Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Rick Bates, NK7I]

It's not elegant but I just finished a rack/table using a butcher block 
top (Home Depot) and angle stock on the front inside of the 2x2 wooden 
legs to mount the p/s and a repeater I use for IRLP (duplexer later, one 
pieces at a time).  The table top is stained and matches the height of 
the desk so there is almost a continuous surface.   Five coats of poly 
should suffice to seal it.  More angle stock from the front to back legs 
will support/share the weight for each item, so it's not entirely held 
by the front.


The K3, P3 and KPA1500 will sit on the desk within reach, just below the 
50" monitor (4K TV) mounted to the wall (swing/tilt mount).  The KPA1500 
amp p/s will sit on the table top but may end up in the rack later.  The 
KAT500/KPA500 will be nearby as backup, easily added if needed.


The next step is to add copper pipe along the equipment space to behind 
the desk for equipment bonding to ground, then add a shelf on either 
side of the monitor to hang speakers, rotor and SteppIR controllers and 
the control head of a dual band with some books too.  (There is also a 
small frig and microwave next to the desk.)  Then put a 36x36" piece of 
plywood on the wall (that wide so it can be well anchored by the 16" on 
center studs) for dual band, 6M FM radio and perhaps more later.


The entire station (and network) is all going to run from a UPS, which 
only has to last long enough for the generator to kick in (about 40 
seconds) so nothing drops out during an outage (except the large amp, on 
240V).


Most of the wiring will be hidden by desk or monitor, except the space 
above the table, where they come in from the tower (large conduits, 
buried in ground).


The floor is industrial laminate, the rack and desk have sliders (easily 
moved when wanted, no wandering).  A computer manages each piece, then I 
can remote into that computer from the warm house or when traveling.


It's a simple station, the 80-6M SteppIR up 60' and an 80/160M Inverted 
L.  Simple ROCKS!


73,
Rick NK7I
North Idaho

On 4/15/2020 10:46 AM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
When I built my operating desk, I made the top a full 36 inches deep 
so the face of the equipment is about 24 inches from the front.  I 
also put the 2 pedestals on appliance dolly wheels so I can roll the 
desk out for access behind the equipment.  There are shelves in the 
back to hold power supplies and all the other stuff that I don't need 
to see on a day to day basis.


I am fortunate to have a fully equipped woodworking shop and can do 
that kind of custom furniture design.  I built the desk from good oak 
and it matches the custom trim and cabinets throughout the rest of the 
house.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 4/15/2020 1:21 PM, Jim Brown wrote:

On 4/14/2020 10:18 PM, Victor Rosenthal 4X6GP wrote:
I chose to place my operating desk two feet from the wall. I refer 
to the area behind it as the "cable vault." This solution is cheap 
in terms of money and effort, but very expensive of space.


Yes. I wish I had thought of doing something like this after seeing 
something similar in N6RO's superstation. My operating position is on 
shelves attached to the wall behind them, held away from the wall 
about 2 inches for cables to pass vertically between shelves. That 
works, but it's a real PITA getting to cables connected to the radios 
and other gear when something must be removed for service, 
replacement, or to go into the field for FD or county expeditions.



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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Mike Short]

I use a solid core door slab.

On Wed, Apr 15, 2020 at 12:47 Don Wilhelm  wrote:

> When I built my operating desk, I made the top a full 36 inches deep so
> the face of the equipment is about 24 inches from the front.  I also put
> the 2 pedestals on appliance dolly wheels so I can roll the desk out for
> access behind the equipment.  There are shelves in the back to hold
> power supplies and all the other stuff that I don't need to see on a day
> to day basis.
>
> I am fortunate to have a fully equipped woodworking shop and can do that
> kind of custom furniture design.  I built the desk from good oak and it
> matches the custom trim and cabinets throughout the rest of the house.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 4/15/2020 1:21 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
> > On 4/14/2020 10:18 PM, Victor Rosenthal 4X6GP wrote:
> >> I chose to place my operating desk two feet from the wall. I refer to
> >> the area behind it as the "cable vault." This solution is cheap in
> >> terms of money and effort, but very expensive of space.
> >
> > Yes. I wish I had thought of doing something like this after seeing
> > something similar in N6RO's superstation. My operating position is on
> > shelves attached to the wall behind them, held away from the wall about
> > 2 inches for cables to pass vertically between shelves. That works, but
> > it's a real PITA getting to cables connected to the radios and other
> > gear when something must be removed for service, replacement, or to go
> > into the field for FD or county expeditions.
> >
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Don Wilhelm]

When I built my operating desk, I made the top a full 36 inches deep so 
the face of the equipment is about 24 inches from the front.  I also put 
the 2 pedestals on appliance dolly wheels so I can roll the desk out for 
access behind the equipment.  There are shelves in the back to hold 
power supplies and all the other stuff that I don't need to see on a day 
to day basis.


I am fortunate to have a fully equipped woodworking shop and can do that 
kind of custom furniture design.  I built the desk from good oak and it 
matches the custom trim and cabinets throughout the rest of the house.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 4/15/2020 1:21 PM, Jim Brown wrote:

On 4/14/2020 10:18 PM, Victor Rosenthal 4X6GP wrote:
I chose to place my operating desk two feet from the wall. I refer to 
the area behind it as the "cable vault." This solution is cheap in 
terms of money and effort, but very expensive of space.


Yes. I wish I had thought of doing something like this after seeing 
something similar in N6RO's superstation. My operating position is on 
shelves attached to the wall behind them, held away from the wall about 
2 inches for cables to pass vertically between shelves. That works, but 
it's a real PITA getting to cables connected to the radios and other 
gear when something must be removed for service, replacement, or to go 
into the field for FD or county expeditions.



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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jim Brown]

On 4/14/2020 10:18 PM, Victor Rosenthal 4X6GP wrote:
I chose to place my operating desk two feet from the wall. I refer to 
the area behind it as the "cable vault." This solution is cheap in terms 
of money and effort, but very expensive of space.


Yes. I wish I had thought of doing something like this after seeing 
something similar in N6RO's superstation. My operating position is on 
shelves attached to the wall behind them, held away from the wall about 
2 inches for cables to pass vertically between shelves. That works, but 
it's a real PITA getting to cables connected to the radios and other 
gear when something must be removed for service, replacement, or to go 
into the field for FD or county expeditions.


73, Jim K9YC
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Victor Rosenthal 4X6GP]

Wow, that is neat! Very impressive. Are you going to make one for the 
various audio and control circuits as well?


I chose to place my operating desk two feet from the wall. I refer to 
the area behind it as the "cable vault." This solution is cheap in terms 
of money and effort, but very expensive of space. Of course the panel 
takes up space on the desk and facing the operator, which is also very 
valuable.


73,
Victor, 4X6GP
Rehovot, Israel
Formerly K2VCO
CWops no. 5
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/
On 15/04/2020 0:34, Dave Cole wrote:
Odd you should mention that...  I am rebuilding my operating position, 
and am installing a patch panel...  See:


https://www.nk7z.net/rf-patch-panel/

For a close up of teh patch panel.  I used one of those services that 
give you the design software, and then build to your spec...


73, and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL Technical Specialist
ARRL Asst. Director, NW Division, Technical Resources

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Dave Cole]

Odd you should mention that...  I am rebuilding my operating position, 
and am installing a patch panel...  See:


https://www.nk7z.net/rf-patch-panel/

For a close up of teh patch panel.  I used one of those services that 
give you the design software, and then build to your spec...


73, and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL Technical Specialist
ARRL Asst. Director, NW Division, Technical Resources

On 4/14/20 1:29 PM, Lyn Norstad wrote:

Bill -

There's something about having all your gear lined up nicely in the shack,
and then having to unexpectedly get to a rear panel connector.  I hate when
that happens.  So I finally have everything on a 3-high shelving unit that
can be pivoted to allow me access to all the rear panels and cables (neatly
bundled and labeled).  The KPA500 holds down the lower right shelf, which
serves nicely as the pivot point.

The other end of that shelf is an IC-7300, so don't feel bad.  You've given
it great reports on 160 meters.

73
Lyn, W0LEN


-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of William Carpenter
Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2020 2:38 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

Welp, operator error big time.  Got an email from Elecraft tech support and
the first thing he told me to do was to unplug the RCA keyline and see what
happens.

AHA!

Last Friday I decided to use my IC-7300 instead of my K3 in the SKSS WES
contest. Yes, blaspheme I know. The 7300 only has one key jack so I had to
unplug the line going to my CW paddles and plug in a straight key.  Which
means fumbling around in the back of the rig blindly.  I
accidentally unplugged the RCA plug for the keyline to the KPA500 first.
Then with out thinking plugged it into the ALC phono jack which is right
next to the Key jack.  Which caused the amp to do what it was doing.

So I cleaned up the amp - needed some dust blown out - put it back
together, hooked it back up and guess what?

It works fine.

73, Bill NZ0T


On Tue, Apr 14, 2020 at 9:27 AM William Carpenter  wrote:


For the second time i about two years my KPA500 is suffering from the low
RX sensitivity in OPR.  Transmit is fine with full output ona ll bands.
The last time this happened the culprit was R7 on the PA unit which had
cracked and burned slightly.   Elecraft sent me a new R7 very quickly and
for free - the usual great customer service.  I installed it and the amp
was fine again.

It happened again last night so I took the PA unit out this morning.  R7
looks fine and tests fine as do all the associated components.   So, I'm

at

a loss.  The only thing I can think of is that my ugly SMT solder job has
gone bad - is OK with the meter but breaks down under normal voltage and
current.  Is that ever an issue with SMT?  I don't know mush about SMT
stuff.

I have an email sent to Elecraft service so hope to hear from them
sometime.  Not sure how responsive they can be in lockdown.

I should mention this amp was purchased as a new kit in 2016.
Any input is appreciated!  Especially as to what may be causing this to
happen

73, Bill NZ0T


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Lyn Norstad]

Bill -

There's something about having all your gear lined up nicely in the shack,
and then having to unexpectedly get to a rear panel connector.  I hate when
that happens.  So I finally have everything on a 3-high shelving unit that
can be pivoted to allow me access to all the rear panels and cables (neatly
bundled and labeled).  The KPA500 holds down the lower right shelf, which
serves nicely as the pivot point.

