No Spam (ckh) wrote:

The transmitters did not have modern features such as QSK or ALC (or
compressors). Keep the audio gain down. On an HT-32 or HT-37,
talk the meter to maybe 30% of max power. Max power being what
you loaded the transmitter to. If you can see 240 mills when you
tune for max power out, talk it to only 80 mills.

Thats probably the most valuable thing to recognize whether it be a BA
xmtr or the latest thing from Japan.

Many guys want to see the meter 'hang' up there with audio like it did
in "TUNE" or in CW. If it does, you can count on a sloppy SSB audio signal.

You don't really need a scope or analyzer for this since the mfr has
already designed the rig for you. I don't know how to describe it any
better other than saying that when you pass the ideal operating point,
the output (or plate) meter will not be as "peppy" with normal speech
when you pass the sweet spot for drive. Forget how high the meter
'peaks' because every meter is damped differently.
I guess if you have the right voice for the long "Hooooola" down pat you
can push the limit. Then back off 10%.
:-)

-Bill



..

The SX-101A receiver have a front end that you cannot overload and
an audio amp that the "Glass audio" folks can appreciate.

Boat anchor transmitters had tuned outputs, load 'n dip. These did
not need antenna tuners because the output load controls did the
matching.

As for the antenna, if you put up a 40 meter dipole, you will
hear stations boom in, about 3-5 S-units better than that 10 foot
piece of wire.