[Elecraft] KPA500 fault
I am enjoying my new KPA500 coupled with my K3, and I have set up the K3 to transmit at approximately 25 watts in the operate position on all bands except 30 meters. However, if the amplifier menu is set to default to operate mode upon KPA500 initialization, I experience an immediate overdrive fault on the amplifier which tells me that the amplifier is not immediately sensing the lower power output setting on the K3.I have temporarily remedied this situation by setting the KPA500 menu to default to stby mode upon turn on, and then when I manually switch to oper mode, I do not experience the overdrive fault . It would be more convenient to have the amplifier default to the operational state, as designed. I am curious if anyone else is experiencing this situation?? __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question..
Let me chime in with an opinion and my reasoning. I have been one of the vocal ones about having a transverter I/F which it appears will not be available on the KX3. Understandable; size considerations make adding that difficult. But since the KX3 will run 5-10w 160-6m, if one wanted to use a transverter with a 28-MHz IF, that is doable. Typically the major transverter mfr's have an option for connection to a transceiver running up to 10w. That usually consists of a 10w 50-ohm flange mounted load with capacitive coupling of a few mw to drive the transverter. Pin diodes are used for TR so the transverter bypasses the load in Rx. DEMI offers this option in their line, and one can order the module to retrofit a transverter having separated Tx and Rx IF connections. For microwave transverters, 144-MHz is a favorite IF and that would interface with a KX3 internal 2m transverter, nicely. I would prefer a full-power 2m transverter for regular use on 2m, and either adapt my mw transverters to handle 5-10w, or perhaps Elecraft could add a mw level bypass around the 10w RF module that would offer best of all worlds. But I agree with Oliver that I would chose the full 5/10w 2m transverter over a mw version and forgo the ATU. I suspect that would satisfy most users, either intending use of the KX3 HF/6m only and wanting an ATU or wanting a 2m transverter and able to accept not having an internal ATU. I suspect there would be few buyers of a mw level 2m transverter. For my particular use, The KX3 will probably get used more on 6m and 2m, as I will be selling all my VHF/UHF transceivers to enable buying a KX3. So I need to replace that capability. The transverters I use with the K3 are narrow band on the CW/SSB end and do not cover the FM end. The KX3 is a nice size to replace my 2m mobile. One can add amplifiers for more power in mobile. I bought a compact 35w linear for my FT-817 that packs well in a suitcase along with a mag-mt 2m whip. - Another reason I would go for the 5/10w 2m transverter is I already own a 20mw 144/28 transverter that I bought for my SDR-IQ and is usable as a mw IF. It gets little use except as a mw IF now, as I share the 28-MHz Rx output of my current transverters with both the SDR-IQ and my K3. I have converted my entire transverter line to 28-MHz IF, 144-1296 MHz. Only transverters higher in microwaves use 144-MHz IF and they are run only when portable or as a rover, so are not used with the K3. -- Message: 21 Date: Fri, 26 Aug 2011 22:57:55 +0200 From: Oliver Dr?se dro...@necg.de Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question.. To: elecraft_mailman.qth.net Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: A6EAE713511A495391CE44AE65155757@dh8bqax60 Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset=iso-8859-1; reply-type=original Hi Wayne, please don't sacrifice performance. The internal 2 m transverter should at least have 5 watts output to be useful for normal 2 m applications, 10 W would be even better but I'm not sure this is doable with the space limits. ;-)) A very low power 2 m transverter (10 mW?) is probably not of much use to those who need the transverter for 2 m portable ops (which is very popular in Europe btw.) and these might be the majority of guys wanting the internal transverter. Yes, there are those guys wanting to use it as a microwave I/F radio (me too) which makes perfect sense but especially in this use-case the antenna-tuner f?r HF is usually not needed ;-)). So therefor I would rather prefer a top notch normal transverter with 5 or 10 W (and the possibility to set power as low as 1 or 10 mW for transverter use) and use a T1 externally if I ever needed an antenna matching unit in parallel with the internal transverter. If you'll provide both an internal high power 2 m transverter module *and* (alternatively) an internal ATU with 2 m low power included I will be a happy camper but can still imagine there are folks who don't want to pay for the low power 2 m part in the ATU so you would need a 3rd option being just the tuner without transverter. Not sure that is a good business choice but that is up to you, of course. ;-)) Just wondering if it is worth all the efforts and time investments. But I guess you can never please all at once. ;-)) Anyway, good luck and have fun with the designing tasks. 73, Olli - DH8BQA - Elecraft K3 #4546 w/ K144XV 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 == BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 50-1.1kw?, 144-1.4kw, 432-100w, 1296-60w, 3400-? DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@gmail.com == __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question..
Hi Ed, The KX3 is intended to provide support for at least one (and maybe more) external transverters, including a programmable band display and a keying line. Unlike the K3, there won't be separate transverter IN/ OUT jacks; you'll need to use a transverter with a multiplexed RX/TX connector. Drive power, via the HF-6 m antenna jack, will be adjustable down to a minimum of about 100 mW. Further details are TBD. 73, Wayne N6KR On Aug 27, 2011, at 12:16 AM, Edward R. Cole wrote: Let me chime in with an opinion and my reasoning. I have been one of the vocal ones about having a transverter I/F which it appears will not be available on the KX3. Understandable; size considerations make adding that difficult. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 fault
Hi Len My KPA500 is normally set to PWR ON = STBY, which is the factory default setting. But after setting it to OPER for a test, I noticed the same thing. I suspect this is a timing issue, just like leaving the K3 at low power on band change if BAND CHG is set to STBY. The next FW release is supposed to solve the problem. Some hams (field testers?) seem to have FW 1.11 (which is not even Beta yet) but most still use 1.02. Let's wait and see... 73 Richard - HB9ANM Len Chesler-2 wrote: However, if the amplifier menu is set to default to operate mode upon KPA500 initialization, I experience an immediate overdrive fault on the amplifier which tells me that the amplifier is not immediately sensing the lower power output setting on the K3. - Richard - HB9ANM -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-fault-tp6731485p6731711.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] unequal tone power output in FSK
On Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:29:07 -0400, you wrote: I agree with Dave. If what you were seeing was due to passband ripple, choosing a different RTTY pitch should make a difference. I don't believe it does. Not only that, but if it were passband ripple, it would affect AFSK A the same as FSK D. My solution to this is to use AFSK A - it has almost all the same features as FSK D, but produces cleaner output. I use DATA A at 1585Hz and have the same problem. -- OV1A Jens Sent from my desktop PC with a nice big screen and a real keyboard. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question...