The other end of that shelf is an IC-7300, so don't feel bad.  You've given
it great reports on 160 meters.

73
Lyn, W0LEN


-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of William Carpenter
Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2020 2:38 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

Welp, operator error big time.  Got an email from Elecraft tech support and
the first thing he told me to do was to unplug the RCA keyline and see what
happens.

AHA!

Last Friday I decided to use my IC-7300 instead of my K3 in the SKSS WES
contest. Yes, blaspheme I know. The 7300 only has one key jack so I had to
unplug the line going to my CW paddles and plug in a straight key.  Which
means fumbling around in the back of the rig blindly.  I
accidentally unplugged the RCA plug for the keyline to the KPA500 first.
Then with out thinking plugged it into the ALC phono jack which is right
next to the Key jack.  Which caused the amp to do what it was doing.

So I cleaned up the amp - needed some dust blown out - put it back
together, hooked it back up and guess what?

It works fine.

73, Bill NZ0T


On Tue, Apr 14, 2020 at 9:27 AM William Carpenter  wrote:

> For the second time i about two years my KPA500 is suffering from the low
> RX sensitivity in OPR.  Transmit is fine with full output ona ll bands.
> The last time this happened the culprit was R7 on the PA unit which had
> cracked and burned slightly.   Elecraft sent me a new R7 very quickly and
> for free - the usual great customer service.  I installed it and the amp
> was fine again.
>
> It happened again last night so I took the PA unit out this morning.  R7
> looks fine and tests fine as do all the associated components.   So, I'm
at
> a loss.  The only thing I can think of is that my ugly SMT solder job has
> gone bad - is OK with the meter but breaks down under normal voltage and
> current.  Is that ever an issue with SMT?  I don't know mush about SMT
> stuff.
>
> I have an email sent to Elecraft service so hope to hear from them
> sometime.  Not sure how responsive they can be in lockdown.
>
> I should mention this amp was purchased as a new kit in 2016.
> Any input is appreciated!  Especially as to what may be causing this to
> happen
>
> 73, Bill NZ0T
>
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[William Carpenter]

Welp, operator error big time.  Got an email from Elecraft tech support and
the first thing he told me to do was to unplug the RCA keyline and see what
happens.

AHA!

Last Friday I decided to use my IC-7300 instead of my K3 in the SKSS WES
contest. Yes, blaspheme I know. The 7300 only has one key jack so I had to
unplug the line going to my CW paddles and plug in a straight key.  Which
means fumbling around in the back of the rig blindly.  I
accidentally unplugged the RCA plug for the keyline to the KPA500 first.
Then with out thinking plugged it into the ALC phono jack which is right
next to the Key jack.  Which caused the amp to do what it was doing.

So I cleaned up the amp - needed some dust blown out - put it back
together, hooked it back up and guess what?

It works fine.

73, Bill NZ0T


On Tue, Apr 14, 2020 at 9:27 AM William Carpenter  wrote:

> For the second time i about two years my KPA500 is suffering from the low
> RX sensitivity in OPR.  Transmit is fine with full output ona ll bands.
> The last time this happened the culprit was R7 on the PA unit which had
> cracked and burned slightly.   Elecraft sent me a new R7 very quickly and
> for free - the usual great customer service.  I installed it and the amp
> was fine again.
>
> It happened again last night so I took the PA unit out this morning.  R7
> looks fine and tests fine as do all the associated components.   So, I'm at
> a loss.  The only thing I can think of is that my ugly SMT solder job has
> gone bad - is OK with the meter but breaks down under normal voltage and
> current.  Is that ever an issue with SMT?  I don't know mush about SMT
> stuff.
>
> I have an email sent to Elecraft service so hope to hear from them
> sometime.  Not sure how responsive they can be in lockdown.
>
> I should mention this amp was purchased as a new kit in 2016.
> Any input is appreciated!  Especially as to what may be causing this to
> happen
>
> 73, Bill NZ0T
>
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[Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[William Carpenter]

For the second time i about two years my KPA500 is suffering from the low
RX sensitivity in OPR.  Transmit is fine with full output ona ll bands.
The last time this happened the culprit was R7 on the PA unit which had
cracked and burned slightly.   Elecraft sent me a new R7 very quickly and
for free - the usual great customer service.  I installed it and the amp
was fine again.

It happened again last night so I took the PA unit out this morning.  R7
looks fine and tests fine as do all the associated components.   So, I'm at
a loss.  The only thing I can think of is that my ugly SMT solder job has
gone bad - is OK with the meter but breaks down under normal voltage and
current.  Is that ever an issue with SMT?  I don't know mush about SMT
stuff.

I have an email sent to Elecraft service so hope to hear from them
sometime.  Not sure how responsive they can be in lockdown.

I should mention this amp was purchased as a new kit in 2016.
Any input is appreciated!  Especially as to what may be causing this to
happen

73, Bill NZ0T
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[Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Andy Durbin]

"I have a KPA500 with a low HV reading. It is on the center tap and AC voltage 
is 115v No load and 110v full load. The HV goes from 77v NL to 56v FL (500W 
output)  Is that something I should look into? "

The KPA500 high voltage (nominal 60 volt) power supply is unregulated. The 
mains power input to the KPA500 is probably poorly regulated.   The voltage 
drop you will see on the mains input and the KPA500 60 volt supply is directly 
dependent on the PA current and you don't say what that was.

The fact that you have 500W output at 56 V does not define the PA current.  PA 
current, PA dissipation, and PA efficiency, are strongly dependent on the load 
presented by the antenna system.

My limited experience with the KPA500 suggests that you should:
  Attempt to minimize voltage drop in the mains feed
  Present the KPA500 with a load as close to R50 j0 as possible
  Keep PA voltage above 60 volts for all operating conditions
  Avoid nuisance high voltage warnings

How close you come to meeting those goals is partly dependent on the variation 
in the unloaded voltage at the mains outlet that you are using. (Summer HVAC 
use causes several volts variation at my nominal 120 V outlet even though the 
street transformer is less than 50 ft from my KPA500).   

Some data for my station:
Mains voltage is now 123.0 V and my KPA PA voltage is 81.5.   A TX into a  
dummy load (R 51 X 0.4) at 14.074 MHz showed mains voltage 117.8,  RF out 487 
W, PA V/I 62.6 V / 14.0 A, PA Diss 389 W, efficiency 55%.

My mains drop of 5 V matches yours.  My PA voltage drop of 18.9 V  is lower 
than your drop of 21 V and I would expect the difference to be explained by a 
difference in PA current.

73,
Andy, k3wyc
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Bob McGraw K4TAX]

I did look at the parameters of my KPA500 this morning.  In STBY the HV 
is 75.4 and in OPER at 500 watts out, CW mode, key closed the HV is 63.7 
and current is 10.5 amps.   Amp is operated from a 240 volt source.


73

Bob, K4TAX


On 7/7/2019 6:20 AM, Mark Murray via Elecraft wrote:

For Doug, K6JEY:

In answer to your original question, as to whether you should look into
the KPA500's low voltage values: Yes.

By far, the best advice and the best answers on this particular question
will come from emailing supp...@elecraft.com .  By far.

Once the voltage questions are addressed and things are back on track,
please keep the rest of us in mind and send a follow-up summary to the
list.  Looking forward to a speedy recovery : )

// Mark  w2or

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[Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Mark Murray via Elecraft]

For Doug, K6JEY:

In answer to your original question, as to whether you should look into
the KPA500's low voltage values: Yes.

By far, the best advice and the best answers on this particular question
will come from emailing supp...@elecraft.com .  By far.  

Once the voltage questions are addressed and things are back on track,
please keep the rest of us in mind and send a follow-up summary to the
list.  Looking forward to a speedy recovery : )

// Mark  w2or

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[hawley, charles j jr]

Is that something new? I’m not too surprised running it on 115 and starting at 
77. 
I’m on 240 dedicated circuit and starting at 82 v which loads to about 67v. I’m 
doubting that there is any hard fault.

Chuck Jack Hawley 
KE9UW

Sent from my iPhone, cjack 

> On Jul 6, 2019, at 1:44 PM, Roy Koeppe  wrote:
> 
> Could a rectifier diode have gone open (as in it's now a half-wave circuit)? 
> If so the filter caps are at 60 Hz. Just a thought...
> 
> RoyK6XK
> 
> 
> I have a KPA500 with a low HV reading. It is on the center tap and AC voltage 
> is 115v No load and 110v full load. The HV goes from 77v NL to 56v FL (500W 
> output)  Is that something I should look into?Doug K6JEY
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Roy Koeppe]

Could a rectifier diode have gone open (as in it's now a half-wave circuit)? 
If so the filter caps are at 60 Hz. Just a thought...


RoyK6XK


I have a KPA500 with a low HV reading. It is on the center tap and AC 
voltage is 115v No load and 110v full load. The HV goes from 77v NL to 56v 
FL (500W output)  Is that something I should look into?Doug K6JEY






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[Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Doug Millar via Elecraft]

I have a KPA500 with a low HV reading. It is on the center tap and AC voltage 
is 115v No load and 110v full load. The HV goes from 77v NL to 56v FL (500W 
output)  Is that something I should look into?    Doug K6JEY


 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Kevin der Kinderen]

I've done some testing. I have a good selection of Times LMR-400-ULTRAFLEX
jumpers that I stocked up on from MPD Digital. Never had a problem with any
of their cables and so far it's looking like they are all good.

I set things up as Radio <--> KPA500 <--> DL1500 with new cables in between
and the KAT500 removed from the chain.

Running the radio to 10 watts the radio showed 1.25:1 SWR while the amp was
in standby. When in operate, the SWR on the radio maxed out.

I fired up KPA500 Remote and bumped the radio up to 20 watts. In standby,
radio showing 1.25:1 SWR KPA500 remote reported

Power: 18 w (that's typical)
SWR: 1.1:1
Current: PTT OFF (typical in standby)
Voltage: 74.8
Temp: 22 C

Switched the amp to operated, radio still at 20. KPA500 remote reported

Power: 0 W
SWR: NO RF
Current: PTT OFF
Voltage: 74.8
Temp: 22 C

It's like standby/operate is switching between straight-through and open.
It seems to be falling into place with Brian's description of his recent
problem. I heard no cracks, booms, or sizzles. Smelled no smoke or ozone.
It just started giving me problems intermittently and seems to have finally
settled down into a broke state.

