[Elecraft] K3 Variable amp keying delay >>not long enough!!??

[David Cutter]

I would be tempted to replace the 120VAC relay with a dc relay and key it 
directly from the rig.  Don't forget to fit a diode across it to squash the 
back emf.  This may have other ramifications and might not be this simple, 
but it's well worth consideration.

David
G3UNA


The FAQ for the K3 promised a 0-50 ms amp keying delay.  We got only 0-20 ms 
in the latest release.    I don't think 20 ms is enough in my case, based on 
my primitive research.  Several "experts" have said mine might need as much 
as 30-35 ms.  My amp's relay is a 30 yr old Potter & Brumfield open frame 
model with a 120vac  coil.

To make things worse, since the K3 will not switch 120vac, I must use 
another relay with a 12vdc coil in the line between the K3 and the amp, 
which in turn pulls in the P&B relay.  This exacerbates the matter by taking 
even more time, and I'm afraid to try anything for fear it will damage the 
K3 and the amp.  Am I wrong??  Anyone care to comment??

One of the many reasons I bought the K3 was to be able to operate at least 
semi break in CW and VOX with my old amp without hot switching, by virtue of 
having ample switching delay.  I've waited months for the feature and am 
disappointed..

However, I hasten to add this:  As a K2 user/owner/builder, I expected much 
in the K3.  I got much more than I expected.  I gave up a nice Icom Pro 3 
for the K3 and don't miss the Pro 3 one iota.  The K3 is unbelievable in 
what it can do and how superbly it does it. And getting new firmware is 
icing on the cake.

But I sure wish I had 0-50ms amp delay capability!  How about it, Wayne?

George, N4YM

K2 # 4758
K3 # 340