Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX
This subject was discussed a good bit about a month ago. Wayne also had contributed to the discussion. Take a look in the archives for the discussion. 73 Milverton. From: Gary Gregory vk1zzg...@gmail.com To: Al Lorona alor...@sbcglobal.net Cc: Elecraft List elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, April 29, 2013 12:14 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Maybe Wayne might weigh in. I have only ecperienced an overload once. A mobile passing by decided to call me during a qso. I was not impressed. I would wonder what the tradeoff might be, if any. I will not be modifying my k3 anytime soon. If it aint' broke, don't mess with it. 73 Gary Vk1ZZ K3, KX3, KPA500-FT, KAT500-FT,P3. On 29/04/2013 1:48 PM, Al Lorona alor...@sbcglobal.net wrote: I read the whole thing, too. It appears that the improvements are measurable... the only question is, Is it worth the trouble? It is obviously an awful lot of work. Another question one must answer is, Am I willing to accept the decrease in my K3's resale value? after you are done cutting traces on boards and so forth. Have you ever heard your K3 overloading due to strong signals? Would you even know what it sounded like if it were happening? If not, I doubt these mods are worth it. I'm sure there are cases where overload does occur but it isn't common. It would have been cool to hear recordings of the same signal on both K3s to hear the difference. Al W6LX Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? 73's Twan - PA0KV __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
I read the whole thing, too. It appears that the improvements are measurable...the only question is, Is it worth the trouble? It is obviously an awful lot of work. The short answer is probably no -- it's not worth the effort unless you really need to eek out a few dB of additional headroom in a radio that already has in excess of 100 dB of close-in dynamic range. There is also a claim of improved MDS on some bands. To investigate this, one of our engineers is doing careful before/after measurements of I7SWX's replacement mixer. On his first attempt, he found the noise floor to be much higher than with the original K3 mixer. He's working with the designer to see if this is an anomaly. 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX
I read the whole thing, too. It appears that the improvements are measurable... the only question is, Is it worth the trouble? It is obviously an awful lot of work. Another question one must answer is, Am I willing to accept the decrease in my K3's resale value? after you are done cutting traces on boards and so forth. Have you ever heard your K3 overloading due to strong signals? Would you even know what it sounded like if it were happening? If not, I doubt these mods are worth it. I'm sure there are cases where overload does occur but it isn't common. It would have been cool to hear recordings of the same signal on both K3s to hear the difference. Al W6LX Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? 73's Twan - PA0KV __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
Maybe Wayne might weigh in. I have only ecperienced an overload once. A mobile passing by decided to call me during a qso. I was not impressed. I would wonder what the tradeoff might be, if any. I will not be modifying my k3 anytime soon. If it aint' broke, don't mess with it. 73 Gary Vk1ZZ K3, KX3, KPA500-FT, KAT500-FT,P3. On 29/04/2013 1:48 PM, Al Lorona alor...@sbcglobal.net wrote: I read the whole thing, too. It appears that the improvements are measurable... the only question is, Is it worth the trouble? It is obviously an awful lot of work. Another question one must answer is, Am I willing to accept the decrease in my K3's resale value? after you are done cutting traces on boards and so forth. Have you ever heard your K3 overloading due to strong signals? Would you even know what it sounded like if it were happening? If not, I doubt these mods are worth it. I'm sure there are cases where overload does occur but it isn't common. It would have been cool to hear recordings of the same signal on both K3s to hear the difference. Al W6LX Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? 73's Twan - PA0KV __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
I guess that I misread that post also, not what I got out of it. 73, Fred/N0AZZ K3 Ser #'s 6730/5299--KX3 # 2573--K2/100--KAT100 P3/SVGA--KPA500--KAT500--W2 -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bill Clarke Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 1:34 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Mods on paper and needs a K3 to test them on? Really? Perhaps I read the message incorrectly? Bill W2BLC __ 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 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2013.0.2904 / Virus Database: 2641/6185 - Release Date: 03/17/13 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2013.0.2904 / Virus Database: 2641/6185 - Release Date: 03/17/13 __ 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 mods by I7SWX
Hi Fred and Bill, mods on paper? I was talking about the possibble mods I studied to replace the second mixer (SA612), that are still on paper but we have two volunteers to let me try and see if they will be valid or not. The other mods have been applied on several K3 world wide. 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 33 Date: Tue, 19 Mar 2013 04:49:20 -0500 From: Fred Smith m...@mo-net.com To: 'Bill Clarke' b...@w2blc.net, elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 004501ce2487$0811eb20$1835c160$@com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII I guess that I misread that post also, not what I got out of it. 73, Fred/N0AZZ K3 Ser #'s 6730/5299--KX3 # 2573--K2/100--KAT100 P3/SVGA--KPA500--KAT500--W2 -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bill Clarke Sent: Monday, March 18, 2013 1:34 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Mods on paper and needs a K3 to test them on? Really? Perhaps I read the message incorrectly? Bill W2BLC __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
Are there any test results available for the other mods suggested in Gian's paper? Thanks 73, Mike, W3IP Sent from my iPhone On Mar 1, 2013, at 1:22 PM, Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com wrote: Hi Wes, thanks for your note. Yes, it is the second mixer that needs improvement. I have the mods on paper and we are waiting for a volunteer to lend us a K3 for some time ... this will need soldering work...hi I will keep you posted once tested 73 Gian I7SWX Da: Wes Stewart n...@yahoo.com A: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net; Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com Inviato: Venerdì 1 Marzo 2013 19:02 Oggetto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX It's the second mixer that needs improvement. Wes N7WS --- On Fri, 3/1/13, Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX To: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com, elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Friday, March 1, 2013, 10:18 AM Hi Milverton, I am not sure about your question, sorry. It is not a pitch to Elecraft, if I understand what you are asking for. I am not doing business but enjoying fiddling with radio... certainly we have to recuperate the investment and cover the assembler job. The kits are available for interested Hams. Thanks and best 73 Gian I7SWX Da: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com A: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Inviato: Venerdì 1 Marzo 2013 17:56 Oggetto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Is this a sales pitch to Elecraft, or just to interested parties? Or, could it be directed at both? Not in any way discounting the mods, just wondering. 73 Milverton. From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, March 1, 2013 7:40 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Dear Twan, thank you very much for your comment. Wayne is right with his reply. Also right is the comment from Keith, XE3/K5ENS Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. Certainly these are not mods for normal user, but those looking for the hair in the egg any little improvement can make a difference. Please let me explain how the idea to modify the K3 started. I have dome mods for many commercial equipments from the 70's to the beginning of this century. I was very curious to see if it could be possible to squeeze out some additional performances from the K3. Certainly, I was not expecting any flashing results like obtained on the above equipment. I discovered that the K3 had a removable mixer... what a chance, a way to fiddle with a nice system without going to impair a warranty or damage the radio. One Italiam OM, IT9BLB, of well known Contest stations IT9BLB, IH9P and IR9Y, told me that they had some difficulties to copy week station with the K3 while their modified FT1000MP (more complex mods) was making easier the copy. That pushed me to do a trial and I went ahead with my friend Sergio, IK8TNG. From what we thought interesting results we designed a swappable H-Mode Mixer and made it available assembled and tested to operators without the need to use a soldering iron. Then I studied some additional changes, experimented already in all the other modified radio. If you do really like to see changes, and you have no money for a K3 but you possess a K2, then you will need to use a soldering iron and apply similar mods to it. The problem is space availaibility. You asked Elecraft Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? I am not the one to answer, but I do not see any problem why Elecraft could not use the H-Mode Mixer in their expected (?) new K4 in the 2 transformer I7SWX configuration or in the original 3 transformer G3SBI, using the FST3125 or the FSA3157 switches. Note for Eric and Wayne, my configuration is available for you, I will request only a few million $ ... hi The H-Mode Mixer is in the public dominium, probably the only legal aspect is reference to the inventor, G3SBI, and maybe to me for the 2 transformer one. Best 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 17 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:00:12 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Twan at pa0kv.nl pa...@pa0kv.nl Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 461dacc5-6aae-49d4-8c8a-b93dab3b6...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional
Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX
Mods on paper and needs a K3 to test them on? Really? Perhaps I read the message incorrectly? Bill W2BLC __ 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 mods by I7SWX
Dear Twan, thank you very much for your comment. Wayne is right with his reply. Also right is the comment from Keith, XE3/K5ENS Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. Certainly these are not mods for normal user, but those looking for the hair in the egg any little improvement can make a difference. Please let me explain how the idea to modify the K3 started. I have dome mods for many commercial equipments from the 70's to the beginning of this century. I was very curious to see if it could be possible to squeeze out some additional performances from the K3. Certainly, I was not expecting any flashing results like obtained on the above equipment. I discovered that the K3 had a removable mixer... what a chance, a way to fiddle with a nice system without going to impair a warranty or damage the radio. One Italiam OM, IT9BLB, of well known Contest stations IT9BLB, IH9P and IR9Y, told me that they had some difficulties to copy week station with the K3 while their modified FT1000MP (more complex mods) was making easier the copy. That pushed me to do a trial and I went ahead with my friend Sergio, IK8TNG. From what we thought interesting results we designed a swappable H-Mode Mixer and made it available assembled and tested to operators without the need to use a soldering iron. Then I studied some additional changes, experimented already in all the other modified radio. If you do really like to see changes, and you have no money for a K3 but you possess a K2, then you will need to use a soldering iron and apply similar mods to it. The problem is space availaibility. You asked Elecraft Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? I am not the one to answer, but I do not see any problem why Elecraft could not use the H-Mode Mixer in their expected (?) new K4 in the 2 transformer I7SWX configuration or in the original 3 transformer G3SBI, using the FST3125 or the FSA3157 switches. Note for Eric and Wayne, my configuration is available for you, I will request only a few million $ ... hi The H-Mode Mixer is in the public dominium, probably the only legal aspect is reference to the inventor, G3SBI, and maybe to me for the 2 transformer one. Best 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 17 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:00:12 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Twan at pa0kv.nl pa...@pa0kv.nl Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 461dacc5-6aae-49d4-8c8a-b93dab3b6...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 Message: 20 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:32:03 -0800 (PST) From: Keith-K5ENS ke...@kathyandkeith.mx To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 1362087123842-7570520.p...@n2.nabble.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. 73, Keith, XE3/K5ENS -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-by-I7SWX-tp7570516p7570520.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] K3 mods by I7SWX
Hello Wayne. I do agree with you that the K3 is an amazing transceiver. But this is mostly the reason why a ham buys his gear. So, in a business point of view I think that an improved K3 plug-in mixer, designed by Elecraft, would sell! Electronics is part of the HAM-hobby for me and many other hams. I modified my Drake B-line, later the Drake C-line and later again the Drake 7-line. All with much pleasure. But, if f.i. a mixer mod does not give me notable improvements I would skip it. It's up to you guys to figure out what is feasible. 73, Twan - PA0KV Op 28-2-2013 22:00, Wayne Burdick schreef: Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 __ 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 - Geen virus gevonden in dit bericht. Gecontroleerd door AVG - www.avg.com Versie: 2013.0.2899 / Virusdatabase: 2641/6136 - datum van uitgifte: 02/27/13 __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
