Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Nate Bargmann]

* On 2023 15 Apr 12:14 -0500, Steve Zabarnick wrote:
> Now that I have installed the recently received KSYN3A upgrade in my K3, I
> am wondering what improvements to expect? I have seen test data on this
> list showing improved transmit performance and anecdotal reports on
> improved receive performance. In an initial quick listening session on cw
> and FT8, I don't hear any dramatic changes in receive performance.
> 
> The KSYN3A upgrade is a significant investment (over $400 when including
> shipping and tax) and will likely increase the resale value of the radio
> somewhat, but as a casual operator should I expect to experience any
> noticeable performance improvements?

For me my Morse copy speed increased.  It had nothing to do with my gray
matter either!  I think the new synth just made the CW audio a bit
smoother to my ears.  A couple of years later when I bought the
subreceiver I didn't have to also order the main synth.

73, Nate, N0NB

-- 
"The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all
possible worlds.  The pessimist fears this is true."
Web: https://www.n0nb.us
Projects: https://github.com/N0NB
GPG fingerprint: 82D6 4F6B 0E67 CD41 F689 BBA6 FB2C 5130 D55A 8819

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Dave (NK7Z)]

Hi Steve,

See:

https://www.nk7z.net/k3/

for some actual test data, with plots of new vs. old synths...  You will 
need to decide if you are happy with your purchase.


73, and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL Technical Specialist, RFI
ARRL Asst. Director, NW Division, Technical Resources

On 4/15/23 10:13, Steve Zabarnick wrote:

Now that I have installed the recently received KSYN3A upgrade in my K3, I
am wondering what improvements to expect? I have seen test data on this
list showing improved transmit performance and anecdotal reports on
improved receive performance. In an initial quick listening session on cw
and FT8, I don't hear any dramatic changes in receive performance.

The KSYN3A upgrade is a significant investment (over $400 when including
shipping and tax) and will likely increase the resale value of the radio
somewhat, but as a casual operator should I expect to experience any
noticeable performance improvements?

Steve N9SZ


On Fri, Apr 14, 2023 at 10:34 AM Steve Zabarnick 
wrote:


After just about two years from my original order, I finally received the
upgraded K3 synthesis board (KSYN3AUPGD). Installation will take place this
weekend and I'm hoping for the best.

Steve N9SZ


On Thu, Feb 2, 2023 at 9:47 AM Steve Zabarnick 
wrote:


It has been over 8 weeks since Eric announced that most of the long
delayed K3 options would be available in 6 to 8 weeks, and "should ship
close to these dates ranges if there are no new
parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays."

I have been patiently waiting for the upgraded synthesizer for my K3 and
made a 50% payment two years ago.

Any update on this? It would be nice to have some info on whether these
upgrades are being delayed once again or about to ship as promised.

Steve N9SZ




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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Ted Edwards W3TB]

I had to buy two of the newer synthesizers when I added the dual receiver
after they had stopped making the older synthesizer boards.

I can’t believe that my K3 is now 10 years old and how much I still love
it. . De W3TB

On Sat, Apr 15, 2023 at 20:44 David Gilbert  wrote:

>
>
> Although some will no doubt disagree, I think the short answer for you
> as a casual op is "no" ... depending, of course, on just how "casual"
> you consider yourself to be.
>
> The new synths do indeed give considerably better performance, though
> ... you just might not notice them if you are a casual operator.  The
> new synths have much better performance for multiple closely-spaced CW
> signals within the audio passband (which avoids the mush created by the
> old synths), and if you have two receivers the local oscillator signals
> remain sync'd as you tune.   The phase noise is better with the new synths.
>
> Here is a better report:
>
> https://www.ok2kkw.com/xyz/om3w/qst_ksyn3a_revised.pdf
>
> Personally, I think it was a safe bet to switch to the new synths if you
> ever plan to sell the rig.
>
> 73,
> Dave   AB7E
>
>
> On 4/15/2023 10:13 AM, Steve Zabarnick wrote:
> > Now that I have installed the recently received KSYN3A upgrade in my K3,
> I
> > am wondering what improvements to expect? I have seen test data on this
> > list showing improved transmit performance and anecdotal reports on
> > improved receive performance. In an initial quick listening session on cw
> > and FT8, I don't hear any dramatic changes in receive performance.
> >
> > The KSYN3A upgrade is a significant investment (over $400 when including
> > shipping and tax) and will likely increase the resale value of the radio
> > somewhat, but as a casual operator should I expect to experience any
> > noticeable performance improvements?
> >
> > Steve N9SZ
> >
> >
>
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-- 
73 de Ted Edwards, W3TB and GØPWW

and thinking about operating CW:
"Do today what others won't,
so you can do tomorrow what others can't."
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[David Gilbert]

Although some will no doubt disagree, I think the short answer for you 
as a casual op is "no" ... depending, of course, on just how "casual" 
you consider yourself to be.


The new synths do indeed give considerably better performance, though 
... you just might not notice them if you are a casual operator.  The 
new synths have much better performance for multiple closely-spaced CW 
signals within the audio passband (which avoids the mush created by the 
old synths), and if you have two receivers the local oscillator signals 
remain sync'd as you tune.   The phase noise is better with the new synths.


Here is a better report:

https://www.ok2kkw.com/xyz/om3w/qst_ksyn3a_revised.pdf

Personally, I think it was a safe bet to switch to the new synths if you 
ever plan to sell the rig.


