Some Begali keys used an alloy that caused the contacts to act like a diode, with a constant forward voltage drop. This caused problems with some, but not all, keyers, including my K2 internal keyer and a Logikey.
Cleaning and Deoxit did not help in this instance. I ordered replacement gold contacts for my Begali Magnetic Pro (not cheap) which completely solved the problem. I also have a newer Begali model which came with silver contacts and it did not display the problem. I suggest that with modern rigs that have very low currents in the key circuit that you only use silver or gold contacts. Regarding cleaning, I always use a business card and don't overdo it. On 9/4/2012 6:22 AM, Donald Thompson wrote: > > > On Sep 4, 2012, at 7:42 AM, Lee Trout <trou...@gmail.com> wrote: > >> ...I have noticed that my Begali is quite sensitive to dirty contacts. On >> my Begali, >> intermittent operation is a sure sign the contacts need cleaning... >> > > It seems you're correct. I switched to my hex key and the problem went away. > Back to > Begali and it returned. For example my call becomes KAJ.. and 73 becomes 7V > as it > delays on the dash. I never suspected the key since I have been using it with > the CW > Machine with no problems. Perhaps one draws more current? Also, my K3 is in > my new > radio room, a finished family room 1/2 below grade and with much higher > humidity, been > from 45 to 70% as I run the dehumidifier. Just wondering if this may be the > cause. > The CW Machine is upstairs with AC and thus very low humidity. Last, how > should I > clean the contacts? I think with just a strip of paper but know I must be > careful. > Also the Leonessa has the contacts stacked vertical with dash on bottom and > hard to > reach. > > Thanks, Don KA1KU -- Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ ______________________________________________________________ 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