I have a hard time not wanting to make my K3 be in the top 0.1%! Practically speaking, I would never experience the improved MDS that was reported because I live in the middle of town, with neighbors a few feet away on all sides. Man-made noises mask receiver noise on all bands most of the time (except perhaps on 6m). In other words, the stock K3 is better than my QTH. I couldn't use a Maserati on the freeway here, either. But of course, what about Field Day? On 3/1/2013 5:40 AM, Giancarlo Moda wrote: Dear Twan, thank you very much for your comment. Wayne is right with his reply. Also right is the comment from Keith, XE3/K5ENS Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. Certainly these are not mods for normal user, but those looking for the hair in the egg any little improvement can make a difference. Please let me explain how the idea to modify the K3 started. I have dome mods for many commercial equipments from the 70's to the beginning of this century. I was very curious to see if it could be possible to squeeze out some additional performances from the K3. Certainly, I was not expecting any flashing results like obtained on the above equipment. I discovered that the K3 had a removable mixer... what a chance, a way to fiddle with a nice system without going to impair a warranty or damage the radio. One Italiam OM, IT9BLB, of well known Contest stations IT9BLB, IH9P and IR9Y, told me that they had some difficulties to copy week station with the K3 while their modified FT1000MP (more complex mods) was making easier the copy. That pushed me to do a trial and I went ahead with my friend Sergio, IK8TNG. From what we thought interesting results we designed a swappable H-Mode Mixer and made it available assembled and tested to operators without the need to use a soldering iron. Then I studied some additional changes, experimented already in all the other modified radio. If you do really like to see changes, and you have no money for a K3 but you possess a K2, then you will need to use a soldering iron and apply similar mods to it. The problem is space availaibility. You asked Elecraft Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? I am not the one to answer, but I do not see any problem why Elecraft could not use the H-Mode Mixer in their expected (?) new K4 in the 2 transformer I7SWX configuration or in the original 3 transformer G3SBI, using the FST3125 or the FSA3157 switches. Note for Eric and Wayne, my configuration is available for you, I will request only a few million $ ... hi The H-Mode Mixer is in the public dominium, probably the only legal aspect is reference to the inventor, G3SBI, and maybe to me for the 2 transformer one. Best 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 17 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:00:12 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Twan at pa0kv.nl pa...@pa0kv.nl Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 461dacc5-6aae-49d4-8c8a-b93dab3b6...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 Message: 20 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:32:03 -0800 (PST) From: Keith-K5ENS ke...@kathyandkeith.mx To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 1362087123842-7570520.p...@n2.nabble.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. 73, Keith, XE3/K5ENS -- Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
Is this a sales pitch to Elecraft, or just to interested parties? Or, could it be directed at both? Not in any way discounting the mods, just wondering. 73 Milverton. From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, March 1, 2013 7:40 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Dear Twan, thank you very much for your comment. Wayne is right with his reply. Also right is the comment from Keith, XE3/K5ENS Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. Certainly these are not mods for normal user, but those looking for the hair in the egg any little improvement can make a difference. Please let me explain how the idea to modify the K3 started. I have dome mods for many commercial equipments from the 70's to the beginning of this century. I was very curious to see if it could be possible to squeeze out some additional performances from the K3. Certainly, I was not expecting any flashing results like obtained on the above equipment. I discovered that the K3 had a removable mixer... what a chance, a way to fiddle with a nice system without going to impair a warranty or damage the radio. One Italiam OM, IT9BLB, of well known Contest stations IT9BLB, IH9P and IR9Y, told me that they had some difficulties to copy week station with the K3 while their modified FT1000MP (more complex mods) was making easier the copy. That pushed me to do a trial and I went ahead with my friend Sergio, IK8TNG. From what we thought interesting results we designed a swappable H-Mode Mixer and made it available assembled and tested to operators without the need to use a soldering iron. Then I studied some additional changes, experimented already in all the other modified radio. If you do really like to see changes, and you have no money for a K3 but you possess a K2, then you will need to use a soldering iron and apply similar mods to it. The problem is space availaibility. You asked Elecraft Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? I am not the one to answer, but I do not see any problem why Elecraft could not use the H-Mode Mixer in their expected (?) new K4 in the 2 transformer I7SWX configuration or in the original 3 transformer G3SBI, using the FST3125 or the FSA3157 switches. Note for Eric and Wayne, my configuration is available for you, I will request only a few million $ ... hi The H-Mode Mixer is in the public dominium, probably the only legal aspect is reference to the inventor, G3SBI, and maybe to me for the 2 transformer one. Best 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 17 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:00:12 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Twan at pa0kv.nl pa...@pa0kv.nl Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 461dacc5-6aae-49d4-8c8a-b93dab3b6...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 Message: 20 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:32:03 -0800 (PST) From: Keith-K5ENS ke...@kathyandkeith.mx To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 1362087123842-7570520.p...@n2.nabble.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. 73, Keith, XE3/K5ENS -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-by-I7SWX-tp7570516p7570520.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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX
Hi Milverton, I am not sure about your question, sorry. It is not a pitch to Elecraft, if I understand what you are asking for. I am not doing business but enjoying fiddling with radio... certainly we have to recuperate the investment and cover the assembler job. The kits are available for interested Hams. Thanks and best 73 Gian I7SWX Da: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com A: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Inviato: Venerdì 1 Marzo 2013 17:56 Oggetto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Is this a sales pitch to Elecraft, or just to interested parties? Or, could it be directed at both? Not in any way discounting the mods, just wondering. 73 Milverton. From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, March 1, 2013 7:40 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Dear Twan, thank you very much for your comment. Wayne is right with his reply. Also right is the comment from Keith, XE3/K5ENS Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. Certainly these are not mods for normal user, but those looking for the hair in the egg any little improvement can make a difference. Please let me explain how the idea to modify the K3 started. I have dome mods for many commercial equipments from the 70's to the beginning of this century. I was very curious to see if it could be possible to squeeze out some additional performances from the K3. Certainly, I was not expecting any flashing results like obtained on the above equipment. I discovered that the K3 had a removable mixer... what a chance, a way to fiddle with a nice system without going to impair a warranty or damage the radio. One Italiam OM, IT9BLB, of well known Contest stations IT9BLB, IH9P and IR9Y, told me that they had some difficulties to copy week station with the K3 while their modified FT1000MP (more complex mods) was making easier the copy. That pushed me to do a trial and I went ahead with my friend Sergio, IK8TNG. From what we thought interesting results we designed a swappable H-Mode Mixer and made it available assembled and tested to operators without the need to use a soldering iron. Then I studied some additional changes, experimented already in all the other modified radio. If you do really like to see changes, and you have no money for a K3 but you possess a K2, then you will need to use a soldering iron and apply similar mods to it. The problem is space availaibility. You asked Elecraft Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? I am not the one to answer, but I do not see any problem why Elecraft could not use the H-Mode Mixer in their expected (?) new K4 in the 2 transformer I7SWX configuration or in the original 3 transformer G3SBI, using the FST3125 or the FSA3157 switches. Note for Eric and Wayne, my configuration is available for you, I will request only a few million $ ... hi The H-Mode Mixer is in the public dominium, probably the only legal aspect is reference to the inventor, G3SBI, and maybe to me for the 2 transformer one. Best 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 17 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:00:12 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Twan at pa0kv.nl pa...@pa0kv.nl Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 461dacc5-6aae-49d4-8c8a-b93dab3b6...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 Message: 20 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:32:03 -0800 (PST) From: Keith-K5ENS ke...@kathyandkeith.mx To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 1362087123842-7570520.p...@n2.nabble.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. 73, Keith, XE3/K5ENS -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-by-I7SWX-tp7570516p7570520.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX
It's the second mixer that needs improvement. Wes N7WS --- On Fri, 3/1/13, Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX To: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com, elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Friday, March 1, 2013, 10:18 AM Hi Milverton, I am not sure about your question, sorry. It is not a pitch to Elecraft, if I understand what you are asking for. I am not doing business but enjoying fiddling with radio... certainly we have to recuperate the investment and cover the assembler job. The kits are available for interested Hams. Thanks and best 73 Gian I7SWX Da: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com A: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Inviato: Venerdì 1 Marzo 2013 17:56 Oggetto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Is this a sales pitch to Elecraft, or just to interested parties? Or, could it be directed at both? Not in any way discounting the mods, just wondering. 73 Milverton. From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, March 1, 2013 7:40 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Dear Twan, thank you very much for your comment. Wayne is right with his reply. Also right is the comment from Keith, XE3/K5ENS Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. Certainly these are not mods for normal user, but those looking for the hair in the egg any little improvement can make a difference. Please let me explain how the idea to modify the K3 started. I have dome mods for many commercial equipments from the 70's to the beginning of this century. I was very curious to see if it could be possible to squeeze out some additional performances from the K3. Certainly, I was not expecting any flashing results like obtained on the above equipment. I discovered that the K3 had a removable mixer... what a chance, a way to fiddle with a nice system without going to impair a warranty or damage the radio. One Italiam OM, IT9BLB, of well known Contest stations IT9BLB, IH9P and IR9Y, told me that they had some difficulties to copy week station with the K3 while their modified FT1000MP (more complex mods) was making easier the copy. That pushed me to do a trial and I went ahead with my friend Sergio, IK8TNG. From what we thought interesting results we designed a swappable H-Mode Mixer and made it available assembled and tested to operators without the need to use a soldering iron. Then I studied some additional changes, experimented already in all the other modified radio. If you do really like to see changes, and you have no money for a K3 but you possess a K2, then you will need to use a soldering iron and apply similar mods to it. The problem is space availaibility. You asked Elecraft Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? I am not the one to answer, but I do not see any problem why Elecraft could not use the H-Mode Mixer in their expected (?) new K4 in the 2 transformer I7SWX configuration or in the original 3 transformer G3SBI, using the FST3125 or the FSA3157 switches. Note for Eric and Wayne, my configuration is available for you, I will request only a few million $ ... hi The H-Mode Mixer is in the public dominium, probably the only legal aspect is reference to the inventor, G3SBI, and maybe to me for the 2 transformer one. Best 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 17 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:00:12 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Twan at pa0kv.nl pa...@pa0kv.nl Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 461dacc5-6aae-49d4-8c8a-b93dab3b6...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 Message: 20 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:32:03 -0800 (PST) From: Keith-K5ENS ke...@kathyandkeith.mx To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 1362087123842-7570520.p...@n2.nabble.com Content
Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX
Hi Wes, thanks for your note. Yes, it is the second mixer that needs improvement. I have the mods on paper and we are waiting for a volunteer to lend us a K3 for some time ... this will need soldering work...hi I will keep you posted once tested 73 Gian I7SWX Da: Wes Stewart n...@yahoo.com A: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net; Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com Inviato: Venerdì 1 Marzo 2013 19:02 Oggetto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX It's the second mixer that needs improvement. Wes N7WS --- On Fri, 3/1/13, Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX To: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com, elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Friday, March 1, 2013, 10:18 AM Hi Milverton, I am not sure about your question, sorry. It is not a pitch to Elecraft, if I understand what you are asking for. I am not doing business but enjoying fiddling with radio... certainly we have to recuperate the investment and cover the assembler job. The kits are available for interested Hams. Thanks and best 73 Gian I7SWX Da: tnny...@yahoo.com tnny...@yahoo.com A: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Inviato: Venerdì 1 Marzo 2013 17:56 Oggetto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Is this a sales pitch to Elecraft, or just to interested parties? Or, could it be directed at both? Not in any way discounting the mods, just wondering. 73 Milverton. From: Giancarlo Moda i7...@yahoo.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, March 1, 2013 7:40 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Dear Twan, thank you very much for your comment. Wayne is right with his reply. Also right is the comment from Keith, XE3/K5ENS Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. Certainly these are not mods for normal user, but those looking for the hair in the egg any little improvement can make a difference. Please let me explain how the idea to modify the K3 started. I have dome mods for many commercial equipments from the 70's to the beginning of this century. I was very curious to see if it could be possible to squeeze out some additional performances from the K3. Certainly, I was not expecting any flashing results like obtained on the above equipment. I discovered that the K3 had a removable mixer... what a chance, a way to fiddle with a nice system without going to impair a warranty or damage the radio. One Italiam OM, IT9BLB, of well known Contest stations IT9BLB, IH9P and IR9Y, told me that they had some difficulties to copy week station with the K3 while their modified FT1000MP (more complex mods) was making easier the copy. That pushed me to do a trial and I went ahead with my friend Sergio, IK8TNG. From what we thought interesting results we designed a swappable H-Mode Mixer and made it available assembled and tested to operators without the need to use a soldering iron. Then I studied some additional changes, experimented already in all the other modified radio. If you do really like to see changes, and you have no money for a K3 but you possess a K2, then you will need to use a soldering iron and apply similar mods to it. The problem is space availaibility. You asked Elecraft Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? I am not the one to answer, but I do not see any problem why Elecraft could not use the H-Mode Mixer in their expected (?) new K4 in the 2 transformer I7SWX configuration or in the original 3 transformer G3SBI, using the FST3125 or the FSA3157 switches. Note for Eric and Wayne, my configuration is available for you, I will request only a few million $ ... hi The H-Mode Mixer is in the public dominium, probably the only legal aspect is reference to the inventor, G3SBI, and maybe to me for the 2 transformer one. Best 73 Gian I7SWX Message: 17 Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:00:12 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Twan at pa0kv.nl pa...@pa0kv.nl Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 461dacc5-6aae-49d4-8c8a-b93dab3b6...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really
Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX
I was 'sparring' with Wayne. ;-) NOT with I7SWX. Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 Message: 30 Date: Fri, 1 Mar 2013 08:56:11 -0800 (PST) From:tnny...@yahoo.com To: Giancarlo Modai7...@yahoo.com, elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods by I7SWX Message-ID: 1362156971.80875.yahoomail...@web120303.mail.ne1.yahoo.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Is this a sales pitch to Elecraft, or just to interested parties? Or, could it be directed at both? Not in any way discounting the mods, just wondering. 73 Milverton. __ 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 mods by I7SWX
Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
Twan, The K3 is one of the highest-performance radios available (very high on everyone's list, including Sherwood's). A small additional improvement in one or two parameters may be of interest to a few operators. The other 99.9% of K3 owners do not need to make any modifications. 73, Wayne N6KR On Feb 28, 2013, at 12:33 PM, Twan at pa0kv.nl wrote: Hi! I just read all about the I7SWX mods and I was wondering what Elecraft's point of view is in this? Are these mods really a major improvement? (Are is it 'crap'..) Are there any plans in the near future to build a new mixer module with this technology? What about the other mods; - terminating the filter bank - PSU voltage regulator noise As allways.. very interested in K3 improvements 8-) 73's Twan - PA0KV K3 - 1770 __ 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] K3 mods by I7SWX
Then again if you want your K3 to be one of the top .1% these mods will help. 73, Keith, XE3/K5ENS -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-by-I7SWX-tp7570516p7570520.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] K3 mods timeline
I was just on Elecraft's website looking at the K3 mods and parts order pages. Is there a list showing which mods were installed in reference by serial number or build dates? The parts order page only indicates that these mods are included on all new K3's. I have factory-built serial number #3215 and wanted to bring mine up to current build status and want to know which mods I should perform. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks. Mike AC6JA K3 #3215 __ 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] K3 mods timeline
Certainly, that list exists. On the opening screen (or any others) of the Elecraft site, click on K3 Mods + App Notes. If the information listed in the 3rd column is ambiguous, look to the 4th column, You may have to open the application note listed and read the contents to determine if it is installed on your K3. There is some difference in serial numbering between factory built and kit K3s, so some element of serial number ambiguity may exist, and cannot be easily resolved except by examination of the K3 in question. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2011 1:49 PM, ac...@aol.com wrote: I was just on Elecraft's website looking at the K3 mods and parts order pages. Is there a list showing which mods were installed in reference by serial number or build dates? The parts order page only indicates that these mods are included on all new K3's. I have factory-built serial number #3215 and wanted to bring mine up to current build status and want to know which mods I should perform. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks. Mike AC6JA K3 #3215 __ 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] K3 mods timeline
AC6JA wrote: I was just on Elecraft's website looking at the K3 mods and parts order pages. Is there a list showing which mods were installed in reference by serial number or build dates? The parts order page only indicates that these mods are included on all new K3's. I have factory-built serial number #3215 and wanted to bring mine up to current build status and want to know which mods I should perform. An educated guess is that you need the top 4 listed here: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_app_notes.htm This is based on the bottom 3 which state about 01/09/09, your S/N #3215 and a VY2SS post: Elecraft K3 ser#3408 came into existence today September 14, 2009! All 3 RF Board mods are easy to determine by inspection...easily accessible by removing the bottom front panel. You may also want the K3DSPLPF kit to bring your Rev C DSP board up to Rev D. See: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/mods/dsp_rev_c_information.htm ...as well as the K3SYN Stiffener Mod (fixes microphonic coupling from the speaker into the K3SYN): http://www.elecraft.com/manual/ELECRAFT%20KSYN3%20Stiffener%20Mod%20Rev%20D.pdf All of the above except the LPF kit are relatively easy to install. Unless you hear a 12 kHz artifact in your audio, you probably can skip the LPF kit which is more complex. The extended low end DSP audio mod is already in your Rev C DSP. Just to be safe, I would confirm the above with Gary@ or k3support@ elecraft.com. 73, Bill W4ZV -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-timeline-tp6761509p6761799.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] K3 mods timeline
You may also need K3VFOFILTERKIT K3 VFO Tuning Noise Filter Kit which was implemented in August 2009...again easy to determine by inspection of the RF board mentioned below. 73, Bill Bill W4ZV wrote: AC6JA wrote: I was just on Elecraft's website looking at the K3 mods and parts order pages. Is there a list showing which mods were installed in reference by serial number or build dates? The parts order page only indicates that these mods are included on all new K3's. I have factory-built serial number #3215 and wanted to bring mine up to current build status and want to know which mods I should perform. An educated guess is that you need the top 4 listed here: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_app_notes.htm This is based on the bottom 3 which state about 01/09/09, your S/N #3215 and a VY2SS post: Elecraft K3 ser#3408 came into existence today September 14, 2009! All 3 RF Board mods are easy to determine by inspection...easily accessible by removing the bottom front panel. You may also want the K3DSPLPF kit to bring your Rev C DSP board up to Rev D. See: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/mods/dsp_rev_c_information.htm ...as well as the K3SYN Stiffener Mod (fixes microphonic coupling from the speaker into the K3SYN): http://www.elecraft.com/manual/ELECRAFT%20KSYN3%20Stiffener%20Mod%20Rev%20D.pdf All of the above except the LPF kit are relatively easy to install. Unless you hear a 12 kHz artifact in your audio, you probably can skip the LPF kit which is more complex. The extended low end DSP audio mod is already in your Rev C DSP. Just to be safe, I would confirm the above with Gary@ or k3support@ elecraft.com. 73, Bill W4ZV -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-timeline-tp6761509p6761837.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] K3 mods timeline
Thanks for the help! Mike AC6JA In a message dated 9/5/2011 12:51:15 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time, btipp...@alum.mit.edu writes: You may also need K3VFOFILTERKIT K3 VFO Tuning Noise Filter Kit which was implemented in August 2009...again easy to determine by inspection of the RF board mentioned below. 73, Bill Bill W4ZV wrote: AC6JA wrote: I was just on Elecraft's website looking at the K3 mods and parts order pages. Is there a list showing which mods were installed in reference by serial number or build dates? The parts order page only indicates that these mods are included on all new K3's. I have factory-built serial number #3215 and wanted to bring mine up to current build status and want to know which mods I should perform. An educated guess is that you need the top 4 listed here: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_app_notes.htm This is based on the bottom 3 which state about 01/09/09, your S/N #3215 and a VY2SS post: Elecraft K3 ser#3408 came into existence today September 14, 2009! All 3 RF Board mods are easy to determine by inspection...easily accessible by removing the bottom front panel. You may also want the K3DSPLPF kit to bring your Rev C DSP board up to Rev D. See: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/mods/dsp_rev_c_information.htm ...as well as the K3SYN Stiffener Mod (fixes microphonic coupling from the speaker into the K3SYN): http://www.elecraft.com/manual/ELECRAFT%20KSYN3%20Stiffener%20Mod%20Rev%20D.pdf All of the above except the LPF kit are relatively easy to install. Unless you hear a 12 kHz artifact in your audio, you probably can skip the LPF kit which is more complex. The extended low end DSP audio mod is already in your Rev C DSP. Just to be safe, I would confirm the above with Gary@ or k3support@ elecraft.com. 73, Bill W4ZV -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-timeline-tp6761509p6761837.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] [K3] Mods missing from web page
I'll get it fixed on the page. 73, Eric --- On 1/9/2011 5:22 PM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote: While the stiffener IS in the orderables, it is NOT in the list of mods, as Carl reports. It should be in the list. 73, Guy. On Sun, Jan 9, 2011 at 8:11 PM, Bill W4ZVbtipp...@alum.mit.edu wrote: Carl Clawson-2 wrote: One that I notice to be missing is the KSYN3 stiffener mod. The app note is stored near the manual but is not linked anywhere that I can find. This is one that I probably wouldn't bother with, but are there other mods that somehow never made it to the mod page? http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_app_notes.htm http://www.elecraft.com/order_form_parts.htm#K3%20Parts K3STFNR is third one down on last page above. 73, Bill -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-missing-from-web-page-tp5905599p5905653.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 __ 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] [K3] Mods missing from web page
I'll provide a little more of an answer to my own question: Having browsed through the mod kits order page, I was reminded of the DSP upgrades K3DSPUPGD/K3DSPLPF. These are also missing from the app notes page. That's all I can come up with. Thanks 73, Carl WS7L K3 #486 I'll get it fixed on the page. 73, Eric __ 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] Mods missing from web page
I'm preparing to go into my K3 and do some mods while I have it open to install new filters. I see mods listed at http://www.elecraft.com/K3/mods/ but the list is not complete. One that I notice to be missing is the KSYN3 stiffener mod. The app note is stored near the manual but is not linked anywhere that I can find. This is one that I probably wouldn't bother with, but are there other mods that somehow never made it to the mod page? Thanks for your help. 73, Carl WS7L K3 #486 __ 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] [K3] Mods missing from web page
