I have the 6600 flex and the new K4. I prefer the K4. > On Mar 7, 2022, at 1:22 PM, [email protected] wrote: > > Send Elecraft mailing list submissions to > [email protected] > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > [email protected] > > You can reach the person managing the list at > [email protected] > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of Elecraft digest..." > > > Today's Topics: > > 1. Re: Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 (Kurt Pawlikowski) > 2. Re: Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 (Kurt Pawlikowski) > 3. Elecraft CW Net Announcement (kevin) > 4. Re: Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 (Kurt Pawlikowski) > 5. Re: SM$ command (Stefan Jansen) > 6. Re: Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 (Kurt Pawlikowski) > 7. Mar 6th, 40 meter SSB net 7280, 1900Z (Steve Hall) > 8. Re: Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 (Kurt Pawlikowski) > 9. Fair price for a KPA-1500 ([email protected]) > 10. Elecraft CW Net Report (kevin) > 11. Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC (Bernie and Cheryl) > 12. Re: Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC (Jim Brown) > 13. question on KXPD2 (James Cizek) > 14. Re: Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC (Bernie and Cheryl) > 15. Re: Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC (David Olean) > 16. Re: Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 (jerry) > 17. Re: Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 (Kurt Pawlikowski) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Sat, 5 Mar 2022 18:26:01 -0600 > From: Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Rich, Et Al, > > ??? Thanks for the comments. > > ??? Yes, I'm aware that this might bring up some sort of issues people > have with the manufactures or personal experience. My own is that when I > was ordering the radio, I could afford the 6400. But what I was hoping > for, maybe in vain, is some information about how the rigs perform > comparatively. I know that either of them are far-and-away better > receivers than anything else on the amateur market. > > ??? I my situation, I'm up against a lot of noise (live in a condo). > The Flex seems to mitigate some of that. I was hoping that the K4 would > be at least comparable. > > ??? CW delay: Well, I wired my key and headphones directly to the Flex. > My control PC would be way too slow to operate CW through it. > > ??? Well, I'm not sure which way to go at this time. I like the Flex, > but I'm "in-love" with Elecraft! Just wish I had a more experiential > based opinion to consider! > > ??? Thanks all for your comments! I'll keep my eye on this thread... > > ??? k WB9FMC > > >> On 3/5/22 11:58, Rich Lim wrote: >> Hi Kurt, I figured I would reply to you directly as this topic is >> controversial and may get?some people?s?undies in a bunch!. I have a >> flex 6480 and entire stable?of Elecraft rigs from K-1 all the way to >> K3. My K4 is on order and hopefully will be here by the summer. ?In my >> estimation, the flex 6400 is a great radio no doubt about it, receiver >> is?excellent and as a plus I can work FT8 remotely from work! >> >> The only thing I have bad to say about the flex?is that being a CW OP, >> there is a big delay between keying the rig and transmit such that it >> throws me off dramatically in my sending. I?ve resorted to using an >> external keyer otherwise I really can?t work CW aiding the?radio >> keyer. Furthermore, it may or may not be a downside to you, but?using >> a computer to control all the rig functions to me is less than ideal. >> ?I like knobs and a spinning VFO?wheel, sure the flex has Maestro but >> who knows when and if that we?ll ever be released. >> >> As far as performance, there is nothing that I could hear on the flex >> that I cannot hear on the K3. I?m contest situations, I think the K >> line has an advantage since you can add crystal filters in the >> superhet?stage and prevent receiver overload from nearby stations. >> This would be most important if you are a CW or RTTY operator. >> >> You may want to consider taking a listen to the latest Ham Radio >> Workbench Podcast. Rob Sherwood talks about his receiver list?and >> specifically mentions the flex series of radios and Elecraft rigs. >> Bottom line is any of the top 20 radios on his list will work >> fantastic, only if you?re a heavy contester will you notice a difference. >> >> I also has a Yaesu in FTDX 10 and while that