[Elecraft] K3 S-Meter and Noise

[Bill W4ZV]

Don Wilhelm-4 wrote:
> 
> If you are doing weak signal work or working on a crowded band, I 
> suggest you opt for the maximum dynamic range by reducing the RF Gain 
> (and advance the AF Gain) so you can just barely hear the band noise.  
> But if your current operation is more casual, run the RF Gain at max and 
> you will have valid S-meter readings.
> 

I recommend backing off RF Gain until your S-meter is right at the point
where noise is flickering the display.  For example if noise is S3-S4, back
off RF Gain so that the S-meter reads a constant S4.  Then AGC will not be
trying to function on weaker signals so you will be maximizing dynamic range
above the noise threshold.  Of course this also assumes you're already using
the least gain that will give you band noise (i.e. ATTenuator, OFF and
PREamplifier preferred in that order) when an antenna is connected.

This is the way it was done it in the pre-DSP analog radio era.  Elecraft
makes it very easy to set the proper RF Gain setting in a DSP rig by backing
off the S-meter when reducing gain.

73,  Bill

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