I also have the KX3 with 2m module and ATU.
My understanding is Auto is used to tune the antenna but you then
switch to MAN to operate after the ATU tunes to your antenna (my
KXPA100/KXTA100 works the same way).
My original 2m module (kit) did not reach full output so I returned
the module to Elecraft and they fixed it. But I still only see 2.5w
output on my Bird meter with 25C element into Bird load. My guess
the Bird is off calibration though 5% of 25 is 1.25w, so it could be
just the limit of the Bird's accuracy. I use it to drive a 60w MOT
amp that only needs 2w drive so all good. My KX3 only outputs 12w on
HF but I haven't upgraded firmware so maybe that would increase to
15w. No matter as the KXPA100 only requires about 5.5w drive for
100w out on 80-10m and 8w provides 80w on 6m (which is normal).
I think the ATU is kind of fussy at times and I have to redo the
tuning to have it work right. I usually trust the power & SWR meter
on the KXPA100 for day to day use.
I have two Bird meters (one is permanently in my 2m-eme antenna
line). A couple years ago I discovered the calibration limits
of Bird elements when using a 250E element to measure my 150w 1296
amp. It only read 125w. But the element is rated for 400-1000 MHz
and falls off above that (which explains the low reading).
I now have a 600w amp on 1296 and use directional couplers and my
HP432A mw power meter. The 250E and 500E are grossly inaccurate at 1296.
BTW Bird dummy loads can be found on e-bay and other ham lists. They
are rated to 1000 MHz.
73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
Dubus-NA Business mail:
dubus...@gmail.com
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