[Elecraft] KPA500 AC power

[Jack Brindle]

Yes. The current draw when running at 220V will be half that needed for 110V, which means the heat losses in the power cord and wall wiring will be cut by about one-fourth. This also means the voltage drop on the power cord and wall wiring will be much less at 220V.
So, there is a pretty good advantage to running the amplifier at 220V. Having said that, I wasn’t willing to go through the trouble to add 220V outlets to my workshop, so my KPA500s run on 110V. You will hear many folks saying they run the KPA500 just fine at that voltage.
Generally if the lights blink when you key the radio it is a good indicator that the wall wiring is too small. In that case you may want to have the electrician install the higher-voltage line. From experience I know that changing out wall wiring is a major effort involving wall patching.

Basically, if you want to go through the trouble, go for it. Otherwise enjoy your KPA500 at 110V.

73 and enjoy the KPA500!
Jack, W6FB



> On Dec 12, 2018, at 4:13 PM, Tom Berry <tberry1 at triad.rr.com> wrote:
> 
> Is there any advantage to use 220 V over 110 V on the KPA500?
> 
> Is it worth having an electrician come to the house and install a 220 V outlet for it?
> 
> 
> Thanks
> 
> Tom AA4VV
> 
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