This is how S-meters and RF Gain controls have worked since they were first introduced. Turning down the RF gain simulates the automatic gain control (agc) action that reduces the gain to keep the audio levels about the same. That's why then noise level comes up when you tune to an unused frequency.
IF you want that action in the K3, get the P3. It displays the relative level of signals cross a section of the band independent of the RF gain. And it will give you signal level measurements in -dBm rather than simple S-units. BTW, a little aside that is somewhat humorous today but which illustrates how an S-meter is expected to work, an early low-cost National receiver (early 1930's IIRC) did not have an S-meter. It's gain control was calibrated in S-units: 1 at maximum gain and 9 at minimum gain. The operator set the volume for his accustomed listening level and read the signal strength from the pointer on the gain control knob. Clearly, a more complicated S-meter system can be created that will not be affected by the setting of the gain controls, but I wonder how many want to pay a little extra for it instead of getting a display like the P3? 73 Ron AC7AC -----Original Message----- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Edward Dickinson III Sent: Monday, March 04, 2013 11:25 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] S-Meter I think I like the idea. Dick - KA5KKT _____ I noticed Ten Tec has changed the operation of the s-meter on the Eagle, Omni 7, and the Orion 2. The meter now does not deflect to the right when the RF gain is turned down, but continues to operate normally giving readings of weaker signals. Someone explained to me one time there was a reason for having the s-meter configured to deflect to the right when the RF gain is turned back, but in my mind I would like to see the RF gain ride the signals instead of deflecting. What do you think? Toby W4CAK ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
