[Elecraft] ALC and External Power Amplifiers (K2)

[Vic Rosenthal]

Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:
> In general we and a number of manufacturers do not recommend using ALC 
> between the rig and amplifier since it almost always ends up causing 
> significant problems with overshoot etc. when the rig relies on the 
> amplifier to limit its drive power. This in turn leads to key clicks on 
> CW and more splatter on SSB.

That is correct -- ALC should not be used in normal operation.

However, it can be a valuable safety feature.  For example, my amp 
requires about 50w drive to produce 1500w output.  I don't know what 
would happen (and don't want to find out) if I were to have my K2/100 
set for 100w and then forget to turn the power down before activating 
the amp!

Vic K2VCO