Re: [Elecraft] KX3: thermal frequency drift

2014-04-11 Thread Edward R Cole
It was suggested I do the Temp Compensation Procedure. Unfortunately I do not have a stable 50-MHz signal source. However I did run the Reference Frequency Calibration using my XG3. Call this Part Two: I sampled the RF output of the XG3 with my counter and also input that to the KX3 for the

Re: [Elecraft] KX3-2M module?

2014-04-09 Thread Edward R Cole
OK, there has been a lot speculation but nobody has one yet to test. I both run JT65 on eme and WSPR on VHF and 600 meters, so I am fairly experienced in using these modes. I plan to rigorously test the KX3 + 2M for specs and test running these modes with real eme signals. I can run my K3 +

Re: [Elecraft] KX3-2M module?

2014-04-09 Thread Edward R Cole
Stewart, That's a good question. Certainly lower RF output will generate less heat. One issue that would need to be determined is whether the 2M module has any operating mode which would result in a full output spike which would likely destroy 0 dBm input circuit components. This has been

[Elecraft] OT: MS Update (recent)

2014-04-09 Thread Edward R Cole
I was surprised to see the updates, 32 of them, from MS Update since April 8 had passed. Well, maybe they put it out on April 8. I had successfully downloaded and saved the professional SP3 files, IE8, malware updates, etc. and ran then auto update for my computer. I was surprised to get a

Re: [Elecraft] KX3-2M module?

2014-04-08 Thread Edward R Cole
Frequency drift +/- 10-Hz at 144-MHz may be fine for running digital-mode eme. I typically think of keeping drift 20-Hz as a requirement. It will depend on how rapid the frequency changes and how big the steps. JT65 is fairly adaptable to some drift. When I am in the heat of an eme contest

Re: [Elecraft] K2 problems after lightning

2014-04-07 Thread Edward R Cole
I just wanted to offer a few general suggestions. Do follow Don's expert instructions. A lesson taught me by a fellow bench tech who did not have a lot of tech training was to initially open the unit and carefully look over the circuit board for obvious burnt items! Use your nose for burnt

Re: [Elecraft] KX3-2M module?

2014-04-07 Thread Edward R Cole
Lance, Wayne recently commented that they had some re-design after the first field test round, and were soon to go out with the second field test. I wrote Wayne directly for more info, but have not heard back, as yet...I signed-up to be a field tester so am hoping that I may have one to

Re: [Elecraft] Rig Interface for Digital

2014-04-06 Thread Edward R Cole
Reading all the advice given, it becomes obvious that there is not one perfect interface. But, I use the simplest one: two shielded radio shack stereo audio cables to/from the soundcard (mine are external to the computer) and the original USB/RS-232 adapter cable from Elecraft. That runs my

Re: [Elecraft] PX3

2014-04-05 Thread Edward R Cole
So that sounds like it can be used with the 1st IF of the K3. Having both radios that makes the PX3 even more attractive. Size is really nice for portable operating with KX3. And feed thru of computer control of KX3, nice! Guess we need to add to the piggy bank for one! 73, Ed On Apr 4,

Re: [Elecraft] PX3

2014-04-05 Thread Edward R Cole
if one feeds the K3 IF output to an SDR device (Softrock RX, LP-Pan, SDR-IQ, etc) which does have I/Q outputs, but who knows at this time. At this point, it is only speculation on my part. 73, Don W3FPR On 4/5/2014 2:56 PM, Edward R Cole wrote: So that sounds like it can be used with the 1st

Re: [Elecraft] K3 - Ergonomics

2014-04-04 Thread Edward R Cole
Long ago I mentioned using the last radio I would own argument with my wife to acquire a K3/10. Well, I lied, and subsequently bought the KX3 (to replace my FT-817). The continuous stream of firmware upgrades does make this sort-of true, though. I have sn 4043, and once thought I was the

Re: [Elecraft] Suggestions on Antenna Analyzers

2014-04-03 Thread Edward R Cole
One comment I would make is having a portable, battery-powered, sel-contained analyzer is very handy for checking or tuning antennas outside the shack (like on top of the tower troubleshooting high SWR) or at Field Day or on your vacation setting up a portable antenna. It was very useful for

[Elecraft] K3 - Ergonomics

2014-04-03 Thread Edward R Cole
It took some time getting to know my K3 (I'd say about 3-weeks) till I was fairly comfortable with basic use. The short-vs-long press buttons did require some re-training on my part, but I see the utility of not having to find the FUNCtion button and then a second button to access alternative

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 horizontal 40 meter antenna loop feed connection - HOW?