Working with Elecraft to troubleshoot and will share any findings that
might be helpful or garner sympathy. ;)

73,
Kev K4VD
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Bob McGraw K4TAX]

On PL-259 connectors, make sure they are more than finger tight. I use a 
pair of 4" Channel Lock pliers to snug mine after they are finger 
tight.    Today's PL-259's may look good but indeed with many of them 
today,  the plating is crap!.  Same for coax cable and the way it gets 
terminated inside the PL-259.   The cable frequently works loose and 
causes intermittent connections which may not show up at 100 watts or less.


In my practice, if I find a bad cable, I immediately chop the suspect 
PL-259 off of one end.  That way the cable can not be accidentally used 
until it is properly repaired and checked with a dummy load and my 
impedance bridge or antenna bridge.


73

Bob, K4TAX




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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Brian D]

Kevin der Kinderen  wrote:

> I'm a bit surprised that's the conclusion as simply bypassing or turning
> off the amp but leaving it connected made the problem go away. I have some
> good cable on there now but can replace each one of them to try it out.
> I'll report back later on. I really hope it is just this.
> 
I had a similar problem recemntly due to a SC diode in the TR switch, all OK
on bypass but not on operate. After changing diode (and checking associated
bits I has problems with power/dissipation on 10 and 6m cured by using a
diode from a different batch.

However, after re-assembly I had intermittent lack of RX, traced to a relay
card used externally for buffering a relay. At the time this board was
unpowered but still in circuit and was holding the KPA500 on TX. A simple
bypass proved it was the culprit and putting its 12v power back on fixed it
for good.

-- 
Brian D
G3VGZ  YarmEngland
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Kevin der Kinderen]

Hmm... alright then. Jim sent me an email with the same conclusion. I need
to recheck all my cabling.

I'm a bit surprised that's the conclusion as simply bypassing or turning
off the amp but leaving it connected made the problem go away. I have some
good cable on there now but can replace each one of them to try it out.
I'll report back later on. I really hope it is just this.

Kev





On Mon, Nov 13, 2017 at 5:19 PM, Michael Walker 
wrote:

> Hi Kev
>
> Don is 100% right.
>
> I would change all the cables and then test with the amp alone and the
> tuner alone to narrow it down.
>
> I spent 3 days debugging an Acom A1000 issue only to finally out I had a
> bad jumper cable.
>
> Mike va3mw
>
>
> On Mon, Nov 13, 2017 at 5:05 PM, Don Wilhelm 
> wrote:
>
>> Kev,
>>
>> That behavior can be caused by a coax jumper, either loose or faulty in
>> some way.  Make sure the PL-259s are tight and if you can substitute the
>> jumpers with known good ones - particularly the one between the KPA500 and
>> the KAT500 and the one between your transceiver and the KPA500.
>> There are as many problems caused by cables as are caused by equipment.
>> Some cable problems have no apparent problem at lower power, but rear
>> their ugly head at higher power.
>> You could also have a higher power problem with your antenna.  Switch to
>> an alternate antenna or dummy load if possible (tune the KAT500 into the
>> dummy load) as a test.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>>
>>
>> On 11/13/2017 4:41 PM, Kevin der Kinderen wrote:
>>
>>> Waiting on an answer from Elecraft but thought I'd also check with the
>>> group here.
>>>
>>> I have a Flex 6500 with KAT500/KPA500 combo. It's been working great
>>> until
>>> very recently. Within the past couple of days I was intermittently
>>> reading
>>> high SWR when the amp is in operate. In standby or off everything looks
>>> good. As of last night it's not so intermittent.
>>>
>>> In receive when I switch from standby to operate I'm only receiving the
>>> strongest of signals. Everything else disappears almost like the antenna
>>> was disconnected.
>>>
>>> When switching between standby and operate I hear a relay clicking. I'm
>>> not
>>> sure but it doesn't seem to be as loud a click as I normally hear but I
>>> can't be sure.
>>>
>>> With the amp powered down and the Flex set to 100 watts out everything
>>> seems to be working fine. I'm afraid my amp is going to take a trip. Any
>>> ideas for things to check?
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Kev K4VD
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Michael Walker]

Hi Kev

Don is 100% right.

I would change all the cables and then test with the amp alone and the
tuner alone to narrow it down.

I spent 3 days debugging an Acom A1000 issue only to finally out I had a
bad jumper cable.

Mike va3mw


On Mon, Nov 13, 2017 at 5:05 PM, Don Wilhelm  wrote:

> Kev,
>
> That behavior can be caused by a coax jumper, either loose or faulty in
> some way.  Make sure the PL-259s are tight and if you can substitute the
> jumpers with known good ones - particularly the one between the KPA500 and
> the KAT500 and the one between your transceiver and the KPA500.
> There are as many problems caused by cables as are caused by equipment.
> Some cable problems have no apparent problem at lower power, but rear
> their ugly head at higher power.
> You could also have a higher power problem with your antenna.  Switch to
> an alternate antenna or dummy load if possible (tune the KAT500 into the
> dummy load) as a test.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
>
> On 11/13/2017 4:41 PM, Kevin der Kinderen wrote:
>
>> Waiting on an answer from Elecraft but thought I'd also check with the
>> group here.
>>
>> I have a Flex 6500 with KAT500/KPA500 combo. It's been working great until
>> very recently. Within the past couple of days I was intermittently reading
>> high SWR when the amp is in operate. In standby or off everything looks
>> good. As of last night it's not so intermittent.
>>
>> In receive when I switch from standby to operate I'm only receiving the
>> strongest of signals. Everything else disappears almost like the antenna
>> was disconnected.
>>
>> When switching between standby and operate I hear a relay clicking. I'm
>> not
>> sure but it doesn't seem to be as loud a click as I normally hear but I
>> can't be sure.
>>
>> With the amp powered down and the Flex set to 100 watts out everything
>> seems to be working fine. I'm afraid my amp is going to take a trip. Any
>> ideas for things to check?
>>
>> 73,
>> Kev K4VD
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Don Wilhelm]

Kev,

That behavior can be caused by a coax jumper, either loose or faulty in 
some way.  Make sure the PL-259s are tight and if you can substitute the 
jumpers with known good ones - particularly the one between the KPA500 
and the KAT500 and the one between your transceiver and the KPA500.

There are as many problems caused by cables as are caused by equipment.
Some cable problems have no apparent problem at lower power, but rear 
their ugly head at higher power.
You could also have a higher power problem with your antenna.  Switch to 
an alternate antenna or dummy load if possible (tune the KAT500 into the 
dummy load) as a test.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 11/13/2017 4:41 PM, Kevin der Kinderen wrote:

Waiting on an answer from Elecraft but thought I'd also check with the
group here.

I have a Flex 6500 with KAT500/KPA500 combo. It's been working great until
very recently. Within the past couple of days I was intermittently reading
high SWR when the amp is in operate. In standby or off everything looks
good. As of last night it's not so intermittent.

In receive when I switch from standby to operate I'm only receiving the
strongest of signals. Everything else disappears almost like the antenna
was disconnected.

When switching between standby and operate I hear a relay clicking. I'm not
sure but it doesn't seem to be as loud a click as I normally hear but I
can't be sure.

With the amp powered down and the Flex set to 100 watts out everything
seems to be working fine. I'm afraid my amp is going to take a trip. Any
ideas for things to check?

73,
Kev K4VD
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[Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Kevin der Kinderen]

Waiting on an answer from Elecraft but thought I'd also check with the
group here.

I have a Flex 6500 with KAT500/KPA500 combo. It's been working great until
very recently. Within the past couple of days I was intermittently reading
high SWR when the amp is in operate. In standby or off everything looks
good. As of last night it's not so intermittent.

In receive when I switch from standby to operate I'm only receiving the
strongest of signals. Everything else disappears almost like the antenna
was disconnected.

When switching between standby and operate I hear a relay clicking. I'm not
sure but it doesn't seem to be as loud a click as I normally hear but I
can't be sure.

With the amp powered down and the Flex set to 100 watts out everything
seems to be working fine. I'm afraid my amp is going to take a trip. Any
ideas for things to check?

73,
Kev K4VD
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jack Brindle]

Marvin;

Assuming that you have the AUX I/O cable connected from the KPA500 to the K3, 
and you have RADIO set to K3 in the KPA500 menu, then I suspect you have dialed 
the power down to 0 on the K3 when the KPA is enabled.

The KPA tells the K3 its state when it switches to STBY or OPER. The K3 uses 
this info to set the power level when you have the K3 set for PER BAND power as 
Don mentions. I don’t know if the per-band setting for power includes mode,
but since this is one of the few things the K3 does when the KPA changes its 
operating mode, it makes sense that the problem is a very low power setting in 
the K3.

If this isn’t the situation, be sure to check the AUX I/O cable to make sure 
that none of the pins are bent. Also make sure that pin 11 of the connector is 
missing. If it is not, then I would suggest that you might want to remove it 
and/or turn off the DIGOUT1 signal.

Other than that, Don is right. This is a mystery.

- Jack, W6FB


> On Oct 9, 2017, at 9:29 PM, Don Wilhelm  wrote:
> 
> That is a mystery.
> The KPA500 is simply an amplifier, so it should amplify the K3S PEP power for 
> SSB the same as it does for CW.
> Take a look at the drive power from the K3S.  If you are overdriving the 
> KPA500 in SSB, it may be switching in an attenuator.
> That could result from having too much compression on your SSB setting in the 
> K3S.
> Have you set the PER BAND power in the K3S to limit the power to the KPA500 
> when in operate mode?  See the KPA500 manual pages 9 and 10.
> 
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
> 
> On 10/9/2017 11:55 PM, marvwhee...@nwlink.com wrote:
>> After switching from cw to sideband I have no output from either the K3S or
>> the KPA500. Simply putting the KPA500 into standby allows output from the
>> K3S. I think I have a switching problem. Where should I look?
>>  Thanks
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Don Wilhelm]

That is a mystery.
The KPA500 is simply an amplifier, so it should amplify the K3S PEP 
power for SSB the same as it does for CW.
Take a look at the drive power from the K3S.  If you are overdriving the 
KPA500 in SSB, it may be switching in an attenuator.
That could result from having too much compression on your SSB setting 
in the K3S.
Have you set the PER BAND power in the K3S to limit the power to the 
KPA500 when in operate mode?  See the KPA500 manual pages 9 and 10.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/9/2017 11:55 PM, marvwhee...@nwlink.com wrote:

After switching from cw to sideband I have no output from either the K3S or
the KPA500. Simply putting the KPA500 into standby allows output from the
K3S. I think I have a switching problem. Where should I look?

