[Elecraft] S meter calibration

[Jonathan Taylor, K1RFD]

>> The RST report is not intended to be tied to S-meter reading.

Technically that is true, but there are indeed some historical connections
between the two, suggesting that S-meters were originally calibrated (and
named) after the S in RST.  A very interesting discussion of this topic is
at http://www.cebik.com/rst.html .

There is also the question of whether modern rigs with good AGC, such as the
K2, make it difficult to assign 9 different levels of strength just by ear.
(Should signal strength be judged relative to the noise level?  I can see
good arguments both ways.)

In my opinion, the most important item is readability (not strength), yet
this is the least accurately reported.  How often do you hear ("5 and 5, but
say again your name")?

If a station has a moderately strong signal, but QRM is making it
considerably difficult to copy, the correct report would be "379 QRM" on CW.
Then the other op would know he should send everything twice!

>> Most of QRP rigs except Elecraft do not have meters!

Are you saying the K2 is a QRP rig?  ;>

73,
Jonathan K1RFD
K2 #2462