2014-04-02 Thread Edward R Cole
An alternative to ladder line is running two parallel runs of coax (RG-213) with only center conductors connected to the loop and the radio end center conductors to a balun which solves the unbalanced issue. The two runs of coax can be taped together. Two runs of coax will have something

Re: [Elecraft] Why is KX3 phase noise so much less than the K3 ?

2014-04-02 Thread Edward R Cole
Larry, Not knowing much about the R390A, but Sherwood ranks it very low in phase noise. Xtal oscillators are easier to design with low phase noise than synthesizers. This is primarily why later radios have a problem with noise as most use synthesized LO's, and why the old radios with xtal

Re: [Elecraft] WinXP - SP3 ... too late!

2014-04-01 Thread Edward R Cole
Gary, I thought we were done with this thread, so I will only make this one-more comment. I discovered this on my own and also had many helpful replies, mostly pointing this out. My wife successfully did the manual upgrades and the computer-in-question is running happily. The computer I

Re: [Elecraft] WinXP - SP3 ... too late!

2014-03-30 Thread Edward R Cole
OK, I own this topic :-) Meaning I started it. My purpose was to discover any facts or truths regarding continued use of win-XP. If the upgrades are to become NLA, then it will be harder to keep an older machine running. I think we all know that windows needs to be re-installed on a clean

Re: [Elecraft] WinXP - SP3 ... too late!

2014-03-29 Thread Edward R Cole
Essentially, what we did, so manual upgrade is still possible. But this experience has me wondering if they will continue to have this available after support is pulled? I am going to attempt to download the files to a flashdrive so I will not be relying on MS.com in the future. I plan to

[Elecraft] WinXP - SP3 ... too late!

2014-03-28 Thread Edward R Cole
If you need upgrades to SP3 for win-XP, you may be too late. I rebuilt an old computer a couple weeks ago as it had gotten corrupted and the easiest process was to wipe clean the HD and reinstall windows. I only have a CD with SP2 so have relied on auto-updating to upgrade to SP3. A couple

[Elecraft] OT: West Mountain Radios Comm Speakers

2014-03-28 Thread Edward R Cole
I can testify they work. I have moderate RFI on 6m-20m getting into the old HK computer speakers I used; my wife had RFI in her computer speakers and still has some in her portable AM/FM radio. WMR speakers on her computer and for my KX3 eliminated the RFI for them. I run 125w on 6m and up

[Elecraft] Subject: Re: 2 meter EME considerations with the K3

2014-03-27 Thread Edward R Cole
There are two sources of frequency drift: the TCXO of the K3 and the LO of the transverter. The combined error determines the final frequency stability. Upgrading to the TCXO-3 improves K3 frequency stability by ten. Adding the EXREF board improves this. To improve the transverter LO, it

Re: [Elecraft] Any EME gurus with the XV-144 monitoring?

2014-03-26 Thread Edward R Cole
Charlie, EME depends on the abilities of both stations. For CW-eme on 2m this means the sum of antenna gain of both stations should equal 40 dBi, and the transmit station runs a minimum of 600w output. JT65 effectively increases station performance by roughly 10-dB. That means two

[Elecraft] Any EME gurus with the XV-144 monitoring?

2014-03-25 Thread Edward R Cole
John, I am no help regarding the XV-144 use with JT65 (I do not have the XV-144). But JT65 does not require a linear amplifier. It is FSK and will work with any amplifier that works with CW, including Class-C and Class-E. Of course it will work with linear's if that is what you have. FSK

[Elecraft] K2 and X144

2014-03-24 Thread Edward R Cole
Luc, The subject line, above, says K2 but below you ask about a K3. I can answer if you mean a K3. I assume the K3 has the KXV3 option for transverter interface. If so the Tx and Rx are separated. I do not have a XV144 but will assume it has separate Rx and Tx connections to the KXV3. If

Re: [Elecraft] OT: ECore LMR400

2014-03-23 Thread Edward R Cole
I have not seen or used this brand, but there are several manufacturers of LMR-400 style cable. I bought some on e-bay a couple years ago (think it was Comscope brand) and it checked at the same loss figures as Time's Microwave LMR-400. I am using it in a non-critical system so consider it a

Re: [Elecraft] Digimodes what am I missing?

