[Elecraft] Test
Test - please ignore. Sorry abt QRM. Geoff, GM4ESD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft: K1 current draw
snip I have noted that the current drain is a little higher than the spec says so would like to know what other K1’s are drawing in real life Mine on Rx is Ok at about 70mA with the backlight option fitted and set to high brightness On TX it’s a little high ( I think) 40m 5W @ 14v Supply Current =1.18Amps 40m 2W @ 14v SupplyCurrent = 760mA snip Paul, the current draw at 5W is a little high but nothing to worry about. The current on my K1 varies around the one amp mark depending on the exact supply voltage and the SWR it is seeing. If you are using the KAT1 and it matches your wire perfectly ie 1:1 SWR then the current should be 900mA at 14V. I use an external ATU and because I don't always take the trouble to match my wire perfectly the current creeps up above one amp for 5 Watts out. For most CW speeds I don't think the output transistor is bothered about a little more collector current, just don't leave the key down for long periods. If you just feel the side of the K1 case where the output transistor is bolted to (the case is the heat sink) you can feel if it is getting warm, most of the time I can barely sense any change in temp. One other thing to note is that if using an external tuner and the K1 sees a high SWR when you are tuning, I think it reduces it's output to protect itself and often I need to switch it off and on again after tuning to reset the K1brain otherwise it gets confused. It's not a problem. The K1 is my first and only rig and I love it. Hope you enjoy yours too. I'm often on 80m around 3558 in the evenings and I'll look out for you. Don't worry about the cw speed, I'll slow down to whatever you are comfortable with. 73's Martin M0KWV K1 #1534 Why not take a look at our Web site? http://www.simoncarves.com * The information in this email and any attachments may contain privileged and/or confidential information intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If the reader of this email is not the intended addressee, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the addressee, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify me by telephone or email and delete all copies immediately. * ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Re: KPA100 K3 relay
First of all, thanks to all those that offered advice - much appreciated. Well, after much deliberation (reading this mail archive Eham reviews etc) I decided to put away the solder wick and purchase a Hakko 808. I tried it out on some discarded pcb's ( where I had previously used solder wick) and all I can say is that its probably the best tool purchase I've made. Full of confidence I tackled the K3 relay and a few seconds later it came away from the board as clean as you like - wonderful!! Its expensive to buy in the UK, and if you're a careful builder it might not see a lot of immediate use, but for those occasions when mistakes do occur or you need to rework the K2 to install mods etc it looks like being invaluable. 73 to all Trevor G0KTN ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Low power draw, low power out?
Nick, Read that paragraph with the undertanding that the most important shared circuits are the PLL Reference oscillator, the VCO, and the BFO stages - and they are also measured with the RF Probe even for receiver testing - the VCO and BFO should also be tested for correct frequency using CAL FCTR. Yes, the Bandpass filters, T/R switch, and Low Pass Filters are also shared, but they will be tested with a signal 'the other way 'round' during the steps indicated under Transmit Signal Tracing. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- do the Transmitter Signal Tracing steps detailed in the Troubleshooting Appendix of the K2 manual. That seems to involve testing RX first, because of the shared circuitry, which unfortunately seems to require 0.14V from a signal generator, and my only signal generator is the Elecraft XG1, producing 50uV. :-( Is it possible/sensible to test the shared circuits the other way 'round, whilst transmitting into DL1? ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Sidetone disappeared
Anyone have any ideas why the sidetone disappeared while I was going through the menu to change something. Wanted to make a contact last night and no sidetone hi. I went back to the menu and tried adjusting the sound setting but nothing now??? Tnx Jack ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Sidetone disappeared
Jack: I don't have the manual sitting with me, so I can't give exact instructions, but there is a sidetone source item in the menu that you obviously toggled. Check your menu for a sidetone setting, select it. There are two sources for the sidetone that you can select. Select the 'other' one. best wishes, dave belsley, w1euy On Jan 3, 2006, at 9:06 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Anyone have any ideas why the sidetone disappeared while I was going through the menu to change something. Wanted to make a contact last night and no sidetone hi. I went back to the menu and tried adjusting the sound setting but nothing now??? Tnx Jack ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] One more on the stupid thread
Some years ago I was a volunteer fireman in a small Upstate NY town. On one of our pumpers, a '58 Mack, one of the two (redundancy, y'know) battery strings (two huge 6V batteries in series) was self-discharging if the rig sat idle in the barn for more than two or three days. Determined to find out why, I went up to the firehouse one night with my multimeter. I disconnected the negative terminal and hooked up the meter. One of our younger guys was looking over my shoulder and asked whether there was any reason why I had disconnected the negitive terminal instead of the positive. Wow! Here was my chance to show off how smart I was. I explained that when working on a vehicle battery, one should always first disconnect the negative terminal, because that way, in case the wrench made contact with the vehicle's frame, there would not be a big short circuit current! I then proceeded to demonstrate this for him by bridging my wrench from the negative battery terminal to some nearby metal. It was at that moment that I discovered that Mack trucks of that vintage had positive ground!! Ever see a box end wrench instantly get converted to an open end?? 73 Ray K2HYD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Sidetone disappeared
Jack, Enter the menu for St L - edit the parameter, and tap DISPLAY to toggle the sidetone source - when you hear the sidetone, exit the menu - done. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Anyone have any ideas why the sidetone disappeared while I was going through the menu to change something. Wanted to make a contact last night and no sidetone hi. I went back to the menu and tried adjusting the sound setting but nothing now??? Tnx Jack ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] HP Pavilion and PSK -- no workie workie
