[Elecraft] K3: Using the MFJ-998 IntelliTuner

[Phil Hystad]

Steve,

Thanks for your quick reply.  Your solution sounds good to me.  But, this means that you keep the 998 in auto-tune mode, right?  Do you have any issues or problems with it auto-tuning during a single frequency QSO (that is, once tuned)?

Another problem I have is that I want to run two rigs (switched of course) with a common auto-tuner.  Apparently, the rather nice (and more expensive) Palstar AT-AUTO requires a firmware reconfiguration for a different rig driving it.  I still have some questions outstanding and pending with Palstar on this issue but if this is not resolved, the Palstar is out.  Currently, I am looking at both the Palstar and the MFJ.  

I also like the fact that the MFJ 998 does not force an internal balun on you for a second antenna.  My desired second antenna is another coax fed antenna so that is another problem with the Palstar.

73, phil, K7PEH


On Jan 30, 2010, at 11:04 AM, Steve Ellington wrote:

> I have the MFJ-998, K3 combo. No...There is no direct interface between them as there is with the import rigs. The K3 doesn't provide an input that automatically keys the rig at low power. This is not really a problem, just a difference in design. With the K3, you disable it's internal tuner from the front panel. When you want to activate the 998, you depress the "tune" button on the K3. The K3 automatically outputs a preset power level, I use 15 watts, into the 998. The 998 responds and quickly finds a match if possible.
> The 998 has it's own "tune" button but this won't work with the K3 since as I said, there is no interface. Actually, I prefer using the K3's tune button anyway. This allows the 998 to be installed some distance from the K3, even at the antenna in a weather proof environment. 73
> Steve
> N4LQ
> ----- Original Message ----- From: "Phil Hystad" <k7peh at comcast.net>
> To: "Elecraft Discussion List" <Elecraft at mailman.qth.net>
> Sent: Saturday, January 30, 2010 1:46 PM
> Subject: [Elecraft] K3: Using the MFJ-998 IntelliTuner
> 
> 
>> Does anyone use an MFJ-998 IntelliTuner with their K3 that includes the ATU?
>> 
>> If so, does the K3 interface to the MFJ-998 in a supported fashion where the tune button on the K3 would control the MFJ-998 instead of the internal tuner.
>> 
>> phil, K7PEH
>> 
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