[Elecraft] [K3] Keyer Pause

[Donald Thompson]

On Sep 4, 2012, at 7:42 AM, Lee Trout <troutcm at gmail.com> wrote:

> ...I have noticed that my Begali is quite sensitive to dirty contacts.  On my
> Begali, intermittent operation is a sure sign the contacts need cleaning...
> 

It seems you're correct.  I switched to my hex key and the problem went away.  Back to Begali and it returned.  For example my call becomes KAJ.. and 73 becomes 7V as it delays on the dash.  
I never suspected the key since I have been using it with the CW Machine with no problems.   Perhaps one draws more current?  
Also, my K3 is in my new radio room, a finished family room 1/2 below grade and with much higher humidity, been from 45 to 70% as I run the dehumidifier.  Just wondering if this may be the cause.  The CW Machine is upstairs with AC and thus very low humidity.
Last,  how should I clean the contacts? I think with just a strip of paper but know I must be careful.  Also the Leonessa has the contacts stacked vertical with dash on bottom and hard to reach.

Thanks,
Don KA1KU