Hello, I am new to the list - I just ordered my K2 yesterday. I should have it by the end of the week. I have built Heathkits in the long ago past, but this will be my first Elecraft kit. I am still using my HW8 and Heath Electronic Keyer. I plan on retiring them. More on my K2 later - after I get the kit. Jerry, I would set up for com port 6. I know that 1, 2, 3, and 4 are in use. I have a Pavilion ZV6000 and also use a serial to USB adapter not for PSK but that shouldn't matter. Help?? I ran PSK all the time with my old puter, then the laptop came along while I was in the hospital and my wife took my old puter away. Why, as a way to make me keep my feet propped up when on the radio, it works for me, new puter. hi hi Ok here are the facts: Puter: HP Pavilion -- no serial ports all usb ports. using eithe XP or NP I don't know what ever it came with, I'm no puter guru, shows huh? Software is Digipan 2.0 Interface: Old soapdish Rascal with serial port, its has worked for years. I have a serial port to usb port converter cable deal to get to usb ports on puter. Rig: my trusty wonderful Elecraft K2, which I've worked digital modes with for years. Facts: I can recieve PSK, however can only seem to control waterfall with volume control on K2. Its very touchy. I can't hear the PSK signals guess it has something to do with HP Pavilon, I sure miss not hearing it. Want to tackle one thing at a time. Can not transmit, when i try to configure the serial port, I set if for com port 2 just like I use to do. RTS and RTR are checked just like before but I get a message, Error opening Com Port 2, try again. Any ideas to help me out, like I have said before I'm very puter stupid. Thanks, now I wonder what I should have added?? Jerry - Nr5A - South DAkota Sam (AF3W) Western PA ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] First full week of K1 operation
Nabbed 19 countries (counting N0SS for USA) in 7 non-contest days with my Christmas present K1 #2146 at 5 watts. 40M EA6 KV4 VE TI HC 6Y5 20M HB9 GM CO PY HC YU 15M V51 EA5 EA8 F G OM Haven't had this much fun with QRP since my Argonaut 505 #109 during a sunspot maximum using a Lafayette CB vertical on 10M. K1-4 = $359 KAT-1 = $99 Hearing V51AS answer my call through a EU pileuppriceless! Elecraft K1... 10lbs of fun in a 1.5lb box! Tom K2TA K2-TA-100 #1117 K1-4 #2146 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] stupid question
Jim, John, Simon and all... There aren't any stupid questions, but lots of stupid actions. (Doh! What was I thinkin'!) Jim, along your lines, I learned very early in my ham career, Never, EVER, try to disconnect an antenna during a storm's approach. Was knocked clear across my shack by a nearby discharge. Talk about knocking the sense into you! Second, measure, measure and measure again. Make sure all the parts fit in the sequence you think they will fit. I can vouch for the shear joy of trying to get a part on a 5 element antenna that you had to pull out of the rotor and attempt to balance in mid-air while you slide on a part you thought would fit after it was mounted. ;o) (It's even more fun if you're hanging out in the middle of the ozone layer.) Happy New Year to one and all! Hope to catch you all OTA this year. 73, Julius n2wn ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question
I would like to be able to control a rig and run various digital modes remotely from my wireless network. I imagine a rig setup in the shack that I can access from my wireless laptop in the other part of the house. I'd like to be capable of running psk31 and other keyboard modes in this manner. I'm pretty certain that I have read about others doing this, but I have had no luck finding any online resources to explain how it is done. Any pointers to online or printed resources would be appreciated. 73, -- Jeff, KE9V K2 #524 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question
Jeff, take a look at my website, www.telepostinc.com. Go to the links about remote control and software control. Also, if you take QST, look in the October 2005 issue for my article on remote control. If you're not a member, I can email you a copy. 73, Larry N8LP Jeff Davis wrote: I would like to be able to control a rig and run various digital modes remotely from my wireless network. I imagine a rig setup in the shack that I can access from my wireless laptop in the other part of the house. I'd like to be capable of running psk31 and other keyboard modes in this manner. I'm pretty certain that I have read about others doing this, but I have had no luck finding any online resources to explain how it is done. Any pointers to online or printed resources would be appreciated. 73, ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question
Jeff, If you can set things up to control everything from the local shack computer first, then you can use a remote computer control program to control the shack computer. I like UltraVNC (http://ultravnc.sourceforge.net/) for controlling a remote computer and viewing its desktop - I have not investigated nor solved the problem of getting audio to and from the shack to the laptop location, but some folks have suggested a VoIP based connection would do the task. For only PSK31 operation it is a lot easier because the audio link problem does not have to be solved. Ham Radio Deluxe is be a good choice for rig control because it has PSK31 built in and UltraVNC will allow you to operate the shack computer from the laptop. The N4PY software also can be used for rig control, but you will have to use something else for PSK31. Bottom line - anything you can operate anything from the shack computer screen and keyboard can be available to you on any remote computer through UltraVNC (and it is freeware) - try it, you may like it. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I would like to be able to control a rig and run various digital modes remotely from my wireless network. I imagine a rig setup in the shack that I can access from my wireless laptop in the other part of the house. I'd like to be capable of running psk31 and other keyboard modes in this manner. I'm pretty certain that I have read about others doing this, but I have had no luck finding any online resources to explain how it is done. Any pointers to online or printed resources would be appreciated. 73, -- Jeff, KE9V K2 #524 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] More Dumb Stuff
Back in 1952 I was a high school freshman and a brand new Novice. On my way home from school I would drop in on my Elmer, W2FIJ, who ran a Radio/TV repair shop. Ralph would impart his vast knowledge of electronics and let me poke around in his parts bins. One day I came across a beautiful volt meter so of course I had to measure a battery. I learned a lot of things that afternoon, a serious lesson in Ohms law, what a meter shunt does, and a number of words I hadn't heard before! It WAS a very nice microamp meter movement. Well, I worked that off on weekends stuffing tubes in the tube checker, sweeping the shop's floor and learning much more in the process. Doug W6JD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] One more on the stupid thread
I, too could tell my stupid stories that have occured over my 41 year ham career, but I won't bore you; you're operating time is too valuable:-) But I will say that I adopted a philosophy a number of years ago that has covered me many times. It is that I always reserve the right to be wrong, i.e. stupid. See, I'm covered no matter what I do. Happy New Year to all! 73, Mark Baugh W5EZY Grenada MS __ Yahoo! for Good - Make a difference this year. http://brand.yahoo.com/cybergivingweek2005/ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] One more on the stupid thread
Classic Homers of mine: - Climb tree, install halyard rope for antenna. Forget to tie rope ends together. Climb down tree, breeze shakes tree, short end of rope goes up and over branch. Climb tree *again* - Two lovely NOS 837 tubes, ready to sell. Neat-and-clean but not-perfectly-level workbench. Concrete basement floor. One lovely NOS 837 tube, ready to sell. - I'll back up those files tomorrow... 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] K2 - Rsspy sound on CW
Hi Jerry, Sometimes RFC15 broken, causing problems at some frequencies for the PLL. Michael, AB9GV I got a report of it sounding very raspy, so I monitored it with another rig and sure enough the CW sound horrible and raspy is a good word for it.. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KPA100 Component Installation Gaff? Acceptable Correction?
