[hpsdr] Penelope Power Problem

[John Petrich]

Sorry to bother people, but Penelope suddenly dropped power output from the 
nominal 500mW to about 220mW.  This happened following a demonstration at 
the local ham club meeting.  Additional observations are that only 4 of the 
5 LED's will light with maximum drive, and at the 220mW level, Penelope 
outputs picket fence IMD spurs every 2 KHz @-30dBc and down.  Reducing the 
drive through the PA Settings, Gain by Band menu, from "38" to"39" maintains 
the same nominal 220mW output, but the IMD spurs disappear.

Does anyone have a diagnosis?

The 1/2 power output and IMD observation suggests to me that part of the 
output amplifier, OPA26741 IC, has failed.  I cannot explain the fact that 
only 4, instead of 5, LEDs will light with maximum drive.

Any suggestions are appreciated.

Regards,
John Petrich, W7FU