I am copying a reply I made on the 600m e-mail reflector as I think it may answer some questions how the K3 is used down below 500-KHz:
--------------------------------
To: Jim Miller <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: [600MRG] [Elecraft] Upgraded K3 synthesizer module now available: The KSYN3A

Jim,

The K3 operates all modes in TEST: CW/SSB/AM/FM/DATA/RTTY/packet/psk-msk, etc. I can run psk-31, JT65, WSPR using DATA-A. Any soundcard sw runs normally with the K3. TEST mode essentially is placing the K3 into transverter mode with inputs/outputs available at the transverter connectors or Rx ANT. It uses the general coverage filter to operate outside normal ham bands.

Not sure what you mean by external mixing.

You just PRESS-HOLD the MODE down button to get into TEST and operate the K3 normally. It just lowers in power to mw and routes thru the transverter interface module KXV3. Look on page 75 at the K3 block diagram at the upper right corner which shows the KXV3. Right below is shows the BP filters and the 10w PA/Driver and final are bypassed to the KXV3. That is all the TEST mode does.

The new SYNTH board allows operation lower in frequency. The gen coverage BP filter KBPF3 nominally covers 500-KHz to 30 MHz. Performance drops off above 30 though the radio will tune to 32 MHz in the transverter mode. I assume there is no change in the KBPF3 so it will also drop off below 500-KHz but apparently not significantly until below 450-KHz.

This is a BIG WIN for Elecraft to enter the 600m Ham Band when it gets approved. They can already sell to countries that have created the 600m ham band.

And I have no motivation to build a transverter for 600m, now. The prototype pc boards would run costs up to at least $400 for the initial transverter. Instead I get two new synth boards and install them in less than 30-min. The bonus is the lowered phase noise for weak-signal work.

Those Elecraft guys are pretty crafty-smart.

73, Ed

At 08:47 AM 2/13/2015, Jim Miller wrote:
What modes are available if using Test? Does Test at least provide CW keyed out?

Seems like sound card modes like JT65 or WSPR would still require external mixing before the amp.

73

Jim ab3cv


73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
    "Kits made by KL7UW"
Dubus Mag business:
    [email protected]

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