radio has a great >> receiver in great DSP, the?ergonomics are not great and CW is tedious >> as you cannot run for QSK. I think the bottom line is what you?re most >> comfortable with in terms of ?their ergonomics is going to be the most >> important factor unless you are a big time contest operator. >> >> Finally, I?m happy to support both of these companies as they?are the >> only two remaining large American ham radio companies. If either go >> down the tube, who is going to push the big three to continue to >> innovate?. I hope this helps you a little bit, and if you wish to >> discuss it further more than happy to do so and feel free to email me >> directly. Take care! >> Rich >> KQ9L >> Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone >> <https://overview.mail.yahoo.com/?.src=iOS> >> >> On Saturday, March 5, 2022, 12:15 AM, Kurt Pawlikowski >> <[email protected]> wrote: >> >> Hi! >> >> ??? I was wondering whether there is anyone who has done a >> side-by-side >> comparison between the K4 and the Flex 6400 or any other Flex >> "direct to >> digital" radio? >> >> ??? Background: As it happens, I purchased a 6400, which I received >> about 9 months ago. I use it with a computer, but I had ordered a >> Maestro when I ordered the 6400. Unfortunately, the Maestro is >> still on >> back-order and will be until some time next year. When I checked with >> Elecraft, they said the delay time for a K4 was about 6 months (no, I >> won't hold them to that!). So, I'm wondering if it would be worth >> jumping to the K4. Mind you, I'm not unhappy with the Flex and, >> when I >> ordered it I had considered a K4, but it was outside my budget at >> that >> time. I'm rethinking that decision. Also, I've been an Elecraft >> fan for >> quite some time. At any rate, I'd like some opinions from >> experience and >> the only ones I have seen were written before the K4 was >> available. So, >> a little help would be appreciated! Thanks! >> >> ??? k WB9FMC >> >> ______________________________________________________________ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >> Post: mailto:[email protected] >> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >> Message delivered to [email protected] >> > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 2 > Date: Sat, 5 Mar 2022 21:42:35 -0600 > From: Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Scott, > > ??? Well, yes: The "numbers" say one thing (or several things!), but, > like I said, I'm in love with Elecraft... So, yes, I'm prejudiced! Of > course the "top radio (FT-DX101D)" is somewhat more expensive then the > 6400, and does seem to have some nice whistles and bells. Who knows? > Maybe I'll do a switch to Yaesu... {'-) > > ??? k WB9FMC > >> On 3/5/22 18:46, Scott Manthe wrote: >> Actually, the Yaesu FTDX101D/MP has the best receiver numbers on >> Sherwood's list. That doesn't mean that it's the best radio for you, >> but the Flex and the K4 aren't "far and away" better receivers than >> anything else in the amateur market. Ironically, Rob seems to really >> like Icoms... >> >> 73, >> Scott N9AA >> >> >> >>> On 3/5/22 7:26 PM, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote: >>> Rich, Et Al, >>> >>> ??? Thanks for the comments. >>> >>> ??? Yes, I'm aware that this might bring up some sort of issues >>> people have with the manufactures or personal experience. My own is >>> that when I was ordering the radio, I could afford the 6400. But what >>> I was hoping for, maybe in vain, is some information about how the >>> rigs perform comparatively. I know that either of them are >>> far-and-away better receivers than anything else on the amateur market. >>> >>> ??? I my situation, I'm up against a lot of noise (live in a condo). >>> The Flex seems to mitigate some of that. I was hoping that the K4 >>> would be at least comparable. >>> >>> ??? CW delay: Well, I wired my key and headphones directly to the >>> Flex. My control PC would be way too slow to operate CW through it. >>> >>> ??? Well, I'm not sure which way to go at this time. I like the Flex, >>> but I'm "in-love" with Elecraft! Just wish I had a more experiential >>> based opinion to consider! >>> >>> ??? Thanks all for your comments! I'll keep my eye on this thread... >>> >>> ??? k WB9FMC >>> >>> >> > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 3 > Date: Sat, 5 Mar 2022 22:23:05 -0800 > From: kevin <[email protected]> > To: Elecraft Reflector <[email protected]> > Subject: [Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Announcement > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Good Evening, > > ?? After a rainy week today's sun felt good.? Buds are starting to > expand.? Daffodils are about four inches tall, just in time for the next > snow storm due late in the week.? There was one day of fog and snow.? It > was like a Turner painting in shades of gray. > > ?? The sun is active.? We are in the middle of an ion stream. Signals > are OK but noise is high.? The stream should still be present tomorrow.? > The ionosphere is charged up.? I expect signals to bounce well with > moderate to heavier QSB.? Forty meters could get noisy as the sun sets. > > > Please join us on (or near): > > 14050 kHz at 2300z Sunday? (3 PM PST Sunday) > ?7047 kHz at 0030z Monday? (4:30 PM PST Sunday) > > ?? 73, > ????? Kevin. KD5ONS > > > > > - > > > I wanted to see what happens when you feed a sine wave into a doublet.? > This code snippet inserts the signal at the center feed point and walks > it outward at each time step.? When the signal hits the end of the wire > it bounces back, adding its level to the incoming level. > > I used degrees to measure the length of the antenna.? One half of a wave > is 180 degrees long (pi).? A half wave dipole has two legs each 1/4 > wavelength long or 90 degrees.? When each leg is 90 or 180 degrees long > the antenna behaves as expected at resonance. Shorter or longer legs > display their odd behaviors.? Some day I will add a user interface which > does not require me to recompile the code. > > > static int step = 1; > int s = 0;??? ??? // sine[] index > bool flag = false;?? // speed flag > > DWORD WINAPI wave( LPVOID pV )??? ??? ??? // working function > ?? ?{ > ?? ?int k; > ?? ?RECT rct; > ?? ?int xS, yS;??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? // screen coordinates > ??? int dx = 1; > ?? ?int centerLine = HEIGHT/2; > > ?? ?while(TRUE)??? ??? ??? ????????????????? // City on the edge of forever > ?? ???? { > ?? ???? if (flag) > ?? ???? ??? { > ?? ???? ??? SleepEx( 3, FALSE );??? ??? ??? ??? // Passing the time, > drinking good wine > ?? ???? ??? } > ?? ???? else > ?? ???? ??? { > ?? ???? ??? SleepEx( 40, FALSE );??? ??? ?? // Scalosians slow to human > speeds > ?? ???? ??? } > > ?? ???? hdc = GetDC(hwnd); > ?? ???? SelectObject(bkhdc, bkBitmap);??? // create cool background gray > ?? ???? GetClientRect(hwnd, &rct); > ?? ???? FillRect(bkhdc, &rct, cBrush);??? // paint background > > ?? ???? // shift each element[] value up/out the antenna > ?? ???? shift(); > > ?? ???? //??? at each time step fill the feed point from the sine[] buffer > ?? ???? element[0] = sine[s]; > > ?? ???? // step through sine[] > ?? ???? s += step; > ?? ???? if (s > 359) > ?? ???? ??? { > ?? ???? ??? s = 0; > ?? ???? ??? flag = true;??? // sleep less > ?? ???? ??? } > > ?? ???? // sum outgoing element with incoming element > ?? ???? sum(); > > ?? ???? // fill display on both legs > ?? ???? for (int e=0; e<LENGTH; e++) > ?? ???? ??? { > ?? ???? ??? // mirror right leg into left leg > ?? ???? ??? display[LENGTH - e - 1] = elem[e]; > ?? ???? ??? display[e + LENGTH ] = elem[e]; > ?? ???? ??? } > > ?? ???? for (int i=0; i<LENGTH; i++) > ?? ???? ??? { > ?? ???? ??? k = 255 + (int) (0.6 * display[i].level);? // determine > color index > ?? ???? ??? SelectObject(bkhdc, pn[k].pen );? // choose appropriate pen > > ?? ???? ??? xS = Xtransform(0, WINDOWX, 10, WIDTH/2, i * dx + 50 ); > ?? ???? ??? yS = Ytransform(WINDOWY, 0, 10, HEIGHT, display[i].level + > centerLine); > ?? ???? ??? MoveToEx(bkhdc, xS, yS, NULL); > ?? ???? ??? MoveToEx(hdc, xS, yS, NULL); > > ?? ???? ??? xS = Xtransform(0, WINDOWX, 10, WIDTH/2, i * dx + 50 ); > ?? ???? ??? yS = Ytransform(WINDOWY, 0, 10, HEIGHT, centerLine ); > ?? ???? ??? LineTo(bkhdc, xS, yS); > ?? ???? ??? LineTo(hdc, xS, yS); > ?? ???? ??? } > > ?? ???? for (int i=LENGTH; i<2*LENGTH; i++)??? ??? // right leg > ?? ???? ??? { > ?? ???? ??? k = 255 + (int) (0.6 * display[i].level); > ?? ???? ??? SelectObject(bkhdc, pn[k].pen ); > > ?? ???? ??? xS = Xtransform(0, WINDOWX, 10, WIDTH/2, i * dx + 55 ); > ?? ???? ??? yS = Ytransform(WINDOWY, 0, 10, HEIGHT, display[i].level + > centerLine? ); > ?? ???? ??? MoveToEx(bkhdc, xS, yS, NULL); > ?? ???? ??? MoveToEx(hdc, xS, yS, NULL); > > ?? ???? ??? xS = Xtransform(0, WINDOWX, 10, WIDTH/2, i * dx + 55); > ?? ???? ??? yS = Ytransform(WINDOWY, 0, 10, HEIGHT, centerLine ); > ?? ???? ??? LineTo(bkhdc, xS, yS); > ?? ???? ??? LineTo(hdc, xS, yS); > ?? ???? ??? } > > //??? ??? SelectObject(bkhdc, GetStockObject(BLACK_PEN)); > ?? ???? ReleaseDC(hwnd, hdc); > ?? ???? InvalidateRect(hwnd, NULL, TRUE);??? ??? // force WM_PAINT > ?? ???? } > ?? ?ExitProcess( 0 ); > ?? return 0; > ?? } > > > I will post the files, make file, and an exe on my web site.? It is fun > to see what happens with non-resonant lengths. > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 4 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 08:14:26 -0600 > From: Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Dave, > > ??? Very interesting and useful experiential info! It's much appreciated. > > ??? k WB9FMC > >> On 3/6/22 06:45, David Bunte wrote: >> Kurt - >> >> I am sending this just to you because I don't want to get into the >> middle of a battle over which radio is the best. We are fortunate that >> there are a LOT of very fine radios from which we can choose. Clearly >> only you can decide which radio is best for you. I am writing because >> a very good friend of mine has owned some of the finest. He currently >> has an IC-7851, which replaced the '7850 he used for many years. He >> bought an Elecraft K3 when they were first introduced. He had that set >> up next to his '7850 and alternated between them. He thought they were >> both excellent radios, but preferred the Icom... because the audio >> sounded better on receive. He and I are both CW operators so when >> evaluating rigs phone performance does not matter to us at all... but >> I preferred his K3 because I use QSK, which was flawless with the K3. >> About 11 years ago he loaned me his K3/P3 combination when I installed >> an antenna at my new house. I had been operating mobile for 5 years >> and finally could operate from the comfort of my own shack. I liked >> the k3 so much that at Dayton in 2011 I was made the first purchase of >> the weekend when I bought my K3 in kit form. >> >> I am still using that radio today. I have made several upgrades and >> have NEVER second-guessed my decision. I now also have the KPA500 and >> KAT500. >> >> Now, to the heart of my email. My friend bought an FTDX101MP (I think >> that is the nomenclature) and put it next to his '7851. He used one >> for a week, and then the other for a week... he alternated like that >> for months. He was very impressed with the radio in many regards... >> but stopped using it because in a few small ways he felt it did not >> measure up to the Icom. The thing I most clearly remember him not >> liking was the noisy relays when operating semi-breakin on CW. I >> played with the radio for just a little bit and could not stand the >> relay noise. The relays in the '7851 don't bother him at all. Because >> I use full QSK I could not stand the Yeasu?and felt the Icom was only >> a little better. Also... I lived just under 4 miles from him. When he >> was on the air I could glance at my P3 and knew which radio he was >> using because the CW waveform?was wider on the Yaesu... it was pretty >> good but the Icom was clearly better. When he was using his Icom we >> could be chewing the rag 2 kHz from each other and not even notice >> that the other was on the band. When he used the Yaesu I had to be at >> least 4 or 5 kHz away. >> >> I have recently moved to a new QTH and am now just under 1.5 miles >> from him. We had a rag chew last Monday on 40 meters. We exchanged 40 >> db over S9 reports, but at 2 kHz away from his new K4D I could have >> had a QSO... although I am pretty sure I could hear slight evidence of >> when he was transmitting. >> >> I have no idea if any of my meanderings are helpful or not, but for >> me... a CW operator who loves QSK, I have a hard time considering >> anything other than Elecraft. >> >> I wish you the very best as you consider what to do in the future. >> >> 73 de Dave - K9FN >> >> >> On Sat, Mar 5, 2022 at 10:45 PM Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> wrote: >> >> Scott, >> >> ???? Well, yes: The "numbers" say one thing (or several things!), >> but, >> like I said, I'm in love with Elecraft... So, yes, I'm prejudiced! Of >> course the "top radio (FT-DX101D)" is somewhat more expensive then >> the >> 6400, and does seem to have some nice whistles and bells. Who knows? >> Maybe I'll do a switch to Yaesu... {'-) >> >> ???? k WB9FMC >> >>> On 3/5/22 18:46, Scott Manthe wrote: >>> Actually, the Yaesu FTDX101D/MP has the best receiver numbers on >>> Sherwood's list. That doesn't mean that it's the best radio for >> you, >>> but the Flex and the K4 