Yes, Merv - memories! Some tubes must be operated in the upright position and I recall the permissible orientations being one of the specs one would find on the mfgr's data sheet.
Brian - thinking about the aesthetics of standing the KPA500 on its side gives me a headache, Hi! I have always found that I do my best work (or play) when I'm in an environment that looks good to me. Have you considered a "bridge"? I often use one at the operating position. I'm talking about a simple "U" shaped affair made out of some 1x12 wood - pine or whatever's handy. A vertical section of the plank at each end holding a horizontal section that passes over the K3/P3 combo. All you need is a bit of plank from the local shop, a saw, a few screws and a screwdriver. For the weight of the KPA500, you might splurge on some right-angle brackets to support the join between the uprights and the ends that elevate the horizontal span. I didn't bother on mine because I used long screws that go well down into the vertical segments. Because I'm a dedicated brass-pounder I have one on my desk that elevates the K3, KPA500 and P3 enough to allow me to put my mechanical keys under the rigs. That lifts them up so I don't need to use the tilt-stands and can comfortably look straight on at them. It masks for a very neat, clean installation. 73, Ron AC7AC -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Merv Schweigert Sent: Thursday, October 06, 2011 8:19 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Positioning of the KPA500 Seems there could be a problem with the grids in the tubes sagging and touching the plate if not operated in the proper position, I do know that the 866A rectifiers will not work, the mercury will puddle on the sides and cause arcs, they need to be operated vertical. :-) Good ole days eh? K9FD/KH6 ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