Carl Clawson-2 wrote: One that I notice to be missing is the KSYN3 stiffener mod. The app note is stored near the manual but is not linked anywhere that I can find. This is one that I probably wouldn't bother with, but are there other mods that somehow never made it to the mod page? http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_app_notes.htm http://www.elecraft.com/order_form_parts.htm#K3%20Parts K3STFNR is third one down on last page above. 73, Bill -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-missing-from-web-page-tp5905599p5905653.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] [K3] Mods missing from web page
While the stiffener IS in the orderables, it is NOT in the list of mods, as Carl reports. It should be in the list. 73, Guy. On Sun, Jan 9, 2011 at 8:11 PM, Bill W4ZV btipp...@alum.mit.edu wrote: Carl Clawson-2 wrote: One that I notice to be missing is the KSYN3 stiffener mod. The app note is stored near the manual but is not linked anywhere that I can find. This is one that I probably wouldn't bother with, but are there other mods that somehow never made it to the mod page? http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_app_notes.htm http://www.elecraft.com/order_form_parts.htm#K3%20Parts K3STFNR is third one down on last page above. 73, Bill -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-missing-from-web-page-tp5905599p5905653.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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
I got over 11M operation shortly after gaining my amateur licence and it surprises me that 11M operators would want to spend the money on a K3 when there is a plethora of gear around that is still easy to 'open' up at a fraction of the cost of a K3. In VK, 11M operations appear to be concentrated on 27.355 LSB and 27.555USB and I wonder just how many of these operators would even consider a K3 given the price tag. As for any 'double standard' it should be made a compliance rule that ALL amateur gear be made extremely difficult to convert IF that is what the authorities want. The regulator in VK appears to be not interested in CB but rather in upping the cost to become an amateur and licence renewal fees and chasing the commercial dollars. Enforcement activities seem to be off their 'Radar' at the moment. The language you here on CB down under would embarrass even a truck driver. (OH, I was one of the drivers who avoided 11M CB) We have an 'outback' HF service which requires SelCall ID fitted to all radios and NO amateur rig meets with their approval so to open up a K3 to TX on these frequencies is an exercise in futility these days. Each of us has a differing opinion it seems which is OK with me at least. 73's Gary On Sun, Dec 26, 2010 at 4:09 PM, juergen plebia...@yahoo.com wrote: Hi Jeff A weird policy really since the K3 is neither type accepted for MARS, NTIA, aeronautical or the maritime service. Its double standards saying on the one hand that its ok to use the K3 on one particular HF service even though its it illegal, then go onto say that it wont be allowed on the CB service. To me it does not matter since I use a TS480HX and its IMD performance at 100 watts meets spectral purity standards for all HF services at 100 watts of output. The TS480HX is good radio at 100 watts of output. I use my 480HX in both my sailing and flying hobbies and it works great. At least if you wanted to stand on the high moral ground, out of band transmission on any non amateur band on the K3 should not be allowed. You at least would have some credibility on the issue. 73 John --- On Sat, 12/25/10, Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF vk4bof.elecr...@gmail.com wrote: From: Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF vk4bof.elecr...@gmail.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting? To: DM7ZQ 73...@gmx.net, elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Saturday, December 25, 2010, 9:03 PM Benjamin, Speaking from experience, the 'wideband' software 'tool' will indeed allow the K3 to transmit outside of most bands but operation on 27MHz is still recieve only even after the usage of said software 'tool'. Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF Innisfail, QLD, Australia Elecraft K3# 4257 - Original Message - From: DM7ZQ To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Sunday, December 26, 2010 5:18 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting? Hello Elecrafters, merry christmas, how can i tune my Elecraft K3 to transmit on ´wide band coverage´ e.g. 11m Band? I know, i need an Software plug-in!? How can i get this? Thanks for a short answer, 73 de Benjamin, DM7ZQ -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-for-wide-band-transmiting-tp5866670p5866670.html Sent from the [K3] 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 __ 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 -- Gary VK4FD - Motorhome Mobile http://www.qsl.net/vk4fd/ K3 #679, P3 #546 For everything else there's Mastercard!!! __ 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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
- Original Message - From: DM7ZQ Thanks for a short answer, 73 de Benjamin, DM7ZQ Please note that the original poster is not under FCC jusrisdiction. Not even close, so FCC certificated issues and other restrictions do not apply. Merry Christmas. 73, de Nate N0NB -- The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all possible worlds. The pessimist fears this is true. Ham radio, Linux, bikes, and more: http://n0nb.us/index.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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
Good evening, sorry for my ´lowbrow´ question. I do not want to do anything illegal! Some friends have told them and I wanted to ask the reflector to learn more about this. Please excuse - my english is not very fine. Close this question now, it´s done. Vy 73 and thanks for the many answers. Best regards, 73 de Benjamin, DM7ZQ -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-for-wide-band-transmiting-tp5866670p5868157.html Sent from the [K3] 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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
Benjamin, If you are referring to ESSB mode, the K3 already includes it, you only need to 6 kHz filter. That filter will also allow you to transmit AM with the K3. If you want FM too, you need the 15 kHz filter. These are all generated in the K3 DSP, no hardware mods to add these modes. The K3 DSP also controls the transmit bandwidth. If I did not understand your question, please ask again. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/26/2010 3:11 PM, DM7ZQ wrote: Good evening, sorry for my ´lowbrow´ question. I do not want to do anything illegal! Some friends have told them and I wanted to ask the reflector to learn more about this. Please excuse - my english is not very fine. Close this question now, it´s done. Vy 73 and thanks for the many answers. Best regards, 73 de Benjamin, DM7ZQ __ 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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
Here in the US there are few bootleggers on MARS, etc., but it's been an epidemic on the 11 meter CB band since 11 meters was taken from Amateur and given to CB service. It was quite predictable, given the huge number of Amateur rigs on the used market that covered 11 meters when it was a Ham band. As SSB phased into CB, many bootleggers made money modifying newer Ham gear to cover 11 meters. The draconian regulations covering the ability to modify/operate US Ham rigs and amplifiers on the 11 meter band are an attempt to stem that abuse by providing a clear legal basis to prosecute suppliers of that stuff along with the illegal operators. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- ...Its double standards saying on the one hand that its ok to use the K3 on one particular HF service even though its it illegal, then go onto say that it wont be allowed on the CB service. To me it does not matter since I use a TS480HX and its IMD performance at 100 watts meets spectral purity standards for all HF services at 100 watts of output. The TS480HX is good radio at 100 watts of output. I use my 480HX in both my sailing and flying hobbies and it works great. At least if you wanted to stand on the high moral ground, out of band transmission on any non amateur band on the K3 should not be allowed. You at least would have some credibility on the issue. 73 John --- On Sat, 12/25/10, Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF vk4bof.elecr...@gmail.com wrote: Benjamin, Speaking from experience, the 'wideband' software 'tool' will indeed allow the K3 to transmit outside of most bands but operation on 27MHz is still recieve only even after the usage of said software 'tool'. Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF Innisfail, QLD, Australia Elecraft K3# 4257 __ 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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
Hmmm, It seems that the OP's question and my answer may have created a bit of a storm in a teacup. If you are offended in some way by my post I appologise. Perhaps I should clarify my original reply. I 'acquired' the out of band TX software via a radio based forum on the internet and tried it out on my K3 and found that it does do as I stated, it will transmit out of band on all bands except 27MHz. (I tested my 'modified' K3 into a dummy load.) The only need I have for transmitting out of band is that I am an Australian Coast Guard Volunteer and the holder of a Marine Radio Operators certificate and as such I monitor (and occasionally transmit on) the HF marine frequencies 'after Coast Guard hours' here at home. (My local Coast Guard holds the appropriate licences for me to operate at my home on both the HF and VHF marine frequencies.) It is nice to be able to do that using the K3 with it's (far) superior reciever in comparison to some (most) of the commercial marine rigs out there. As for the lack of 27MHz transmit capability, that's something that must be taken up with both Elecraft and the FCC as I believe it is due to some of the rather strict rules that are in place re: type approval of any upper HF band transmitter in the US of A. (See Ron AC7AC's rather eloquent reply) BTW, I had a Kenwood TS480SAT before I purchased my K3, it was a pretty good mobile set though it's DSP is woeful. I would not use a 480 at home but in a mobile installation I found that it's hard to beat. (As an aside, my TS480SAT was modified by it's original owner's dealer for continuos coverage TX, including 27MHz though I never used it out of band, apparently it's a quite simple task to do, involving one resistors removal I believe.) 73 de Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF Innisfail, QLD, Australia Elecraft K3# 4257 - Original Message - From: Ron D'Eau Claire To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, December 27, 2010 6:35 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting? Here in the US there are few bootleggers on MARS, etc., but it's been an epidemic on the 11 meter CB band since 11 meters was taken from Amateur and given to CB service. It was quite predictable, given the huge number of Amateur rigs on the used market that covered 11 meters when it was a Ham band. As SSB phased into CB, many bootleggers made money modifying newer Ham gear to cover 11 meters. The draconian regulations covering the ability to modify/operate US Ham rigs and amplifiers on the 11 meter band are an attempt to stem that abuse by providing a clear legal basis to prosecute suppliers of that stuff along with the illegal operators. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- ...Its double standards saying on the one hand that its ok to use the K3 on one particular HF service even though its it illegal, then go onto say that it wont be allowed on the CB service. To me it does not matter since I use a TS480HX and its IMD performance at 100 watts meets spectral purity standards for all HF services at 100 watts of output. The TS480HX is good radio at 100 watts of output. I use my 480HX in both my sailing and flying hobbies and it works great. At least if you wanted to stand on the high moral ground, out of band transmission on any non amateur band on the K3 should not be allowed. You at least would have some credibility on the issue. 73 John --- On Sat, 12/25/10, Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF vk4bof.elecr...@gmail.com wrote: Benjamin, Speaking from experience, the 'wideband' software 'tool' will indeed allow the K3 to transmit outside of most bands but operation on 27MHz is still recieve only even after the usage of said software 'tool'. Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF Innisfail, QLD, Australia Elecraft K3# 4257 __ 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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
Firstly, I do not want to get involved in a debate on what is (and isn't) legal - let's leave it at the technical level. You can (or at least, used to be able to) ask Elecraft for the K3 MARS TX unlock software. Here is the information received from Elecraft: Attached is the program to remove the TX Band limits so you can work MARS. Please note that this program removes *all* TX freq. limits, so it is upon you to make sure you are operating legally at the authorized frequencies. We cannot be held liable for any unauthorized operation. Your K3 also requires a KBPF3 option if you need to tune very much away from the US ham band allocations. The current firmware disables transmitting between 7.5 and 9 MHz at high power so the 8.215MHz trap on the KAT3 or KANT3 is not damaged. Also, the CB band is blocked for transmit at high power. --- After unlocking, it will TX on 27MHz, however only at low power (10-12watts). It will not engage the KPA3 on this band. Andy VK4KY -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-for-wide-band-transmiting-tp5866670p5868279.html Sent from the [K3] 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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
Hello Elecrafters, merry christmas, how can i tune my Elecraft K3 to transmit on ´wide band coverage´ e.g. 11m Band? I know, i need an Software plug-in!? How can i get this? Thanks for a short answer, 73 de Benjamin, DM7ZQ -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-for-wide-band-transmiting-tp5866670p5866670.html Sent from the [K3] 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] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting?
