Re: [Elecraft] New ham and the KX3
Sean, You don't even need a computer interface with the kx3. Buy the $19 cable set elecraft sells for this purpose and your ready to rock. I am using my new kx3 with nothing more than audio in/out to my laptop and the included USB cable for control via HRD. Works great. I managed a 5 watt FeldHELL contact from CO to IL on 20m with a simple dipole tossed out my office second story window. Steve AD0ES On Feb 26, 2014, at 10:00 AM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote: Re: [Elecraft] New ham and the KX3 I see that you plan on starting with phone because you are learning code. Let me suggest that you add PSK31 to your beginnings. It is a mode that really works well at low powers and it's really easy to set up. You will need a way to interface your computer to the radio, but that is easy. A interface like the SignaLink USB will make it almost mindless; they have the cable you will need. The whole package is $100. The __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Yep. I operate RTTY/PSK/JT65 in DATA A/AFSK mode with my K3 using 2 $5 stereo cables from Radio Shack, and N1MM, MixW, or WSJT. I did it for quite awhile with my K2 -- headphone jack to soundcard LINE IN and soundcard LINE OUT to the mic connector through a little T-pad I built into the cable with 3 resistors and some shrink wrap. Sometime back, there was an increase in the number of posts to this list with digital problems and issues. I started counting [sorry, math major here :-)] and over 90% involved problems with some an external interface box, creation of virtual serial ports and sometimes a combination of external devices and software. Since the K3/KX3 generates the ultimate FSK in computer code in the DSP, there is exactly zero difference between AFSK and direct FSK in the RF output. AFSK is quite a bit simpler to connect up however. PTT issues also come up fairly frequently ... DATA A/AFSK [in the K3] allows you to just use VOX -- totally painless. 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2014 Cal QSO Party 4-5 Oct 2014 - www.cqp.org On 2/27/2014 6:50 AM, AD0ES wrote: Sean, You don't even need a computer interface with the kx3. Buy the $19 cable set elecraft sells for this purpose and your ready to rock. I am using my new kx3 with nothing more than audio in/out to my laptop and the included USB cable for control via HRD. Works great. I managed a 5 watt FeldHELL contact from CO to IL on 20m with a simple dipole tossed out my office second story window. Steve AD0ES __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, Welcome to ham radio! You'll absolutely be able to make QSOs with 10 watts and a Buddipole on 10 meters (and sometimes 6 meters when the band is open). However, I think you've been given good counsel to try something else if you're at all handy or technically-inclined. The absolute best way to get help when you're space-constrained is to invite a couple of nearby hams over to look at your options. There's a high probability that they will see things about your property that you don't. A few generalities that you may not have fully appreciated yet: 1. 6m and 10m are fun bands, but they aren't open a whole lot of the time, all things considered. We're on the declining side of a relatively weak solar maximum right now. So, 10m has been open during the day a lot. Moving toward (northern) summer, we'll start seeing some sporadic-E. I don't expect to have daily F2 (read: good DX propagation) on 10m again after this winter. 2. In light of the above and not telling us when/how you want to operate, it would be sensible to consider antennas for 40-6 or 30-6, just to have some flexibility. If you have the luxury to let ham radio dictate your life schedule, disregard that. 3. A contrarian thought and goal: Once you can put up dipoles at least 1/2 wavelength high and in the clear, it starts to get more expensive to add to your antenna system than it does to add power. So, assuming you can hear the station(s) you want to work, you'll often get more from adding an amplifier than you do making a better antenna. I've operated QRP and I've operated QRO. While QRP is rewarding, I find that I like QRO better. :) Good luck and have fun... 73, --Ethan, K8GU/3. On Tue, Feb 25, 2014 at 7:23 PM, Sean Wall seancw...