Not fully reading the directions before installing the component, I immediately clipped off (at the respective holes where the two component leads were inserted) the leads after installing current sensing resistor R7 into the closest of the 3 holes on the two solder pads. Would it be sufficient to solder short pieces of the clipped off R7 leads to the two pads, from the innermost holes on the pads (where the R7 leads have been soldered and flush-cut), or do I need to remove R7 and properly install a new, replacement resister? Since, even thought there's plenty of electrical continuity, there's a physical discontinuity between the resister leads and the small clipped pieces of lead I've installed, I'm wondering if this is going to cause an electrical performance (or cooling) problem down the road, that can only be avoided by taking out the improperly installed component and installing a replacement component correctly. Thanks, Paul, N6LQ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] One more on the stupid thread
Jim wrote: - Two lovely NOS 837 tubes, ready to sell. Neat-and-clean but not-perfectly-level workbench. Concrete basement floor. One lovely NOS 837 tube, ready to sell. Well, at least it wasn't a 211, 25, 2A3, or some other vintage tube made rare only due to vacuum tube audiofool demand. Fourty years ago, I zapped big-time my dad's Simpson 260 volt-ohm meter, having clipped the meter leads on to the the 2.5 vac output of a 110-to-2.5 volt transformer and then applying 120 vac...but unfortunately I had reversed the primary and secondary windings. If the initial voltage application didn't kill the meter, the inductive surge that occured when I pulled the AC power would have. 73, Mike / KK5F ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question
In the APRPack Yahoo group we are working on a set of TCP protocols for remote and local operation of digimode software. One goal is remote operation as you suggest. Another is to allow client software to run locally and interact with the modem software. A third goal is to allow UI designers to make good programs for hams to use, and to let DSP designers make good modems, and then to let us lucky hams mix and match. I built a prototype and have screenshots at http://wa5znu.org/rpsk but we are now looking into the issues the prototype raised. I also demo'd a cell phone client once and there are screenshots there. Leigh / WA5ZNU On Tue, 3 Jan 2006 9:11 am, Larry Phipps wrote: Jeff, take a look at my website, www.telepostinc.com. Go to the links about remote control and software control. Also, if you take QST, look in the October 2005 issue for my article on remote control. If you're not a member, I can email you a copy. 73, Larry N8LP Jeff Davis wrote: I would like to be able to control a rig and run various digital modes remotely from my wireless network. I imagine a rig setup in the shack that I can access from my wireless laptop in the other part of the house. I'd like to be capable of running psk31 and other keyboard modes in this manner. I'm pretty certain that I have read about others doing this, but I have had no luck finding any online resources to explain how it is done. Any pointers to online or printed resources would be appreciated. 73, ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraftHelp: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
This thread is vaguely disturbing, but I'll add my 2 cents. At about age 9, I came into possession of a 5 square, midrange TV speaker. It had heavy-duty leads, stripped, tinned, and ready to go. I wondered what 60 Hz sounded like, and there was no shortage of AC outlets in my room. Fortunately for my young ears, the speaker coil vaporized within a few seconds. 73, Wayne N6KR --- http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Mistakes (WAS: One more on the stupid thread)
One key point about making mistakes is this: All of us have survived them, at least so far. Not everyone does. Ham radio has lost a lot of great ops to falls from towers, slips out of trees or off roofs and, mostly in the past, electrocution. Electrocution is not the huge danger it was when we were routinely poking around circuits that would be energized with hundreds or thousands of volts. Still, lower voltages can produce nasty shocks under the right conditions and it's easy to get painful burns from RF or hot components when working around modern gear. In power supplies the mains voltage is absolutely deadly. The difference between a painful injury and a fatal one is sometimes very, very small. Especially when a small injury makes one jump or fall. Mistakes are a part of life. They are sometimes funny, often frustrating and always a warning. Ron AC7AC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
I've been racking my brain to see if I've done anything stupid. Well, there is that time I heated the sand of an ant hill with a magnifying glass. After 5 minutes nothing happened so I touched it see if it was hot. Believe me it WAS! I tried to make a watch demagnetizer by winding about 5 feet of wire around a cardboard core and plugging the ends into the wall outlet. Thank God for circuit breakers. Worst of all was the time I came in from playing outside and found my 25 watt soldering iron on my bed. The iron was on and the bedspread was burned / melted under the iron. I had apparently left it plugged in when I went outside hours earlier. And of course there was that little surprise winter swim in a manure pit but that is getting very OT! - Keith KD1E - ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
How about landing long on a short runway? 6000 lbs of metal and fuel screaming down the last half of the runway at 100+ MPH on top of a few square inches of burning rubber, then melting rims; off the end and into the dirt. Airport closed briefly. Took off two days later with a lighter wallet and more respect for the laws of physics. Craig NZ0R K1 #1966 K2/100 #4941 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Yet another one for the stupid thread
I have a few dating back to the early and mid 1950s that launched my start in Ham Radio... (1) I inserted a flat bladed screw driver into a wall outlet; I was stunned to learn that I could fly, but was scared enough to avoid a repeat of that. What the heck was I thinking anyway? admittedly, I was pre-school, but still... (2) Having constructed my first 40 meter receiver, I was stringing up an end fed inverted L for it in my grandparent's pecan tree; I shimmied out on a branch a bit to far, and fell down into a fig tree that was filled with wasps - I received over 20 stings and subsequently became quite allergic to insect stings. The good news? I did not bring the antenna down with me, and it served me well for a few years, suitably initiating my Ham and SWL life. (3) a few decades later, I bridged an open ground on a pipeline (I was working on some actuators for the valves) and found that the aurora can induce quite a healthy charge - wrench glowing red, closed end opened, burnt hand in spite of leather gloves and so on. I have of course continued in my stupidity as I age... (4) More recent events that I might confess? Last year I was working on my tower, unclipped the safety lanyard to change levels; I slipped, and my fall was arrested by my left foot catching in the zig-zag of the next rung down; I was hanging inverted, my cell phone slipped out of my pocket, and I had no way to call for help. Note to self: use 2 safety lanyards or one and a fall arrestor. The good news? I am still here, and I learned to call and get real help when climbing towers, it is no longer in my area of competence (if it ever was). Cheers! 73 de Dave, W5SV ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
I learned that nail polish remover was actually paint thinner on the cabinet of one of my boatanchors when I was much younger. I thought it would make a good cleaner. It sure did.. Cleaned the cabinet right down to bare metal! DOH! To this day I still have a reminder of that on the back corner of my HQ-180. James Kern Network Administrator Kurt S. Adler, Inc. 1107 Broadway New York, NY 10010 212-924-0900 x222 (work) 212-807-0575 (fax) 908-451-6801 (cell) 800-209-7438 (pager) [EMAIL PROTECTED] -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Darwin, Keith Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 3:04 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT I've been racking my brain to see if I've done anything stupid. Well, there is that time I heated the sand of an ant hill with a magnifying glass. After 5 minutes nothing happened so I touched it see if it was hot. Believe me it WAS! I tried to make a watch demagnetizer by winding about 5 feet of wire around a cardboard core and plugging the ends into the wall outlet. Thank God for circuit breakers. Worst of all was the time I came in from playing outside and found my 25 watt soldering iron on my bed. The iron was on and the bedspread was burned / melted under the iron. I had apparently left it plugged in when I went outside hours earlier. And of course there was that little surprise winter swim in a manure pit but that is getting very OT! - Keith KD1E - ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] KPA100 Component Installation Gaff? AcceptableCorrection?
