11-07-2024:
Mark, a note to let you know how much I enjoyed
your March 2024, QST article for using an open
power relay for rf switching. I used a similar
relay in an swr null meter by Paul Chriistensen
February 2010 QST, which I modified to handle
full power. I like your idea of being able to
switch an antenna analyzer in and out easily.
Great article and terrific website. 73 Hugo
Kleinhans III, KB2VZI, Long Valley New Jersey.
03-08-2024 email:
I just got to my March
2024 QST Magazine. I loved the cover… antennas
are cool, but every now and then you need some
hardware. Like you I figured if Harris can use
relays in an AM rig… so can I. I have never had
one get dirty and need dressing. However, now I
feel inferior as my plans have these in the
open… but it’s hard to shield ladder line, and I
have a bunch of that… so a box doesn’t add much.
I admire the extra screws and braid. Guess I
need to up my design. I had considered that….
But thought “who would do that?” Now I know, and
I guess I have too also...
Fred Bomgartner K0FMT, Elizabeth, Colorado.
03-01-2024 email:
Hi Mark, I got
a kick out of seeing the cover of the March 2024
"QST" Magazine. I began my training as an
industrial electrician in 1974 and that was when
I began working with these kinds of relays,
mostly made by Square D and also Allen-Bradley..
When I became a Novice in 1981, I had bought a
used pair of Hallicrafters rigs - an HT-32B
Transmitter and an SX-115 receiver. I made my
own antenna changeover relay, using a relay
similar to the one pictured on the cover of
"QST." The relay that I used was a single-pole,
double-throw Square D relay and it used 120 VAC
control voltage from the HT-32B's relay. It
worked FB! In my work as an industrial
electrician, I "graduated" from relay & limit
switch control to control using PLCs
(programmable logic controllers). I am now
retired, after working as an industrial
electrician for 40+ years. Take care...73 de
Brad, N9EN