@gmail.com wrote: Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean Sent from my iPad __ 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 -- http://www.k8gu.com/ Repair. Re-use. Re-purpose. Recycle. __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Hi folks, I want to thank everyone who offered advice, it's invaluable to a new ham like myself! I've settled on the KX3 -- I like the fact that it's versatile enough to be a decent base station and it can go on the road with me. Plus, it seems that it has a lot of features that you generally see on more expensive rigs. The SDR aspect also appeals to me as I'm a nerd and I'd like to experiment with SDR applications on my laptop. I do software development with a masters in electrical engineering, so I'm not worried about the KX3 being overly complex. I'll figure it out eventually, I think. :D The one definite take-away which was clear to me is it's all about the antenna. I'm considering other antennas other than the Buddipole now. The current front runner is the LNR End Fed 10/20/40 wire antenna. I like it because you tune it for 40 m and 10/20 should fall into place. Also, you can remove the supplied radiator and attach a new one to tune in other bands. It's also a heck of a lot cheaper than a Buddipole. (Not to disparage the BP -- I've read a lot of good reviews about it -- but I'd rather go with something simpler and less expensive right now.) I haven't looked into the magnetic loop antennas yet, but I'll get to that. One question though -- the LNR site said no antenna tuner is needed or recommended, which makes sense in this case. I was still considering getting the optional antenna tuner for the KX3, but can you disable it in the settings if you don't want to use it? I received about equal number of responses on either side of the 10w/100w fence. Once again, it seemed to boil down to it won't make a lot of difference if you don't have a good antenna to start with. I'll stick with 10w for now, and I can get the 100w amp later. BTW - I plan on initially using phone as I'm still learning Morse, but I would like get to get into CW at some point. Also, I do plan on joining a local ham club. There are several in my area so that should be no problem. If they're all as friendly and accommodating as you folks, I should have no problem getting help. :) Thanks again everyone! 73 - Sean (call sign not in the ULS database yet - should be this week!!) __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Depending on the money resources you can draw upon, I would suggest getting the built in tuner option for the KX3. It really frees you up in mobile and portable situations where you are merely stringing a wire up into a nearby tree with another wire laying on the ground as counterpoise. And, CW rocks! Put the time into CW so you can get on the air and start operating even if you are limping along. Your CW speed will pick up when you operate -- more so then using some practice method. Always listen to stations on CW when you are learning even if you can only pick out a few letters. Definitely listen guys who are faster than you even if you can't pick out stuff. CW contests are great in practicing to pick out call signs at higher speeds. 73, phil, k7peh On Feb 26, 2014, at 6:18 AM, Sean Wall seancw...@gmail.com wrote: Hi folks, I want to thank everyone who offered advice, it's invaluable to a new ham like myself! I've settled on the KX3 -- I like the fact that it's versatile enough to be a decent base station and it can go on the road with me. Plus, it seems that it has a lot of features that you generally see on more expensive rigs. The SDR aspect also appeals to me as I'm a nerd and I'd like to experiment with SDR applications on my laptop. I do software development with a masters in electrical engineering, so I'm not worried about the KX3 being overly complex. I'll figure it out eventually, I think. :D The one definite take-away which was clear to me is it's all about the antenna. I'm considering other antennas other than the Buddipole now. The current front runner is the LNR End Fed 10/20/40 wire antenna. I like it because you tune it for 40 m and 10/20 should fall into place. Also, you can remove the supplied radiator and attach a new one to tune in other bands. It's also a heck of a lot cheaper than a Buddipole. (Not to disparage the BP -- I've read a lot of good reviews about it -- but I'd rather go with something simpler and less expensive right now.) I haven't looked into the magnetic loop antennas yet, but I'll get to that. One question though -- the LNR site said no antenna tuner is needed or recommended, which makes sense in this case. I was still considering getting the optional antenna tuner for the KX3, but can you disable it in the settings if you don't want to use it? I received about equal number of responses on either side of the 10w/100w fence. Once again, it seemed to boil down to it won't make a lot of difference if you don't have a good antenna to start with. I'll stick with 10w for now, and I can get the 100w amp later. BTW - I plan on initially using phone as I'm still learning Morse, but I would like get to get into CW at some point. Also, I do plan on joining a local ham club. There are several in my area so that should be no problem. If they're all as friendly and accommodating as you folks, I should have no problem getting help. :) Thanks again everyone! 