[Elecraft] follow-up to last message re: VCO problems
I have been doing some circuit checking and it appears that D13 has open -circuited; I will replace it and see if that makes it work. -- David Dawson The greatest dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well-meaning but without understanding. -- Justice Louis D. Brandeis ___ 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] Alignment of VCO - Problem
Hi David Are you sure you wired the test probe connector (the white plastic thingy) correctly? I made the mistake of swapping the wires in the connector and the result was exactly as you described. Check the drawing of the connector in the manual carefully to see you didn't swap the braid and the inner conductor contacts. Hope this helps. 73 and enjoy building your radio Glenn ON4WIX - Original Message - From: David C Dawson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, November 13, 2006 5:17 AM Subject: [Elecraft] Alignment of VCO - Problem Hi, I am at the stage in building my K2 on page 60 in the VCO test. Up to this stage all was well. Now, with the probe _definitely_ connected to TP1. I get a reading of all zeros. Does anybody know the trouble-shooting procedure? Thanks. (I didn't do the calibration of C22, due to not having a frequency counter, but the reading was withing range) -- David Dawson The greatest dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well-meaning but without understanding. -- Justice Louis D. Brandeis ___ 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] Elecraft Junk (K2 Modifications)
Hey Scott, Maybe you *should* put that unopened kit on e-bay! You could instead buy another rig that is a true black box. One that you can't get inside of to fix and one that has a lower reliability rate. Something less mature with more issues. And you'd get to spend more money in the process! Sarcasm aside, I understand your concern, but remember, this reflector is like the Dr's waiting room. If you hang out there you'll soon believe that every one is sick. What you see here is the list of Elecraft stuff that people are having problems with. Nearly all of the I'm having problems posts are self inflicted issues. Cold solder joints, poorly prepared toroids, parts inserted wrong, assembly instructions skipped, settings wrong, etc. There are MANY people and even some idiots like myself who were able to build the K2 with no issues. Worked right the first time and is still going strong. How strong? Strong enough that it has replaced the IC-735, TenTec Omni V, Kenwood TS-830s as my only rig. A couple of thoughts: 1. Rework Eliminators - these are great. Many of the K2 options require a small mod to the K2. If you don't want to do those mods, get the Rework Eliminators. With RE, you do all the option mods at the time of initial build. Then when you add options later, you indeed just plug them in. Sweet. 2. Prewound Toroids - Another fabulous thing. Toroids can be awk to wind and tin. If not properly tinned, problems with the kit go up. For a fair price, you can buy toroids already wound and tinned and they're a thing of beauty to boot. Small price to pay for a first class construction job IMHO. As to Elecraft building Junk, while their stuff isn't perfect (surprise!), it is pretty darn good. The K2 has the benefit of being a well established design with a lot of miles under it's belt. There have been several minor upgrades to the rig and what we're buying today is a refined, tried true rig that has fabulous RX and TX performance and far fewer issues or rough edges than many new commercially built rigs. No key clicks on TX, no major issues on RX, no need to do HW reset when the rig locks up, no problems with the keyer stealing cycles away from the DSP, etc. - Keith N1AS - -Original Message- I ordered my K2 before I joined this forum, and now that I did, I am thinking maybe I shouldn't have ordered it. It hasn't been delivered yet. Is everyone having trouble with them as it sounds on this froum? Why is it necessary for all the modifications that are being done to them? What's all this about completely removing RFC10 from the KPA100? Did Elecraft do a bad job of designing this thing? I just ordered the basic unit plus the noise blanker, and was planning on adding the kpa100, and the KSB2 ssb unit later. I had the understanding that these two options were plug in boards, but it sounds like a rebuild to add anything. I have always hesitated to take components out of a circuit board because there is a good chance that damage to the board might occur. Will a new kit that I just ordered four days ago need modifications, and if so, how will I know what modifications I will need to do? Would someone please tell me why I shouldn't put this thing up for sale on Ebay in the unopened box? Thanks Scott N5SM ___ 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: K2 Modifications
Scott I bought my K2 kit last winter just because I wanted the enjoyment of building it. I have several radios in my shack, so I didn't need another. After I finished building the kit, I had a chance to do an A/B comparision with the K2 and my other rigs. The K2 is head-and-sholders above the other rigs in performance. I figured that the K2 would get put aside and used rarely, but it is now my preferred rig. The reason you see so much rework on the radio is not because there were problems with the design, but because there are hundreds of very competant folks who've had a chance to play with the design and offer improvements. An off the shelf rig like an ICOM doesn't evolve like the K2. Most of the rework is now included in the basic boards. There are a few cuts and jumpers, but very few. The K2 is not for everyone. This is a very challengine kit. There are thousands of parts to install. Even a good assembler will take about 40 hours for the basic kit, and more than that for the accessory boards. If you have doubts about your skills or patience, by all means, sell the kit. If you chose to build this kit, I would suggest getting the rework eliminator kit if you anticipate adding more boards in the future. Regards Rich - Ke1ev From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K2 Modifications Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2006 20:14:14 -0600 I ordered my K2 before I joined this forum, and now that I did, I am thinking maybe I shouldn't have ordered it. It hasn't been delivered yet. Is everyone having trouble with them as it sounds on this froum? Why is it necessary for all the modifications that are being done to them? What's all this about completely removing RFC10 from the KPA100? Did Elecraft do a bad job of designing this thing? I just ordered the basic unit plus the noise blanker, and was planning on adding the kpa100, and the KSB2 ssb unit later. I had the understanding that these two options were plug in boards, but it sounds like a rebuild to add anything. I have always hesitated to take components out of a circuit board because there is a good chance that damage to the board might occur. Will a new kit that I just ordered four days ago need modifications, and if so, how will I know what modifications I will need to do? Would someone please tell me why I shouldn't put this thing up for sale on Ebay in the unopened box? Thanks Scott N5SM ___ ___ 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] PA failure
Dear group! We have a serious problem with our 10watt PA of my K2.2 weeks ago the 10w PA suddenly didn´t work any more.A friend helped me to fix the problem(we replaced the PA transistors 3 times), but now we need your help.The PA needs far too much current and the maximum power output on all bands is 2 watt.Everything seems to be okay, but the current of the bias of Q7/Q8 is 0.656V instead of 0.600. The PA transistors and the diodes of the low pass filter are okay too.Can you please help? vy73, Chris-OE5CSP -- Der GMX SmartSurfer hilft bis zu 70% Ihrer Onlinekosten zu sparen! Ideal für Modem und ISDN: http://www.gmx.net/de/go/smartsurfer ___ 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: (Elecraft) K2 Modifications
Scott, The basic K2 KSB2 have no mods since the Serial number approx. 4000. The S/N now is approaching 6000. Elecraft is the only supplier of ham gear that I am aware of that has the guts to tell their customers about improvements they have made to their products and make the mods available to their customers. DO NOT sell your kits on ebay because of possible mods suggested by Elecraft. When you get your order you will see how easy the kits are to assemble and line up. You will not be sorry. Incidentily the KPA100 has not had any mods for about 4 years, and those just announced are not necessarily required in all installations. 73, Bob VE3XM K2 S/N 04575 K2/100 S/N 04031 ___ 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 Modifications
