[Elecraft] Firmware Problem

[James D. (Jimmy) Walker, Jr.]

I'm having my old firmware problem again. My K-3 refused to turn on this afternoon displaying the dreaded MCU LD at the bottom of screen. Past experience has demonstrated that this indicates a problem with the K-3 firmware. I've had several theories proposed for a solution, none of which have been successful.

By way of further background, I can solve the problem by disconnecting the P3 from the line going to the computer and reloading the firmware directly to the K-3 from the computer. In this way, with only the radio connected to the computer, I can reload the firmware, solving the problem. This is most inconvenient but, fortunately, it does provide a solution.

For those on this reflector who have followed my problem, here's a new possibility for solution. I have one of the earlier K-3’s with a .5 amp rating on the DC power output. I understand newer K-3's are rated for 1 amp or more. I've had my P-3 Panadapter set up to turn on automatically at the time of the start of the radio. I now wonder if this drain on the DC output by the P3 Panadapter may have caused a significant voltage causing the system to bomb out.

I have now adjusted the jumpers on the P-3 so as to start the P-3 manually after the radio. I wonder if anyone has any ideas that this might have been a good solution or is instead of another blind alley? I guess I’ll find out sooner or later. As far as I know I’m the only user having this problem.

Jimmy, WA4ILO