[Elecraft] Need help with kat500 utility

[Rick Bates, NK7I]

Let's start with the basic facts.

Rig --> amp --> KAT500 --> antenna/s (with the tuner blocking the amp 
key in while tuning).

1)  The KAT500 was working successfully 'for years' without issue.
2)  There was a sudden change in operation.

This doesn't necessarily mean it was the tuner; it more likely means 
that something in your antenna system has changed or failed (a rope or 
wire, the feed etc).  Start there (use an antenna analyzer to see what 
is different).  Take a look at ALL of that system (loose connector?).

Caps on either side, depends on the antenna load presented to the tuner; 
high or low impedance load (grossly simplified).

Key interrupt should be used for an amp, so you don't put too high a 
stress (mostly on the amp) during the tuning process, causing damage.

Likewise attenuator kicks in when you overdrive the tuner input, prior 
to a fault if it doesn't change.

At least this is my understanding, subject to confirmation/denial.

GL es 73,
Rick NK7I


On 2/23/2022 1:48 PM, Richard Donner wrote:
> I  have some question about the operate tab in the kat500 utility.
> In the "others"  what should be checked off?
> "caps on the Ant side"
> "amp key interrupt"
> "attenuator"
>    Not sure what these things do.
>
> I had been using my kat500 for years and all of a sudden low SWR  matches
> could not be found on one of my antennas.   It was odd because everything
> was fine yesterday.
> I found by checking "caps on the Ant side"  Ii could get a match in manual
> mode.
>   I wonder if that had been checked and all of a sudden it stopped being
> checked?
>
> Also I wonder if the"amp key interrupt "  was ever set properly.
> How should it be set with a KPA500 amplifier all cabled up.
> I did not see a simple explanation what these kat500 setting are for.
>
> Any help would be appreciated.  I think I am going for a walk
> Thanks   Richard wa6kyr
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