CO-8 MORSE CODE WRITER AND CA-3 TAPE CARTRIDGE

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP78-03330A000700030001-6
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: K
• Document Page Count: 19
• Document Creation Date: December 27, 2016
• Document Release Date: May 29, 2014
• Sequence Number: 1
• Content Type: REPORT

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CO-8 Morse Code Writer
and
CA-3 Tape Cartridge
A. Introduction
1. The CO-8 is used to write Morse code messages on the magnetic
tape of the CA-3 cartridge. These messages are then transmitted at
high speed when the CA-3 is placed in a keyer. The keyer may be a sep-
arate unit or it may be built into the transmitter.
2. There is nothing to wind, adjust or tune on either the CO-8 or
CA-3. No battery or electric power is required. The tape is advanced
by the writer or keyer and automatically rewound by the CA-3 when the
cartridge is removed from either unit. Tape stops on the cartridge pre-
vent overrunning the end of the tape.
3. To record a message, only four simple operations are required:
place the CA-3 on the CO-8; turn the dial to the character desired;
place the CO-8 handle in the full up position and then pull to the full
down position; press the space button once between each group of the
message. Spaces between characters are automatically inserted by the
CO-8.
B. RECORDING A MESSAGE
1. Place a completely erased cartridge in place over the tape head
of the CO-8 as shown in Illustration 4. Press the cartridge firmly
down over locking pins 5 and 8 (Illustration 3) making certain that the
cartridge tape drive gear meshes properly with the CO-8. Press and re-
lease the space button a few times to insure proper tape movement.
Each time the space button is depressed, the tape should move a very
slight amount. Press the extension handle release and fold out the ex-
tension handle. Place the CO-8 on a flat, smooth surface.
2. With the extension handle in the down position, rotate the
dial so that the desired character is directly underneith the white in-
dex mark. With one hand steadying the CO-8, raise the handle as far
as it will go, then pull the handle down as far as it will go. Do not
hesitate on the downstroke; use a smooth, even stroke. The character
has now been recorded on the tape. Record each character in this
manner. Press the space button once for spacing between each group.
3. Before recording the first message, practice the operation of
the CO-8. Fast and accurate recording of messages with smooth and un-
hesitating downward strokes of the handle can be accomplished with
just a little practice. Although characters can be dialed with the
handle in either the up or down position, it is less awkward to dial
the characters when the handle is in the down position. Never dial a
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character except when the handle is either in the full up or full down
position or the CO-8 may be damaged.
4. Never remove the CA-3 tape cartridge during the process of re-
cording a message. If the cartridge is accidently removed, the tape
must be completely erased and the message recorded from the beginning.
C. REMOVAL OF CARTRIDGE FROM WRITER
Press the cartridge release button shown in Illustration 4 and re-
move the cartridge from the recorder. Immediately upon releasing the
cartridge, the tape will automatically rewind and the message will be
ready for transmission. If the weather is extremely cold,. insure that
the cartridge has fully rewound by pushing on the puller tape spool.
D. PRECAUTIONS AND LIGHT MAINTENANCE
1. The CO-8
a. Inspect the magnetic tape head (Illustration 3, Fig. 7)
frequently for cleanliness. If dirt or gum is found, clean with a
soft, lintless cloth.
b. Do not oil any part of the CO-8.
c. Do not remove the cover of the writer or attempt to make
any adjustments unless the writer fails completely.
2. The CA-3
a. If the cartridge contains lint, dust, or other foreign
matter, clean it by blowing on it lightly or by brushing with a soft,
clean, dry brush.
b. Do not oil any part of the CA-3.
c. To prevent tape damage, avoid touching the magnetic tape.
d. Under normal use, the magnetic tape should last indefini-
tely. If for any reason it is necessary to replace the tape, follow the
procedure given below:
(1) Remove the three screws from the cartridge side cover
nearest to the tape spools and remove the side cover. See Illustration
1.
(2) Refer to Illustration 2. Remove the end of the tape
from the puller spool and pull the tape from the supply spool. When the
end of the tape is reached, hold the supply spool and remove the tape.
Do not allow the supply spool to run free, but brake it with one finger
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and permit it to rewind slowly.
(3) Remove any glue or adhesive tape remaining on the
spools.
(4) Prepare 121 feet (3.8 metres) of the highest avail-
able grade of magnetic tape. Preferably clean, unused tape should be
used.
(5) Turn the supply spool clockwise until it stops and
hold it against the stop. Using a small piece of adhesive tape,
attach the end of the tape to the spool. The shiny side of the tape
must be against the spool. After the tape is installed, the dull
side must fit directly against the tape head of the writer or keyer.
