Among amateur radio operators, the Icom 7610 and Elecraft K3S radios stand out as popular choices, renowned for their superior performance and advanced features. Despite their impressive attributes, these radios can be further optimized by adjusting their SSB listening receiver...
I had great fun in the HA-DX Contest of 2023. I used my FT-817 QRP transceiver with CW on an End fed, that is fed via 300 ohm twin lead.
Strong signals When I started just before 15 utc on 20 meter, I heard very strong signals. A signal of S9 can be answered with 1 W or 500 mW. But the signals were very strong: S9 + 10 dB. This gives the possibility to make QSO's with 80 mW or even 36 mW. When I came on the band, I first looked for the stations that were received with S9 + 10 dB.
In the first two hours on the band I made 12 QSO's with 36 mW and 80 mW. All with search an pounce. (S&P) Only when I am sure the my signal is not heard, I will increase my power and try again. The lowest power of my FT-817 with CW is 360 mW. This 360 mW is reduced to 36Β mW with a 10 dB attenuator. My homebrew power attenuator of 10 dB
Later I made QSO's with 800 mW and 360 mW, when the signal strenght decreased. When the band closed, I went to 7 MHz. After one QSO I decided to stop because it was too difficult. My 2,7 W was not heard between all QRO-signals.
On sunday I started on 7 MHz with 2.7 Watt. Later I went to 14 MHz to make QSO's with 360 mW, 800 mW and 3.6 Watt. I use 3.6 W when my 800 mW is not heard.