PowerPoles are not fragile, when correctly assembled/soldered. I think there is an issue, either with your assembly to the lead or possibly with the units mounted on the PCB in the K3 (it has been known to be in the K3).
Although I crimp all mine (well worth getting the West Mountain Radio Deluxe crimp tool if your going to use a lot of APPs) I have to use a reasonable force to separate them. At least as much as you'd use to separate a molex (ignoring the clips of course). They will not separate by accident. The main issue with soldering is solder running out the 'pot' onto the blade and preventing a good wipe-fit when plugged together. You can take the contact out of the housing to check it, but it requires a bit of care. You need a very small screwdriver (watch-makers), insert it under the blade at the front and lift, so the blade comes clear of the spring steel that is under the blade. Then pull the lead from the back and it should come apart with minor force. See http://www.arrl.org/files/file/Public%20Service/TrainingModules/Technical/Anderson%20powerpole.pdf for instructions and good pics. There is a tool available to do this (see Quicksilver Radio - http://qsradio.com/Powerpole%20Insertion%20Tool.jpg). 73 de David, M0XDF (K3 #174, P3 #108) I'm not associated with Quicksilver other than being a very satisfied customer. -- Always remember, half the people in the world are above average intelligence! > On 17 Feb 2015, at 14:58, Chris Hallinan <challi...@gmail.com> wrote: > > Hi list, > > I've noticed that almost every time I move my K3, it powers down. I > have little doubt it's the power pole connectors. I soldered them, > and I'm pretty good with a soldering iron. It seems to be plugged in > and fully seated. But why is it so fragile? I used the powerpole > connectors and contacts that came with my K3 kit. > > Has anyone else notice this phenomenon? Any advice? > > Thanks and 73, > > Chris > K1AY ______________________________________________________________ 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
