
it again on your Logikey Keyer. You will almost surely find the implementation far friendlier than that of any
other keyer you have ever used, and you might just change your mind. Give it a chance.
While we're playing around, let's try resetting the monitor tone. The default setting is 700 hertz. Enter the
Function Made, and enter "T9Ø". Suddenly, you will find a monitor note of 900 hertz. The command is "T dd "
where " dd " represent the first two digits of the monitor frequency. If you don't like 900 Hertz, a "T7Ø" will
restore the monitor to the default. The available tone range is 500 hertz to 990 hertz.
Another available function command offers a choice between "Character Mode" or "Real Time Mode" for
loading messages. You already know that when you hold down the memory button to initiate the loading of
a message, the keyer responds with a Morse "C", telling you the keyer is in "Character" mode. When we dis-
cussed this earlier, we were more interested in getting you up and running, rather than covering all the fine
points at once. We stated that we would come back to that "C" for Character mode later - and now is the
time.
You already know that to program a message you send a word, and that the keyer sends a high-pitched "I"
to tell you the word has been added, as well as a word space increment, and then accepts the next word.
You also learned that you could remove a mis-sent word by sending a string of dots, which the keyer would
recognize and would then erase the last word loaded. These techniques allow maximum utilization of the
memory, allowing the longest possible message to be loaded. They also are more convenient for most oper-
ators.
There is an alternate load mode available, however, called "Real-Time". In Real-Time mode, what you load is
mirror-imaged back to you, warts and all. This mode can be useful if you have a special characteristic way of

Logikey K-3 KEYER
16
sending something, usually your call sign. For example, if your call is WY9IE, you might prefer a little extra
spacing between the "I" and the "E" for emphasis, so the E won't get lost in the shuffle. In Character Mode
message loading, you could add a complete word space between the "I" and the "E", but that would be ex-
cessive. In Real-Time mode, you get the exact spacing you want.
Real-Time mode has several disadvantages. One is that it is wasteful of memory. Real-Time mode uses a rel-
atively inefficient storage pattern that wastes memory space. Also, since Real-Time mode is a mirror image
of what you send to the memory, you can no longer correct loading mistakes with a string of DITs.
The default load mode is Character Mode. The command switching the load modes is a toggle command. To
switch, enter the function mode, then answer the "F" prompt by sending "L", which will toggle you into the
opposite load mode, and indicate the new mode with a "C" or an "R" as appropriate. Whenever you load a
message by pressing the memory channel button several seconds, you will be reminded which load mode
the keyer is in; the keyer will send either a "C" for Character mode, or an "R" for Real-Time mode. Note that
some messages can be stored in Character mode while others are stored in Real-Time mode at the same
time.
You can also ask the keyer which Load mode it is in through the Inquiry mode. Simply enter the inquiry
mode by pressing down the two right buttons, and answer the "?" prompt by sending "L" with your paddle.
The keyer will respond with either a "C" or an "R".
Note that when loading Real-Time messages that the keyer will feel as though a crude form of auto-spacing
is on. This is a necessary feature of the design to maximize memory usage.
There is one other point about loading messages in character mode. Using the embedded "G" command, the
operator could tailor the space between the "I" and the "E" in stored memories. But we will examine that
later. Now let's discuss the Bank command and how the keyer uses memory. You will remember that in the
default mode the keyer has six memories, each capable of storing messages up to 255 characters in length.
However, the keyer also offers the option of dividing the memory into 18 messages, each capable of storing
85 characters each. (Still very long!) The catch is that you cannot use all the messages at any given time.
If you are in the default state, which is "BØ", the memory is divided into 6 banks of 255 characters each.
However, if you change the banking command to "B1", "B2" or "B3" via the Function mode, the memory is
automatically set to store 18 messages. "B1" allows you access to six messages in bank #1, and all the oth-
er commands work as stated. If you desire to set up another bank of messages, enter the Function mode
and send "B2". You will now have available 6 new empty messages. Going to bank 3 by the Function com-
mand "B3" gives you the last six.