  


Thanks

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[Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[marvwheeler]

After switching from cw to sideband I have no output from either the K3S or
the KPA500. Simply putting the KPA500 into standby allows output from the
K3S. I think I have a switching problem. Where should I look?

 

Thanks

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Dan Maase AC6DM via Elecraft]

Mike:
Suggest changing fuses in input fuse block.   I have experienced an
intermittent fuse problem in other equipment in the past that produced very
puzzling symptoms.
73 and good luck,
Dan
AC6DM



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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Don Wilhelm]

Jim,

I think you will find the KPA500 transformer to be quite robust, but of 
course there is always a small chance that you have one that could be 
defective.  If you can monitor the DC voltage under load, that would be 
revealing.
Contact k3sup...@elecraft.com or Jack Brindle (he has already responded 
to you and is one of the KPA500 designers).


73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/16/2016 11:26 PM, Jim Bolit wrote:

Their methods show BOTH line regulation and load regulation.

How much does the voltage change with a stiff, low impedance line or an
electronic AC generator that will keep the line at 110 or 220, regardless of
load(within limits of course)?

I get a sense the transformer is not that robust, but have no facts to back
that statement.




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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jim Bolit]

Their methods show BOTH line regulation and load regulation.  

How much does the voltage change with a stiff, low impedance line or an
electronic AC generator that will keep the line at 110 or 220, regardless of
load(within limits of course)?

I get a sense the transformer is not that robust, but have no facts to back
that statement.

Jim
W6AIM


.
 

-Original Message-
From: Ron D'Eau Claire [mailto:r...@cobi.biz] 
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 5:13 PM
To: 'Jim Bolit'; 'Elecraft Reflector'
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

I've not seen any such specs., but since the measurements for setting the
taps and checking the regulation (load/no-load voltages) are done using the
actual HV at the output of the power supply,  as long as it stays within the
stated range it should work FB.

73, Ron AC7AC 

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Jim
Bolit
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 4:01 PM
To: 'Ron D'Eau Claire'; 'Elecraft Reflector'
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

The load regulation of the transformer/rectifiers is also an issue.

Does Elecraft spec the load regulation of the KPA-500 at nominal AC input
for both 110 and 220 volt input?

Jim
W6AIM


.


-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ron
D'Eau Claire
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 3:41 PM
To: 'Elecraft Reflector'
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

On the fairly rare occasions I go QRO with the KPA500 it runs off of a 120V
wall outlet >50 feet from the breaker panel. 

With the taps set so the key-up HV is near max (85V), the HV drops to close
to the minimum voltage (60V) at 500 watts on some bands. That's all due to
the 120V feed droop. There's no benefit from having the tap set for a
mid-range voltage if the HV droops below 60V on key down. Below 60V the amp
won't make full output on some bands and IMD is compromised. A
self-protective circuit will kick in and shut the power supply off if the
key-up voltage is too high. In that case you will get an immediate fault
indication when you press the ON switch to apply power.  

It is useful to not have other heavy loads on the same circuit - especially
loads that switch on and off (Microwave oven, household vacuum cleaner,
etc.) Even if such loads do not cause the circuit breaker to open, they can
cause the voltage at your outlet to shift even further. 

73, Ron AC7AC
 

-Original Message-

> > On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
> >
> > I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, 
> > well packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp 
> > on, interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 
> > immediately shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It 
> > shuts down just as if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, 
> > etc... The antenna is resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 
> > watts, swapped coax, hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA 
> > cable, the Elecraft cable, etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can 
> > tap the paddle like a straight key lightly and the amp works, but 
> > put two dits together and it
> shuts down.
> >
> >
> >
> > Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking 
> > this has to be something simple.
> >
> >
> >
> > Mike AD5A


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

I've not seen any such specs., but since the measurements for setting the
taps and checking the regulation (load/no-load voltages) are done using the
actual HV at the output of the power supply,  as long as it stays within the
stated range it should work FB.

73, Ron AC7AC 

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Jim
Bolit
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 4:01 PM
To: 'Ron D'Eau Claire'; 'Elecraft Reflector'
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

The load regulation of the transformer/rectifiers is also an issue.

Does Elecraft spec the load regulation of the KPA-500 at nominal AC input
for both 110 and 220 volt input?

Jim
W6AIM


.


-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ron
D'Eau Claire
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 3:41 PM
To: 'Elecraft Reflector'
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

On the fairly rare occasions I go QRO with the KPA500 it runs off of a 120V
wall outlet >50 feet from the breaker panel. 

With the taps set so the key-up HV is near max (85V), the HV drops to close
to the minimum voltage (60V) at 500 watts on some bands. That's all due to
the 120V feed droop. There's no benefit from having the tap set for a
mid-range voltage if the HV droops below 60V on key down. Below 60V the amp
won't make full output on some bands and IMD is compromised. A
self-protective circuit will kick in and shut the power supply off if the
key-up voltage is too high. In that case you will get an immediate fault
indication when you press the ON switch to apply power.  

It is useful to not have other heavy loads on the same circuit - especially
loads that switch on and off (Microwave oven, household vacuum cleaner,
etc.) Even if such loads do not cause the circuit breaker to open, they can
cause the voltage at your outlet to shift even further. 

73, Ron AC7AC
 

-Original Message-

> > On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
> >
> > I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, 
> > well packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp 
> > on, interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 
> > immediately shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It 
> > shuts down just as if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, 
> > etc... The antenna is resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 
> > watts, swapped coax, hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA 
> > cable, the Elecraft cable, etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can 
> > tap the paddle like a straight key lightly and the amp works, but 
> > put two dits together and it
> shuts down.
> >
> >
> >
> > Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking 
> > this has to be something simple.
> >
> >
> >
> > Mike AD5A


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jim Bolit]

The load regulation of the transformer/rectifiers is also an issue.

Does Elecraft spec the load regulation of the KPA-500 at nominal AC input
for both 110 and 220 volt input?

Jim
W6AIM


.


-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ron
D'Eau Claire
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 3:41 PM
To: 'Elecraft Reflector'
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

On the fairly rare occasions I go QRO with the KPA500 it runs off of a 120V
wall outlet >50 feet from the breaker panel. 

With the taps set so the key-up HV is near max (85V), the HV drops to close
to the minimum voltage (60V) at 500 watts on some bands. That's all due to
the 120V feed droop. There's no benefit from having the tap set for a
mid-range voltage if the HV droops below 60V on key down. Below 60V the amp
won't make full output on some bands and IMD is compromised. A
self-protective circuit will kick in and shut the power supply off if the
key-up voltage is too high. In that case you will get an immediate fault
indication when you press the ON switch to apply power.  

It is useful to not have other heavy loads on the same circuit - especially
loads that switch on and off (Microwave oven, household vacuum cleaner,
etc.) Even if such loads do not cause the circuit breaker to open, they can
cause the voltage at your outlet to shift even further. 

73, Ron AC7AC
 

-Original Message-

> > On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
> >
> > I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, 
> > well packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp 
> > on, interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 
> > immediately shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It 
> > shuts down just as if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, 
> > etc... The antenna is resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 
> > watts, swapped coax, hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA 
> > cable, the Elecraft cable, etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can 
> > tap the paddle like a straight key lightly and the amp works, but 
> > put two dits together and it
> shuts down.
> >
> >
> >
> > Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking 
> > this has to be something simple.
> >
> >
> >
> > Mike AD5A


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

On the fairly rare occasions I go QRO with the KPA500 it runs off of a 120V
wall outlet >50 feet from the breaker panel. 

With the taps set so the key-up HV is near max (85V), the HV drops to close
to the minimum voltage (60V) at 500 watts on some bands. That's all due to
the 120V feed droop. There's no benefit from having the tap set for a
mid-range voltage if the HV droops below 60V on key down. Below 60V the amp
won't make full output on some bands and IMD is compromised. A
self-protective circuit will kick in and shut the power supply off if the
key-up voltage is too high. In that case you will get an immediate fault
indication when you press the ON switch to apply power.  

It is useful to not have other heavy loads on the same circuit - especially
loads that switch on and off (Microwave oven, household vacuum cleaner,
etc.) Even if such loads do not cause the circuit breaker to open, they can
cause the voltage at your outlet to shift even further. 

73, Ron AC7AC
 

-Original Message-

> > On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover  wrote:
> >
> > I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, 
> > well packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp 
> > on, interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 
> > immediately shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It 
> > shuts down just as if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, 
> > etc... The antenna is resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 
> > watts, swapped coax, hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA 
> > cable, the Elecraft cable, etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can 
> > tap the paddle like a straight key lightly and the amp works, but 
> > put two dits together and it
> shuts down.
> >
> >
> >
> > Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking 
> > this has to be something simple.
> >
> >
> >
> > Mike AD5A


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Mike Crownover]

Guy,

I plugged this KPA into the same socket as my current KPA is operating from, so 
the 120v power source is not the problem. I also swapped power cords with one 
that was working. 

