KX1 low output modification candidate.

[PA3GYU]

My KX1 'suffers' from low output. On internal batteries (8.5 V, current
drain not measured yet), I get into a 50 Ohm dummyload:
1 W @ 80m
0.7 W @ 40 m
1 W @ 30 m
0.7 W @ 20 m

I probably should measure this again at 14DC input and also note the
current drain, but I'm sitting here wondering about the effects of the 'KX1
Application note/Power output modification' that came with the kit. From
the figures above I'd say my KX1 is a good candidate for the mod, but I'm
curious what the effect on current drain will be.... Will current drain on
transmit also double with installation of the mod? Wouldn't that constitute
a considerable effect on battery life, even when one is not transmitting
all the time...
Seems like a high price to pay for what, half an S-point in signal strength.

What do you guys think/already found out?

Bart de PA3GYU

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[Don Wilhelm-3]

Bart,

Yes, do the power mod, it improves the drive levels.
Also look carefully at the Low Pass Filter board if you still have low
output levels when you test it with a 14 volt supply.  With 14 volts, I find
4 watts or more on all bands except 20 is not unusual and 20 meters usually
develops 3.3 to 3.5 watts.

73,
Don W3FPR

> -----Original Message-----
>
> My KX1 'suffers' from low output. On internal batteries (8.5 V, current
> drain not measured yet), I get into a 50 Ohm dummyload:
> 1 W @ 80m
> 0.7 W @ 40 m
> 1 W @ 30 m
> 0.7 W @ 20 m
>
> I probably should measure this again at 14DC input and also note the
> current drain, but I'm sitting here wondering about the effects
> of the 'KX1
> Application note/Power output modification' that came with the kit. From
> the figures above I'd say my KX1 is a good candidate for the mod, but I'm
> curious what the effect on current drain will be.... Will current
> drain on
> transmit also double with installation of the mod? Wouldn't that
> constitute
> a considerable effect on battery life, even when one is not transmitting
> all the time...
> Seems like a high price to pay for what, half an S-point in
> signal strength.
>
> What do you guys think/already found out?
>
> Bart de PA3GYU
>
>

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