Hal Communications DKB-2010 Instruction Manual Download

Page: 8 / 101

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Description

The HAL DKB-2010 is a solid-state, electronic keyboard designed for transmitting both RTTY (Baudot)

and Morse codes. A successor to HAL Communication's popular first-generation keyboards, the DKB-2010
provides many advanced operating features:

1. A three-character buffer memory stores the characters typed for transmission at a constant rate.

Coupled with the n-key rollover capability, it helps iron out variations in typing speed and style.

2. A station identifier, included as standard equipment, automatically transmits the station call sign at the

touch of a key.

3. The four RTTY operating speeds (60, 66, 75, and 100 words per minute) are switch selectable and, to

assure stability, crystal controlled. The Morse speed is continuously variable from 8 to 60 words per
minute.

4. A warning light and tone signal the RTTY operator when line length exceeds 64 characters.

5. A built-in RTTY test generator automatically transmits a standard test message ("THE QUICK BROWN

FOX JUMPS OVER THE LAZY DOG'S BACK Ø123456789") at a single keystroke.

6. The Morse code weight can be set to any of four ratios by a frontpanel switch. Weight is unaffected by

changes in speed.

7. The space bar functions in the Morse mode to simplify interword spacing.

8. Two "memory" keys can be preprogrammed to automatically transmit three-letter combinations. One is

normally used to transmit "CQ", followed by a space. The code for the other (the AUX key) is selected
by the owner at the time of purchase; if not specified it is coded to transmit "DX" followed by a space.

For the RTTY operator, the DKB-2010 provides automatic transmission of the case-shift code when

typing numbers and letters; the shift key is needed only for certain punctuation marks. The loop switching
transistor in the keyboard output stage is completely isolated from chassis and ground so that it may be
connected at any convenient point in the station loop circuit.

For Morse operation, a sidetone oscillator with adjustable pitch and volume simplifies monitoring of the

transmitted  code.  Five  double-character  keys  (SK,  AS,  AR,  KN,  and  BT),  along  with  an  error  key  (which
transmits  eight  dots),  provide  the  special  characters  needed  in  Morse  work.  A  tune  key  overrides  the
keyboard  output  and  keys  the  transmitter  on  for  adjustment.  Keying  is  accomplished  by  a  high-voltage
switching transistor, which may be connected for either cathode or grid-block keying.

The keyboard circuitry is constructed on three G-10 glass-epoxy circuit boards, housed in an attractive

yet rugged two-tone gray cabinet. The circuit boards are interconnected by a factory-prepared wiring
harness to simplify construction and servicing. Output connections are conveniently located on the rear

panel. The internal power supply incorporates active, series-pass regulators to ensure stability.

1.2 Instrument Identification

Your keyboard is identified by a serial number tag on the rear panel. It is suggested that you record it in

the space provided on the title page of this manual. Please refer to the serial number when contacting the

factory for information or service.