Benjamin, Speaking from experience, the 'wideband' software 'tool' will indeed allow the K3 to transmit outside of most bands but operation on 27MHz is still recieve only even after the usage of said software 'tool'. Jeff Cochrane - VK4BOF Innisfail, QLD, Australia Elecraft K3# 4257 - Original Message - From: DM7ZQ To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Sunday, December 26, 2010 5:18 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3: Mods for wide band transmiting? Hello Elecrafters, merry christmas, how can i tune my Elecraft K3 to transmit on ´wide band coverage´ e.g. 11m Band? I know, i need an Software plug-in!? How can i get this? Thanks for a short answer, 73 de Benjamin, DM7ZQ -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods-for-wide-band-transmiting-tp5866670p5866670.html Sent from the [K3] 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
[Elecraft] K3 - mods for Mars/CAP
We have a gov net that we check into weekly at the EOC here at our installation. It uses frequencies assigned by the NTIA and are near, but slightly below or above the ham bands. Can the K3 be modified to transmit on these frequencies? How? William Conkling Alternate Spectrum Manager LARC/NASA __ 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] K3 - mods for Mars/CAP
Pse send an email to Elecraft support. They have a utility that when run once, will remove out-of-band TX lockouts. You will probably need to install the KBPF3 as well if you don't have one already. 73 de James K2QI --Original Message-- From: n...@widomaker.com Sender: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net To: Elecraft Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] K3 - mods for Mars/CAP Sent: Nov 16, 2010 12:04 We have a gov net that we check into weekly at the EOC here at our installation. It uses frequencies assigned by the NTIA and are near, but slightly below or above the ham bands. Can the K3 be modified to transmit on these frequencies? How? William Conkling Alternate Spectrum Manager LARC/NASA __ 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 Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile __ 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] K3 - mods for Mars/CAP
William, send an e-mail to support at elecraft dot com and they'll provide you with firmware to load using the K3 utility that opens up your K3 for MARS frequencies. Not sure about CAP (Civil Air Patrol?). The FCC forbids the use of any equipment for communications in other services that isn't type-approved for that service other than those specifically approved by the FCC, such as MARS operations. My gosh, is that LARC the Lockheed Amateur Radio Club? I'm an old Lockheed Missiles and Space guy from the 60's, Hi! Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of n...@widomaker.com Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 9:04 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3 - mods for Mars/CAP We have a gov net that we check into weekly at the EOC here at our installation. It uses frequencies assigned by the NTIA and are near, but slightly below or above the ham bands. Can the K3 be modified to transmit on these frequencies? How? William Conkling Alternate Spectrum Manager LARC/NASA __ 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 Mods
Hello everyone, The problems I was having with my K3, no output in data modes and no KEY OUT, were caused by myself. I had the plugs in the wrong jacks. My face is beet red at the moment. Happily, the K3 survived the rough treatment, and everything is working fine now. Many thanks and 73, John, W2GW __ 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 Mods
Hello Everyone, Yesterday, I did the following mods for my K3 #384, running FW 3.99: K3DSPUPGD K3 Negative ALC and External Band Data Pull-up Mod Front Panel Mike Circuit Mod IF Buffer Gain Mod. I was scrupulous about ESD precautions, using a wrist strap and anti-static mat. Before the mods, everything worked perfectly. After the mods, receive seems OK, audio is improved, but I have some problems on transmit: 1) Attempting to transmit RTTY with MMTTY now produces no RF output from the K3. I use AFSK A for RTTY. It seems like I have no T/R switching. Tune, CW and SSB work correctly and produce the expected output levels. 2) The K3 does not key up my ACOM 1000 amp on Tune or CW. It keys the amp OK on SSB when the PTT button on the mike is pressed. It also keys the amp OK in CW mode if the mike PTT button is held down. I checked that VOX is enabled for CW. RTTY produces no output from the amp under any circumstances. I have reloaded FW 3.99, and then went back to version 3.97 (all files), but the problems remain. I have checked and rechecked and rechecked all cable connections to the K3 back panel, as well as my CONFIG and MMTTY settings. Everything looks OK, but I may have missed something. BTW, I don't use ALC with the amp. To summarize the problems: 1) The K3 produces no output in RTTY 2) The Key Out jack (for keying the amp) does not function with VOX. Any ideas? Many thanks and 73, John, W2GW __ 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] K3 Mods
Hi Wes, Good thought! I will check this out tomorrow. Maybe the new DSP audio daughter-board affects the sensitivity of the VOX. If, not, I'm just hopeful that someone has seen these symptoms before and found a solution. Otherwise, I will need to take the rig all apart on Saturday to check that everything is plugged in correctly. I'm pretty sure that it will be a waste of time, because I am a very careful and experienced builder. I carefully checked the pins on the various boards and connectors as I plugged them in. Still, nobody's perfect, so you never can say. I miss my K3. Many thanks for your help and VY 73, John, W2GW - Original Message - From: Wes Stewart To: John E. Reiser Sent: Thursday, June 03, 2010 6:31 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Mods Do you have the Line In (Mic) gain turned up in Data mode? Unlike any other other rig I've owned, the mic gain affects the VOX sensitivity. Wes --- On Thu, 6/3/10, John E. Reiser reis...@optonline.net wrote: From: John E. Reiser reis...@optonline.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3 Mods To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Thursday, June 3, 2010, 2:25 PM Hello Everyone, Yesterday, I did the following mods for my K3 #384, running FW 3.99: K3DSPUPGD K3 Negative ALC and External Band Data Pull-up Mod Front Panel Mike Circuit Mod IF Buffer Gain Mod. I was scrupulous about ESD precautions, using a wrist strap and anti-static mat. Before the mods, everything worked perfectly. After the mods, receive seems OK, audio is improved, but I have some problems on transmit: 1) Attempting to transmit RTTY with MMTTY now produces no RF output from the K3. I use AFSK A for RTTY. It seems like I have no T/R switching. Tune, CW and SSB work correctly and produce the expected output levels. 2) The K3 does not key up my ACOM 1000 amp on Tune or CW. It keys the amp OK on SSB when the PTT button on the mike is pressed. It also keys the amp OK in CW mode if the mike PTT button is held down. I checked that VOX is enabled for CW. RTTY produces no output from the amp under any circumstances. I have reloaded FW 3.99, and then went back to version 3.97 (all files), but the problems remain. I have checked and rechecked and rechecked all cable connections to the K3 back panel, as well as my CONFIG and MMTTY settings. Everything looks OK, but I may have missed something. BTW, I don't use ALC with the amp. To summarize the problems: 1) The K3 produces no output in RTTY 2) The Key Out jack (for keying the amp) does not function with VOX. Any ideas? Many thanks and 73, John, W2GW __ 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] K3 Mods
Hi Mike, NF4L, Another great suggestion! I forgot to check this, and will do so in the morning. Is this net great, or what! Many thanks and VY 73, John - Original Message - From: Mike n...@nf4l.com To: John E. Reiser reis...@optonline.net Sent: Thursday, June 03, 2010 7:51 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Mods Be sure the mark frequency is the same in the K3 as it is in MMTTY. That bit me once. 73, Mike NF4L John E. Reiser wrote: Hello Everyone, Yesterday, I did the following mods for my K3 #384, running FW 3.99: K3DSPUPGD K3 Negative ALC and External Band Data Pull-up Mod Front Panel Mike Circuit Mod IF Buffer Gain Mod. I was scrupulous about ESD precautions, using a wrist strap and anti-static mat. Before the mods, everything worked perfectly. After the mods, receive seems OK, audio is improved, but I have some problems on transmit: 1) Attempting to transmit RTTY with MMTTY now produces no RF output from the K3. I use AFSK A for RTTY. It seems like I have no T/R switching. Tune, CW and SSB work correctly and produce the expected output levels. 2) The K3 does not key up my ACOM 1000 amp on Tune or CW. It keys the amp OK on SSB when the PTT button on the mike is pressed. It also keys the amp OK in CW mode if the mike PTT button is held down. I checked that VOX is enabled for CW. RTTY produces no output from the amp under any circumstances. I have reloaded FW 3.99, and then went back to version 3.97 (all files), but the problems remain. I have checked and rechecked and rechecked all cable connections to the K3 back panel, as well as my CONFIG and MMTTY settings. Everything looks OK, but I may have missed something. BTW, I don't use ALC with the amp. To summarize the problems: 1) The K3 produces no output in RTTY 2) The Key Out jack (for keying the amp) does not function with VOX. Any ideas? Many thanks and 73, John, W2GW __ 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] K3 Mods
As I write I'm camped on 14.080 trying to work E4X on RTTY. My K3 is set to mark=915. I just set MMTTY to 2125 and I get full power on transmit. Remember there was a VOX trip problem too. That should not be affected by the mark freq. It will however, as I wrote to John earlier, be affected by the Line In (Mic) gain setting. This is the only radio I've ever seen where VOX sensitivity is changed by the microphone gain setting. Wes --- On Thu, 6/3/10, John E. Reiser reis...@optonline.net wrote: From: John E. Reiser reis...@optonline.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Mods To: n...@nf4l.com, elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Thursday, June 3, 2010, 6:33 PM Hi Mike, NF4L, Another great suggestion! I forgot to check this, and will do so in the morning. Is this net great, or what! Many thanks and VY 73, John - Original Message - From: Mike n...@nf4l.com To: John E. Reiser reis...@optonline.net Sent: Thursday, June 03, 2010 7:51 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Mods Be sure the mark frequency is the same in the K3 as it is in MMTTY. That bit me once. 73, Mike NF4L John E. Reiser wrote: Hello Everyone, Yesterday, I did the following mods for my K3 #384, running FW 3.99: K3DSPUPGD K3 Negative ALC and External Band Data Pull-up Mod Front Panel Mike Circuit Mod IF Buffer Gain Mod. I was scrupulous about ESD precautions, using a wrist strap and anti-static mat. Before the mods, everything worked perfectly. After the mods, receive seems OK, audio is improved, but I have some problems on transmit: 1) Attempting to transmit RTTY with MMTTY now produces no RF output from the K3. I use AFSK A for RTTY. It seems like I have no T/R switching. Tune, CW and SSB work correctly and produce the expected output levels. 2) The K3 does not key up my ACOM 1000 amp on Tune or CW. It keys the amp OK on SSB when the PTT button on the mike is pressed. It also keys the amp OK in CW mode if the mike PTT button is held down. I checked that VOX is enabled for CW. RTTY produces no output from the amp under any circumstances. I have reloaded FW 3.99, and then went back to version 3.97 (all files), but the problems remain. I have checked and rechecked and rechecked all cable connections to the K3 back panel, as well as my CONFIG and MMTTY settings. Everything looks OK, but I may have missed something. BTW, I don't use ALC with the amp. To summarize the problems: 1) The K3 produces no output in RTTY 2) The Key Out jack (for keying the amp) does not function with VOX. Any ideas? Many thanks and 73, John, W2GW __ 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] K3 mods and updates