Scott, I am a new ham that just got back into radio after a 30 some year hiatus. I like you joined the reflector about the same time I purchased the kit. I did however spend about two years looking at the K2 and Elecraft in general before making my purchase decision. After reading many favorable reviews of the Elecraft line products as well as their service, I made my decision to jump in. I worked in the computer IT field for many years and subscribed to a lot of forums for the various tools I used. After awhile, you get the feeling that they are simply there for what they are intended for. To give users a medium that allows for the exchange of ideas, tweaking and honing of skills, and sometimes a better way to skin the cat - and not just a place to read about all the bad news. This reflector is no different. As has already been said, there are many on this reflector who are highly competent engineers, techs, operators and just plain good people who think out of the box and are looking for (or at least discussing) ways to improve a device that they themselves spent many hours assembling, testing and operating. Each of us feels a great deal of ownership in these radios even if we didn't design it from scratch. With all that being said, my experience with my K2 was fantastic. I really didn't have any problems with building, testing or operating it (it is a fully loaded K2 with the KPA100 and a KAT100). I did destroy a couple of fragile parts that I man handled (totally my fault) and they were quickly replaced by the fine staff at Elecraft. As has been stated, most of the problems are self inflicted which you would expect since these fine radios are constructed by the buyer. If this happens during your assembly, this reflector and the service staff at Elecraft are great resources in helping resolve any issues. My only regret is that since this is my first radio, I really don't have anything to compare it to. I really like my K2 and feel that it performs very well, and everything I've read here backs that up. My guess is that I'm getting spoiled using it everyday and that when I get a chance to use something else in its price class, I may very well be disappointed ;-) Anyway, I hope this calms your fears. The K2 is a well engineered machine and I think you'll have many great years using it. Besides, if I can build something like this without lighting my house on fire, I'm sure anyone can ;-) Take care and 73, Dave W8FGU -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:elecraft- [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, November 12, 2006 9:14 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K2 Modifications I ordered my K2 before I joined this forum, and now that I did, I am thinking maybe I shouldn't have ordered it. It hasn't been delivered yet. Is everyone having trouble with them as it sounds on this froum? Why is it necessary for all the modifications that are being done to them? What's all this about completely removing RFC10 from the KPA100? Did Elecraft do a bad job of designing this thing? I just ordered the basic unit plus the noise blanker, and was planning on adding the kpa100, and the KSB2 ssb unit later. I had the understanding that these two options were plug in boards, but it sounds like a rebuild to add anything. I have always hesitated to take components out of a circuit board because there is a good chance that damage to the board might occur. Will a new kit that I just ordered four days ago need modifications, and if so, how will I know what modifications I will need to do? Would someone please tell me why I shouldn't put this thing up for sale on Ebay in the unopened box? Thanks Scott N5SM ___ 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] Open wire feeder protection
I've got a W3EDP at our vacataion QTH. The current setup is very temporary; the wires come together at a nice spot on the upstairs patio where I hook up to my KX1. But winter is coming and I want to feed the signals inside. I have a nice steel box and DPDT knife switch to act as ground disconnect. I bought some electric fence spark gaps to provide some lightning protection. I was planning to 1M 1/2W resistors across the gaps as a bleed ... but now I'm thinking that I should use a choke instead? There seem to be lots of differing opions on this :-) 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
Re: [Elecraft] ECN Report
Hi Kevin, How did battery ops go? I listened for you here in FL, whilst building the front panel board of the K2,but 40M appeared too long for stateside. Didn't even hear Tom (N0SS). Macedonia, however, was not too much of a problem. I'll look for you guys again next week. 73s, Pete wd4lst K1 #2194 K2 #5813 (Not yet alive) ___ 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: K2 Modifications
Scott I bought my K2 kit last winter just because I wanted the enjoyment of building it. I have several radios in my shack, so I didn't need another. After I finished building the kit, I had a chance to do an A/B comparision with the K2 and my other rigs. The K2 is head-and-sholders above the other rigs in performance. I figured that the K2 would get put aside and used rarely, but it is now my preferred rig. The reason you see so much rework on the radio is not because there were problems with the design, but because there are hundreds of very competant folks who've had a chance to play with the design and offer improvements. An off the shelf rig like an ICOM doesn't evolve like the K2. Most of the rework is now included in the basic boards. There are a few cuts and jumpers, but very few. The K2 is not for everyone. This is a very challengine kit. There are thousands of parts to install. Even a good assembler will take about 40 hours for the basic kit, and more than that for the accessory boards. If you have doubts about your skills or patience, by all means, sell the kit. If you chose to build this kit, I would suggest getting the rework eliminator kit if you anticipate adding more boards in the future. Regards Rich - Ke1ev From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K2 Modifications Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2006 20:14:14 -0600 I ordered my K2 before I joined this forum, and now that I did, I am thinking maybe I shouldn't have ordered it. It hasn't been delivered yet. Is everyone having trouble with them as it sounds on this froum? Why is it necessary for all the modifications that are being done to them? What's all this about completely removing RFC10 from the KPA100? Did Elecraft do a bad job of designing this thing? I just ordered the basic unit plus the noise blanker, and was planning on adding the kpa100, and the KSB2 ssb unit later. I had the understanding that these two options were plug in boards, but it sounds like a rebuild to add anything. I have always hesitated to take components out of a circuit board because there is a good chance that damage to the board might occur. Will a new kit that I just ordered four days ago need modifications, and if so, how will I know what modifications I will need to do? Would someone please tell me why I shouldn't put this thing up for sale on Ebay in the unopened box? Thanks Scott N5SM ___ ___ 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] Help - XFIL doesn't work
Hello All, After building almost every option that will fit into the K2 and having everything working great the first time, I finished the KPA100 over the weekend (after getting beyond the in-line fuse problem), and in the process, broke something in the K2. The KPA100 checked out fine but when I installed it in the K2, nothing happened - the K2 wouldn't even turn on. Measuring my power supply voltage, it was about 1 volt when plugged into the K2, but the normal 13.6 volts when not plugged in. Opening up the K2, it was evident right away that the problem was that the internal 12V wire between the K2 and the KPA100 was pinched between the KPA100 shield and the side of the K2 and apparently shorting out somewhat (but none of the fuses were blown). Taping the wires where the shield cut through the insulation and moving the wires so the wouldn't be pinched fixed that problem and now everything seemed to be working fine (or so I thought). Then, on CW I tuned in a strong signal, and because there was lots of QRM, hit the XFIL to a narrower filter, and the signal al shifted up a lot in frequency and almost disappeared. It did completely disappear with a still narrower filter. Going to SSB, there were lots of signals, but none of them were intelligible. Checking the XFIL menu setting, they were all still as I had set them, so this isn't a menu problem. I then removed the KPA100 and the XFIL problem was still there. The next step was to see just what the filters were doing using Spectrogram. The broadest CW filter, which I had set to 1.6kHz, was more like 2.6 kHz (which explains the QRM). The other filters, which I had set to 1.0, 0.6 and 0.3 kHz were also about 30% broader and were all centered around 1.4kHz. For these filters, changing the BFO down to a setting of 0 moved them down only to about 750Hz and there was no way to get them down to 600Hz. The LSB filters were similarly messed up, with really messed up filter shapes. I adjusted them as I could. Plugging in my antenna, CW signals were a little more readable, but not much, and SSB was still unintelligible. So, it appears that something broke, possible as a result of the pinched 12 wire (but maybe not). Everything else besides the XFIL filters seems to work. What controls the shape and center frequency of the XTAL filters and where do I start looking for what's broken? Thank you for any help and suggestions that you can offer. Bob W1SRB ___ 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: K2 Modifications
