Mike:

This is very helpful, since I didn't know about the Ameritron external QSK
switch.

I'm also going to contact the individual from Ameritron that Alan suggested.

Again, as far as I can tell, the relays in the amp itself are working fine;
I'd just like to see if I can quiet things down a bit, or do something so
that the amp can be used in CW mode with as little relay clatter as
possible.

Tom Behler: KB8TYJ


-----Original Message-----
From: For blind ham radio operators [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Mike Ryan
Sent: Sunday, February 23, 2014 12:16 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Amplifier question

Tom:=20

Having owned the same amp for a couple of weeks now,=20 I have to say I'm
quite happy with its performance and not noisy relay.=20=

That said, you can either have some one assist you with perhaps a relay =
cleaning, look at w8ji web site to see if there's a relay substitution =
or=20
Simply purchase the external QSK switch from ameritron, which BTW, the =
811H can accommodate.=20 When you read down through the description of the
811H, it says the = external QSK option is available.=20 I would kind of
stay away from a solid state amp at the moment because = of the high cost.
I'd  really would spend the little budget you may have = in keeping that amp
running nicely.=20 If considering a solid state though, for the price, I'd
probably look at = the elecraft KPA-500 or go with something from SPe.=20
I'd also contact ameritron for there thoughts.=20

HTH for what its worth, LOL and 73:=20
Mike VO1AX =20

P S=20
I'm driving mine with an FT-102 and getting 600W keydown with 50W of =
drive.=20
So if you baby this thing a little and keep in mind the low price of =
811As, I think us owners of these little beauties should do fine.=20