I see in the new K3 Assembly manual that there are two new items added since S/N 1567 was born.? The first is for thermal pads that attach to the underside of the LPA transistors where they meet the bottom cover (page 62).? The second is aluminum metal plates/shields for the synthesizer modules of which I have two, one each for the main unit and subRX (page 50).? Are there any upgrade mods available to get these? Dan -- N3ND __ 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] K3 mods and updates
Interesting my synthesizer module has the metal cover over it, but there wasn't the instructions to add the thermal pads on the power transistors (can't remember my K3's serial no. offhand, but I built it a couple months ago). After the misery of having to take the bottom panel off my K2, it was a welcome relief that I didn't have to mess with thermal pads and stuff with my K3 hi hi, just screw the bottom cover on and go! Should I add the thermal pads in any case? 73, LS W5QD -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-and-updates-tp5110146p5110408.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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
Simple two pole devices don't need much engineering to remove, but I would caution against the cut in half with sharp cutters method as it can lead to damaged pads. I can't be bothered creating special tools for two pole devices, just a quick flip with a pair of soldering irons, then use a bit of desolder braid to clean up the pads. What can be quite exciting is the removal of multi-pin devices and for that, Chipquik is a wonderful friend. It's not cheap, but then it's worth using an inch to remove a high pin density chip. The flux they supply is great for cleaning off pads with cotton buds. Chipquik is a great substitute for a hot air desoldering station, see here, (and get your free sample!). http://www.chipquik.com/ 73 DaveL G3TJP __ 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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
Dave, Their video showing surface-mount soldering techniques is double-recorded in the audio channel. Pretty frustrating. Do you know someone there you can tell? --Oliver W6ODJ On 2 Feb 2010, at 3:42 AM, David Lankshear wrote: Simple two pole devices don't need much engineering to remove, but I would caution against the cut in half with sharp cutters method as it can lead to damaged pads. I can't be bothered creating special tools for two pole devices, just a quick flip with a pair of soldering irons, then use a bit of desolder braid to clean up the pads. What can be quite exciting is the removal of multi-pin devices and for that, Chipquik is a wonderful friend. It's not cheap, but then it's worth using an inch to remove a high pin density chip. The flux they supply is great for cleaning off pads with cotton buds. Chipquik is a great substitute for a hot air desoldering station, see here, (and get your free sample!). http://www.chipquik.com/ 73 DaveL G3TJP __ 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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
Dick, You're right. Operator error. Sri. Very well done videos. Oliver W6ODJ On 2 Feb 2010, at 10:30 AM, Dick Dievendorff wrote: I didn't hear double audio. Could you have started the player multiple times? Excellent videos! Dick -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of O. Johns Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 10:01 AM To: David Lankshear Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering Dave, Their video showing surface-mount soldering techniques is double-recorded in the audio channel. Pretty frustrating. Do you know someone there you can tell? --Oliver W6ODJ On 2 Feb 2010, at 3:42 AM, David Lankshear wrote: Simple two pole devices don't need much engineering to remove, but I would caution against the cut in half with sharp cutters method as it can lead to damaged pads. I can't be bothered creating special tools for two pole devices, just a quick flip with a pair of soldering irons, then use a bit of desolder braid to clean up the pads. What can be quite exciting is the removal of multi-pin devices and for that, Chipquik is a wonderful friend. It's not cheap, but then it's worth using an inch to remove a high pin density chip. The flux they supply is great for cleaning off pads with cotton buds. Chipquik is a great substitute for a hot air desoldering station, see here, (and get your free sample!). http://www.chipquik.com/ 73 DaveL G3TJP __ 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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
It's a process, it's easier than you think, and there is plenty of room for creativity. I don't pretend to know it all; this works for me. BASICS: Light up the work area. Get comfortable seating. Buy a pull-down magnifier. Don't skimp here. I use OPTI-VISOR, 3X lenses. Buy 2 of the physically-smallest low-power soldering pencils. Buy a *large* decorative clothes pin. Buy various-length, variously-shaped stainless tweezers. Attach the pencils to the clothes pin. Hose-clamps? Shim the jaws open so the pencil-tips get proper spacing to (just) clear the device, or a skosh less to grab it. OPTIONAL: Take a dose of your favorite relaxation agent grin. Take your time. Practice on junk boards: heat, tweeze, pluck. Now you can remove any smt you can get this contraption on to. Ymmv. No pics available. I'm omitting the green stuff and presenting only basics. Real tools cost BIG bucks. Brgds, Dave, W8FGX -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-mods-and-methods-smt-resistor-capacitor-de-soldering-tp4494881p4494881.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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
I find that the key to removing SMT components like those involved in the mods described is best done with solder-wick and quick movement of one small-tipped iron to both ends of the component. I removed most of the solder with the solder-wick and then alternate heating of both ends of the component until it lifts up from one end. It then becomes a matter of heating the remaining end and plucking the old part off with the iron's tip. Then, clean the pads with the solder wick and install the new component. Being able to see is crucial, and loads of task lighting is helpful. 73, Bob W5OV __ 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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
Bob, I have been successful using that technique, but when there is any difficulty with the solder re-attaching, I slide a THIN knife blade under the first side when the solder melts. The blade must be thin (and must have a sharp edge) so the amount of lift is very small - a thick blade could pull the pad that is still soldered to the board. 73, Don W3FPR Bob Naumann wrote: I find that the key to removing SMT components like those involved in the mods described is best done with solder-wick and quick movement of one small-tipped iron to both ends of the component. I removed most of the solder with the solder-wick and then alternate heating of both ends of the component until it lifts up from one end. It then becomes a matter of heating the remaining end and plucking the old part off with the iron's tip. Then, clean the pads with the solder wick and install the new component. Being able to see is crucial, and loads of task lighting is helpful. 73, Bob W5OV __ 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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
David Windisch wrote: It's a process, it's easier than you think, and there is plenty of room for creativity. I don't pretend to know it all; this works for me. BASICS: Light up the work area. Get comfortable seating. Buy a pull-down magnifier. Don't skimp here. I use OPTI-VISOR, 3X lenses. Buy 2 of the physically-smallest low-power soldering pencils. Buy a *large* decorative clothes pin. Buy various-length, variously-shaped stainless tweezers. Attach the pencils to the clothes pin. Hose-clamps? Shim the jaws open so the pencil-tips get proper spacing to (just) clear the device, or a skosh less to grab it. OPTIONAL: Take a dose of your favorite relaxation agent grin. Take your time. Practice on junk boards: heat, tweeze, pluck. Now you can remove any smt you can get this contraption on to. Ymmv. No pics available. I'm omitting the green stuff and presenting only basics. Real tools cost BIG bucks. I strongly agree about the lighting [1] and magnification - and for serious SMD work, stay off the espresso! But it really isn't necessary to use a double soldering pen to remove a bitty 0603 chip. It goes like this: Use a normal solder pen with a small pointed tip. 1. Melt solder at left-hand end of chip. 2. Switch to right-hand end, melt solder there. 3. Back to left. 4. Ri... Oh, it already came off. Wasn't that easy? [1] For lighting, get one of these - it's brilliant! USA: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50128713 UK: http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/50128708 More info here: http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek/in-prac/best-of.htm#0809 -- 73 from Ian GM3SEK 'In Practice' columnist for RadCom (RSGB) 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] K3 mods and methods: smt resistor/capacitor de-soldering
We've got a tech who is amazing with a soldering iron. He has two very nice soldering irons on the bench next to him at all times. All this guy does is work magic with a soldering iron all day long... His two irons are one with a bit of a cup in the end of the tip (for holding solder) and the other is a smaller pencil type. If he simply wants to remove a small 2 in SMT component he just sets the largest tip over the top of the part and then slides it off the pads. The only time he uses both irons is if he needs to reuse that SMT component. If he's doing that he then just uses the two irons and simply picks the component up with the irons (one in each hand) that way the tweezers aren't needed... Just a few other thoughts... ~BTH On Mon, 2010-02-01 at 07:13 -0800, David Windisch wrote: It's a process, it's easier than you think, and there is plenty of room for creativity. I don't pretend to know it all; this works for me. BASICS: Light up the work area. Get comfortable seating. Buy a pull-down magnifier. Don't skimp here. I use OPTI-VISOR, 3X lenses. Buy 2 of the physically-smallest low-power soldering pencils. Buy a *large* decorative clothes pin. Buy various-length, variously-shaped stainless tweezers. Attach the pencils to the clothes pin. Hose-clamps? Shim the jaws open so the pencil-tips get proper spacing to (just) clear the device, or a skosh less to grab it. OPTIONAL: Take a dose of your favorite relaxation agent grin. Take your time. Practice on junk boards: heat, tweeze, pluck. Now you can remove any smt you can get this contraption on to. Ymmv. No pics available. I'm omitting the green stuff and presenting only basics. Real tools cost BIG bucks. Brgds, Dave, W8FGX __ 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 mods
Yesterday I overcame my fears :-) and successfully performed the following mods on my K3 (S/N 1672): K3 AF Mod (Line out speaker) IF Output Buffer Gain Mod K3 Extreme Signal RX Protection Mod But, I was not able to perform the K3 AF Output Mod (two 470 ohm resistors on the KIO3 board). I found it impossible to hold the resistor in place will soldering to the connector pins. Does anyone have any suggestions on techniques for installing these resistors? Steve N9SZ __ 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 Mods needed
I have a K3 from the first batch that needs a small number of modifications. Due to some physical problems, I am unable to do them myself. I'm looking for someone within reasonable driving distance of Baltimore MD who can do the modifications for me. Thanks in advance. Thom k3hrn __ 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: Mods/Additions..Suggestions for order of install please.
