[Elecraft] KXPD1 [plus KXAT1 comment]

[Phil Wheeler]

DYARNES@aol.com wrote:

>So, in short, the KXPD1 is a definite winner!  It allows you to send darn 
>good CW, and it really is a fine piece of workmanship.  As someone else pointed 
>out, it is not a Schurr Profi, but for my money it is a bunch better than just 
>about any other option for taking a rig to the field.  If you are much of a 
>traveler, this is the ticket!  I'm happy!
>

Dave,

Thanks for the extensive review.

I agree with your comments.  I would have not bought the KX1 without it: 
I like the total integration and not having more wires and a separate 
key (normally I lug a Schurr Portable Wabbler with the K1).  Price?  
Could be lower, I guess, looking at other lightweight paddles out 
there.  But they all: (1) Need some sort of mounting base or attachment 
to the rig; (2) Add wires to the mix.  So I am quite happy with the KXPD1.

The part of the KX1 I would like to be more robust is the KXAT1 ATU.  My 
results are "spotty".  It wil tune some amazingly bad matches.  OTOH -- 
now I have a Superantennas PW-1 clamped to a post on the front porch 
with a pair of 17 ft or so radials.  Loads great on 20 but abyssmally on 
40 with the KX1 (e.g., 5:1 after tuning); this after using an analyzer 
to get the dip at 7040 (but the impedance is NOT 50 ohms!).  By contrast 
the K1 nails it on both bands with no sweat -- and by just using marks 
on the coil for adjustment vs. an analyzer.

Alas, I suspect this is due to the limited L-C range and inherent in the 
small size.  When I have time I will do some VA-1 measurements on the 
antenna set for 40 and see what the KXAT1 L and C are to verify, since 
it is conceivable that a firmware change could help.

73, Phil