I just want an Elecraft KXM-3 ...HF/2/70 Mobile rig.10/100W Grin... Gary On 27 August 2011 15:13, Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com wrote: To each his own, but Mike Morrow wrote: In the 45 years I've been around ham radio, the probability that any HF ham rig would be used in an emergency has been vanishingly small, with the highest probabilities having been 45 years ago, not today A few years ago a ham in Oregon broke his leg hiking. He used a KX1 to call rescuers. I'm not kidding. VHF/UHF doesn't work at all in many mountainous areas, at least if you're down in a hole between peaks. For that matter, there are wide stretches of the West with no repeaters. NVIS on 40 m with a wire-in-a- tree or a backpacking dipole will often do the job with just a few watts. The clincher is that the end of the world is coming (!). I heard this on a shortwave station, thanks to the KX3's general coverage receive. An emergency HF radio would, in any event, need to be resistent to harm from adverse environmental conditions *while in operation*. Around here the most likely emergency that would cut off communications is an earthquake. Small radios stored in bags are likely to survive and be quite useful. It's buildings that suffer. An emergency HF radio should also *not* be a QRP rig...at least no rig *designated* as an emergency radio. I routinely check into a 40-m net and get good reports during the daytime with a short antenna 15' off the ground and 5 watts. HFpackers often running 10 W or less check into daily nets on 17 m and 20 m and work stations thousands of miles away. If there's a will, there's a way, and QRP will often get through. Even when it doesn't, it's fun trying. An emergency HF radio should also have sufficient battery capacity for more than just a few hours of intermittent operation. Depends on what you mean by intermittent. If my KX3 gives me 10 hours of casual operation at 3 watts from a 2500-mAhr battery, surely I could maintain useful communications during an emergency by being even more judicious with my transmit time. That said, a small, collapsable solar panel would be an excellent addition to the station. It can power the KX3's internal battery charger. On a *short* hike, carrying a 4 AH battery which prudence mandates won't be much of an impediment. I've done that many times, even when I used SWL's small DSW-20, -30, and -40 units. I travel *really* light. On day hikes my entire station weighs about 1.5 to 2 lbs, allowing me to carry two cans of beer rather than one. On a long hike and overnight stay, a 4 AH battery will be mandatory, unless one enjoys the dead weight of the KX3 and antenna after the internal batteries are depleted. 5-10 hours of operation from a charged 2500 mA internal battery is sufficient for all but the most boring business trips or hikes. I'm usually hiking (or businessing) a lot more than hamming. 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html -- VK4FD - Motorhome Mobile Elecraft Equipment K3 #679, KPA-500 #018 Living the dream!!! __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 fault
Hi Len, I think KPA500 FW 4.11 will fix this and similar issues You can request the pre-beta by sending an e-mail to d...@elecraft.com. 73, John, W2GW - Original Message - From: Richard Squire - HB9ANM hb9...@bluewin.ch To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, August 27, 2011 5:07 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 fault Hi Len My KPA500 is normally set to PWR ON = STBY, which is the factory default setting. But after setting it to OPER for a test, I noticed the same thing. I suspect this is a timing issue, just like leaving the K3 at low power on band change if BAND CHG is set to STBY. The next FW release is supposed to solve the problem. Some hams (field testers?) seem to have FW 1.11 (which is not even Beta yet) but most still use 1.02. Let's wait and see... 73 Richard - HB9ANM Len Chesler-2 wrote: However, if the amplifier menu is set to default to operate mode upon KPA500 initialization, I experience an immediate overdrive fault on the amplifier which tells me that the amplifier is not immediately sensing the lower power output setting on the K3. - Richard - HB9ANM -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-fault-tp6731485p6731711.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question...
I can't argue with the reasoning from either side of the camp here - if I was in the US, but I'm not... I'm in the UK, 30m west of London in the M4 (that’s highway/freeway, think 101) corridor with suburbia all around, houses in the 'country' as close or closer than those in a NY suburb and VHF/UHF is likely to be of more use in an emergency. If I plan to go portable on some trail, that's a good 45 mins to the nearest quiet spot, I'd be planning that and taking something like an 4Ah gel cell and a tent. If I want to hike up a mountain, that's 2 to 3 hrs to something 'not small' and 5 hrs to something equivalent to one of your local small mountain ranges (we don't do 'big' here). I still like the idea of the KX3, I can see uses for it here in both HF and VHF, but in my own mind I was thinking 'great 2M rig with fantastic frontend', to drive a 100W PA for our 2M contests at my alternative QTH - with mains power and a permanent mast. A lot less messing about than disconnecting the K3, XV144 etc and putting it in the car to go the 2 miles to that location (a Scout HQ on higher ground where we have erected a small mast and 2m beam). I can see running SOTA with it as HF and then, yes;, light, minimal kit, ATU etc. would be great, but I don't do SOTA and as I say, for anything worth the climb, it's a good 4 to 5 hrs away. If I want HF, I'll want an ATU as well, so I'll have to remove the 2M - I don't think the intention is to plug and play with these on a regular basis. So to me, although very useful, an internal battery is not an inherent part of the rig, but a good 2m module will be. Guess I may end up buying 2! As Wayne says, each to his own... 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174, P3 #108, KX3 #??? -- The trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit. -Moliere, actor and playwright (1622-1673) On 27 Aug 2011, at 06:13, Wayne Burdick wrote: To each his own, but Mike Morrow wrote: In the 45 years I've been around ham radio, the probability that any HF ham rig would be used in an emergency has been vanishingly small, with the highest probabilities having been 45 years ago, not today A few years ago a ham in Oregon broke his leg hiking. He used a KX1 to call rescuers. I'm not kidding. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question..
We were thinking along the lines of 200-500 mW for the micro transverter, if it's even possible. The regular transverter option could be as high as 5 W. We'll see. Wayne N6KR Now that sounds interesting. I run a bunch of microwave transverters from a 2m IF at 50-100 mW and have found no simple replacement for my old FT-290R IF radio (other than a second FT-290R), used at the low power setting. They are nearing 30 years of age and aren't going to last forever. I don't like the use of a higher power radio turned down due to the danger of inadvertantly transmitting into the transverter at higher power, or of high power transients. Plus the FT-290R draws very little current on receive (~75 mA, no signal, no dial light) which is useful in portable operations. I currently use them on 1296 MHz (ancient Microwave Modules transverter), 2.3/3.4/5.7/24 GHz (homebrew transverters) and 10 GHz (Kuhne/DB6NT MKU10G2 transverter), with the transverters switched by the +6.8V (through a resistor) that the FT-290R puts on the antenna connector in transmit. Elecraft might consider making available a DC control voltage like this available on such a low power transverter (with the equivalent of the K2's 8R HOLD mode to avoid relay chatter in the transverter). It wuld be nice to have a newer option ! 73, Steve VE3SMA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K1 praise
This is probably off topic, seeing as how most topics are now K3 or KX3. Still, just had to praise my K1... Again, this Saturday morning, turned K1-4 s/n 2258 to 15M and started working EU with 4 watts to a center-fed doublet. In about 15 minutes, Croatia, England, and Russia. If this weekend is anything like last, will likely work 10 other countries or more. I built this rig several years ago, including the internal tuner to use for parkbench portable. Since completion, I can't imagine how many QSOs have made with this little rig. I am always amazed to answer a CQ using less than 5 watts and receive a response from someone thousands of miles away. I own a number of other QRP rigs, including a K2, but the little K1's simplicity and capability always draw me to use it on the weekends. 72, KB5JO __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Daisy Chain
Connecting the PC to the P3 and then the P3 to the K3 was recently discussed. When I look at the manual for the KPA 500 it shows the PC connected to the KPA 500 but only the AUX to the K3 even though there is a RS 232 connector marked (XCVR). So, can one chain the PC through the KPA 500 to the K3 the came way as with the P3 and K3? Can you chain all three together? if so in what order? If one has a KPA 500 and K3 it would be nice not to have to swap cables for doing updates etc. This does not seem to be covered in the KPA 500 manual but somehow seems to be implied by the conductor labeling. It only mentions connecting the (XCVR) connector to a Kenwood tranceiver. David K0LUM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
