[Elecraft] KPA100 recommended max power for digital modes?

[Walter Underwood]

Well-protected is not quite the same thing as continuous service or maximum linearity. The KX3 is fine at 10-12W for CW or SSB, but people generally run it at 3-5W for FM or digital modes.

Of course, when you need the juice, you need it, regardless of mode.

wunder
K6WRU

On Feb 21, 2014, at 11:04 PM, Jim Brown <jim at audiosystemsgroup.com> wrote:

> On 2/21/2014 7:43 PM, WA7SPY wrote:
>> I was looking at the operating manual online and did not see any recommended power setting for operating the amp with digital modes.
> 
> Elecraft output stages are very well protected. In general, I feel comfortable running them "balls to the wall" with keydown modes, with all the lights lit. With well matched antennas, I run keydown modes at full power. If the output stage gets warm, the fan will run faster, and if that isn't enough, the rig will back off the drive.
> 
> Remember that the WSJT modes are "weak signal" modes, NOT low power modes. There is a big difference. We may get lots of distance per watt and be happy with QRP for easy paths, but for the most difficult paths (EME, transcontinental 160M), great digital ops pile on the watts and use their best antennas. I do a lot of QRP, but I also know when to turn on the big amp. :)
> 
> 73, Jim K9YC
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--
Walter Underwood
wunder at wunderwood.org