Thanks,

Mike AD5A

> On Feb 16, 2016, at 12:07 PM, Guy Olinger K2AV <k2av@gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> Hmm. One of the reasons people get a KPA500 is because they can't get 240 to 
> the shack and the KPA will run on 120V. That makes it non-idiotic to inquire 
> upon the 120V supply.
> 
> I heard of a problem something like this, not a KPA500, that turned out to be 
> a defective wall outlet. I would imagine that the KPA500 is unforgiving of a 
> precipitous drop in AC voltage. In the case I cite, all kinds of wierdness in 
> the shack went away when the wall outlet was replaced. The defective wall 
> outlet had internal blades that were badly pitted. It was also very old by 
> any means of estimate. 
> 
> I also heard of a power cord that was not crimped correctly inside the molded 
> plug, discovered upon dissection style autopsy afterwards.
> 
> Other issues would be aluminum wiring that had not been tightened up, a 
> single bad socket in a power strip, etc. Also have heard of a wall socket 
> connection where one of the screws on the outlet had never been tightened. 
> 
> A KPA500 is a hard pull on a 120V socket. It would not matter to the AC power 
> that you were just hitting 10 watts, because you turn on the idling current 
> as soon as any RF is sensed. 
> 
> Do not assume that the 120V supply is A-OK. Verify everything on that 120V 
> circuit, up to and including the breaker in the breaker box. Breakers go bad 
> too. 
> 
> In any event the very best of luck chasing this aggravating problem. Please 
> let us all know what finally turns out to be the actual problem and what you 
> did to fix it.
> 
> 73, Guy K2AV
> 
>> On Tue, Feb 16, 2016 at 11:48 AM, Cliff Frescura <c...@cfcorp.com> wrote:
>> Can you measure the 110V line voltage on key down?  Is it stiff enough?
>> 
>> 73,
>> 
>> Cliff K3LL/6
>> 
>> -Original Message-
>> From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike
>> Crownover
>> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 8:22 AM
>> To: 'Nr4c'
>> Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem
>> 
>> Bill,
>> 
>> Did that, it's set for 110v. I used the yellow tap, which gives me 75 v,
>> right in the middle of the spec. I did try the other two, but same behavior.
>> 
>> Thnaks,
>> 
>> Mike AD5A
>> 
>> -Original Message-
>> From: Nr4c [mailto:n...@widomaker.com]
>> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 10:19 AM
>> To: Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com>
>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem
>> 
>> What input voltage is it configured for?
>> 
>> Check manual for voltage tap info.
>> 
>> Sent from my iPhone
>> ...nr4c. bill
>> 
>> 
>> > On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
>> >
>> > I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, well
>> > packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp on,
>> > interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 immediately
>> > shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It shuts down just as
>> > if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, etc... The antenna is
>> > resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 watts, swapped coax,
>> > hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA cable, the Elecraft cable,
>> > etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can tap the paddle like a
>> > straight key lightly and the amp works, but put two dits together and
>> > it
>> shuts down.
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking this
>> > has to be something simple.
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > Mike AD5A
>> >
>> > __
>> > 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 Message delivered to
>> > n...@widomaker.com
>> 
>> __
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jim Brown]

On Tue,2/16/2016 10:07 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:

I heard of a problem something like this, not a KPA500, that turned out to
be a defective wall outlet.


Or a long run of relatively small wire to the outlet from the panel. Or 
a bad splice at another outlet between your outlet and the breaker 
panel. Or perhaps you're not plugged directly into the wall, but into 
some other device or multi-outlet box. A good way to check this is to 
hang a voltmeter across another outlet wired directly in parallel with 
the power amp (most wall outlets are duplexes, two outlets in a single 
enclosure) and watch the AC voltage as you key the amp. Start with 
fairly low power (100-200W) and gradually increase it until the amp 
shuts down. As I recall, the KPA500 pulls about 10A at 120V for full power.


There's a very useful device to measure voltage, current, power, VA, 
power factor, and even kWh. It's called Kill A Watt. You plug it into 
the outlet, then plug the device you want to test into it. There are 
several version of it. Here's one, which is what I have.


http://www.p3international.com/products/p4400.html

73, Jim K9YC

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Guy Olinger K2AV]

Hmm. One of the reasons people get a KPA500 is because they can't get 240
to the shack and the KPA will run on 120V. That makes it non-idiotic to
inquire upon the 120V supply.

I heard of a problem something like this, not a KPA500, that turned out to
be a defective wall outlet. I would imagine that the KPA500 is unforgiving
of a precipitous drop in AC voltage. In the case I cite, all kinds of
wierdness in the shack went away when the wall outlet was replaced. The
defective wall outlet had internal blades that were badly pitted. It was
also very old by any means of estimate.

I also heard of a power cord that was not crimped correctly inside the
molded plug, discovered upon dissection style autopsy afterwards.

Other issues would be aluminum wiring that had not been tightened up, a
single bad socket in a power strip, etc. Also have heard of a wall socket
connection where one of the screws on the outlet had never been tightened.

A KPA500 is a hard pull on a 120V socket. It would not matter to the AC
power that you were just hitting 10 watts, because you turn on the idling
current as soon as any RF is sensed.

Do not assume that the 120V supply is A-OK. Verify everything on that 120V
circuit, up to and including the breaker in the breaker box. Breakers go
bad too.

In any event the very best of luck chasing this aggravating problem. Please
let us all know what finally turns out to be the actual problem and what
you did to fix it.

73, Guy K2AV

On Tue, Feb 16, 2016 at 11:48 AM, Cliff Frescura <c...@cfcorp.com> wrote:

> Can you measure the 110V line voltage on key down?  Is it stiff enough?
>
> 73,
>
> Cliff K3LL/6
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike
> Crownover
> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 8:22 AM
> To: 'Nr4c'
> Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem
>
> Bill,
>
> Did that, it's set for 110v. I used the yellow tap, which gives me 75 v,
> right in the middle of the spec. I did try the other two, but same
> behavior.
>
> Thnaks,
>
> Mike AD5A
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Nr4c [mailto:n...@widomaker.com]
> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 10:19 AM
> To: Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com>
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem
>
> What input voltage is it configured for?
>
> Check manual for voltage tap info.
>
> Sent from my iPhone
> ...nr4c. bill
>
>
> > On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
> >
> > I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, well
> > packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp on,
> > interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 immediately
> > shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It shuts down just as
> > if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, etc... The antenna is
> > resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 watts, swapped coax,
> > hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA cable, the Elecraft cable,
> > etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can tap the paddle like a
> > straight key lightly and the amp works, but put two dits together and
> > it
> shuts down.
> >
> >
> >
> > Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking this
> > has to be something simple.
> >
> >
> >
> > Mike AD5A
> >
> > __
> > 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 Message delivered to
> > n...@widomaker.com
>
> __
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>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Cliff Frescura]

Can you measure the 110V line voltage on key down?  Is it stiff enough?

73,

Cliff K3LL/6

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike
Crownover
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 8:22 AM
To: 'Nr4c'
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

Bill,

Did that, it's set for 110v. I used the yellow tap, which gives me 75 v,
right in the middle of the spec. I did try the other two, but same behavior.

Thnaks,

Mike AD5A

-Original Message-
From: Nr4c [mailto:n...@widomaker.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 10:19 AM
To: Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

What input voltage is it configured for?

Check manual for voltage tap info. 

Sent from my iPhone
...nr4c. bill


> On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
> 
> I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, well 
> packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp on, 
> interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 immediately 
> shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It shuts down just as 
> if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, etc... The antenna is 
> resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 watts, swapped coax, 
> hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA cable, the Elecraft cable, 
> etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can tap the paddle like a 
> straight key lightly and the amp works, but put two dits together and 
> it
shuts down.
> 
> 
> 
> Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking this 
> has to be something simple.
> 
> 
> 
> Mike AD5A
> 
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Mike Crownover]

Bill,

Did that, it's set for 110v. I used the yellow tap, which gives me 75 v,
right in the middle of the spec. I did try the other two, but same behavior.

Thnaks,

Mike AD5A

-Original Message-
From: Nr4c [mailto:n...@widomaker.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 10:19 AM
To: Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

What input voltage is it configured for?

Check manual for voltage tap info. 

Sent from my iPhone
...nr4c. bill


> On Feb 15, 2016, at 11:11 PM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
> 
> I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, well 
> packed and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp on, 
> interfaced it with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 immediately 
> shut-off. No fault light or error code, nothing. It shuts down just as 
> if I had pressed the power button, the fan runs, etc... The antenna is 
> resonant 1:1, I've lowered input power to 10 watts, swapped coax, 
> hooked it up to another K3, used RCA to RCA cable, the Elecraft cable, 
> etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can tap the paddle like a 
> straight key lightly and the amp works, but put two dits together and it
shuts down.
> 
> 
> 
> Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking this 
> has to be something simple.
> 
> 
> 
> Mike AD5A
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Mike Crownover]

Did that..."power lost without controlled shutdown"

Thanks,

Mike AD5A

-Original Message-
From: Dick Dievendorff [mailto:d...@elecraft.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 9:53 AM
To: 'Mike Crownover' <a...@gvtc.com>; 'AJ8MH Radio'
<aj8mh-ra...@charter.net>
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

I would recommend connecting the KPA Utility and display the fault table.

73 de Dick, K6KR


-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike
Crownover
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 07:39
To: 'AJ8MH Radio' <aj8mh-ra...@charter.net>
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

Joe,

I already reset all menu items to default. I've also done the Key Out to PA
Key configuration. I've also done the 10 watt exercise, I am getting the
asterisk without the underscore and the ~200 watts out. But only when I just
tap the paddle. If I string dits together, even at low power the amp shuts
off.

The K3 isn't shutting down.

I sort of in the camp that it's something internal, however, I've never
built one of these. I did get the assembly manual and have looked at some
obvious ground connections and all seem in order.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Mike AD5A

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of AJ8MH
Radio
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 9:26 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

No fault codes?

Double check amp's menu items and set all to default before test.

Remove all cables. Connect dummy load directly to amp. Connect RF in from
K3. Connect "Key Out" to "PA Key."

Manually select same band on rig and amp. Set K3 for 10 watts drive. 
Select "OPER." Now, try and key amp. You should see asterisk in amp's
display window and around 200 watts out. An asterisk with underscore
indicates amp is being inhibited.

If amp still fails, I would check all connections internal to the amp. 
Guess you could also see if the K3 is shutting down...

73,
Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )

On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:

73,
Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )

On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jack Brindle]

I have to concur, but can’t give any help on what might be shorting. One piece 
of info I can give - there is no scenario in firmware where a fault will power 
off the amplifier. All faults will leave the amplifier in the STBY state with 
the amplifier on. With some you won’t be able to transmit, but the amp will 
still be powered.

Make sure all connections are right, that no cables are offset or otherwise 
misconnected. What version of firmware is in the KPA500? If not V1.38 or later, 
you should upgrade. 