Messages stored in each bank can only be called and used when that bank is active. So, the active contest
operator could store one set of messages for the CQWW contest in Bank 1, the ARRL DX contest in Bank 2,
and Sweepstakes in Bank 3. Or, a family of hams could each have their own bank, callable at will.
OK, that's enough for this session. Of course, many of the commands and features we have explored will be
used lightly or never. Which is exactly as it should be. The defaults are set to reflect the desires of most CW
operators. But by now you surely have a greater understanding about some of the features of the keyer, and
have doubtless customized several of the defaults for your own satisfaction. In the final lesson, we will learn
how to set up the message memories to do some really neat and useful tricks, like automatic serial number
generation, automatic speed changes in mid-message, closed loop messages etc. But take some time off be-
fore you get into that. Get on the air and make some contacts with your keyer, and play with what you have
already learned.
THIRD SESSION
Although the features you have learned thus far already put your Logikey K-3 Keyer far beyond most keyers,
there is one more layer of commands and tools that will really make you and your keyer shine. These fea-
tures include several more function mode commands, and another type of command, the embedded com-
mand. Embedded commands are inserted into programmed messages, and allow pauses, closed loops, call-
ing one message from within another, contest serial numbers, speed changes inside the message and more.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
17
What is an embedded command? It is a special command inserted (through the paddle) into a message
being loaded into memory. Embedded commands can only be used in a message loaded in Character mode,
rather than Real-Time mode. Embedded commands always follow a word space "I", and start with a "/", fol-
lowed immediately by the command.
For purposes of this tutorial only, a "_" in the following text is to be considered a WORD SPACE - not a trans-
mitted character. The underline dash is easier to recognize than a simple space. OK? Good.
How do you program your portable call sign in if the "/" is used for entering an embedded command, you
ask? Simple. As long as the slash bar is NOT preceded by a word space, the keyer will recognize it as a slash
bar. So if you are signing WY9IE/KH7, no problem at all. Just key it into the memory. (On the other hand, if
you want to program in WY9IE_/KH7 with a word space pause, that can be done with the Gap command,
which we will learn shortly.)
Let's try out a message with an embedded command. First, let's call one message from inside another. To do
so, first load into memory #1 your call sign "DE WY9IE AR". Now, load the following into message #2:
"CQ_CQ_CQ_/1" (Don't forget that the "_" means a word space in your message load, indicated by the key-
er's high-pitched "I".) Got it stored? OK. Now, simply press the #2 button to play out its stored message.
Hah! See that? It called and played message #1, running it out with a perfect word space between the two
messages.
OK, now load a different message into message #1 "CQ_CQ_CQ_DE_WY9IE WY9IE_/1". OK, now play it
back. See how it keeps playing over and over again? You have created a closed loop, with the message con-
tinuously calling itself. Of course, to stop the message, all you have to do is touch your paddle, or press any
two buttons and release.
Load into message #2: "12345". Then, load this into message #1: "ABC_DEF_GHI_/2_JKL_MNO". Now play
message #1 back. See how message #1 picked up the embedded call to message #2, then, when message
#2 had run its course, message #1 continued?
Now, let's examine the embedded Pause command, called by "/Pdd", where dd stands for an operator se-
lected number between ØØ and 99, and where each digit stands for one tenth of a second. So, load this
message into memory #1: "CQ_CQ_CQ_DE_WY9IE_WY9IE_AR_/P5Ø_/1", then play it back. Now you
should have the CQ message play, sign your call, and then after a five second pause, repeat again. And
again. And again etc. The /P5Ø is your embedded command into the message to pause 5 seconds, then
continue, where continuation in this case calls for a repeat of message #1. And note that you embedded
two commands in a row, with each doing its thing. This closed loop message with a pause for listening is
great for beacons, contest CQing on a relatively dead band, Meteor Shower skeds etc. Try
"ABC_DEF_GHI_/P50_JKL _MNO". See how the pause allows internal breaks in message transmission? But
remember, if you touch the paddle during the pause, the message will be killed, and you are restored to nor-
mal keyer mode.
