[TenTec] Orion and QSK-5 Switch

[Kim Elmore]

I have a very early AL-80A (S/N 0095) in which I also had a very 
early internal QSK-5 switch (S/N 0005). I had similar problems with 
it, but finally got it under control by increasing the reverse bias 
current in the PIN diodes. However, about a year ago, the  old 
internal QSK-5 finally developed a non-repairable problem, so I 
purchased the new version of the internal QSK-5 switch. Its operation 
has been absolutely flawless from the moment I installed it.

At least for me, it's been free of any problems.

Kim N5OP

At 10:33 AM 8/10/2012, you wrote:
>Years ago I tried to get the QSK-5 to play with my Omni VI+ and an Ameritron
>Amp, which also had a slow open-frame TR-relay.  I started buying
>replacement protection lamps by the dozens.  I never got it to work.
>
>In my opinion, the best thing to do is to swap out the old relay circuitry
>in the Amp for a 12v circuitry, and then use a 12v Vacuum relay.  Actually
>you will need a couple of relays.  It's a lot of work but probably a better
>solution than the QSK-5. IMHO
>
>MFJ sells two models of inexpensive vacuum relays:  408-8100 (DPST-NO), and
>408-8500 (DPST - one pole NO, one pole NC).  Use an open collector
>transistor to keyed from the TX OUT signal to key the relay.  Use a small
>reed relay to send the TX EN signal back to the transceiver.
>
>73
>Rick, DJ0IP