[Elecraft] KX3 2M Module

[Edward R Cole]

Kevin,

On some of the early 2M models the printing on the metal shield was 
backwards to that shown in the manual.  I made the mistake of 
installing my shield per the photo in the manual and got the shield 
on backwards which partially shorted the output transistor resulting 
in low RF output (0.3w vs 3.0w).  I was one of the field testers so 
my unit was very early production.  MY understanding is that the 
label issue was remedied in later units.

To be absolutely sure the shield is on correctly you should visually 
examine the shield to see if the tiny cutout is over the output 
transistor (this is the one with a tab you secured with a black 
flat-head screw).  You should be able to check it without  removal of 
the shield.  Another way to describe it is the cutout is along the 
side of the shield nearest the edge of the radio case.

The manual was updated on this if I am not mistaken (Ron?).

"NOT receiving" is something to call tech support on.  If it 
transmits OK, this would indicate to me a problem in the 2M unit.

My receiver lost sensitivity in field testing and was 
repaired.  Elecraft added a mod to provide more protection to the 
receiver input ckts (which I believe is a permanent mod on later 
production units).  I run 1400w on 2m for eme on a tower only 
130-feet away from the antennas I use with my KX3, so this puts my 
KX3-2M in an extreme RF environment.  I unplug the KX3 antenna when 
running eme, now.

73, Ed - KL7UW

snip -------------
Incidentally, the label on the shield was affixed 180 degrees to the
illustration in the instruction manual.  I caught that before powering
the rig.

73
Kevin
VK3DAP / ZL2DAP


73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
     "Kits made by KL7UW"
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