Scott-- Unpack the box and build the kit; you'll be glad you did. Your posting included excellent questions posed by many first-time Elecraft builders, and it's provided an opportunity for the Elecraft community to assure you you've made a wise purchase. I was the perfect example of a novice kit builder when my K2 arrived last year. After enjoying construction of the rig and several options, I've never been happier with a rig. If I buy a second rig it's going to be another K2/100. I've had no trouble with my rig, and no modifications have been necessary. I was concerned when the recent KPA100 modification was announced. However, I learned it isn't necessary for most K2/100's, only for those who've experienced particular symptoms. That speaks volumes for Elecraft support--they've responded to user needs; some need the mod, others don't. Furthermore, one of the guys responsible for the mod responded to my query and convinced me I don't need it--yet another example of Elecraft reflector support. Sometimes reading the reflector is like opening a medical textbook and becoming convinced you have every disease known to man; everything that _can_ happen to an Elecraft rig shows up on the reflector. You expressed concern over the rework necessary when installing options. With the full K2 construction under your belt, the one or two components that typically need taken out and the addition of a connector on the K2 RF board are easy. Option installation isn't so much a re-work as it is just another construction step of the basic rig. It's a lot simpler to do than it may appear in the manual. Read and re-read the manual. That way no aspect of construction will surprise you and you'll be aware of any potentially difficult portions of construction. It'll usually turn out that what appears daunting in the manual turns out to be no problem at all. With Elecraft technical staff and reflector experts just an e-mail away, you have a tremendous support staff available both before and after you open the box. Just follow the instructions, don't work while tired, and perform all tests. You'll end up with a top-of-the-line rig. 73, John, N7ON K2/100 #5023 + noise blanker, SSB module, 160m module + more to come P.S. I'm not technically inclined, but I took lots of photographs during construction. Let me know if you need to see anything. ___ 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] ECN Report
Hi Folks: I had a 'biological emergency' which required me to be away from the shack for the first 15 minutes of the ECN 40M net. By the time I did manage to get into the shack... all was deathly quiet! I called ECN ? several times and only (eventually) got a reply from Mike, W3MC, who couldn't copy we well enough to exchange ANY usable info. Sorry I wimped out on y'all and Kevin. Maybe next weekend mill be better. Tom N0SS At 09:31 AM 11/13/2006, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Kevin, How did battery ops go? I listened for you here in FL, whilst building the front panel board of the K2,but 40M appeared too long for stateside. Didn't even hear Tom (N0SS). Macedonia, however, was not too much of a problem. I'll look for you guys again next week. 73s, Pete wd4lst K1 #2194 K2 #5813 (Not yet alive) ___ 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] K2 Microphone
Thanks to those who replied directly about the MH2. I took the mic apart and couldn't see anything wrong so rechecked the sideband balance. Today I'm getting good reports with the MH2. 73, Dave NE5DL ___ 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] RF textbook recommendations wanted
Hi all, I'm an EE but with little RF design background - I've spent most of my career so far doing digital design software development. So while I remember how to bias a transistor you probably don't want me to design a radio for you just yet! :-) With that in mind, I'd love recommendations for texts on RF design that start where your basic electrical engineering education leaves off. One recommendation so far is Experimental Methods in RF Design which I've been told is not engineering level (perfectly fine by me) but a good starting point. Any classics out there you'd recommend? Thanks! Mike ab3ap ___ 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] RF textbook recommendations wanted
Experimental Methods in RF Design is an excellent starting place. The book is very well done. Doug -- KØDXV Mike Markowski wrote: Hi all, I'm an EE but with little RF design background - I've spent most of my career so far doing digital design software development. So while I remember how to bias a transistor you probably don't want me to design a radio for you just yet! :-) With that in mind, I'd love recommendations for texts on RF design that start where your basic electrical engineering education leaves off. One recommendation so far is Experimental Methods in RF Design which I've been told is not engineering level (perfectly fine by me) but a good starting point. Any classics out there you'd recommend? Thanks! Mike ab3ap ___ 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] Re: RF textbook recommendations wanted
Mike, You might take a look at The Electronics of Radio, written by Prof. David Rutledge of Caltech. It's a 400-page lab coursebook for their EE-20 class by the same name, available in hardcover from Amazon. It uses the NorCal 40A transceiver (one of my earlier designs, still available as a kit from Wilderness Radio) as a starting point for in-depth analysis of everything from crystal filters to mixers to audio amplifiers -- all with an emphasis on RF design. There's plenty of college-level math and physics, since EE-20 is (I believe) a third-year course. But many non-engineers have also enjoyed reading it. It's a great introduction to all aspect of transceiver design, save DSP and speech modulation/demodulation, both of which are well-represented in EMRFD. Another must-have for pragmatic design (which definitely applies to RF) is Solid State Design for the Radio Amateur, a classic by Hayward and DeMaw. This is available from Elecraft (as is EMRFM, I believe). 73, Wayne N6KR On Nov 13, 2006, at 9:33 AM, Mike Markowski wrote: Hi all, I'm an EE but with little RF design background - I've spent most of my career so far doing digital design software development. So while I remember how to bias a transistor you probably don't want me to design a radio for you just yet! :-) With that in mind, I'd love recommendations for texts on RF design... --- 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] RS 232 problem
I believe someone sent me email today regarding a problem I had with failure of the RS232 in my KPA100 some time ago. I inadvertently deleted the email before getting a return address or name. For that person: The problem I had turned out to be three of the tiny RF chokes plus the MAX chip were destroyed. I have no idea what happened -- the K2 had been connected to my computer through the RS232 cable for some time, and was use only intermittently. There came a time when I tried to use software control of the K2, only to find that it no longer worked. I must assume that there was some transient (perhaps a nearby lightning strike???) that caused enough voltage difference in the cable to do that kind of damage. Nothing was burnt that could be seen, but the voltages on the MAX1406 were clearly not what they should have been, and ultimately the chokes in both the TX and RX lines were found to be open. Hope this helps! If it doesn't answer your question, please return the email 73, Van W1WCG K2 #2634/5510 KX1 #306 ___ 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:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
Hi Guys, I am reading a book called I WOZ the biog of one of the founders of Apple Computers. It's a great read!. He mentions having a Ham licence in his 6th grade (not sure how old that would make him). Seemingly he read a book called SOS at midnight which got him hooked and then he built a Hallicrafters RX and TX. He even learned the code. I wonder if he is still active on the bands. He says a lot of nice things about ham radio in the book. Curiously yours, Steve ___ 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] Text on design
Hi Doug, When I was a younger old man, Ulrich Rhode (Rhode and Schwartz Instruments) and a collaborator wrote Communications Receivers: DPS, Software Radios, and Design, 3rd Edition. I would recommend this book most highly for an EE. It gets highly technical in spots. Good luck, Bill NA7Y ___ 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] Re: RF textbook recommendations wanted
On 11/13/06, wayne burdick [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Another must-have for pragmatic design (which definitely applies to RF) is Solid State Design for the Radio Amateur, a classic by Hayward and DeMaw. This is available from Elecraft (as is EMRFM, I believe). Unfortunately _Sold State Design for the Radio Amateur_ is out of print - look for it at hamfests, partly because it was getting fairly dated in particulars, so _Experimental Methods_ grow out of being an update I think. Maybe Wayne had _Introduction to Radio Frequency Design_ by Wes Hayward (red with wireframe plot on cover) in mind. If Mike is not afraid of calculus then _The Electronics of Radio_ is likely very useful. Both _The Electronics of Radio_ and _Introduction to Radio Frequency Design_ have more math content than your typical ARRL publication, so some hams find them not as accessible. -Michael, VE3TIX ___ 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] test
test ___ 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] Radio Design
