Most of you have probably already discovered this, but the following points I have found for CW operation (some of it applies to all modes) may be of help for new owners of a KX3:
1. The default 30dB of preamp gain isn't always a good choice. If I notice that the noise level (without signals) on a particular band is S5 or stronger, I reduce the preamp gain by 10dB and see if that helps. Amplifying noise doesn't help copy the signal buried in it any better. Even the noise reduction (NR) circuit will work better when it isn't swamped with noise; the CWT also works better for tuning a CW signal. I often find that reception on 40m and 80m is better with the preamp off or at 10 dB gain max. Note that preamp gain is set in the menu individually for each band. 2. A narrow bandwidth such as 300 Hz or even 100 Hz can really make the CW signal you are trying to hear stick out. A narrower bandwidth also makes the CWT tuning work better. I use a 500 Hz bandwidth when tuning around and then reduce it once I find a signal of interest, using CWT to get "on his frequency" (you could also press the SPOT button to let the KX3 center itself on the signal). 3. Remember that the receiver RF Gain setting appears to work "backwards" to what many people think. Maximum sensitivity is at a setting of 0 (zero), poorest sensitivity is at a setting of 60. 73, AL - VE3RRD ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to [email protected]