73,
Dave   AB7E


On 4/15/2023 10:13 AM, Steve Zabarnick wrote:

Now that I have installed the recently received KSYN3A upgrade in my K3, I
am wondering what improvements to expect? I have seen test data on this
list showing improved transmit performance and anecdotal reports on
improved receive performance. In an initial quick listening session on cw
and FT8, I don't hear any dramatic changes in receive performance.

The KSYN3A upgrade is a significant investment (over $400 when including
shipping and tax) and will likely increase the resale value of the radio
somewhat, but as a casual operator should I expect to experience any
noticeable performance improvements?

Steve N9SZ




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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Steve Zabarnick]

Now that I have installed the recently received KSYN3A upgrade in my K3, I
am wondering what improvements to expect? I have seen test data on this
list showing improved transmit performance and anecdotal reports on
improved receive performance. In an initial quick listening session on cw
and FT8, I don't hear any dramatic changes in receive performance.

The KSYN3A upgrade is a significant investment (over $400 when including
shipping and tax) and will likely increase the resale value of the radio
somewhat, but as a casual operator should I expect to experience any
noticeable performance improvements?

Steve N9SZ


On Fri, Apr 14, 2023 at 10:34 AM Steve Zabarnick 
wrote:

> After just about two years from my original order, I finally received the
> upgraded K3 synthesis board (KSYN3AUPGD). Installation will take place this
> weekend and I'm hoping for the best.
>
> Steve N9SZ
>
>
> On Thu, Feb 2, 2023 at 9:47 AM Steve Zabarnick 
> wrote:
>
>> It has been over 8 weeks since Eric announced that most of the long
>> delayed K3 options would be available in 6 to 8 weeks, and "should ship
>> close to these dates ranges if there are no new
>> parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays."
>>
>> I have been patiently waiting for the upgraded synthesizer for my K3 and
>> made a 50% payment two years ago.
>>
>> Any update on this? It would be nice to have some info on whether these
>> upgrades are being delayed once again or about to ship as promised.
>>
>> Steve N9SZ
>>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Clark Macaulay]

I received the KIO3BUPKT_KIO3B, too.

I vacillated on ordering this upgrade at first as the original KIO3B was
working fine with my hardware RS-232 interface in the shack computer.  The
embedded sound card wasn't of much interest as digital modes are not of
much interest either.  I may keep the upgrade in the box until (and if) my
original card fails.

On Fri, Apr 14, 2023 at 10:35 AM Steve Zabarnick 
wrote:

> After just about two years from my original order, I finally received the
> upgraded K3 synthesis board (KSYN3AUPGD). Installation will take place this
> weekend and I'm hoping for the best.
>
> Steve N9SZ
>
>
> On Thu, Feb 2, 2023 at 9:47 AM Steve Zabarnick 
> wrote:
>
> > It has been over 8 weeks since Eric announced that most of the long
> > delayed K3 options would be available in 6 to 8 weeks, and "should ship
> > close to these dates ranges if there are no new
> > parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays."
> >
> > I have been patiently waiting for the upgraded synthesizer for my K3 and
> > made a 50% payment two years ago.
> >
> > Any update on this? It would be nice to have some info on whether these
> > upgrades are being delayed once again or about to ship as promised.
> >
> > Steve N9SZ
> >
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-- 
73,

Clark, WU4B
Little Pistol With Wires + HexBeam
Elecraft K2 & K3
QRPARCI #10815
SKCC #3892
NAQCC #5055
CWOPS #1869
Collins Collectors #AC90-12432
Southeastern DX Club 
North Georgia QRP Club 


*"It is vain to do with more what can be done with less."*
*Attributed to *William of Occam (1288 AD - 1348 AD)
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Richard Hill]

I also received my KSYNAUPGD_KSYN3A board kit and my KIO3BUPKT_KIO3B board
kit.
I still have a KXV3 upgrade kit on order.

Rich
NU6T

On Fri, Apr 14, 2023 at 7:35 AM Steve Zabarnick  wrote:

> After just about two years from my original order, I finally received the
> upgraded K3 synthesis board (KSYN3AUPGD). Installation will take place this
> weekend and I'm hoping for the best.
>
> Steve N9SZ
>
>
> On Thu, Feb 2, 2023 at 9:47 AM Steve Zabarnick 
> wrote:
>
> > It has been over 8 weeks since Eric announced that most of the long
> > delayed K3 options would be available in 6 to 8 weeks, and "should ship
> > close to these dates ranges if there are no new
> > parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays."
> >
> > I have been patiently waiting for the upgraded synthesizer for my K3 and
> > made a 50% payment two years ago.
> >
> > Any update on this? It would be nice to have some info on whether these
> > upgrades are being delayed once again or about to ship as promised.
> >
> > Steve N9SZ
> >
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-- 
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Steve Zabarnick]

After just about two years from my original order, I finally received the
upgraded K3 synthesis board (KSYN3AUPGD). Installation will take place this
weekend and I'm hoping for the best.

Steve N9SZ


On Thu, Feb 2, 2023 at 9:47 AM Steve Zabarnick  wrote:

> It has been over 8 weeks since Eric announced that most of the long
> delayed K3 options would be available in 6 to 8 weeks, and "should ship
> close to these dates ranges if there are no new
> parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays."
>
> I have been patiently waiting for the upgraded synthesizer for my K3 and
> made a 50% payment two years ago.
>
> Any update on this? It would be nice to have some info on whether these
> upgrades are being delayed once again or about to ship as promised.
>
> Steve N9SZ
>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Chris Cox, N0UK]

I still haven’t received contact yet about the items I had ordered in April 
2020 other than the original purchase confirmation.

