[Elecraft] static buildup on antennas

[Don Wilhelm]

That same thing can be done almost automatically with relays (and a 
little thoughtful design).  My in-shack relay switching system selects 
between 3 inbound feedlines and routes them to one of 3 transceivers.  
The K3 gets the 1st priority choice, and the 2nd transceiver (either the 
KX3 or the FT-847) gets the 2nd choice.  The 3rd choice is routed either 
to an auxiliary transceiver or to the workbench location (usually the 
workbench).  When the relay power is turned off or no antenna is 
selected for either transceiver, the input is connected to a dummy load.

That is not to diminish the knife switch solution - while it is manual, 
it works, and works very well.  That takes me back to my novice days 
when the T-R switch was a knife switch.  Sometimes simplest is the best.

73,
Don W3FPR.


On 9/11/2012 8:07 PM, Dr. William J. Schmidt, II wrote:
> In a related matter, I recently ran across a bountiful supply of new design,
> high amperage, reasonably priced knife switches on eBay.  If you make the
> switched conductor the radio and the two stationary terminals "Antenna" and
> "Ground", it's trivial to disconnect your antenna/ Set the input of your
> radio to ground for storms.  Search for "Knife Disconnect Switch".
>
>
> Dr. William J. Schmidt - K9HZ / J68HZ/ 8P6HK/ ZF2HZ
>