I do not think the K1 is at all off topic. I am using two K3s here but having seen the wee K1 at Dayton am now fascinated by it and playing around with the idea of purchasing one new or used. I would be very interested in hearing how the receiver is and how stable the VFO is or is it Xtal controlled. It is so small that it seems amazing that one can do so much with it. Perhaps the K3, KX3, P3 and KPA 500 have left the wee K1 in the shade for too long. I might use it with a large Yagi and this would be cheating but the K1 pulls at the heart if it has any type of performance at all and being from the Elecraft stable it must be reasonably good. Perhaps I need to do a web search for reviews but this forum is not a bad place for seeking comment on Elecraft product. I find myself working more K3 users all the time. 73 Doug EI2CN -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of rhule...@comcast.net Sent: 27 August 2011 15:35 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K1 praise This is probably off topic, seeing as how most topics are now K3 or KX3. Still, just had to praise my K1... Again, this Saturday morning, turned K1-4 s/n 2258 to 15M and started working EU with 4 watts to a center-fed doublet. In about 15 minutes, Croatia, England, and Russia. If this weekend is anything like last, will likely work 10 other countries or more. I built this rig several years ago, including the internal tuner to use for parkbench portable. Since completion, I can't imagine how many QSOs have made with this little rig. I am always amazed to answer a CQ using less than 5 watts and receive a response from someone thousands of miles away. I own a number of other QRP rigs, including a K2, but the little K1's simplicity and capability always draw me to use it on the weekends. 72, KB5JO __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KPA Hi Pwr fault additional info
I am utilizing FW vers. 1.02 and connecting to the K3 via the aux bus cable. If I set the KPA500 PWR ON menu setting to OPER, the K3 will not show the KPA500 OPER on the display and apprently is not syncing. In that state, if I transmit, the amp will immediately go into a Hi Pwr fault. (no matter how long I wait for the aux bus cable to sync). If ,However, I set the PWR ON menu default to STBY and manually switch to OPER, the K3 will properly sync and will display KPA500 OPER and all is well. Could this be a firmware issue? Any suggestions? Tnx Len __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KPA Hi Pwr fault additional info
Len, Thanks for this post. A local here can't get his KPA500 running due to the same fault. I've forwarded it to him. At least if paragraph 2 works for him, he can feel that the amp works -- sort of. He and Elecraft are in touch about this problem. 73 de Brian/K3KO On 8/27/2011 16:04, Len Chesler wrote: I am utilizing FW vers. 1.02 and connecting to the K3 via the aux bus cable. If I set the KPA500 PWR ON menu setting to OPER, the K3 will not show the KPA500 OPER on the display and apprently is not syncing. In that state, if I transmit, the amp will immediately go into a Hi Pwr fault. (no matter how long I wait for the aux bus cable to sync). If ,However, I set the PWR ON menu default to STBY and manually switch to OPER, the K3 will properly sync and will display KPA500 OPER and all is well. Could this be a firmware issue? Any suggestions? Tnx Len - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1392 / Virus Database: 1520/3859 - Release Date: 08/26/11 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] W2
I purchased a W2, used, that came with two modules. 200 and 2000. Do I really need to monitor the K3's output? Or, should I put the W2 at the output of the KPA500. Advice please. Phil Philip LaMarche LaMarche Enterprises, Inc mailto:p...@lamarcheenterprises.com p...@lamarcheenterprises.com http://www.lamarcheenterprises.com/ www.LaMarcheEnterprises.com 727-944-3226 727-937-8834 Fax 727-510-5038 Cell http://www.w9dvm.com/ www.w9dvm.com K3 # 1605 KPA500 # 029 P3 #1480 CCA 98-00827 CRA 1701 W9DVM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question...
I believe that there was a miss communication here. When people were were suggesting that the internal battery area in the KX3 be used for a full power 2 meter transmitter, they weren't just asking that that the battery compartment be permanently removed. I believe what some were asking for, was the ability to remove the battery pack and then have access to an additional 'hook' that would ALSO provided the ability to attach a full power 2 meter module. This could allow for both types of operations. For those that do want the internal battery, they could use the standard 'hook' for the 2m module, and remove the ATU from it's intended location, thereby allowing the battery to be installed.. Of course this means a duplicate flex cable that terminates to a 'hook' board where it could sit in the unused battery compartment (and be removed with some ease).. This of course also means that Elecraft has one more option 'board/bracket' to sell you... Another thing I would like to see, and this goes for the K3 as well, is the ability to turn off the Backlight, AND be able to turn off the LED's as well. The LEDs need only to be on for Delta mode (split) etc, and don't need to be seen at all times. For those that do want them on all the time, it would still be nice if we were able to dim them down to the lowest setting (as they do when the backlight is on) In my opinion this would help save energy and LEDs when someone is using their rig portable, or in a 'remote' setup, and wants to leave it on 24/7 as I do when I travel. I would rather not have the LEDs burning needlessly if I'm not there to see them. Especially since their going at full brightness in the 'day' mode. Just my 2 cents, Michael N6MQL On 8/27/2011 9:00 AM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote: e: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question... -- Michael Aretsky N6MQL __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] W2
Typically wattmeters are connected to the output of the amplifier, to monitor the overall station output (whether the amplifier is in use or in bypass) and the SWR of the antenna system. If you were designing your own amplifier or suspected it of presenting a poor SWR to the transceiver, you might find it useful to put a wattmeter/SWR bridge between transceiver and amplifier to verify that the amplifier is presenting a good match to the transceiver. The second lower-power W2 module might be useful in a two-radio station where one station does not use an amplifier. Or if someone had an amplifier that covered 160-10 and used just transceiver output on another ANT connector for 6 meters. Dick, K6KR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Phil LaMarche Sent: Saturday, August 27, 2011 9:42 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] W2 I purchased a W2, used, that came with two modules. 200 and 2000. Do I really need to monitor the K3's output? Or, should I put the W2 at the output of the KPA500. Advice please. Phil Philip LaMarche LaMarche Enterprises, Inc mailto:p...@lamarcheenterprises.com p...@lamarcheenterprises.com http://www.lamarcheenterprises.com/ www.LaMarcheEnterprises.com 727-944-3226 727-937-8834 Fax 727-510-5038 Cell http://www.w9dvm.com/ www.w9dvm.com K3 # 1605 KPA500 # 029 P3 #1480 CCA 98-00827 CRA 1701 W9DVM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Daisy Chain
The KPA500 owner's manual covers this on page 7, the description of all the
back panel connectors:
Optional: RS232 (XCVR) {8} connects the KPA500 to a Kenwood transceiver
using a standard 9-pin serial cable.
That's all it's used for.
The KPA500 does not pass thru commands (or K3 firmware) from one RS-232
connector to another as does the P3.
I use a DB-9 ABCD 4-way switch box to connect a single KUSB to
A) a P3 and through that to one K3,
B) a second K3 without a P3,
C) a KPA500, and
D) a serial data cable used for the W2, XG3, and K144XV.
My work requires me to load firmware more often than most, and I also tired
of swapping connectors a lot.
Dick, K6KR
-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David Christ
Sent: Saturday, August 27, 2011 8:33 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] Daisy Chain
Connecting the PC to the P3 and then the P3 to the K3 was recently
discussed. When I look at the manual for the KPA 500 it shows the PC
connected to the KPA 500 but only the AUX to the K3 even though there is a
RS 232 connector marked (XCVR).
So, can one chain the PC through the KPA 500 to the K3 the came way as with
the P3 and K3? Can you chain all three together? if so in what order? If
one has a KPA 500 and K3 it would be nice not to have to swap cables for
doing updates etc.
This does not seem to be covered in the KPA 500 manual but somehow seems to
be implied by the conductor labeling. It only mentions connecting the
(XCVR) connector to a Kenwood tranceiver.