Let's make a beacon message out of it, with a key down tone of 5 seconds. Load this into message #3:
"TEST TEST DE WY9IE/B WY9IE/B /X /P5Ø E /3. The "/X" of course puts the keyer in the "key-down" mode,
and the "/P5Ø" command causes it to go for 5 seconds. You ask what the "E" is after the "/P5Ø" command
is for? It is silent - it "breaks" the key-down mode. Load it and try it. To escape the looped beacon message,
touch the paddle or press any two buttons.
Now, suppose you want a message that would include hand-sent text, like the other station's call in a con-
test exchange? For that, embed a "/B" command, "B" as in "Break". Load this message: "UR_RST_/B_DE
WY9IE" and play it. Notice that the message play back gives you the "UR_RST", then quits. Now, manually
enter the RST report -say "579", then release the paddle. Almost immediately after you release the paddle,
the "DE WY9IE" will play. The "/B" command opens a window for paddle entry. When the message reaches
the "/B" it stops and waits for your entry. While you are sending manually, the keyer monitors your sending,
and as soon as it detects a space greater than a word space it picks up where it left off and finishes the
message. Note that there is one possible problem in using this embedded command: you will find, especially
at high speeds, that any delay during your manual sending will cause the keyer to try to resume before you
are finished. Then, when it senses your continued paddle closures, the keyer will think you have terminated
the message and will stop, leaving you wondering what happened, and maybe feeling a little dumb.

Logikey K-3 KEYER
18
A similar command, "R", as in "Resume", allows more timing tolerance for hand sent entry. Try putting an
"/R" command in a message where you want to insert hand entry. When the message plays to that point, it
stops, and you may now enter any hand sent material you desire. The keyer will not finish the rest of the
message until you press the same memory button again, at which point the message will resume. Both mul-
tiple "/R" and multiple "/B" commands may be entered in a message.
Another embedded command is the "/S" command which lets the operator set the speed in a message. Try
entering this message, then play it back: "/SØ6_CQ_CQ_/S12_CQ_CQ_/S24_CQ_CQ_/S48_DE WY9IE_AR".
Note that for speeds under 10 WPM, you must use a leading zero, as in "Ø6." When the stored message is
complete, the keyer speed will revert back to the knob setting. If you wish to revert to the knob setting in
the course of a programmed message that already includes a speed command, use a command "/SØØ".
This causes the message following the command to play at the knob speed.
A pair of embedded speed controls will probably be very useful for many contestoriented and DXpedition op-
erators, the /SUdd and /SDdd commands. These commands increase and decrease the speed of the keyer
from its current setting. These commands will be especially useful in exchanges with "canned" responses,
like "59904" or "599KW".
Load this message: "/SU15_59904_73_/SD15", then set your keyer to perhaps 10 WPM and send through
the paddle: "DC7XJ DE WY9IE", then press the message button. When you return to the paddle, you will
find you are back at 10 WPM or whatever speed you started at. As you can see, this ability to speed up an
expected message can give you more QSO's per hour in a contest situation, and thus can be extremely val-
uable. When embedding such commands, remember, any time you use an "/SU" command you will almost
certainly want to also use the complimentary "/SD" to restore the keyer to the speed it started at. And don't
forget that the speeds must be given in the command in two digits. So an increase of 8 wpm would be
"/SUØ8".
Another embedded command can be useful for a number of functions - the "/Gd", or "Gap" command. Re-
member when we talked about sending "WY9IE" and trying to put extra space between the "I" and the "E".
In a simplistic character mode message, that is impossible; the only option being a whole word space. The
other simplistic option is storing a message in the "Real-Time" mode.
But with the "/Gd" command, (The "d" as in "digit") it is possible to set an exact "gap" between the "I" and
the "E". Here's how. A normal space between two characters is 3 "bits" long. (A bit being the length as a sin-
gle dot.) The "/Gd" embedded command adds as many bit spaces as you want (up to 9) to extend a normal
letter space. Remember, the minimum space is three bits long, and the Gd command adds to that basic
space. A /G1 embedded command lengthens a space between two letters only a small amount. A /G4 com-
mand will open up the space from a letter space to a word space. Try programming "WY9I_/G2_E" and see
how it sounds. Experiment with different values for /Gd. Once you understand it, you will almost surely use
it for one special situation or another.