Hi Mike, When I was a younger old man, Ulrich Rhode (Rhode and Schwartz Instruments) and a collaborator wrote Communications Receivers: DPS, Software Radios, and Design, 3rd Edition. I would recommend this book most highly for an EE. It gets highly technical in spots. Good luck, Bill NA7Y ___ 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] Open wire feeder protection
Chris, K6DBG wrote: But winter is coming and I want to feed the signals inside. I have a nice steel box and DPDT knife switch to act as ground disconnect. I bought some electric fence spark gaps to provide some lightning protection. I was planning to 1M 1/2W resistors across the gaps as a bleed ... but now I'm thinking that I should use a choke instead? There seem to be lots of differing opions on this :-) --- Chris, If you do use chokes, before installing them check that neither has a series resonance at or close to any band on which you operate, if they do you will in most cases lose power on both Tx and Rx . You can make this check with a grid dip oscillator or an antenna analyzer. As seen by the antenna feeder they should be transparent, and your antenna tuner should not have to find another match after the chokes are installed. In the days when tube PAs used pi networks with the DC fed via a choke at the tube end of the network, the choke was often wound in sections to avoid this series resonance problem, and it is always a good idea to check any choke for series resonances before using it in any circuit. 73, 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
RE: [Elecraft] OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
I found two callsigns: WA6BND and WV6VLY. These were mentioned on various Web sites as having once belonged to Woz. I couldn't find either one in the FCC or QRZ databases, nor could I find an expired license for Woz in the FCC database. You might try writing through www.woz.org. It would be an interesting question for them to address at the site. Craig -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Stephen Sent: Monday, November 13, 2006 1:14 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign Hi Guys, I am reading a book called I WOZ the biog of one of the founders of Apple Computers. It's a great read!. He mentions having a Ham licence in his 6th grade (not sure how old that would make him). Seemingly he read a book called SOS at midnight which got him hooked and then he built a Hallicrafters RX and TX. He even learned the code. I wonder if he is still active on the bands. He says a lot of nice things about ham radio in the book. Curiously yours, Steve ___ 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] OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
On Nov 13, 2006, at 11:14 AM, Stephen wrote: Hi Guys, I am reading a book called I WOZ the biog of one of the founders of Apple Computers. It's a great read!. He mentions having a Ham licence in his 6th grade (not sure how old that would make him). Seemingly he read a book called SOS at midnight which got him hooked and then he built a Hallicrafters RX and TX. He even learned the code. I wonder if he is still active on the bands. He says a lot of nice things about ham radio in the book. There is a Stephen Wozniak listed in the FCC database (KB0IID), but it is not the same person. Perhaps he let his license lapse. According to wikipedia, Woz was born in 1950, making him 56 years old. I don't recall Hallicrafters ever selling kits. 73 - Bob, N7XY ___ 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:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
I have been trying to find that answer myself for a great while. Woz is a hard man to tie down it seems, the ARRL has been trying since 2001 to get a story out of him about his early Ham Radio Experiences. -- John N5BSD www.n5bsd.com Grid:EM12lr From: Stephen [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2006 19:14:20 - To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign Hi Guys, I am reading a book called I WOZ the biog of one of the founders of Apple Computers. It's a great read!. He mentions having a Ham licence in his 6th grade (not sure how old that would make him). Seemingly he read a book called SOS at midnight which got him hooked and then he built a Hallicrafters RX and TX. He even learned the code. I wonder if he is still active on the bands. He says a lot of nice things about ham radio in the book. Curiously yours, Steve ___ 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:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
I don't recall Hallicrafters ever selling kits. SX140 and HT40 were available as Halli-kits in the late 1960s. Lyle KK7P ___ 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 Modifications
Scott, I have recently built the basic K2, noise blanker, antenna tuner, DSP and SSB unit. All worked the first time. I am still impressed by the design of the kit, absolutely wonderful. There were some modifications necessary when I put in the SSB unit. On the other hand, the mods were very easy. It is still not perfect but which rig is? Anyway, the modification necessary to bring the rig to pretty basic specs (bring a good ssb signal) should not have been necessary. That's the only thing that bothers me about the K2. I have no experience with the 100W PAyet. Is it good value for money, well that depends. If I buy the 100W kit, the total cost of the complete K2/100 is more than twice the cost of a Yeasu FT-857D. (Why I bought the K2 in the first place? Got it from e-bay unbuilt for a good price) Am I satisfied with the K2: CW definitely!! SSB: so-so. The RX is nice. It gave me much pleasure to build it. It gave the same good feeling as building my Heathkit HW-8 31 yrs ago. So, if I were you: build it, don't sell it. 73, Arie PA3A -Oorspronkelijk bericht- Van: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Namens [EMAIL PROTECTED] Verzonden: maandag 13 november 2006 3:14 Aan: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Onderwerp: [Elecraft] K2 Modifications I ordered my K2 before I joined this forum, and now that I did, I am thinking maybe I shouldn't have ordered it. It hasn't been delivered yet. Is everyone having trouble with them as it sounds on this froum? Why is it necessary for all the modifications that are being done to them? What's all this about completely removing RFC10 from the KPA100? Did Elecraft do a bad job of designing this thing? I just ordered the basic unit plus the noise blanker, and was planning on adding the kpa100, and the KSB2 ssb unit later. I had the understanding that these two options were plug in boards, but it sounds like a rebuild to add anything. I have always hesitated to take components out of a circuit board because there is a good chance that damage to the board might occur. Will a new kit that I just ordered four days ago need modifications, and if so, how will I know what modifications I will need to do? Would someone please tell me why I shouldn't put this thing up for sale on Ebay in the unopened box? Thanks Scott N5SM ___ 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] Re: OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
John [N5BSD] wrote: I have been trying to find that answer myself for a great while. Woz is a hard man to tie down... But, as it turns out, easy to dunk. I saw the great Woz being summarily soaked at the dunk-the-nerds booth at the Maker Fair in San Mateo last summer. I had a few questions for him, but in deference to his soggy state I tipped my hat, then went on to the other exhibits. If I see him again I'll ask him for his call. 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
Re: [Elecraft] OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
I Googled: Steve Wozniak ham radio callsign and found this: http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/13.07/solar.html It says his call is WA6BND. However, QRZ.com says that call is not currently assigned, so either that's the wrong call or he let it lapse. 73, Jeff WB5GWB/AE Long Island, NY ___ 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] Re: OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
Google is our friend. Woz held the call WA6BND, since lapsed and his novice call was WV6VLY. Reference: http://users.tellurian.net/gjurrens/famous_hams.html Joe N9JR - Original Message From: wayne burdick [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: John [N5BSD] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, November 13, 2006 2:18:00 PM Subject: [Elecraft] Re: OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign John [N5BSD] wrote: I have been trying to find that answer myself for a great while. Woz is a hard man to tie down... But, as it turns out, easy to dunk. I saw the great Woz being summarily soaked at the dunk-the-nerds booth at the Maker Fair in San Mateo last summer. I had a few questions for him, but in deference to his soggy state I tipped my hat, then went on to the other exhibits. If I see him again I'll ask him for his call. 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
[Elecraft] k2/100 fs
K2 for sale with both qrp top and kpa100 with all options included except microphone and KAF cw filter has the DSP instead. Kat100 tuner also included, has all manuals power cords and computer cable assemblys. Mint condition. Asking $1200 shipping included. WT5Y john cooper ___ 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] New K2 underway - Any mods to consider?
