[Elecraft] Using Dual Switched Radios with KAT500 Tuner

[Phil Hystad]

I would like to consider using my KAT500 tuner in a configuration switched between two radios.  One of them is my K3 and the other is my Icom 706.

My normal configuration is a full K-Line:

         K3/P3 —> KPA500 —> KAT500 —> Antennas

This K-Line configuration is by the book full Elecraft cabling setup.

My alternate configuration is the Icom IC-706:

          IC-706  —> KAT500 —> Antennas

No amplifier in this configuration.

My first thought is that my 706 will be RF connected to the KAT500 only — no other cabling as I am using with the K-Line.  While using the 706 the K3/P3-KPA500 will be switched off (front panel switch for KPA500).

I am thinking of using RF sensing for the frequency, band detection and thus switching to the right antenna by the KAT500 but I am not sure if this will work.  Manually switching is OK but would rather make use of auto-switched by KAT500.

Advice??  Is there anything wrong with this idea and my operating plan with the 706?  All cabling RF/Digital between K-Line and KAT500 will be left connected with the exception that RF input is actually physically switched between the K-Line and the 706 (only one connected to KAT500 at a time).

73, phil, K7PEH