Type:  Solid state, automatic keying device. It generates a distress signal and would be plugged into the "key" input of the main or emergency transmitter. The primary function of the alarm is to take over complete control of the ship's reserve or emergency transmitter. When set into operation, it will automatically switch on the reserve transmitter and key the distress call SOS three times followed by DE and then the ship's call sign. After the call sign, two 15 second dashes are keyed so that any ship in the vicinity can take a bearing on the vessel in distress, At the end of the second 15 second dash, Autokey will switch off the transmitter in order to conserve emergency  power. After a 12 minute break, Autokey again switches on the reserve transmitter, and after allowing an 8 second warmup period, will repeat the distress call sequence.  This sequence will be repeated every 12 minutes until it is either shut off or the emergency power has been drained.

Autokey N will provide the same keying cycle for the ship's main transmitter but does not switch off the transmitter between each distress call. It can also transmit the autoalarm consisting of 12 four second dashes  with each dash being separated ny one second interval.

Mains power: 24 VDC batteries.
Dimensions: 43mm H x 483mm W

This is the prototype model of the Autokey N alarm. The front panel is very similar to that of the Autokey 2 alarm (Image courtesy Marconi Mariner magazine)

---

Contributors and Credits:

1) Ross Bradshaw [ross.bradshaw@mypostoffice.co.uk]

Apr 3/20