2014-03-22 Thread Edward R Cole
Not going to try to convince anyone that likes CW that digital is better. But it offers something different. I first started with psk-31 back a decade ago, then added JT44, then JT65 and other of the WSJT suite of digital programs mainly for eme with QRP transmit power (150w). I recently

Re: [Elecraft] Questions re K3 Remote

2014-03-21 Thread Edward R Cole
I googled Teller County and see it is into the mountains back of Colorado Springs so unlikely that you have any chance of a straight shot for a UHF or mw control link. Here in Alaska a lot of hams live in remote 'bush country far from any wireless or wired service. I hear that some are using

[Elecraft] GaFET Preamp for XV144 transverter

2014-03-14 Thread Edward R Cole
Ed: Here are a few relevant numbers: XV144: NF = 0.8 dB SP144VDG: NF=0.55 dB, gain=24 dB, 25w max rating Coax Loss for 25-feet: RG-58= 1.25 dB RG-213= 0.55 dB LMR400= 0.38 With SP144VDG at antenna: system NF=0.61 dB using 25 feet of RG-58 system NF=0.60 dB using 25 feet of LMR-400 so it

[Elecraft] Traveling and US Customs

2014-03-13 Thread Edward R Cole
Ray, I guess it has changed a lot since the time I flew to Winnipeg from Minneapolis in 1999. I specifically telephoned the Canadian customs in Winnipeg to check requirements since I was bringing along a radio to a conference. That is when I discovered the main issue was returning to the

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 through TSA Security ?

2014-03-11 Thread Edward R Cole
One thing you should know about flying on commercial airlines is that they DO NOT guarantee any electronics that is in checked luggage. I had a kit stolen out of my luggage several years ago by airline employees and I only got reimbursement because it was labeled an enclosure and not

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Perfect for Field Day SP ... Limited Production 700 Hz 8-Pole Filters

2014-03-03 Thread Edward R Cole
I wonder if any of you have seen this: Pn = KTB Pn noise power K = Botzmann's Contant = 138 E-20 T = temperature in Kelvin (0C = 273K) B = bandwidth in Hz convert to dB: Pn = Log (KTB) = -198.6 + LogT + LogB If B = 2.7 KHZ, LogB = 44.3 dB If T = 290K (room temp), LogT = 24.6 then Pn =

Re: [Elecraft] K3 Off Grid (Alaska)

2014-03-03 Thread Edward R Cole
I can tell you about living off the grid. 1979-1989 I lived in a small community two miles from any infrastructure. In fact I lived in a one-room cabin for most of that time and for three years in a wall tent. My electricity was a Sear Marine Diehard battery. I kept it charged either with

Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft compatible WX station

2014-03-02 Thread Edward R Cole
Probably overkill on wx station comments. I bought a Peet Bros Ultimeter 800 at Dayton last year and it blew apart in 50mph wind gusts a month ago. I wondered why I was seeing 0mph and the trees were laying over at 45-degrees! ;-) I had been having electronic problems before the storm:

Re: [Elecraft] The case for a Panadapter - I'm convinced!

2014-03-01 Thread Edward R Cole
From: Jim Lowman jmlow...@sbcglobal.net To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] The case for a Panadapter - I'm convinced! --- Jim, I would suspect having both the P3 and KXV3 subRx would be the ultimate combo, as you could tune the subRx to whatever mid-frequency you

Re: [Elecraft] Advice on 6 meters...

2014-02-26 Thread Edward R Cole
I have a friend that loads his G5RV for 6m but his signal is always about 20-dB weaker than mine. I have a 3-element yagi that I converted from a Decibel-Products 73-MHz yagi that I scrounged up from pile of surplus stuff. The elements were 3/8-inch aluminum tubing so I added some tubing

Re: [Elecraft] KPA100 recommended max power for digital modes?

2014-02-23 Thread Edward R Cole
Glenn, My guess is most figured you were referring to the KXPA100, but your question even has more general reach. Since full output for the KXPA-100 is cited with 10w drive, it is a good guess that 3w = 30w, 4w= 40w, etc. In reality the gain curve for amplifiers is not that flat and often

[Elecraft] (no subject)

2014-02-22 Thread Edward R Cole
Good points: JT-65 is 100% duty cycle unlike CW or SSB that are much lower duty cycle. The issue is dissipation power in your finals. I run JT-65 with 1300w and theoretically the 8877 can dissipate 1500w so I am fine (the caveat is the 8877 needs very good air cooling). With no air the

[Elecraft] Subject: Re: PayPal fees

2014-02-19 Thread Edward R Cole
Just a quick comment. I made a purchase using PayPal last night from a ham friend for a piece of equipment. This is the first time I have encountered the choice of purchase for friend or family, or for good and services. I selected goods and services since I was purchasing something ($30