(6) After attaching the tape to the supply spool and
while still holding the spool against the stop, wind about 11 turns
of the tape around the spool. Then allow the supply spool to self-
wind the tape until it stops. Carefully control the rewind speed by
braking the spool with the finger.
(7) With the supply spool fully rewound, cut off ex-
cessive tape by leaving about three inches (7.6 cm) extending from
the bottom of the cartridge.
(8) Turn the puller spool counter-clockwise until it
stops.
(9) Thread the tape over the guide posts as shown in
Illustration 2. While holding the puller spool against its stop,
first fasten the end of the tape to the spool with adhesive, then
wind it about 11 times around the spool.
(10) Check the operation of the cartridge by turning the
drive gear until the tape is completely wound from the supply spool
to the puller spool, then release the gear and check to determine
that the tape rewinds smoothly.
(11) Replace the cartridge side cover and the three
screws.
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Illustration 1 CA-3 Cartridge
1. Tape Drive Gear
2. Cartridge Release Button
3. Three Screws To Remove Side Cover
4. Side Cover
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Illustration 2 Drawing of Exposed CA-3
1, Magnetic Tape
2 Puller Tape Spool
3, Supply Tape Spool
4 Guideposts
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Illustration 3 CO-8 Morse Code Writer
1. Extension Handle
2. Extension Handle Release
3. Alphabet-Numerical Dial
4. Space Button
5. Tape Cartridge Locking Pin
6. Tape Drive Gear
7. Magnetic Tape Head
8. Tape Cartridge Locking Pin
9. Index Mark
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Illustration 4 00-8 Writer With CA-4 Cartridge Attached
1. CO-8 Morse Code Writer
2. CA-3 Cartridge
3. Extension Handle Recessed
4. Cartridge Release Button
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KE -8 Keyer
A. INTRODUCTION
The KE-8 is a Morse Code keyer capable of keying a radio trans-
mitter at a high speed. The function of the KE-8 is to pull the
CA-3 cartridge tape across the keyer reading head and key the trans-
mitter with the message written on the tape. The keyer includes an
IDY function for sending a continuous train of dots for base station
tuning purposes. It also contains a provision for erasing tapes.
The KE-8 requires an input of 12 volts DC which it obtains from the
associated transmitter.
B. KEYER CONNECTION
Refer to Illustration 1.
1. A single connector receptacle (12) provides power to the
keyer and keyer output to the transmitter. Normally, a cable con-
nects the keyer to the associated transmitter, or to the keyer adap-
tor unit.
2. Connect the keyer plug from the equipment to the KE-8 connec-
tor receptacle 12.
C. MESSAGE PREPARATION
Prepare a message en an erased CA-3 cartridge tape as instructed
in your Morse Code Writer Instructions.
D. MESSAGE TRANSMISSION
1. Turn the KE-8 motor ON-01,1, switch (10) to OFF.
2. Lift out the wind-up crank (8) and wind it clockwise until the
tape drive gear (3) rotates. When the drive gear rotates, this in-
dicates that the pring motor is fully wound.
3. Attach the CP-3 cartridge over KE-8 locking pins 4 and 6.
Press the cartridge firmly down over the locking pins making certain
that the cartridge tape drive gear meshes properly with the KE-8
tape drive gear.
4. Tune the transmitter and set the transmit operating switch in
the TRANSMIT position (or in the automatic key position) as instructed
in your transmitter instructions.
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To transmit an IDY signal, press the spring-loaded IDY
switch (11) upward and hold it against its stop the required
number of seconds gilien in your operating procedure instructions.
The transmitter output indicator should show that the transmitter
is now operating. At the end of the IDY period, release the IDY
switch and it will automatically return to the OFF position.
6. To transmit the cartridge, slide the KE-8 motor ON-ai,
switch (10) to the ON position. The transmitter output indicator
will fluctuate during the time that the message is on the cartri-
dge tape. When the transmitter indicator stops fluctuating,
showing that the message has been fully transmitted, slide the
KE-8 motor switch to OH,.
7. Remove the CA-3 from the KE-8 and allow the cartridge
tape to automatically rewind. Fully rewind the KE-8 motor before
replacing the cartridge on the heyer. WAPPING: The CA-3 must
always be removed before winding the KE-8 or the cartridge tape
may be torn from the tape spool.
8. The IDY signal and the message may be repeated any
number of times by following the directions given above.
E. TAPE ERASING PROCEDURE
1. Connect the transmitter or equipment keyer plug to the
KE-8as instructed above. The transmitter must have power supplied
and the transmitter operating switch must be placed in the RECEIVE,
ON or On position as specified in your transmitter instructions.
2. Remove the CA-3 cartridge from the KE-8 and allow the tape
to rewind. Fully wind the KE-8 then replace the cartridge.
