[Elecraft] Weird K-3 Power Behavior

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

This is typical for those who insist on not running data modes
with 4-5 bars of ALC.  You are not providing enough audio and
the K3/K3s needs to engage the expander (additional audio gain)
in order to achieve enough drive to reach the set power level.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV


On 4/4/2024 6:21 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
> I have a K-3 driving a KPA-1500, and have started seeing some strange 
> behavior.  After I adjust the power level control on the K-3,. even a 
> little (like 33 to 31 watts), the driving power delivered to the 
> KPA-1500 starts much below the K-3's indication, and only gradually 
> increases to what would be expected at the K-3's power setting.  This 
> behavior is apparent in CW, but is more dramatic in FT* using TXData, 
> where it can take several 12-second transmit intervals to reach full 
> power.  Touch the K-3's power control even a little, and this cycle 
> starts over again at reduced power, gradually returning to full.
>