[Elecraft] KAT500 tuning problem

[Wes (N7WS)]

After a good tune, I would use the KAT500 utility to examine and record the 
selected component values.

When the failure occurs, before retuning I would look at them again and see if 
they are the same.

Also after a good tune, I would run up and down the band to cycle the relays and 
see if things are the same when returning to a previously tuned band segment.

On 2/4/2016 2:17 PM, Bill wrote:
> For the past month I have been experiencing tuning problems with the KAT500.
>
> The antenna in question is a simple 75 meter dipole fed with coax. You tune 
> the antenna at 3922, 2955 and 3975 - just for example. When you return to 
> those frequencies, a few hours later, the tuning is all off and the KPA500 
> demos its displeasure by beeping and flashing lights. Retuning will again hold 
> for a few hours, then all goes haywire again.
>
> I have given shake test to the antenna/halyards -  with an analog SWR bridge 
> in line - and see nothing to indicate breaks or damage. I replaced the feed 
> line and it still does everything the same. All coax lines inside have also 
> been changed out - to no avail.
>
> I should mention that this problem exists on an alternate antenna also. The 
> alternate is also a dipole type. No remote baluns, nothing other than simple 
> center insulators. Chances are they are built properly - been doing it for 
> over 55 years and have never experienced anything like this.
>
> I have reset the KAT500 to default a couple of times - reinstalled the 
> software - all the things you do with black boxes - went through the training 
> thing. I spoken with Elecraft and followed their instructions to the letter 
> also (which were the same as what I had been doing). It all holds well for a 
> few hours, then goes wacko.
>
> If I have to push the buttons every time I QSY, there is little reason to 
> continuing using the KAT500. Of course that makes using the KPA500 more 
> difficult or impossible.
>
> Shipping is expensive and so are service charges - the tuner is way out of 
> warranty.
>
> Anyone have experiences such as these or suggestions?
>
> I am seriously considering regressing to a manual tuner.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bill W2BLC K-Line
>
>
>
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