aren't "far and away" better receivers than >>> anything else in the amateur market. Ironically, Rob seems to >> really >>> like Icoms... >>> >>> 73, >>> Scott N9AA >>> >>> >>> >>> On 3/5/22 7:26 PM, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote: >>>> Rich, Et Al, >>>> >>>> ??? Thanks for the comments. >>>> >>>> ??? Yes, I'm aware that this might bring up some sort of issues >>>> people have with the manufactures or personal experience. My >> own is >>>> that when I was ordering the radio, I could afford the 6400. >> But what >>>> I was hoping for, maybe in vain, is some information about how the >>>> rigs perform comparatively. I know that either of them are >>>> far-and-away better receivers than anything else on the amateur >> market. >>>> >>>> ??? I my situation, I'm up against a lot of noise (live in a >> condo). >>>> The Flex seems to mitigate some of that. I was hoping that the K4 >>>> would be at least comparable. >>>> >>>> ??? CW delay: Well, I wired my key and headphones directly to the >>>> Flex. My control PC would be way too slow to operate CW through it. >>>> >>>> ??? Well, I'm not sure which way to go at this time. I like the >> Flex, >>>> but I'm "in-love" with Elecraft! Just wish I had a more >> experiential >>>> based opinion to consider! >>>> >>>> ??? Thanks all for your comments! I'll keep my eye on this >> thread... >>>> >>>> ??? k WB9FMC >>>> >>>> >>> >> ______________________________________________________________ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >> Post: mailto:[email protected] >> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >> Message delivered to [email protected] >> > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 5 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 21:28:28 +0100 > From: Stefan Jansen <[email protected]> > To: Elecraft Mailinglist <[email protected]> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SM$ command > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 > > Hi all, > > Thank you for your detailed answers about the S-Meter on the KX2. With that > info I can now implement my whitesticker-friendly S-Mmeter for the KX2. > > > > > Vy 73 de Stefan, DK7STJ > > -- > Stefan Jansen *** E-Mail: [email protected] > >> Am 02.03.2022 um 00:15 schrieb Jack Brindle <[email protected]>: >> >> Stefan; >> >> The KX2, like the KX3 and K3, have S-Meters with 21 bars. These go from S1 >> (with just one bar showing) to S9 (9 bars) it then has 12 more bars >> corresponding to S9 + 5 times the number of extra bars showing. So, if you >> have an S9+20db signal, there will be a total of 13 bars showing. If you use >> the K31 setting (set k3 to 1 with the K31; command) the response to the SM >> command will correspond directly to the number of bars showing, from 0 to >> 21. Note that the first bar above S9 represents S9 + 5db. >> >> Without the K3 setting (K30;), that range is cut down to 0 - 15, which is >> closer to the K2 S-Meter, which has only 10 bars. On the K2, S9 has 6 bars. >> Above S9 the range goes from S9 to S9 + 40 in 4 bars. In the SM command >> this is changed to go from S9 (at 6 bars) to S9 + 60 (15 bars). The bars >> above S9 represent 6.66 db, so S9 + 6.66db would be 7 bars, S9 + 20 is 9 >> bars, and so forth linearly up to S9 + 60 at 15 bars. >> >> I hope this helps. Using the K31; option really helps here, the S-Meter >> makes more sense, although having a computer translate for you helps a lot. >> >> 73, >> Jack, W6FB >> >> >>>> On Mar 1, 2022, at 2:38 PM, Stefan Jansen <[email protected]> wrote: >>> >>> Hi Andy, >>> >>> Yes, I should have been more precise in asking my question. OK, thanks to >>> your answer I know now that the SM$ command might report exactly the number >>> of dots that are displayed on the KX2 for the S-Meter. But as I am a white >>> sticker, I cannot read that display and do not know to which S-meter values >>> the dots correspond unless it is written in the programmer?s reference. And >>> there they only tell the values for 6, 9, 12, and 15, but not for the other >>> values. >>> >>> So if anybody can help, I would be glad. >>> >>> >>> Vy 73 de Stefan, DK7STJ >>> >>> -- >>> Stefan Jansen *** E-Mail: [email protected] >>> >>>> Am 28.02.2022 um 18:43 schrieb Andy Durbin <[email protected]>: >>>> >>>> Don't have a KX2 but Kenwood meter interrogations return the result as >>>> "dots" corresponding to the number of dots that are "lit" on the LCD meter >>>> scale. >>>> >>>> If the KX2 uses an LCD meter it's likely the