[Johnson] Valiant key voltage

[Rodger]

Joe,

The Valiant uses grid block keying and as I recall open circuit is near 
-220 volts.  But it is sourced from a 47K resistor off the -245 volt 
bias line so any current draw will drop it quickly.  So it is safe for 
you and electronic keyers designed for grid block keying BUT it will 
give you a bit of a "tickle" if you get across the open contacts.  I 
remember that from my novice days when I was using a straight key 
instead of a keyer.  In those early teenage days before coffee it was a 
fast way to become quickly alert in the morning when I became careless.

Some of the older Johnson rigs are questionable for use with some modern 
keyers.  I blew the keying transistor in an MFJ keyer that supposedly 
was capable of handling a Viking 1. 

Rodger WQ9E

Joe Roth wrote:
> What is the keying voltage supposed to be on the PTT line to ground for the Johnson Valiant?
> Joe 
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