David K0LUM
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Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
Doug, I think you would be happy with the K1. I am using K1 number 583 which I built and have completed DXCC on 40 meters with a vertical antenna. Originally the K1 was two bands only but I bought the four band board when it was released. The only other addition was the noise blanker which has stopped working. I have another noise blanker board ready to go in soon. I did all of the updates and modifications without any problems. My K1 is stable and very reliable. I did replace the main tuning (10 turn pot) with a higher grade product with a metal shaft. I'm glad I did that, the old pot with the plastic shaft was shaky and the frequency would jump if not careful. The new pot makes the radio seem very solid. I have used the K1 on 40, 30, 17 and some 20 meters. I have QSLs from a lot of DX worked. My favorite was to work other QRPers on 40. 40 has changed a lot for QRP stations and they are no longer in one area. It was fun to listen around 7040 as there was a lot of activity. One late night, I heard a lot of EU QRP stations working 7030. I called for quite some time but never got an answer, which shows the receiver works pretty well. True, the K1 has taken a back seat to other Elecraft radios, a fact I do not understand. I have truly enjoyed my K1, the building and many hours operating. I have stalked DX and worked contests with success. As a more than casual user, I can recommend the K1 to someone that wants to relive the thrill of ham radio. 73, Mike AC4UR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K1 Praise
KB5JO's comments about his K1 are certainly relevant in my view. This little gem of a rig doesn't get all that much attention these days, but it is still deserving of such. I still have my K1, a fairly early one, and I must admit that, at first, I wasn't as happy with it as I thought I would be. That was mainly because I had to switch boards in order to gain access to more than just two bands. Later, though, Elecraft solved this by adding a 4 band board--I just wish they had offered it that way from the start. The K1 is a very competent little radio, and a lot of fun to operate. It's small enough to be very portable, but not necessarily a prime favorite of the backpacking crowd. Mine has the built in ATU, and combined with the BL-2, it will work with just about anything you might want to use for an antenna. You get a solid 5 watts, and then some, and minimal battery consumption. For several years, before I retired, I spent a lot of lunch hours operating from nearby parks. I also used it on several Field Day events. Everything I needed fit easily into a relatively small briefcase--the K1, an MP-1 antenna system, some feedline, paddle, and power. I usually managed a QSO or two, even on 40 meters at mid-day, and was rarely skunked. The new KX3 may be viewed as a replacement for the K1, if not the K2 and KX1, but I think there are plenty of good reasons for keeping a K1 around. For one thing, it's a darned good back-up radio even if you do have something better. I doubt the KX3 will be as battery friendly as the K1. Maybe most importantly, it's a radio you can really build yourself, and if you get one that is used, you can still probably service it yourself. That has to count for a lot, at least to some of us. I take great pride in being a K3 owner. However, to be honest with you, I take greater pride in the fact that I built a K1, K2, and KX1 that work! The first transmitter I had was homebrew from the chassis up (with a lot of help from my Elmers). A couple of Heathkits followed, but then there was a hiatus for nearly 35 years when I didn't build much of anything. Then a couple of NorCal rigs came along (Wayne's designs), and a lot of the fun I had been missing returned. A number of other rigs followed (too many probably), and now I have a couple of shelves filled with rigs I constructed. Each one represents a very gratifying experience, and I can re-appreciate much of it each time I pull one of those rigs down and hook it up. Anyway, I prefer to think of the K1 as a mature radio, meaning it has been around a while, has been superceded in many respects by later designs, but still has a lot of good life to go. Again, it is a very competent little radio, and shouldn't be dismissed from consideration. For many of you it may be just what you need, and maybe all that you need--at least for certain situations. Dave W7AQK === Email scanned by PC Tools - No viruses or spyware found. (Email Guard: 7.0.0.18, Virus/Spyware Database: 6.18200) http://www.pctools.com/ === __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
The K1 (and KX1) definietely have not taken a back seat to our other radios. :-) Even the K2 is still selling well after the introduction of the K3. We are still selling a good number of these each month. These are unique and timeless designs that have a lot of appeal. 73, Eric WA6HHQ www.elecraft.com _..._ On Aug 27, 2011, at 10:15 AM, Michael Byrd mbyr...@tampabay.rr.com wrote: Doug, I think you would be happy with the K1. I am using K1 number 583 which I built and have completed DXCC on 40 meters with a vertical antenna. Originally the K1 was two bands only but I bought the four band board when it was released. The only other addition was the noise blanker which has stopped working. I have another noise blanker board ready to go in soon. I did all of the updates and modifications without any problems. My K1 is stable and very reliable. I did replace the main tuning (10 turn pot) with a higher grade product with a metal shaft. I'm glad I did that, the old pot with the plastic shaft was shaky and the frequency would jump if not careful. The new pot makes the radio seem very solid. I have used the K1 on 40, 30, 17 and some 20 meters. I have QSLs from a lot of DX worked. My favorite was to work other QRPers on 40. 40 has changed a lot for QRP stations and they are no longer in one area. It was fun to listen around 7040 as there was a lot of activity. One late night, I heard a lot of EU QRP stations working 7030. I called for quite some time but never got an answer, which shows the receiver works pretty well. True, the K1 has taken a back seat to other Elecraft radios, a fact I do not understand. I have truly enjoyed my K1, the building and many hours operating. I have stalked DX and worked contests with success. As a more than casual user, I can recommend the K1 to someone that wants to relive the thrill of ham radio. 73, Mike AC4UR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
Eric, You're selling them because I am buying them. I have the K3, P3, KX1 and a few of the min-kit things. My next is the K1 and then the KX3 if it is out by then. Oh, I plan on the KPA500 this Fall sometime so make sure you make one extra kit for me and the KAT500 of course when it is available. I will be done buying when I run out of money or when you guys quit the business -- whichever comes first. Keep up the good work. Oh, I plan on the K2 but probably after I retire as it is a bigger project. Maybe I should buy that now? 73, phil, k7PEH On Aug 27, 2011, at 10:38 AM, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote: The K1 (and KX1) definietely have not taken a back seat to our other radios. :-) Even the K2 is still selling well after the introduction of the K3. We are still selling a good number of these each month. These are unique and timeless designs that have a lot of appeal. 73, Eric WA6HHQ www.elecraft.com _..._ On Aug 27, 2011, at 10:15 AM, Michael Byrd mbyr...@tampabay.rr.com wrote: Doug, I think you would be happy with the K1. I am using K1 number 583 which I built and have completed DXCC on 40 meters with a vertical antenna. Originally the K1 was two bands only but I bought the four band board when it was released. The only other addition was the noise blanker which has stopped working. I have another noise blanker board ready to go in soon. I did all of the updates and modifications without any problems. My K1 is stable and very reliable. I did replace the main tuning (10 turn pot) with a higher grade product with a metal shaft. I'm glad I did that, the old pot with the plastic shaft was shaky and the frequency would jump if not careful. The new pot makes the radio seem very solid. I have used the K1 on 40, 30, 17 and some 20 meters. I have QSLs from a lot of DX worked. My favorite was to work other QRPers on 40. 40 has changed a lot for QRP stations and they are no longer in one area. It was fun to listen around 7040 as there was a lot of activity. One late night, I heard a lot of EU QRP stations working 7030. I called for quite some time but never got an answer, which shows the receiver works pretty well. True, the K1 has taken a back seat to other Elecraft radios, a fact I do not understand. I have truly enjoyed my K1, the building and many hours operating. I have stalked DX and worked contests with success. As a more than casual user, I can recommend the K1 to someone that wants to relive the thrill of ham radio. 73, Mike AC4UR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
On 8/27/2011 10:57 AM, Phil Hystad wrote: My next is the K1 and then the KX3 if it is out by then. I built, in order: K2, KX1, K3, KPA500. I use my K2 on field events such as SOTA activations and QRP contests. Earlier this year [on Field Day], Rich NU6T and I activated SOTA W6/SN-039 [9,500 ft Leviathan Peak]. I had my K2, Rich his K1. After awhile, I said, Let's trade radios, I've never used a K1. I was truly amazed, that is a really, really cool little radio, and about half the weight of my K2. I suspect under lab conditions, my K2 RX will outperform the K1 a little bit, I noticed on very strong signals [well over S9] the K1 pulled a little in frequency, but it really impressed me. It's on my list to buy, not at the top, but when I win the lottery, I'll buy them all. 73, Fred K6DGW Auburn CA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question...and Internal Battery Compartment Design
