[Elecraft] How to turn off the KPA500?

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

That's a very legitimate question Fred.

With modern gear containing processors (like the KPA500, K3, etc.), it's
always a good idea to shut it down using the front-panel power switch. This
ensures that the processor gets to do an "orderly" shut down, just as it's
always good to shut down a pc using the keyboard instead of just "pulling
the plug".

There is a very small current drain after it is shut down. That's the
current required to keep the logic alive so it can detect when you press the
POWER button to turn it on again. That's the same sort of drain your TV,
cable box, etc., all have when supposedly "off". Switching off the power on
the back panel will stop that drain if it's of concern to you. 

73,

Ron AC7AC


-----Original Message-----

At the risk of embarassing myself I am curious as to how folks are tuning
off
their KPA500. That is, do you just use the front panal button or both the
front panel botton and the rear panel rocker switch, once the fan stops?

I understand the need for both, that the fan won't run and deplete the power
supply without power from the rear rocker switch. But are people leaving the
rear switch on when done for the night?

Also, should we run the KPA500 through a surge protector? With the current
draw, it would probably be a dedicated surge protector. At the moment I have
it plugged directly into the wall. All my other equipment, except an Alpha
that uses 230v, is surge protected. i unplug the Alpha when off air for a
long time or when an electrical storm is brewing.

Not a big issue. Just curious what is the best operating practice here.

Fred, K3BHX