I had ordered both a new synthesizer upgrade and a general coverage bandpass 
filter.

Could the delay in hearing anything be waiting on both kits to become available 
or should I have heard about the KSYN3A already?
 
Chris Cox, N0UK
chr...@chris.org
https://www.credly.com/go/IR77aRbH2rFDdOiymuxu2w



> On Feb 28, 2023, at 14:53, Pete Smith N4ZR  wrote:
> 
> Well, for what it's worth, I'm one of those waiting 2+years for an update 
> kit, and a week ago I got an e-mail from Elecraft telling me that it would be 
> shipping in 5-7 days.  I don't know if some are ready but not others.  I 
> reported this on this reflector at the time.
> 
> 73, Pete N4ZR
> 
> On 2/28/2023 3:11 PM, Lee Hiers wrote:
>> On Thu, Feb 16, 2023 at 12:48 PM Wayne Burdick  wrote:
>> 
>> 
>>> Eric may want to elaborate.
>>> 
>> Apparently not.
>> 
>> Consider we're 12 weeks into a "6-8 weeks" window on some of these items.
>> That's 4 to 6 weeks past due with no notice and almost two weeks after
>> Wayne addressed it at all - in response to queries about why nothing has
>> been said.
>> 
>> Not to mention the ~2 year wait already endured.  I know...Covid, supply
>> chain, blah, blah.  That does not absolve Elecraft of communicating with
>> its customers.
>> 
>> Lee, AA4GA
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Pete Smith N4ZR]

Well, for what it's worth, I'm one of those waiting 2+years for an 
update kit, and a week ago I got an e-mail from Elecraft telling me that 
it would be shipping in 5-7 days.  I don't know if some are ready but 
not others.  I reported this on this reflector at the time.


73, Pete N4ZR

On 2/28/2023 3:11 PM, Lee Hiers wrote:

On Thu, Feb 16, 2023 at 12:48 PM Wayne Burdick  wrote:



Eric may want to elaborate.


Apparently not.

Consider we're 12 weeks into a "6-8 weeks" window on some of these items.
That's 4 to 6 weeks past due with no notice and almost two weeks after
Wayne addressed it at all - in response to queries about why nothing has
been said.

Not to mention the ~2 year wait already endured.  I know...Covid, supply
chain, blah, blah.  That does not absolve Elecraft of communicating with
its customers.

Lee, AA4GA
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Lee Hiers]

On Thu, Feb 16, 2023 at 12:48 PM Wayne Burdick  wrote:


> Eric may want to elaborate.
>

Apparently not.

Consider we're 12 weeks into a "6-8 weeks" window on some of these items.
That's 4 to 6 weeks past due with no notice and almost two weeks after
Wayne addressed it at all - in response to queries about why nothing has
been said.

Not to mention the ~2 year wait already endured.  I know...Covid, supply
chain, blah, blah.  That does not absolve Elecraft of communicating with
its customers.

Lee, AA4GA
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Wayne Burdick]

Gary,

Our assembly house got overloaded, delaying our modules. But I understand that 
some of them may have just been delivered (finally!). We would need to then do 
full testing. 

Eric may want to elaborate.

73,
Wayne
N6KR


> On Feb 15, 2023, at 1:45 PM, n6...@outlook.com wrote:
> 
> Eric,
> 
> It has been almost 11 weeks since your last K3 & K3S Options Update (shown 
> below). I have several option kits on order but I haven't heard anything 
> about them in the past 11 weeks so would you please update us?
> 
> Thank you,
> 
> Gary R.
> 
> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net  on 
> behalf of Eric Swartz 
> Sent: Friday, December 2, 2022 4:16 PM
> To: Elecraft list 
> Subject: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)
> 
> I apologize for the delay getting this info out to everyone. (See my final
> comments below after the status section for more info on what has caused
> much of the delay.)
> 
> First - The current K3 & K3S option status. The following boards are now in
> process, and should ship close to these dates ranges if there are no new
> parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays.
> 
> P3TXMON  6-8 weeks
> K3EXREF  8 weeks
> KAT3A:  8 weeks
> KDVR3  8 weeks
> KPA3A6-8 weeks
> KIO3B8-9 weeks
> KSYN3A8 weeks
> KBPF3A8 weeks
> KXV3B   6-8 weeks
> 
> K144XV and K144RFLK   7-10 days
> We've completed building an additional batch of K144XV 2M options and
> we're  finishing up the matching K144RFLK lock boards, which lock the
> K144XV's frequency to the K3's reference oscillator.
> We'll be contacting the remaining customers for these two items in order to
> confirm shipping information (and collect the other half of the funds due
> for shipping and those who made a half deposit.)
> 
> ---
> 
> Remaining 3 Last time Buy items:
> 
> P3: Still seeing long parts delays from Analog devices and Microchip.
> 
> P3SVGA: Still seeing long parts delays from Intel (FPGA) and Microchip (uC).
> 
> K3/0 Mini: Microchip (uC) delays plus qualifying second sources on several
> other parts. We are also evaluating our demo stock of  K3/0 Minis to see if
> that can help with regular orders or our wait-list orders.
> 
> We will update everyone on these last three items as we get new information.
> 
> 
> General comments:
> We've been navigating a wide range of parts and manufacturing issues these
> past months. The K3 Options suffered in focus as we first had to keep our
> primary product lines rolling out the door to you. (K4s, KX-Line, Amps
> (100, 500 and 1500W) etc.) We've been successful sourcing parts for these
> primary products and keeping them shipping :-) , but its taken way more
> focus and effort that anyone expected..
> 
> We've also had to contend with one of our key circuit board assembly
> subcontractors becoming unavailable after being sold to another company.
> (All of our boards are built in the U.S.) That resulted in our other
> assembly subcontractors becoming overloaded. Fortunately we have now
> qualified and brought on-line several new U.S. circuit board assembly
> companies with excellent results. In addition to smoothing our regular
> production, this has made it possible to get our focus back on the K3
> Options.
> 
> We will be posting updates for these products as they each get closer to
> shipping.
> 
> Thank you again for your patience.
> 
> 73,
> 
> 
> Eric   WA6HHQ
> *elecraft.com <http://elecraft.com>*
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[n6...@outlook.com]

