"Palm" Twin Paddle KeyOn 17th April 2018, I bought and received my new "Palm" twin paddle key. I had read a lot of
information on how very good the mini twin paddle key actually is and, I have not been disappointed. Purchased through "Sotabeams", there was a backlog, due I suspect to high demand, but Richard, G3CWI was able to reassure that a new batch of paddles would be coming in the following week. There have been a number of reviews carried out regarding the paddles but I have been so very impressed with this device that I thought I would share my thoughts with you. The device is delivered in a shock proof plastic case and has various "compartments" in it so that you can not only safely store the paddles, but also the attachment cable, a 3.5mm to 6.35mm (1.4 inch jack) adaptor. Very thoughtful. I have two electronic keyers; a simply brilliant Logikey K3 and an old timer, Daiwa DK210 which is also fantastic. The K3 keyer is the preferred choice as it is able to do so much more than the DK210. The K3 has a 3.5mm jack whilst the DK210 requires a 1/4 jack plug for the paddles to functions. So, our German cousins have once again demonstrated great forward thinking in supporting their customers A full set of adjustment instructions are also provided both in German and English and simple to follow. I tried the key without any adjustment and it was very good but, me being me, I like a very light touch and as narrow a gap as is possible. I achieved this without any issue using the tiny hex key provided. The hex key locks down and is stored in the magnetised base of the paddle casing. A very well thought out feature. Having spent a few minutes adjusting the settings to my liking, I tried the paddle at various speeds and to my utter delight, it worked flawlessly. Absolutely thrilled with its ability to knock out those dots n dashes with no errors. An excellent indication that the paddles were adjusted to my need. There are three adjusters on either side of the paddles; gap, tension and soft or hard "feel". With a little forethought as to what you are after, and careful adjustment of these three hex grub screws on the individual paddles, you can end up with settings to suit your own specific needs. Another ingenious feature of the paddles is that they can be retracted into the casing to afford full protection to the paddle levers when being transported; this is such a useful feature don't you think ? This is, I believe, unique and has never been featured on any other paddles that I know of. Well, Einstein was German after all hi ! hi ! |
The paddle key dimensions are 25 x 25 x 79 mm and weighs in at a mere 65 Grams. This is a great achievement and shows yet
again a very clear example of German engineering at its best. Truly a remarkable achievement. The potential downside of this
very small and lightweight key is that of course, in use, it will move around the operating desk if not "pinned down". Well again,
our German cousins have done a wonderful thing fitting the clip on base unit with two strong magnets and, as shown above, the
paddles can be sat on top of piece of heavy steel plate. I ordered mine off the net; a block of 10mm steel (75 x 75mm) and
weighing in at 650 grams, it does the job admirably. I now see that a pre manufactured circular base, which has a very nice
powder coated finish is now available from Palm keys and its heavier than the one I use so, I may just invest in one to complete
the setup.
Conclusion:
I cannot praise the inventor of this set of paddles too highly; yet again our German friends have risen to the challenge and with
exquisite engineering prowess, have achieved something quite remarkable.
This is a "David & Goliath" story. it may be small but by golly, it packs a real punch. I am totally behind this highly proficient,
German designed product and wholeheartedly recommend it.
If you are a CW operator, enjoy slow, moderate or fast CW QSOs, then this is definately the paddle key for you.
Some would suggest its a little pricey but I disagree. Not only are you paying for the product, you are also acknowledging the
ingenuity, time, patience and commitment that was invested in this key. It is undoubtedly great value for money and I hope to
have many years of use out of it, if the good Lord spares me.
73, Will
again a very clear example of German engineering at its best. Truly a remarkable achievement. The potential downside of this
very small and lightweight key is that of course, in use, it will move around the operating desk if not "pinned down". Well again,
our German cousins have done a wonderful thing fitting the clip on base unit with two strong magnets and, as shown above, the
paddles can be sat on top of piece of heavy steel plate. I ordered mine off the net; a block of 10mm steel (75 x 75mm) and
weighing in at 650 grams, it does the job admirably. I now see that a pre manufactured circular base, which has a very nice
powder coated finish is now available from Palm keys and its heavier than the one I use so, I may just invest in one to complete
the setup.
Conclusion:
I cannot praise the inventor of this set of paddles too highly; yet again our German friends have risen to the challenge and with
exquisite engineering prowess, have achieved something quite remarkable.
This is a "David & Goliath" story. it may be small but by golly, it packs a real punch. I am totally behind this highly proficient,
German designed product and wholeheartedly recommend it.
If you are a CW operator, enjoy slow, moderate or fast CW QSOs, then this is definately the paddle key for you.
Some would suggest its a little pricey but I disagree. Not only are you paying for the product, you are also acknowledging the
ingenuity, time, patience and commitment that was invested in this key. It is undoubtedly great value for money and I hope to
have many years of use out of it, if the good Lord spares me.
73, Will