[Elecraft] New KAT500 pics from the Visalia DX convention

[Ian White GM3SEK]

Dick Dievendorff wrote:
>I have that same "too busy" ACC connector problem with antenna & 
>bandpass filter switching, amp, PR-6, and PTT/FSK connection to a 
>microHAM device. I'm using a couple of layers of Y connector, dislike 
>the solution, and I have ideas to resolve that problem somehow.
>

One solution is to build a "breakout box" to move all of these 
interconnection problems away from the K3 itself. Since I also wanted to 
make a shallow base to raise the K3 about 1.5 inches above the table, 
both of these functions have been combined to make a "breakout base" on 
which the K3 stands.

A short 15-way cable connects to the ACC socket of the K3, and all of 
those 15 lines are fanned out to a stripboard patch panel inside the 
base unit.  Another short cable connects the switched 12V output from 
the K3.

All of the input and output signals that would otherwise go to the ACC 
connector are now routed to individual connectors on the 10in wide rear 
panel of the "breakout base". These currently include FSK input from the 
PC, PA inhibit from the SteppIR, additional band data outputs and three 
12V outputs switched by the K3.

This will perpetually be a work in progress, modified to meet current 
needs. For example, when an SSPA came on the scene, it was very easy to 
tap into all the necessary control and band data lines, and gather them 
into a custom umbilical cable.

One day I shall complete the front panel of this unit, which currently 
stands empty. But, like Dick...

>Unfortunately I have more ideas than time to implement them.


-- 

73 from Ian GM3SEK
http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek