Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power out

2008-12-21 Thread David Woolley (E.L)

Jan Erik Holm wrote:


Please Elecraft, make a FW change and limit the radio
to 100W, thanks!


Human nature being what it is, the likely result of this would be a 
large number of people refusing to upgrade their firmware any further 
and a significant grapevine message about how new purchasers can get 
increased power by downgrading the firmware.


There is quite a significant lobby on this list for the radio to impose 
no restrictions in firmware.


--
David Woolley
The Elecraft list is a forum for the discussion of topics related to 
Elecraft products and more general topics related ham radio

List Guidelines http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_list_guidelines.htm
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Re: [Elecraft] k3 matching filters

2008-12-21 Thread GW0ETF

I didn't bother about paying/asking for matched default filters for my KRX3.
The one in the main board has a -0.93kHz offset and the one in the KRX3 is
-0.83kHz.

Shifting them both to -0.88kHz seems to make no difference to performance -
would you expect a 50Hz shift in a nominal -6dB b/w of ~2.7kHz to be that
noticable anyway?

However the wondering 'beat' between right and left channels disappears
completely when you doctor the offsets - just need a nice big Beverage
now.

73,

Stewart Rolfe, GW0ETF 


Lyle Johnson wrote:
 
 The main receiver offset is -.97 but the new 2.k filter is marked -.93.
 My question is are these a match or did I get the wrong part?
 
 I think you may have received the wrong filter.  At this point, I'd 
 install the new filter in the KRX3, but set the Main and KRX3 offsets to 
 -0.95 (split the difference).  20 Hz is not going to make a practical 
 difference in any operational sense that come sot mind.
 
 

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http://n2.nabble.com/k3-matching-filters-tp1683028p1686175.html
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[Elecraft] UK Elecraft net report for Sunday 21st December

2008-12-21 Thread Dave G4AON
Conditions were quite good this week with only a little QRM.

Topics were:

French amateurs running AM nets on 3550 KHz, usually active most
mornings, plus the usual fishing boats...
S-Meter calibration on both the K2 and K3. General view was that the K3
can be very accurately calibrated.
Softrock and Rocky, pay attention to the cables between the Softrock and
the sound card input, especially watching the balance.
CW sending while on SSB, press key 1 in the CW weight menu option.
The recent speaker resistor grounding modification to protect the AF
amplifier IC.
Aluminium flight cases for the K3, the suggested Maplin case
(www.maplin.co.uk order code N70AP) that is often on sale for £14.99,
may be too small to accommodate the K3.
The Expert 1K-FA linear amplifier

Stations were:
G4ARI, Tim
M1PAF, Paul
G0VGS, Ian
GM0ELP, Doug
GM3SEK, Ian
M0MRW, Mike
G4CWB, Dave
G4NWJ, Jim

Merry Christmas!
Dave, G4AON
K3/100 #80, Acom 1000 linear, dipole.


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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power out

2008-12-21 Thread Bill W4ZV



Jan Erik Holm wrote:
 
 After measuring the TX IMD on SSB I stopped putting the
 radio above 100W.
 

Jim try setting your power supply so you have 13.8-14.0V key down at maximum
power and see if that helps the IMD some.

73,  Bill

-- 
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Re: [Elecraft] even further OT: new SS amps

2008-12-21 Thread DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
On Sun, Dec 21, 2008 at 12:52 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV
li...@microham-usa.com wrote:

[snip]
so it really boils down
 to is six meters and the tuner worth the extra $1000.

[end snip]

I'm not sure where you got the extra $1000 from.  Currently, HRO is
selling the Quadra for $2999.  Great price for the Quadra, but still
pricey for a less than full power HF amp.

de Doug KR2Q
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[Elecraft] K3: pwr out - does this sound right?

2008-12-21 Thread DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
After reading the recent comments on POWER OUT, I decided to check mine.

Using the voltmeter on the K3

Zero power out:  13.6v
5 watts out:  13.3v
100 watts out:  13.1v

The drop from 13.6 to 13.1 for 100w doesn't seem so bad.  But why the
drop when running only 5 watts out...seems out of line compared to the
100w level drop.

Does the 5 watt output V drop seem right to you?  Comments?

PS is 25-30 year old Astron RS35A

Thanks,
Doug KR2Q
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Re: [Elecraft] UK Elecraft net report for Sunday 21st December

2008-12-21 Thread Trevor Smithers
Softrock and Rocky, pay attention to the cables between the Softrock and
the sound card input, especially watching the balance.

I didn't listen to the UK Elecraft net this morning so I'm not aware of the 
context, however when I 
started building Softrock's I encountered the familiar centre frequency 
spike/noise problem. This 
was cured completely by changing the cable between the SR and soundcard to a 
Maplin L44AU  
http://www.maplin.co.uk/  

The photo on the Maplin page is not clear enough to see, but there are actually 
two separately 
screened cables, one for each channel, rather than the more common (cheap) 
version which 
has both signal cables wound together inside a single screen.

Anyway, its works for me.

73 to all
Trevor  G0KTN



   
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[Elecraft] Microphone question - K3

2008-12-21 Thread NZ0T

I want to replace the element in a Kenwood MC-50 with an electret.  I know
that the K3 provides bias voltage to pin 1 on the front mic connector which
is also the audio line - as long as bias is selected in the mic sel menu. 
Does this pin already have the coupling capacitor in line or do I need to
add that in the microphone?  I don't see a capacitor or resistor inside my
MH2 hand mic so I'm assuming all I have to do is connect the audio and bias
leads to pin 1 and the ground to pin 7?

Thanks all for the help!

73 Bill NZ0T
-- 
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Re: [Elecraft] Microphone question - K3

2008-12-21 Thread Lyle Johnson

I want to replace the element in a Kenwood MC-50 with an electret.  I know
that the K3 provides bias voltage to pin 1 on the front mic connector which
is also the audio line - as long as bias is selected in the mic sel menu. 
Does this pin already have the coupling capacitor in line 


Yes.

73,

Lyle KK7P
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Re: [Elecraft] K3: pwr out - does this sound right?

2008-12-21 Thread Dave G4AON
Doug, I guess you are seeing the Voltage drop on the power lead and it's
connectors. With my not so old Racal linear power supply, I obtained
the following results from the metering on the K3:

Zero out, 13.8V
5 Watts out, 13.5V
100 Watts out, 13.3V

This was checked into a 50 Ohm load on both 80m and 20m

73 Dave, G4AON
K3/100 #80
-
After reading the recent comments on POWER OUT, I decided to check mine.

Using the voltmeter on the K3

Zero power out: 13.6v
5 watts out: 13.3v
100 watts out: 13.1v

The drop from 13.6 to 13.1 for 100w doesn't seem so bad. But why the
drop when running only 5 watts out...seems out of line compared to the
100w level drop.

Does the 5 watt output V drop seem right to you? Comments?

PS is 25-30 year old Astron RS35A

Thanks,
Doug KR2Q
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Re: [Elecraft] k3 matching filters

2008-12-21 Thread Don Wilhelm

Stewart,

You are correct that the importance of the offset is inversely 
proportional to the filter width.  A 50 Hz shift not make much 
difference with the 2.7 or 2.8 kHz width, but it certainly will make a 
big difference at a 200 Hz width.


73,
Don W3FPR

GW0ETF wrote:

I didn't bother about paying/asking for matched default filters for my KRX3.
The one in the main board has a -0.93kHz offset and the one in the KRX3 is
-0.83kHz.

Shifting them both to -0.88kHz seems to make no difference to performance -
would you expect a 50Hz shift in a nominal -6dB b/w of ~2.7kHz to be that
noticable anyway?

However the wondering 'beat' between right and left channels disappears
completely when you doctor the offsets - just need a nice big Beverage
now.

73,

Stewart Rolfe, GW0ETF 
  


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Re: [Elecraft] K3: pwr out - does this sound right?

2008-12-21 Thread Don Wilhelm

Doug,

You are testing the regulation capability of your power supply.
I would say that is fairly normal - most of the drop will occur in the 
initial part of the I-V output curve for the PS, then will flatten out 
as the current becomes greater.
You are indicating a regulation of 3.7% over that current draw range 
which is quite good.


73,
Don W3FPR

DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL wrote:

After reading the recent comments on POWER OUT, I decided to check mine.

Using the voltmeter on the K3

Zero power out:  13.6v
5 watts out:  13.3v
100 watts out:  13.1v

The drop from 13.6 to 13.1 for 100w doesn't seem so bad.  But why the
drop when running only 5 watts out...seems out of line compared to the
100w level drop.

Does the 5 watt output V drop seem right to you?  Comments?

PS is 25-30 year old Astron RS35A

Thanks,
Doug KR2Q
  


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[Elecraft] K3 Measured Power Output versus Commanded Power Output

2008-12-21 Thread Jack Smith

I've recently run a series of measurements comparing the commanded power
output with measured power output for my K3, using an HP437B/8482A power
meter.

The details are at
http://www.cliftonlaboratories.com/k3_power_setting_accuracy.htm

After updating my K3's firmware to the most recent beta releases and
running the calibration procedure, I found a considerable improvement
over the as received K3. There's still some frequency and power level
dependency in the K3's wattmeter, but it isn't too bad, with almost all
frequencies and power levels being within +/- 10%.

Jack K8ZOA
www.cliftonlaboratories.com


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RE: [Elecraft] even further OT: new SS amps

2008-12-21 Thread Joe Subich, W4TV

 I'm not sure where you got the extra $1000 from.  
 Currently, HRO is selling the Quadra for $2999.

OK ... I had not priced the Quadra in some time.  Last I looked 
it was $3895 from most sources.  In any case, $2999 is a coupon 
price - HRO's regular price is $3499.  If you want to compare 
selling price the ALS-1300 will probably end up between $2249 
and $2499 if the retailers discount at the same 15 to 20% rate 
as they do on the other Ameritron amplifiers.  

The ALS-1300 will not be in the same class as the Elecraft amps 
(whenever they are available) but it is an interesting option 
for someone who does not need the last fraction of a dB in power, 
performance, or features.  

73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV 
 



 -Original Message-
 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
 [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
 Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 7:21 AM
 To: micro...@microham-usa.com
 Cc: Elecraft Reflector
 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] even further OT: new SS amps
 
 
 On Sun, Dec 21, 2008 at 12:52 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV 
 li...@microham-usa.com wrote:
 
 [snip]
 so it really boils down
  to is six meters and the tuner worth the extra $1000.
 
 [end snip]
 
 I'm not sure where you got the extra $1000 from.  
 Currently, HRO is selling the Quadra for $2999.  Great price 
 for the Quadra, but still pricey for a less than full power HF amp.
 
 de Doug KR2Q
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Re: [Elecraft] K3: pwr out - does this sound right?

2008-12-21 Thread Brian Alsop
And it's connectors is quite true.  I did some back of the envelope 
calcs here and 60-75% of the voltage drop appears to be due to the 
connectors + power supply sag.


This conclusion was drawn from a least squares linear fit of the V vs I 
plot to obtain an effective R value.   Then the cable resistance was 
determined from wire cables.  I collected a number of them from 
people with different supplies, crimped and soldered PP's.  These 
effective resistance values seem to vary 50%-- perhaps a reflection of 
power supply sag.  We're talking total effective resistances in the 0.02 
to 0.04 ohm range.


Draw you own conclusion whether or not it would be desirable to have a 
lower resistance connector. 

The calc's do indicate for a 5' cable,  the difference between  using 10 
ga and 12 ga supply cable is negligible.


73 de Brian/K3KO

Dave G4AON wrote:


Doug, I guess you are seeing the Voltage drop on the power lead and it's
connectors. With my not so old Racal linear power supply, I obtained
the following results from the metering on the K3:

Zero out, 13.8V
5 Watts out, 13.5V
100 Watts out, 13.3V

This was checked into a 50 Ohm load on both 80m and 20m

73 Dave, G4AON
K3/100 #80
 



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RE: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps

2008-12-21 Thread Bruce McLaughlin
It's funny how experiences can differ.  A couple years ago I decided to
refurbish my old Heathkit SB-200.  Included in the project was a set of new
tubes to replace the original tubes from 1972.  I purchased a pair of
Svetlana 572Bs from RF parts.  One of them burned out its filament after it
was turned on for about the fourth or fifth time.  I have never had a tube
do that before.  RF parts exchanged them for a set of Taylor tubes which
have worked fine for the past couple of years.  I guess all this means is
that when you are buying imported tubes the quality control may leave
something to be desired.  Eimac tubes may cost much more, but except for
some well documented exceptions, they generally appear to be much more
consistent and robust.  Frankly, I would rather pay more for the amplifier
up front with good Eimac tubes instead of being forced into a game of
Russian roulette as to whether the tubes will still be available when
replacements are needed, sometimes a lot sooner than should be the case.

Bruce-W8FU

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of WILLIS COOKE
Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 8:15 PM
To: Ron D'Eau Claire; Elecraft Reflector
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps

Ron, there are other considerations.  The tubes available today are made in
China.  I had very bad luck with two sets of Taylor brand 572Bs that were
made in China.  One set never worked at all and the other set lasted about a
month.  I am still using the 572Bs that I bought in 1976 used.  So, if you
get one of the 811A or 572B amps with Chinese tubes how long will they last?
Am I extremely unlucky or did I ruin them intentionally as R. F. Parts
accused?  I really don't know, but it certainly will weigh heavily on my
decision of what amp to buy.  In fact, I just bought a used ALS-600.  I will
see how well that works for me.

Tuning is not really a factor for me.  If you buy a No Tune solid state
amp then need an antenna tuner you have not changed things a lot.  But, will
you need new tubes in a month or so?  How long will you be able to buy them?

Willis 'Cookie' Cooke 
K5EWJ


--- On Sat, 12/20/08, Ron D'Eau Claire r...@cobi.biz wrote:

 From: Ron D'Eau Claire r...@cobi.biz
 Subject: RE: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps
 To: 'Elecraft Reflector' elecraft@mailman.qth.net
 Date: Saturday, December 20, 2008, 3:44 PM
 What catches my eye is that comparing the amps on page 1 and
 page 9, you
 have to pay $2,000 more for an additional 1.7 dB of gain
 with the amp on
 page 9.
 
 Sure. you have to know how to adjust an amp and actually
 tune the one on
 page 1 whereas the one on page 9 is no tuning
 (assuming the antenna is
 tuned or you do the tuning with an external tuner). 
 
 I guess that's significant to the hard-core contester,
 but for that
 convenience along with the 1.7 dB gain you must pay $2,000
 for those who
 demand the ability to QSY across the band or between bands
 instantly, or who
 want to operate their station remotely through a computer. 
 
 Ron AC7AC
 
 
 -Original Message-
 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
 [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of
 DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
 Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 2:30 PM
 To: Elecraft Reflector
 Subject: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps
 
 I just ran into this by accident.
 
 http://www.ameritron.com/catalog/Ameritron_2009.pdf
 
 See page 9.
 
 No stated expected delivery
 Not enough specs for my liking, but still,
 rather interesting.
 Is this contest grade?  Who knows?
 
 de Doug KR2Q
 
 
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Re: [Elecraft] even further OT: new SS amps

2008-12-21 Thread DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
Thanks Joe...

Actually, in a way, Elecraft KPA800 and 1500 and the Ameritron ALS1300
are in the same class...NOT YET AVAILABLE.  :-)

de Doug KR2Q

On Sun, Dec 21, 2008 at 10:15 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV
li...@microham-usa.com wrote:

 I'm not sure where you got the extra $1000 from.
 Currently, HRO is selling the Quadra for $2999.

 OK ... I had not priced the Quadra in some time.  Last I looked
 it was $3895 from most sources.  In any case, $2999 is a coupon
 price - HRO's regular price is $3499.  If you want to compare
 selling price the ALS-1300 will probably end up between $2249
 and $2499 if the retailers discount at the same 15 to 20% rate
 as they do on the other Ameritron amplifiers.

 The ALS-1300 will not be in the same class as the Elecraft amps
 (whenever they are available) but it is an interesting option
 for someone who does not need the last fraction of a dB in power,
 performance, or features.

 73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

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Fw: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps...more

2008-12-21 Thread Sandy
The amplifier I was thinking of was the Metron!  They seemed to be very well 
made and almost indestructable from what I heard from the Texas bunch on 40 
SSB way back.


- Original Message - 
From: Sandy ebj...@charter.net

To: wrco...@flash.net; Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 8:36 PM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps



No, but a popular mobile amp that ran 600 watts were selling for
considerably less.  I used a Henry 2K-2 for years until it good too damned
heavy for this old man to horse around!  I now have an Ameritron AL-811H
Much lighter and 500 watts is very adequate.  Will run more, but why do it
as the 811A's I have will last a long time at 500 watts CW.

Solid state would be niceBUT.  Hard to by on a retirement fixed 
income.


73,
Sandy W5TVW

Been listening on 3546.5 nights around 0200-0300Z on the little rig 
inside.


- Original Message - 
From: WILLIS COOKE wrco...@flash.net

To: Sandy ebj...@charter.net; Elecraft Reflector
elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 7:32 PM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps



Sandy, did you ever take a look at what a kilowatt amp cost in 1955?  It
would be more than than $3,000 when $3,000 was a year's pay for most.

Willis 'Cookie' Cooke
K5EWJ


--- On Sat, 12/20/08, Sandy ebj...@charter.net wrote:


From: Sandy ebj...@charter.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps
To: DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL doug...@gmail.com, Elecraft Reflector
elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Date: Saturday, December 20, 2008, 5:14 PM
Who can afford almost $3K?  Ham radio getting way outta my
league!

73,

Sandy W5TVW

- Original Message - 
From: DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL doug...@gmail.com

To: Elecraft Reflector
elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 4:30 PM
Subject: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps


I just ran into this by accident.

 http://www.ameritron.com/catalog/Ameritron_2009.pdf

 See page 9.

 No stated expected delivery
 Not enough specs for my liking, but still,
rather interesting.
 Is this contest grade?  Who knows?

 de Doug KR2Q

 I have no vested interest in this company.
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No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com
Version: 8.0.176 / Virus Database: 270.9.19/1857 - Release
Date: 12/19/2008
10:09 AM

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No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com
Version: 8.0.176 / Virus Database: 270.9.19/1859 - Release Date: 
12/20/2008

2:34 PM

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No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com
Version: 8.0.176 / Virus Database: 270.9.19/1859 - Release Date: 12/20/2008 
2:34 PM


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[Elecraft] No Audio for Paddle on K3/10

2008-12-21 Thread Frank MacDonell
Looking for help. Not sure what I did...but I have
no audio for the paddle and the paddle is working as a straight key
but.I can see letters on the display. Any ideas?
Thanks for your help.

-- 
Frank KD8FIP
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[Elecraft] K3: Rx dead, need help. More details

2008-12-21 Thread DM4iM
The K3 shows no reaction on changing the volume or rf-gain, but it shows
reaction on changing the bandwidth etc. I can hear a test signal from a
transmitter, with no antenna connected to the K3. The signal i hear does
not change when increasing power, no s-meter deflection. So i assume the
rx itself is ok, but the received signal is not amplified by the stages
after the rx.
Also, the K3 fails to transmit.

Any comments?

-- 

73, DM4iM
K2 #2706
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[Elecraft] K3 Panel Screws - I'm Not Alone

2008-12-21 Thread Ron - PE8E
Hi John, Phil and others,

. Maybe they'll be offered by Elecraft .

Elecraft does offer replacement screws, allthough not (yet) as a
complete set. Look on the Spare parts and Mod Kits order page under
Miscellaneous. You find FLTSCRKT with 10 screws for a dollar. It says
for K1 but they are the same as the K3. I ordered a set some time ago to
replace some on my K3. The pan-heads are there too.

73 de PE8E, Ron
K3/100 #00201
K3/10  #01201

 --

 Date: Sat, 20 Dec 2008 21:17:19 -0800
 From: John Sims n...@sbcglobal.net
 Subject: [Elecraft] K3 Panel Screws - I'm Not Alone

 Yet again, from tonight's reflector digest:

 So - Now after two mod processes plus installation of the KRX3, my 
cabinet
 screws are starting to show a little wear.  Maybe Elecraft should offer
a small kit that just includes replacement cabinet screws (top-and
side-cover
 especially) for those of us who keep taking our K3s apart.
 Phil - AD5X
 Here, here!  Those screws heads are too malleable, a few of yours are
showing wear and tear.  I wish I'd ordered a full set of them -- they're
cheap.  Maybe they'll be offered by Elecraft.

 They did give me better side panel heat sink screws (two) for the K2.
Aptos finally realized the initial pair weren't good for repeated
assembly and disassembly.





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RE: [Elecraft] K3: pwr out - does this sound right?

2008-12-21 Thread Joe Subich, W4TV


 You are testing the regulation capability of your power
 supply. 

Sorry, Don.  Using the internal voltmeter in the K3 does not 
test the regulation of the power supply.  The pick-off point 
for the voltmeter is after Q2 (FDS6375) the FET power switch 
and D6 (SB530) reverse voltage protection diode.  The drop 
Doug is measuring is primarily the drop through Q2.  

If you don't believe me, check the voltage readings at 2W, 
5W and 10W then compare them to 20W, 50W and 100W.  Then 
compare those same voltages to a calibrated DVM directly 
across the power supply. 

Note, the voltage read by the K3 voltmeter will be .3V less 
(at no load) than the voltage at the PowerPole due to D6 and 
the drop will increase with current through Q2.  Power for 
the KPA3 100 Watt amplifier is picked off before D6/Q2. 

In my case (an Astron RS-35A that drops 0.01V from no load 
to  20A measured directly at the output), I see 13.7V on 
the K3 with no load (power supply set to 14.0V), 13.3V at 
10.0W and 13.1V at 100W.  The 0.2V difference between 10W 
(3.7A) to 100W (18.0A) represents 0.014 Ohms [0.2V / 
(18.0-3.7A)] of power cable and connector resistance.  

My concern is the relatively large change in voltage with  
current through the FDS6375.  The current through Q2 should 
be less than 4 A (no current for KPA3).  The Fairchild data 
sheet (www.fairchildsemi.com/ds/FD/FDS6375.pdf) shows 
Rds(on) should be less than 0.03 Ohms for -Vgs  2V.  

I am concerned that the .4V swing on the unregulated +12A 
line to the LPA (driver) might be responsible for some of 
the IMD seen in the K3 output at higher power levels. 

73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV 
 





 -Original Message-
 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
 [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm
 Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 9:50 AM
 To: DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
 Cc: Elecraft Reflector
 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: pwr out - does this sound right?
 
 
 Doug,
 
 You are testing the regulation capability of your power
 supply. I would say that is fairly normal - most of the drop 
 will occur in the 
 initial part of the I-V output curve for the PS, then will 
 flatten out 
 as the current becomes greater.
 You are indicating a regulation of 3.7% over that current draw range 
 which is quite good.
 
 73,
 Don W3FPR
 
 DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL wrote:
  After reading the recent comments on POWER OUT, I decided to check
  mine.
 
  Using the voltmeter on the K3
 
  Zero power out:  13.6v
  5 watts out:  13.3v
  100 watts out:  13.1v
 
  The drop from 13.6 to 13.1 for 100w doesn't seem so bad.
 But why the
  drop when running only 5 watts out...seems out of line
 compared to the
  100w level drop.
 
  Does the 5 watt output V drop seem right to you?  Comments?
 
  PS is 25-30 year old Astron RS35A
 
  Thanks,
  Doug KR2Q



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power out

2008-12-21 Thread Jan Erik Holm

OK that could be done, I will experiment further when
I do get some time. I know I have checked the PS voltage
but dont remember what it was, have to go down into the
basement and check. Now checked, it´s 13.88 at 100W and
13.84V at 120W.
IMD comes up 8dB at 120W compared with 100W. Stays pritty
much flat betwen 10-100W. At 100W K3 is about 10 dB worse
then a FT-1000D at full 200W. And for kicks a Collins
KWM-2 is 10 dB better then the FT-1000D. What I measure
is the fully modulated envelope and scan 10 kHz up/dwn
from center frequency. That is, what interests me is
how the radios looks 5 kHz up/down from center frequency,
i e adjacent channel IMD if I call it that.
If I would have been the designer I would never have
allowed above 100W PEP SSB, CW of course is OK.

Merry Christmas / Jim

Bill W4ZV wrote:



Jan Erik Holm wrote:

After measuring the TX IMD on SSB I stopped putting the
radio above 100W.



Jim try setting your power supply so you have 13.8-14.0V key down at maximum
power and see if that helps the IMD some.

73,  Bill



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RE: [Elecraft] K3 Power out

2008-12-21 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire
Yes, crowbar circuits disable the power supply, but some crowbar circuits
are self-resetting. They shut down the power supply only as long as the
over-current condition remains and automatically return power when it's
gone. 

Some of the K3 owners here have run into that. Their K3 shut down
unexpectedly, so they hit the POWER switch and it came back on. They
transmit again and the K3 shuts down again (because the power supply did). 

Sometimes it's not apparent what is happening because they don't notice that
the power supply is actually shutting down. 

I like the more conventional crowbar in the Astron because it requires
cycling the Astron's power switch to reset it. That makes it very clear why
things shut down.

My Astron 20 is stock; I have not modified it in any way. It will deliver
a full 20 amps, perhaps an couple of amps more, before the crowbar trips.
That's enough to run the K3 at 100 watts on all bands if the SWR is low. 

A well designed supply like the Astron can deliver full rated power - in
this case 20 amps ICS - 24/7 without any problems as long as the demand is
ICS -- Intermittent Commercial Service -- meaning there are periods when
the full current is not being drawn such as during receive. In the K3
running CW or SSB, that demand is intermittent even during transmit since
the full current is drawn only on momentary voice peaks or while the CW key
is actually closed. 

Ron AC7AC 



-Original Message-
From: Jim W7RY [mailto:w...@arrl.net] 
Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 9:56 PM
To: Ron D'Eau Claire; elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power out

Ron
A crowbar circuit is used to disable the power supply in the event of over

voltage.  The current limit is what would limit the current output of a 
power supply.


A typical crowbar circuit uses a SCR triggered by a voltage sensor. The SCR 
conducts and shorts the output of the supply. Which in turn puts it into 
current limit mode and decreases the output voltage to near zero.

And yes, a 20 amp supply is marginal for a 100 watt HF rig because of the 
examples you have given. The 20 amp Astron can be fudged a little bit by 
increasing the current limit to around 22 amps. The modification involves 
adding a resistor to the current limit circuit of the 723 regulator.


73 and Merry Christmas to all!

Jim W7RY
 

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[Elecraft] Err Pl2

2008-12-21 Thread Randy Downs
Just installed the KRX3 and I am getting PL2 error on the sub on 10 and 12 
meters. I did the adc cal on pin 2 on acc jack. It measured 4.91 and I set the 
config. parameter accordingly. I'll email Aptos and see what they say.  It 
works fine on other bands. Checked connections etc. to no avail. Any ideas? 
Randy
K8RDD___
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Panel Screws - I'm Not Alone

2008-12-21 Thread AD6XY

I support the provision of more of the hardware off the shelf.

It is needed as Elecraft use such rare and difficult to obtain threads.
UNC/UNF is reasonable for a USA market, where they can probably be obtained
at any hardware shop. They are very difficult to get in small quantities if
you live outside the USA. 

Mike
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View this message in context: 
http://n2.nabble.com/K3-Panel-Screws---I%27m-Not-Alone-tp1687099p1687368.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.

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[Elecraft] KRX3 , Mod Comments K3 Screws

2008-12-21 Thread John Sims

Fellow Elecrafters--

Ha!  I finally did it -- I sent a message (replacement screws) to the 
entire list rather than to the owner of the K3 I'm working on.  So, now 
the world knows my comments on screws.


Many thanks to Ron, PE8E, for letting me know about FLTSCRKT -- I'll 
pick that up in my next order.  There are just two or three that I'd 
like to replace right now.


After submitting a slightly critical comment about the screws, I'd like 
to compensate by mentioning my success with several K3 mods and the 
KRX3.  A local friend has a K3 but lacks the eyesight for close work, so 
I'm his Elecraft tech.  It keeps my skills up, plus it puts a K3 on the 
desk beside my K2 for a few days.  Thus far I've installed the following 
K3 mods:


1. Amp pull-up resistors:  easily installed and K3-to-amplifier 
communications are fine.


2. LINE OUT and speaker amplifier mods:  much easier than expected.  The 
original RFC 47 was easily removed intact, the holes were cleared, and 
the new RFC 47 fits nicely on the bottom of the board with its leads 
placed in the old RFC 47 holes. For the LINE OUT mod, removing the KIO3 
board is much easier the second time around, it's just a matter of 
following instructions.


3. Front panel circuit mod:  very easy Pin 7-to-through-hole mod.

4. R91 mod:  it wasn't necessary for K3 S/N 718; the existing resistor 
reads 22 ohms.


5. KRX3 assembly and installation.

Mods 2, 3, and 4 were done while the K3 was apart for the KRX3 work.  
The KRX3 construction and installation were successful.  My only 
comments for Elecraft and builders are 1) the necessity of a small Allen 
wrench for removing the VFO B encoder (p. 18 -- I had the proper wrench 
left over from my K2 construction) and 2) another reminder to check the 
KRX3 PCB nubs before completely installing it inside the bottom shield 
-- I had to file a few nubs for a proper fit.


Many thanks to N6XG for his helpful e-mails during the KRX3 work.

K3 assembly/disassembly:  thus far the rig doesn't show any wear and 
tear, just a few less-than-fresh screw heads.  The process definitely 
gets easier with practice.


Now I see there's another KIO3 mod coming up -- the K3 might remain on 
my desk a little while longer until I can complete that work.


Finally, don't forget Elecraft offers not one but two great 100w rigs -- 
I remain one of the die-hard K2 fans; mine keeps plugging along very 
well for contesting and DXing.  See you on-the-air with it during RTTY 
Roundup and again from KH6-land next year.


73,

John, N7ON K2 #5023
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[Elecraft] K3: power out V, A readings

2008-12-21 Thread DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
Well, prompted by the interesting discourse here, I decided to ignore
my bulk and get on the floor to make some measurements at the PS
(RS35A).

K3 on Receive: 13.60 volts
K3 at 120 watts output:  13.59 volts

H.

Okay, so then did voltage (and amp) readings using the K3 itself.
Watts are also read from the K3.

Receive:  13.6  /  0.75

Xmit :
watts output / voltage / amps (xmit is CW, key down)
0.0 / 13.4  /  1.75
1.0 / 13.4  /  2.14
2.0 / 13.4  /  2.49
3.0 / 13.3  /  2.66
4.0 / 13.3  /  2.84
5.0 / 13.3  /  2.96
10 / 13.1  /  3.61
12 / 13.1  /  3.88
13 / 13.3  /  7.48   (KPA kicks in)
20 / 13.3  /  8.64
30 / 13.2  /  10.21
40 / 13.2  /  11.38
50 / 13.1  /  12.45
60 / 13.1  /  13.20
70 / 13.1  /  14.07
80 / 13.1  /  14.83
90 / 13.1  /  15.64
100 / 13.0  /  16.40
110 / 13.0  /  16.97
120 / 12.9 flickering to 13.0  /  17.66

Well, the Astron appears to be VFB after about 3 decades of service.  :-)

So...do these numbers tell us anything?

de Doug KR2Q
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RE: [Elecraft] K3: power out V, A readings

2008-12-21 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire
Those numbers look similar to mine if you're testing on 40 meters, Doug. 

The efficiency of the K3's transmitter varies from band to band, with (IMX)
40 meters having the best efficiency and so the lowest current drain vs. RF
output. 

Ron 

-Original Message-

Well, prompted by the interesting discourse here, I decided to ignore
my bulk and get on the floor to make some measurements at the PS
(RS35A).

K3 on Receive: 13.60 volts
K3 at 120 watts output:  13.59 volts

H.

Okay, so then did voltage (and amp) readings using the K3 itself.
Watts are also read from the K3.

Receive:  13.6  /  0.75

Xmit :
watts output / voltage / amps (xmit is CW, key down)
0.0 / 13.4  /  1.75
1.0 / 13.4  /  2.14
2.0 / 13.4  /  2.49
3.0 / 13.3  /  2.66
4.0 / 13.3  /  2.84
5.0 / 13.3  /  2.96
10 / 13.1  /  3.61
12 / 13.1  /  3.88
13 / 13.3  /  7.48   (KPA kicks in)
20 / 13.3  /  8.64
30 / 13.2  /  10.21
40 / 13.2  /  11.38
50 / 13.1  /  12.45
60 / 13.1  /  13.20
70 / 13.1  /  14.07
80 / 13.1  /  14.83
90 / 13.1  /  15.64
100 / 13.0  /  16.40
110 / 13.0  /  16.97
120 / 12.9 flickering to 13.0  /  17.66

Well, the Astron appears to be VFB after about 3 decades of service.  :-)

So...do these numbers tell us anything?

de Doug KR2Q
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[Elecraft] Fw: Err Pl2

2008-12-21 Thread Randy Downs
Found the problem.
Randy
K8RDD
- Original Message - 
From: Randy Downs 
To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 1:45 PM
Subject: Err Pl2


Just installed the KRX3 and I am getting PL2 error on the sub on 10 and 12 
meters. I did the adc cal on pin 2 on acc jack. It measured 4.91 and I set the 
config. parameter accordingly. I'll email Aptos and see what they say.  It 
works fine on other bands. Checked connections etc. to no avail. Any ideas? 
Randy
K8RDD___
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[Elecraft] K3 SSB Contour Filter (reduce total bandwidth)

2008-12-21 Thread Tony Fegan VE3QF

K3 SSB Contour Filter

	Recently I was reminiscing about Narrow Band Voice Modulation which 
was developed in the late 1970s by Tom Lott VE2AGF and R.W.Harris, 
WB6CZX. An important part of this system relies on the fact that between 
the low frequency vowel sounds and the high frequency consonants is an 
almost void of several hundred Hertz. Lloyd Butler VK5BR developed a 
hardware filter but I was looking for a computer filter program to 
investigate and experiment with this.


	After hunting around on the internet, I suddenly realized that my K3 
with KRX3 was all I needed. I locked the VFOs and set the filter on the 
main receiver to 350-750 Hz and the sub-receiver to 1400-2400 Hz. 
Listening to both receivers is equivalent to a a single receiver with a 
bandwidth of 2050 Hz and a notch from 750 Hz to 1400 Hz. This gives a 
total bandwidth of 1400 Hz with acceptable audio quality. On some SSB 
signals it is possible to reduce the total bandwidth down to 900 Hz. 
Reduced bandwidth means better S/N ratio.


	I had one signal (USB) with QRM from 1 kHz below. Almost no copy with 
normal tight filter but 100% copy with 700 Hz to 1500 Hz notched out. 
So, it looks promising but needs some more testing.


	Setting filters on CW is relatively simple. On SSB there are so many 
variables as you have to consider the transmitted signal, QRM and also 
the preferences of the receive operator. It is almost essential to have 
preset settings that can be recalled to suit the transmitted voice 
characteristics and various levels of noise and QRM.


	I am not an audio engineer or a programmer but it should be possible to 
develop a firmware (SSB contour) filter with a wide adjustable notch. I 
think it would be a worthwhile addition to the K3.


	Give the receiver/sub-receiver method a try and see if it helps you 
combat noise and QRM while contesting and chasing DX. If you like it, we 
will have to talk nicely to Lyle!


73
Tony Fegan VE3QF
K3 #137


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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Hardware Updates

2008-12-21 Thread Benson
I have found Excelite screwdrivers in general are good, and I have 
also found good ones at Ace Hardware.


I like the German-made tools from Wiha and Wera. I ordered a set of Wiha 
screwdrivers in a canvas pouch from chadstoolbox.com but they arrived 
too late for the K3 build.
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[Elecraft] K3 VFO A tension

2008-12-21 Thread Gary Smith
Interesting issue with the VFO A. I can't adjust the tension to the 
way I like it. I installed it with the one nut to the inside and the 
two nuts to the outside, the lucite cover on and then put the one 
felt washer on before tightening it down.

The VFO feels loose to me with a small amnt. of pressure applied 
during tightening of the allen screw. If I push it all the way down 
firmly to increase friction, it feels about right for part of a 
revolution but snags during the other part of the revolution. A 
closer inspection shows the encoder assembly shaft is not perfectly 
perpendicular to the face and it created minor scoring of the clear 
plastic trim panel where the outer edge of the knob rubbed against 
it. A review inspection showed the encoder is seated fully and 
tightened properly.

I did have to unscrew (as suggested i the assembly. manual), the one 
screw on the 2D fastener to put on the front panel as it snagged on 
the board. Other than that, all went together as explained.

To try  distance the edge of the dial from the plastic, I added the 
extra felt washer to give it some distance and this seems to work but 
now rotation is accompanied by a noticeable sound of felt on felt as 
I turn VFO A. It still does not feel really smooth with the double 
felt.

VFO B on the other hand turns essentially silently with the perfect 
amount of tension.

Anyone else have this issue and found a good solution?

Gary
KA1J
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Re: [Elecraft] OT: new SS amps

2008-12-21 Thread w6jd
I have owned an ALS-600 for the last 5 years and have, for the most
part been quite happy with it. I did an expensive solution to the no QSK
problem by purchasing the Ameritron QSK-5; the pair work flawlessly
together with fast, thump free,  full QSK.

My biggest complaint with the '600 is the really cheap-o, Mickey Mouse,
decal for the front panel labling. The thing has a tendancy to start peeling
along the edges of the panel, bulging out, and basicly looking like hell. I
find a carefull application of something like Bondini II between the decal
and the panel works fairly well to re-attach it.

In the case of the QSK-5...it is VERY sensitive to high SWR (I still haven't
determined what HIGH actually is). Anyway, when HIGH is exceded, the
 two parallel 12V bulbs, used to protect the pin diodes, go bye bye and
need to be replaced. After you have ordered the replacements from Ameritron
you have to open up the QSK-5, unsolder the old bulbs and solder in the
new ones. This is certainly not difficult, just simply annoying...I've had to do
this 3 or 4 times and finally ordered a handfull of the little beauties so I'm
prepared. A resetable fuse or socketed bulb would be a real improvement
to the device.

As far as Elecraft amps..it seems to me that high power amplifires are basically
a comodity item, bringing out another amp simply dilutes the market,
unless there are compelling features to make it stand out from the crowd. It
will, at best, hold its own. I would hate to see Elecraft embark on a money
losing venture, especially in the current economy.

Despite all that I would love to have a KPA-800!

Doug,
W6JD
K2/100  #1626
K3/100  #23

-- Original message -- 
From: Sandy ebj...@charter.net 

 Who can afford almost $3K? Ham radio getting way outta my league! 
 
 73, 
 
 
 I just ran into this by accident. 
  
  http://www.ameritron.com/catalog/Ameritron_2009.pdf 
  
  See page 9. 
  
  No stated expected delivery 
  Not enough specs for my liking, but still, rather interesting. 
  Is this contest grade? Who knows? 
  
  I have no vested interest in this company. 
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 No virus found in this incoming message. 
 Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com 
 Version: 8.0.176 / Virus Database: 270.9.19/1857 - Release Date: 12/19/2008 
 10:09 AM 
 
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RE: [Elecraft] K3: power out V, A readings

2008-12-21 Thread Joe Subich, W4TV

 Okay, so then did voltage (and amp) readings using the K3 
 itself. Watts are also read from the K3.
 
 Receive:  13.6  /  0.75

13.6 is a little low.  I would touch up the trimmer on the 
regulator to make the voltage 13.9 or 14.0 on receive.  The 
K3 and particularly any accessory connected to the +12V jack 
will be much happier. 

 10 / 13.1  /  3.61
 12 / 13.1  /  3.88
 13 / 13.3  /  7.48   (KPA kicks in)
 20 / 13.3  /  8.64

Note the voltage comes back up when the KPA kicks in (the 
current through Q2 drops from about 3.8A to around 2.3A). 
All of these track what I have been seeing. 

73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV 
  



 -Original Message-
 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
 [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL
 Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 1:53 PM
 To: Elecraft Reflector
 Subject: [Elecraft] K3: power out  V, A readings
 
 
 Well, prompted by the interesting discourse here, I decided 
 to ignore my bulk and get on the floor to make some 
 measurements at the PS (RS35A).
 
 K3 on Receive: 13.60 volts
 K3 at 120 watts output:  13.59 volts
 
 H.
 
 Okay, so then did voltage (and amp) readings using the K3 
 itself. Watts are also read from the K3.
 
 Receive:  13.6  /  0.75
 
 Xmit :
 watts output / voltage / amps (xmit is CW, key down)
 0.0 / 13.4  /  1.75
 1.0 / 13.4  /  2.14
 2.0 / 13.4  /  2.49
 3.0 / 13.3  /  2.66
 4.0 / 13.3  /  2.84
 5.0 / 13.3  /  2.96
 10 / 13.1  /  3.61
 12 / 13.1  /  3.88
 13 / 13.3  /  7.48   (KPA kicks in)
 20 / 13.3  /  8.64
 30 / 13.2  /  10.21
 40 / 13.2  /  11.38
 50 / 13.1  /  12.45
 60 / 13.1  /  13.20
 70 / 13.1  /  14.07
 80 / 13.1  /  14.83
 90 / 13.1  /  15.64
 100 / 13.0  /  16.40
 110 / 13.0  /  16.97
 120 / 12.9 flickering to 13.0  /  17.66
 
 Well, the Astron appears to be VFB after about 3 decades of 
 service.  :-)
 
 So...do these numbers tell us anything?
 
 de Doug KR2Q



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[Elecraft] K3 power in RTTY

2008-12-21 Thread Bob Tellefsen
I understand the 100w version has to watch its power level
when used in high duty cycle modes.

Does anyone know about the 10w version?  I'll be doing
RTTY with my K3 at 5w.  I assume that is low enough for
the 10w PA to get along fine, but I'd like to know for sure.
Couldn't find a mention in the manual.

73, Bob N6WG
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[Elecraft] FS: K2 and/or KPA-100 + KAT-100

2008-12-21 Thread Jim Wiley


Posted again for those that might have missed the earlier listing:   K2 
with almost all options and/or  KPA-100 + KAT-100 in EC-2 case for 
sale.Available separately or as a complete station, additional 
savings if you purchase all of it at one time.


Several additional K2 accessories available separately, with or without 
the base rig.  Professionally assembled and aligned, everything works 
per specifications.  Non-smoker, like new appearance,  no dents, dings, 
scratches, etc.  Priced significantly less than kit price.  Shipped 
prepaid via FedEx to any of the 50 USA states.



Contact me off list for complete details.


- Jim, KL7CC
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[Elecraft] Re: [Moon-net] WSJT and K3

2008-12-21 Thread Lance Collister, W7GJ

QROradio wrote:

All,

Given the nices specs I am considering to buy a K3 trx. (it's almost 
X-mas anyway...)

With transverters this rig will also be used on EME.

I wonder how that will work with WSJT.
The K3 uses a digital IF, with A/D, DSP and D/A conversion.
How would that dual conversion influence the analogue audiostream 
which is going to the sound card where (again) A/D conversion takes 
place.


Willl valuable (low level) information be lost or should this work 
without any degradation.


I wonder if someone already has some experience with a K3 and WSJT.
Also I would like to know what the theoretical influence (if any) 
would be.


Thanks for any comments given.

73 Henk
PA0C



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Hello Henk,

One of the nice things I enjoy about my K3 on JT65 modes is that I have 
a relatively flat bandpass response over an entire 4 KHz for when I am 
in the USB position with my 6 KHz wide roofing filter.  This makes it 
possible to utilize the full ability available in the program to decode 
signals in that passband without changing frequency. It is great for 
pileups, where the callers can spread out to avoid QRMing each other.  
The bandpass shaping of my old receiver was not nearly that broad.


I am sure you will enjoy using your K3 on EME.  GL and VY 73, Lance

--
Lance Collister, W7GJ (ex: WN3GPL, WA3GPL, WA1JXN, WA1JXN/C6A, ZF2OC/ZF8)
P.O. Box 73
Frenchtown, MT  59834  USA
QTH: DN27UB
TEL: (406) 626-5728
URL: http://www.bigskyspaces.com/w7gj
2m DXCC #11/6m DXCC #815 




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[Elecraft] Excellent control software TRX-Manager

2008-12-21 Thread VE3NFK

Hi

Not free - but supports: sub receiver, filters, menus, full display,
integrates rotator, SteppIR, DX-Cluster, Logbook, LP products
DX-Map, remote and much more.

www.trx-manager.com

Biased - an original user and beta tester, and Laurent made the 
K3 work well with it  - he has just ordered one himself.

Give it a try - it is worth a look for no charge.

73  John VE3NFK
-- 
View this message in context: 
http://n2.nabble.com/Excellent-control-software--TRX-Manager-tp1688042p1688042.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 SSB Contour Filter (reduce total bandwidth)

2008-12-21 Thread David Cutter

Didn't they use something like this in the space programs?

David
G3UNA



K3 SSB Contour Filter

Recently I was reminiscing about Narrow Band Voice Modulation which 
was developed in the late 1970s by Tom Lott VE2AGF and R.W.Harris, 
WB6CZX. An important part of this system relies on the fact that between 
the low frequency vowel sounds and the high frequency consonants is an 
almost void of several hundred Hertz. Lloyd Butler VK5BR developed a 
hardware filter but I was looking for a computer filter program to 
investigate and experiment with this.


After hunting around on the internet, I suddenly realized that my K3 
with KRX3 was all I needed. I locked the VFOs and set the filter on the 
main receiver to 350-750 Hz and the sub-receiver to 1400-2400 Hz. 
Listening to both receivers is equivalent to a a single receiver with a 
bandwidth of 2050 Hz and a notch from 750 Hz to 1400 Hz. This gives a 
total bandwidth of 1400 Hz with acceptable audio quality. On some SSB 
signals it is possible to reduce the total bandwidth down to 900 Hz. 
Reduced bandwidth means better S/N ratio.


I had one signal (USB) with QRM from 1 kHz below. Almost no copy with 
normal tight filter but 100% copy with 700 Hz to 1500 Hz notched out. 
So, it looks promising but needs some more testing.


Setting filters on CW is relatively simple. On SSB there are so many 
variables as you have to consider the transmitted signal, QRM and also 
the preferences of the receive operator. It is almost essential to have 
preset settings that can be recalled to suit the transmitted voice 
characteristics and various levels of noise and QRM.


I am not an audio engineer or a programmer but it should be possible to 
develop a firmware (SSB contour) filter with a wide adjustable notch. I 
think it would be a worthwhile addition to the K3.


Give the receiver/sub-receiver method a try and see if it helps you 
combat noise and QRM while contesting and chasing DX. If you like it, we 
will have to talk nicely to Lyle!


73
Tony Fegan VE3QF
K3 #137



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Re: [Elecraft] Fw: Err Pl2

2008-12-21 Thread Randy Downs
Thought I found the problem. I had pulled the top off and found a tmp cable 
resting on the toroid on the bottom of the 2nd synth board. It ran for several 
hours with no problem after moving the cable. THEN I put the top back on. It 
failed when the fp temp got to 37 deg c. If I leave the top off it won't fail. 
The fp stays at 34deg c. It's thermal whatever it is. I'll email Aptos. Ken 
have you tried it with the top off? Maybe yours is thermal also.
Randy
K8RDD
  - Original Message - 
  From: Kenneth Moorman 
  To: 'Randy Downs' 
  Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 5:38 PM
  Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Fw: Err Pl2


  Hi Randy,

   

  I would be quite interested in what you found regarding this problem.  I 
encountered the same problem yesterday after having my KRX3 for about 2 months. 
 It only would give the error message you mentioned when trying to get the sub 
to either of those two bands.  Following a suggestion in the owner's manual 
under the error codes, I did a CONFIG:VCO MD CAL, and it began to work on 10M, 
still failing on 12M.  At the conclusion of the CAL routine, however, it gives 
the error code ERR VCO   E00228.  I have sent info this to Elecraft to see 
what I should do next and expect to hear back tomorrow.  But I would love to 
know what you have found as the problem seems the same as mine.  Thanks for any 
insight.

   

  73,

   

  Ken, NU4I

   


--

  From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Randy Downs
  Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 2:24 PM
  To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
  Subject: [Elecraft] Fw: Err Pl2

   

  Found the problem.

  Randy

  K8RDD

  - Original Message - 

  From: Randy Downs 

  To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 

  Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 1:45 PM

  Subject: Err Pl2

   

  Just installed the KRX3 and I am getting PL2 error on the sub on 10 and 12 
meters. I did the adc cal on pin 2 on acc jack. It measured 4.91 and I set the 
config. parameter accordingly. I'll email Aptos and see what they say.  It 
works fine on other bands. Checked connections etc. to no avail. Any ideas? 

  Randy

  K8RDD
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Re: [Elecraft] No Audio for Paddle on K3/10

2008-12-21 Thread Don Wilhelm

Frank,

Did you perhaps plug the paddles into the KEY jack?  That would make one 
side of the paddles behave like a straight key.


As for the loss of sidetone, I don't know, but is there a chance that 
you reduced the level of the Monitor?  Hold the CMP/PWR/MON knob in 
until you see MON n in the VFO B display - rotate the knob to change the 
level.


73,
Don W3FPR

Frank MacDonell wrote:

Looking for help. Not sure what I did...but I have
no audio for the paddle and the paddle is working as a straight key
but.I can see letters on the display. Any ideas?
Thanks for your help.
  


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[Elecraft] ERR PL2 (or ERR PL1, or ERR VCO): tentative solution

2008-12-21 Thread wayne burdick

Randy Downs wrote:

Thought I found the problemTHEN I put the top back on. It failed 
when the fp temp got to 37 deg c. If I leave the top off it won't 
fail. The fp stays at 34 deg c. It's thermal whatever it is.


Randy,

Coincidentally, I just e-mailed you tentative instructions on how to 
fix this. It takes one resistor. Please give it a try.


I discovered the problem Friday night. In rare cases, VCO operating 
current may be inadequate on the highest bands once the rig has warmed 
up. This can be cured by increasing the nominal current supplied to the 
oscillator JFET (Q1). To do this, R10 is reduced in value from 82 K to 
about 56 K.


Here are the rough instructions if anyone else needs them now (or you 
can wait for the official modification doc):


1. Turn off the K3 and remove the affected KSYN3 module. (Note: If you 
saw ERR PL1, it's the main synth; ERR PL2 is the sub synth.)


2. Locate a 1/8-watt or 1/4-watt 180 K resistor (or any value from 150 
to 200 K). Solder it on the top side of the KSYN3 PC board, between the 
pad marked DET and the pad closest to it (going in the direction of 
J83, not the pad labeled G). [Photo to be supplied in the 
modification doc.]  Technical note: This resistor will be in parallel 
with R10, resulting in a value of around 56 K rather than the original 
180 K.


3. Re-install the synth board and turn the rig back on.

4. Make sure your K3 firmware is at rev 2.73 or later. If you haven't 
adjusted the CONFIG:ADC REF menu parameter, do so now, using the 
instructions in the revision 2.73 firmware release notes (accessible 
from within K3 Utility).


5. Re-run VCO CAL (remember to tap SUB within the VCO MD menu entry if 
you're calibrating the second synth).


This change can be safely made to any synthesizer module.

73,
Wayne
N6KR

---

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[Elecraft] TX INHIBIT

2008-12-21 Thread Niko Cimbur
Before I start tearing things apart, and rewiring connectors I would like to 
ask if anyone has found an easy way to get +5V from the ACC connector to use 
for TX Inhibit on pin 7?

Searching the list archive I found that this question was asked before by N1EU:
Is there a convenient +5V source for
wiring the required pull-up resistor to Aux I/O Pin 7?, no answer to it was 
found.  

I am looking at taking out one of the grounds at pin 5 or 12 and running a 
jumper from RP2 (10 k resistor chip with unused pins).

I don't want to use the 12VDC out for this purpose.

Niko - AC6DD


  
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RE: [Elecraft] K3 VFO A tension

2008-12-21 Thread W7TMT

Well, I'll jump in here. I had the same problem a few months ago when I
assembled S/N 1889. The VFO A knob was way too loose no matter what I did. I
had followed the instructions and installed one (1) felt washer under both
the VFO A and B knobs. The B knob was fine. The A knob couldn't be adjusted
to my liking. Then I noticed I had an extra felt washer (i.e., a total of
three were included in the package). I added the second washer and life is
good. I have it setup so I can spin it and get a nice smooth run (maybe 6 or
8 turns) as it freewheels but yet for my taste it's not too loose.

Like everything else of course it's all a matter of taste. Two washers
worked for me. If it was an accident (they included too many) then it was
fortuitous in my case. If by chance you have a third washer install it and
life will be good.

73/Patrick
W7TMT
  


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RE: [Elecraft] K3 VFO A tension

2008-12-21 Thread Gary Smith
Hi Patrick,

Indeed there was a third felt washer with mine too. Presently I do 
have it installed with the 2nd one in place. My knob wasn't loose 
though, it was quite firmly attached once tightened. When I first 
felt the knob rotate properly for say, 200 degrees of rotation  then 
bind a little for the remaining 160 degrees (making up numbers here 
but fairly accurate), I removed the knob and saw a little circular 
scratch on the clear plastic cover where the edge of the knob had 
scored it. I then put the knob back in place  put the K3 on end  
looked from underneath along the front plane  saw the knob was 
resting with a slight tilt. Again though, this knob wasn't loose, it 
was firmly attached.

I removed the knob  put the 2nd felt washer on top of the first to 
get it off the plastic and add some tension and then tried it again 
but when rotating the knob, I could hear a felt on felt sound like 
scuffing two chalkboard erasers face to face. Not the end of the 
world or anything but VFO B makes only the faintest of hi from 
the felt and B acts perfect.

The Best tension I can get for the A knob isn't as good as the VFO B 
which feels darned good to rotate. I did rotate each of the shafts 
before assembly to be sure they were OK  they both rotate with zip 
friction. 

I could forego any friction at all  it would be fine  easy to 
rotate but it would be a constant annoyance when I bump the VFO  
then be moved away from a frequency I'd narrowed in on. Since I will 
forever be using VFO A, I do need it to feel natural.

Gary
KA1J

 Well, I'll jump in here. I had the same problem a few months ago when I
 assembled S/N 1889. The VFO A knob was way too loose no matter what I did. I
 had followed the instructions and installed one (1) felt washer under both
 the VFO A and B knobs. The B knob was fine. The A knob couldn't be adjusted
 to my liking. Then I noticed I had an extra felt washer (i.e., a total of
 three were included in the package). I added the second washer and life is
 good. I have it setup so I can spin it and get a nice smooth run (maybe 6 or
 8 turns) as it freewheels but yet for my taste it's not too loose.
 
 Like everything else of course it's all a matter of taste. Two washers
 worked for me. If it was an accident (they included too many) then it was
 fortuitous in my case. If by chance you have a third washer install it and
 life will be good.
 
 73/Patrick
 W7TMT
   
 
 
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[Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Report for December 22nd, 2008

2008-12-21 Thread Kevin Rock
Good evening,
   Happily there were a few folks I could hear.  One for each net to be exact.  
It got to the point where I checked the antenna a few times after I had already 
checked if it had survived the storms.  Yes, it is still there and there is not 
much ice on it either.  I also programmed the CQ message into the rig so I 
could read while the radio was calling.  This has never happened to me before.  
I don't know what the bands are doing because I could hear people on both of 
them before I started the net.  Is everyone off doing things?  I may be the 
only one home alone on a Sunday night.  But some of you write that you only 
read my announcements and reports :)  I am sure Eric would say something if we 
did not have an Elecraft net associated with my weekly epistles so something 
needs to change.  Should we eliminate one of the bands?  Move the times?  Or 
should we get someone else to run them?  Any input would be of interest.  
 
   On to the lists =

   On 14050 kHz at z:
NS7P - Phil - OR - K3 - 1826

   On 7045 kHz at 0300z:
W6ZH - Pete - CA - K3 - 657

   Both of these stations were 599 to me but both gave me a 339 in return.  It 
is very strange that I can hear an Oregon station so strongly on 20 meters.  
Pete is normally pretty strong to me on 40 meters so this is not unusual.  I 
wonder what sort of odd propagation is occurring tonight.  I hope it fixes 
itself before the Tuesday and Thursday night Fox hunts though.  I would like to 
get at least one of the four foxes.  
   The weather has calmed down.  I got a little freezing rain, then a little 
sleet, and then snow for the rest of the day.  Currently there is no snow 
falling but that is due to change.  Luckily the winds are very mild.  Last 
night they were gusting so there are bits of fir tree all over the snow.  My 
stairs are mostly buried.  The top of the snow is over the third step so I must 
tread lightly and count steps on my way down.  Fortunately, if I fall the snow 
will bouy me up.  
   Until next week have a very Merry Christmas and stay warm, dry, and well,
  73,
 Kevin.  KD5ONS  (Net Control Operator 5th Class)

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RE: [Elecraft] K3 VFO A tension

2008-12-21 Thread VK5ABQ

I was annoyed by the felt on felt hiss generated by rotation of VFO A and
took about six attempts to find a compromise between hiss and rotation
damping. Ideally I would prefer it to rotate less easily though.


-
Shane
K3/10: S/N 2127, KBPF3, KFL3B-FM, KFL3A-6K, KFL3A-2.8K, KFL3A-400, KTCXO3-1
 KXV3.
-- 
View this message in context: 
http://n2.nabble.com/K3-VFO-A-tension-tp1688263p1688878.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 VFO A tension

2008-12-21 Thread Bob
First I don't have a K3 being only a lowly K2 owner.  So I'm throwing 
this out into the ring as a possible solution.


In the Elecraft spirit I modified it by changing to a larger knob that I 
liked but was not happy with the tension.
The knob was also unbalanced and if it came to rest at a certain 
position the rig would Drift.  Two washers was
to loose and 3 was way too tight and I could never find the right knob 
height for either combination.


The local hardware store had what they called fender washers  and were 
large enough to match the felt washer.
The ideal combo was a sandwich of a felt-fender washer-felt.  


73,
Bob
K2TK

 


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RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Report for December 22nd, 2008

2008-12-21 Thread Phil and Christina
Hi Kevin,

Remember that today was the solstice.  The days will get longer now, keeping 
20M open longer.  When you first started to call at Z, you were readable, 
but you dropped as the net time progressed.  I copied you 339 deteriorating to 
229 fairly quickly.  I may have been stronger because I had the quad pointed 
north at you and drove the K3 into an SB-200 at about 500W out.  I was busy at 
0300Z so that I couldn't try 40M.  Let's see how it goes.  Keep up the good 
work.

73,

Phil, NS7P



-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net]on Behalf Of Kevin Rock
Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 7:51 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Report for December 22nd, 2008


Good evening,
   Happily there were a few folks I could hear.  One for each net to be exact.  
It got to the point where I checked the antenna a few times after I had already 
checked if it had survived the storms.  Yes, it is still there and there is not 
much ice on it either.  I also programmed the CQ message into the rig so I 
could read while the radio was calling.  This has never happened to me before.  
I don't know what the bands are doing because I could hear people on both of 
them before I started the net.  Is everyone off doing things?  I may be the 
only one home alone on a Sunday night.  But some of you write that you only 
read my announcements and reports :)  I am sure Eric would say something if we 
did not have an Elecraft net associated with my weekly epistles so something 
needs to change.  Should we eliminate one of the bands?  Move the times?  Or 
should we get someone else to run them?  Any input would be of interest.  
 
   On to the lists =

   On 14050 kHz at z:
NS7P - Phil - OR - K3 - 1826

   On 7045 kHz at 0300z:
W6ZH - Pete - CA - K3 - 657

   Both of these stations were 599 to me but both gave me a 339 in return.  It 
is very strange that I can hear an Oregon station so strongly on 20 meters.  
Pete is normally pretty strong to me on 40 meters so this is not unusual.  I 
wonder what sort of odd propagation is occurring tonight.  I hope it fixes 
itself before the Tuesday and Thursday night Fox hunts though.  I would like to 
get at least one of the four foxes.  
   The weather has calmed down.  I got a little freezing rain, then a little 
sleet, and then snow for the rest of the day.  Currently there is no snow 
falling but that is due to change.  Luckily the winds are very mild.  Last 
night they were gusting so there are bits of fir tree all over the snow.  My 
stairs are mostly buried.  The top of the snow is over the third step so I must 
tread lightly and count steps on my way down.  Fortunately, if I fall the snow 
will bouy me up.  
   Until next week have a very Merry Christmas and stay warm, dry, and well,
  73,
 Kevin.  KD5ONS  (Net Control Operator 5th Class)

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RE: [Elecraft] K3 SSB Contour Filter (reduce total bandwidth)

2008-12-21 Thread Tony Fegan VE3QF

Hi Gary,
	Thanks for your interest. I am quite aware that the gurus at Elecraft 
are extremely busy and need evidence that firmware changes are 
beneficial. That is why I asked that those with the KRX3 should try my 
method and report their findings.
	This method is only good for evaluation but you don't want to tie up 
the KRX3 with it.
	The brain seems quite happy with a large chunk of bandwidth missing. We 
are not talking Hi-Fi but intelligibility. Try it and make your own 
decision.
	The K3 has a great CW receiver but SSB improvements seem to be on the 
back burner.


73
Tony VE3QF


Gary Hvizdak wrote:

Hi Tony,

 

This sounds very cool and your approach most ingenious.  However, it 
is likely that Wayne and/or Lyle would want sufficient evidence 
regarding the value of this sort of notch filtering, before expending 
the effort to implement it in firmware.  In the mean time, your dual RX 
approach using the sub-receiver should provide you with a useable 
workaround method to accomplish such a notch.




 


BTW, I just did a quick search online and found the following link …


http://basic-programming.blogspot.com/2005/10/speech-recognition-formants-for-vowels.html

 

… which implies that there is no such gap in the spectrum “for all vowel 
sounds”.


 


73,

Gary  KI4GGX


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[Elecraft] KPA-1500 KPA-800

2008-12-21 Thread Gary Gregory
Seasons Greetings one and all.:-)


The most intriguing thing about this thread is the deafening silence from
Aptos. As much as we (which I think numbers quite a few) wish they were
available, I think we have a long wait ahead before they appear.

I just can't get my head around Ameritron (Mighty Fine Junk) by any other
name as builders of quality equipment.

I did love my Henry SS-750 in the truck, boy I had a lot of QSO's on
14.302.5 in 2000-2001 whilst driving and working in the US. Call me silly
(or worse) I sold it rather than lug it back to Australia, I still regret
that decision.

Cheers All,
Gary
VK4WT (KD5NHL)
K3 #679
I just got lost in thought. It was unfamiliar territory
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power out

2008-12-21 Thread Leigh L. Klotz, Jr WA5ZNU

David Woolley (E.L) wrote:

Jan Erik Holm wrote:


Please Elecraft, make a FW change and limit the radio
to 100W, thanks!


Human nature being what it is, the likely result of this would be a 
large number of people refusing to upgrade their firmware any further 
and a significant grapevine message about how new purchasers can get 
increased power by downgrading the firmware.


There is quite a significant lobby on this list for the radio to 
impose no restrictions in firmware.


That's putting it well.  Perhaps such features can be optionally 
enabled?  It might satisfy both camps: those who want to get reminders 
not to do stuff they don't want to do, and those who to retain as much 
control as possible locally.


Leigh/WA5ZNU


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