[Elecraft] CW power output and remote tuners

[Jim Brown]

On 12/20/2013 7:22 PM, Mini Builder wrote:
> My reasoning for thinking that I need a remote tuner is that
> 1. It’s recommended in about every reference I've seen, and B.

That's probably because the writers aren't good engineers. See below.

> What’s the
> alternative?

Coax to a turner in the shack. Depending on the type of coax, the length 
of the coax and the degree of mismatch, loss in the coax may be a lot 
less than you think. If you're going to put the tuner in the shack, 
spend the money for bigger coax -- a good RG8 or RG213 designed for 
transmitting that has a robust copper braid shield.


> I assume it means going straight to coax (probably through a
> balun)

Not a balun, a common mode choke.  See http://k9yc.com\RFI-Ham.pdf

> at the feed point, and putting up with whatever mismatch there is,
> correct? Anyone know how much of a mismatch the K3 can handle? I know it's around 10:1 SWR, but what about impedance?
>
> Yes, I know about the importance of a good ground on an inverted-L,

Ground is the wrong word, and the wrong concept. What is needed is a 
good radial field, or, second best, a good counterpoise. Indeed, a 
connection to the earth degrades antenna performance!

See the piece on my website about getting on 160M from a small lot. It's 
mostly about antennas, and the radial/counterpoise concept is thoroughly 
discussed.  http://k9yc.com\publish.htm  Obviously, divide the lengths 
by 2 for 80M, by 4 for 40M, and so on. While you're on that website, 
take a look at the Power Point about "If I Could Mount My HF Vertical on 
My Roof, Should I?" And the "remote tuner or tuner in the shack?" is 
addressed in the Power Point about the 43 Ft vertical.

Welcome back to the hobby!  Antennas are one of the most fun parts for 
me. (Contesting is first.)

73, Jim K9YC