[Elecraft] Fw: SSB issue K3

[Don Wilhelm]

Mark,

Try this:
Put the K3 into TX TEST so you have no output and don't bother other 
hams on the air.
Then set your compression to zero.
Adjust the mic gain to produce 5 to 7 bars on the ALC meter.
Once you have accomplished that, increase the compression to whatever 
you desire.
Exit TX TEST and see what happens.

You must have sufficient audio (as indicated by the ALC meter) for the 
K3 power control system to work properly.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/25/2014 10:43 AM, Mark Pride wrote:
> Thanks for the initial round of comments and suggestions.
>
> The radio did go through the calibration as per the instructions - worked fine.
>
> Symptoms: Full CW power yet on SSB with mic at 28 and comp at 25, initially full power out, then quickly drops off to say 10 to 15 watts.  Have tried the ATU and no change - thinking it was a problem with SWR and the radio is protecting itself (of course on the same band, the CW power is stable with or without the ATU).  Almost behaves like there is some AGC action and drives the power down.  But then it will jump back up sporadically. Also the quality of the audio is weird (not sure how to describe). Don't believe the connectors are intermittent with the mic connection.
>
> I have a second K3 and set both MENU and CONFIG items the same - still the problem continues.
>
> The mic connection has been made directly to both the front and the rear connections - no change
> With or without ATU on - no change
>
> Different mics tried and no change.
> Swapped power supplies (one K3 to the other) no change
>
> Suggestions now?
>