[Elecraft] DeoxIt and/or ProGold useage

[Don Wilhelm]

I did not really want to get into this discussion, but I now feel moved 
to make a few observations.

First, I don't believe the use of DeoxIT /ProGold will hurt anything 
*if* used properly.  I would not use DeoxIT on gold connectors or the 
ProGold on tin connectors - the effects are different.

Secondly, I observe that the copied report is dealing only with thin 
gold flashed connectors, specifically DIN connectors, and then only 
after the gold flash has been worn off.  I would not expect similar 
conditions to occur in a K3 (or K2) where the connectors are more or 
less permanent.  Yes, the temperature cycling may cause some wear, but 
most K3s will not be subjected to temperature extremes nor frequent 
cycles.  The report did not state where these connectors were used, and 
I can only imagine a rather severe environment such as that which field 
equipment may encounter.  I can understand that vibration and 
heavy-handed use may create problems.  The omitted data and information 
about the conditions may be as important as the report itself in 
determining the severity of concern.

I have had considerable experience with the K2 and with much IBM 
equipment, including both mainframes and PCs plus a lot of their 
terminal equipment, and have never encountered (nor heard of) a problem 
that could be attributed to fretting of the contact surfaces (and I 
worked in an assurance/testing group that focused on just such 
reliability issues).

In conclusion, I really don't think it is necessary, but neither do I 
think it will do any harm if properly applied - just remember, a little 
bit goes a long way.

73,
Don W3FPR

Mike B wrote:
> Since I was one of those who brought up the DeoxIT / ProGold usage, I'd like to
> post the following report I received from another list member.  I hope he
> doesn't mind, as he'll remain nameless, and I've removed a thing or two from the
> report which might identify his major aerospace company.  I found the report
> rather illuminating.
>
>