Paul, Well, to keep you going, I would suggest the soldered-on leads should be adequate to carry the current, and will be OK for a while. But some consideration should be given to providing a good heat conductor through the leads too. I believe the continuous leads would allow better heat dissipation from the resistor. If it were me, I would order a replacement, but you can use that one for now with no harm - the current drawn is not very high until you start testing the KPA100 at full output. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Not fully reading the directions before installing the component, I immediately clipped off (at the respective holes where the two component leads were inserted) the leads after installing current sensing resistor R7 into the closest of the 3 holes on the two solder pads. Would it be sufficient to solder short pieces of the clipped off R7 leads to the two pads, from the innermost holes on the pads (where the R7 leads have been soldered and flush-cut), or do I need to remove R7 and properly install a new, replacement resister? Since, even thought there's plenty of electrical continuity, there's a physical discontinuity between the resister leads and the small clipped pieces of lead I've installed, I'm wondering if this is going to cause an electrical performance (or cooling) problem down the road, that can only be avoided by taking out the improperly installed component and installing a replacement component correctly. Thanks, Paul, N6LQ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Weller WTCPT Solder Station
At 15:51 01/02/2006, Paul Kelly wrote: I need to replace the on-off switch for this soldering iron station. Would anyone have the parts number and/or best place to order from. Gregory Beat, W9GB, seems to be even more obsessive about his love for the Weller soldering stations. (I only have three.;-)) G. Beat [EMAIL PROTECTED] Here is a couple of recent posts about Weller stuff from the forum: --- The Weller station is still under Weller warranty -- IF less than 1 year old. I would definitely contact Weller / Cooper Tools for warranty repair. http://www.cooperhandtools.com/brands/electronic_applications/index.htm Here is the Adobe Acrobat warranty informaiton, note that out of warranty work can be expensive. http://www.cooperhandtools.com/brands/electronic_applications/PDFs/WellerRepairPricingPolicy.pdf Likely the problem is within the Weller base unit's electronics or possibly the temperature probe inside the iron. Save yourself some $$ and hold off on an iron purchase that you may not need (this is NOT a TCP series - where an iron change is 95% possibility of the problem). Call them Monday. Greg w9gb Weller Contact information: Repair Department P.O. Box 728 Apex, NC 27539 1000 Lufkin Road Apex, NC 27502 Phone: (800) 476-3030 Ext. 2 Fax: (919) 387-2640 www.cooperhandtools.com -- -- BTW, the fellow I talked to at Weller tech support, Bubba Powers, is outstanding. I left him a voice mail this morning, and he called me back a few hours later. He was also very helpful. 800-476-3030 is his number if you have any Weller iron problems. -- Hope this helps! Tim Raymer 73 de KA0OUV K2 #1383 Timothy A. Raymer Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services traymer[at]mail.state.mo.usRaymeT[at]dhss.mo.gov KA0OUV[at]arrl.net ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Yet another on the stupid thread
OK, my daughter was going to replace the switch cover in her room. Next thing we heard the pop of a fuse blowing and she jumped... Ask her what happened and she said a spark jumped and the lights went out. I told her you can't do that with power on and Don't be silly dad, I turned the switch off. I got her a bulletin from the hardware store about electrical safety that afternoon. 73 Chuck AA8VS ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Mistakes (WAS: One more on the stupid thread)
Love this thread, makes me feel more 'normal'. However, from an earlier post... -Original Message- ... In power supplies the mains voltage is absolutely deadly. The father in me yearns to leave this alone, but the physics teacher in me requires me to set this record straight. Except in pretty extreme circumstances, mains voltages (in the US where the mains run around 117 VAC) are not generally considered fatal. As we all (should) know, it ain't the voltage that does ya in, its the current. While it only takes about 24 volts to push a fatal current, it all boils down to Ohm's Law. A typically healthy person has a normal body resistance of about 100,000 ohms (a pretty low estimate), and across a 117 volt line, that's only about 0.0012 amps, a bit more than one milliamp, which is not a fatal current. It should take 50 times that much (for a second or longer if through the heart or brain) to do a person in, although you can certainly feel 1 milliamp! Even considering that 117 is RMS, and the actual voltage can be as high as 170, you should still be safe. Now, all bets are off if you're standing in a pool of water or are drenched from rain, or do everything else wrong. Best advice I ever got was from an old navy chief (when I was a young radioman), to wit: One hand for the Navy, one hand for yourself. IOW, when working on anything that could possibly have live current, keep one hand behind your back. Completing a circuit with both hands puts your pumper in the circuit which is powered by electricity. Tom ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] More Stupidity
Seeing all of these Stupid posts reminded me of one of mine. Another story of experimenting with our good friend AC wall outlets. 1965, I was in the 6th grade. In science class we learned abt the making of Mr. Edison's electric light. upon returning home I decieded to make my own ! I borrowed an old mason jar from my mom and removed an old lamp cord from a dead lamp got a hammer es some nails and started to build ! You were supposed to put the nails into a rubber stopper, wrap some nichrome wire between the nails, put the stopper in the top of the jar, attach the power leads to the nails, and make light ! Well as luck would have it I didn't have a rubber stopper, so i just used the metal top of the mason jar. I pounded the nails halfway into the lid shorting them and carefully wrapped some wire around the nails. I lit a peice of paper on fire and put it in the jar es secured the the lid to burn off the oxygen in the jar. then attached the 2 ends of the lamp cord t o the nails protruding from the top of the jar. I set the LAMP on the bed and went to plug it in to the nearest wall outlet fully expecting to see light. when I plugeged it in I saw light alright. Arcs en sparks from everywhere ! I blew all the fuses in the house, but not before watching my lightbulb blow up, es the lamp cord melt onto my bed spread catching it on fire ! I must have jumped 10 feet in the air ! I beat the fire out just in time to hear my mom yelling what's going on in there ? I was still shaking when my mom entered the smoke filled room. And although i was lucky to have not been electricuted, that episode did end my Edison experiments. I was also pleasantly supprised that I didn't get a wippin when my dad got home from work. Guess they figured i'd learned my lesson. And then there was radio Hope u enjoyed one of my stupid moments. 73 Gregg WB8LZG ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
There's logic in this idea. When also 9 I decided to turn my father's shortwave receiver into a transmitter by wiring a microphone in series with the mains cable. Thank goodness it was an ex-army bakelite microphone - when I pressed the button all the lights went out! Simon Brown --- http://blog.hb9drv.ch/ - Original Message - From: wayne burdick [EMAIL PROTECTED] At about age 9, I came into possession of a 5 square, midrange TV speaker. It had heavy-duty leads, stripped, tinned, and ready to go. I wondered what 60 Hz sounded like, and there was no shortage of AC outlets in my room. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Yet another on the stupid thread
Chuck Mabbott wrote: OK, my daughter was going to replace the switch cover in her room. Next thing we heard the pop of a fuse blowing and she jumped... Ask her what happened and she said a spark jumped and the lights went out. I told her you can't do that with power on and Don't be silly dad, I turned the switch off. I got her a bulletin from the hardware store about electrical safety that afternoon. 73 Chuck AA8VS Didn't realize there were so many blondes around until this thread started -- _ _ _ _ _ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ John L. Sielke ( W ) ( 2 ) ( A ) ( G ) ( N ) http://w2agn.net \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ CRUSTY OLD CURMUDGEON - AND PROUD OF IT! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
I should point out that at age 9 I managed a sort of series - parallel arrangement. The fact that I am still breathing shows that I couldn't even blow myself up properly. Simon Brown --- http://blog.hb9drv.ch/ - Original Message - From: Simon Brown (HB9DRV) [EMAIL PROTECTED] There's logic in this idea. When also 9 I decided to turn my father's shortwave receiver into a transmitter by wiring a microphone in series with the mains cable. Thank goodness it was an ex-army bakelite microphone - when I pressed the button all the lights went out! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Accuracy of K1's built-in power / swr meter?