same. >>>> >>>> Andy, k3wyc >>>> ______________________________________________________________ >>>> Elecraft mailing list >>>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >>>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >>>> Post: mailto:[email protected] >>>> >>>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >>>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >>>> Message delivered to [email protected] >>>> >>> >>> ______________________________________________________________ >>> Elecraft mailing list >>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >>> Post: mailto:[email protected] >>> >>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >>> Message delivered to [email protected] >> > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 6 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 14:43:46 -0600 > From: Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Dave, > > ??? Sorry, my QRZ page is really dated! I'll have to take some time an > update it! Currently, I'm in an antenna restricted situation (condo) and > my antenna is a MFJ loop that I wheel out into the parking lot in order > to operate. > > ??? As far as the radio goes, it seems to work very respectfully. Makes > me wish I had that vertical! But currently, my biggest problem is noise. > This radio does seem to mitigate that to some degree. Of course, getting > DXCC or any other award does require you spend much more time on the air > than I currently do! {'-) > > ??? k WB9FMC > >> On 3/6/22 08:49, David Bunte wrote: >> Kurt - >> >> If I may add a little more information? my friend with the ?7851 and >> the K4D is the only person I have told until now? but I recently >> ordered a K4D. >> >> Another friend near me has been using a Flex (6600 or 6400 I don?t >> recall) and it has been driving him nuts? rebooting in the middle of >> contests etc. he just picked up an Icom 7610 from another friend who >> got a K4D. >> >> I also noted on your QRZ page that you have a vertical antenna. Some >> folks knock them but on less than 10 years using one I confirmed 9 >> band DXCC, 308 countries and about 1900 toward DXCC Challenge. >> >> Dave - K9FN >> >> On Sun, Mar 6, 2022 at 9:17 AM Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> wrote: >> >> Dave, >> >> ???? Very interesting and useful experiential info! It's much >> appreciated. >> >> ???? k WB9FMC >> >>> On 3/6/22 06:45, David Bunte wrote: >>> Kurt - >>> >>> I am sending this just to you because I don't want to get into the >>> middle of a battle over which radio is the best. We are >> fortunate that >>> there are a LOT of very fine radios from which we can choose. >> Clearly >>> only you can decide which radio is best for you. I am writing >> because >>> a very good friend of mine has owned some of the finest. He >> currently >>> has an IC-7851, which replaced the '7850 he used for many years. He >>> bought an Elecraft K3 when they were first introduced. He had >> that set >>> up next to his '7850 and alternated between them. He thought >> they were >>> both excellent radios, but preferred the Icom... because the audio >>> sounded better on receive. He and I are both CW operators so when >>> evaluating rigs phone performance does not matter to us at >> all... but >>> I preferred his K3 because I use QSK, which was flawless with >> the K3. >>> About 11 years ago he loaned me his K3/P3 combination when I >> installed >>> an antenna at my new house. I had been operating mobile for 5 years >>> and finally could operate from the comfort of my own shack. I liked >>> the k3 so much that at Dayton in 2011 I was made the first >> purchase of >>> the weekend when I bought my K3 in kit form. >>> >>> I am still using that radio today. I have made several upgrades and >>> have NEVER second-guessed my decision. I now also have the >> KPA500 and >>> KAT500. >>> >>> Now, to the heart of my email. My friend bought an FTDX101MP (I >> think >>> that is the nomenclature) and put it next to his '7851. He used one >>> for a week, and then the other for a week... he alternated like >> that >>> for months. He was very impressed with the radio in many regards... >>> but stopped using it because in a few small ways he felt it did not >>> measure up to the Icom. The thing I most clearly remember him not >>> liking was the noisy relays when operating semi-breakin on CW. I >>> played with the radio for just a little bit and could not stand the >>> relay noise. The relays in the '7851 don't bother him at