[Elecraft] [K3] Keyer Pause

[Vic K2VCO]

Some Begali keys used an alloy that caused the contacts to act like a diode, with a
constant forward voltage drop. This caused problems with some, but not all, keyers, 
including my K2 internal keyer and a Logikey.

Cleaning and Deoxit did not help in this instance. I ordered replacement gold contacts for
my Begali Magnetic Pro (not cheap) which completely solved the problem.

I also have a newer Begali model which came with silver contacts and it did not display
the problem.

I suggest that with modern rigs that have very low currents in the key circuit that you
only use silver or gold contacts.

Regarding cleaning, I always use a business card and don't overdo it.

On 9/4/2012 6:22 AM, Donald Thompson wrote:
>
>
> 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


-- 
Vic, K2VCO
Fresno CA
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/