[Elecraft] K3, Elecraft Transverter K144XV-K

[Wayne Burdick]

Jim (KG0KP) wrote:

> I recall my range was about 4 watts, roughly 4 to 8 watts.
> My need was for a max of 2 watts and that isn't going to happen.

Hi Jim,

At the time we designed this module, we were trying for maximum power output, and I'm sorry to say that we didn't attempt to ensure any particular minimum. Field testers for the unit were all asking for even higher power, and there was no discussion that I recall of an application for less. 

Even though the sales brochure and the manual for the K144XV only mention "maximum power output" and never make a claim for "minimum", I can see why you would expect less than 4 watts, given the available 10-to-1 drive range. 

There appears to be significant variance in results at minimum drive (0.1 mW), so I've asked the engineer who designed the unit to investigate. There are only a few factors that control power output and gain, so it could be that a very simple modification might be possible to increase the output range.

I'll post the results of our investigation.

73,
Wayne
N6KR