The Key and Plug Assembly No. 8
was a standard World War II British Army Morse code key and protective
base assembly. Equipped with a built-in Send/Receive switch and webbing
straps, it was primarily designed to be strapped to the wireless
operator’s thigh or knee for portable field operation.
These rugged assemblies were predominantly issued alongside lightweight and man-pack transceivers such as the Wireless Set 18 and Wireless Set 68.
Here are the key details and specifications for the assembly:
- Base & Housing:
Mounted on a metal base with a protective metal cage/box lid to guard
the key against dirt and accidental pressure during transport or rough
handling.
- Switching: The assembly integrates a Send/Receive toggle on the enclosure to easily alternate radio modes while operating the telegraph.
- The Morse Key: The actual Morse key fitted inside the assembly is the ubiquitous Key W.T. 8 Amp No. 2
(or various marks of the 8 Amp family). It features a Bakelite or brass
base with a brass key lever and adjustable silver contacts.
- Leg Straps: Features canvas or webbing straps that allowed it to be worn on the wireless operator's upper leg