[Elecraft] K3: Mode change while running DATA-A

2014-02-19 Thread Edward R Cole
I'm not asking for help fixing anything but just offering this as interesting phenomena that I encountered. A couple weeks ago I was running digital sw using the mode JT-65c (part of WSJT9.3) on 1296 eme and had two Australian stations reply on a chat room we use for coordinating that my

Re: [Elecraft] K3 10Mhz IF questions with the latest beta

2014-02-13 Thread Edward R Cole
Eric, Thanks for the tip. I tried going with direct freq. enter and ended up in one of my memory locations above 490-KHz (that I run in TEST mode). I don't normally change band using the Band switch, since I have favorite freq. in memory for all bands I use. Just stepping down in bands

Re: [Elecraft] Antenna question

2014-02-12 Thread Edward R Cole
George, You do not say what power you are transmitting and it would be helpful to know the separation between the antennas. Will the vertical be as high as the yagi? Need to know what frequency is used. OK, in lieu of this data I will make some assumptions and show you the math to

[Elecraft] (no subject)

2014-02-12 Thread Edward R Cole
Ralf, Thanks for catching my mistake in the ohm's law formula. P = E^2/R Regarding using the far-field loss formula it is probably prudent to try measuring power on the receiving antenna when transmitting on the other antenna (the yagi). At the very least check with a SWR meter in the

[Elecraft] A confession

2014-02-10 Thread Edward R Cole
I think Chris summarizes the issue pretty good. Gary, it kind sounds like you have not taken the time necessary to really get familiar with your K3 (excuse me if this is incorrect). I found it took me about three weeks of playing and reading the manual until I became fairly comfortable with

Re: [Elecraft] XVTR IF BAND CAN NOW BE 10 OR 18 MHZ

2014-02-05 Thread Edward R Cole
Just to expand a big on what Wayne states: Operation on the upcoming (but not yet established by the FCC) new 600 meter ham band on 472-479 KHz, K3 use is enhanced by this upgrade in the firmware. It allows operating the K3 on 10.472-10.479 MHz as the IF input to a transverter which can use

Re: [Elecraft] Would anyone like to see an all-mode VHF/UHF ??? offering from Elecraft?

2014-02-03 Thread Edward R Cole
I've already made a suggestion on this topic, but here it is again: But let me reply in general that a 6m-23cm (50-1296 MHz) all-mode radio would be desirable in 100w output on the two lower bands and 50w on the rest. NO need for lead weights once the heat sink is installed. It will be lots

Re: [Elecraft] Would anyone like to see an all-mode VHF/UHF ??? offering from Elecraft?

2014-02-03 Thread Edward R Cole
2/3/2014, you wrote: Eric closed this thread a week ago. K9ZTV On 2/3/2014 2:39 PM, Edward R Cole wrote: I've already made a suggestion on this topic, but here it is again: snipped 73, Ed - KL7UW http://www.kl7uw.com Kits made by KL7UW Dubus Mag business: dubus...@gmail.com

Re: [Elecraft] Would anyone like to see an all-mode VHF/UHFoffering from Elecraft?

2014-01-31 Thread Edward R Cole
Ted, You really expected a VHF contest to sound like Field day on the HF bands? That tells me that you do not regularly operate VHF-ssb. I have been pleading with the FM repeater HT hams for years to explore the fun of VHF-ssb/cw/digital modes with multi types of propagation and the

Re: [Elecraft] Would anyone like to see an all-mode VHF/UHFoffering from Elecraft?

2014-01-31 Thread Edward R Cole
Jim, I bought my FT-847 in the first few months after it was introduced in1998 and used it on satellite and eme for ten+ years. I agonized for two years after getting K3 whether to sell. I needed funds to buy two transverters so selling the FT-847 provided funds. But I lost the 440-450 FM

Re: [Elecraft] 2 dB better reception in JT65 mode

2014-01-25 Thread Edward R Cole
Peter, EME is all about detecting the weakest signal (e.g. MDS) so I would attribute this to the low-phase noise of the K3 LO. In fact one of the determining factors for my to chose it as my eme IF radio. Dynamic range would be more important in HF where very strong signals are present at

Re: [Elecraft] High quality stereo cables

2014-01-23 Thread Edward R Cole
Not sure how they stack up on the quality scale but I have had good luck using 1m stereo cables from RS. I've not seen RFI sensitivity and no failures in continuity. I recently retired some cheap computer speakers in favor of West Mountain COMspkr's and needed a speaker cable from my KX3 to

Re: [Elecraft] K3: Speakers

2014-01-21 Thread Edward R Cole
David, I checked my Power supply and it is marked 9vdc at 800ma. Hard to know without opening one up whether a voltage regulator is used in the speaker itself. If your substitute PS is 12v output probably no harm will result. I find most of these wall cube PS rely on loading to bring them

Re: [Elecraft] K3 vs KX3

2014-01-21 Thread Edward R Cole
I bought the K3/10 without 100w PA or ATU. I bought it mainly for superior specs on CW, low phase noise, and versatility with transverters on bands above 6m. I am into eme and mw! The K3 is better (marginally) at this than the KX3, but physically larger so not so handy to haul out to remote

Re: [Elecraft] new K3 owner --- addendum on kits...

2014-01-19 Thread Edward R Cole
Phil and Don, Lighting is key to seeing detail, small objects. In high light the pupil constricts and depth of vision improves. These concepts well known to camera buffs. Want sharp image get higher light levels, better f-stops, shorter exposure time. I used to have a macro-lens for a

Re: [Elecraft] new K3 owner

2014-01-18 Thread Edward R Cole
Spend the time to check off all parts against the parts list. Ensures all is there and aquaints you with many similar looking screws (so you don't use the wrong ones). I bought a large Plano plastic parts box (like a fishing tackle box) with many dividers to place the sorted parts. Some

[Elecraft] KX3 beta firmware rev 1.87-better AM BCB sensitivity

2014-01-15 Thread Edward R Cole
I installed beta rev. 1.87 and selected the BCB=160 and observed my local AM station on 920 KHz go from S8 to S9+5 with PRE on set at 20-dB. I then tuned down to 495 KHz and am able to see signals at S9 that were at noise level before! Noise floor is S6 with BCB=160/PRE ON. With BCB=NOR

[Elecraft] K3: Speakers

2014-01-14 Thread Edward R Cole
I finally ordered and have received my West Mountain COMspkr for use with my KX3. Work very nice and no RF sensitivity (even with 6-elem yagi pointed at . I played with the HI CUT control and found a 2-oclock setting pleased me. I have no equalization set on the KX3. With the control full

Re: [Elecraft] KXPA100 Mobile Operations -- Power Output

2014-01-13 Thread Edward R Cole
I need to correct some of my last statements on this topic (thanks to Dave AB9CA/4 for pointing them out). I apparently was thinking of other battery chemistry than lead-acid batteries. A check with wikipedia reveals that full charge voltage, open-ckt, is 2.1v per cell (12.6v for auto

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Sub RX and E-MU 0204

2014-01-12 Thread Edward R Cole
Joel, Having a emu 0202, I wondered what the 0204 differences would be. Looks to be an upgrade for win7. You can take the emu stereo output as IQ input to SDR sw. I do that for JT65B on 2m-eme. I cheat a little by connecting the K3 line-in to the emu Headphone jack which has a manual

Re: [Elecraft] KXPA100 Mobile Operations -- Power Output

2014-01-12 Thread Edward R Cole
Matt, The dc wiring is not doing the job. You are seeing 11.2-11.8v running 60w! The battery under load should hold 13.2v if it is in good condition and fully charged. That is a voltage drop of 1.6v. You should not see that using awg-8 wire. You mention a relay in the trunk. What is

[Elecraft] OT: CFR-97 Amateur Radio type acceptance

2014-01-08 Thread Edward R Cole
This is spin off of the JARD certification thread. Regarding FCC type acceptance: CFR-47: 97.315 As a general disclaimer FCC regs are written legalese language which is almost impossible to completely translate to common language and logic. 97.315, b) Any external RF power amplifier or

Re: [Elecraft] OT: CFR-97 Amateur Radio type acceptance

2014-01-08 Thread Edward R Cole
in the amateur service. [71 FR 66465, Nov. 15, 2006] __ Note the differences between the above text and the text below from a previous message. - Jim, KL7CC On 1/7/2014 11:43 PM, Edward R Cole wrote: This is spin off of the JARD certification thread. Regarding FCC type acceptance: CFR

Re: [Elecraft] K3EXREF and NavSync CW12-TIM GPS Module

2014-01-08 Thread Edward R Cole
I was one of the beta testers on the K3EXREF. I am using a surplus OCXO bought for about $45 on e-bay. Its output was a distorted sinewave (appears to have strong second harmonic). I removed the harmonic by running the 10-MHz thru a DEMI model 10-4 distribution amp that uses 10-MHz bandpass

[Elecraft] Audio feedback

2014-01-03 Thread Edward R Cole
Dick, You did not indicate if the feedback is in the internal K3 speaker or an external speaker. I have no problem with my K3 using an ext. spkr (but that is because it is unamplified 1950's era National 8-inch speaker). I do get audio feedback with my KX3 because I am using cheap computer

[Elecraft] Shipping. K3

2014-01-03 Thread Edward R Cole
I've not had to ship anything worth $4,000 so have not encountered any packing issues with USPS, UPS, or Fedex. But I would like to say a word about those Pelican Cases. I first encountered them in the workplace 15 years ago when we had a portable VHF repeater built-into one of the smaller

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 / K3 Antenna Sharing

2013-12-31 Thread Edward R Cole
I am using a couple DAIWA manual coax switches. 2-pos selects either K3/10 or KX3 (at 12w) and 4-pos is for antenna selection at 300w from the amplifier. I do not use coax switches at QRO levels but I only run that on 6m and 2m with dedicated antenna so no switching is needed (I do use coax

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Full SDR

2013-12-31 Thread Edward R Cole
I am in general agreement with what Greg writes, below (but with some comments inserted); Date: Tue, 31 Dec 2013 12:38:28 -0500 From: Greg Troxel g...@lexort.com To: Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net, Craig Schroeder cra...@neb.rr.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Full

Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] SDR transmitter issues?

2013-12-29 Thread Edward R Cole
I always get nice comments on my transmit signal using either K3 or KX3, thanks Elecraft! The attention to low phase-noise in the LO was one of the primary reasons I chose the K3 to be the IF for my VHF/UHF/mw transverters. Since I am in the pursuit of very weak-signals this it highly

Re: [Elecraft] 144XV construction experience?

2013-12-28 Thread Edward R Cole
I have preamps on multiple VHF and UHF antennas on the same tower mast. All preamps are powered off together by a master sequencer so if I transmit on one band all others are off. The TR relays also are switched at the same time disconnecting all preamps from their antennas when any one band

[Elecraft] (no subject)

2013-12-28 Thread Edward R Cole
Steve, Although the KRX3 provides no external connection to the 1st IF, I have made a modification to do so (very easily). Details are on my website at: http://www.kl7uw.com/LINRAD.htm This webpage deals with making an adaptive receiver using the K3 wit KRX3. Scroll down the page to the

Re: [Elecraft] Noise Cancelling Headphones

2013-12-26 Thread Edward R Cole
Several years ago I ordered StennHeiser on-ear noise-cancelling headphones for reducing noise on aircraft. This was not a luxury purchase but following orders of my audiologist to protect my hearing always when flying. Previously, I had to remove hearing aids and insert foam ear-plugs,

[Elecraft] Transmitter performance

2013-12-20 Thread Edward R Cole
Normally I would not post this to the Elecraft Reflector, but since Dave brings it up, My wife and I are the North American representatives for Dubus Magazine (i.e. we process subscriptions for US, Canadian and Mexican hams, providing payment is in US funds. If you are interested in the

Re: [Elecraft] Can there be a delay before xmit after pressing the XMIT button on my K3?

2013-12-19 Thread Edward R Cole
Yes (but read more): I am using a Down East Microwave sequencer with my K3/10 (mainly on VHF with transverters but it will work for any band - keep reading). I use the INHIBIT command in the CONFIG menu to keep the K3 from transmitting until the sequencer says: OK. The sequencer goes thru

Re: [Elecraft] k3 macro command for Speaker or Phones?

2013-12-19 Thread Edward R Cole
Dave, I haven't tried it as a diversity receiver (as such) but have used it on 6m on a separate antenna while my K3 is on another 6m antenna. Allow me to receive in a different direction without rotating the main antenna. As far as use with good antennas the KX3 runs very close to my K3,

[Elecraft] OT: Crimping small wires

2013-12-11 Thread Edward R Cole
A little off topic: I wonder if any of you do what I do when using wires are too small for crimp connectors? I strip twice as much insulation from the end of the wire and then fold the bare wire over double. May have to squeeze using small nose pliers to get it doubled tight enough to fit

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Accuracy of clock

2013-12-03 Thread Edward R Cole
Not sure how all this commentary on computer time applies to the topic title. My KX3 keeps perfect time since I did not buy the battery charger...no clock! My $12 wrist watch has about 1 second/year accuracy. The K3 clock drifts over a week or so, but is easily corrected using the Utility

