[Elecraft] K3 I/O Caution

[Matt Zilmer]

This worked for me too.  An added tip is one I got from Wayne when
experiencing RF feedback on PSK31:  Seat the two KIO3 rear panel
connector boards (3.5mm fems, and also the RCA / 1/4" phono) so that
there is a slight amount of interference with the screw-on panel. This
allows the grounds for the jacks to make best contact with the 3.5mm
plugs.  It takes a little jiggling to get the fit to come out just
right, but you need the jack bodies (sleeve is ground) to jut out just
a little bit to get proper contact.

matt, W6NIA

On Fri, 18 Jan 2008 08:11:12 -0500, you wrote:

>I've been having intermittent computer problems with the K3 connected 
>ever since installing the K3 on the operating desk.  The ultimate 
>disaster occurred during the RTTY Roundup when the computer shut itself 
>off and lost my log with approximately 1100 QSO's.  After making various 
>attempts to block RF from entering the computer, I ran across what 
>appears to be the solution.
>
>The DB9M connector on my serial cable used for K3 I/O had the standard 
>threaded studs installed.  These had to be removed to allow fitting to 
>the K3 I/O port with its own threaded studs.  With the studs removed, 
>the connectors mated, but nothing but friction to hold them together.  I 
>wondered if perhaps the shells were making intermittent contact.  I next 
>drilled through the connector body where the studs were removed and 
>inserted a spare pair of thumb screws that were left over from a DB9F 
>connector.  With these screwed into the K3's threaded studs to secure 
>the connectors, I've not had any further RF problems with the computer.