[Elecraft] KAT100 performance vs. competition

[Wayne Burdick]

Someone asked me how the KAT100 would compare in tuning times and
impedance-matching range to another very well-known auto-tuner kit. 

Tuning times: 

We can't report exact figures yet, but early testing shows an average
tune time of around 2.5 seconds. Very rarely does a tune-up take more
than 5 seconds. These times compare favorably to the competing unit.
Tune times may drop further once we begin optimizing the firmware.

However, the important thing to keep in mind (with both the KAT100 and
the KAT2) is that the L/C settings for *both* antennas, on all bands,
are recalled instantly once initial tune-ups have been completed. The
new settings take effect immediately, in receive mode. You don't have to
key the transmitter. 

Switching from antenna 1 to antenna 2 takes about a quarter of a second,
allowing you to A/B test on receive or transmit as often as you'd like.
Of course this comparison is not relevant to the competing unit, which
has only one antenna jack.

Matching range: 

The KAT100 will handle a wider range in most cases because we used
capacitors rated at 1600 and 2000 volts, vs. 500 volts in the competing
unit. These high-voltage caps will also survive exposure to very high
peak power levels, well in excess of what the KPA100 is capable of.

Detailed specifications for the KAT100 will be posted next month.

73,
Wayne
N6KR


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http://www.elecraft.com