[Elecraft] KPA100 recommended max power for digital modes?

[Matt Zilmer]

In Navy-Marine Corps MARS, we use a *lot* of digital modes, including
PSK31 and a double handful of others.  On this KX3/KXPA100, I normally
use no more than 25W for PSK and a little more for some of the others.
On MT63, I use 30W.  Most data modes don't need a lot of SNR to
decode.  It also depends on transmission length.  If I'm going to
transmit MT63 for five minutes straight, I run the power down to 20W.

I'm not sure there is a recommended output power setting for data
modes using the KX3/KXPA100, but you can find out yourself by
monitoring the PA.X temp on the VFO B display (your room temperature
is different from others').  If you see the temp rise to more than
you're comfortable with, back down on the power.  Using the settings
stated above keeps the KXPA temp at comfortable levels at this
station, usually < 50C, but sometimes a bit over.  The amp will
protect itself by lowering output power if the temp runs too hot. Like
everything Elecraft makes, the hardware and software are very robust.

73,
matt W6NIA


On Fri, 21 Feb 2014 19:43:42 -0800, you wrote:

>I just ordered a KPA100 with the auto tuner for my KX3. In anticipation of the arrival of the amp  I was looking at the operating manual online and did not see any recommended power setting for operating the amp with digital modes. I plan to use the amp for PSK31. What is the recommended max power setting for the amp using PSK31 with a KX3?
>
>Thanks,
>Glenn Maclean WA7SPY
Matt Zilmer, W6NIA
--
"Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will
spend the first four sharpening the axe." -A. Lincoln