eHam

eHam Forums => CW => Topic started by: N4MJG on December 26, 2022, 04:02:06 PM

Title: spark key on kx2 radio
Post by: N4MJG on December 26, 2022, 04:02:06 PM
i have a question could i use my spark key into my kx2 radio  yes or no and why ?

73
Jackie
N4MJG
SKCC 7305 SINCE 2005
NAQCC 5233
Title: Re: spark key on kx2 radio
Post by: KM0U on December 26, 2022, 05:30:37 PM
Jackie, I don't know the answer but suggest you try looking into the Elecraft KX users' group for an answer to your question.  terry  km0u
Title: Re: spark key on kx2 radio
Post by: WA2EIO on December 26, 2022, 05:31:39 PM
While ii is called a "spark" key, it is just a straight key, and as such, should work fine with the radio.   From the photo on your e-ham page, it may be about the same size as the rig!
Title: Re: spark key on kx2 radio
Post by: K0RS on December 26, 2022, 09:49:08 PM
Don't forget to turn off the keyer in your KX2 via the menu.  You will still need an eighth inch stereo plug to the radio with the two conductors from the key wired to the tip and ground.  With a straight key the ring is unused.  I just wired a similar set-up for my KX3.  Not to use a straight key, but an external keyer.  To the radio, an external keyer looks exactly like a straight key.

Title: Re: spark key on kx2 radio
Post by: N4MJG on December 27, 2022, 05:38:04 AM
WHEN I ORDER THE SPARK KEY THE CABLE CAME WITH KEY. NOW I CAN'T SOLDER ANYMORE DUE MY RECENT STROKE BACK IN 2019 IT'S SUCK CAN'T DO MUCH SOLDERING ON MY LEFT HAND ! BUT THE HAM RADIO DOESN'T STOP ME DO FUN THING JUST CAN'T TOO MUCH STUFF SINCE I BECOME HADYCAPI PERSON SINCE I CAN'T DRIVE NOMORE IT SUCK SO I STUCK AT HOME !

73
Jackie
N4MJG
SKCC 7305 SINCE 2005
NAQCC 5233
General  LIC SINCE 2007
PREFER EQSL
Title: Re: spark key on kx2 radio
Post by: WA3SKN on December 27, 2022, 05:38:16 AM
The "spark key" is simply a momentary contact switch, and yes... you can use it as a "straight key".
Current draw will be minimal, and you will not need to replace the contacts as you needed to with the spark gap transmitters of old.

-Mike.
Title: Re: spark key on kx2 radio
Post by: K4WH on December 27, 2022, 08:26:36 AM

Marion, use send me a picture of the key, with the terminals showing ( where the wires will go ), and I will make you up a cable.  Please tell me how long it needs to be.  Instructions on how to use a Straight / Spark key will be in the Elecraft manual, which you can down load from their web page.  Email me at:   k4wh@arrl.net