Model CMI-26003A Flame-proof Key

This U.S. Navy Key was mounted on this very board by WN6FZH in 1962.

This key has survived for more than 44 years of intermittent use at WB6FZH. It was first used at WN6FZH in San Rafael, CA as a 2nd key used mostly for testing homebrew and military radio projects. A J-38 was the primary key used at the main station. This key is pictured in the 1963 DXpedition to the Sierras with Novice, WN6FZH, Greg.

This key is called "flame-proof" because the contacts are within the body of the key and would not ignite any explosive vapors in the immediate area of the key.

This key has been used with my HW-8 QRP rig in the field, and has been used to key other 2nd transmitters and projects being tested around the shack. It is currently plugged into my ARES/MARS Icom 735 SSB/CW radio in a 6' rack that contains the 12VDC emergency equipment.

It has survived many moves, trips, Field Days, loan-outs, physical abuse, and still works fine.

The wood is fir, and was carefully selected from some scraps of wood at a construction site passed on my way home from High School in 1962. It was carefully sanded and felt was glued to the bottom. One of these days I will probably refurbish it, but perhaps not.

First Presented: February 28, 1998

Last Updated: May 24, 2006

Note: Thanks to Tom French, W1MQ, for his assistance correcting error on this page.