Larry KN8N posted:
"I recently acquired a KX2 and use it on CW only.
I noticed that it does get warm.
Are the aftermarket heat sinks needed?"
Hi Larry, I'm Howie WA4PSC and my company Pro Audio Engineering makes the Kx22
Heatsink for the Elecraft KX2. The reason I make the original prototype as
because when I was contesting with the KX2 at Field Day at 10W in CW the right
end plate got REALLY warm. I reasoned that as popular as digital modes were
becoming this problem would be exacerbated, so a heatsink would be a useful
addition to what was already my favorite and amazing portable rig.
Does the KX2 when operated out of direct sun in CW absolutely need a heatsink?
No. Will it cut power back from 10W (or 12/15W) when operating FT8 for a
while, even out of direct sun? Yes.
If you follow Elecraft's power recommendations you do not need a heatsink, and
from the Owner's Manual A5 those recommendations are:
-------------------------------------------
80-17 meters, 10 W PEP max (+/- 1 dB); 12 and 10 meters, 8 W PEP max (+/- 1 dB).
Recommended transmit duty cycle: 50%, all modes. (If power amplifier
temperature or
current drain is too high, power will automatically be reduced.)
NOTE: When using over 5 W in SSB, DATA-A and AFSK-A modes, the
recommended supply voltage is 12 V or higher to minimize transmit
intermodulation
products. Higher power with lower voltages should be used only when necessary.
------------------------------------------
The KX2 is a great rig, it displaced my KX3 as the go-to for portable ops. I
did install a heatsink and have not had a power reduction event since, of
course for me the price was right.
I apologize to those who find this post an advertisement, but I endeavor to
keep all the content factual.
Also, these Elecraft KX-series posts would be right at home in the
[email protected] group where 6500+ of us rabid KX and KH fans are. Come
join us!
Cheers & 73,
Howie / WA4PSC
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