Elecraft KX3 Owner's Manual - Manual (Page 9)

9
Basic Operation
This section describes basic KX3 controls and
features. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll be
ready to explore the Advanced Operating
Features section (pg. 17), which covers built-in
text decode, frequency memories, dual watch and
other topics.
Getting Started
Before using the KX3, you’ll need to connect a
power supply and an antenna, at minimum. See
Installation (pg. 4) for more details.
Turning the KX3 On/Off
To turn the KX3 on or off, press and hold the
B A N D - and A T U T U N E switches simultaneously
for about two seconds, then release. Left side
labeling identifies these two switches (see below).
This power on/off method reduces the likelihood of
accidental activation in a backpack or carrying case.
Always turn the KX3 off as described above
before turning off or disconnecting any external
power source. This will ensure that your current
VFO settings, etc., are saved.
Switch
T A P
and
H O L D
Functions
All KX3 switches have two functions:
§ Tap to activate the function labeled on a switch,
e.g. R A T E
§ Hold for about 1/2 second to activate the
function labeled below a switch, e.g. K H Z
AF Gain and other Knob Functions
Each of the four small knobs has a primary function
that is in effect when you turn on the KX3. For
example, the knob at far left,
A F / R F - S Q L
,
normally controls receiver AF gain (volume). As
you rotate this knob, the AF gain setting is
displayed in the VFO B area.
Tapping this knob briefly switches to its secondary
function, RF gain (squelch in FM mode). Holding
the knob—pushing it for over 1/2 second—switches
to a third function,
M O N (volume setting for
transmit monitor and switch tones).
The small knobs are also used in conjunction with
nearby switches. For example, if you tap
D I S P ,
rotating the knob directly above it (OFS / VFO B)
will scroll through several special displays,
including time, supply voltage, current drain, etc.
Using the Menu
The menu is used to tailor the transceiver to your
operating preferences.
To access the menu, hold M E N U until the
BKLIGHT (LCD brightness) menu entry appears in
the VFO B area. The parameter, in this case the
brightness level, appears in the VFO A area.
To change the value of a menu parameter, rotate
VFO A (large knob). In the case of BKLIGHT,
rotating the knob will select backlight
O N or O FF .
To scroll through menu entries, use the small
knob above the menu switch,
O F S / V F O B .
To exit the menu, hold M E N U again.
While in the menu, holding M E N U for about 3
seconds displays usage information about the
present menu entry. Tap any switch to cancel.
Configuration Menu Functions
Now that you know how to use the menu, you may
wish to review the Configuration section (pg. 29)
to make sure the KX3 is configured properly for
your installed options and operating preferences.
There are also a number of calibration steps
performed on your KX3 at the factory (for both kits
and assembled radios). See Calibration, pg. 31.