[Elecraft] K3S poor CW keying further investigation

[Bob McGraw K4TAX]

Gunny et al:

The issue with power distribution strips for DC is resistance. Every 
contact or connection in the path adds some value of resistance.  Using 
Ohms law, where E = IR, we see that more resistance = more voltage 
drop.  This includes the resistance of the DC power cable and any 
contact arrangements in the path. Ideally, there should be no voltage 
change at the radio between receive and transmit.

I have found these power strips may be "rated" for 20 amps, but they 
will always add some value of resistance at every contact point.  I do 
not recommend using any  model, brand or make DC power strip to supply 
DC to a radio.  Thus I always connect the radio direct to the power 
supply terminals.    I always suggest using proper size ring terminals, 
or PowerPole connectors which are properly crimped using a correct 
crimping tool.   A crimping tool is not pliers or the like, which if 
used, I refer to "mash on" connections.   I also sweat solder mine after 
crimping as well.   The crimp plus solder method is not recommended by 
the airline industry or NASA.  I doubt if my radios will be "flying off 
of the desk" or being launched into space any time in my lifetime.  HI  HI

On DC Cables.   Usually #12 AWG wire and a length of 3 ft or less is 
suitable for 100 watt radios.   If it is necessary to have longer DC 
power cables, then I suggest using #10 AWG for lengths of over 3 ft but 
less than 10 ft.   If you need power cables over 10 ft, I'd consider 
changing my installation.   The reason is that larger cables are 
difficult to use, move, and attach connectors reliably behind a radio.

So to answer you question "is it safe........" yes, but there are better 
ways to handle DC power distribution.

Clean and stable DC at the radio is the objective.

73

Bob, K4TAX

On 4/25/2020 9:15 AM, Don Schroder wrote:
>
> Bob,
>
> Is it safe to run my K2 using Anderson Power Pole connections, and/or 
> RigRunner equipment?
>
> For my info, what is the reason for NOT using them?
>
> I’m rewiring, and I want to do it right!
>
> Gunny, KE0PVQ
>
> Sent from Mail <https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=550986> for 
> Windows 10
>
>