[Elecraft] JT/heatsinks

[Howard Hoyt]

Hi all,

Since the subject of both JT modes and heatsinks cropped up recently in 
the same Elecraft digest, I will share that my JT customers are very 
happy with the increased frequency stability after installing the 
PAE-Kx31 heatsink.  Several say they can now use JT65 in contests at 
10-12 watts which they could not without the heatsink. This is due to 
removing most of the heat from the PA FETs to the air instead of letting 
it soak into the KX3 case.

In a KX3 without a heatsink the case becomes much warmer, and this heat 
conducts and radiates into the xmtr circuitry, which can induce 
frequency drift. The extended temperature compensation can help reduce 
the drift as well, and I recommend it with or without a heatsink. It is 
important to know the KX3 does not need a heatsink to meet all of its 
stated specs, but decreased frequency drift and increased key-down time 
at 12 watts is a nice bonus for digital modes.

Thanks go to Elecraft for allowing commercial posts on occasion, and 
where they may be helpful.  I will not abuse the privilege!

Cheers & 73,

Howie - WA4PSC
www.proaudioeng.com