I wrote: ...that any HF ham rig would be used in an emergency has been vanishingly small... Wayne wrote: A few years ago a ham in Oregon broke his leg hiking. He used a KX1 to call rescuers. I'm not kidding. That was W7AU in 2008. It was an impressive use of the KX1. Another party of hikers put the antenna up for him, he then let them proceed on. Afterwards, it took several hours of calling before getting a reply. All in all, the operation had some rough edges, had the emergency been really threatening! I also have some similar real-life experience. In 1998 on a solitary day-hike in Alabama's Sipsey Wilderness, through mis-step I broke both bones in my left lower leg. Such events are common every year, given the many millons of miles hiked in thousands of remote locations in North America. I just did what most have always done...I crawled for what seemed a *real* long time until I got to a trailhead. I was far more thankful for the water I carried than for the radio. Fortunately some high school kids came by and got me to the nearest hospital. (No muss, no fuss, no rescue squads, no Forest Service paperwork!) VHF/UHF doesn't work at all in many mountainous areas, at least if you're down in a hole between peaks. For that matter, there are wide stretches of the West with no repeaters. I had my FT-50R HT, but no ham repeaters were accessible, nor was there cell coverage. Since my non-compound fractures were not all that serious, I was not tempted to try use of Forest Service or Sheriff's Department repeaters. My point with this story is that these events are not rare. When ham radio helps, it seems always to be more a matter of convenience rather than having any real effect on the *final* outcome. BTW, if I'd have had an HF QRP rig with me, I still would not have attempted to put it into service. That would have been challenging and, more importantly, potentially dangerous. Simple breaks can easily become compound fractures during the activity that would be required. I heard this on a shortwave station, thanks to the KX3's general coverage receive. That capability is just one of the characteristics that make the KX3 such an exciting product. I hope to have mine before the Mayan Apocalypse, which I understand is a state holiday in California. :-) I wrote: An emergency HF radio would, in any event, need to be resistent to harm from adverse environmental conditions *while in operation*. Wayne wrote: Around here the most likely emergency that would cut off communications is an earthquake. Small radios stored in bags are likely to survive and be quite useful. I did not mean to find fault in the hardening of the KX3 against adverse environmental effects. The vast vast majority of all commercial HF ham transceivers ever made do no better, or not as well. I wrote: An emergency HF radio should also *not* be a QRP rig...at least no rig *designated* as an emergency radio. Wayne wrote: ...QRP will often get through. Even when it doesn't, it's fun trying. But that's not the point of emergency service. Power is *always* a blessing in real emergency communications. QRP success requires effort and skill on the part of the receiving party, not the transmitting party (an awkward QRP'er's secret). Though, in an emergency it is the transmitting party that will be the one hurt. I wrote: An emergency HF radio should also have sufficient battery capacity for more than just a few hours of intermittent operation. Wayne wrote: If my KX3 gives me 10 hours of casual operation at 3 watts...surely I could maintain useful communications during an emergency by being even more judicious with my transmit time. Ah, yes. But wouldn't it have been better to have stocked a 4 or 7 AH SLA for external use? Wayne wrote: That said, a small, collapsable solar panel would be an excellent addition to the station. It can power the KX3's internal battery charger. That would be an excellent accessory in the Elecraft product line. But this brings me back to what is, IMHO, *the* most important issue of internal batteries. I asked: What sort of chemical barrier will exist between the battery and the internals of the KX3 to prevent damage in the event of outgassing or leakage of chemical contaminants from the battery? If there won't be an impermeable compartment, that alone says Better keep the chemistry outside the radio! That is the **real** concern about internal batteries in *any* rig. Thanks for your replies, Wayne. I'm not in any way being critical of the most stunningly impressive radio that has ever been proposed for the hiking, camping, and backpacking ham. It may take you all a year to work through the initial order backlog! My order will be there too. 73, Mike / KK5F __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help:
Re: [Elecraft] W2
Dick answered the question of where the wattmeter usually goes, but note that the KPA500 does *not* need an external output power monitor. That monitoring is built into the KPA500 with both front-panel LED 'bargraphs' showing the forward power and SWR simultaneously, and you can call up the SWR and POWER on the KPA500's LCD if desired. That monitoring works to show the K3's output and SWR as well when the KPA500 is in standby. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Phil LaMarche Sent: Saturday, August 27, 2011 9:42 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] W2 I purchased a W2, used, that came with two modules. 200 and 2000. Do I really need to monitor the K3's output? Or, should I put the W2 at the output of the KPA500. Advice please. Phil Philip LaMarche LaMarche Enterprises, Inc mailto:p...@lamarcheenterprises.com p...@lamarcheenterprises.com http://www.lamarcheenterprises.com/ www.LaMarcheEnterprises.com 727-944-3226 727-937-8834 Fax 727-510-5038 Cell http://www.w9dvm.com/ www.w9dvm.com K3 # 1605 KPA500 # 029 P3 #1480 CCA 98-00827 CRA 1701 W9DVM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Daisy Chain
Under FIRMWARE UPDATES in the Owner's manual the text says Connect your KPA500 RS232(PC) port to your computer and launch the KPA Utility program. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Connecting the PC to the P3 and then the P3 to the K3 was recently discussed. When I look at the manual for the KPA 500 it shows the PC connected to the KPA 500 but only the AUX to the K3 even though there is a RS 232 connector marked (XCVR). So, can one chain the PC through the KPA 500 to the K3 the came way as with the P3 and K3? Can you chain all three together? if so in what order? If one has a KPA 500 and K3 it would be nice not to have to swap cables for doing updates etc. This does not seem to be covered in the KPA 500 manual but somehow seems to be implied by the conductor labeling. It only mentions connecting the (XCVR) connector to a Kenwood tranceiver. David K0LUM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K2 Alignment Part II
Hi Everyone! I am starting the second part of the K2 alignment. I went and redid the first part of the alignment because I tweaked R1 by accident. Some of the numbers came out different than the last time because I had more stuff on the board. I do have a question about the 4 MHz Oscillator Calibration: This may sound like a stupid question, but what am I supposed to be listening for on my receiver when I zero-beat to the crystal? I am hearing a tone, and it changes when I adjust C22, but I am not sure to what tone I need to adjust it to. Any clarification on this would be great! Thanks 73, David KC9EHQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Alignment Part II
Typically zero beat means getting the beat note down to zero, where you hear no tone. In the days of AM transmission, you'd hear the beat note between the other station and could get your transmitter onto the same frequency by keying your transmitter (at low power) with a spot function, and then adjust your transmitter VFO for the lowest possible beat note. If you were lucky and had a good audio system and a fine-grained stable VFO, as the note got really low you'd hear a rhythmic pulsing that you can adjust to very close to zero. In other more modern use with CW, you hear two tones and you need to line them up. If you're asked to zero beat with another station on CW, you want your transceiver side tone to match the other station's tone, and you want the transceiver side tone to be offset appropriately to make this happen. Many transceivers have a PITCH control to set the CW offset tone for user preference. Some advanced transceivers have a CW Spot function that adjusts the transceiver VFO to match the side tone, putting you on the right frequency as another CW signal. In SSB communications it's a little harder, you have to tune your VFO so that the other guy speech sounds natural. If you dont know the other guys' voice, you might tend to be off a few cycles. I can understand SSB signals at some distance from zero beat, and in the heat of a contest I might not tune very accurately. Fortunately many others can understand this as well. Some of us have more trouble than others matching two pitches. People who do this well scored high on the Navy Boot Camp Sonar aptitude test. Others of us are tone deaf and cannot discern the difference between two notes that don't differ by much. Dick -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David Dietrich Sent: Saturday, August 27, 2011 12:30 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K2 Alignment Part II Hi Everyone! I am starting the second part of the K2 alignment. I went and redid the first part of the alignment because I tweaked R1 by accident. Some of the numbers came out different than the last time because I had more stuff on the board. I do have a question about the 4 MHz Oscillator Calibration: This may sound like a stupid question, but what am I supposed to be listening for on my receiver when I zero-beat to the crystal? I am hearing a tone, and it changes when I adjust C22, but I am not sure to what tone I need to adjust it to. Any clarification on this would be great! Thanks 73, David KC9EHQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
Hear Hear! I love my K1! It has the seat of honor in the top pouch of my backpack and is my travel rig of choice! The K3 is the centerpiece of the shack, and the K2 lives in the bedroom when not contesting in the field. If I lost my K1, I'd buy and build another in a heart beat! On Sat, 27 Aug 2011, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote: We are still selling a good number of these each month. These are unique and timeless designs that have a lot of appeal. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K1 praise
My eleven-year-old K1 SN 175 is still my favorite QRP rig, including service as a backpack rig. For anyone considering the purchase of a new K1, there is one absolutely most-important decision to make: Order the LCD backlight! Even better would be for Elecraft to raise the K1 price a little and make the backlight standard. Trust me... you don't want to have to go through the backlight backfit process after the K1 is built...no fun at all! I waited years after the backlight was available, and I never guessed how useful it is and how little additional power it requires. Second most important decision: Get the four-band board. It has better RF filtering than the two-band board, plus twice the bands, of course. I hope to have a KX3 someday, but nothing would ever make me get rid of my K1 except the eternal dirt nap. :-) [That would make a great advertising quote from a satisfied customer.] Mike / KK5F __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
You can take my K1 when you pry it from my cold, dead fingers! 73, Rick Dettinger K7MW I hope to have a KX3 someday, but nothing would ever make me get rid of my K1 except the eternal dirt nap. :-) [That would make a great advertising quote from a satisfied customer.] Mike / KK5F __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
Rick Dettinger wrote: You can take my K1 when you pry it from my cold, dead fingers! Since 'Men In Black', we have to be more careful about that line: -- 73 from Ian GM3SEK http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
My XYL has been instructed to place my K1 in the box with me. Some time back, I made a video comparing the same signal from the same antenna as heard on all four of my Elecraft products. It was just a casual video. Nothing technical. I've gotten a surprising number of hits. It's a nine minute video but you only need to view the first 1:13 to appreciate the K1's competitive spirit. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hv_tGEKD0ds 73, Stan WB2LQF KX1 #2411K1#2994K2# 6980K3#5244 K9 #1 (Cocoa the Chihuahua) Everything is QRP, even the dog. On Sat, Aug 27, 2011 at 5:01 PM, Rick Dettinger wrote: You can take my K1 when you pry it from my cold, dead fingers! __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question...
