[Elecraft] [KPA500] Rear power switch thread

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

Like the K3, the POWER switch on the KPA500 requires that mains voltage be
applied so the processor and front panel logic is "live". The difference is
that rear panel switch on the KPA500. It may be left on indefinitely. Like
the K3, there is a very small parasitic power drain required to keep the
front panel logic live so the front panel power switch will operate. 

It sounds like some Hams are taking the concept of keeping all parasitic
power drains in their homes to the minimum: unplugging TV sets, microwaves,
(newer) washing machines, etc., when they aren't actually in use to avoid
this parasitic drain. It does add up and totals a significant amount of the
electrical power demand, nationally. I would assume they are unplugging the
K3 and any other similar Ham gear as well. 

Personally, I simply kill the main supply power line to the station. That
does the same thing with one switch. 

73, 

Ron AC7AC

 

-----Original Message-----
I don't have a KPA500 and wondering what the deal is with turning off the 
back power switch.  Seems to me that if is was to be turned off every time 
that it would have been placed on the front.  I don't want to have to go 
around the back of my station every time I get up and leave.  Does it say in

the manual to turn it off?  Is there a difference in using that switch vs. 
turning off "power strip" feeding it?  This topic has been going on for a 
while.  What gives?

73, de Jim KG0KP