73 - Sean (call sign not in the ULS database yet - should be this week!!) __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, I see that you plan on starting with phone because you are learning code. Let me suggest that you add PSK31 to your beginnings. It is a mode that really works well at low powers and it's really easy to set up. You will need a way to interface your computer to the radio, but that is easy. A interface like the SignaLink USB will make it almost mindless; they have the cable you will need. The whole package is $100. The software is free. There are other digital modes that you'll be able to use the interface with, but they aren't as popular. Between PSK31 and eventually CW, you should be able to pick up a mixed mode DXCC if you put the time in. Have fun! 73, Barry K3NDM On 2/26/2014 9:18 AM, Sean Wall wrote: Hi folks, I want to thank everyone who offered advice, it's invaluable to a new ham like myself! I've settled on the KX3 -- I like the fact that it's versatile enough to be a decent base station and it can go on the road with me. Plus, it seems that it has a lot of features that you generally see on more expensive rigs. The SDR aspect also appeals to me as I'm a nerd and I'd like to experiment with SDR applications on my laptop. I do software development with a masters in electrical engineering, so I'm not worried about the KX3 being overly complex. I'll figure it out eventually, I think. :D The one definite take-away which was clear to me is it's all about the antenna. I'm considering other antennas other than the Buddipole now. The current front runner is the LNR End Fed 10/20/40 wire antenna. I like it because you tune it for 40 m and 10/20 should fall into place. Also, you can remove the supplied radiator and attach a new one to tune in other bands. It's also a heck of a lot cheaper than a Buddipole. (Not to disparage the BP -- I've read a lot of good reviews about it -- but I'd rather go with something simpler and less expensive right now.) I haven't looked into the magnetic loop antennas yet, but I'll get to that. One question though -- the LNR site said no antenna tuner is needed or recommended, which makes sense in this case. I was still considering getting the optional antenna tuner for the KX3, but can you disable it in the settings if you don't want to use it? I received about equal number of responses on either side of the 10w/100w fence. Once again, it seemed to boil down to it won't make a lot of difference if you don't have a good antenna to start with. I'll stick with 10w for now, and I can get the 100w amp later. BTW - I plan on initially using phone as I'm still learning Morse, but I would like get to get into CW at some point. Also, I do plan on joining a local ham club. There are several in my area so that should be no problem. If they're all as friendly and accommodating as you folks, I should have no problem getting help. :) Thanks again everyone! 73 - Sean (call sign not in the ULS database yet - should be this week!!) __ 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] New ham and the KX3
The problem with that suggestion is that the Tech licensee can only use PSK31 on 10 meters. The 80, 40, and 15 meter allocations are for CW only. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/26/2014 11:10 AM, Barry LaZar wrote: Sean, I see that you plan on starting with phone because you are learning code. Let me suggest that you add PSK31 to your beginnings. It is a mode that really works well at low powers and it's really easy to set up. You will need a way to interface your computer to the radio, but that is easy. A interface like the SignaLink USB will make it almost mindless; they have the cable you will need. The whole package is $100. The software is free. There are other digital modes that you'll be able to use the interface with, but they aren't as popular. Between PSK31 and eventually CW, you should be able to pick up a mixed mode DXCC if you put the time in. Have fun! __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Ethan is right, 6 and 10-meters are fun! One thing to remember, Sean, 6-meters can, and does, open almost anytime, especially when we have occurrences of solar flares. I operated from Ecuador last year and worked many US stations running the K3, at 100 watts, and a one-wavelength loop antenna. These typical Spring-time trans-equatorial openings were good enough that a power level of 10 watts would have allowed me to work more than 80% of the stations. A large number of stations worked were in Florida so you are nicely located for such openings. You can put up decent temporary antennas for 6, like the one wavelength loop, pretty easily since the antennas will be relatively small. My loop was made of whatever wire was available at the hardware store at El Paseo Shopping Center in Santa Elena and 1/2-inch PVC pipe. And, as an additional advantage, the antenna tuner on the K3 was able to tune the loop for use on 10-meters, too. I'm sure the KX3 tuner will do the same. Six meters is known as the magic band for good reason and, since you already have your Tech license, you can partake of the fun right away! 73, Jack, W6Nf/VE4SNA/HC2UA/P40NF On 2/26/2014 3:47 AM, Ethan Miller K8GU wrote: Sean, Welcome to ham radio! snip 1. 6m and 10m are fun bands, but they aren't open a whole lot of the time, all things considered. We're on the declining side of a relatively weak solar maximum right now. So, 10m has been open during the day a lot. Moving toward (northern) summer, we'll start seeing some sporadic-E. I don't expect to have daily F2 (read: good DX propagation) on 10m again after this winter. Snip --Ethan, K8GU/3. On Tue, Feb 25, 2014 at 7:23 PM, Sean Wall seancw...@gmail.com wrote: Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean Sent from my iPad __ 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 --- This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active. http://www.avast.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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, I think you'll love that KX3! I've had it's big brother K3 for almost four years; this past Christmas my XYL got me a KX3. I've added only the internal tuner (and battery pack/charger for camping trips) and have been having a blast with it. In fact, I can count on one hand the number of QSO's I've had using the K3 in the past two months! Like you, I also live in an development that has rules in the CCR's about no ham radio antennas. That did not stop me from being stealthy. The most successful antenna I've put up is a simple 88-foot long doublet, fed with over 100 feet of 450 ohm ladder line. I have about 10 feet of RG8-X coax running from the back of the rig to an outside 4:1 balun and the ladder line connects to it. I used to be a windsurfer when I lived in the SF Bay Area and had a left over 18 foot long fiberglass pole. I strapped it to one of our fireplace chimneys on an upstairs patio, with the tip about 45 feet up. The doublet is made from that #26 silky coat wire that another poster mentioned. My wires go out mostly horizontally, through the trees, across limbs, etc. The tuner in the KX3 is great - it matches that antenna to nearly 1:1 on 80 - 6 meters, no problems. As a matter of fact, this past Sunday evening I worked CE3/OZ1AA in Chile on 20 meter CW with this KX3 and I was only running 11 w atts. I do have the capability to have the KX3 drive an Elecraft KPA500 amp, but seldom use it - almost all barefoot QSO's. So, the bottom line is, like many other posters have said - it isn't the watts you need - it is an efficient antenna. I really, really like the doublet because (1) it is very inexpensive, and (2) it works on all the bands. Have fun, and try your hardest to get on CW! 73, Jim / W6JHB On Tuesday, Feb 25, 2014, at Tuesday, 4:23 PM, Sean Wall wrote: Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean Sent from my iPad __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, As a software guy myself, I understand that you may be leaning toward buying an antenna instead of building. I like the idea of the LNR because it leaves more money in your pocket to experiment with other antennas. Get a good antenna book. Read all the chapters on wire antennas. Wire antennas are cheap cheap cheap. Magnetic loop antennas aren't that hard to build. You need a good high-voltage variable capacitor, and you can buy vacuum variable capacitors on eBay. Nearly everything else comes from your local big-box home improvement store (Orange or Blue, your choice). 