Eric,

It has been almost 11 weeks since your last K3 & K3S Options Update (shown 
below). I have several option kits on order but I haven't heard anything about 
them in the past 11 weeks so would you please update us?

Thank you,

Gary R.

From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net  on 
behalf of Eric Swartz 
Sent: Friday, December 2, 2022 4:16 PM
To: Elecraft list 
Subject: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

I apologize for the delay getting this info out to everyone. (See my final
comments below after the status section for more info on what has caused
much of the delay.)

First - The current K3 & K3S option status. The following boards are now in
process, and should ship close to these dates ranges if there are no new
parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays.

P3TXMON  6-8 weeks
K3EXREF  8 weeks
KAT3A:  8 weeks
KDVR3  8 weeks
KPA3A6-8 weeks
KIO3B8-9 weeks
KSYN3A8 weeks
KBPF3A8 weeks
KXV3B   6-8 weeks

K144XV and K144RFLK   7-10 days
We've completed building an additional batch of K144XV 2M options and
we're  finishing up the matching K144RFLK lock boards, which lock the
K144XV's frequency to the K3's reference oscillator.
We'll be contacting the remaining customers for these two items in order to
confirm shipping information (and collect the other half of the funds due
for shipping and those who made a half deposit.)

---

Remaining 3 Last time Buy items:

P3: Still seeing long parts delays from Analog devices and Microchip.

P3SVGA: Still seeing long parts delays from Intel (FPGA) and Microchip (uC).

K3/0 Mini: Microchip (uC) delays plus qualifying second sources on several
other parts. We are also evaluating our demo stock of  K3/0 Minis to see if
that can help with regular orders or our wait-list orders.

We will update everyone on these last three items as we get new information.


General comments:
We've been navigating a wide range of parts and manufacturing issues these
past months. The K3 Options suffered in focus as we first had to keep our
primary product lines rolling out the door to you. (K4s, KX-Line, Amps
(100, 500 and 1500W) etc.) We've been successful sourcing parts for these
primary products and keeping them shipping :-) , but its taken way more
focus and effort that anyone expected..

We've also had to contend with one of our key circuit board assembly
subcontractors becoming unavailable after being sold to another company.
(All of our boards are built in the U.S.) That resulted in our other
assembly subcontractors becoming overloaded. Fortunately we have now
qualified and brought on-line several new U.S. circuit board assembly
companies with excellent results. In addition to smoothing our regular
production, this has made it possible to get our focus back on the K3
Options.

We will be posting updates for these products as they each get closer to
shipping.

Thank you again for your patience.

73,


Eric   WA6HHQ
*elecraft.com <http://elecraft.com>*
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Steve Zabarnick]

It has been over 8 weeks since Eric announced that most of the long delayed
K3 options would be available in 6 to 8 weeks, and "should ship close to
these dates ranges if there are no new
parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays."

I have been patiently waiting for the upgraded synthesizer for my K3 and
made a 50% payment two years ago.

Any update on this? It would be nice to have some info on whether these
upgrades are being delayed once again or about to ship as promised.

Steve N9SZ
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update,, (12/02/2022

[Wes]

Although I've returned to Kenwood gear, I ran a couple of SDR-IQs for years as a 
panadapters on both a K3 and a K3S using SpectraVue and VSPE for port sharing.  
The SDR-IQ will click a couple of times at boot up but never after that.  The 
TS-890 I use now has a beautiful display so I don't need the SDR there but I 
still use one in conjunction with my back-up TS-590SG, where it also performs 
flawlessly.


Wes  N7WS

ps. I wish SpectraVue would run my Perseus.

 On 12/6/2022 5:33 PM, Ed Cole wrote:

Well, I found the cause of the clicking (but not what is clicking).

I use two almost identical computers (DELL Inspiron desk tops). One is for 
general Internet use, e-mail, etc.  the other is dedicated to ham radio sw.  
The K3 is connected to the later one. So I decided to try a different USB port 
(4 ports on back, 2 on front) and the clicking stopped.  I had disconnected a 
USB cable to do this.  When I reconnected it the clicking started back up.


That cable goes to my SDR-IQ receiver.  Apparently the two radios are 
interacting (maybe trying to connect to the same port?). Anyway, simple 
solution is to run SDR-IQ on computer A and K3 on computer B.  Maybe I will 
explore this deeper at a later time.