My new K2 is well underway - Any mods that I should consider before getting too far in? I'm ok with 2.4khz ssb bandwidth. To me, that's perfect. I will add the ssb adapter and eventually the KPA100. tnx es 73, Doug -- KØDXV ___ 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 Modifications
Hi Scott, I think 90% of what are reading is guys who are very enthusiastic about their K2's and guys who like to fiddle around with things. After all if you build the rig yourself you have a certain comfort level about going inside and poking around (which, at least as far as I'm concerned, I can't say about my Yeasu and Icom rigs). When this list started it was considered an innovation to be able to sit at home and build a kit whith the knowledge and comfort that if anything should go wrong (free) help was just an e-mail away. I used it when I had a question and the guys are very knowledgable about the Elecraft equipment and always willing to help. You have ordered a very well designed rig with well thought out instructions, which underwent significant modifications around the time serial number 3,000 was produced. As someone else pointed out, over 5,000 of these have been built by almost that many hams. About the only real problem I had when building the rig was that I was sorry when it finished. Enjoy building and operating your K2 and let us know how it goes. Tom, WB2QDG K2 1103 -- Original message -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I ordered my K2 before I joined this forum, and now that I did, I am thinking maybe I shouldn't have ordered it. It hasn't been delivered yet. Is everyone having trouble with them as it sounds on this froum? Why is it necessary for all the modifications that are being done to them? What's all this about completely removing RFC10 from the KPA100? Did Elecraft do a bad job of designing this thing? I just ordered the basic unit plus the noise blanker, and was planning on adding the kpa100, and the KSB2 ssb unit later. I had the understanding that these two options were plug in boards, but it sounds like a rebuild to add anything. I have always hesitated to take components out of a circuit board because there is a good chance that damage to the board might occur. Will a new kit that I just ordered four days ago need modifications, and if so, how will I know what modifications I will need to do? Would someone please tell me why I shouldn't put this thing up for sale on Ebay in the unopened box? Thanks Scott N5SM ___ 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] Re: RF textbook recommendations wanted
Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2006 14:23:27 -0500 From: michael taylor [EMAIL PROTECTED] Unfortunately _Sold State Design for the Radio Amateur_ is out of print - look for it at hamfests, partly because it was getting fairly dated in particulars, so _Experimental Methods_ grow out of being an update I think. Thanks for the thread- I'm just embarking on a little project (which will take a while, I'm sure), and you've all verified that at least my library is sufficient. And, in fact, I find I have two copies of _Solid State Design..._, one of which is in very good shape, the only indication of its age is slight browning of the edges. It's labeled $7.00, and the one I see on ABE is listed at $211.07. Somewhere between those two figures is a reasonable price, so make me an offer, if you're interested. 73, doug ___ 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 Upgrade to RevD
Hi all: This afternoon I received the KPA100UPKT package in the mail to upgrade my KPA100 to the latest version, Rev D. MY KPA100 is a fairly recent one so some of the upgrade steps did not apply. Keep in mind that this Upgrade package includes all changes since the KPA100 was introduced. First... There are a couple of typos that have not yet been picked up in the errata sheet. (Elecraft has been notified of these typos.) The Parts List indicates that R4 and R33 are 1/2 watt resistors, the text calls them 1/4 watt resistors, and that is what was provided. On page 6 of the instructions, the 4th step states Remove capacitor C16... That should read Remove capacitor C64... The upgrade went quickly, but I really have become spoiled by having the Hakko 808 desoldering tool. Removal of components was painless and left clean through holes. I don't have any quantitative data on performance changes, but it seems more stable than before when using the KAT100 tuner. Also, the output on the higher bands (12 and 10 meters) in improved. I can now get 110-120 watts output with R26 properly adjusted. Before I could only get ~100 watts out. 73, Ken Wagner K3IU Portsmouth, RI K2/100 #5413 (my 10th) ___ 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] Help - XFIL doesn't work
Keith, I did add the Rework Eliminators when I built the K2, and it made adding all of the internal options a breeze (KDSP2, KNB2, K160RX, KSB2 and now the KPA100) - I highly recommend them when building a K2. The problem I encountered with the KPA100 was my own inattentiveness when installing the KPA100 into the K2 and not watching where the 12V power wire from the KPA100 was (it just plugs into the K2 - nothing related to the REs). Bob -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Darwin, Keith Sent: Monday, November 13, 2006 2:33 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Help - XFIL doesn't work I wonder, once this gets figured out, if we'll find that having the Rework Eliminators (so as to avoid pulling the K2 board out once it is done) would have avoided the problem ... Just thinking. Enjoy it as I'm not always known to do it :-) - Keith N1AS - -Original Message- From: Solosko, Robert B (Bob) Sent: Monday, November 13, 2006 10:43 AM ... I finished the KPA100 over the weekend ... and in the process, broke something in the 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 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] Re: RF textbook recommendations wanted
Most EE Schools went way off the deepend, giving and creating courses in Digital design. I would think a course in Fourier Transforms, S-plane, and all that would be a good adjunct. Most IC designers of late - are just learning what R/L/C parasitics can do to a IC design (physical silicon layout). Many good EE schools had some mix of microwave electronics, which dumps one solidly into RF, although at a higher freq. My SUNYAB EE school, always had courses listed for antenna design, and RF design, but in the 5 years I attended - they never offered the courses. I always thought that RF designers were sort of seat of the pants guys gals - who learned all these RF design tricks, somehow on the job. I knew a designer, who was also versed in tube technology. Sounds odd I know - but his employer created and supported AWACS systems - which have vacuum components. He told me in the early 90's - they only had 6 designers who could design in that stuff. He also worked in Galium Arsenide - so he was immersed in both ends. If you find a great RF design book, which deals with Transceivers and Radios - I too would be interested in these texts. I missed all of that in my EE education too. Fred N3CSY Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited ___ 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] KSB2 no audio output
Hi, My SSB module worked fine before. I add my kpa100 and every test went well. I test my kat100 and every test went well until I did the last test with the dummy load. Now my Mic is sending a tone. No more voice. But the power still there. Is any body had this probleme? Best regard and best 73's Sylvain Ve2SSL Sylvain St-Louis ___ 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 Upgrade
What are the specific incremental upgrade changes to go from C to D? My amp is revision C so if I wanted to make only those changes, what needs to change to make it a D? The amp runs just fine as built 73 Elliott WA6TLA ___ 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] KSB2 no audio output
Are you still in SSB mode or perhaps did the MODE button get bumped to put you in CW mode?? Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Hi, My SSB module worked fine before. I add my kpa100 and every test went well. I test my kat100 and every test went well until I did the last test with the dummy load. Now my Mic is sending a tone. No more voice. But the power still there. Is any body had this probleme? Best regard and best 73's Sylvain Ve2SSL ___ 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] RS 232 problem
Frank, You left out an important piece of information. Was the K2 plugged into an antenna at the same time you had it on the computer and lost the MAX chip and the components? RS232 used to cause a lot of modem failures, because those chips make a great fuse for lightning surges that would come down the phone lines, if the modem was left connected during a storm! That is the most likely cause of the demise you had. Even without RS 232 or other Computer interfaces to a rig, hams should unplug their antennas from the rigs when not on the air! Stuart K5KVH ___ 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 Upgrade
