[Elecraft] Adjusting Audio Level for Digital Modes

[Bob McGraw K4TAX]

Don is absolutely correct on his earlier points.   The K3S setup and 
operation does not follow the suggestions for setting the audio levels 
as other radios and as described in the WSJT-X user information.

In DATA mode, it is my view that A L C stands for AUDIO  LEVEL CREST.  
i.e. the highest point, level or degree.     It does not, in my terms, 
stand for Automatic Level Control as understood by many and as used on 
many other radio brands.   Although, in SSB mode, the the normal 
convention of understanding with ALC does apply.

With regard to WSJT-X, there is provision, in the AUDIO tab to have the 
levels remembered by band  for Transmit and Tune.   I find with these 
boxes checked things work quite well.  Just remember that the transmit 
data level can or will be different than the tune level.  Thus some 
minor adjustment of the PWR slider in the software may be needed between 
TUNE and TRANSMIT.  Once done, all other things remaining static, the 
power from band to band and day to day remain precise as one desires.

In my measurements, in DATA A mode with a single tone applied, I find 
that any audio level where the A L C indication  {AUDIO LEVEL CREST}  is 
less than 4 bars will allow the power control circuit in the radio to 
"hunt".  The result will be observed as a slow power increase.

I'm stubborn, hard-headed and have used many other brands and models of 
radios in the past.  As I've said before, I had to learn to use the K3S 
as it is intended, thus it is not like other radios in this respect.  
Once done, you'll be much more satisfied with its outstanding performance.

73

Bob, K4TAX

K3S s/n 10163


On 9/8/2017 7:36 AM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
> Bret,
>
> This is a condition we call "Power Hunting", and it usually indicates 
> that you do not have the audio level set correctly for Elecraft 
> transceivers.
>
> Are you driving the audio to illuminate 4 bars on the K3S ALC meter 
> with the 5th bar flashing?  You must operate Elecraft gear differently 
> than other transceivers because of the closed loop system used for 
> power control is different than the simplistic "control the drive 
> level" system that other transceivers use.
>
> Ignore the internet (and WSJT-X) advice which tells you to adjust the 
> power with the audio level and set the power to maximum.
>
> With Elecraft gear, set the audio as instructed in the manual and 
> adjust the power with the POWER knob.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>