Ham Radio Videos
• WD6DBM SKN 2013 -- HEATHKIT HW-16
Added at 2013-01-08 07:58:30
SKN, or Straight Key Night, is a ham radio operating even where hams don't send Morse Code using modern methods like a computer keyboard or electronic keyer paddles. Instead, we use either straight keys or mechanical keys which were first developed around 1900. Here I am calling CQ using my vintage Heathkit HW-16, and a mechanical semi-automatic key or "bug.", This HW-16 was built and modified by my Elmer, Robbie, W5NYT, who passed away in October 2012. He was a scientist/engineer at NASA AMES who restored old aircraft among other pursuits. He added 5-band coverage, a 2nd IF, an amplifier relay, loading control, crystal calibrator, and other mods to this radio making it a pretty hot HW-16. Last year I hooked it up to my AL-1200 amplifier and it put out 1000w--making it--at least for one night--the loudest HW-16 on the planet. The workmanship inside the radio is amazing.