[Elecraft] Routine Shutdown of KPA500: Use Front or Back Panel Switch?

[Fred Jensen]

On 7/9/2013 4:14 PM, PGrig wrote:

> If you're turning the amp off (e.g., at the end of an operating session), must you
> turn off the switch on the back panel (assuming the fan has quit running) or is it OK simply
> to use the front panel switch for such shutdowns, leaving the back panel switch
> ON most of the time?

Just punch the front panel button and leave.  I've been doing it for a 
couple of years, works great.  I unplug it when we're going to be gone 
for awhile.

Does the unit, after the fan has stopped, draw any power
> when the back panel switch is ON and the front panel switch is OFF?

Probably, like everything else electrical these days, they just go to 
sleep [don't know if they dream], but I think it's minimal at worst and 
negligible most likely.  I unplug all of my stuff when we're leaving for 
awhile just for additional lightning protection.  We get our water from 
a well, 4HP pump, that overrides all the other little things in the 
house except the A/C and oven in terms of electricity consumption.
>
> I'm assuming that the back panel switch is for use when wanting to kill power to
> the chassis altogether, e.g., when servicing it.

No! No! NO!! If you are going to service any part inside with any part 
of the cover off, you unplug it!  I don't really know what the back 
switch is for, I use the front switch and the plug, mainly because 
that's what I can get to easily and what I understand.  I've never had 
the cover off my KPA500 after I put it together, but believe me, if I 
ever go in there for something, the plug will be out.

The DC voltages in the KPA500 are in the 70V range, probably won't kill 
you but it *will* get your attention, however the 120/240VAC is another 
matter.  We want you around and on the air Paul, unplug it.

73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the 2013 Cal QSO Party 5-6 Oct 2013
- www.cqp.org