73 -- Lynn On 2/26/2014 6:18 AM, Sean Wall wrote: Hi folks, I want to thank everyone who offered advice, it's invaluable to a new ham like myself! I've settled on the KX3 -- I like the fact that it's versatile enough to be a decent base station and it can go on the road with me. Plus, it seems that it has a lot of features that you generally see on more expensive rigs. The SDR aspect also appeals to me as I'm a nerd and I'd like to experiment with SDR applications on my laptop. I do software development with a masters in electrical engineering, so I'm not worried about the KX3 being overly complex. I'll figure it out eventually, I think. :D The one definite take-away which was clear to me is it's all about the antenna. I'm considering other antennas other than the Buddipole now. The current front runner is the LNR End Fed 10/20/40 wire antenna. I like it because you tune it for 40 m and 10/20 should fall into place. Also, you can remove the supplied radiator and attach a new one to tune in other bands. It's also a heck of a lot cheaper than a Buddipole. (Not to disparage the BP -- I've read a lot of good reviews about it -- but I'd rather go with something simpler and less expensive right now.) I haven't looked into the magnetic loop antennas yet, but I'll get to that. One question though -- the LNR site said no antenna tuner is needed or recommended, which makes sense in this case. I was still considering getting the optional antenna tuner for the KX3, but can you disable it in the settings if you don't want to use it? I received about equal number of responses on either side of the 10w/100w fence. Once again, it seemed to boil down to it won't make a lot of difference if you don't have a good antenna to start with. I'll stick with 10w for now, and I can get the 100w amp later. BTW - I plan on initially using phone as I'm still learning Morse, but I would like get to get into CW at some point. Also, I do plan on joining a local ham club. There are several in my area so that should be no problem. If they're all as friendly and accommodating as you folks, I should have no problem getting help. :) Thanks again everyone! 73 - Sean (call sign not in the ULS database yet - should be this week!!) __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Definitely. I'm not even sure why I bought a microphone for my KX3. I've got a Brown Brothers straight key and a set of paddles, and I'm seriously thinking of selling them. Digital modes are the way to go (then again, I ran RTTY more than 30 years ago -- 28KSR on autostart -- so I'm biased). I've been slowly working my way back into the hobby, and I plan 100% portable operation with a laptop, KX3, and more-or-less random bits of wire. 73 -- Lynn On 2/26/2014 8:10 AM, Barry LaZar wrote: Let me suggest that you add PSK31 to your beginnings. It is a mode that really works well at low powers and it's really easy to set up. __ 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] New ham and the KX3
With the current testing structure (for better or worse) he can make Extra in less than a year. Biggest problem I had with the Extra test was giving the test answers and not the correct answers based on years of operating specialized modes. 73 -- Lynn On 2/26/2014 8:15 AM, Don Wilhelm wrote: The problem with that suggestion is that the Tech licensee can only use PSK31 on 10 meters. __ 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] New ham and the KX3
I was really surprised at how well the KX3 did in the last RTTY contest at 5 watts. The KX3 was making contacts left and right barefoot and without a computer running AFSK-D. What a rig. !! I was on a Hexbeam which probably made more competitive. This underscores the need for efficient antennas. The clean signal coming from the rig likely helped as well. The KX3 also does well without a computer on PSK. The KX3 utility when used with a netbook makes running PSK without a Signalink a breeze. I have also been running JT65 barefoot at 3 watts and gotten as far as South Africa on a wire. Ariel NY4G Sent from my iPhone On Feb 26, 2014, at 2:17 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT k...@coldrockshotbrooms.com wrote: Definitely. I'm not even sure why I bought a microphone for my KX3. I've got a Brown Brothers straight key and a set of paddles, and I'm seriously thinking of selling them. Digital modes are the way to go (then again, I ran RTTY more than 30 years ago -- 28KSR on autostart -- so I'm biased). I've been slowly working my way back into the hobby, and I plan 100% portable operation with a laptop, KX3, and more-or-less random bits of wire. 73 -- Lynn On 2/26/2014 8:10 AM, Barry LaZar wrote: Let me suggest that you add PSK31 to your beginnings. It is a mode that really works well at low powers and it's really easy to set up. __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Heh, using myself as an example: I took the 13 WPM code test at the FCC in SF to gain the General (an imposing building, 555 Battery Street is forever imbedded in memory). I held an Advanced for years but know I'll never make 20 WPM code, it simply isn't one of my talents. Once that requirement was dropped, it was the math that trips me up. I don't know, nor do I care what the formulas are BUT I