BD4UNH
Let's organize the answers above:
AM is in amplitude modulation (AM) mode, single-sideband (SSB) mode.(SSB)This leaves a sideband for AM, while removing the carrier. Since SSB is in voice mode, the output RF power depends on the strength of the pre-modulated voice signal. It's not recommended to shout loudly because: firstly, shouting too loud might not reach peak power; and secondly, it could interfere with others.
Even when there is no audio signal, FM modulation maintains a constant maximum power output, without requiring speech.
Because FM/AM uses a carrier wave, it provides stable power, which allows for accurate measurement.
If a keyer is available, you can also measure with CW; and if you have a computer, you can use various data modes (such as FT8) to measure.