[Elecraft] KX3 beta firmware rev. 2.38: 15 Watts max output on 80-20 m, and PSK63 mode
Wayne Burdick
n6kr at elecraft.com
Fri Jan 8 23:59:47 EST 2016
KX3 beta firmware rev. 2.38 is now available on our KX3 software page:
http://www.elecraft.com/KX3/KX3_software.htm
See instructions on this page for loading beta releases.
This release includes two new features:
The new 15-watt level applies only to 80-20 meters, and is still considered somewhat experimental. Several dozen field testers have been using it with excellent results, but we can't guarantee that every KX3 will actually put out a full 15 W. Supply voltage is one limiting factor. We strongly recommend the use of 13.8-14 V whenever possible. This is especially important when you're driving an external amplifier and using one of the linear modes (SSB, AM, PSK-D, or audio data modes).
PSK63 is twice as fast as PSK31. Rather than copy it on the KX3's VFO B display, you may want to use the Terminal function of KX3 Utility, or use a PX3 with text decode turned on. This data mode is especially popular in Europe.
Rev. 2.38 also corrects a problem with some KX3-4M (70 MHz) modules that had lower than normal power output.
73,
Wayne
N6KR
* * *
MCU 2.38 / DSP 1.37, 01-03-2016
• POWER OUT NOW 15 WATTS MAX, 80-20 M: On 80-20 meters, the PWR control can now be set as high as 15 W (max is still 12 W on other bands). Supply voltage must be over 12.8 V on key-down as indicated by the KX3’s voltage display (tap DISP, rotate VFO B). Note: The KX3 will automatically reduce power as required if current, SWR, or temperature is excessive, or if supply voltage is too low. If a band other than 80-20 m is selected, power output will be cut back to 12 W max. It must then be manually set above 12 W after switching to 80-20 m.
• PSK63 MODE ADDED: Tap DATA, rotate VFO B until PSK D is displayed, then use VFO A to select 31 or 63 baud. The default is PSK31.
• 4-METER POWER OUTPUT IMPROVED: Changed IF band-pass filter configuration to increase drive level on 4 meters. This should improve 4-meter power output in cases where it was marginal due to filter rolloff.
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