know where to find them when I need them. I learn more by doing than reading. The better teachers know there are three ways to learn, seeing, hearing, doing; then teach ALL methods at the same time. At one point, I got bored, so I took the tests online until I was consistently above 85% then took the actual exam making only guesses at the math. Some were correct, based on frequent exposure to the tests. If I did well everywhere else, it would be enough to pass, regardless of the math. I blew through the rest of the test, which carried me to an Extra. So if I can do it, pretty much anyone else should make it. One exception is my older son (both area licensed). He has a degree in math and a CSEE, is highly trained and working in digital magic for a military contractor but can't help over-thinking the test (an engineer fault, besides, it's mostly analog). The test is grossly outdated and the generic answers are too dumbed down to the point of being inaccurate (to folks like him). Now where did I put those math books? :o) Oh yah, next to the CW practice machine... hmmm, dusty again. 73, Rick wa6nhc On 2/26/2014 11:19 AM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT wrote: With the current testing structure (for better or worse) he can make Extra in less than a year. Biggest problem I had with the Extra test was giving the test answers and not the correct answers based on years of operating specialized modes. 73 -- Lynn __ 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] New ham and the KX3
The Par end fed is a good antenna choice and will enable operation on 10/20/40 without a tuner. You may also consider a push-up fiberglass pole - 30 footer runs around $100 and works great with a couple of bungee cords and some electrical tape. I usually tape the end fed match box a couple of sections down and run the antenna as a sloper. You also need about 50ft coax feeder of course. Paul AD5BV Sent from my iPhone On Feb 26, 2014, at 8:18, Sean Wall seancw...@gmail.com wrote: Hi folks, I want to thank everyone who offered advice, it's invaluable to a new ham like myself! I've settled on the KX3 -- I like the fact that it's versatile enough to be a decent base station and it can go on the road with me. Plus, it seems that it has a lot of features that you generally see on more expensive rigs. The SDR aspect also appeals to me as I'm a nerd and I'd like to experiment with SDR applications on my laptop. I do software development with a masters in electrical engineering, so I'm not worried about the KX3 being overly complex. I'll figure it out eventually, I think. :D The one definite take-away which was clear to me is it's all about the antenna. I'm considering other antennas other than the Buddipole now. The current front runner is the LNR End Fed 10/20/40 wire antenna. I like it because you tune it for 40 m and 10/20 should fall into place. Also, you can remove the supplied radiator and attach a new one to tune in other bands. It's also a heck of a lot cheaper than a Buddipole. (Not to disparage the BP -- I've read a lot of good reviews about it -- but I'd rather go with something simpler and less expensive right now.) I haven't looked into the magnetic loop antennas yet, but I'll get to that. One question though -- the LNR site said no antenna tuner is needed or recommended, which makes sense in this case. I was still considering getting the optional antenna tuner for the KX3, but can you disable it in the settings if you don't want to use it? I received about equal number of responses on either side of the 10w/100w fence. Once again, it seemed to boil down to it won't make a lot of difference if you don't have a good antenna to start with. I'll stick with 10w for now, and I can get the 100w amp later. BTW - I plan on initially using phone as I'm still learning Morse, but I would like get to get into CW at some point. Also, I do plan on joining a local ham club. There are several in my area so that should be no problem. If they're all as friendly and accommodating as you folks, I should have no problem getting help. :) Thanks again everyone! 73 - Sean (call sign not in the ULS database yet - should be this week!!) __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, I stopped by the PAR Electronics booth at Dayton last year. There was a lot of interest in a new trail-friendly antenna for 10/20/40m. I asked one of the guys at the booth what was trail-friendly about it? At which time he put one in the palm of my hand. It winds up on a spool, and can easily be carried in a pocket. This would be nice to take to the field, or even use around your home. BTW, congratulations on joining our world-wide fraternity! 72/73 de Jim - AD6CW __ 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] New ham and the KX3