Otherwise talk to the CS folks in Watsonville. This is a strange situation. It 
would be interesting to see the fault table for the amp (you might send me a 
fault table for analysis). With the amplifier shutting down so quickly I doubt 
if anything is being saved, though.

Jack Brindle, W6FB
Elecraft Engineering

 
> On Feb 16, 2016, at 7:39 AM, Mike Crownover <a...@gvtc.com> wrote:
> 
> Joe,
> 
> I already reset all menu items to default. I've also done the Key Out to PA
> Key configuration. I've also done the 10 watt exercise, I am getting the
> asterisk without the underscore and the ~200 watts out. But only when I just
> tap the paddle. If I string dits together, even at low power the amp shuts
> off.
> 
> The K3 isn't shutting down.
> 
> I sort of in the camp that it's something internal, however, I've never
> built one of these. I did get the assembly manual and have looked at some
> obvious ground connections and all seem in order.
> 
> Thanks for your thoughts.
> 
> Mike AD5A
> 
> -Original Message-
> From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of AJ8MH
> Radio
> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 9:26 AM
> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem
> 
> No fault codes?
> 
> Double check amp's menu items and set all to default before test.
> 
> Remove all cables. Connect dummy load directly to amp. Connect RF in from
> K3. Connect "Key Out" to "PA Key."
> 
> Manually select same band on rig and amp. Set K3 for 10 watts drive. 
> Select "OPER." Now, try and key amp. You should see asterisk in amp's
> display window and around 200 watts out. An asterisk with underscore
> indicates amp is being inhibited.
> 
> If amp still fails, I would check all connections internal to the amp. 
> Guess you could also see if the K3 is shutting down...
> 
> 73,
> Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )
> 
> On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:
> 
> 73,
> Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )
> 
> On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Mike Crownover]

Joe,

I already reset all menu items to default. I've also done the Key Out to PA
Key configuration. I've also done the 10 watt exercise, I am getting the
asterisk without the underscore and the ~200 watts out. But only when I just
tap the paddle. If I string dits together, even at low power the amp shuts
off.

The K3 isn't shutting down.

I sort of in the camp that it's something internal, however, I've never
built one of these. I did get the assembly manual and have looked at some
obvious ground connections and all seem in order.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Mike AD5A

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of AJ8MH
Radio
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 9:26 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

No fault codes?

Double check amp's menu items and set all to default before test.

Remove all cables. Connect dummy load directly to amp. Connect RF in from
K3. Connect "Key Out" to "PA Key."

Manually select same band on rig and amp. Set K3 for 10 watts drive. 
Select "OPER." Now, try and key amp. You should see asterisk in amp's
display window and around 200 watts out. An asterisk with underscore
indicates amp is being inhibited.

If amp still fails, I would check all connections internal to the amp. 
Guess you could also see if the K3 is shutting down...

73,
Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )

On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:

73,
Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )

On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[AJ8MH Radio]

No fault codes?

Double check amp's menu items and set all to default before test.

Remove all cables. Connect dummy load directly to amp. Connect RF in 
from K3. Connect "Key Out" to "PA Key."


Manually select same band on rig and amp. Set K3 for 10 watts drive. 
Select "OPER." Now, try and key amp. You should see asterisk in amp's 
display window and around 200 watts out. An asterisk with underscore 
indicates amp is being inhibited.


If amp still fails, I would check all connections internal to the amp. 
Guess you could also see if the K3 is shutting down...


73,
Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )

On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:

73,
Joe ( AJ8MH-Radio )

On 2/16/2016 9:33 AM, Mike Crownover wrote:

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Mike Crownover]

Mark,

Menu is set to K3

I've configured the amp 2 different ways, Key Out  to PA Key, with 2
different cablesno difference

KPA500 AUX from K3 to KPA 500, with a known good cable, ( I have a K3 line
already) and the one that came with itno difference. The band changes
all work fine.

I'm certainly not a technical guy, but it seems to me the transfer from
radio to amp to key the amp is working fine. There is something after key
down that is shorting or somehow malfunctioning that shuts the amp down. I
can turn the power on the K3 down to 10 watts and tap the paddle and the amp
works, but put two dits in a row and it shuts down.

I've inspected the inside for transformer damage and there is nothing
visible. The one lead that Elecraft gave me was that the screws for the tilt
bar were installed backwards, leading to the possibility of a short with the
transformer. I had to remove the transformer to reverse those screws, (they
sent me the procedure), but that wasn't the problem either. 

I didn't use a configuration that would require the interrupter.

Thanks for your comments and thoughts.

73,

Mike AD5A



-Original Message-
From: Mark E. Musick [mailto:markmus...@sbcglobal.net] 
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 1:11 AM
To: 'Mike Crownover' <a...@gvtc.com>
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

Mike,
First connect the amp to a dummy load and see how it behaves. This
eliminates the antenna. Yes, I know the SWR is 1:1, but it eliminates it as
a possible problem and you are not putting a signal on the air causing QRM.

Go into the KPA500 menu and make sure RADIO is set to K3.

Are you using the key out of the K3 to the key in (PA KEY) on the amp for
keying the amp or are you keying the amp through the cable connected to the
K3 accessory socket? If you are using key out to key in, did you put the
keying interrupter for pin 11 on the K3 accessory jack? 

Try the basic cabling setup as described in the manual.
Just connect RF IN from the K3, RF OUT to the dummy load, KEY OUT on the K3
to PA KEY on the KPA500. Leave the cable from the K3 accessory socket to the
KPA500 AUX socket disconnected. See if it operates in this configuration.

Let us know the results.

Mark Musick, WB9CIF


-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike
Crownover
Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 4:12 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, well packed
and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp on, interfaced it
with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 immediately shut-off. No fault
light or error code, nothing. It shuts down just as if I had pressed the
power button, the fan runs, etc... The antenna is resonant 1:1, I've lowered
input power to 10 watts, swapped coax, hooked it up to another K3, used RCA
to RCA cable, the Elecraft cable, etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can
tap the paddle like a straight key lightly and the amp works, but put two
dits together and it shuts down.

 

Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking this has
to be something simple.

 

Mike AD5A

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[Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Mike Crownover]

I just bought a lightly used KPA500. It arrived from the seller, well packed
and complete with cables, manuals, etc. I turned the amp on, interfaced it
with my K3, keyed the radio and the KPA500 immediately shut-off. No fault
light or error code, nothing. It shuts down just as if I had pressed the
power button, the fan runs, etc... The antenna is resonant 1:1, I've lowered
input power to 10 watts, swapped coax, hooked it up to another K3, used RCA
to RCA cable, the Elecraft cable, etc.. When down to 10 watts input, I can
tap the paddle like a straight key lightly and the amp works, but put two
dits together and it shuts down.

 

Has anyone had an experienced anything like this. I keep thinking this has
to be something simple.

 

Mike AD5A

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Ed Muns]

Send it back for the TR switch update.  This is a known problem with early
KPA500s and there is an easy factory fix.

Ed W0YK

_

Ray W2RS wrote:

My KPA500 amplifi_es_ (file://\\es)  normally but seems to  have a 
switching problem on receive.  The receiver (I've tried several)  works fine
when 
the amp is turned off or when it is switched to STBY, but  when I switch the

KPA500 to OPER the receiver goes nearly dead as if there is no  antenna 
connected to it.  I tried resetting the KPA500 to factory menu  settings but
no 
change.  There is full output on transmit.
 
The KPA500 is still under warranty.  Is this a settings problem or  should 
I send it back?

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Ray W2RS via Elecraft]

Hi Jack,
 
No asterisk.
 
Tnx, Ray W2RS
 
 
In a message dated 6/21/2015 9:37:57 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,  
jackbrin...@me.com writes:

When you  switch to OPER, is there an asterisk on the left side of the LCD? 
This would  indicate that the PTT line is engaged or shorted. fix that 
connection and  things should return to normal.
There are several things that could be  causing the trouble you see. Work 
through them with Elecraft customer support  and you may avoid shipping the 
amp back.

- Jack Brindle,  W6FB

Sent from my iPad

 On Jun 21, 2015, at 8:16 AM, Ray  W2RS via Elecraft 
elecraft@mailman.qth.net wrote:
 
 My  KPA500 amplifi_es_ (file://\\es)  normally but seems to  have a  
 switching problem on receive.  The receiver (I've tried  several)  works 
fine when 
 the amp is turned off or when it is  switched to STBY, but  when I switch 
the 
 KPA500 to OPER the  receiver goes nearly dead as if there is no  antenna 
 connected  to it.  I tried resetting the KPA500 to factory menu  settings 
but  no 
 change.  There is full output on transmit.
 
  The KPA500 is still under warranty.  Is this a settings problem or   
should 
 I send it back?
 
 73 Ray W2RS
 
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[Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Ray W2RS via Elecraft]

My KPA500 amplifi_es_ (file://\\es)  normally but seems to  have a 
switching problem on receive.  The receiver (I've tried several)  works fine 
when 
the amp is turned off or when it is switched to STBY, but  when I switch the 
KPA500 to OPER the receiver goes nearly dead as if there is no  antenna 
connected to it.  I tried resetting the KPA500 to factory menu  settings but no 
change.  There is full output on transmit.
 
The KPA500 is still under warranty.  Is this a settings problem or  should 
I send it back?
 
73 Ray W2RS
 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jack Brindle]

When you switch to OPER, is there an asterisk on the left side of the LCD? This 
would indicate that the PTT line is engaged or shorted. fix that connection and 
things should return to normal.
There are several things that could be causing the trouble you see. Work 
through them with Elecraft customer support and you may avoid shipping the amp 
back.

- Jack Brindle, W6FB

Sent from my iPad

 On Jun 21, 2015, at 8:16 AM, Ray W2RS via Elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
 wrote:
 
 My KPA500 amplifi_es_ (file://\\es)  normally but seems to  have a 
 switching problem on receive.  The receiver (I've tried several)  works fine 
 when 
 the amp is turned off or when it is switched to STBY, but  when I switch the 
 KPA500 to OPER the receiver goes nearly dead as if there is no  antenna 
 connected to it.  I tried resetting the KPA500 to factory menu  settings but 
 no 
 change.  There is full output on transmit.
 
