KX3 Transceiver
Reviewed by Joel R. Hallas, W1ZR
QST Technical Editor w1zr@arrl.org
The Elecraft KX3 is a nominal 10 W HF and 6 meter transceiver intended primarily for portable use. With its internal battery compartment and available miniature keyer paddles, it is ready to go from a campsite or picnic table with just the addition of an antenna (see Figure 1). Unlike many low power radios, in addition to CW, this transceiver can operate SSB, AM, FM and digital modes. As we will discuss, unlike many compact portables, it doesn’t give up much in terms of features or performance in comparison to full-size high-end radios…..
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Internal options include wide-range ATU, battery charger, 2-meter module; built-in speaker
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Advanced DSP provides dual watch, noise reduction, noise blanking, autonotch, stereo audio effects
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Software-defined radio (SDR) architecture plus optional roofing filters for excellent dynamic range
- Operates in data modes (PSK31/RTTY) with or without a PC; includes RX I/Q soundcard outputs
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Ultra-Compact Home/Portable/Mobile Station The revolutionary Elecraft KX3 puts the world in the palm of your hand! Despite its small size, it covers all amateur bands from 160-6 meters, operates in all modes, and has DSP-based features usually found only on larger radios. The KX3’s unique form-factor allows you to operate from anywhere. Fold out the rear tilt-feet for use on a desktop or picnic table. For extreme portability, you can add the internal wide-range ATU, 8-AA cell battery pack with NiMH charger, and adjustable KXPD3 keyer paddle. With a whip antenna, you can even operate hand-held. In receive mode, current drain can be as low as 150 mA – about one-half to one-third that of competing all-band portables. Transmit efficiency is also excellent, further improving battery life. |
Full-Featured, yet Easy to Use The KX3 features a large front panel with all controlsoptimized for convenient use. You won’t have to dig through menus to set the power level, adjust the keyer speed, or change filter settings. And the KX3 has the same full-size display as the Elecraft K3, so all operating information is available at a glance. The KX3’s tutorial-style manual explains how and whycontrols are used, so new hams will be experts in no time. Of course you’ll also have Elecraft’s legendary customer support, and free firmware upgrades via the internet. KXPA100 External 100-Watt Amplifier Our high-performance KXPA100 home/mobile amplifier seamlessly integrates with the KX3 as well as other popular 5- to 10-W transceivers. It has its own internal ATU option (KXAT100) with dual antenna jacks. |
| KX3 STANDARD FEATURES | |
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| RECEIVER | |
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| TRANSMITTER | |
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| OTHER FEATURES | |
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| OPTIONS and ACCESSORIES | |
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KXFL3 Roofing Dual Bandwidth Filter for SSB/CW/DATA KXAT3 Internal, Wide-Range 20-W Automatic Antenna Tuner KXBC3 NiMH Charger (8 – AA NiMH batteries not supplied with KX3; non-rechargeables can also be used in KX3 internal battery holder) KX3-2M Internal 2-Meter Module |
H3 Hand Microphone with UP/DN Controls KXPD3 Attached Precision Keyer Paddle KXPA100 High-Performance 160-6 meter, External 100-W Amplifier also usable with most 5 to 10 W transceivers KXAT100 Wide-Range 100-W ATU with Dual Antenna Jacks (attaches to KXPA100 module) |
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