[TenTec] Intermittent keying problem

[David Mays]

I am using an Orion II powered by an Astron 35M PS, a Titan III model 417A
and a TT 238B antenna tuner.  I can tune the O2 to any band and it keys and
works on either CW or SSB barefoot with no problem.  When I turn the T3 from
standby to operate in the QSK mode, sometimes the O2 will not key.  This is
an intermittent problem I have been chasing for several weeks.  There are
times the pair will work together flawlessly.

 

The keying loop in the O2 menu is turned on.  I have switched between loops
#1 and #2, moving and checking the cables for correct connections on each
end when I switch.

The cables are original from TT and a continuity check shows them to be
good.  I have also swapped these cables out trying another pair.

 

Two folks suggested I had a ground problem.  All equipment was tied to a
common ground except for the Astron.  I connected the minus lead of the PS
to the ground buss and for a while everything worked.  Then the intermittent
came back.  

 

Next I made up a new braided ground buss.  It runs from the minus terminal
of the PS, to the antenna tuner, on to the T3, O2 and is soldered to a #6
copper wire hooked to 3-8ft ground rods.  The total length of the ground bus
system is <10 feet to the 1st ground rod.

 

I have done a master reset on the O2 three times.  Sometimes this seems to
solve my intermittent ... until I really want the amp on.

 

I am open to any suggestions on or off the reflector.

 

Dave W8UI in WV