[Elecraft] KX3 - Power out vs. ALC bars

[k3ndm at comcast.net]

Actually, the Icom followed the same rules, but you got there differently. I suspect that your Icom is rated at 100 Watts peak. Meaning you need to adjust the input to keep the level down to 1/4-1/3 the rated output. And, you may have need to back down on the input auto further so as to not generate too much ALC action. This satisfied two problems, distortion and over heating of the finals. The rules are the same for the KX3, keep distortion low and don't over heat the final. Elecraft says not to kick up too many bars for ALC. That's for distortion. Use the power control to keep your power down to the 100% duty cycle level. Your audio input controls the ALC. I don't have my manual handy, but I can say it is covered there. 

73, 
Barry 
K3NDM 

----- Original Message -----

From: "John" <kx4o at hamradio.me> 
To: k3ndm at comcast.net 
Cc: "elecraft" <Elecraft at mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Monday, March 2, 2015 12:44:07 AM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Power out vs. ALC bars 

Is it safe to say my very low input audio level was compensated by the KX3's power control loop to yield 5 watts out (the actual radio power setting)? 

It's hard to shake my Icom digital interface habits. 

Thanks. 
John, kx4o 

On 3/2/2015 12:34 AM, k3ndm at comcast.net wrote: 



John, 
The manual states that you should keep the ALC bars in the not to exceed 5 range. This keeps distortion down. Power is controlled by other means. As the radio is not rated for 100% duty cycle for 10 Watts, I would recommend that you stay under 4 Watts for the digital modes if running barefoot. 

73, 
Barry 
K3NDM