Re: [Elecraft] K3 Erratic SSB Power Output (G8DX)
Hi Roger I do not have the P3 and I'm not equipped to test the transverter output at the moment. With the KPA turned off (power below 12w) the problem is still present. Also, just now when trying to operate on 10m CW, the issue was there - I thought CW was ok, but now it appears not. 73 Jack From: Roger Crofts ro...@monitorsensors.com To: elecraft reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, 24 July 2013, 23:57 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Erratic SSB Power Output (G8DX) I had a look at Jack's video showing the power fluctuations. They are quite rapid and continuous. If they stay like that, it will be a big help in tracking down the problem. The tx signal can be traced through the various stages with an oscilloscope to find where the steady signal begins the fluctuations. In my case, the darn fault would always disappear just when I was ready to start! However there are a few simple tests to do, before taking the covers off. Turn the power down to 12 watts or less. Do the fluctuations disappear? If so, problem is in the 100watt Amp. If not, 100watt Amp is eliminated. Are the fluctuations present at the transverter output? I have the 2meter transverter installed. So in my case, I only needed to look at the 2 meter output. If fluctuations are here, then the LPA board can be eliminated. There is also a method to look at the tx signal on the P3. It is described in the manual. Are the fluctuations present at this intermediate point? I do understand your frustration, Jack. There was a point when I was about to chuck my K3 in the trash. I'm glad I persevered and now I have a superb radio. 73 Roger, VK4YB __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 Erratic SSB Power Output (G8DX)
Jack, Each time I have had problems with my K3, including the one described by yourself, I have fixed it by removing the front panel, carefully cleaning all connector contacts and re-assembling. I put a thin layer of 'Contralube' (Maplins) on the connector pins which not only keeps the connector surfaces in good condition but also reduces the amount of force needed to remove the panel. I can do it with my thumbs now and don't have to use the little screw driver slot. Remember to remove that screw on the 3-D block on the lower left side. Good luck! Tom G3OLB __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Erratic SSB Power Output (G8DX)
I had a look at Jack's video showing the power fluctuations. They are quite rapid and continuous. If they stay like that, it will be a big help in tracking down the problem. The tx signal can be traced through the various stages with an oscilloscope to find where the steady signal begins the fluctuations. In my case, the darn fault would always disappear just when I was ready to start! However there are a few simple tests to do, before taking the covers off. Turn the power down to 12 watts or less. Do the fluctuations disappear? If so, problem is in the 100watt Amp. If not, 100watt Amp is eliminated. Are the fluctuations present at the transverter output? I have the 2meter transverter installed. So in my case, I only needed to look at the 2 meter output. If fluctuations are here, then the LPA board can be eliminated. There is also a method to look at the tx signal on the P3. It is described in the manual. Are the fluctuations present at this intermediate point? I do understand your frustration, Jack. There was a point when I was about to chuck my K3 in the trash. I'm glad I persevered and now I have a superb radio. 73 Roger, VK4YB __ 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