3. Slide the erase switch (9) upward in the direction of the
arrow and hold it firmly against its stop. Then slide the motor
ON-0 EY switch to the ON position. The erase switch will lock in
the upward, or erase position. After the tape has run completely
through its length and. stops (the KE-8 motor will also stop), slide
the motor switch to the 01,1, position. The erase switch will auto-
matically return to the OEE position.
4. Remove the CA-3 cartridge and allow the tape to rewind.
The cartridge may now be used to write a message on the Morse Code
Writer.
5. CAUTION: If the KE-8 motor is stopped at any time during
the erasing period, the cartridge must be removed from the keyer
and the erasing procedure repeated entirely. To insure a fully-
wound spring, always wind the KE-8 before inserting a tape cartridge.
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F. RFT 'OVAL OF POWER
To remove power from the KE-8, remove the equipment keyer plug
from receptacle (12).
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Illustration I -
KE-8 Keyer
].
Tor. Cover
7.
Lid
2.
Bottom Cover
B.
Wind-Up Cran'-
Tape Dive Gear
9.
Erne Switch
h.
Lockin,L Pin
10.
Motor ON-OFF Switch
).
Readin Hecd
11.
IDY Switch
6.
Locking Pin
12.
Connector Receptacle
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1.
illustration -
Motor Speed Adjust Screw
'r.posed KE-8 Keyer
Reading Head
2.
Wind-Up Crank
6.
Locking Pin
2.
LockinL7 Pin
7.
Electronic Circuit Boards
4.
Tape Drive Gear
B.
Readjng Head Adjust Screws
*Lubricating Points
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Illustration 3 -
KE-8 Drawing
1.
Pipe Cleaner
3.
Brake Finger Adjust
2.
Motor Speed Adjust Screw
Screw
L.
Brake Finger
*
Lubricating Foints
5.
Reading Head Adjust
Screw
II I
voiraniu
C.sisse
wurv !Amami ivdo,
151=
11 2
L'
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G. KEYFR TROUBLE CHECKS
Other than keeping the reading head (5) clean by wiping with
a soft, lintless cloth, maintenance to internal parts of the keyer
is not recommended. Adjustment and repair of the KE-8 is difficult
and should be performed by trained electronic technicians. As long
as you are able to transmit messages to the satisfaction of the
base station, do not open the keyer cover to expose the internal
parts. If difficulty is encountered, first check your transmitter,
battery, antenna, and repeat the checks until you are certain that
the trouble is not in another piece of equipment.
1. Keyer Operation by Observation
a. Fully wind the keyer and check that each control
operates as described in paragraphs D and E. Check the transmitter
output indicator fluctuations at the time you transmit a message to
base. After erasing the cartridge at the conclusion of a base con-
tact, transmit the erased cartridge as you would a message. If the
cartridge is fully erased, the transmitter output indicator will
not fluctuate and you will not transmit a signal.
b. If any of the above tests fail, check to determine that
the equipment keyer plug is making good contact into connector re-
ceptacle (12). If possible, check the battery voltage reading at
the transmitter.
2. Reading Head Alignment Check
a. The reading head (5) should be positioned so that the
cartridge tape fits exactly between the grooved slot, and so that
the tape has a slight pressure against the head when the cartridge
is in place. Gently and slowly fit the cartridge in place over
the keyer and observe that the tape falls exactly in place between
the grooved slot. Observe that the reading head is sufficiently
raised to allow a slight pressure on the tape with the cartridge
locked in place.
b. The height of the reading head may be checked as
follows:
(a). First remove the hinged lid. To do this, open
and swing the lid back fully, then slide the lid off the hinge pin.
The metal thickness of the lid may now be used to check the height
of the reading head.
(b). The white metal strip along the edges of the
grooved slot is raised to about the thickness of the keyer lid.
The height of the reading head is Measured from the black metal
top plate to the top of the white metal strip on both sides of the
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Vn-)ovc-1- slot. Merely bold the ed of the lid a7sainst the side, or
t-h? gnoved. sTot check that the thickness c-r' the lid is alrout
ne height, ns tbe white metal strip. The lid may be just
:71Wntly higher, wb:ich is normal.
Keyer Motor Speed Check
Incorrect motor speed will effect the keying. The keyer
motor speed may be checked as follows:
a. With the keyer motor ON-OFF switch in the OFF position,
wind, the motor to full power.
b. If not already marked, mark a. piece of white adhesive
tape to the taken spool of P. CA-3 cartridge so that the tape is
visible when the cartridge is attached to the keyer.
c. Attach the cartride to the keyer.
d. Flide the motor switch to ON and count the number of
revolutions made by the takein spool in 20 seconds. If the spool
revolves between 18 and 28 revolutions in 20 seconds, the motor
speed is satisfactory.
