BC-543 by Crypto AG Zug
Boris Hagelin of Sweden developed a long line of cipher systems, beginning with the B-21, B-211, C-35, C-36, C-38 (which later became America's M-209). The C-38 was then produced with a keyboard and motor in order to increase speed of operation.  The keyboard version of the C38 was designated BC-38.  A later, minor update to the C38 resulted in the BC-543. Does anyone know the details of this minor upgrade?
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BC-543 photos in this set courtesy A. Celli

 
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BC-543 photos with one showing the cover in place. (Photo via E-bay)
Mark Sims offers his advice for BC-543 ink rollers. "Another useful bit of info for M-209/CX-52/C-446/BC-543 users is a good source of ink rollers for the machines.  Most office supply stores carry the NuKote NR-40P ink roller for calculators.  It is also numbered EA770R,  CP-16, or IR-40 by other manufacturers.  It is used by over 100 different  calculators.

The ink element is the exact inside and outside diameter as the M209/CX52/BC543 ink roller,  but about 1/8" longer.  It is very easy to modify the calculator roller for use with the cipher machines.  Wear gloves,   it's incredibly messy and the roller gushes ink at the slightest provocation.

First snap the roller/axle out of the "U" shaped clip.  Next take the roller off of the axle.  I have found it easiest and cleanest to cut the end of the  axle off first.  I use a pair of diagonal wire cutters.   Next trim the roller with a razor blade or surgical scissors to 3/8" long.   I have found it easiest to get a clean square cut with the surgical scissors.   Finally the roller needs the small brass axle from a real roller or you can cut one off of a piece of 3/32" O.D. brass tubing from a hobby shop".

Mark Sims <holrum(at)hotmail.com>

MORE BC543 PHOTOS
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All photos in this table via Jan Lispet.

 
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Lubrication instructions. 
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Spare parts kit.
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Contents of carrying case lid.
All photos in this table via Jan Lispet.

 
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All photos in this table via Jan Lispet.

 
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Another version of the BC-543 tool box. (Photo by John Alexander)
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BC-543 ping and lug setting tool. (Photo by John Alexander)

Credits and Contributors:

1) A. Celli a.celli(at)infinito.it
2) Mark Sims <holrum(at)hotmail.com>
3) Jan Lispet <jw.lispet(at)casema.nl>
4) John Alexander <jalexuk(at)enigmaandfriends.com>


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July 13/12