 The KPA500 is still under warranty.  Is this a settings problem or  should 
 I send it back?
 
 73 Ray W2RS
 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jack Brindle]

Call Customer Support tomorrow morning. They may have more suggestions for you. 
Worst case, you will need an RMA from them, but I really hope they can have you 
try something that I’m not thinking of at the moment to make it work.

- Jack B, W6FB


 On Jun 21, 2015, at 10:04 AM, Ray W2RS via Elecraft 
 elecraft@mailman.qth.net wrote:
 
 
 Hi Jack,
 
 No asterisk.
 
 Tnx, Ray W2RS
 
 
 In a message dated 6/21/2015 9:37:57 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,  
 jackbrin...@me.com writes:
 
 When you  switch to OPER, is there an asterisk on the left side of the LCD? 
 This would  indicate that the PTT line is engaged or shorted. fix that 
 connection and  things should return to normal.
 There are several things that could be  causing the trouble you see. Work 
 through them with Elecraft customer support  and you may avoid shipping the 
 amp back.
 
 - Jack Brindle,  W6FB
 
 Sent from my iPad
 
 On Jun 21, 2015, at 8:16 AM, Ray  W2RS via Elecraft 
 elecraft@mailman.qth.net wrote:
 
 My  KPA500 amplifi_es_ (file://\\es)  normally but seems to  have a  
 switching problem on receive.  The receiver (I've tried  several)  works 
 fine when 
 the amp is turned off or when it is  switched to STBY, but  when I switch 
 the 
 KPA500 to OPER the  receiver goes nearly dead as if there is no  antenna 
 connected  to it.  I tried resetting the KPA500 to factory menu  settings 
 but  no 
 change.  There is full output on transmit.
 
 The KPA500 is still under warranty.  Is this a settings problem or   
 should 
 I send it back?
 
 73 Ray W2RS
 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[w7aqk]

Barry and All,

Looks like you found the fix Barry.  Often the only way to really reset a 
microprocessor when it gets stuck is to completely disconnect all power 
from the unit.  On laptop computers I usually have to remove the battery as 
well.  Anyway, glad you solved the problem.


Dave W7AQK 


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[Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Barry Simpson]

Good morning all

My hitherto bomb proof KPA500 has just failed.

I went to 40m SSB to chase some DX. I pre-tuned the KAT500 via the K3 tune
facility and then called the DX.

During the call, the KAT500 started its continuous retuning issue (I
thought that problem had been resolved but apparently not) and the KPA500
tripped out.

The DX station still heard me and I worked him with what proved to be about
25w.

I then tried to reset the KPA500 but it will not go into transmit in the
Operate position and simply passes through the 25w driving power from the
K3.

There was no bang, smoke or burning smell and the PA voltage is still there.

Before I delve into the manual, has anyone any ideas ?

Thanks

Barry  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Jim Brown]

On Thu,9/25/2014 1:16 PM, Barry Simpson wrote:

Before I delve into the manual, has anyone any ideas ?


Put in a Skype call to Elecraft support?

73, Jim K9YC
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Barry Simpson]

Good suggestion Jim.

However, I tried turning the mains power switch (on the back of the KPA500)
off and on and that appears to have cured whatever the problem was. Now
back at full power.

Thanks for your input.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 26 September 2014 06:20, Jim Brown j...@audiosystemsgroup.com wrote:

 On Thu,9/25/2014 1:16 PM, Barry Simpson wrote:

 Before I delve into the manual, has anyone any ideas ?


 Put in a Skype call to Elecraft support?

 73, Jim K9YC
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Richard Squire - HB9ANM]

That's right, Fred and Mike - This is exactly what I have been mentioning
ever since I got my KPA500 a year ago. It only occurs when BND CHG is set to
STBY, which I think is safer. Elecraft was able to reproduce it and said it
would be corrected in a future release. The bug is supposed to be on the K3
side.
IMHO, this is important to all, rather than AM (seldom used) and ESSB (I'd
never do that!)

73
Richard - HB9ANM


AC6JA wrote
 Fred,
 There is a known firmware issue which causes the K3 to sometimes forget  
 to go back to 100W when switching the KPA500 from OPER to STBY.
 Mine has the same issue where I need to periodically reset the K3 PWR back  
 up to 100W when operating the KPA500 in STBY.  So far the K3 remembers to  
 go to the preset PWR output levels when the KPA500 is in OPER.
 Elecraft is supposed to address this issue in a future firmware  release.
  
 Mike  AC6JA
  





-
Richard - HB9ANM
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Gary Gregory]

*Same here on #679 and has been like it for a year or more I think?

the fix is to run OPER all the time which is not helpful if you need to use
a tuner...:-)

73
*
On 23 September 2012 18:23, Richard Squire - HB9ANM hb9...@bluewin.chwrote:

 That's right, Fred and Mike - This is exactly what I have been mentioning
 ever since I got my KPA500 a year ago. It only occurs when BND CHG is set
 to
 STBY, which I think is safer. Elecraft was able to reproduce it and said it
 would be corrected in a future release. The bug is supposed to be on the K3
 side.
 IMHO, this is important to all, rather than AM (seldom used) and ESSB (I'd
 never do that!)

 73
 Richard - HB9ANM


 AC6JA wrote
  Fred,
  There is a known firmware issue which causes the K3 to sometimes forget
  to go back to 100W when switching the KPA500 from OPER to STBY.
  Mine has the same issue where I need to periodically reset the K3 PWR
 back
  up to 100W when operating the KPA500 in STBY.  So far the K3 remembers to
  go to the preset PWR output levels when the KPA500 is in OPER.
  Elecraft is supposed to address this issue in a future firmware  release.
 
  Mike  AC6JA
 





 -
 Richard - HB9ANM
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-- 
*Gary*
*Start the day off slow, then taper off.*
K3 #679
KPA500FT #18
KAT500FT 007
P3 #1629
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Richard Squire - HB9ANM]

Yes, Bob. This is a very accurate description of the problem.

Bob Cunnings NW8L wrote
 I experience a similar thing. With KPA500 BAND CHG set to STBY and
 using the KPA500 band buttons to change bands, it happens if the
 KPA500 goes from OPER to STBY on band change. Elecraft support
 confirmed the issue and said that it would be fixed in the next K3
 firmware release.
 
 Bob NW8L





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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[VK7JB]

So if this is a known issue that's been present for a year in the life of a
new product, one claim of which is tight integration into a chain of
products, what's the expected time frame to resolution?  I just bought a
KPA500 precisely because of this integration but I see now I'll face this
problem, because I run a manual tuner. 

Hopefully they're on to it for the next release. 

John
VK7JB






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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Richard Squire - HB9ANM]

Don't worry, John, you can still use the K3 buttons as usual to change bands,
but I would still recommend setting BND CHG to STBY on the KPA500 for safety
if you are using a manual tuner.
Glad to see the issue is now receiving so much feedback!
A word in Wayne's ear before Eric has to end the thread, hi!

73
Richard  HB9ANM

VK7JB wrote
 So if this is a known issue that's been present for a year in the life of
 a new product, one claim of which is tight integration into a chain of
 products, what's the expected time frame to resolution?  I just bought a
 KPA500 precisely because of this integration but I see now I'll face this
 problem, because I run a manual tuner. 
 
 Hopefully they're on to it for the next release. 
 
 John
 VK7JB





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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Joe Hutchens]

Did you find your problem?  Any fault codes?

I suggest contacting supp...@elecraft.com, but if were me, I'd check all 
internal connections first and do a quick visual.  I suspect a problem 
with the elaborate TR switching circuit or something that controls it.

I see a couple 51 ohm resistors on the schematic at the input to the PA 
module, so if the TR switch was working, I would NOT expect hi reflected 
power to the rig with no power out of the AMP.

Joe Hutchens  ( AJ8MH )
http://webpages.charter.net/aj8mh-radio/


On Fri, Sep 21, 2012 at 8:01 PM, Phillip Shepard wrote:

 I put my new KPA500 (s/n 1057) together earlier this week and have 
 been
 loving it, although it has seen only light use so far.

 However, that changed this afternoon.  I used it briefly on 40m LSB a 
 few
 hours ago and all was fine.  About 35w of drive for 550w out.  I just
 retuned the antenna to the low end of the band, yielding a 1.0:1 SWR 
 at the
 K3 in the standby mode of the KPA500.  When I switched the amp to 
 operate
 and keyed the transmitter (tune control), the amp power LEDs jumped up 
 to
 about 500w and then went to 0.  Subsequent keying  show a very high 
 SWR at
 the K3 (65 to 99:1) and the K3 puts out no power as does the KPA500. 
 I
 tried a dummy load with the same result.  If the amp is in standby 
 mode the
 K3 acts right and the power and SWR LEDs on the KPA500 act right (100w 
 out
 at a low SWR).  Putting the amp into operate mode acts like the input 
 SWR is
 very high.

 I tried tightening up the cables at both ends (BTW, I am using the 
 control
 cable between the rig and amp for maximum integration, and the K3 
 knows to
 reduce the power out when the amp is in operate).

 I hope I am doing something wrong, and the fix is simple.  Any 
 suggestions
 of where to begin?  Thank you.

 73,
 Phil, NS7P

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Fred Jensen]

On 9/21/2012 5:01 PM, Phillip Shepard wrote:

 I tried tightening up the cables at both ends (BTW, I am using the control
 cable between the rig and amp for maximum integration, and the K3 knows to
 reduce the power out when the amp is in operate).

That is not totally true, for me at least.  I went through all bands and 
set up the power with and without the KPA500.  99% of the time, going 
anywhere with the KPA500 in stby, I get 100W from the K3.  97% of the 
time, then going to oper, I get 500W from the KPA500.

Roughly 3% of the time, after tuning the external ant coupler [REALLY 
anxious for the KAT500!], putting the amp in oper gives me TUNE pwr [5W 
for me] from the K3, and around 60 W from the 500.  So far, the only way 
I've found to get it back to normal is to rotate the PWR knob back to 27 
or so watts.

1% of the time, or even less, going to oper on the KPA500 leaves the K3 
power at 100W.  First tap on the paddle lights everything up, and it 
shuts down with the fault light on.  On a couple of occasions, I have 
had to unplug the KPA500 for a minute or so.  None of this is 
reproducible, at least in the time I'm willing to spend trying to 
reproduce it.  It just happens, sort of on every third Thursday after 
the first full moon after the equinox.

