The Heathkit HD-10 Electronic Keyer

In this video we take a look at the Heathkit HD-10 Electronic keyer.

[@SallySparks]

I had one in the early 70's. First time I've seen one in 45 years, probably

[@jimgiordano8218]

I restored one last year. Recapped checked resistors and transistors. I had a dirty micro switch for the DOT, turned out to be dirty cleaned it and it works great. Case paint is in mint condition.

[@mikegross6107]

I sure could have used that while a radioman in the Navy! Thanks for the information and videos.

[@hank1519]

Is code still used in any branch of the military?

[@retro440]

Great video, Jeff! I just restored an HD-10 for use with a DX-60 and HR-10. Vintage gear is my niche in the hobby. 73, Mike K 0 Collects Radios eXclusively

[@RonPurser]

Do you know if I can use my Heathkit Model HD-10 keyer with a more modern transceiver? I have a new Yaesu FT-DX10 - I am afraid to connect it - not sure if the voltage coming off the Heathkit keyer is incompatible with the modern solid state rigs???? I also have a Yaesu FT101EE - and it works great on that rig. Any help appreciated!!!!!! Ron WB9EGG

[@jefftranter]

The keyer should not damage the transceiver - it's more an issue of whether the transceiver will damage the keyer. The HD-10 works with with grid-block keying or other transmitters that use negative bias, provided it does not exceed 105 volts at 35 mA. The FT-101 models use grid block keying so it works in that case. The FT-DX10 is a modern transceiver and likeley not using negative keying as it is a modern transceiver. It might work if you reverse the polarity of the leads from the keyer.

[@RonPurser]

@@jefftranter Hi Jeff, Thanks for this quick reply and information! When you say "reverse the leads" - do you mean to use the ground as the "hot" lead and the keyed line as the ground?? My Yaesu FT DX10 uses a 3 contact 1/4" male - it wants the tip to be the DOT and the ring to be the DASH, and then the sleeve to be the COMMON. My manual says key up voltage is +5.0 Volts DC, and keydown current is 3ma. Does that tell you anything further as whether it can work or is compatible?? Ron

[@jefftranter]

@@RonPurser Yes, you would use the ground as the hot lead and keyed line as ground.However, if the ground line of your FT DX10 is at chassis ground , this is probably a bad idea as the keyer's chassis will be connected to the rig's keyed line and not ground. Another option is just to use the paddle of the HD-10 and use the FTDX10's internal keyer, but it looks like that would require some rewiring of the HD-10 and it would then no longer with the FT101EE.

[@barryf5479]

I built one of these back in the late 60's and used it daily. I connected a Brown Mfg. Co. dual paddle key to it (the internal key leaves a lot to be desired). I still use it today. 73 Magazine article here: www.nostalgickitscentral.com/heath/73-index/articles/HD-10-3-66.pdf

[@tommybewick]

Hey I was just reading that article in QST, a nice look at early tech, thanks!