Hi Elliot: I would recommend that you download the instructions from the Elecraft website and review them. Also, if your amp runs fine as built, then you perhaps you might not want to upgrade to Rev D. 73, Ken K3IU -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Elliott Lawrence Sent: Monday, November 13, 2006 6:45 PM To: Elecraft List Subject: [Elecraft] KPA100 Upgrade What are the specific incremental upgrade changes to go from C to D? My amp is revision C so if I wanted to make only those changes, what needs to change to make it a D? The amp runs just fine as built 73 Elliott WA6TLA ___ 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 Upgrade
Go to the Elecraft web site (www.elecraft.com) and, under Manuals and Downloads get KPA100UPKT.PDF It'll show you exactly what changed. As Wayne observed in an earlier post here, it's not needed if your KPA100 is working FB. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- What are the specific incremental upgrade changes to go from C to D? My amp is revision C so if I wanted to make only those changes, what needs to change to make it a D? The amp runs just fine as built 73 Elliott WA6TLA ___ 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] KDSP2 FS or Trade
The KDSP2 has been sold. - Original Message - From: Brent Sutphin [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Sunday, November 12, 2006 10:10 PM Subject: [Elecraft] KDSP2 FS or Trade I have a KDSP2 that I built last spring. It is currently installed in my K2 and works fine. I work mostly CW. After having both the KDSP2 and the KAF2 in my first K2, I would rather have the KAF2 for my operation. I would like to sell the KDSP2 for $210 or trade it for a KAF2 plus the difference in kit prices ( $150 ). If interested in buying or a trade please contact me off list. Thanks Brent WB4X ___ 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] RS 232 problem
Stuart, K5KVH, reminds me that I left out an important point concerning my RS 232 problem -- i.e. was it connected to an antenna as well as the computer when the failure occurred? Yes, it was connectied to an antenna, Stuart -- the antenna is a Butternet vertical on the roof with a couple of long radials. Certainly a target for lightning nearby! I've never (to my knowledge) had a direct hit, but I know that nearby strikes can induce high voltages and currents in any nearby conductor. 73, Van W1WCG Frank, You left out an important piece of information. Was the K2 plugged into an antenna at the same time you had it on the computer and lost the MAX chip and the components? RS232 used to cause a lot of modem failures, because those chips make a great fuse for lightning surges that would come down the phone lines, if the modem was left connected during a storm! That is the most likely cause of the demise you had. Even without RS 232 or other Computer interfaces to a rig, hams should unplug their antennas from the rigs when not on the air! Stuart K5KVH ___ 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] Open wire feeder protection
Ken, I have to respectfully disagree that properly sized resistors would mess up the tuning of the antenna and feeders. Our radio club has operated up to 5 transmitters at Field Days, with 100,000 ohm, 2 watt carbon resistors on the 450 ohm feeders, one from each side to a ground rod to bleed off wind static, and storm static buidup, if a thunderstorm passes by. It has, the bleed offs worked, and we have not lost a rig. The tuning with or without the resistors is the same on the tuners, as long as the impedance is 10 to 100 times that on the feeder. We go for the higher value, but it bleeds the static before it gets to arc over potentials. The rigs we operated at 100 watts output max with no problems with the resistors as described. Carbon rather than wire wound prevents resonance problems. Stuart K5KVH ___ 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 Modifications
Scott, Not to worry - Your recently ordered K2 contains all the latest modifications - and if ordered after the 2nd week of September, a KPA100 kit has the latest update included too. All you need to do is follow the instructions in the manual(s). Elecraft has incorporated all the desirable changes that deal with normal operation of the K2 in the basic design - only those with older K2s have to consider whether they wish to add the upgrades or not. As for the fuss about the KPA100 - it was found that a few folks had trouble with an oscillation when 40 meters was selected, but this condition only occurred for some folks and only occurred when the KAT100 was being used as well. In any case, if you have not yet received your kits, the new design is included. One thing that Elecraft has done over the life of the K2 (and other kits) is to ship the new units with the changes included, and also to offer an upgrade kit to those with older kits so that they may be upgraded to the latest level. I have K2 SN 00020 from the initial K2 Field Test, and I have kept it up to date with all the revisions. I will put my SN 00020 up against any new K2 and would expect it to perform just as well as the new ones - it is electrically compatible and I can also say that despite all the upgrades, it does not look 'messy' by any means. That speaks of quality in the initial design as well as added quality in the subsequent mods. Yes, there are other mods that are not included in the current K2 design. I would point to the N0SS tuning indicator and to my K2 Fixed Audio Output. These add operating enhancements to the K2 that can be added if desired, but they are not for everyone. If you have special needs, then you may want to consider some of these mods, but some change the operation of the K2 in ways that may not be applicable for most operators. A good example of a mod which changes the operation of the K2 is the CW PTT mod which I authored - it defeats the QSK operation of the K2, but is a great help to those who need to prevent RF output until something else happens, such as the VHF folks who run a sequencer to transfer pre-amps and other devices before RF can be applied to the transmit chain. Choose from these mods if you have needs that match the purpose of the mod - they are not for everyone. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I ordered my K2 before I joined this forum, and now that I did, I am thinking maybe I shouldn't have ordered it=2E It hasn't been delivered yet=2E=20 Is everyone having trouble with them as it sounds on this froum=3F Why is it necessary for all the modifications that are being done to them=3F Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 What's all this about completely removing RFC10 from the KPA100=3F Did Elecraft do a bad job of designing this thing=3F . snip ... Will a new kit that I just ordered four days ago need modifications, and if so, how will I know what modifications I will need to do=3F ___ 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] ECN Report
Hi folks, Spoke with Kevin today. Looks like he will be without power for at least another day, but Sam and Kevin are staying warm and dry and well fed. As soon as power returns he will post the latest ECN report. 73, Karl N7NLU ___ 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] Alignment of VCO - Problem
David, First thing is to verify the probe. Did the probe test give a correct reading of 4 MHz when it was checked in the 3rd step on page 46 of the manual? Note that this only checks the operation of the probe and has nothing to do with proper setting of the 4 MHz reference oscillator. If your probe did NOT read the 4 MHz oscillator, look for the problem with your probe - is it connected properly, the shield should be closest to the left side panel when plugged in. If your probe DID do the 4 MHz test OK, then let us know and we may be able to help find the reason your VCO is not functioning properly. Tell us what test equipment you have available, and if you do not have an oscilloscope or other means of reading RF Voltages, please build the RF Probe - parts are provided with the K2 kit, see appendix E of the manual for the schematic. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Hi, I am at the stage in building my K2 on page 60 in the VCO test. Up to this stage all was well. Now, with the probe _definitely_ connected to TP1. I get a reading of all zeros. Does anybody know the trouble-shooting procedure? Thanks. (I didn't do the calibration of C22, due to not having a frequency counter, but the reading was withing range) -- David Dawson ___ 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] PA failure
Chris, Check T4 very carefully - does it have the correct number of turns? Is the correct winding inserted into the correct holes? Are the links present and soldered into the correct holes? Your bias voltage is a bit high - check to be certain Q11 and Q13 have the expected DC voltages (see the DC Voltage chart in Appendix E of the manual). Examine all components in the base of Q7 and Q8 (see the schematic to identify all the components) and verify that they are correct. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Dear group! We have a serious problem with our 10watt PA of my K2.2 weeks ago the 10w PA suddenly didn´t work any more.A friend helped me to fix the problem(we replaced the PA transistors 3 times), but now we need your help.The PA needs far too much current and the maximum power output on all bands is 2 watt.Everything seems to be okay, but the current of the bias of Q7/Q8 is 0.656V instead of 0.600. The PA transistors and the diodes of the low pass filter are okay too.Can you please help? vy73, Chris-OE5CSP ___ 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] K2 External T-R Relay Driver Kit now available... finally!