It's time to leave the subject of embedded commands and examine serial number generation, primarily use-
ful for contest operation. The Logikey serial number controls are unmatched by any other keyer design avail-
able. First, you must decide what number format you want to use. Do you send zeros in contest serial num-
bers using five dashes, three dashes, or a single dash? Do you use leading zeros? What about nines? Do you
spell out a proper nine, with four dashes and a dot, or do you follow the now common format of using an
"N", as in "5NN"? The Logikey "Zd" function command lets you specify your choice. Examine the Z Option ta-
ble in the accompanying instruction manual, and choose your serial number format.
Let's suppose you decide on option #6, with both leading zeros and other zeros sent as a "T". Now, enter
the function mode of the keyer and respond to the "F" prompt with the command, "Z6". This will cause gen-
erated serial numbers to reflect that format.
Now that that has been set, you also have the option of presetting a serial number. If you do not do so, the
first serial number sent will be "TT1". If you do want to preset a number, say 1066, enter the function mode
again, and answer the "F" prompt with the command, "N 1Ø66". Note that you must use a five-dash zero,
as in "1Ø66" even though the keyer will send it as a "T" under the "Z6" function. Now, enter the inquiry
mode by pressing buttons 5 & 6, and respond to the "?" prompt with an "N". The keyer will send back
"1T66", CW shorthand for 1066. If you want to reset the serial number at a low number such as "23", you
must use leading five dash zeros to enter a four digit number "ØØ23".

Logikey K-3 KEYER
19
So how do we use the serial number in a contest message? Right - with an embedded command. Let's en-
ter: "NR /N A WY9IE 80 IA BK". This will give you "NR 0023 A WY9IE 80 IA BK". "But," you say, "There is a
word space between the serial number and the "A". Which is wasted time in a contest where time is of the
essence." Right. So let's eliminate that with an embedded /Gd command. Reprogram the message thus:
"NR_/N_/GØ_A_WY9IE_80_IA_BK". Now we have eliminated the word space between the serial number and
the "A". The contest operator will certainly appreciate the flexibility these commands give him.
But, you say, "What do I do when some clown calls me for a duplicate QSO and I send the serial number be-
fore I realize he is a dupe? Do I have to reset the serial number with the 'N' function command? That would
be a pain!" And indeed it would be. But you don't have to reset the number. All you do is press the middle
two buttons, (3 & 4) and the keyer sends a "D" and will automatically decrement one number! That's all
there is to it. And each time you press buttons #3 & #4, you decrement another number in the stored serial
number.
There is another button function we have not covered - another tune-up approach. Pushing buttons 4 & 5
together and releasing them causes the keyer to send an "X" over the monitor and "closes" the key contacts
to the transmitter for tune up purposes. The rig stays keyed until you touch either side of your paddle,
which releases the rig.
A special embedded command is the "U" parameter for Ultra-Speed transmission, which allows programmed
messages to be sent at speeds from 70 - 990 (!) WPM. This mode is used almost exclusively by meteor-scat-
ter enthusiasts, who record the messages on high-speed tape recorders, then play back the tapes at slower
speed for decoding. To generate an ultra-speed message, start the message with an "/Udd" embedded com-
mand, where dd are the first two digits of the desired speed. For example, "/UØ7" will send the message at
70 WPM, while "/U9Ø" will send the message at 900 WPM. Note that weighting, compensation (K) and tone
settings are suspended during ultra-speed transmission. Ultra-speed may be used as a part of a message
that also contains regular speed text. Read the operating manual description of Ultra Speed in the Em-
bedded Functions section of the manual for exact details.
There are two different ways to examine the contents of a message stored in memory without going on the
air. Load a #1 message with embedded functions, such as an "SUØ9" and "SDØ9", in the message. Now, en-
ter the Inquiry Mode and answer the "?" prompt by pressing button #1. Notice that the message plays back
exactly as it will go out over the air. Now, again enter the Inquiry Mode and this time answer the "?" prompt
by sending a "1" through the paddle. Note this time that the playback of the stored message is exactly as
you loaded it, showing you the slashbars and embedded commands, exactly as you entered them. You will
find each way of examining a stored message valuable at different times.
