Telegraph, control the way to send a message

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In summary, in the TV series "Hell on Wheels", the characters connected their telegraph terminal to a telegraph cable to send a message in a particular direction. This was done by either choosing the cable that went in that direction or sending an identifier for the receiving station they wanted to reach. The operator at the receiving station would then listen to the Morse code message coming through. This was a common method during the time of single wire and Earth return telegraph systems.
  • #1
Charles123
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I was watching “Hell on Wheels” (nice series by the way), and with a train stopped they connected their telegraph terminal to the telegraph cable, and decided to send a message in a particular direction. How was this done? How is the direction for sending the message controlled?
Thank you
Regards
 
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  • #2
1) They chose the cable that went in that direction ? ... would be the obvious reasoning,
not having seen the series I can't elaborate any further

2) all stations were connected on the common line and sender would send an identifier for the receiving station he wanted to reach...
The operator at that station would recognise his identifier code and start listening to the morse code message coming through.

I would expect it to be one of those 2 methods... maybe some one else on here can offer another suggestion :)

ahhhhh the good ol' days of single wire and Earth return ;)Dave
 
  • #3
I think it was a single cable, so first option is excluded.
 

1. How does a telegraph work?

The telegraph works by sending electrical signals through a wire to transmit a message. A person would use a key or switch to tap the signal in a specific pattern, which would then be received by another telegraph machine and translated into letters or words.

2. What is the history of the telegraph?

The telegraph was invented in the early 19th century by Samuel Morse. It revolutionized long-distance communication and played a crucial role in the expansion of railways and businesses. It was eventually replaced by the telephone and further advancements in technology.

3. How was the telegraph used for control during the Industrial Revolution?

The telegraph was used for control during the Industrial Revolution by allowing businesses to communicate quickly and efficiently with remote factories and workers. It also helped with the coordination of trains and other transportation systems, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.

4. What advancements have been made in telegraph technology?

Since its invention, the telegraph has undergone many advancements. The most significant was the development of the teleprinter, which allowed messages to be printed out rather than manually decoded. Today, telegraph technology has been replaced by electronic communication methods such as email and text messaging.

5. How did the telegraph shape communication and technology in modern times?

The telegraph played a crucial role in shaping modern communication and technology. It paved the way for further advancements in long-distance communication and set the foundation for the development of the telephone, radio, and the internet. It also played a significant role in the growth of global businesses and international relations.

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