I'm ready and have all mods (diodes, AF output, Audio Line) and the I/O board upgrade, KXV3 and KRX3 ready to go. Want to attack this without having to keep removing things over and over. Should the (diodes, AF output, Audio Line) mods go first, then the I/O board upgrade, KXV3 next and then save the KRX3 for last since it looks like the most complex? Or.? I'm sure a few of you have been through this. Thanks. Jay, W6JDB K3# 1288. __ 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] K3: Mods/Additions..Suggestions for order of install please.
I'm ready and have all mods (diodes, AF output, Audio Line) and the I/O board upgrade, KXV3 and KRX3 ready to go. This might help but it doesn't include installing a KXV3 and KRX3: http://mailman.qth.net/pipermail/elecraft/2009-February/105704.html 73, Bill -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3%3A-Mods-Additions..Suggestions-for-order-of-install-please.-tp2595278p2595912.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] K3 Mods
Gary, If you Just can't do those mods by yourself for some reason, and you need some help. I will be happy to do your mods for free. You will be responsible to pay the shipping to and from the states for the required boards, but the mods (other then normal parts prices) will be free of charge. Just let me know off reflector. And no, I don't work for Elecraft... Michael N6MQL notforc...@hotmail.com _ See how Windows connects the people, information, and fun that are part of your life. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093175mrt/direct/01/__ 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 Mods - Unauthorized Shortcuts
I finally got around to installing mods in units #1361 and #2183. The latter only needed a few mods but #1361 (including KRX3) needed the following: K3 AF Mod (K3AFMDKT) K3 Synthesizer ALC K3 AF Output KPA3 12V Sense Front Panel Mike Circuit Rear Panel RS-232/Audio RFI Immunity These shortcuts (not authorized by Elecraft) worked for me in the following order: 1. I did the RFC47 part of K3 AF Mod (K3AFMDKT) first by removing the top and bottom front covers. As others have previously noted, it's possible to remove RFC47 from the bottom without removing the KRX3 to gain access to the top side of the board. I used a Radio Shack solder sucker to remove solder from the bottom holes but my existing RFC47 did not drop out the other side as some have reported. I used a fine point to push the leads down and then grabbed the RFC with needlenose pliers from the top side. Once RFC47 is removed, it's a simple job to install the new one in the existing holes on the bottom side. Later you'll install the resistors that go on KIO3 when you get to step 5 below. 2. While you have the bottom front cover off, you can install N8LP's R8/R9 mod to improve IF out sensitivity (see the LP-PAN Yahoo group files for more info) and also, if you have an older unit, the Hardware AGC and CW Keying Rise Time mods since they are in the same area of the RF Board exposed by removing the bottom front cover. When you finish, reinstall the bottom front cover. 3. To do the Synthesizer ALC mod, you add a 180k leaded resistor to the synthesizer board(s) mounted on the front panel. By carefully cutting and forming the resistor leads, it's possible to insert them into existing holes on the synthesizer board(s) and then carefully solder each end, making sure that the leads extending through the boards are not long enough to short to the front shield. In my case I also removed the top TMP cable from the left (KRX3) board to avoid the possibility of nicking it with my soldering iron. I felt this was much easier than removing the KRX3 and synthesizer board(s) per the instructions. CAUTION: If you're not sure this mod has been done, you'll need to remove the synthesizer board(s) to confirm that R10 on the board has not already been changed to 56k. With the boards in place, you cannot confirm this by measurements alone. I was sure my synthesizer boards had not been modified because of the age of my units. 4. Next I removed the left side cover (with the handle) to expose the back side of the front panel MIC connector. To install the Front Panel MIC modification, you need to ground Pin 7 by running an insulated wire from it to a nearby ground as shown in the mod instructions (right side of Fig 11). If you have a thin soldering iron, it's possible to do this without disassembling the front panel (which is a pain to reassemble). Confirm that you have not shorted any adjacent pins and also check the the center pin of the MIC connector shows a short to the outer shell. Leave the top and side covers off. 5. Now remove the KIO3 and install all the components as instructed in the K3AFMDKT, Rear Panel RFI Immunity and AF Amplifier Output mods. I found it easier to remove KIO3 with the side cover off after step 4 to avoid interference with a TMP cable going to the KXV3's IF OUT. After you finish the side and top covers can be reinstalled. 6. The 12V Sense mod can be done by removing the 4 screws holding the fan assembly and letting it drop enough to give you access to install the diode on the KPA3. The procedure above is NOT AUTHORIZED by Elecraft and you shouldn't attempt it unless you have the proper equipment (a thin ESD-safe soldering iron like the CSI/Hakko 936, good lighting, magnifying visor, ESD work surface, etc) and soldering experience. But it worked for me and might be of some help to others. Proceed at your own risk! 73, Bill W4ZV -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods---Unauthorized-Shortcuts-tp2337168p2337168.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] K3 Mods - Unauthorized Shortcuts
Bill Wrote: 6. The 12V Sense mod can be done by removing the 4 screws holding the fan assembly and letting it drop enough to give you access to install the diode on the KPA3. The procedure above is NOT AUTHORIZED by Elecraft and you shouldn't attempt it unless you have the proper equipment (a thin ESD-safe soldering iron like the CSI/Hakko 936, good lighting, magnifying visor, ESD work surface, etc) and soldering experience. But it worked for me and might be of some help to others. Proceed at your own risk! --- Surely Bill was referring one of the other procedures he noted. The 12V Sense mod *recommends* only removing the fan panel assembly. No further disassembly is needed. All of the procedures are written with one key point in mind: showing how the job can be done with common tools in the safest possible manner. The goal is to avoid someone smoking a part, causing damage to a board or creating hidden damage that requires troubleshooting and additional repairs, all in the interest of trying to save a few minutes in the first place. The procedures in the assembly manuals and modification documents are tested on actual equipment with that goal in mind. Certainly, there are many ways to do most things, based on an individual's experience, tools and preferences. Sometimes that's covered in the document, such as when we show making a circuit change using either SMDs or leaded parts. But, of course, those are only a few of the many variations one might employ when deciding how to do a mod. 73, Ron AC7AC __ 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] K3 Mods - Unauthorized Shortcuts
Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: Bill Wrote: 6. The 12V Sense mod can be done by removing the 4 screws holding the fan assembly and letting it drop enough to give you access to install the diode on the KPA3. The procedure above is NOT AUTHORIZED by Elecraft and you shouldn't attempt it unless you have the proper equipment (a thin ESD-safe soldering iron like the CSI/Hakko 936, good lighting, magnifying visor, ESD work surface, etc) and soldering experience. But it worked for me and might be of some help to others. Proceed at your own risk! --- Surely Bill was referring one of the other procedures he noted. The 12V Sense mod *recommends* only removing the fan panel assembly. No further disassembly is needed. Yes my caveat was for all of the above. :-) 73, Bill -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-Mods---Unauthorized-Shortcuts-tp2337168p2337487.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] K3 Mods
I really don't want to delve into my K3 with a slodering iron and a baggie full of bits and pieces. So how about Elecraft offering a board swap for those of us who do not wish to do the mods themselves. Interestingly enough I sent this request direct to Elecraft and as yet I have had no reply. Australia is quite a long drive from Aptos and the cost of posting the whole radio back to the US is a costly option. I for one would simply sell the radio instead and think about a repalcemnet rig later if the hardware revisions were needed to the point where the radio was unable to do the job it was purchased for. This is not the case of course as the K3 has performed flawlessly to date and has exceeded my humble expectations, bit having said that, I would like to bring it up to the latest specs with the mods that are now included with the current shipments. Gary K3 S/N 679.MCU V2.82 (Deeply burrowed inside my bunker now) Sent via BlackBerry® from Telstra __ 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] K3 Mods
rfenab...@gmail.com wrote: I really don't want to delve into my K3 with a slodering iron and a baggie full of bits and pieces. So how about Elecraft offering a board swap for those of us who do not wish to do the mods themselves. Hi Gary, We'll be happy to swap any module that you don't want to modify yourself. You can email k3supp...@elecraft.com) and make any necessary arrangements. However, I think you'll find that all of the mods are simple and easy to make, if you'd like to make any of them yourself. The RF board is a special case. Swapping it out would be a factor of 10 more difficult than any of the minor mods you might need to do. Fortunately (taking into considering that the K3 has been shipping for barely a year and a half), there have been very few mods. Whether any mods are required at all depends on your needs and the rig's time of manufacture. Again, K3 support can help you determine what is applicable, or give you further assistance on any mod. If any of the documentation is lacking, or you have trouble getting any of the parts in a timely fashion, please e-mail me directly and I'll expedite whatever action is necessary. 73, Wayne --- http://www.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 This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Mods -- Important clarification
I wrote: We'll be happy to swap any module that you don't want to modify yourself. You can email k3supp...@elecraft.com) and make any necessary arrangements. However, I think you'll find that all of the mods are simple and easy to make, if you'd like to make any of them yourself. I need to clarify this. First, there is a charge if we make a modification for you, or send you a replacement module. Second, in most cases you can make the needed arrangements by contacting sales. Our K3 mods page has the information you need to determine whether a mod is necessary, so you usually won't need to contact k3support. 73, Wayne N6KR --- http://www.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 This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 Mods or Updates
I was just curious if there have been any mods to the K3 Since June of Last year other than firmware. My unit still needs to have the Mic ground mod done. I ask this as my KRX3 is shipping so I will have the K3 open. I downloaded all the new manuals etc. Mike W0MU __ 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 Mods
Hello Julian, My K3 serial number is 323 and I needed some of the mods. The CW keying rise time reduction mod was factory installed. However the RXA mod kit for the KXV3 had to be added, and the HAGC mod kit also had to be added. I installed the SMT components. This kit comes with both SMT and through-the-hole components. Best 73, Roy Morris W4WFB ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 mods arrived
HAGC and CWRISE mods arrived in NJ today. Ordered (oh no) April 1, shipped April 8..and I didn't use FedEx (why heed my own warnings?). de Doug KR2Q ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