You can miss 13 questions on the Extra test, of which maybe 4 or 5 are complex math. When I took my Extra, there were 4, and I missed 7 questions. You can safely blow off the math as long as you do well on the other subsections. -- Lynn On 2/26/2014 12:02 PM, Rick WA6NHC wrote: At one point, I got bored, so I took the tests online until I was consistently above 85% then took the actual exam making only guesses at the math. Some were correct, based on frequent exposure to the tests. If I did well everywhere else, it would be enough to pass, regardless of the math. I blew through the rest of the test, which carried me to an Extra. So if I can do it, pretty much anyone else should make it. __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean Sent from my iPad __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, I think with a limited antenna, (Buddipole) extra power will not make a huge difference. “You can’t work ‘em if you can’t hear ‘em.” is a truism. I suggest for your home station, you experiment with “low profile” antennas. Like a fine wire tossed up in a tree or draped out an upstairs window or… Buddipole is good for portable ops. For a more permanent home installation try for better. The better the antenna the better you’ll hear. I’ve worked China, most of Europe and South America, Several Oceania stations with my KX3 and 5 watts… With a good yagi at 55’… And Europeans and South Americans on 40 and 80 on a vertical. Yeah, I know… You can’t do that. You’ll do okay with the Buddipole, but you can do better with a bit of trial and error. Good luck and good DX 73 Gil, W1RG From: Sean Wall Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2014 7:23 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean Sent from my iPad __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, Welcome to one of the most interesting hobbies that there is. I read that you find yourself in the same predicament that many urban and near urban hams find themselves in. However, take heart. There are ways to deal with HOA rules. First, let me say that a Buddipole is not a bad antenna. A lot of hams use them quite satisfactorily. And, 10 Watts will allow you to seriously reach out and touch people, some a very long way away. How well you do will depend upon what band you go with, solar conditions, and mode. Next, I'm going to be a little forward and recommend a possible option. If your house is two stories or more above ground and you can get into the area under the roof, the attic area, you might want to think about using a center fed dipole for 40 meters; it will be around 66' total. It doesn't even need to be in a straight line. It can be Z shaped with a little slope on each end. It can be fed through a 4:1 current balun. The coax can be fed through the ceiling in a closet or some or other inconspicuous place where you can put a remote antenna tuner. This will work 40-10 meters with surprising performance. I helped a friend do this in his house as he is facing the same HOA problem. He has worked a lot of DX using low power and PSK31. There are other antennas that work, but nothing comes to mind that is as simple as this. Best of Luck, Barry K3NDM - Original Message - From: Sean Wall seancw...@gmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2014 7:23:13 PM Subject: [Elecraft] New ham and the KX3 Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean Sent from my iPad __ 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] New ham and the KX3
I have used the BuddiPole, about 5 feet off the ground in an elevated vertical configuration, and a K3 on 20 meters and it worked very well. This was with three 17-foot radials. I have never used the BuddiPole in a dipole configuration but I understand it also works very well. As someone else noted, the difference between the K3's 100 watts and the KX3's 10 watts is, very often, not significant. Good luck on your upgrades! Jack, W6NF/VE4SNA On 2/25/2014 4:23 PM, Sean Wall wrote: Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean Sent from my iPad __ 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 . --- This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active. http://www.avast.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] New ham and the KX3
