[Elecraft] K3 and QSK

[Ed Muns]

> The K2 TEST mode inhibits TX in CW, but it doesn't affect SSB 
> or RTTY modes, only CW and TUNE.  I see the K3 has a TEST 
> button which in the quickstart is listed under SSB mode as 
> alowing "off the air 
> adjustments."   I hope it applies to all modes, including CW. 

Yes, the TX/TEST feature in the K3 works in all modes.  All it does is
prevent RF being transmitted.  The rest of the TX functions as normal.  You
can use it in SSB, for example, to set your MIC and CMP settings and listen
in the MONITOR and adjust its level, all without going to a dummy load or
transmitting RF to an antenna.  A very nice K2 feature, further enhanced in
the K3, and it is very handy.

>   For me, 
> an across the board TEST gate makes more sense than saying 
> QSK mode = QRT.

Different issue entirely.  There are a number of operational scenarios
needing to gate CW transmission (on AND OFF) with PTT/footswitch.

73,
Ed - W0YK