I would really like the display B messages on the K3 to show the power 
it is going to transmit with the next time I tap the paddle when the 
KPA500 switches between STBY and OPER.  I have my KPA500 set to go to 
STBY on band change so this is a fairly frequent activity.

73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the 2012 Cal QSO Party 6-7 Oct 2012
- www.cqp.org


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Fred Jensen]

On 9/22/2012 3:05 PM, Bill K9YEQ wrote:
 Fred,

 More than likely you are changing freqs and the amplifier/K3 are folding
 back power based on detected antenna complex loading issues. Until the
 KAT500 becomes available, you don't need 100 watts on any band to get 500W
 out!  Back off your per band settings and test.  Whatever you are using for
 your tuner, I would suspect it is not matching.

I think I wasn't clear Bill, and unfortunately, it's not the first time. 
:-)  The KPA500 wants between 25 and 30 watts, depending on band for 500 
watts out.  The irreproducible problem I described seems to be in the 
dual-power memories in the K3.  The most common manifestation is:

1.  KPA500 -- STBY, usually because I punched up a new band on it.

2.  K3 TUNE:  Mine is 5W.  I tune up the antenna coupler [MFJ 989-C], 
SWR=1:1

3.  KPA500 -- OPER, because I pressed the switch

4.  K3 TUNE:  SWR still 1:1, but now into the KPA500 of course, output 
power around 60W [still 5W tune power from the K3]

5.  Tap K3 TUNE, now I'm receiving and ready to TX.  KPA500 is in OPER. 
  K3 should have gone to 25-30W depending on the band.  Start to send, 
KPA500 output is still around 60W [and the DX calls someone else], and 
when I move the K3 PWR knob to check the setting, it is still at 5W. 
The only way I've found to get it back to the 25-30W range is to turn 
the PWR knob.

This only happens every now and then, more often then than now, nearly 
all the time it works as expected ... ending TUNE on the K3 sets the 
power to 25-30W if the KPA500 is in OPER, 100W if it isn't.  If I had to 
guess [hardly ever a productive troubleshooting technique], it looks 
like the power memories are fine, the K3 is just missing some signal to 
tell it to go into normal operate mode with an active KPA500.

The reverse problem ... running barefoot at 100W and I put the KPA500 
into OPER [using the front panel switch] because the DX isn't answering 
me [and I'm going to show these clods in the pile!] and the K3 stays at 
100W [lighting up the 500 :-)] has happened a few times, not nearly as 
often as the reverse problem described above.

I've tried re-seating the big cable between the KPA500 and K3 several 
times, once with a drop of DeOxit into the contacts, with essentially no 
change.

Since I can't make it happen on command, I'm loath to do much more than 
mention it here, and maybe should stop that.  I sent my K2 to Don once 
with what I perceived as a clear problem, he spent a lot of time for 
which I'm sure he did not charge me, and couldn't make it fail.  It's 
never happened again, in fact I managed NH8S just before QRT with K2 @ 
5W to my new AlexLoop out on our deck.

73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the 2012 Cal QSO Party 6-7 Oct 2012
- www.cqp.org

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[AC6JA]

Fred,
There is a known firmware issue which causes the K3 to sometimes forget  
to go back to 100W when switching the KPA500 from OPER to STBY.
Mine has the same issue where I need to periodically reset the K3 PWR back  
up to 100W when operating the KPA500 in STBY.  So far the K3 remembers to  
go to the preset PWR output levels when the KPA500 is in OPER.
Elecraft is supposed to address this issue in a future firmware  release.
 
Mike  AC6JA
 
 
 
In a message dated 9/22/2012 4:31:41 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time,  
k6...@foothill.net writes:

On  9/22/2012 3:05 PM, Bill K9YEQ wrote:
 Fred,

 More than  likely you are changing freqs and the amplifier/K3 are folding
 back  power based on detected antenna complex loading issues. Until the
  KAT500 becomes available, you don't need 100 watts on any band to get  
500W
 out!  Back off your per band settings and test.   Whatever you are using 
for
 your tuner, I would suspect it is not  matching.

I think I wasn't clear Bill, and unfortunately, it's not the  first time. 
:-)  The KPA500 wants between 25 and 30 watts, depending  on band for 500 
watts out.  The irreproducible problem I described  seems to be in the 
dual-power memories in the K3.  The most common  manifestation is:

1.  KPA500 -- STBY, usually because I  punched up a new band on it.

2.  K3 TUNE:  Mine is 5W.   I tune up the antenna coupler [MFJ 989-C], 
SWR=1:1

3.  KPA500  -- OPER, because I pressed the switch

4.  K3 TUNE:  SWR  still 1:1, but now into the KPA500 of course, output 
power around 60W  [still 5W tune power from the K3]

5.  Tap K3 TUNE, now I'm  receiving and ready to TX.  KPA500 is in OPER. 
K3 should have  gone to 25-30W depending on the band.  Start to send, 
KPA500 output  is still around 60W [and the DX calls someone else], and 
when I move the  K3 PWR knob to check the setting, it is still at 5W. 
The only way I've  found to get it back to the 25-30W range is to turn 
the PWR  knob.

This only happens every now and then, more often then than now,  nearly 
all the time it works as expected ... ending TUNE on the K3 sets  the 
power to 25-30W if the KPA500 is in OPER, 100W if it isn't.  If I  had to 
guess [hardly ever a productive troubleshooting technique], it  looks 
like the power memories are fine, the K3 is just missing some signal  to 
tell it to go into normal operate mode with an active  KPA500.

The reverse problem ... running barefoot at 100W and I put the  KPA500 
into OPER [using the front panel switch] because the DX isn't  answering 
me [and I'm going to show these clods in the pile!] and the K3  stays at 
100W [lighting up the 500 :-)] has happened a few times, not  nearly as 
often as the reverse problem described above.

I've tried  re-seating the big cable between the KPA500 and K3 several 
times, once  with a drop of DeOxit into the contacts, with essentially no  
change.

Since I can't make it happen on command, I'm loath to do  much more than 
mention it here, and maybe should stop that.  I sent  my K2 to Don once 
with what I perceived as a clear problem, he spent a lot  of time for 
which I'm sure he did not charge me, and couldn't make it  fail.  It's 
never happened again, in fact I managed NH8S just before  QRT with K2 @ 
5W to my new AlexLoop out on our  deck.

73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
-  CU in the 2012 Cal QSO Party 6-7 Oct 2012
-  www.cqp.org

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Bob Cunnings]

I experience a similar thing. With KPA500 BAND CHG set to STBY and
using the KPA500 band buttons to change bands, it happens if the
KPA500 goes from OPER to STBY on band change. Elecraft support
confirmed the issue and said that it would be fixed in the next K3
firmware release.

Bob NW8L

Fred,
There is a known firmware issue which causes the K3 to sometimes forget
to go back to 100W when switching the KPA500 from OPER to STBY.
Mine has the same issue where I need to periodically reset the K3 PWR back
up to 100W when operating the KPA500 in STBY.  So far the K3 remembers to
go to the preset PWR output levels when the KPA500 is in OPER.
Elecraft is supposed to address this issue in a future firmware  release.

Mike  AC6JA
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[Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Phillip Shepard]

I put my new KPA500 (s/n 1057) together earlier this week and have been
loving it, although it has seen only light use so far.

However, that changed this afternoon.  I used it briefly on 40m LSB a few
hours ago and all was fine.  About 35w of drive for 550w out.  I just
retuned the antenna to the low end of the band, yielding a 1.0:1 SWR at the
K3 in the standby mode of the KPA500.  When I switched the amp to operate
and keyed the transmitter (tune control), the amp power LEDs jumped up to
about 500w and then went to 0.  Subsequent keying  show a very high SWR at
the K3 (65 to 99:1) and the K3 puts out no power as does the KPA500.  I
tried a dummy load with the same result.  If the amp is in standby mode the
K3 acts right and the power and SWR LEDs on the KPA500 act right (100w out
at a low SWR).  Putting the amp into operate mode acts like the input SWR is
very high.

I tried tightening up the cables at both ends (BTW, I am using the control
cable between the rig and amp for maximum integration, and the K3 knows to
reduce the power out when the amp is in operate).

I hope I am doing something wrong, and the fix is simple.  Any suggestions
of where to begin?  Thank you.

73,
Phil, NS7P

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Scott Manthe]

Is this behavior present on all bands or just 40 meters? You might try 
using the KPA500 without the control cable, as well.

73,
Scott, N9AA


On 9/21/12 8:01 PM, Phillip Shepard wrote:
 I put my new KPA500 (s/n 1057) together earlier this week and have been
 loving it, although it has seen only light use so far.

 However, that changed this afternoon.  I used it briefly on 40m LSB a few
 hours ago and all was fine.  About 35w of drive for 550w out.  I just
 retuned the antenna to the low end of the band, yielding a 1.0:1 SWR at the
 K3 in the standby mode of the KPA500.  When I switched the amp to operate
 and keyed the transmitter (tune control), the amp power LEDs jumped up to
 about 500w and then went to 0.  Subsequent keying  show a very high SWR at
 the K3 (65 to 99:1) and the K3 puts out no power as does the KPA500.  I
 tried a dummy load with the same result.  If the amp is in standby mode the
 K3 acts right and the power and SWR LEDs on the KPA500 act right (100w out
 at a low SWR).  Putting the amp into operate mode acts like the input SWR is
 very high.

 I tried tightening up the cables at both ends (BTW, I am using the control
 cable between the rig and amp for maximum integration, and the K3 knows to
 reduce the power out when the amp is in operate).

 I hope I am doing something wrong, and the fix is simple.  Any suggestions
 of where to begin?  Thank you.

 73,
 Phil, NS7P



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[Elecraft] KPA500 problem

[Jay]

Took two days to put this kit together and unfortunately it is dead.  
Too many things are happening to describe, but Dale is helping and 
hopefully in another week it will be on the air.  Guess I'm not used to 
building something w/o a soldering iron. :-)

Jay, W6JDB
K2/100, K3, P3  maybe KPA500 (to sub for SB221)
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