[Elecraft] Poor CW note more testing and a question (rather long-ish...)

[donovanf at starpower.net]

Page 27 of the K3 Manual addresses proper use of ALC with the K3: 


External ALC External ALC should only be used to protect your amplifier 

during operation into a failed load, or during a prolonged overdrive condition. 
ALC should not be used as a way to clip or compress fast voice peaks, 
or as a primary means of amplifier or K3 power output control. DO NOT 
set the K3’s power level to maximum and adjust amp output using the 
amp’s ALC control. This will result in splatter and key clicks. Instead, 
adjust the drive on each band so it’s just below ALC activation level. 


https://ftp.elecraft.com/K3/Manuals%20Downloads/E740107%20K3%20Owner's%20man%20D10.pdf 

73 
Frank 
W3LPL 



----- Original Message -----

From: "Dave Cole" <dave at nk7z.net> 
To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 2:12:16 AM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Poor CW note more testing and a question (rather long-ish...) 

I run my KPA500 with no ALC, and have from day 1. Somewhere I have seen 
a recommendation, (I think by Elecraft), to not run ALC with the KPA500. 

73, and thanks, 
Dave (NK7Z) 
https://www.nk7z.net 
ARRL Volunteer Examiner 
ARRL Technical Specialist 
ARRL Asst. Director, NW Division, Technical Resources 

On 4/26/20 3:43 PM, Jim Brown wrote: 
> On 4/26/2020 1:37 PM, Andy Durbin wrote: 
> 
> > I'm probably well out of my depth here but could this be caused by 
> > incorrectly configured ALC feedback from the KPA500 to the rig? 
> 
> In general, ALC between an amp and a rig is a recipe for clicks and 
> splatter. Most authorities advise against using it. This is not new -- 
> it's in the manual for Ten Tec legal limit amps from the late '70s and 
> for every amp I've owned since. 
> 
> If it is used, it should be set for well above normal output power so 
> that it only kicks in to reduce drive when something breaks in the 
> antenna system or the operator experiences brain cramp and transmits 
> into the wrong antenna. :) And good solid state amps are well enough 
> protected that they do that without ALC. 
> 
> 73, Jim K9YCX 
> 
> 
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