Cheap 'n dirty keyer circuit?

[blue runner]

Anyone ever make a keyer circuit that just rectifies some of the input RF to drive the relay directly. That would eliminate keying transistors and associated circuitry. Would be handy to operate a remote keyed amp too.

Shouldn't take much power from the input signal and most have to reduce their drive anyway.

 

[Captain Kilowatt]

The current requirements are too high to do that. That is why a transistor is used as they will turn on with very little base current.

 

[dc2rf]

I gave up on "simple" keying methods when it came to operating CW. I had to have a keyer with memory because it is just too exhausting to repeat the same info every QSO. I purchased a Logikey kit, and am happy with it.

I don't discourage your attempts at designing and constructing, of course.

Good luck and have fun.