[Elecraft] auto-tuner needs more radio output to tune

[Dave]

Sorry, I probably missed some previous discussion, but I too have LDG auto 
tuners and one of them needed more than 5W to operate it (In fact that unit 
is dead at the moment, I changed the microprocessor and all was OK until I 
left it on the shelf for a few months and now it doesn't work anymore). 
However, I would have thought that the one designed to be used with the 
FT-817 should work with the KX3 as that Yaesu model is a 5W output rig as 
well.  I can't say for certain, as I've never used a Z-11, but it would seem 
logical.  Unless the Z-11 interfaces to the FT-817 via command lines other 
than just RF output?

That can be a problem I know, as I also have an LDG KT-100 which I sometimes 
use with my Kenwood TS-2000X and that uses control lines from the Kenwood to 
get information that it needs in order to operate correctly.

To be frank, I've not had much luck with auto tuners.  They either seem to 
just be designed to match out the slight discrepancy between "50 ohm" 
outputs and supposedly resonant antennas, or they give up the ghost when you 
upgrade them (no offence meant to Elecraft, I've not used their tuners.  In 
fact I decided to avoid using an intenal tuner again after recent 
experiences).  Even well known designs have their limitations.  I have 
Z-Matches from various manufacturers, L and T designs and various other 
stuff in storage here that I've tried and found wanting for various reasons. 
Some seem to be the ultimate dummy load - 50 ohm resistive input but little 
real output.  Again, I am not talking about any Elecraft designs here, but 
if you look around the literature and dig under the hype, you begin to 
wonder what is really going on.

Dave (G0DJA)

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Julie Royster" Sent: Sunday, October 13, 2013 5:01 PM
Subject: [Elecraft] auto-tuner needs more radio output to tune


> The LDG tech support folks say that a 5-watt KX3 output is not enough to
> trigger tuning by their product.
> We will eventually have the Elecraft tuner for KX3 when it ships, but for
> now what selection of modes & power etc on KX3 would give me the
> highest-wattage signal for the autotuner?  If I understand it correctly, 
> PSK
> and CW are limited to 5 watts by the KX3, right?
> THANKS in advance!
> Julie KT4JR