Elecraft KX3 - Receive failure :(

[Moleculo]

Well, it looks like my KX3 has developed a new problem. I'm not sure how, when, or why this occurred, but I now have no RX with the rig. There is no noise received, no deflection on the S-meter, and it barely detects a signal when I TX a few watts CW from the K3 sitting right next to it. I tried all the usual firmware reload tricks, but a support ticket with Elecraft has resulted in the rig going in for service. So, off it goes...I'll report back on the findings.

 

[tba02]

"I'm not sure how, when, or why this occurred"
It all started w/ "man-pack"
Ok, kidding aside, sorry to hear this. Hopefully they get you back up and running soon.

 

[Moleculo]

I got the radio back from Elecraft today. The problem was that the ribbon cable that connects the two main boards together failed. This is a $15 part from Elecraft - and only takes a minute to replace. If you own a KX3, I would recommend ordering one of these to have on standby, just in case. It might save you a few bucks in repair costs should yours wear out, too.

 

[tba02]

That's a very odd point of failure. Thanks for the update.

 

[2RT307]

That rig isn't old enough to smoke. Glad you got her fixed.

73,
Brett