[Elecraft] KX3 - ERR KEY when using hand key

[Walter Underwood]

If you don’t want to change the plug on the key, a stereo to mono splitter will also work. The left channel is connected to the tip.

wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog)

> On Dec 14, 2018, at 6:06 AM, Don Wilhelm <donwilh at embarqmail.com> wrote:
> 
> 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
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