[Elecraft] K2 + SignalLink: Setting gains for digital modes

[Don Wilhelm]

Chris,

For data modes with the K2, there is an indication in the K2 itself that 
should prevent splattering.  That is the ALC meter.
Turn the RF/ALC meter to read ALC, then adjust your audio level until 
you see the LED display blinking the 10th bar of the LED indicator - 
then back off the gain a bit until that 10th LED flickering goes away.  
At that point, your audio level is correct.

Now adjust the power knob to your desired power output level and operate.

I do suggest that you set up the RTTY filter set and use those filters 
for data modes because the SSBC menu item is independent of the SSB 
setting.  Set SSBCr to 1:1 (the SSBC parameter for SSB can be set to 
anything desired for voice).  That will assure that you have compression 
turned off for data modes.

73,
Don W3FPR
On 4/14/2013 12:25 PM, Chris Kimball wrote:
> I operate digital modes with the K2/KPA with a SignalLink computer interface.
> The SignalLink drives the microphone input to the K2.  The K2 has
> compression turned off (1:1) and a mike gain of 3.  The SignalLink computer
> interface is at 100% gains on both sides and the SignalLink has the default
> internal gain jumpers.
>
> I get occasional comments that I'm splattering, a very serious concern.
> Unfortunately I lack instrumentation to study the problem.
>
> How should I set the audio (SignalLink) drive gain and the RF (K2 Power)
> drive? My normal operation is not smoke-producing, so this is not a
> duty-cycle question.
>
> Thanks,
>
>