[Elecraft] K3 Front Panel Headphone Jack Problem

[Jim McDonald]

I wanted to avoid wear and tear on the jack and instead am using a Radio
Shack Stereo Audio Selector, which is a 3-way switch plugged into the rear
speaker jack.  I have my old, powered Sony computer speakers (which I like a
lot) and two different headphones plugged into the switch.

I just bought a 2-way switch that has three jacks at Amazon for $7.95, the
third jack being a yellow video jack.  That was much cheaper than the Radio
Shack switch, which is probably now discontinued.

The mini-phone jacks in the back on the KIO3 board seem fragile.  The plugs
don’t seem to seat securely, which is another reason I wanted to avoid using
them often.  (Maybe they would fit better of I had the plugs that K9YC
likes.)

Jim N7US



-----Original Message-----
Hi all,


I have been experiencing a problem with the front panel headphone jack.
Regardless of the ¼” plug used, I must put side pressure to get both audio
channels to function, and then the weight of the cord will cause the
connection to be lost again.  I realize the jack most likely needs
replacement and that is where my question comes in.

Has anyone had this issue and/or replaced one of these?  I can purchase the
part from Elecraft, but should I damage the DSP board, I’ll need to purchase
a new one.  Also, if Elecraft attempts a repair, and they are not
successful, again, I am on the hook for a new board, about $400.00.


I would like to be able to use the front panel jack, I know there is one on
the rear, but the convenience is not there.

So, if anyone has any hints or experience on replacing this part, I would
really like to hear from you.  I can’t imagine I am the only one having a
problem as this jack has rarely been used, until my current need came up.

Thanks to all in advance for your input.

Mark – WT6P