[Elecraft] Possible K3 over shoot on transmit

[Jack Brindle]

There are two things at play here. First, the KPA500 has an unregulated power supply. On first key down, the power will spike, then quickly lower as the big filter capacitors decay from their peak voltage to the rms voltage. This is normal and we all see it. While I am sure you are seeing this, I don’t think it is what you are commenting about.

The second thing is that over time the K3 power calibration may change. One of the symptoms of poor calibration is power spiking, and I suspect this is what you are seeing. The solution is easy, perform a power calibration on the K3. The best way is to use the K3 utility’s Calibration selection; follow its directions and you should see improved performance.

If that doesn’t correct the situation, let us know!

73!
Jack, W6FB


> On Jan 12, 2020, at 9:32 AM, Gary Hunt via Elecraft <elecraft at mailman.qth.net> wrote:
> 
> Just started noticing that occasionally the first character sent on CW will peg the watt meter on the KPA500.  It does not fault.  Sometimes a QSY to a different band or even a different band segment will trigger it again, sometimes not. Both of my antennas require my KAT500 which seems to have found acceptable matches for both antennas on the appropriate bands. It just uses a previous found solution when QSYing.  Trying to determine which piece of equipment might have an issue.  Planning on sending the K3 in for a check up but was hoping to have a K4 here first.
> Any thoughts?
> 73, Gary KC9EE
> 
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