This is exactly what I have wanted since the KX1. I own the FT817 and the battery issue is just that... an issue. With 6m SSB and all the low bands in the KX3, it fills all I could ever hope for in a portable, especially with the planned add-ins. Plug in units in the battery compartment could serve as additional add-ins to make greater flexibility for future updates which the user could purchase. I have enjoyed the portable operation of the FT-817 with the options of additional SSB filter and DSP along with the latest NIMH battery technology, but I would abandon this in a moment for the KX3 design when successfully implemented. Having 2 meter FM is not my requirement. I have a TH72d and TS2000 for playing around and the TH72d takes care of my VHF UHF needs as a portable station including APRS and Packet. 73, Bill K9YEQ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Wayne Burdick Sent: Friday, August 26, 2011 6:16 PM To: David Ferrington, M0XDF Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Batttery life question... On Aug 26, 2011, at 4:01 PM, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: ...might even be able to put the 100w PA in place of the battery Unfortunately, no. The KX3's normal low-pass filters are rated at 15 W, as is the ATU. The battery is very important; it makes the KX3 an all-in-one unit that you can quickly deploy in an emergency, take on a short hike, toss into a very small small corner of your suitcase, etc. It's an inherent part of the product. 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
Phil, I am semi-retired, used to be fully back in 2001, pre-911. I totally agree with your sentiments. I have built the K2 and all add0ns but the amp. I built the Kx1 and all add-ons. I have owned the K1 and all add-ons. I have several smaller kits, including the W1 and W2 watt meters. All I can say, none have disappointed me. It comes down to build, use, sell, build, use, sell. Etc. Now on to the KX3! 73, Bill K9YEQ -Original Message- Eric, You're selling them because I am buying them. I have the K3, P3, KX1 and a few of the min-kit things. My next is the K1 and then the KX3 if it is out by then. Oh, I plan on the KPA500 this Fall sometime so make sure you make one extra kit for me and the KAT500 of course when it is available. I will be done buying when I run out of money or when you guys quit the business -- whichever comes first. Keep up the good work. Oh, I plan on the K2 but probably after I retire as it is a bigger project. Maybe I should buy that now? 73, phil, k7PEH __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 praise
All my equipment is supposed to go to the grave with me. I have suggested she sell it. No... she is even suggesting selling the wire for scrap! :-) 73, Bill K9YEQ -Original Message- My XYL has been instructed to place my K1 in the box with me. On Sat, Aug 27, 2011 at 5:01 PM, Rick Dettinger wrote: You can take my K1 when you pry it from my cold, dead fingers! __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Good QRP practice?
Good Day Everyone, In a recent discussion concering KX3 battery life, Wayne N6KR mentioned: Transceive operating time from an internal battery will be determined by voltage or energy-density limitations of the 8 AA cells being used. You'd probably be transmitting something like 10% of the time (good QRP practice). I'm really new in amateur radio and even newer (if possible) in working QRP with my KX1 and working on my skill set. My question is why is a 9:1 listen to transmit ratio good QRP practice? Tnx es 73 John KK4BOB John Flynn Tallahassee, Florida USA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Good QRP practice?
Based on my own experiences in QRP, you need to be sure of what the other person's callsign is when using less than optimal antennas, so you need to listen to be sure you have things right; I missed making a contact at lunch a few weeks ago because I didn't catch the guy's call sign the first few times he gave it. Matthew Pitts N8OHU From: John Flynn gio.fl...@gmail.com To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, August 27, 2011 6:25 PM Subject: [Elecraft] Good QRP practice? Good Day Everyone, In a recent discussion concering KX3 battery life, Wayne N6KR mentioned: Transceive operating time from an internal battery will be determined by voltage or energy-density limitations of the 8 AA cells being used. You'd probably be transmitting something like 10% of the time (good QRP practice). I'm really new in amateur radio and even newer (if possible) in working QRP with my KX1 and working on my skill set. My question is why is a 9:1 listen to transmit ratio good QRP practice? Tnx es 73 John KK4BOB John Flynn Tallahassee, Florida USA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 filter setup
I have seen lots of posts on the filter setup on the K3 with regards to gain and also changing the filter value entered compared to the value of the filter itself. I just installed the general coverage unit in the main receiver along with a 6khz filter. This brought me back to the filter setup question. Just wanted to get some input from elecrafter's and their filter setting setup's. My K3 filter line up is a follows: Main 2.7Khz stock 5 pole crystal filter offset at -0.76 6Khz 8 pole inrad filter (I purchased this filter as the general coverage receiver is installed) 500hz 8 pole inrad filter 400hz 8 pole inrad filter 250hz 8 pole inrad filter Sub 2.7Khz 5 pole cystal filer offset at -0.90 500hz 8 pole inrad filter 400hz 8 pole inrad filter 250hz 8 pole inrad filter One last question.In the main receiver where the general coverage unit has been installed I added the 6khz filter. For some reason I installed the 6khz flter after the 2.7 on the K3 board. I really don't want to take the radio all apart but if the 6khz should be in slot 1 then I will. Mike VE3WDM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Good QRP practice?
That is no QRP problem, it is important whatever power you run to copy the other guy's callsign. ;-)) 73, Olli - DH8BQA - Original Message - From: Matthew Pitts daywalker_blade_2...@yahoo.com To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Sunday, August 28, 2011 12:32 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Good QRP practice? Based on my own experiences in QRP, you need to be sure of what the other person's callsign is when using less than optimal antennas, so you need to listen to be sure you have things right; I missed making a contact at lunch a few weeks ago because I didn't catch the guy's call sign the first few times he gave it. Matthew Pitts N8OHU __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Good QRP practice?
