[Elecraft] SB-200 Amplifier Keying

[Clark L. Stewart]

At 12:59 AM 5/31/03 -0400, WB6PKB wrote:
>I have a Heathkit SB200 amplifier, and I have been told that you cannot use
>it with modern rigs.  First, is this true, and why?  Can some 
>modifications be
>made so that I could use it with my K2?
>
>Dan Flores  WB6PKB

Dan,

      Your SB-200 amplifier's keying relay requires that the transceiver 
key 135 volts at about 3 AMPS.  This is WAY more than most modern rigs with 
solid-state keying circuits can handle.

      Here is a company called Harbach Electronics that sells a mod kit for 
your SB-200 that lets the transceiver only key ONE volt at 1.4 MILLIAMPS!

<http://www.harbachelectronics.com/>

      The kit you need is the SK-201 module and sells for $23.  From the 
home page above, click on SB-200 in the left hand frame and scroll down the 
new page.

      However, the guy who runs this company now, W8CQ, is moving to 
Michigan.  So, I would make the order ASAP in hopes he can get it out to 
you before he moves.

      There are probably other companies who make a similar product but 
this is the only one I am familiar with.  Hope this helps.

73, Clark, W8TN