Hi Folks: Several years ago, using an Elecraft design, I developed a PC board which would allow K2 owners to key an external T-R relay for the purposes of controlling an external QRO RF Amp, or other external devices. Over the years that design has morphed a bit into a more robust device, using MOSFETs, which now has the ability to key up to +150VDC and several amps of current (if required). Fortunately, few, if any, T-R relays require more than a couple hundred mA of current, BUT several of the Heathkit amps do present +120 VDC as the coil voltage on their T-R relays. I am now offering a kit of parts, including etched, drilled and tinned PC board, and all components, for this device. You can download the assembly and installation instructions from: http://www.n0ss.net/k2_t-r_rly_drvr_v2r0.pdf Cost of the kit is $16 (US) and $17 (DX), postpaid to your mailbox. This a proven design. PLEASE NOTE: If you already have a KPA100 100W amp or a K60XV 60-meter adapter installed in your K2, you DO NOT need this kit since both of the above devices already provide the ability to key an external T-R relay. Additionally, most HF amps which use open-frame T-R relays will NOT be able to operate at QSK (full break-in) relay switching speeds, so you will NOT be able to operate QSK with these amps. However, you can increase the T-R delay length (in MENU) to eliminate most of the 'thrashing' of the relay during keying, so the amount of 'hot switching' of the relay will be reduced significantly. If you are interested, please contact me directly. 73 and thanks for your interest in this kit. 73, Tom HammondN0SS ___ 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] Help - XFIL doesn't work
Robert, Did the base K2 receive OK before you added the KPA100? - note that the KPA100 has nothing to do with the base K2 receive, but I would like to know if it worked fine at one time in the past. The most likely thing that would cause the filter settings to fail is a failure of the BFO or a failure in the IF filter itself. My vote is on the BFO - go back to page 62 of your manual and re-do the BFO range test. If that is OK, then try to re-do the filter alignment using Spectrogram. Should you notice strange results with the filter alignment, then check all the components in the lower center portion of the schematic sheet 2 of 4 for proper soldering and proper component placement. The most probable cause of failure is a bad solder connection. First thing is to check the soldering, then re-check the soldering. When you have completed that, check the soldering! Often another pair of eyes will see something that you have overlooked numerous times - if you can find someone else to review your work, that may prove revealing. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Then, on CW I tuned in a strong signal, and because there was lots of QRM, hit the XFIL to a narrower filter, and the signal al shifted up a lot in frequency and almost disappeared. It did completely disappear with a still narrower filter. Going to SSB, there were lots of signals, but none of them were intelligible. Checking the XFIL menu setting, they were all still as I had set them, so this isn't a menu problem. I then removed the KPA100 and the XFIL problem was still there. The next step was to see just what the filters were doing using Spectrogram. The broadest CW filter, which I had set to 1.6kHz, was more like 2.6 kHz (which explains the QRM). The other filters, which I had set to 1.0, 0.6 and 0.3 kHz were also about 30% broader and were all centered around 1.4kHz. For these filters, changing the BFO down to a setting of 0 moved them down only to about 750Hz and there was no way to get them down to 600Hz. The LSB filters were similarly messed up, with really messed up filter shapes. I adjusted them as I could. Plugging in my antenna, CW signals were a little more readable, but not much, and SSB was still unintelligible. ___ 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 Modifications
Scott - The K2 is a great kit, a very nice transceiver. I built K2 # 54xx in spring 06. It went pretty much without a hitch, and at every build stage - it came thru fine and all specs were right. Great feeling. One fact you might want to consider - Elecraft Inc. really doesn't have a Service Department per se. They go to great lengths to discourage anyone from sending a K2 back to them, for service or repairs. Their philosophy is pretty much self help, email help, or great help from the experts on the elecraft BB. When I finished mine - I thought for a time, that after I finished it - I would send it back to Elecraft for a professional factory alignment and checkout. NO they said. I think most Elecraft K1 and K2 builder/owners are tinkerers at heart, as many, if not most hams are. So it works for them. I also have a new IC-706MKIIG Icom transceiver. I don't think a typical owner ham would want to get to far into that rig and fix it themselves. Not unless they have a major service bench in their home. Fortunately they have several major U.S. service centers - and a 1 year buyer warranty. A current 706 has probably a couple hundreds or more SMD surface micro devices soldered almost everywhere. The K2, on the contrary, is built very modular and very logical - everything in its place. With almost NO WIRING cables inside - it all just flows board to board, device to device. A great design from the start. The K2 also is not a do everything rig (HF, VHF, UHF, etc.) ... and if you build it, your K2 will become very familiar to you ... and you will know it inside and out! A very satisfying feeling for a ham. Good Luck Fred N3CSY Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.mail.yahoo.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 Upgrade
Elliot, The KPA100 problems that were solved with the upgrade typically involved an oscillation on 40 meters that might occur if the KAT100 was also in-line. If your KPA100 is working fine, you should not have to do the upgrade. OTOH, if you do want to add the change just to upgrade your KPA100, the kit and instructions are now on the Elecraft website. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- What are the specific incremental upgrade changes to go from C to D? My amp is revision C so if I wanted to make only those changes, what needs to change to make it a D? The amp runs just fine as built ___ 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:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign
WA6BND according to the Famous Hams website: http://users.tellurian.net/gjurrens/famous_hams.html 73 de Brian W3BW -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of John [N5BSD] Sent: Monday, November 13, 2006 14:47 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign I have been trying to find that answer myself for a great while. Woz is a hard man to tie down it seems, the ARRL has been trying since 2001 to get a story out of him about his early Ham Radio Experiences. -- John N5BSD www.n5bsd.com Grid:EM12lr From: Stephen [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2006 19:14:20 - To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] OT:What was/is Steve Wozniacs Callsign Hi Guys, I am reading a book called I WOZ the biog of one of the founders of Apple Computers. It's a great read!. He mentions having a Ham licence in his 6th grade (not sure how old that would make him). Seemingly he read a book called SOS at midnight which got him hooked and then he built a Hallicrafters RX and TX. He even learned the code. I wonder if he is still active on the bands. He says a lot of nice things about ham radio in the book. Curiously yours, Steve ___ 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] K2 assembly question
Actually 2 questions: 1. I made the first power up and everything went just like the manual. However, the preamp is marked on. The manual doesn't say which way it should be and I thought I'd check before I got too much farther. 2. I'm confused about soldering the RF probe. I can't seem to find a good way to position and solder the RG174 cable ends to the banana plugs. There's just a slight dimple at the end of the plugs and I can't figure a good mechanical way to connect them before soldering. Thanks for any help! K2 #5757 (in build process) KX1 #1517 (4 bander) ___ 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] A little OT...odd noises on 40M
For the last couple of nights, at about 7022 kHz there is a most annoying noise that appears not to be random. If this is a digital mode, what on earth is it? It's about 3 kHz wide and has a high and low register, both are gravelly and seem to be fairly broad spectrum audio. God, it's annoying! As a newbie, I don't know for sure the sounds of various digital modes. BTW, I now have CocoaModem. Where can I find specific information to get my K2 into digital mode. I find CocoaModem rather undecipherable...no manual to it's use to be found. My apologies if this is a repeat of earlier threads. John AB8O ___ 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] A little OT...odd noises on 40M
Could this be the recent Chinese jamming signal? Stuart K5KVH ___ 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] Differences between disc ceramic and blue plastic caps?