Re: [Elecraft] ... and solar power

2013-12-02 Thread Edward R Cole
This topic has been pretty thoroughly thrashed, but... I'd like to add a few comments. I installed and maintained solar-power communication sites for over 15 years. Open circuit voltage on a solar panel often will reach as high as 22 vdc (in direct sun). A panel loaded by a radio will drop

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Low Rider Stand

2013-11-29 Thread Edward R Cole
It is interesting to see the concepts that many have taken to supporting a KX3 (in the shack). Early on I made quick and dirty solution to installing my KX3 in the shack. I do not have the optional paddle, either, so I utilized the pre-tapped holes on that surface of the KX3 enclosure to

Re: [Elecraft] PC laptop for K3/KX3 digital modes

2013-11-20 Thread Edward R Cole
For desktop PC I have bought DELL for a decade using win200pro, XP and been very satisfied. I currently run a five year old duo-core 2.33 GHz, 3Mb memory, XP32 SP3 as my main computer for digital modes. If support is eventually dropped for XP that will only affect safe connection to

[Elecraft] K3: TRN5 failed

2013-11-19 Thread Edward R Cole
I was plagued by the K3 not transmitting in DATA-A mode on 1296 with a transverter. I had the KXV3 programmed for 1296 transverter with XV5 which should send a HI output on BAND0 when TRN5 is programmed. I first noticed I could transmit if I had 144 selected (XV1) which uses the same IF of

[Elecraft] K3 6m noise figure

2013-11-15 Thread Edward R Cole
This was discussed few couple months ago and it prompted me to make measurements on 6m 10m, for both K3 and KX3: Note the measurements were made at 2.8 KHz bandwidth whereas Elecraft specs are for 500-Hz bandwidth (correction factor is 7.5 dB lower for 500-Hz): I use an ARR preamp but specs

[Elecraft] Elecraft] FW: Proper installation of PL 259's

2013-11-13 Thread Edward R Cole
So far I've counted 96 posts on soldering connectors onto coax. Really? Dr. William J. Schmidt - K9HZ / J68HZ/ 8P6HK/ ZF2HZ --- Yep! What I have found is the three most asked technical questions by (beginning) hams are: 1) How do I program my HT? 2) How do you make

[Elecraft] Importance of good coaxial jumpers

2013-11-12 Thread Edward R Cole
Soldering PL-259 connectors: First use a good connector like Amphenol 83-ISP. Plating on cheap connectors the biggest obstacle to getting a good solder connection. I swear every time I have to use a RS PL-259 and vow never again. Preparation of RG-8 is different from RG-58 which uses a

Re: [Elecraft] OT: Checking coax jumpers before soldering

2013-11-12 Thread Edward R Cole
I have one of the MFJ Antenna Analyzers which can be used to test existing coax lines. SWR can certainly be tested, but its not intuitive how to measure line loss on cables connected to antennas. The standard method is with open coax runs (no load of any kind which ensures total reflection

Re: [Elecraft] Proper installation of PL 259's

2013-11-12 Thread Edward R Cole
If you think water proofing a PL 259 is hard at average ham heights of 30 to 80 feet try waterproofing a N connector on the end of 7/8 helix at 300 ft plus feet in the air. Good Luck all Bill,W0WFH? -- Bill, Yep! Been there. When possible, I pre-installed my top-end

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500/Kat500 Cables - PL-259 Question

2013-11-10 Thread Edward R Cole
In my professional work before I retired in 2009, I used N-connectors as much as possible. Some commercial VHF marine radios and the CB radios (required on our boats) had UHF connectors so I bought Amphenol PL-259's for them. I bought antennas that had N connectors. Sealing on boats I used

Re: [Elecraft] Spectrogram download site

2013-11-10 Thread Edward R Cole
I ran Norton Antivirus several years ago on win2000pro but switched to AVG on all but two of my computers. I have an old win95 laptop that never goes on-line and another backup computer which I run ESET antivirus. MalewareBytes is the only software that catches all the bad stuff. I run a

[Elecraft] [KX3] Re: KX3 2-meter module progress report

2013-10-16 Thread Edward R Cole
Wayne/Eric: I'm not trying to reply for David, but we have similar objectives for our KX3. Using 50-54 MHz as IF for the 2M module is genius in my thinking. 28-30 MHz too often used as IF for higher bands limits use to few frequencies. Having the full 2m band is very nice for multiple uses

