Editing Telegraph key (section)

====Sideswipers====
The first widely accepted alternative key was the ''sideswiper'' or ''sidewinder'', sometimes called a ''cootie key'' or ''bushwhacker''. This key uses a side-to-side action with contacts on both the left and right and the arm spring-loaded to return to center; the operator may make a ''dit'' or ''dah'' by swinging the lever in either direction. A series of ''dits'' can be sent by rocking the arm back and forth.

This first new style of key was introduced in part to increase speed of sending, but more importantly to reduce the [[repetitive strain injury]] which telegraphers called "[[glass arm]]". The side-to-side motion reduces strain, and uses different muscles than the up-and-down motion (called "pounding brass"). Nearly all advanced keys use some form of side-to-side action.

The alternating action produces a distinctive rhythm or ''swing'' which noticeably affects the operator's transmission rhythm (known as ''fist''). Although the original sideswiper is now rarely seen or used, when the left and right contacts are electrically separated a sideswiper becomes a modern single-paddle key (see below); likewise, a modern single-lever key becomes an old-style sideswiper when its two contacts are wired together.