The is the absolute gold standard for open-source Morse code keying in amateur radio. Created by Anthony Good (K3NG), this software-driven masterpiece packs features that rival or exceed expensive commercial hardware. However, because the code supports everything from basic paddles to full LCD displays, PS/2 keyboards, and WinKey emulation, its hardware design can quickly become a tangled web.
Uncomment #define FEATURE_POTENTIOMETER .
The K3NG Arduino CW Keyer, designed by Anthony Good (K3NG), is the gold standard for amateur radio open-source keyers. It provides an incredibly rich feature set, including CW generation, computer interfacing (K1EL Winkey emulation), command modes, and display support. k3ng keyer schematic repack
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Powered via the USB port (for Winkey use) or an external 7-12V DC supply connected to the VIN pin. The is the absolute gold standard for open-source
The Arduino Nano is preferred for custom enclosures due to its compact footprint and built-in USB port.
| Feature | How to Include in Schematic | Schematic Complexity | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Connect two pins from the encoder to Arduino digital I/O pins. Use a simple RC filter (resistor + capacitor) for hardware debouncing. | Low | | LCD Display (4-bit) | Connect the display's RS, E, D4, D5, D6, D7 pins to six Arduino digital I/O pins. Include a potentiometer for contrast adjustment. | Medium | | I2C LCD Display | Connect only the display's SDA and SCL pins to the corresponding pins on the Arduino (A4, A5 on Uno/Nano). Much simpler than 4-bit mode. | Low | | PS2/USB Keyboard | For PS/2, connect Clock and Data pins to Arduino digital I/Os. For USB HID, use an Arduino Leonardo or Due which natively supports it. | High | | Numeric Keypad | Connect an external 3x4 or 4x4 matrix keypad. Requires connecting 7 or 8 digital I/O pins to the keypad's row/column lines. | Medium | | External Memories | Connect up to 7 external switches (momentary buttons) between digital I/O pins and ground. Include 10kΩ pull-up resistors in the code or schematic. | Low | Uncomment #define FEATURE_POTENTIOMETER
In the world of amateur radio, the interface between the operator and the transmitter is a critical link in the communication chain. While the operator provides the rhythm and cadence, the electronic keyer provides the precision. Among the various open-source projects available to the radio amateur, the K3NG CW Keyer stands as a paragon of flexibility and feature depth. Written by Anthony Goode (K3NG), the Arduino-based firmware transforms a generic microcontroller into a world-class contesting and training tool.
The K3NG Keyer project is an incredibly rewarding endeavor for any ham radio operator. By using this consolidated "schematic repack," you can streamline the building process, moving from a pile of components to a fully functional, high-performance CW keyer. Always refer to the K3NG Github Wiki for the latest updates and detailed documentation.
: This article is for informational purposes. All DIY electronics projects carry inherent risks, including the potential for equipment damage or electrical shock. Always double-check your work and consult the official project documentation.
To give you a concrete idea of how these schematics come together, here are a few popular build variations.