[Elecraft] Re: K2 #3421 finished

[Wayne Burdick]

David Pratt wrote:

> In a recent message, lbailey@aep.com said....
> 
> >I've been working on the 100 watt amp for quite a while.  Actually, it
> >lies idle.
> 
> That is the best place for it, Lynn.  It is much more of an achievement
> working stuff on QRP.  Reading on here, it seems that the 100W PA
> introduces various snags like frequency instability and birdies which
> are not present when using the K2 barefoot.

David,

As a Western Orthodox QRPer I can empathize with the desire to use low power  ;)

However, the KPA100 is very useful with less than exciting antennas or when the
bands are less than perky. It would be a shame not to complete it unless you're
building a collection of unbuilt Elecraft kits (we would all be flattered over
this). 

Anyone who has an issue with PA-heat-induced frequency drift can now install our
new PLL upgrade at very low cost. The PLL upgrade was added to new kits as of
two days ago, free of charge. (The BFO mod from months back is also highly
recommended. The BFO mod is already present in any K2 with s/n 3000 up.) These
two changes together provide excellent stability even in demanding thermal
environments or under heavy PA use.

As for birdies: the high-voltage bias oscillator will produce a few very weak
ones, much like those found in most other rigs. As always we are continually
trying to improve our products, this one included. If we find a way to further
reduce the remaining weak birdies, we'll certainly let everyone know right away,
and will update the kit.

73,
Wayne
N6KR