[TowerTalk] Re: [FCG] Relays in RF usage

[R.Morris]

Mike Gilmer - N2MG wrote:
> These are the same type of Aromat relays (JW series)
> found in Array Solutions StackMatch boxes.
> 
> They are available at Digikey for, as Pete noted, ~$2 
> in small qty - SPDT, DPDT and various coil voltages.
> 
> Mike N2MG
> 
> N4ZR wrote:
> 
> 
>>At 02:25 PM 8/12/03 -0700, Jim Lux wrote:
>>
>>>Hopefully, too, the mfr has actually tested the 
>>>particular relay at RF rather than blindly scaling 
>>>from 60 Hz databook values.  If you're making 
>>>a thousand radios, it's worth it to do so.
> 
> 
> 
>>It's in this connection that I recall a post by 
>>W2VJN some years ago recounting tests of the relays 
>>used in their TopTen relay boxes.  Despite the fact 
>>that these 10A-rated relays are very small, and only 
>>cost about $2 each in small quantities, George told 
>>of successfully testing them repeatedly at full 
>>legal power.  Sort of undermines the big is best 
>>theory.
> 
> 
>>For details, check 
>>
> 
> http://lists.contesting.com/_towertalk/2000-May/030900.html
> 
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> 

Are not all relay specs for hot switching and with the load applied? I 
can't think where, in any antenna or pi-net circuit, that the relay does 
not switch "cold". Even QSK, with all the sequencing. Even the 
transceivers with band changes are not key-down. I replaced the TR relay 
in an Icom 735 with some Radio Shack look-alike, little reed thing, and 
it still works fine.

Does someone want to guess at the ratings "after contact". Used to be a 
spec on Dow-Keys of DB isolation, sure were smallish contacts for KW of 
AM(4kw?).