Hi everyone, I am wondering how accurate is the built-in metering of the K1? For all of my testing and alignment etc. I've been running the K1 through an MFJ cross-needle HF meter, and I've noticed that there is a very consistant difference in the display on the MFJ meter and what the K1 reports. The MFJ meter is always reporting between 1 watt and 1.5 watts lower power than the K1 indicates. For example, with the K1 set to 2 watts out, in Tune mode, the display on the K1 wanders around between 1.9 and 2.2 while the MFJ meter seems quite stable at 1 watt. At higher powers, such as when finding a peak during alignment, the K1 indicates as high as 7+ watts, while the MFJ only goes as high as about 5 watts. Normally, I tend to trust the analog meter over the digital stuff, but in this case the MFJ meter was dropped last month and might have sustained some damage. Plus, it's not really intended as a QRP meter so it might not be that accurate at low powers. I also have the KAT-1 and I understand that its meter is 'more accurate' than what's in the base K1, but not really sure how much more. Thanks! 73 de Stephanie va3uxb ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question
Thanks for the many responses to my inquiry. I plan to look at the sites mentioned this evening. Vy 73, Jeff Davis wrote: I would like to be able to control a rig and run various digital modes remotely from my wireless network. I imagine a rig setup in the shack that I can access from my wireless laptop in the other part of the house. I'd like to be capable of running psk31 and other keyboard modes in this manner. I'm pretty certain that I have read about others doing this, but I have had no luck finding any online resources to explain how it is done. Any pointers to online or printed resources would be appreciated. 73, -- Jeff, KE9V ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
If you had experimented with earphones, all of us here would all be using Japanese transceivers today. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wayne burdick Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 11:31 AM To: Elecraft Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious This thread is vaguely disturbing, but I'll add my 2 cents. At about age 9, I came into possession of a 5 square, midrange TV speaker. It had heavy-duty leads, stripped, tinned, and ready to go. I wondered what 60 Hz sounded like, and there was no shortage of AC outlets in my room. Fortunately for my young ears, the speaker coil vaporized within a few seconds. 73, Wayne N6KR --- http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Yet another on the stupid thread
When I was about seven, I read books at night when I was supposed to be sleeping, by the light of a night-light. The problem was that the night-light wasn't very bright. So what did I do? I attached the night-light to an extension power cord, and held one end of the extension cord with my teeth. One night, some of my saliva got into the plug... I don't think I tripped any circuit breakers, but the shock sure rang my bells. How did we ever survive childhood? - Rob KE7EAG K2 #5004 (almost finished) On Tue, 03 Jan 2006 13:26:17 -0800, Chuck Mabbott [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: OK, my daughter was going to replace the switch cover in her room. Next thing we heard the pop of a fuse blowing and she jumped... Ask her what happened and she said a spark jumped and the lights went out. I told her you can't do that with power on and Don't be silly dad, I turned the switch off. I got her a bulletin from the hardware store about electrical safety that afternoon. 73 Chuck AA8VS ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
When I was in my early teens I was working on some project or another, that used the mains power. I remember I was always unhooking and rehooking it as I worked on it so I ended up just using a mains cord with an inline switch, that ended in a pair of aligator clips. At one point I had it all hooked up and wanted to show my parents my project, so I pushed the button and something I'd installed incorrectly on the project vaporized with the surge of AC power. Unknown to me, this surge also fused the switch contacts closed. Dissapointed I 'turned off' the switch and grabbed the aligator clips (one with each hand) to remove them from the circuit. That was my first introduction to 120VAC in one arm and out the other. It didn't knock me out but I sure jumped, and it left both hands and forearms numb for about 15 minutes. Oh and needless to say, the folks were very underwhelmed with my electronics skills. Happily they never did anything to try and put me off electronics, just encouraged me to be a little more careful. My first exposure to elecricity though came when I was much younger, perhaps only about 5. I had a little record player and one time while plugging it in, I was holding the little 2-prong plug wrong. Basicaly my thumb was touching one prong and a finger touching the other prong. The player must have had a transformer or something that was hooked into the circuit because although I got some current, it was not the least bit uncomfortable. It felt like my whole hand was being massaged from the inside. Once I 'discovered' this, I did it again a number of times, as it was a bit of a kick. I know I showed the 'trick' to my sister but I'm pretty sure I never shared that with the parents - I didn't want them to take away the record player. 73 de Stephanie va3uxb ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Accuracy of K1's built-in power / swr meter?