H. LIMITED MAINTENANCE TO KF-8
ONLY IF YOU ARE CERTPTY THAT YOU HAVE TROUTTE INSIDE THE K7=,
PROCEED WITH TEE FOLLOWING:
1. Remove power from the keyer.
2. Keyer Cover Disassembly
Removal of the lid and top cover (Illustration 1, Lines 1
and 7) are necessary to accomplish the maintenance given below.
Further disassembly of the keyer components is not recommended.
a. Remove the hinged reading head lid.
b. Remove the two screws from the richt and left sides of
the keyer.
c. Unfold the wind-up handle to a straight up-and-down
position, Carefully lift off the cover to expose the internal
mechanism, as shown in Illustration 2. Fold the wind-up crank back
down into the upper left-hand corner to avoid damage to the elec-
tronic circuit boards.
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Visual Check and Cleaning of Keyer
a. Carefully make a visual check to determine that there
are no broken wires or Parts. Check the connector receptacle for
broken pins or wire. Repair as necessary.
b. Internal parts may be cleaned by blowing out dust and.
small particles of dirt. If available, a small, dry, SOFT brush
may be used for cleaning circuit boards and other parts.
4. Lubricating the Motor
Fully wind the snring motor and check the mechanical
operation of the keyer. If it appears that oiling is necessary
for smooth operation, proceed as follows: Use a thin oil, similar
to a good grade sewing machine oil. Apply SPARINGLY (a very small
drop) to each exposed_ pivot bearing as shown in Illustrations 2
and 3. Remove excess oil with a dry, lintless cloth. Do not allow
oil to run into the brake mechanism or onto the governor disc. DO
NOT USE OIL UNLESS NECESSARY ; IF YOU USE OIL, USE VERY LITTLE.
5. Keyer Motor Speed Adjustment
First check the motor speed with the CA.- 3 cartridge as
given above. If the drive motor runs slower than 18 revolutions, or
faster than 28 revolutions in 20 second, the speed may be adjusted.
as follows: Turn the speed-adjust screw (Illustration 2, Line 1)
clockwise to increase motor speed and counterclockwise to decrease
motor speed. Turn the screw no more than turn each time, then
check the motor speed.. A setting of from 23 to 25 revolutions (of
the CA-3 take-up spool) is optimum motor speed.
6. Motor ON-01,1 Switch Inoperative
If the motor does not .stop when the ON-OFF switch is turned
to 011, or the keyer will not uniformly unwind the CA-3 cartridge,
the cause and remedy may be as follows:
Refer to Illustration 3.
a. Grease or dirt on the brake disc surface. Clean the
brake disc surface with cleaning alchohol while the motor is
running. As shown in Illustration "),, the brake disc surface may be
reached with a slightly bent pipe cleaner by insertlng the cleaner
between the motor spring drum and the post on which the governor
control is mounted. If a suitable cleaning agent cannot be found,
use a dry pipe cleaner.
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b. Motor brake is out of adjustment. To adjust the brake,
proceed as follow:: When the ON-OFF switch is in the OFY position,
the small brake finer adjust screw (Illustration. 3, Line 3) can
be seen at the bottoY] of the keyer. The screw cannot be seen when
the switch is in the ON position. IF the motor moves (or creeps) in
the fully wound position when the ON-OFF switch is OFF, slightly
adjust the broke finger adjust serew clockwise. If the motor will
not fully unwind, adjust the screw SLIGHTLY counterclockwise. In
the OH, position, the motor should not move or creep with a cartridge
in place or removed.
7. Rending Head Adjustment
a. The reading head is difficult to adjust correctly and
adjustment should not be attempted unless absolutely necessary. If
the previouely given keeer trouble checks and maintenance procedures
have failed to correct the trouble, and the readire, head is out of
alignment, proceed as follows:
b. Remove the top cover by removing the two screws from the
right and left sides of the keyer. Remove the bottom cover by re-
moving the four screws from the face of the cover. Shown in Illus-
tration 2, Line 8 and Illustration 3, Line 5 are two screws that hold
the reading head in place. Also, directly on the other side of the
keyer is one more screw that holds the head in place. This screw on
the back side of the keyer is countersunk that is, inside a small
hole.
c. First slightly loosen the two screws in the front (Illus-
tration 2, Line 8). Raise or lower the reading head as required.
If the reading head will not move, slightly loosen the screw in the
back. Adjust the position of the reading head as given in paragraph
G-2. It may be mecessary to slightly tighten each screw (place a
little teneion on the reading head) as adjustment is being made.
After proper erljustment of the reading head is made, firmly tighten
all three screws. Replace the bottom cever first, then replace the
top cover.
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