Bob -
Yeah, but I spend a LOT more time listening than I do transmitting. The receiver(s) are on just
about all day, the transmitter only for an hour or so. So individual control is still useful. It's
not 'carrying the current' that kills the contacts, as long as they are properly rated. One problem
comes at 'turn on' when the contacts happen to close at the peak of the AC waveform. AND when the
contacts open, the power transformer primary inductance tries to keep current flowing by 'kicking
back' it's stored charge.
The handiest controller that I have found is for computer users (almost as important to us hams as
the audio guys!) This is a strip with six individually switched outlets. A flat box designed to
sit under a CRT monitor with the switches (with lights!) across the front, and AC sockets across the
back.
Certainly your technique applies after the switch 'dies' especially in the 'open' position. This is
usually the result of a mechanical failure. More common failure mode is the 'Off' situation, which
often results in contacts welded together, eliminating the need for the jumper wire!! :-)
73, Garey - K4OAH
Glen Allen, VA
Drake 2-B, 2-C/2-NT, 4-A, 4-B, C-Line
and TR-4/C Service Supplement CDs
<www.k4oah.com>
Bob Spooner wrote:
Using a switched outlet strip with equipment having a separate power supply
you can go even further by bypassing the power switch entirely and hard
wiring the supply on. Then the contacts don't have to carry the startup
surge even while closed.
73,
Bob AD3K
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