[Elecraft] K1 power disconnect

[Morrow, Michael A.]

Steve Jackson wrote:

> I installed an in-line, polarized, miniature shrouded power 
> connector on my KBT1 so I could easily remove it.  I am fairly
> certain these are AMP Mate-n-Lok connectors...
> 
> No need to mess with the PC board.

Hi Steve,

I know that an in-line connector would work fine.  But it seems to me that
the idea solution would be to have a small polarized two-pin male connector
like that used for the speaker connector, permanently mounted on the RF PCB
near the power switch.  There's plenty of PCB real-estate there to
accommodate such a connector.  Then, when the KBT1 is removed, there'd be no
power lead of any sort still floating around loose in the K1 box.  The only
potential problem of using a connector identical to the one used for the
speaker is that it is possible to partially make a connection with the
terminals reversed, if you try hard enough.

> I think this should be a standard part of the KBT1, actually.

I very much do too, and I know others who do.  The KBT1 has its place in
usefulness, but most of the time I don't want it in my K1 box.
 
> Might add a buck or so to the cost, but well worth it.  Eric?  Wayne?

What ever it would have cost to have a connector standard in the KBT1 kit,
I'd have been happy to pay double!

> Of course, you will have to use good technique installing 
> them to account for the mechanical integrity of an unsupported
> inline connector on small-gauge wiring...

Which is yet another good reason why one side of the connection should be
firmly planted on the RF PCB.

73,
Mike / KK5F