[RTTY] ALC in AFSK Mode

[Dick Kriss, AA5VU]

> Date: Fri, 21 Oct 2005 03:09:43 +0000
> From: k4sb at bellsouth.net
> Subject: Re: [RTTY] FW: OO Advisory kk5oq
> ----------
> 
> First of all, there is no possible way for a rig running FSK to
> overdrive or cause "key clicks", assuming of course the rig is not
> faulty.
> 
> On the other hand, AFSK can and will and has been overdriven and overly
> wide, and does produce the clicks.
> 
> Put another way. if your ALC is moving more than a fraction off 0,
> you're overdriving the rig.
> 
> Unfortunately, very few rigs can generate AFSK power levels to what
> would be seen on FSK.
> 
> 73

I don't know about other rigs but the Kenwood TS-570 easily goes to full
power with zero ALC showing on the meter in AFSK  mode.  I have to be
careful not to overdrive the audio input or the ALC will start showing up.
I usually check for ALC at full power then back down on the power before
operation.  The rig will run all day long at 50 watts without the fan coming
on. If I am in the CQ mode the fan will come on at 100 watts after strings
of CQ's.  The software audio output drive adjustment is pretty nice and is
used to keep the ALC from showing up on the meter.

73, Dick AA5VU