[Elecraft] Low SSB TX power on K2 - REPAIRED !!!

[N9KO]

The problem has been solved, thanks to the sleuthing of Bill, NY9H.  It 
turns out that the problem was a shorted crystal (X3 or X5).  Once the 
solder was removed and then properly soldered, the K2 transmits normally in 
SSB. We made a quick QSO with a station in Miami verifying that it is 
properly working.   So, if you have low ssb TX and all voltage readings are 
'normal', double-check the crystals for being shorted-out.

Thanks to Bill, NY9H and all of those who responded with suggestions.

Cal
N9KO

----- Original Message ----- 
From: N9KO
To: Elecraft at mailman.qth.net
Sent: Wednesday, July 05, 2006 10:48 AM
Subject: Low SSB TX power on K2


I recently picked up an older K2 # 185.  It's had all the important 
Elecraft-recommended performance mods and Alerts applied, including the "A 
to B" upgrade.   The rig works FB on CW.  I am disappointed with the SSB 
performance, even after using three mikes (and changed mike pin jumpers).  I 
scanned the email reflector and decided to do voltage checks of the ICs and 
diodes on the SSB board.   The SSB board is Rev. C. There is no reading on 
the S-meter when I transmit, and no reading on ALC.   I do get a very weak 
signal when I used each of the three mikes and listened on my other rig.  I 
also transmitted PSK and again get a weak signal, however, the IMD was -23. 
A couple of hams within 5 miles said they heard me on 20 meter SSB, but just 
at the noise level.  Another ham who lives about 10 miles away could not 
hear me, but I heard him calling me.  Firmware is 2.01H and IOC 1.02.