Good question John. I think Wayne was proposing a bottom line estimate from a somewhat more complex problem. There are a lot of variables to consider. Morse code is scaled in dot-times [DT]. Dots and inter-element spaces are 1 DT each. Dashes are 3 DT. Letter spaces are 3 DT, and word spaces are nominally 7 DT [I think I've got that right]. At any rate, if you are sending Morse code, all those spaces are receive time [and current drain] and only the key down times are TX drain. What that all means in terms of steady keying depends on what you are sending of course. Then there is the really big factor: When you choose to send something vs when you choose to listen. When you're running 5W to a possibly compromised antenna, you will be doing quite a bit of listening, finding the right station and right time to call. There's no reason to call the station if he's being called by a big gun, it just wastes your RF. The result is, your key is actually down [i.e. TX battery drain] in the general vicinity of 10%, give or take. Good QRP Practice may be a little rigid a phrase, you're free to use the ampere-hours in your battery any way you choose, but successful QRP operation does require more listening and timing than 1.5 KW to a 6 over 6 over 6 over 6 stack on 20 meters. If that's your station, you're pretty much the BGOTB [Big Guy On The Band], everyone hears you. 73, Fred K6DGW Auburn CA On 8/27/2011 3:25 PM, John Flynn wrote: I'm really new in amateur radio and even newer (if possible) in working QRP with my KX1 and working on my skill set. My question is why is a 9:1 listen to transmit ratio good QRP practice? __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Good QRP practice?
It's not a hard-and-fast rule, John, nor is it limited to QRP. Good operating practice is to listen more than talk. In a QSO you may talk as much as the other station, for a 50-50 ratio. If you're long-winded, you may exceed that, Hi! But, when looking for a contact, take the time to listen to what is going on around the band and especially on or near the frequency where you plan to transmit if preparing to call CQ. Then, after asking if the frequency is busy (send QRL? if using CW) and then calling CQ, listen far more than you send. Even though most people will call you on the same frequency nowadays, it often takes someone a while to 'tune up' on your frequency to call you. Some ops leave only a second or two between CQ's but it's usually more productive to allow more time between calls. My Ham experience goes back to the days when most Hams used crystal control and I keep the habit of tuning up and down a couple of kHz from my calling frequency after each CQ. Even today, I'll occasionally get a call from a crystal-controlled rig near my frequency, but not on it. That's especially true around the common QRP frequencies. (I usually move to his freq as soon as we hook up.) Years ago we often spoke of certain Alligator Operators - all mouth and no ears, Hi! They are still around. The bottom line is to have fun and behave as if you are at a party where a lot of conversations are going on. Now, contesting is another matter. Presumably the same rules apply but exchanges are going fast and furious. In reality, a lot of people get rude, stomping on other QSOs, calling without listening with their robo-stations, etc. Personally, I stay out of bar room brawls in town and contests on the Ham bands :-), but I know a lot of people have great fun with them. 73, Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Good Day Everyone, In a recent discussion concering KX3 battery life, Wayne N6KR mentioned: Transceive operating time from an internal battery will be determined by voltage or energy-density limitations of the 8 AA cells being used. You'd probably be transmitting something like 10% of the time (good QRP practice). I'm really new in amateur radio and even newer (if possible) in working QRP with my KX1 and working on my skill set. My question is why is a 9:1 listen to transmit ratio good QRP practice? Tnx es 73 John KK4BOB John Flynn Tallahassee, Florida USA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 OPER fault
I received Beta FW version 1.11 from another reflector user and I installed it in My KPA500. The Hi Pwr fault in OPER mode seems to have gone away! Hopefully this new FW will be openly available soon. Conact me if you have any questions. Tnx. Len __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB net announcement
The weekly Elecraft SSB net will meet tomorrow (8/28/11) at 1800Z on 14.3035 MHz +/- QRM. I will be net control from western Oregon, and we'll try relays to pull in the stations that I can't hear. See you there. 73, Phil, NS7P __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out
I am trying to temporarily use a 20 m Hamstick on my Outbacker tripod. The base I am using checks out fine with nothing attached. In other words, the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the pin on the UHF connector on the bottom of the base and is isolated from the tripod. When I connect a non-terminated coax to the base connector everything continues to check out as above. However, as soon as I connect the other end of the coax to ANT 1 of the K3, everything is shorted together (the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the tripod) and the KPA500 shows infinite SWR. The Hamstick folks couldn’t figure it out and HRO here in Phoenix was kind enough to exchange the Hamstick for another, with no effect. Any ideas and/or explanations? Thanks and 73, Bill N4IEZ / F4WAE __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out
Hi Bill, Just to be sure I understand, With the coax connected to the tripod, the antenna connected to the tripod, with the only connection left to connect would be the coax to the radio... if you measure across the coax there is no short? And there is conductivity from the pin to the antenna? Just making sure I understand, Thanks, --... ...-- Dale - WC7S in Wy Date: Sat, 27 Aug 2011 18:34:32 -0700 From: bdrob...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out I am trying to temporarily use a 20 m Hamstick on my Outbacker tripod. The base I am using checks out fine with nothing attached. In other words, the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the pin on the UHF connector on the bottom of the base and is isolated from the tripod. When I connect a non-terminated coax to the base connector everything continues to check out as above. However, as soon as I connect the other end of the coax to ANT 1 of the K3, everything is shorted together (the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the tripod) and the KPA500 shows infinite SWR. The Hamstick folks couldn’t figure it out and HRO here in Phoenix was kind enough to exchange the Hamstick for another, with no effect. Any ideas and/or explanations? Thanks and 73, Bill N4IEZ / F4WAE __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Alignment Part II
David, Bypass that - that initial 4 MHz Oscillator Test is just to make certain the 4 MHz oscillator is working. What you are doing is comparing the 4 MHz oscillator output to what the firmware thinks is a 4 MHz source. So as long as it is oscillating, the test will always pass. If calibration of the 4 MHz oscillator is your goal, and you have the K2 capable of receiving WWV (or some other station of known frequency), go to my website www.w3fpr.com and look at the K2 Dial Calibration article. The N6KR method will provide you with precise setting of C22 with no external equipment, and that method compensates for any variables in the various oscillators involved. The use of Spectrogram or other audio spectrum analyzer software to detect the tones transmitted by WWV is strongly recommended. Tuning to the standard station correctly is the key to success when using that procedure. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/27/2011 3:30 PM, David Dietrich wrote: Hi Everyone! I am starting the second part of the K2 alignment. I went and redid the first part of the alignment because I tweaked R1 by accident. Some of the numbers came out different than the last time because I had more stuff on the board. I do have a question about the 4 MHz Oscillator Calibration: This may sound like a stupid question, but what am I supposed to be listening for on my receiver when I zero-beat to the crystal? I am hearing a tone, and it changes when I adjust C22, but I am not sure to what tone I need to adjust it to. Any clarification on this would be great! Thanks 73, David KC9EHQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out
