[Elecraft] KAT1 tuning cycle.

[Ron Willcocks]

Hi,
      I just built a KAT1 to put in the K1 I am taking to Norfolk Island 
soon, and while it appears to work just fine, and remembers the setting of 
my dipoles ( which have a low SWR in the CW portions) but I have to wonder 
at how long it takes to tune, if I string the likes of a random length of 
wire to it and try to get a match. (working it to a good earth peg)
It "buzzes" away in what appears to be a timed run, and starts at 9.9SWR 
and works down, reaching the ultimate setting it will record and then 
carries on buzzing for a few more seconds.  Those little relays in there 
seem to be working their butts off....
I only ask this , as the KAT2 makes a match on the same antenna with 
considerably less fuss. ( I am aware the KAT1 tuner does not have the same 
L/C combinations as the KAT2)
Just thought I would try the "random wire" as I am taking 1/2w center fed 
antennas with me as well for 80/40/30, but not knowing the layout of where 
I am staying, a wire thrown over a tree might be handy.............
I'll have to say the match it ultimately obtains checks out pretty close on 
the KAT2 as well, but should there be all that activity when a tune is 
initiated? I guess if I used a 1/4 w instead of a random length, with 
slightly longer radials it might be better perhaps?
Perhaps I worry too much............. :-(
Cheers......Ron ZL1TW      ( will be VK9BRW from 1/11/05 to 10/11/05)
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