This was not the start-up port testing that windows does.  This was non-stop 
clicking as long as K3 was connected (wether powered On or OFF).  Obvious it 
was computer generated as it stopped if computer shut-down or USB cable 
disconnected from K3.


curious that the clicking appeared to not interfere with K3 operation or 
running computer sw (like wsjt-x).


we can close this topic.

Ed -KL7UW


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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update,, (12/02/2022

[Ed Cole]

Well, I found the cause of the clicking (but not what is clicking).

I use two almost identical computers (DELL Inspiron desk tops).  One is 
for general Internet use, e-mail, etc.  the other is dedicated to ham 
radio sw.  The K3 is connected to the later one.  So I decided to try a 
different USB port (4 ports on back, 2 on front) and the clicking 
stopped.  I had disconnected a USB cable to do this.  When I reconnected 
it the clicking started back up.


That cable goes to my SDR-IQ receiver.  Apparently the two radios are 
interacting (maybe trying to connect to the same port?).  Anyway, simple 
solution is to run SDR-IQ on computer A and K3 on computer B.  Maybe I 
will explore this deeper at a later time.


This was not the start-up port testing that windows does.  This was 
non-stop clicking as long as K3 was connected (wether powered On or 
OFF).  Obvious it was computer generated as it stopped if computer 
shut-down or USB cable disconnected from K3.


curious that the clicking appeared to not interfere with K3 operation or 
running computer sw (like wsjt-x).


we can close this topic.

Ed -KL7UW
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update, (12/02/2022)

[Gary K9GS]

I think it would be great if someone would write an app to do this.While you're 
at it might as well fix the USB port sleeping problem too.73,Gary K9GS
 Original message From: Rick NK7I  Date: 
12/5/22  1:04 PM  (GMT-06:00) To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: 
[Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update, (12/02/2022) While this 
article is for the K4, the exact same should be done for the K3 to stop 
accidental keying during boot up of the OS.I suggest that you do this for ALL 
of your USB ports and while you're there, also defeat (turn off, uncheck) power 
savings mode (once turned off, it won't restart until the next reboot, negating 
it's value to less than zero), again on ALL of your USB devices (hubs, ports 
etc).73,Rick nk7iUse Windows Device Manager (run devmgmt.msc) to change the 
Advanced properties of both of the K4 FTDI virtual serial ports: Uncheck Serial 
Enumeration Check Disable Modem Control At Startup Details and rationale here, 
with screenshots: https://bit.ly/FTDItipOn 12/5/2022 10:53 AM, Dave New, N8SBE 
wrote:> Ed,>> Likely the 'clicking' you are hearing is the PC initializing the 
USB > ports on boot up.> If you watch closely, you will see the K3 PTT/XMIT 
come on a few times > during the computer boot up.>> It's harmless, but 
annoying, although if I recall correctly, on CW it > actually ends up sending a 
carrier.>> There was a firmware update for the K3/K3S that makes it ignore 
those > computer PTT by leaving the VOX turned> off on CW until you transmit 
something (not from the computer). This > happens if you power cycle> the K3 
before turning on the computer.>> Of course, you could just turn off the K3 and 
leave it off until the > computer finishes booting.>> I don't have an 
explanation as to why moving the USB cable to the > front ports seemingly has> 
stopped the issue.  Perhaps you just didn't happen to trigger the > issue (see 
above)?>> Hope that helps,>> -- Dave, N8SBE>> On 2022-12-04 16:24, Ed Cole 
wrote:>> Nice to hear about.>>>> I contacted sales@elecraft regarding getting 
on the KI03B list (more>> than a year ago) and was told, at that time I would 
be added.>>>> I have the KI03A (original with my K3) which Elecraft repaired 
about>> two years ago and has worked well, so far.  I decided I should have a>> 
backup so ordered the B board (A NLA).>>>> But not being one of the original 
list, but an add-on, I wonder if>> inventory will be sufficient to fill my 
order?>>>> I encountered a strange phenomena, as the K3 would constantly 
click>> whenever the computer I/F cable (from Elecraft) was connected and>> 
computer turned on.  I have 4 USB ports on rear of computer and 2 on>> front.  
Moving to a front USB connector ceased the clicking. BTW the>> clicking appears 
not to affect the K3 operation (port uses Com5).>>>> I use my K3 on FT8 and for 
eme (JT65 or Q65), so very important the>> computer I/F works correctly. B 
version uses direct USB/USB interface>> so might not be an issue.>>>> 73, Ed - 
KL7UW> __> 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: 
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update, (12/02/2022)

[Rick NK7I]

While this article is for the K4, the exact same should be done for the 
K3 to stop accidental keying during boot up of the OS.


I suggest that you do this for ALL of your USB ports and while you're 
there, also defeat (turn off, uncheck) power savings mode (once turned 
off, it won't restart until the next reboot, negating it's value to less 
than zero), again on ALL of your USB devices (hubs, ports etc).


73,
Rick nk7i


Use Windows Device Manager (run devmgmt.msc) to change the Advanced 
properties of both of the K4 FTDI virtual serial ports: Uncheck Serial 
Enumeration Check Disable Modem Control At Startup Details and rationale 
here, with screenshots: https://bit.ly/FTDItip




On 12/5/2022 10:53 AM, Dave New, N8SBE wrote:

Ed,

Likely the 'clicking' you are hearing is the PC initializing the USB 
ports on boot up.
If you watch closely, you will see the K3 PTT/XMIT come on a few times 
during the computer boot up.