Thanks Jim! Sorry I should have clarified, when I was testing / comparing the KAT1 to the MFJ I had the KAT1 set to CLP which bypasses/disables the tuning. I know if the KAT1 is set to TUN then it's not going to present 50 ohms on the antenna jack. 73 de Stephanie va3uxb On 03-Jan-2006, at 17.48.57, k4zm wrote: Stephanie: If you have the KAT1 in the K1 and have the MFJ meter connected to the output of the K1 you are looking at an inaccurate reading on the MFJ because it is located between the antenna and the input of the tuner. The only place to read it accurately would be to place your MFJ meter between the KAT1 and the K1. This is almost impossible to do. Since you are between the antenna and the KAT1 your MFJ is not looking at 50 load and the reactances of the antenna that are tuned out by the tuner are destroying the accurately of the MFJ Meter. 73 Jim Younce K4ZM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
That was my first introduction to 120VAC in one arm and out the other. Pah, you're all a bunch o' wimps! 240V in EU ;-) -- Nosey Nick Waterman, G7RZQ, k2 #5209. #include stddisclaimer[EMAIL PROTECTED] The gene pool could use a little chlorine. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
When I was 5 I brought a hot wire electrician's test screwdriver with a neon bulb and resistor inside to my kindergarten vlass for Show and Tell. I told the teacher, You just stick this screwdriver in the outlet and ... For some reason they wouldn't let me show the class. Leigh / WA5ZNU ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KX1 sensitivity problem
Hallo Elecrafters, last afternoon I went through KX1 receiver alignment but the results were disappointing. Not having a signal generator, I connected the KX1 to my W3DZZ. By turning the capacitance trimmers, I could peak band noise, but could barely hear the strongest signal on the bands, although I could hear several good signals on both 20 and 40m when switching to my K1, which should have about the same sensitivity. Checked L1 and L2 with a DVM: both were 1ohm; tried to inject a signal into the path from the antenna jack to CA/L6/R1/CB/L7 by touching with a wire and couldn't find any interruption. Voltages on the pins of U4,U5,U6, Q2/Q3 agree with the manual. I measured the voltage on the base of Q7 and found -0.4V, which is funny as R28 is floating (R26 not in place yet) and I can't understand why it should have a negative voltage. Anybody out there who had the same problem or could give me a hint? Any suggestion is welcome. Tnx es 73 de Pier, IK1RDN K2 s/n 4104 K1 s/n 1975 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
Nick Waterman wrote: That was my first introduction to 120VAC in one arm and out the other. Pah, you're all a bunch o' wimps! 240V in EU ;-) Power usage being equal, this would mean less current. 73 de Larry W2LJ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
Two events in my life caused me to have a healthy respect for electricity. The first occurred when I was 5 or 6 years old. I was home from school with the flu; and I remember that it must have been a particularly bad spell as Mom had a vaporizer going in my room. One morning as I was getting better, she told me to unplug it for the daytime. I pulled on the plug (not the wire!) and pulled and pulled and pulled; but it wouldn't budge. Being somewhat mechanically minded, I decided I needed a lever to pry it out. My sister's letter opener seemed like just the ticket. Boy, the house went dark real fast, the letter opener vaporized and I nearly messed myself! Dad was NOT happy with having to come home from work to change out the fuse in the fuse box! The second incident came at where I work now. Since incident number 1 above, I had always had a healthy respect for electricity. I repair professional photographic studio equipment for a living and am always in contact with stroboscopic packs which can deliver a flash up to 3200 Joules. Needless to day, I'm always very careful. Then came the one day that I started to repair a flash head that a photographer tried to fix himself - couldn't; but didn't tell me that he tried! I hooked up the head to a pack, held it in my hand and fired it. Normally, the housing is grounded. He had mistakenly wired hot to the housing. I think I threw that flash head across the room with enough force to throw it through the wall! My arm was numb for about 15 minutes; and after that, I always gave things a visual going over before trying them out. I still have a healthy respect for electricity and an even healthier respect for the fact that someone else's mistakes might cause me grave danger! 73 de Larry W2LJ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT - NIR-12 troubleshooting
Well, I must humbly submit my most recent gaff. It's nothing like landing long on a short runway (yikes!), but it relates to my inquiry on troubleshooting my JPS NIR-12. For several days now, Don W3FPR has been trying to help me figure out why power was not being applied to this unit. It was thought to be a bad diode running in series in the 12 volt line. Why was I getting 13 volts on the anode and virtually no volts on the cathode side. It was as if there was no ground on the cathode side of the circuit. I tried shorting the diode which made an impressive smoke job of an electrolytic capacitor shunting to ground. Well then I retraced my steps. I discovered that when I pulled the unit out of the shelf, the Radio Shack modular power plug (which goes to a 'wall wart') came off the 2-prong saddle on the wire. I merely plugged it back in the saddle. The AHAH moment came when I checked the polarity of the plug - I had accidentally reversed the polarity of this plug (VERY easy to do with these modular plugs). The diode was simply doing what it was designed to do - protect the unit against dumb things like this. In the immortal word of Homer Simpson - D'oh !!! Don, thanks for being SOo patient with me !!! 73, Jamie WB4YDL ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] One more on the stupid thread
I will just chime in and give 2 experiences. We had moved to a farm house and I was trying to get a rope over a certain branch. I used a small hammer tied to the end of the rope and was throwing it up in the air to get over the branch. The hammer was coming towards me as I tried to move on icy ground, and I put my hands over my head. They protected my head but hit hard one of my finger nails. I got a needle and sterilized it and worked in around to get a hole in my nail to relieve the pressure. I was not 9 years old but 33 years old! I had a homebrew amp with 2-813 tubes. The cabinet was perforated aluminum. It looked like one of the 813s was glowing red so I had taken the top off and was talking on 20 meters I discovered the tube that was glowing red and decided just to set the top back on the amp. Instead one corner of the aluminum top dipped into the amp and touched the cap on one of the 813s. That was an exilerating experience. The perforated top went flying off to the left and my 104D mike went flying off to the right. I was thankful to be alive. I did not have a good feeling for about an hour. 2200volts at 500millamps! Incidently I still have the D104 mike and the last time I used it on a Ten Tec 544 Triton IV it worked very good. 36 years old. Well, here is one more. I was in northern Mich. in the winter and need to get on the roof of the house to make some adjustments on a antenna. The roof was full of snow and ice underneath so I climbed up a ladder and threw some salt on the pathway to the peak of the roof. I then got off the ladder and put my golf shoes on and climed up the roof. Very crazy thing to do. Paul Gates, KD3JF Elecraft Kits: K1 #0231 KX1 #1186 XG1: Signal Generator - Original Message From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 1:49:19 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] One more on the stupid thread Classic Homers of mine: - Climb tree, install halyard rope for antenna. Forget to tie rope ends together. Climb down tree, breeze shakes tree, short end of rope goes up and over branch. Climb tree *again* - Two lovely NOS 837 tubes, ready to sell. Neat-and-clean but not-perfectly-level workbench. Concrete basement floor. One lovely NOS 837 tube, ready to sell. - I'll back up those files tomorrow... 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Mistakes (WAS: One more on the stupid thread)
As we all (should) know, it ain't the voltage that does ya in, its the current. I understand that the imposition of 60 Hz can cause the heart to fibrillate (flutter uncontrollably) and that's what does you in. Geoff, K6TFZ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Fw: [Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question
