[Elecraft] Straight Key in parallel with PC keying

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> I have been reluctant to simply parallel the two by means of a Y
> cable for fear that sending with the straight key would place a
> direct short across the output of the winkeyer and wreak havoc on my
> winkeyer. Am I being unduly concerned??

Yes, you are being overly concerned <G>.

The CW output of all microHAM keyers is an open collector NPN
transistor capable of handling +48V DC and at least 100 mA.  Unless
your key generated a negative voltage when it is open, there is no
issue connecting a straight key directly in parallel with the CW
output of any microHAM keyer.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV


On 9/12/2013 12:54 PM, K4GM-George wrote:
> Currently I manually switch between PC keying via a Microham Winkeyer
> which keys via N1MM and a straight key by unplugging and re-plugging in
> the back of the radio.  I have been reluctant to simply parallel the two
> by means of a Y cable for fear that sending with the straight key would
> place a direct short across the output of the winkeyer and wreak havoc
> on my winkeyer.   Am I being unduly concerned??  Or is there enough
> isolation built into the Winkeyer so that all will be well??   If I
> could use a Y cable I would have the PC, the paddle, and the straight
> key all available all the time which would be great.   Thanks in advance
> to all who respond.
>
> 73, George K4GM
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