[Elecraft] KPA1500 Power Level

[Jerry Kirshenbaum]

re: it'd pay to review the SPE

In May 2021 I bought a SPE 1.5K-FA 2nd generator new from the distributor in Texas. I’ve been using a SunSDR2 DX 100W transceiver while I wait to receive my K4D. The 1st time the finals blew may have been operator error. Subsequently, I discovered that the software allows one to limit the power on each band. So I set the SPE to mid power (it has low, mid, high settings) and determined the correct output for 700-800W. That left at least 20% head room.  Despite this seem lying failsafe procedure, the finals blew again. The distributor would not cover this under warranty on the grounds that my radio has spurious spikes which blew the finals. In fact, if you run the “wrong” radio with this amp, you don’t have any warranty because the radio is indicted as the cause of failure sight unseen.

The amp when it works is wonderful. One case, 24 lbs, very quiet. I had everything linked together with my SteppIR DB18E through DxLab. 

Two times back to the distributor for repair in 3 months was enough. I sold it and now have a KPA1500 which is working great.

BTW, the distributor also says the IC-7300 (my backup) has spurious spikes as well and presumably is another transceiver not covered under their warranty.

73, Jerry / K0ES