Gregg R. Lengling, W9DHI, Un-Retired K2/100 SN 3075 http://www.milwaukeehdtv.org - Original Message - From: Gregg R. Lengling [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Leigh L Klotz, Jr. [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 7:40 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question I found one of the easiest ways is just use HRD (Ham Radio DeluxeFREE ) and if you want to run audio just use Skype with autoanswer. It works great, I take my laptop to work on my long days and use the WiFi at work to play on the bands. And the IT guy at work thought he was a nerd, at least until he walked into my office one day and saw me on the laptop. Gregg R. Lengling, W9DHI, Un-Retired K2/100 SN 3075 http://www.milwaukeehdtv.org - Original Message - From: Leigh L Klotz, Jr. [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Larry Phipps [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Jeff Davis [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 1:22 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Remote Operating Question In the APRPack Yahoo group we are working on a set of TCP protocols for remote and local operation of digimode software. One goal is remote operation as you suggest. Another is to allow client software to run locally and interact with the modem software. A third goal is to allow UI designers to make good programs for hams to use, and to let DSP designers make good modems, and then to let us lucky hams mix and match. I built a prototype and have screenshots at http://wa5znu.org/rpsk but we are now looking into the issues the prototype raised. I also demo'd a cell phone client once and there are screenshots there. Leigh / WA5ZNU On Tue, 3 Jan 2006 9:11 am, Larry Phipps wrote: Jeff, take a look at my website, www.telepostinc.com. Go to the links about remote control and software control. Also, if you take QST, look in the October 2005 issue for my article on remote control. If you're not a member, I can email you a copy. 73, Larry N8LP Jeff Davis wrote: I would like to be able to control a rig and run various digital modes remotely from my wireless network. I imagine a rig setup in the shack that I can access from my wireless laptop in the other part of the house. I'd like to be capable of running psk31 and other keyboard modes in this manner. I'm pretty certain that I have read about others doing this, but I have had no luck finding any online resources to explain how it is done. Any pointers to online or printed resources would be appreciated. 73, ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraftHelp: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] One of my stupid mistakes
Ok, I had just graduated electronics trade school. You know, 20 months of intense training in everything from component identification to superhet receiver theory, to radar fundamentals. It was in 1970 just before I entered the military. I was visiting my parents home in Florida on a humid summer day. My parent's new TV was making some strange arcing sounds coming from around the picture tube high voltage lead. Yep, the humidity was making it easy for the voltage to jump to the chassis. Well, my Dad was reclining in his favorite recliner, watching me take the back off the TV. I borrowed a screwdriver (an oil impregnated wooden handled kind) from him. My technical expertise said, just move the HV lead away from the chassis where it is arcing. So, that is what I started to do, with the set on, so I could monitor my efforts. Naturally, the screwdriver conducted the 15+ thousand volts to ME. The next thing I remember was him laughing at me after I picked myself up from the other side of the room... saying, yep, you are going to make one heck of a technician. 73 Harlan KI4IDA ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] One more on the stupid thread
On Jan 3, 2006, at 9:45 AM, Albers wrote: It was at that moment that I discovered that Mack trucks of that vintage had positive ground!! Ever see a box end wrench instantly get converted to an open end?? This reminds me of a slightly apocryphal story. At a telephone office, a fellow was servicing some equipment. Old telephone offices had a 48 volt backup battery supply to run the phone system. It used huge NiCad batteries and was distributed by large copper buss bars below the floor. Anyway, this fellow had part of the floor pulled up, and he dropped a wrench. It just happened to fall across the buss bars, shorting out the 48 volt supply. As it was described to me, the wrench melted instantly, and just kept on falling between the buss bars Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Quote: Not within a thousand years will man ever fly! -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] the fine line between stupid and curious
I wrapped my fingers around the Elecraft BL1 balun to see if it was getting warm while transmitting... duh... 100+ RF Watts. de Joe, aa4nn ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot?
The volume knob has gotten very, very touchy lately. Very scratchy when adjusting and suddenly blaring at top volume. Is it time for a new volume pot on my K2? 73, Bill Allen - wa5pb K2# 1068 -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.371 / Virus Database: 267.14.11/219 - Release Date: 1/2/2006 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot?
Bill, It certainly does sound like your present volume control is worn out. Replacement is likely easier than trying to 'monkey' with those 'restoration' fixes IMHO - I have never had much luck with the sprays, drops and other stuff that is supposed to repair controls. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- The volume knob has gotten very, very touchy lately. Very scratchy when adjusting and suddenly blaring at top volume. Is it time for a new volume pot on my K2? 73, Bill Allen - wa5pb K2# 1068 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot?
Don could you give some guidance concerning the replacement. I have to do the same thing on my K2. - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 10:05 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot? Bill, It certainly does sound like your present volume control is worn out. Replacement is likely easier than trying to 'monkey' with those 'restoration' fixes IMHO - I have never had much luck with the sprays, drops and other stuff that is supposed to repair controls. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- The volume knob has gotten very, very touchy lately. Very scratchy when adjusting and suddenly blaring at top volume. Is it time for a new volume pot on my K2? 73, Bill Allen - wa5pb K2# 1068 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
Darwin, Keith wrote: Worst of all was the time I came in from playing outside and found my 25 watt soldering iron on my bed. The iron was on and the bedspread was burned / melted under the iron. I had apparently left it plugged in when I went outside hours earlier. Soldering irons! That reminds me of another goof-up: I was working as a radio technician for the city of Binghamton, NY, and was, of course, quite used (ha!) to soldering. One day, while repairing some old boat anchor of a VHF public works radio I suddenly smelled and odd smell, it almost (!) smelled like human fleshwell, it *was* flesh -- mine: I had put my left hand down on top of the plugged-in iron (some Weller unit) and apparently missed any nerve endings that might have reacted to the heat. I bear the scar of a Weller tip and barrel to this day -- and I've never done that again. Ah, the good ole days! 73, Joe, W2RBA ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot?
From the serial number you might consider making the audio gain pot mod while you're in there if it hasn't been done yet. It makes a huge difference in how the audio pot operates, making adjustment less touch even with a new pot. On the Elecraft web site, go to Builder's Resources / Application Notes / K2 AF Pot Application Note for details. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Bill Allen Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 6:51 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot? The volume knob has gotten very, very touchy lately. Very scratchy when adjusting and suddenly blaring at top volume. Is it time for a new volume pot on my K2? 73, Bill Allen - wa5pb K2# 1068 -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.371 / Virus Database: 267.14.11/219 - Release Date: 1/2/2006 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
In my younger years I developed the bad habit of scratching an itch with whatever tool I had in my hand at the time. Yep, you guessed it. One day I absent-mindedly scratched my head with a hot soldering iron. I had a patch of gray hair on the side of my head for years until all my hair turned gray. Anyone remember drawing an arc off the plate cap of a transmitter tube with a wooden lead pencil? 72, Jim W4BQP Joe Malloy wrote: I bear the scar of a Weller tip and barrel to this day -- and I've never done that again. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
Jim W4BQP wrote: Anyone remember drawing an arc off the plate cap of a transmitter tube with a wooden lead pencil? - Many times! Only 1,000 vdc or so on there and enough RF to create a burn that hurt like @[EMAIL PROTECTED] for a month if it found bare skin! What was it Forrest Gump taught us? Ah, yes, Stupid is as stupid does... It's mostly ignorance, though, not stupidity, and some of it pays off. Like the engineer who was developing magnetron power oscillators for radar systems in the 1940's and discovered that the chocolate bar in his nice white shirt pocket had melted and made a mess. Curious, he investigated why. The first Microwave Oven was the result - sold as the Radar Range. At least he got his revenge for the ruined shirt. I haven't gotten that sort of revenge yet. Still looking (where's my lead pencil?) Ron AC7AC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot?