Re: [Elecraft] SSB Net

2013-10-14 Thread Edward R Cole
I have been reluctant to check in the net with such poor propagation, but yesterday was super good hearing Phil S9+. I checked in with the K3+300w pa at first and then decided to try the KX3 barefoot and John, N6JW heard me with little effort it appeared. I just had a report of a M1-class

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 2-meter module progress report

2013-10-12 Thread Edward R Cole
For those of us using low noise preamps, they typically lower dynamic range, anyway. I recommend a preamp for working non-FM modes as one is not benefiting from repeaters in high places. The same goes for using the 2m module as IF for higher frequency transverters (i.e microwaves). I will

Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Digest, Vol 114, Issue 11

2013-10-08 Thread Edward R Cole
Another thing that states this is current ratings on switches (ever look at the specs?). Typical toggle switch may be rated 20A at 125vac and 10A at 250vac. Why? If the load resistance is the same then twice the voltage will double the current. Heat dissipation of the switch is the same

[Elecraft] KX3

2013-10-03 Thread Edward R Cole
David, Great that you have the KX3 enroute! Dealing with authorities and beauracy's always vexing, it seems. I recently experienced this with a company when ordering a replacement actuator for my dish. It cost $388 and $199 shipping. US Postal Priority Mail was only $80, but they had to

Re: [Elecraft] Random wires

2013-10-02 Thread Edward R Cole
I had to calculate my radiation resistance to comply with the license requirements on 600m. My antenna is a base loaded inverted-L: 43-feet high and 122-feet long*. Radiation resistance was taken from a EZ-NEC model as 0.83 ohms. Ground resistance was measured with an antenna analyzer as 18

Re: [Elecraft] Random wires

2013-10-02 Thread Edward R Cole
John, Thankyou for the correction in the formula. In fact the 18-ohms measured by the antenna analyzer is the total resistance and includes both radiation resistance and ground resistance, so my numbers are correct, just not my explanation of them. This was done three years ago and I

[Elecraft] Antenna suggestions, resent

2013-09-28 Thread Edward R Cole
Vic, Too bad you cannot consider a yagi for 20-10m. That would sit on a mast secured to the small roof-top building. So a 30x 10 foot space? I wonder if the 20x10 foot building extends beyond the 30x20 area? It it extends so total length is 50-feet You could put up a doublet across the

Re: [Elecraft] P3 Feature Request - Transmit sampling

2013-09-26 Thread Edward R Cole
This moving to OT but interesting to a long-term JT65 user like me. JT65 was designed for weak-signal communication, so the situations on HF where strong signals are received might be a problem. I would like to hear what Joe Taylor (K1JT) would say regarding this. I have not used JT9 or

Re: [Elecraft] P3 Feature Request - Transmit sampling

2013-09-24 Thread Edward R Cole
I don't have a P3, so my curiosity is only academic. The sampling function being referred to, would bring a low power sample of transmit power to the P3? This does not seem very difficult to roll your own sampler. I gather the P3 has the needed RF ckts to receive RF and demod it, or is

[Elecraft] [K3] One Last Hearing Story

2013-09-18 Thread Edward R Cole
Very interesting story! I recall Rick's R2 (I think it was called) which was an analog precursor to the SDR of today. I think the lesson is well put. To improve your abilities you have to train! That has to be done at or beyond the limits. So to hear better train yourself with weak signals.

Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net results, September 8

2013-09-13 Thread Edward R Cole
N7SP etal: If I may make a suggestion that might make KX3 checkin easier. On other nets that I often check into, the first stations invited to checkin are portable, mobile, and low power stations. That gives those stations a better chance of avoiding being covered up by stronger stations.

Re: [Elecraft] [600MRG] Use of K3 on 600m (and below)

2013-09-12 Thread Edward R Cole
Correct. Refer to the K3 manual, page 56, KXV3: If KXV3 is set to TEST, the K3 will use low power (0.1 to1.50 mw) on all bands, including hte HF and transverter bands. RF input/output is via teh XVTR IN/OUT jacks in this case. To access the TEST setting, KXV3 must first be set to NOR,

Re: [Elecraft] [OT} Wireless chargers (or transmission of electrical energy by wireless methods.)

2013-09-12 Thread Edward R Cole
Probably unknown or forgotten was the NASA project to beam solar power from orbit to earth! Yes, that was a real project (because I worked on it). This was about 1972. Experiments were made using the experimental station (DSS-13) at Goldstone Tracking Facility in the Mojave Desert. I am

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