[Elecraft] KX3 - Factory Testing identical to Kit Testing?

[Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft]

Hi Richard,

While we do test and align the PCB boards identically on the kit and 
factory assembled KX3s, we do further testing on the assembled units to 
insure that we built them perfectly.

Assembled KX3s are given an preliminary TX and RX test after assembly, 
followed by a multi-hour burn in rack test. There under computer control 
we stress test the KX3 by transmitting key down on each band while 
checking temperature, current and power out and also check tuning of the 
ATU on each band. This occurs in a repetitive fashion - cycling through 
the bands - for a minimum of 8 hours. After passing burn-in, the 
assembled KX3 goes to final test on a technicians lab bench, where we 
test all RX and TX parameters on all bands, including RX sensitivity, TX 
power, Current drain in TX, TX IMD etc. We also do tests on the SSB 
audio, CW keying, receive audio and a number of other parameters. Each 
added option is also tested in the KX3.

In general we see few failures in burn-in or final test, due to our 
extensive testing of the PC boards before assembly (and before packaging 
them into kits).

73,

Eric
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www.elecraft.com

On 1/4/2013 12:01 PM, Richard wrote:
> Hello,
> I will purchase a new KX3 from Elecraft Sales in a week or two.
> If the factory testing upon final assembly is more comprehensive than 
> what is in the kit assembly manual, it might persuade me to buy the 
> Factory Assembled version. Is any extra factory testing performed?