[Elecraft] ATU vs. External Tuner

[John W2XS]

With a direct connection from the rig to the ladder line, there may be a
balance issue on some bands.  At least that is what I saw with my antenna
without a balun. I used an MFJ Balanced RF Current Meter to see this.  The
SWR was always 1 to 1 so you cannot tell if there is unbalance unless you
specifically measure for it.

I have recently tried a Balun Designs "Tuner" balun and it seems pretty good
from a total current flow and also balance standpoint.  I put the RF Current
results with the Balun Designs balun on my website (see QRZ.com for the
link). I have replaced my Johnson Matchbox with the KAT3 and Balun Designs
balun.

I am happy that I can use the KAT3 with its tuner settings memory for each
band.  QSY is really easy now with no extra tune up needed. The balun does
not seem to heat up so I assume that the loss is relatively low.

73,
John W2XS



I use a low doublet of 2 x 88ft straight into the K3 antenna PL via a short
length of ladder line.  OK 10 - 160
David
G3UNA

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