It's harmless, but annoying, although if I recall correctly, on CW it 
actually ends up sending a carrier.


There was a firmware update for the K3/K3S that makes it ignore those 
computer PTT by leaving the VOX turned
off on CW until you transmit something (not from the computer). This 
happens if you power cycle

the K3 before turning on the computer.

Of course, you could just turn off the K3 and leave it off until the 
computer finishes booting.


I don't have an explanation as to why moving the USB cable to the 
front ports seemingly has
stopped the issue.  Perhaps you just didn't happen to trigger the 
issue (see above)?


Hope that helps,

-- Dave, N8SBE

On 2022-12-04 16:24, Ed Cole wrote:

Nice to hear about.

I contacted sales@elecraft regarding getting on the KI03B list (more
than a year ago) and was told, at that time I would be added.

I have the KI03A (original with my K3) which Elecraft repaired about
two years ago and has worked well, so far.  I decided I should have a
backup so ordered the B board (A NLA).

But not being one of the original list, but an add-on, I wonder if
inventory will be sufficient to fill my order?

I encountered a strange phenomena, as the K3 would constantly click
whenever the computer I/F cable (from Elecraft) was connected and
computer turned on.  I have 4 USB ports on rear of computer and 2 on
front.  Moving to a front USB connector ceased the clicking. BTW the
clicking appears not to affect the K3 operation (port uses Com5).

I use my K3 on FT8 and for eme (JT65 or Q65), so very important the
computer I/F works correctly. B version uses direct USB/USB interface
so might not be an issue.

73, Ed - KL7UW

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update, (12/02/2022)

[Dave New, N8SBE]

Ed,

Likely the 'clicking' you are hearing is the PC initializing the USB 
ports on boot up.
If you watch closely, you will see the K3 PTT/XMIT come on a few times 
during the computer boot up.


It's harmless, but annoying, although if I recall correctly, on CW it 
actually ends up sending a carrier.


There was a firmware update for the K3/K3S that makes it ignore those 
computer PTT by leaving the VOX turned
off on CW until you transmit something (not from the computer).  This 
happens if you power cycle

the K3 before turning on the computer.

Of course, you could just turn off the K3 and leave it off until the 
computer finishes booting.


I don't have an explanation as to why moving the USB cable to the front 
ports seemingly has
stopped the issue.  Perhaps you just didn't happen to trigger the issue 
(see above)?


Hope that helps,

-- Dave, N8SBE

On 2022-12-04 16:24, Ed Cole wrote:

Nice to hear about.

I contacted sales@elecraft regarding getting on the KI03B list (more
than a year ago) and was told, at that time I would be added.

I have the KI03A (original with my K3) which Elecraft repaired about
two years ago and has worked well, so far.  I decided I should have a
backup so ordered the B board (A NLA).

But not being one of the original list, but an add-on, I wonder if
inventory will be sufficient to fill my order?

I encountered a strange phenomena, as the K3 would constantly click
whenever the computer I/F cable (from Elecraft) was connected and
computer turned on.  I have 4 USB ports on rear of computer and 2 on
front.  Moving to a front USB connector ceased the clicking.  BTW the
clicking appears not to affect the K3 operation (port uses Com5).

I use my K3 on FT8 and for eme (JT65 or Q65), so very important the
computer I/F works correctly. B version uses direct USB/USB interface
so might not be an issue.

73, Ed - KL7UW

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update, (12/02/2022)

[Ed Cole]

Nice to hear about.

I contacted sales@elecraft regarding getting on the KI03B list (more 
than a year ago) and was told, at that time I would be added.


I have the KI03A (original with my K3) which Elecraft repaired about two 
years ago and has worked well, so far.  I decided I should have a backup 
so ordered the B board (A NLA).


But not being one of the original list, but an add-on, I wonder if 
inventory will be sufficient to fill my order?


I encountered a strange phenomena, as the K3 would constantly click 
whenever the computer I/F cable (from Elecraft) was connected and 
computer turned on.  I have 4 USB ports on rear of computer and 2 on 
front.  Moving to a front USB connector ceased the clicking.  BTW the 
clicking appears not to affect the K3 operation (port uses Com5).


I use my K3 on FT8 and for eme (JT65 or Q65), so very important the 
computer I/F works correctly. B version uses direct USB/USB interface so 
might not be an issue.


73, Ed - KL7UW
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Clark Macaulay]

Hi, Eric.

Thanks for the update. I'm thankful that Elecraft is making these kits
available so long after the last production run of the K3 and the kits.  My
K3 s/n 6011 is working fine with the original KIO3 and am looking forward
to the new capabilities of the "B".

On Fri, Dec 2, 2022 at 7:17 PM Eric Swartz  wrote:

> I apologize for the delay getting this info out to everyone. (See my final
> comments below after the status section for more info on what has caused
> much of the delay.)
>
> First - The current K3 & K3S option status. The following boards are now in
> process, and should ship close to these dates ranges if there are no new
> parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays.
>
> P3TXMON  6-8 weeks
> K3EXREF  8 weeks
> KAT3A:  8 weeks
> KDVR3  8 weeks
> KPA3A6-8 weeks
> KIO3B8-9 weeks
> KSYN3A8 weeks
> KBPF3A8 weeks
> KXV3B   6-8 weeks
>
> K144XV and K144RFLK   7-10 days
> We've completed building an additional batch of K144XV 2M options and
> we're  finishing up the matching K144RFLK lock boards, which lock the
> K144XV's frequency to the K3's reference oscillator.
> We'll be contacting the remaining customers for these two items in order to
> confirm shipping information (and collect the other half of the funds due
> for shipping and those who made a half deposit.)
>
> ---
>
> Remaining 3 Last time Buy items:
>
> P3: Still seeing long parts delays from Analog devices and Microchip.
>
> P3SVGA: Still seeing long parts delays from Intel (FPGA) and Microchip
> (uC).
>
> K3/0 Mini: Microchip (uC) delays plus qualifying second sources on several
> other parts. We are also evaluating our demo stock of  K3/0 Minis to see if
> that can help with regular orders or our wait-list orders.
>
> We will update everyone on these last three items as we get new
> information.
>
> 
> General comments:
> We've been navigating a wide range of parts and manufacturing issues these
> past months. The K3 Options suffered in focus as we first had to keep our
> primary product lines rolling out the door to you. (K4s, KX-Line, Amps
> (100, 500 and 1500W) etc.) We've been successful sourcing parts for these
> primary products and keeping them shipping :-) , but its taken way more
> focus and effort that anyone expected..
>
> We've also had to contend with one of our key circuit board assembly
> subcontractors becoming unavailable after being sold to another company.
> (All of our boards are built in the U.S.) That resulted in our other
> assembly subcontractors becoming overloaded. Fortunately we have now
> qualified and brought on-line several new U.S. circuit board assembly
> companies with excellent results. In addition to smoothing our regular
> production, this has made it possible to get our focus back on the K3
> Options.
>
> We will be posting updates for these products as they each get closer to
> shipping.
>
> Thank you again for your patience.
>
> 73,
>
>
> Eric   WA6HHQ
> *elecraft.com *
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> Message delivered to clark.macau...@gmail.com
>


-- 
73,

Clark, WU4B
Little Pistol With Wires + HexBeam
Elecraft K2 & K3
QRPARCI #10815
SKCC #3892
NAQCC #5055
CWOPS #1869
Collins Collectors #AC90-12432
Southeastern DX Club 
North Georgia QRP Club 


*"It is vain to do with more what can be done with less."*
*Attributed to *William of Occam (1288 AD - 1348 AD)
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Al Lorona]

The most likely near future, which Elecraft has (have?) apparently chosen, 
could be the constant grumbling we will all make for years to come as we sit 
and stare at our K3s with various dead boards. Flex, Yaesu and Icom are all 
rooting for this status quo to continue.

I'd like to suggest a different future. For decades, China has reverse 
engineered practically everything and then sold it for half of what it costs us 
to make it.

I'm pretty sure you could take any K3 circuit board to China and have a working 
prototype in like 24 hours. But it would take an entrepreneur among us to make 
that happen.

Al  W6LX/4
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[John Harper]

I'm looking forward to the day KX2's are once again available. Had one once
& sold it...now with POTA becoming popular, I'd like to have a KX2 again
but estimated shipping times have been "12-16 weeks" for months.

Any updates on the KX-line?

John AE5X
https://ae5x.blogspot.com

>We will be posting updates for these products as they each get closer to

>shipping.
>
>Thank you again for your patience.
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Pete Smith N4ZR]

I am at this point, after almost 3 years, uncertain of just where I 
stand.  I know I'm on the list for a KIO3B UPDKT, but don't know if I 
have any money still there or not; I think I took advantage of a refund 
when it was offered.  Can I assume that when you're ready to ship you'll 
contact people who expressed interest and tell us how much we have due?


73, Pete N4ZR
Check out the new Reverse Beacon Network
web server at.
For spots, please use your favorite
"retail" DX cluster.

On 12/2/2022 7:16 PM, Eric Swartz wrote:

I apologize for the delay getting this info out to everyone. (See my final
comments below after the status section for more info on what has caused
much of the delay.)

First - The current K3 & K3S option status. The following boards are now in
process, and should ship close to these dates ranges if there are no new
parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays.

P3TXMON  6-8 weeks
K3EXREF  8 weeks
KAT3A:  8 weeks
KDVR3  8 weeks
KPA3A6-8 weeks
KIO3B8-9 weeks
KSYN3A8 weeks
KBPF3A8 weeks
KXV3B   6-8 weeks

K144XV and K144RFLK   7-10 days
We've completed building an additional batch of K144XV 2M options and
we're  finishing up the matching K144RFLK lock boards, which lock the
K144XV's frequency to the K3's reference oscillator.
We'll be contacting the remaining customers for these two items in order to
confirm shipping information (and collect the other half of the funds due
for shipping and those who made a half deposit.)

---

Remaining 3 Last time Buy items:

P3: Still seeing long parts delays from Analog devices and Microchip.

P3SVGA: Still seeing long parts delays from Intel (FPGA) and Microchip (uC).

K3/0 Mini: Microchip (uC) delays plus qualifying second sources on several
other parts. We are also evaluating our demo stock of  K3/0 Minis to see if
that can help with regular orders or our wait-list orders.

We will update everyone on these last three items as we get new information.


General comments:
We've been navigating a wide range of parts and manufacturing issues these
past months. The K3 Options suffered in focus as we first had to keep our
primary product lines rolling out the door to you. (K4s, KX-Line, Amps
(100, 500 and 1500W) etc.) We've been successful sourcing parts for these
primary products and keeping them shipping :-) , but its taken way more
focus and effort that anyone expected..

