[Elecraft] RF noise on 80M with KPA500 plugged into AC outlet

[John Freed]

Here is an interesting situation.  On 80 meters (3.980 MHZ) the background noise goes from S7 to S9+20 when I plug the KPA500 into the AC outlet.  I have not turned on the Amplifier, just plugged it into the AC outlet.  I disconnect the power cord from the amplifier at the amplifier and the noise remains.  I unplug the power cord and the background noise drops back to S7.  This only happens on 80 meters.  I have an idea the outlet may have a grounding problem.  I will test it tomorrow.  Any ideas??

I have a ground bar that all of the radios are attached to.  Single ground wire to an 8 ft ground rod just outside the shack. Hmmmmm!  (me scratching my head)

72

John Freed, KX6F
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