[Elecraft] K3 Break in with an amp question

[Bob Nielsen]

Ameritron sells a PIN diode switch assembly (http://www.ameritron.com/Product.php?productid=QSK-5) which can be used for this purpose.

Bob N7XY

On Mar 17, 2012, at 9:18 AM, Donehrlich at q.com wrote:

> The powercube is definitely a ham amplifier.  I know of at least one 
> owner who is very happy with the one he has but, then, he only operates SSB.
> 
> Most amps that use relay T/R switching (and that is *most* amps) do the 
> clickety-clack thing.  I know of failed relays that could not take the 
> abuse.  Your solution of using semi-breakin with an appropriate delay is 
> the only way to avoid this problem.  With my new KPA500 I no longer have 
> that problem but, with my previous Tokyo HyPower amp, I used a homebrew 
> PIN Diode switching system to do all of my T/R antenna switching with 
> all solid state circuitry but that is not a trivial exercise.
> 
> Don K7FJ
> 
> 
> 
> 
> On 3/17/2012 4:49 AM, goldtr8 at charter.net wrote:
>> I am attempting to slowly learn to work with CW but at first it is with
>> a computer program but I am not sure if that is relevant.
>> 
>> I understand the reason for break in as it allows for RX listening
>> between your TX in case someone it trying to contact your.
>> 
>> The issue is that when using VOX and with semi or full breakin when
>> using my amp the relays in the amp are clicking and clacking like crazy
>> which to me seems very abusive to the amp.    My solution has been to go
>> to semi break in and then set a long delay time so the amp and K3 stay
>> keyed.
>> 
>> The amp is an SGC powercube and I do have it wired to the K3 so it gets
>> a PTT signal.
>> 
>> Am I doing the right thing with the delay or are there other ways to
>> stop the amp from going nuts or is this just the nature of the beast.
>> 
>> 
>> ~73
>> Don
>> KD8NNU
>> 
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