I just recently got the 100W amp for my K3, so most of my operation has been at 12 watts and below. In looking through my log, the vast majority of my 10M contacts are QRP, or 5 watts. I use a home-brew vertical with a window screen ground plain on the roof of my single story house for an antenna. When I played in the ARRL 10M contest QRP, I logged 22 states along with Mexico, NIcaragua, and Columbia in what wasn't a really serious contest effort. So yes, you can have a lot of fun with 10 watts on 10 meters. Cheers - Bill, AE6JV On 2/25/14 at 4:23 PM, seancw...@gmail.com (Sean Wall) wrote: I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? -- Bill Frantz| There are now so many exceptions to the 408-356-8506 | Fourth Amendment that it operates only by www.pwpconsult.com | accident. - William Hugh Murray __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Welcome to probably the very best hobby in the world! ... or at least it has been for me, I'm working on my 61st year with a license. I think you picked a good one Sean! To make contacts, antennas are everything. If you're running 5 watts and go to 50W, that's at best 2 S-units, and probably less for your QSO buddy. Go to 500W, that may be another 1.5 S-units. Go to 1KW, and it's about a half S-unit. Antenna choices can make way more than that difference. I had a Buddipole for quite awhile, I used it in the field. I ultimately sold it for an Alexloop. The BP was heavy [my primary reason for selling it], but worked, sort of. The Alexloop is much lighter and works OK. It was a good trade, but I don't recommend it for your situation. That said, I'll suggest you might want to try some very cheap wires that you can hide. Longer wires almost always outperform any shortened and low antenna. You might want to join the NA SOTA group on Yahoo, these are folks who climb mountains with radios, and antennas are a big discussion item. They're all QRP [some VERY QRP with Rockmites], and there's a lot of info there, feel free to introduce yourself and ask questions. I think you'll find us really accepting of a new ham. Feel free to ask here too, and welcome to our hobby! 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2014 Cal QSO Party 4-5 Oct 2014 - www.cqp.org On 2/25/2014 4:23 PM, Sean Wall wrote: Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Welcome Sean, There are two rules to antennas: 1) Put up the biggest one you can 2) If it stays up, it was too small Seriously, though. A really good chunk of fine wire (like Wireman #534 -- 26 gauge copper-over-steel with a thin insulation jacket to make it harder to see) will give you something that will work, and if you buy a bunch, you can experiment. Nobody will see it. The antenna tuner option is a really good idea if you decide to go that way. 73 -- Lynn On 2/25/2014 4:23 PM, Sean Wall wrote: Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean __ 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] New ham and the KX3
Sean, Great location especially if you can be operating close the water (sea) when resonant vertical antennas (I use vertical dipoles on a telescoping 10m fishing pole) should allow you to work the world qrp. I also have a buddipole and it works fine in vertical configuration especially close to the water on 10-20m and you can tune it so that you do not need a tuner at all. The combination is also very portable. You do NOT need a large amplifier. Yes it can help but you are going to learn a lot more and have fun experimenting with antennas and using an amplifier tends to bring other problems with it... interference, if your development is twitchy about amateur radio you will bring lots of attention your way if you start to create any interference. At qrp power levels CW (morse code) will allow contacts over much further distances than SSB (phone) so spend time and learn/improve your CW skills apart from anything else most of the DX peditions will be using CW first before any other modes. 72 Dom M1KTA I'll be in C5 (Gambia) 27th Feb to 10th March. Holiday with wife so I might not be on the air the whole time but if last time was anything to go by RBN/DX cluster will pick me up after about 5 seconds and should be an easy qso from Florida. On 26/02/2014 00:23, Sean Wall wrote: Hi folks, I recently got my Technician license and I'm working on my General and Extra. I'm looking to get my first rig and I'm interested in the KX3. I was considering pairing it with a Buddipole antenna, as my development doesn't allow permanent antennas. While I use the KX3 at home, will I get decent range with the 10 watt output? In other words, would I need the 100 watt amp to make the kx3 a decent base station? I am also planning on bringing the KX3 with me when my wife and I drive up north from Florida (where we live). Since I'm new to amateur radio, I don't yet have a feel for how much power 10 watts is w.r.t. RF frequencies. I plan on operating mostly 6 and 10 m initially until I upgrade my license. Thanks for any help you can provide! -Sean __ 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
