[Elecraft] KX3 power reverts from 10W back to 5W

[Don Wilhelm]

Arno,

Even though the battery voltage measures (as an average) at 11.7 volts 
during transmit, my suspicion is that it may be "glitching" for brief 
periods below 11 volts and the detection circuit trips forcing the KX3 
to low power.

Check all the connections to your power source and make certain they are 
"wrench tight" for a starting effort.

The other thing to check are the connections in the antenna system. 
Again, a loose connection can cause  a 'glitch' to a higher SWR. PL-259 
connections that are simply 'finger tightened' are possible suspects, 
snug them up a bit with pliers.  Unlike BNC, N, TNC, etc, PL-259s depend 
on being tight to make the shield connection.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 8/30/2013 1:50 PM, Arno Dienhart wrote:
> I would like to come back to this topic with an update after still
> experiencing the same issue.
>
> I now use my ZS6BKW with a 1:1 current balun between the twin line and the
> coax. I have tried a 70' and a 30' length of coax to the rig. If you think
> it will solve the problem, I might even try a 5' length and smolder in the
> sun!
>
> My battery shows 11.4 V during transmit on the KX3's PS meter.
>
> SWRs are never higher than 1.3:1 after tuning.
>
> PA temperatures are never very high (sitting in the shade).
>
> I have tried lower W settings, like 8W, which, on some bands, hold for a
> while. On other bands, they too revert back to 5W.
>
> So, if this is all normal, I don't understand why the KX3 is rated at 10W.
> Or asking in a different way: what needs to be present to keep the
> transmitter from reverting down from 10W, and how can I achieve that state
> with my setup?
>
> Please keep in mind that I don't have any antenna analyzing instruments
> other than what the KX3 provides.
>
> Thank you and 73,
>
> Arno K7RNO
>
>