CW
OPR
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← Back to Bug Dating & ID
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Getting scratchy dits? Here's what the operators recommend.
⚡ The "Descratcher" Debate
Capacitor-based "descratchers" are a common accessory sold to filter noise from bug contacts. Opinions vary on their effectiveness:
- The case for: DL6ZB's oscilloscope measurements show that a 330nF capacitor across the bug connections visibly reduces dit bounce at ~20 WPM. He recommends 220nF at the bug plus 100nF in the keyer jack for additional RF filtering.
- The case against: Some operators report minimal audible difference, or find that proper adjustment and contact cleaning solve the problem without added components.
- The radio factor: Your radio may already have built-in filtering on the key input. Icoms and Kenwoods typically do; many Yaesus don't. If your radio already filters, an external descratcher may be redundant.
"Same bug sounds lovely on an Icom or Kenwood and like hot trash on my Yaesu FT710." — AJ7CM
🔧 What Actually Helps
Before buying a descratcher, try these proven techniques:
1
Clean the contacts
Match your cleaning to the bug's condition: New/clean bug? Paper between the dit contacts is usually enough. Older bug? DeoxIT on the contacts. Antique with heavy oxidation? Fine polish compound. Wiggle the contacts while testing — if you get solid dits with the post rotated off-center, they're still grimy.
2
Adjust properly
Don't set up your bug like iambic paddles with tiny travel. Bugs want some slap — put velocity into those dits. A properly adjusted bug has more travel than you might expect.
3
The sponge trick
Cut a small piece of kitchen sponge and wedge it inside the gap of the dit spring. This reduces wobble and makes contact more consistent. Multiple operators (WO6W, AJ7CM) swear by this simple fix.
4
3D printed wedge
Some ops use a 3D printed wedge instead of sponge for a more permanent solution. Placing it closer to the contact point seems to work best. See K8CES's designs below.
🐢 Slowing Down Your Bug
Need to send slower? Moving the weight only goes so far. Arm extensions add mass to the pendulum, letting you reach slower speeds without sacrificing control.
🖨️ 3D Printed Improvements
K8CES has been experimenting with 3D printed accessories for Vibroplex bugs, including damper wedges and other improvements.
🎧 Diagnostic Tips
- Record yourself on WebSDR: What you hear locally (bug mechanics + sidetone) isn't what goes out on the air. Use a WebSDR to hear your actual transmitted signal.
- Try noise-canceling headphones: Helps you focus on sidetone rather than the mechanical clatter of the bug.
- Test on different radios: If possible, try your bug on another rig. Night-and-day differences between radios can reveal whether it's the bug or the radio's filtering.
📻 Radio Filtering Notes
Based on operator reports:
- Good filtering: Icom, Kenwood (generally)
- Less filtering: Yaesu FT710, some others
- Varies: Xiegu G90 (reported better than FT710)
Your mileage may vary — these are anecdotal reports from operators, not official specs.
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Maintenance & Restoration
Tips from elmers on keeping your bug clean, bright, and running smooth.
🧼 Ultrasonic Cleaning
An ultrasonic cleaner is a game-changer for bug maintenance. It removes dirt and brightens/polishes parts without manual abrasion — no polishing compound needed. Especially handy given all the small screws and parts in a bug.
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Recommended setup: A Vevor 6L ultrasonic cleaner works well. Mix up a gallon of ammoniated cleaning solution: ammonia, acetone, water, and Murphy's Oil Soap.
Alternatively, L&R makes off-the-shelf water-based solutions specifically for clock cleaning that also work great.
🦶 Replacement Feet
Original rubber feet often deteriorate or go missing over the decades. These replacement feet have been recommended by operators:
✨ Nickel Plating / Refinishing
For bugs with worn or tarnished nickel plating, DIY nickel plating is an option. KD7DUG has used the following process to great effect:
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Watch the current! After ~10 minutes, you may see blackening on the metal. Turn the current down to 0.1 amps and voltage to 2.5V. The blackening rubs right off. Buff with a Dremel after the bath for a clean finish.
Tips compiled from the CW community.
Thanks to AJ7CM, KD7DUG, K8CES, WO6W, KG5VNQ, DL6ZB, and others.
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