Well, all this talk of mods got me wondering and I liek some opinions from this group - I KNOW some of you know a lot about solder. Resin core solder - thats not acid flux is it? Most of my solder came from my time with electronics in defense over 30 years ago. I have 2 reels that are labelled: Ersin non-corrosive flux made by Ersin Multicore Solder and has 362 Flux, DTD599, BS441, Type 1 written on the label. This is 18 SWG, .048, 1.2mm (this is a time when you got told every which way) The other roll is only 2 years old, is from RS (that's Radio Spares in UK) but made by Multicore and supposedly low temp (melts at 183 C). It has 'Crystal 400 60/40 Tin/Lead EN29453, S-Sn60Pb40E on it and is 0.7mm So I'm guessing that the later would be preferable for use on the K3 and on my XV144 which I'm about to start. 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 -- Black holes are where God divided by zero. -Steven Wright, comedian (1955-) ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
At 0315 EST on Wednesday April 2nd 2008 David Ferrington (M0XDF) wrote ... ... I KNOW some of you know a lot about solder. ... -- Hi Dave, Your 60/40 solder could possibly result in what are referred to as cold or disturbed solder joints. If I were you I'd only use that stuff for non-electrical hobby projects such as leaded glass, and jewelry. For best results I would suggest eutectic solder which is an alloy composed of 63% tin and 37% lead. In addition to it's having a lower melting point, it also transitions pretty much instantly from a liquid to a solid, without any intervening plastic state. In addition your .048 solder is much to thick for SMD work. I suggest something in the neighborhood of 0.020, plus or minus 0.005. (You need to match your solder size to your task, being careful that the solder isn't too fine as this could result the flux burning off before it does its job, which is to clean the surfaces to be soldered of any oxidation.) Regarding the flux, your best bet is a mildly activated rosin core flux. FYI, here mildly activated is a reference to the temperature at which the rosin melts (so that it can do it's job). DO NOT USE WATER SOLUBLE FLUX AS YOU WILL VOID THE WARRANTY OF WHATEVER IT TOUCHES! WATER SOLUBLE FLUX IS HIGHLY CORROSIVE AND HYDROSCOPIC. NEVER EVER USE IT WITH INSULATED WIRE (ESPECIALLY STRANDED) AS IT WILL WICK UP UNDER THE INSULATION WHERE IT CAN'T BE COMPLETELY REMOVED. OVER TIME IT WILL EAT RIGHT THROUGH THE WIRE! SIMILARLY DO NOT USE ACID CORE SOLDER! No-clean fluxes are okay, but they have a higher activation temperature and you should have some experience with them before using them on something as expensive as the K3. The advantage of no clean fluxes is that they only leave about 3% of the residue left by a traditional rosin flux. BTW, I won't even go into the subject of whether or not to remove the flux and how to go about doing that. If you are interested you can see my previous post on this subject in the archives here ... http://mailman.qth.net/pipermail/elecraft/2005-November/049886.html 73, Gary KI4GGX P.S. I don't know a lot about solder, but I work with someone who does! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
ok, thanks for that, the latest RS stuff says: Crystal 400 60/40 Tin/Lead EN29453, S-Sn60Pb40E the Elecraft HAGC mod instructions for SMD say 63/37 or 60/40 Sn/Pb-content rosin-core solder, 0.015 to 0.025 diameter so my S-Sn60Pb40E looks like thats the same alloy, not sure what the 'E' means. it's 0.7mm, which is 0.027559055 (ok, conversion widget!) so although thats a little over (by 0.002!) that would look to be ok. I failed to mention that I have done a fair amount of soldering in my time (taught as an electronics apprentice and worked in defense electronics for 8 years), so don't have a problem with soldering. I just didn't know about the make up of the solder - but of course 'clicked' after your post. Thank you Gary 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 -- Those who walk bravely through life, unafraid of loss or failure, find that they very rarely lose or fail. On 2 Apr 2008, at 11:27, Gary Hvizdak wrote: At 0315 EST on Wednesday April 2nd 2008 David Ferrington (M0XDF) wrote ... ... I KNOW some of you know a lot about solder. ... -- Hi Dave, Your 60/40 solder could possibly result in what are referred to as cold or disturbed solder joints. If I were you I'd only use that stuff for non-electrical hobby projects such as leaded glass, and jewelry. For best results I would suggest eutectic solder which is an alloy composed of 63% tin and 37% lead. In addition to it's having a lower melting point, it also transitions pretty much instantly from a liquid to a solid, without any intervening plastic state. In addition your .048 solder is much to thick for SMD work. I suggest something in the neighborhood of 0.020, plus or minus 0.005. (You need to match your solder size to your task, being careful that the solder isn't too fine as this could result the flux burning off before it does its job, which is to clean the surfaces to be soldered of any oxidation.) Regarding the flux, your best bet is a mildly activated rosin core flux. FYI, here mildly activated is a reference to the temperature at which the rosin melts (so that it can do it's job). DO NOT USE WATER SOLUBLE FLUX AS YOU WILL VOID THE WARRANTY OF WHATEVER IT TOUCHES! WATER SOLUBLE FLUX IS HIGHLY CORROSIVE AND HYDROSCOPIC. NEVER EVER USE IT WITH INSULATED WIRE (ESPECIALLY STRANDED) AS IT WILL WICK UP UNDER THE INSULATION WHERE IT CAN'T BE COMPLETELY REMOVED. OVER TIME IT WILL EAT RIGHT THROUGH THE WIRE! SIMILARLY DO NOT USE ACID CORE SOLDER! No-clean fluxes are okay, but they have a higher activation temperature and you should have some experience with them before using them on something as expensive as the K3. The advantage of no clean fluxes is that they only leave about 3% of the residue left by a traditional rosin flux. BTW, I won't even go into the subject of whether or not to remove the flux and how to go about doing that. If you are interested you can see my previous post on this subject in the archives here ... http://mailman.qth.net/pipermail/elecraft/2005-November/049886.html 73, Gary KI4GGX P.S. I don't know a lot about solder, but I work with someone who does! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
Some years ago when I was a Materials Engineer for Hewlett Packard, solder was one of my categories. The purpose of flux is to reduce (eat away) the oxide coating on the copper so the solder can stick to it and also as a wetting agent to reduce the surface tension of the molten solder and to prevent oxygen from contacting the metal while soldering is taking place. There are three main types: Acid flux is the type used by plumbers for soldering pipes and should never be used for electronic work. Water-soluble flux is OK for electronic work only if it is washed off after the soldering job is complete. Rosin flux is the type normally used for hand-soldering electronic assemblies. It comes in various activity levels. Fully-activated (RA) flux works the best but is the most corrosive. Mildly-activated (RMA) flux is what is usually used. RMA flux does not need to be removed after soldering - the rosin seals in the activator where it can do no harm. However, if you do decide to remove it using alcohol or some other solvent, it is very important that it be removed completely. If you leave a film of left-over flux on the board it can cause long-term corrosion. Lead-free solder is all the rage now as it is required in Europe for environmental reasons. However, standard tin-lead solder is easier to use (lower melting temperature) and cheaper so I recommend it for hobby use. If you're worried about lead poisoning, wash your hands after use. Plumbers use a 50/50 tin-lead alloy. It is cheaper than electronic solder and has a temperature range where it is kind of pasty, neither solid or liquid, which is useful when soldering pipes. For electronics use, you want 60/40 or 63/37. The 63/37 is eutectic which means there is no pasty range - it changes directly from solid to liquid at 360 degF (182 degC). The 60/40 alloy has a slightly higher melting point but is so close to eutectic that you won't notice the difference. The 0.048-inch diameter solder is fine for soldering through-hole components, but would be a bit awkward for surface-mount parts, especially the small ones. Your 0.028-inch/0.7-mm stuff would probably work better. I use 0.014-inch (0.36 mm) rosin-core solder which is adequate even for fine-pitch ICs. Al N1AL On Wed, 2008-04-02 at 00:15, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: Well, all this talk of mods got me wondering and I liek some opinions from this group - I KNOW some of you know a lot about solder. Resin core solder - thats not acid flux is it? Most of my solder came from my time with electronics in defense over 30 years ago. I have 2 reels that are labelled: Ersin non-corrosive flux made by Ersin Multicore Solder and has 362 Flux, DTD599, BS441, Type 1 written on the label. This is 18 SWG, .048, 1.2mm (this is a time when you got told every which way) The other roll is only 2 years old, is from RS (that's Radio Spares in UK) but made by Multicore and supposedly low temp (melts at 183 C). It has 'Crystal 400 60/40 Tin/Lead EN29453, S-Sn60Pb40E on it and is 0.7mm So I'm guessing that the later would be preferable for use on the K3 and on my XV144 which I'm about to start. 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
Alan Bloom wrote: Water-soluble flux is OK for electronic work only if it is washed off after the soldering job is complete. It's very hard to wash off completely and is usually used for mechanized soldering. It's not recommended by Elecraft. If you don't wash it off completely, what's left absorbs moisture from the air and becomes conductive. Lead-free solder is all the rage now as it is required in Europe for environmental reasons. However, standard tin-lead solder is easier to use (lower melting temperature) and cheaper so I recommend it for hobby use. If you're worried about lead poisoning, wash your hands after use. There are also issues with long-term stability of lead-free solder (it grows whiskers) and other problems. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
Thanks much, very informative and useful. 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 -- A good cook is like a sorceress who dispenses happiness. -Elsa Schiaparelli, fashion designer (1890-1973) On 2 Apr 2008, at 17:23, Alan Bloom wrote: Some years ago when I was a Materials Engineer for Hewlett Packard, solder was one of my categories. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
Will this thread ever die a graceful death? - Original Message - From: Vic K2VCO [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, April 02, 2008 11:37 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder Alan Bloom wrote: Water-soluble flux is OK for electronic work only if it is washed off after the soldering job is complete. It's very hard to wash off completely and is usually used for mechanized soldering. It's not recommended by Elecraft. If you don't wash it off completely, what's left absorbs moisture from the air and becomes conductive. Lead-free solder is all the rage now as it is required in Europe for environmental reasons. However, standard tin-lead solder is easier to use (lower melting temperature) and cheaper so I recommend it for hobby use. If you're worried about lead poisoning, wash your hands after use. There are also issues with long-term stability of lead-free solder (it grows whiskers) and other problems. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] [K3] - mods and solder
Vic wrote: It's (water soluable flux) very hard to wash off completely and is usually used for mechanized soldering. It's not recommended by Elecraft. If you don't wash it off completely, what's left absorbs moisture from the air and becomes conductive. - From what I've read it also remains corrosive at room temperature, just like acid flux, with the same results as using acid flux on a board: it'll eat the traces to bits over a few months time. Ron AC7AC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