If you decide you want to change an already stored message, the "Edit" function can help avoid completely
erasing the message. Editing works by deleting "words" off the back end of the message until you reach the
point where you wish to retain the balance of the message. You can then add to the message or keep the
shortened message. To edit a message, enter the Function mode, and send the letter "E" followed by the
number of the message you wish to edit. The keyer will now send the last word in the message. Remember,
the "word" could be an embedded function, such as a looping command like "/2". If you want to delete the
"/2", simply send a string of seven or more dots. The "word" will be erased, and the keyer will then send the
next prior word for you to decide to keep or erase. At any point you may close the message and the editing
session by pressing the message button, or you may add text by keying it in. Remember that editing works
only for messages stored in character mode.
If you examine the regular operating manual, you will note that some of the commands discussed above can
be entered in several ways. For example, the decrement command can be sent through the function mode.
But pressing the two center buttons is so much easier it would be a rare operator that prefers the function
mode entry for this command. For this reason, the function mode method of decrementing was not covered
in the tutorial. (Till now, anyhow!) Nonetheless, you will find it and similar commands in the Operating Man-
ual.
So. That concludes the tutorial for your Logikey K-3 Keyer. We know you will be delighted by this outstand-
ing design. Enjoy it, and be sure and tell your friends about it as well. 73!

Logikey K-3 KEYER
20
Troubleshooting
Your K-3 Keyer has been carefully engineered to avoid problems.
Most problems stem from one of two problems - excess power supply voltage, and excess exposure to RF
fields.
If a voltage higher than 14.5 volts is applied, the keyer may or may not survive. Also, the warranty is voided
when excessive voltage is applied. Note that many wall mounted transformer power supplies that claim to
be 12 volts DC put out as much as 17 volts, often with a very high AC component. Such a supply can dam-
age your keyer, and will void the warranty! If there is any doubt at all, measure the output of your proposed
power source with an accurate voltmeter. If you get a reading in excess of 14.5 volts, do not use that sup-
ply!
If the keyer stops working and you suspect that the maximum voltage has been exceeded, first remove the
power from the keyer. Make whatever changes are necessary to insure a proper DC voltage is supplied, then
re-apply power to the keyer. If the keyer does not respond with its "OK", press buttons #1, 3, 4 and 6 down
simultaneously and release. If the keyer still fails to respond, one or more of the chips has been destroyed
and you will need to return the keyer to Idiom Press for repair.
Should excessive RF get into the keyer, it is possible that the CPU will "lock-up" or "crash", even thought the
design uses CMOS circuitry which is well known for RF immunity. Such crashes are easily corrected by press-
ing buttons #1, 3, 4 and 6 down simultaneously and releasing them. However, all settings in memory will be
lost, including stored messages, the speed range setting and the like.
If the problem regularly repeats itself when transmitting on the air, there is a grounding problem some-
where. Make sure all cables are shielded, and that the integrity of the shielding is OK at both ends. Cables
should be as short as possible if you are having RF problems. High SWR's often contribute to excessive RF in
the shack, so addressing an antenna problem may cure the problem. Until the problem is resolved, operat-
ing at reduced power levels may be a temporary "fix." Although they should not be necessary, the user can
put .1 µF capacitors across the paddle base between the dot post and ground, and the dash post and
ground.
For any other problems, write to Idiom Press, P.O. Box 1025, Geyserville, CA 95441. Include a stamped ad-
dressed return envelope and a careful description of the problem. You will receive a prompt response. Also,
Idiom Press will promptly repair non-functioning keyers for a reasonable fixed charge which will be quoted in
response to your inquiry. The fixed charge repair will not apply to keyers which have had over-voltage ap-
plied or have been damaged by lightning strikes near the station. In these cases, quotations for repairs will
be made after receipt of the keyer and examination.