Trying to interface a transceiver built in 2003 with a amplifier built in 1969 can generate all kinds of problems. In the old days, the transceiver had a separate pair of relay contacts that were used to "key up" the amplifier. Today, that relay has been replaced with a surface mount transistor that can only switch 100 Ma at best. Plug in your SB-220 into that radio and puff! It’s time to call 1-800-FIXME.

The AmpKeyer is a small interface that will allow you to key that SB-220 amplifier with your new Icom, Kenwood, Yaesu or Ten Tec radios. Don’t have a SB-220. Not a problem with the AmpKeyer. It will work with ANY amplifier that I know of. Dentron, Heathkit, Hallicrafters, it makes no difference. New or old, the AmpKeyer keys them all.ampjup

The key line from your radio is coupled to the amplifier via a optical interface.

The AmpKeyer will switch up to 10 amps, (yup!) at 12 volts to ground. If you need a set of insulated contacts for use with the -130 volts bias Heathkit requires, the AmpKeyer can handle that too with its dry relay contacts. Why there’s even a grid blocked output if you ever need that too!

A built-in standby operate switch can control your amplifier if need be. Now you can leave your Heathkit SB-220 or SB-200 on all the time and let the AmpKeyer set the amplifier into standby condition. A front panel mounted LED lets you know what the status is of the amplifier.ampfronta

Three bright green LEDS let the operator know there is power to the AmpKeyer, if the amplifier is being keyed and the status of the standby/operate switch.

All connections to and from the radio and amplifier are RCA type jacks. The interface cables are easy to obtain from Radio Shack.

The AmpKey operates from any 8 to 18 volt supply either AC or DC input. The AmpKeyer will automatically set the polarity and the voltage.

The AmpKeyer comes fully assembled and ready to go.
 Each AmpKeyer is hand made right here in the United States of America