Welcome to our quick guide on quality ham radio equipment. This page features detailed information about the Elecraft KX3 transceiver, KXPA 100 amplifier, and G5RV antenna - a powerful combination for amateur radio enthusiasts.
Elecraft KX3 Transceiver
The Elecraft KX3 is an ultra-portable, high-performance software defined radio (SDR) transceiver. Despite its compact size, it delivers contest-grade performance for both base station and field operation.
Key Specifications:
- Frequency Coverage: 160-6 meters (HF + 6m)
- Modes: SSB, CW, Data, AM, FM
- Power Output: 10-15 watts (depending on band)
- Weight: Just 1.5 pounds (0.68 kg)
- Dual Watch Capability
- Built-in ATU (Antenna Tuner) option
- Digital and analog filtering
- Full break-in CW (QSK)
The KX3's advanced DSP features include adjustable noise reduction, noise blanking, and auto-notch functionality. It's perfect for portable operations such as SOTA (Summits On The Air) and POTA (Parks On The Air) activations.
KXPA 100 Amplifier
The KXPA 100 is a companion 100-watt amplifier designed specifically to complement the KX3 and other Elecraft transceivers. It significantly extends the operating range while maintaining signal clarity.
Key Specifications:
- Power Output: 100 watts on all bands (160-6m)
- Low Noise: Excellent signal-to-noise ratio
- Auto Band Switching: When paired with KX3
- Built-in ATU Option: Wide matching range
- Protection: SWR, temperature, current
- Size: Compact 4.5" × 13.5" × 8.5"
- Weight: 7 pounds (3.2 kg)
The KXPA 100 features seamless integration with the KX3, including automatic band switching and power control. Its efficient design generates minimal heat while providing substantial power gain.
G5RV Antenna
The G5RV is a popular multiband HF dipole antenna designed by Louis Varney (G5RV) in 1946. It provides excellent performance across multiple bands without requiring an antenna tuner on some frequencies.
Key Specifications:
- Total Length: 102 feet (31.1m) for full-size
- Feedline: 34 feet (10.4m) of 300-600Ω ladder line
- Bands: Primarily 80, 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters
- Power Rating: Typically 1000+ watts
- Variants: Full-size and half-size (51 feet)
- Feed Point Impedance: Varies by band
The G5RV is renowned for its simplicity and versatility. When paired with the KX3's optional ATU or the KXPA 100's ATU, it becomes an even more flexible antenna system capable of operating effectively across the entire HF spectrum.
System Integration
The combination of the Elecraft KX3, KXPA 100 amplifier, and G5RV antenna creates a powerful and versatile amateur radio station. Here's how these components work together:
- The KX3 serves as the core transceiver with excellent receiving capabilities and initial RF output
- The KXPA 100 boosts the KX3's signal to a full 100 watts for extended range
- The G5RV antenna efficiently radiates the signal across multiple bands
- The ATU options in both the KX3 and KXPA 100 help match impedance for optimal power transfer
This setup is ideal for both home station operation and field deployments where higher power might be needed. The entire system maintains the Elecraft reputation for exceptional performance and reliability.