KX3: 6m Temp Comp Testing

classic Classic list List threaded Threaded
1 message Options
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

KX3: 6m Temp Comp Testing

Edward R Cole
I have completed the Temperature Compensation Procedure for the KX3
on 6m.  Initially, I tried using the 5th harmonic of my 10-MHz OCXO
since it is very accurate and stabile, but harmonic level was
inadequate to run the temp comp procedure, so I used my XG3,
instead.  I did run it a long time to stabilize the signal and
constantly measured frequency on my counter.  Drift of the XG3 was
less than 2-Hz over a couple hours of continuous running (ran off the
same 14vdc PS as the KX3).

Before running the temp comp, Drift of the KX3 was 54-Hz upward
running a test at 5w output on a sequence to duplicate conditions
running JT65: 50-seconds key-down/70-seconds Rx, and repeated ten
sequences (20-minutes total). Power was monitored on a Bird43 with
25w termination.

After temp comp was complete the worst drifting occurred in the first
ten seconds of the first sequence (+13 Hz).  After that there was no
more than 10-Hz drift with the trend toward less drift as the test
proceeded.  The last few sequences drift was +5 Hz.  I monitored Osc.
Temp and PA temp with the KX3 display and Osc temp reached 54c at the
end of 20-minutes running; PA temp was also 54c.  Osc. temp would
drop slightly during the 70-second Rx portion of the sequence.  Temp
compensation seems to work well to reduce frequency drift in
transmit.  Rx frequency is within 1-Hz if not transmitting.

I did feel the KX3 body during the temp comp procedure and it was
much warmer to touch once 52c was reached then the radio with heat
sink runs after 20-minutes of JT65 simulation.  So I can say the heat
sink is making a difference protecting the final
transistors.  Internal heat still rises significantly so one needs to
do the temp. comp. to reduce freq. drift.

details: http://www.kl7uw.com/KX3.htm

73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
     "Kits made by KL7UW"
Dubus Mag business:
     [hidden email]

______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to [hidden email]