[Elecraft] KX3 - ERR KEY when using hand key

[Don Wilhelm]

Mike,

Plugging a mono plug into a stereo adapter will ground the ring contact 
of the adapter's stereo plug.
The ring contact of the end with the stereo jack will contact the shell 
(base) of the mono plug.

Holding either paddle contact grounded when you power on will cause an 
ERR PTT or KEY ERR message.

Easiest solution is to change the plug on the key to a stereo 1/8 inch 
plug.  Connect only to the tip and the shell.  You will be able to use 
it not only with the KX3, but also with other transceivers you might have.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 12/14/2018 8:18 AM, Mike Parkes wrote:
> Hi everyone. Trying to get set up here with a hand key for the first time
> with the KX3.
> I acquired a key that came with a 1/4" plug, so I thought I could buy an
> adapter that would take this down to a 1/8" plug and avoid having to solder
> anything. The 1/8" plug is stereo, and the meter shows that TIP is being
> keyed and the base and ring are common. Turning the rig on with the key
> plugged in throws a KEY ERR message. I am guessing the ring can't be common
> to the base of the plug for a hand key? Thanks, 73's Mike AB7RU