We've also had to contend with one of our key circuit board assembly
subcontractors becoming unavailable after being sold to another company.
(All of our boards are built in the U.S.) That resulted in our other
assembly subcontractors becoming overloaded. Fortunately we have now
qualified and brought on-line several new U.S. circuit board assembly
companies with excellent results. In addition to smoothing our regular
production, this has made it possible to get our focus back on the K3
Options.

We will be posting updates for these products as they each get closer to
shipping.

Thank you again for your patience.

73,


Eric   WA6HHQ
*elecraft.com*
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[David Gilbert]

If additional assembly capabilities are now available, and if parts 
issues for most products are less of a problem, and if component 
obsolescence isn't the issue, why is it necessary for all of those 
K3/K3S products to remain on last time buy status?  Elecraft makes money 
on them, correct?


73,
Dave   AB7E


On 12/2/2022 5:16 PM, Eric Swartz wrote:

I apologize for the delay getting this info out to everyone. (See my final
comments below after the status section for more info on what has caused
much of the delay.)

First - The current K3 & K3S option status. The following boards are now in
process, and should ship close to these dates ranges if there are no new
parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays.

P3TXMON  6-8 weeks
K3EXREF  8 weeks
KAT3A:  8 weeks
KDVR3  8 weeks
KPA3A6-8 weeks
KIO3B8-9 weeks
KSYN3A8 weeks
KBPF3A8 weeks
KXV3B   6-8 weeks

K144XV and K144RFLK   7-10 days
We've completed building an additional batch of K144XV 2M options and
we're  finishing up the matching K144RFLK lock boards, which lock the
K144XV's frequency to the K3's reference oscillator.
We'll be contacting the remaining customers for these two items in order to
confirm shipping information (and collect the other half of the funds due
for shipping and those who made a half deposit.)

---

Remaining 3 Last time Buy items:

P3: Still seeing long parts delays from Analog devices and Microchip.

P3SVGA: Still seeing long parts delays from Intel (FPGA) and Microchip (uC).

K3/0 Mini: Microchip (uC) delays plus qualifying second sources on several
other parts. We are also evaluating our demo stock of  K3/0 Minis to see if
that can help with regular orders or our wait-list orders.

We will update everyone on these last three items as we get new information.


General comments:
We've been navigating a wide range of parts and manufacturing issues these
past months. The K3 Options suffered in focus as we first had to keep our
primary product lines rolling out the door to you. (K4s, KX-Line, Amps
(100, 500 and 1500W) etc.) We've been successful sourcing parts for these
primary products and keeping them shipping :-) , but its taken way more
focus and effort that anyone expected..

We've also had to contend with one of our key circuit board assembly
subcontractors becoming unavailable after being sold to another company.
(All of our boards are built in the U.S.) That resulted in our other
assembly subcontractors becoming overloaded. Fortunately we have now
qualified and brought on-line several new U.S. circuit board assembly
companies with excellent results. In addition to smoothing our regular
production, this has made it possible to get our focus back on the K3
Options.

We will be posting updates for these products as they each get closer to
shipping.

Thank you again for your patience.

73,


Eric   WA6HHQ
*elecraft.com *
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
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Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
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Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] K3 & K3S Options Last Time Buy Update (12/02/2022)

[Eric Swartz]

I apologize for the delay getting this info out to everyone. (See my final
comments below after the status section for more info on what has caused
much of the delay.)

First - The current K3 & K3S option status. The following boards are now in
process, and should ship close to these dates ranges if there are no new
parts issues or surprise manufacturing delays.

P3TXMON  6-8 weeks
K3EXREF  8 weeks
KAT3A:  8 weeks
KDVR3  8 weeks
KPA3A6-8 weeks
KIO3B8-9 weeks
KSYN3A8 weeks
KBPF3A8 weeks
KXV3B   6-8 weeks

K144XV and K144RFLK   7-10 days
We've completed building an additional batch of K144XV 2M options and
we're  finishing up the matching K144RFLK lock boards, which lock the
K144XV's frequency to the K3's reference oscillator.
We'll be contacting the remaining customers for these two items in order to
confirm shipping information (and collect the other half of the funds due
for shipping and those who made a half deposit.)

---

Remaining 3 Last time Buy items:

P3: Still seeing long parts delays from Analog devices and Microchip.

P3SVGA: Still seeing long parts delays from Intel (FPGA) and Microchip (uC).

K3/0 Mini: Microchip (uC) delays plus qualifying second sources on several
other parts. We are also evaluating our demo stock of  K3/0 Minis to see if
that can help with regular orders or our wait-list orders.

We will update everyone on these last three items as we get new information.


General comments:
We've been navigating a wide range of parts and manufacturing issues these
past months. The K3 Options suffered in focus as we first had to keep our
primary product lines rolling out the door to you. (K4s, KX-Line, Amps
(100, 500 and 1500W) etc.) We've been successful sourcing parts for these
primary products and keeping them shipping :-) , but its taken way more
focus and effort that anyone expected..

We've also had to contend with one of our key circuit board assembly
subcontractors becoming unavailable after being sold to another company.
(All of our boards are built in the U.S.) That resulted in our other
assembly subcontractors becoming overloaded. Fortunately we have now
qualified and brought on-line several new U.S. circuit board assembly
companies with excellent results. In addition to smoothing our regular
production, this has made it possible to get our focus back on the K3
Options.

We will be posting updates for these products as they each get closer to
shipping.

Thank you again for your patience.

73,


Eric   WA6HHQ
*elecraft.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

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