Those Astrons ... The SS-30M, I took the cover off and went, "YUK!" It is a switching power supply and my first thought is to treat it like I treat computer power supplies .... I liked it because it small and light weight and it fit perfect in my portable station container.
As for the VS-50M, today is the first time I have turned it on in 15 years and the problem there was simply oxidation on the voltage control pot. A couple of squirts of DeOxit and it is working as it should. As a precaution I loosened and then tightened all the screws on the caps and regulator board as other have mentioned. I purchased it used. I also have an Astron RS-12 that serves to power shack accessories. I purchased it used 10 years ago to replace a homebrew power supply (1983 ARRL handbook page 5-22) that took a lightening hit (fixed it). That SS-30M, I guess it may have been a bit light for running the K3. I have read everyone's posts and been to the links. Thanks all, it's was educating. Now 20 CW is wide open over the pole. 73, Mike WA5POK ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