This sounds like a PL259 on one or the other end that is incorrectly dressed and soldered. I would guess something wrong in the PL259 that attaches to the K3. Before you throw the K3 in the drink, use a different piece of coax. All it takes is a very small gap that does not show up on an analyzer, but is arced across by 100 watts, or a short that makes contact when you bend it to get to the K3, or yada, yada, yada. Mechanical problems with coax, plugs, jumpers, cords and adapters, etc. are by far the most common problem with ham setups. 73, Guy. On Sat, Aug 27, 2011 at 9:44 PM, Dale Putnam daleput...@hotmail.com wrote: Hi Bill, Just to be sure I understand, With the coax connected to the tripod, the antenna connected to the tripod, with the only connection left to connect would be the coax to the radio... if you measure across the coax there is no short? And there is conductivity from the pin to the antenna? Just making sure I understand, Thanks, --... ...-- Dale - WC7S in Wy Date: Sat, 27 Aug 2011 18:34:32 -0700 From: bdrob...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out I am trying to temporarily use a 20 m Hamstick on my Outbacker tripod. The base I am using checks out fine with nothing attached. In other words, the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the pin on the UHF connector on the bottom of the base and is isolated from the tripod. When I connect a non-terminated coax to the base connector everything continues to check out as above. However, as soon as I connect the other end of the coax to ANT 1 of the K3, everything is shorted together (the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the tripod) and the KPA500 shows infinite SWR. The Hamstick folks couldn’t figure it out and HRO here in Phoenix was kind enough to exchange the Hamstick for another, with no effect. Any ideas and/or explanations? Thanks and 73, Bill N4IEZ / F4WAE __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out
Thanks Guy.The coax and connectors seem to check out OK, and I switched the coax with a brand new one and got the same result.Also, this coax worked fine with a Yaesu ATAS 120 antenna I sold (unfortunately) last weekend.73, Bill --- On Sun, 8/28/11, Guy Olinger K2AV olin...@bellsouth.net wrote: From: Guy Olinger K2AV olin...@bellsouth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out To: Dale Putnam daleput...@hotmail.com Cc: bdrob...@yahoo.com, elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Sunday, August 28, 2011, 3:57 AM This sounds like a PL259 on one or the other end that is incorrectly dressed and soldered. I would guess something wrong in the PL259 that attaches to the K3. Before you throw the K3 in the drink, use a different piece of coax. All it takes is a very small gap that does not show up on an analyzer, but is arced across by 100 watts, or a short that makes contact when you bend it to get to the K3, or yada, yada, yada. Mechanical problems with coax, plugs, jumpers, cords and adapters, etc. are by far the most common problem with ham setups. 73, Guy. On Sat, Aug 27, 2011 at 9:44 PM, Dale Putnam daleput...@hotmail.com wrote: Hi Bill, Just to be sure I understand, With the coax connected to the tripod, the antenna connected to the tripod, with the only connection left to connect would be the coax to the radio... if you measure across the coax there is no short? And there is conductivity from the pin to the antenna? Just making sure I understand, Thanks, --... ...-- Dale - WC7S in Wy Date: Sat, 27 Aug 2011 18:34:32 -0700 From: bdrob...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out I am trying to temporarily use a 20 m Hamstick on my Outbacker tripod. The base I am using checks out fine with nothing attached. In other words, the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the pin on the UHF connector on the bottom of the base and is isolated from the tripod. When I connect a non-terminated coax to the base connector everything continues to check out as above. However, as soon as I connect the other end of the coax to ANT 1 of the K3, everything is shorted together (the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the tripod) and the KPA500 shows infinite SWR. The Hamstick folks couldn’t figure it out and HRO here in Phoenix was kind enough to exchange the Hamstick for another, with no effect. Any ideas and/or explanations? Thanks and 73, Bill N4IEZ / F4WAE __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Announcement
Good Evening, Another week of summer weather. It is nice to finally have warm days and not so cool nights. Almost a month since I last needed to heat the house too. Looks like next week will have some rain and cold days but mostly it will be high 60s and sunny. Summer was late in arriving but it feels nice. Now the fire danger is rising until the rain. An inch of rain would be nice right now. Fire danger would go down and the berry crops would enjoy a shower. The later start time for the forty meter net worked well. This week the time for it will remain at 0100z. Remember the frequencies are just guidelines. The actual frequency depends upon whether I can hear anyone on the main frequency when I get started. If I did then I will move up or down by 0.5 kHz until I find an open frequency. My normal order for alternates is up 0.5 kHzz then down 0.5 kHz. If neither of those works then it is up 1 kHz and followed by down 1 kHz all from the original starting point. If anyone is interested in acting as a relay station on either net please email me. I will turn the net over to you for a few minutes so you can call areas in my skip zone. It sure would prove helpful to those I cannot reach directly. Please join us tomorrow afternoon and evening. 1) Hail signs (first letter or two of the suffix of your call) 2) NCS help (as well as QSP/QNP relay help) Sunday 2200z (Sunday 3 PM PDT) 14050 kHz Monday 0100z (Sunday 6 PM PDT) 7045 kHz Stay well, Kevin. KD5ONS - __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out
Bill, What is the results if you connect the antenna to the K3 (without the KPA500). Even though it may show a DC short, that may be only at the DC measurement. At RF, what is the impedance. An antenna analyzer measurement may be helpful in determining the actual impedance at frequency. Bottom line - if the antenna analyzer indicates something near 50 ohms resistive, either the K3 or the KPA500 should operate into it with no problem. Look for coax connections that are not tight - finger tight is not good enough for UHF connectors. What will be OK at low power levels may not be OK when the power is increased to 100 or 500 watts. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/27/2011 9:34 PM, Bill Drobnes wrote: I am trying to temporarily use a 20 m Hamstick on my Outbacker tripod. The base I am using checks out fine with nothing attached. In other words, the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the pin on the UHF connector on the bottom of the base and is isolated from the tripod. When I connect a non-terminated coax to the base connector everything continues to check out as above. However, as soon as I connect the other end of the coax to ANT 1 of the K3, everything is shorted together (the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the tripod) and the KPA500 shows infinite SWR. The Hamstick folks couldn’t figure it out and HRO here in Phoenix was kind enough to exchange the Hamstick for another, with no effect. Any ideas and/or explanations? Thanks and 73, Bill N4IEZ / F4WAE __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out
Have you checked it with an antenna analyzer like an MFJ? That will show where your setup is resonant. Is the tripod sitting on grass or concrete?? It must be on grass or dirt to work properly. 73, Ted W4NZ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net]On Behalf Of Bill Drobnes Sent: Saturday, August 27, 2011 10:06 PM To: Dale Putnam; Guy Olinger K2AV Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out Thanks Guy.The coax and connectors seem to check out OK, and I switched the coax with a brand new one and got the same result.Also, this coax worked fine with a Yaesu ATAS 120 antenna I sold (unfortunately) last weekend.73, Bill --- On Sun, 8/28/11, Guy Olinger K2AV olin...@bellsouth.net wrote: From: Guy Olinger K2AV olin...@bellsouth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out To: Dale Putnam daleput...@hotmail.com Cc: bdrob...@yahoo.com, elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Sunday, August 28, 2011, 3:57 AM This sounds like a PL259 on one or the other end that is incorrectly dressed and soldered. I would guess something wrong in the PL259 that attaches to the K3. Before you throw the K3 in the drink, use a different piece of coax. All it takes is a very small gap that does not show up on an analyzer, but is arced across by 100 watts, or a short that makes contact when you bend it to get to the K3, or yada, yada, yada. Mechanical problems with coax, plugs, jumpers, cords and adapters, etc. are by far the most common problem with ham setups. 73, Guy. On Sat, Aug 27, 2011 at 9:44 PM, Dale Putnam daleput...@hotmail.com wrote: Hi Bill, Just to be sure I understand, With the coax connected to the tripod, the antenna connected to the tripod, with the only connection left to connect would be the coax to the radio... if you measure across the coax there is no short? And there is conductivity from the pin to the antenna? Just making sure I understand, Thanks, --... ...-- Dale - WC7S in Wy Date: Sat, 27 Aug 2011 18:34:32 -0700 From: bdrob...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] An Antenna Problem I Can't Figure Out I am trying to temporarily use a 20 m Hamstick on my Outbacker tripod. The base I am using checks out fine with nothing attached. In other words, the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the pin on the UHF connector on the bottom of the base and is isolated from the tripod. When I connect a non-terminated coax to the base connector everything continues to check out as above. However, as soon as I connect the other end of the coax to ANT 1 of the K3, everything is shorted together (the top where the antenna screws in shorts with the tripod) and the KPA500 shows infinite SWR. The Hamstick folks couldn’t figure it out and HRO here in Phoenix was kind enough to exchange the Hamstick for another, with no effect. Any ideas and/or explanations? Thanks and 73, Bill N4IEZ / F4WAE __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