I understood the markings. I just had misgivings about the equivalence of the plastic blue caps and the disc ceramic NPO types that I am more familiar with. I do find the near microscopic print on these little caps to be quite a challenge - even with a large magnifying glass. I can hardly imagine what lies ahead with SMD's - which will surely replace all these through-the-hole type components. Presumably my new SMD soldering station will include a microscope along with the robotic articulated digits to manipulate the components. 73, Doug -- KØDXV Don Wilhelm wrote: Doug, Component markings have changed a lot over the years. I would suggest that you refer to the information in the ARRL Handbook on component markings for an update on the various markings that are in current (and older) use. Yes, a capacitor marked '470' is a 47 pf capacitor. The little blue (or yellow) ones will do just fine. The old disc ceramics with the black mark on the top are NPO type, which has the same thermal characteristics as the 'C0G' type. It is not good practice to try to identify a component by its color - that could change at the whim of the manufacturer, learning the current markings for components is the only way I know to be certain about the designations. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I'm went looking for a 47pf cap for C73. Naturally, (probably because I'm an old-timer, ya know - kits from Knight-Kit, Johnson, WRL, Ameco, not to mention the Benton Harbor stuff) I was looking for a disc ceramic cap marked 47 with a black mark on the top. Not finding any, I looked through the parts list for the rf board where it indicated in might also be marked 470 and be one of those little blue plastic caps. Just so I'm sure before I solder these puppies in, C73, C20, C24, and C203 are OK as little blue plastic caps marked 470, correct? ___ 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] K2 assembly question
Everybody needs one of these little dodads with the two alligator clips mounted on ball joints. Radio Shack used to have them. I have two and use them constantly. That's how I did my probes. I also use it to hold a string of solder. This way, I can hold the board and iron to the solder and anchor one or two pins of a multi-pin device. Better than a third arm. 73, Doug -- K0DXV Soaring Eagles wrote: Actually 2 questions: 1. I made the first power up and everything went just like the manual. However, the preamp is marked on. The manual doesn't say which way it should be and I thought I'd check before I got too much farther. 2. I'm confused about soldering the RF probe. I can't seem to find a good way to position and solder the RG174 cable ends to the banana plugs. There's just a slight dimple at the end of the plugs and I can't figure a good mechanical way to connect them before soldering. Thanks for any help! K2 #5757 (in build process) KX1 #1517 (4 bander) ___ 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] November NAQCC Sprint
This Wednesday evening (Thursday morning UTC time) will be the NAQCC Sprint for November. This month, the Sprint will be held on 80, 40 and 20 meters. This month, a special certificate will be given to the operator who has the most QSOs on 80 Meters. The Sprint will run from 8:30 to 10:30 PM EST, 7:30 to 9:30 PM CST, 6:30 to 8:30 PM MST and 5:30 to 7:30 PM PST or from 0130 to 0330 UTC on the morning of November 16th. The recommended frequencies are: 80M - 3555-3565 kHz (Be courteous to FISTS operating on 3558 kHz) 40M - 7039-7050 kHz (Avoid W1AW on 7047.5 kHz) 20M - 14059-14065 kHz. The exchange is as follows: RST - SPC (State Province or Country) - NAQCC Nr. (non-Members send power level in place of NAQCC Nr., e.g. 5W, 1W, etc. Be sure to add the W.) Remember to mention the type of antenna you have used when submitting your log as there will be two separate categories - simple wire antennas and gain antennas, such as yagis, quads and periodics. Also, remember the bonus multipliers that you get for using either a straight key or bug during the event. All entries must be postmarked or email dated before 2400Z on November 22nd, 2006. For full details, please visit http://www.arm-tek.net/~yoel/sprint200611.html And to join the NAQCC (if you haven't already!) please go to http://www.arm-tek.net/~yoel/joinup.html 73 de Larry W2LJ NAQCC #35 ___ 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 assembly question
Doug Person wrote: Everybody needs one of these little dodads with the two alligator clips mounted on ball joints. Radio Shack used to have them. Radio Shack still carry this item. Kronus Helping Hands , Cat# 0-87259-879-9. I have seen them in the stores locally. Larry KB5DXY ___ 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
[EMAIL PROTECTED]: RE: [Elecraft] Alignment of VCO - Problem]
Please forgive my block-headedness! I replaced the D13 and no better. The probe seems OK and gave a correct reading when it was checked on page 46. I will proceed with the construction of the RF Probe. Thanks David, First thing is to verify the probe. Did the probe test give a correct reading of 4 MHz when it was checked in the 3rd step on page 46 of the manual? Note that this only checks the operation of the probe and has nothing to do with proper setting of the 4 MHz reference oscillator. If your probe did NOT read the 4 MHz oscillator, look for the problem with your probe - is it connected properly, the shield should be closest to the left side panel when plugged in. If your probe DID do the 4 MHz test OK, then let us know and we may be able to help find the reason your VCO is not functioning properly. Tell us what test equipment you have available, and if you do not have an oscilloscope or other means of reading RF Voltages, please build the RF Probe - parts are provided with the K2 kit, see appendix E of the manual for the schematic. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Hi, I am at the stage in building my K2 on page 60 in the VCO test. Up to this stage all was well. Now, with the probe _definitely_ connected to TP1. I get a reading of all zeros. Does anybody know the trouble-shooting procedure? Thanks. (I didn't do the calibration of C22, due to not having a frequency counter, but the reading was withing range) -- David Dawson ___ 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] Alignment of VCO - Problem
I don't know. Must be asleep at the switch. Here's what's what so far this end. The probe verifies -- it did read correctly in step 3 on page 46. The leads are correct. I have replaced the suspect diode but the probe will not read anything at TP1. I have constructed the RF Probe and connected it to my DMM. It reads voltages at certain points, but sees nothing at TP1. On Mon, Nov 13, 2006 at 08:21:51PM -0500, Don Wilhelm wrote: David, First thing is to verify the probe. Did the probe test give a correct reading of 4 MHz when it was checked in the 3rd step on page 46 of the manual? Note that this only checks the operation of the probe and has nothing to do with proper setting of the 4 MHz reference oscillator. If your probe did NOT read the 4 MHz oscillator, look for the problem with your probe - is it connected properly, the shield should be closest to the left side panel when plugged in. If your probe DID do the 4 MHz test OK, then let us know and we may be able to help find the reason your VCO is not functioning properly. Tell us what test equipment you have available, and if you do not have an oscilloscope or other means of reading RF Voltages, please build the RF Probe - parts are provided with the K2 kit, see appendix E of the manual for the schematic. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Hi, I am at the stage in building my K2 on page 60 in the VCO test. Up to this stage all was well. Now, with the probe _definitely_ connected to TP1. I get a reading of all zeros. Does anybody know the trouble-shooting procedure? Thanks. (I didn't do the calibration of C22, due to not having a frequency counter, but the reading was withing range) -- David Dawson -- David Dawson The greatest dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well-meaning but without understanding. -- Justice Louis D. Brandeis ___ 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 Rigs in the QRP-ARCI Contests
There is no doubt which rig dominates the standings that way. I'm getting ready to insert Elecraft into the rig column on my spreadsheet, and delete it out if the entrant used something different ;) Of course, my K2 runs all the contests with me too! 73/72 Jeff - VA3JFF = L. Jeffrey Hetherington - VA3JFF QRP-ARCI (sm) Contest Manager QRP-ARCI (sm) #9223 / K2 #3375 / KX1 #631 __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.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] Steve Wozniacs call
Ladies and Gentlemen, Here is the reply from Steve : - In 6th grade I had a Novice license which expired in 1 year. In 11th grade I had a Technician's license which lasted 5 years. It was equivalent to a General for the test except a slower code speed. I didn't want to go to San Francisco for the test and fail the code speed, although I was copying at 12 wpm. My call signs were WA6BND and WV6VLY. I forget which was which. Hope it is warmer where you are... 73 de Steve G0XAR ___ 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
