[Elecraft] Weird K-3 Power Behavior

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Run the power calibration.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV

On 4/4/2024 9:03 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
> I just set the audio to be sure I'm  hitting 4 bars of ALC,and the cycle 
> of adjust K-3 power to full expected drive to the KPA-1500 is now more 
> like CW, but the question remains -  after I adjust the power a tiny 
> fraction in either direction, why does the K-3's output power drop way 
> back and relatively slowly recover?
> 
> 73, Pete N4ZR
> 
> On 4/4/2024 7:41 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:
>>
>> 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.
>>>