Brent, Since you asked, the pot replacement is actually rather easy - just take it one step at a time - first remove the front panel from the K2 (don't forget the screws from the control panel to the front panel on the inside); then remove all the knobs and the one screw next ot the VCO encoder to separate the front panel board from the metal panel. After that, remove the pot itself in whatever way you remove such soldering - if you do not have a powered desoldering tool, I suggest that the easiest way is to destroy the existing pot (no sense in preserving it, you were going to throw it away anyhow). With a set of heavy diagonal cutters, first cut off the 3 pins and then crush the pot body a bit so you can cut the two mounting ears off - after that, you can easily heat the stubs left in the board pull them out - clean up with solder wick and put the new pot on the board - re-assemble after doing the AF Gain pot wiring mod (if applicable). And as Ron pointed out - if your K2 serial number is less than 3000 (probably is if you are replacing the pot), make the changes for the AF Gain pot wiring mod - it will make a difference in the future for longevity of your new AF gain pot and makes the AF Gain control less 'touchy' and less noisy. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Don could you give some guidance concerning the replacement. I have to do the same thing on my K2. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] 20th century K2s (was RE: Time for a new Volume pot?)
hi Ron - ol' #525 has been getting pretty scratchy lately, and it has the AF Pot Mod. I guess they just get old and scratchy like the rest of us...;-) I found my misplaced XG1 the other day and went around measuring rigs. #1250 was singing along at MDS=-136dBm, but #525 wasn't close (haven't used it since Field Day, I'm afraid). After a bit of poking around, I found a marginal solder joint had finally gone bad in the T-R switch (RFC2). Some new solder and good as #1250! cheers! - jeff wk6i At 07:54 PM 1/3/2006, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: From the serial number you might consider making the audio gain pot mod while you're in there if it hasn't been done yet. It makes a huge difference in how the audio pot operates, making adjustment less touch even with a new pot. On the Elecraft web site, go to Builder's Resources / Application Notes / K2 AF Pot Application Note for details. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Bill Allen Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 6:51 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Time for a new Volume pot? The volume knob has gotten very, very touchy lately. Very scratchy when adjusting and suddenly blaring at top volume. Is it time for a new volume pot on my K2? 73, Bill Allen - wa5pb K2# 1068 -- Jeff Stai [EMAIL PROTECTED] Twisted Oak Winery http://www.twistedoak.com/ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
At K2USA we had a BC-610 in the main studio (1964). It stood a little over desk high and was truly the Mother of all Boatanchors. To tune it, you had to lift a small hatch in the top surface and rotate a link coupling. But, of course, you had to switch off the B+ first. If you forgot to do that, there was an interlock on the small hatch to cut the B+. We had two military operators (not hams) who handled the MARS traffic for us so we could ham. Somebody had discovered that the interlock was not working earlier in the day. I taped down the hatch, taped a note over that so the ops would have to remove the note to open the hatch, told the two ops to be absolutely sure they shut off the B+ before tuning the TX and left for home. An hour later, I get a call that one of the ops had been electrocuted and taken to sick call. Well he hadn't been electrocuted exactly. He opened the hatch, rested his elbow on the top, reached in with a screwdriver to tweak the link and hit the high voltage with the TX keyed. It blew a 1/4 inch hole out his elbow where it contacted the top surface. They patched him up, gave him a tetanus shot and gave him the night off. I asked the doc why he got a tetanus shot and he said RF burns seem to cook below the surface somewhat and the tetanus shot helps internal damage heal faster for some reason. I was stupid to allow them to use the TX, and I was stupid not to realize how stupid the op was. We get really careless with all the solid-state gear. Often even dropping a screw in an operating circuit, or carelessly dragging a test lead through a hot ciruit fails to do anything. Many of these circuits just bounce right back once the short is removed (not always). The second day I had my Drake 2-NT, I moved a wire out of the way with my finger and got a little 350v DC wake-up for my carelessness. It's something that is done routinely in my Elecraft gear. Maybe this interesting series will remind us that there are dangers inherent in this hobby. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Ron D'Eau Claire Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 8:40 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT Jim W4BQP wrote: Anyone remember drawing an arc off the plate cap of a transmitter tube with a wooden lead pencil? - Many times! Only 1,000 vdc or so on there and enough RF to create a burn that hurt like @[EMAIL PROTECTED] for a month if it found bare skin! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: 20th century K2s (was RE: Time for a new Volume pot?)
Jeff WK6I wrote: hi Ron - ol' #525 has been getting pretty scratchy lately, and it has the AF Pot Mod. I guess they just get old and scratchy like the rest of us...;-) I found my misplaced XG1 the other day and went around measuring rigs. #1250 was singing along at MDS=-136dBm, but #525 wasn't close (haven't used it since Field Day, I'm afraid). After a bit of poking around, I found a marginal solder joint had finally gone bad in the T-R switch (RFC2). Some new solder and good as #1250! --- Hi Jeff: Yes, the audio pots do get old. That's why I didn't suggest the mod as a fix. Bill's K2 pretty obviously has a worn-out pot, but it's a good investment to do the mod while its apart to install a new pot. It can be downright scary how long an unsoldered joint or a poorly soldered joint will work just fine! They are time bombs waiting sometimes years before showing up as an intermittent for other weird behavior. Ron AC7AC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
EricJ wrote: At K2USA we had a BC-610 in the main studio (1964). It stood a little over desk high and was truly the Mother of all Boatanchors. To tune it, you had to lift a small hatch in the top surface and rotate a link coupling. But, of course, you had to switch off the B+ first. If you forgot to do that, there was an interlock on the small hatch to cut the B+. We had two military operators (not hams) who handled the MARS traffic for us so we could ham. Somebody had discovered that the interlock was not working earlier in the day. I taped down the hatch, taped a note over that so the ops would have to remove the note to open the hatch, told the two ops to be absolutely sure they shut off the B+ before tuning the TX and left for home. Ah, yes, the B+ supply! Another stupid event I recall was when I was working on my Galaxy V MkII transceiver -- the transmitter section -- and didn't realize the B+ (ca 600 volts) was *always* switched on when the thing was even only receiving. I brushed against the loading capacitor (variable, natch) and, well, let's just say the scars on my palm are still visible. I really like the 12 volt solid state stuff. Oh, and by the way -- it was right after the aforementioned experience that I developed an interest in QRP (1975)! 73, Joe, W2RBA ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Stupid, stupid, stupid - OT
in high school I worked for the local tv shop... helping in the store and doing alot of roof antenna work, inside the hot attics also,.,,, so I had a lot of end of spool runs of 300 ohm twinline... So I used it for my s-38 antenna,,,and my telephone line my intercom in the neighborhood and even sometimes feeding 110vac around the bedroom. I also used to strip the twinlead with my teeth that ended one night when i stripped the wrong wire the one plugged in the wall. That probably is why later in life my company represented a company called Mountain Computer who made HDD drives backups for apples and IBM pcs, before wither sold hard drives. I musta been crazy !!! ERIC WAS THE CHIEF ENGINEER. we reacquainted at Dayton as he Wayne introduced the K2. bill sn 269 32xx ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] 6W from KX1?
I bet this is trying to tell me something, but I don't know what. Tonight, my KX1 (with KXAT1 ATU) tunes up my doublet on 40m and tells me that it's putting out 6W, with a 1.0 match. That just doesn't seem right. The 20m result is about 4W, as expected. I'm running from a 13.8v supply. Huh? (Bands were horrible anyway - strong noise right on 7038 and SSB on 7040...) 73 de chris K6DBG ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