all. >> Because >>> I use full QSK I could not stand the Yeasu?and felt the Icom was >> only >>> a little better. Also... I lived just under 4 miles from him. >> When he >>> was on the air I could glance at my P3 and knew which radio he was >>> using because the CW waveform?was wider on the Yaesu... it was >> pretty >>> good but the Icom was clearly better. When he was using his Icom we >>> could be chewing the rag 2 kHz from each other and not even notice >>> that the other was on the band. When he used the Yaesu I had to >> be at >>> least 4 or 5 kHz away. >>> >>> I have recently moved to a new QTH and am now just under 1.5 miles >>> from him. We had a rag chew last Monday on 40 meters. We >> exchanged 40 >>> db over S9 reports, but at 2 kHz away from his new K4D I could have >>> had a QSO... although I am pretty sure I could hear slight >> evidence of >>> when he was transmitting. >>> >>> I have no idea if any of my meanderings are helpful or not, but for >>> me... a CW operator who loves QSK, I have a hard time considering >>> anything other than Elecraft. >>> >>> I wish you the very best as you consider what to do in the future. >>> >>> 73 de Dave - K9FN >>> >>> >>> On Sat, Mar 5, 2022 at 10:45 PM Kurt Pawlikowski >> <[email protected]> wrote: >>> >>> ? ? ?Scott, >>> >>> ? ? ????? Well, yes: The "numbers" say one thing (or several >> things!), >>> ? ? ?but, >>> ? ? ?like I said, I'm in love with Elecraft... So, yes, I'm >> prejudiced! Of >>> ? ? ?course the "top radio (FT-DX101D)" is somewhat more >> expensive then >>> ? ? ?the >>> ? ? ?6400, and does seem to have some nice whistles and bells. >> Who knows? >>> ? ? ?Maybe I'll do a switch to Yaesu... {'-) >>> >>> ? ? ????? k WB9FMC >>> >>> ? ? ?On 3/5/22 18:46, Scott Manthe wrote: >>> ? ? ?> Actually, the Yaesu FTDX101D/MP has the best receiver >> numbers on >>> ? ? ?> Sherwood's list. That doesn't mean that it's the best >> radio for >>> ? ? ?you, >>> ? ? ?> but the Flex and the K4 aren't "far and away" better >> receivers than >>> ? ? ?> anything else in the amateur market. Ironically, Rob seems to >>> ? ? ?really >>> ? ? ?> like Icoms... >>> ? ? ?> >>> ? ? ?> 73, >>> ? ? ?> Scott N9AA >>> ? ? ?> >>> ? ? ?> >>> ? ? ?> >>> ? ? ?> On 3/5/22 7:26 PM, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote: >>> ? ? ?>> Rich, Et Al, >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> ??? Thanks for the comments. >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> ??? Yes, I'm aware that this might bring up some sort of >> issues >>> ? ? ?>> people have with the manufactures or personal experience. My >>> ? ? ?own is >>> ? ? ?>> that when I was ordering the radio, I could afford the 6400. >>> ? ? ?But what >>> ? ? ?>> I was hoping for, maybe in vain, is some information >> about how the >>> ? ? ?>> rigs perform comparatively. I know that either of them are >>> ? ? ?>> far-and-away better receivers than anything else on the >> amateur >>> ? ? ?market. >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> ??? I my situation, I'm up against a lot of noise (live in a >>> ? ? ?condo). >>> ? ? ?>> The Flex seems to mitigate some of that. I was hoping >> that the K4 >>> ? ? ?>> would be at least comparable. >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> ??? CW delay: Well, I wired my key and headphones >> directly to the >>> ? ? ?>> Flex. My control PC would be way too slow to operate CW >> through it. >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> ??? Well, I'm not sure which way to go at this time. I >> like the >>> ? ? ?Flex, >>> ? ? ?>> but I'm "in-love" with Elecraft! Just wish I had a more >>> ? ? ?experiential >>> ? ? ?>> based opinion to consider! >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> ??? Thanks all for your comments! I'll keep my eye on this >>> ? ? ?thread... >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> ??? k WB9FMC >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?>> >>> ? ? ?> >>> ?______________________________________________________________ >>> ? ? ?Elecraft mailing list >>> ? ? ?Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >>> ? ? ?Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >>> ? ? ?Post: mailto:[email protected] >>> >>> ? ? ?This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >>> ? ? ?Please help support this email list: >> http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >>> ? ? ?Message delivered to [email protected] >>> >> ______________________________________________________________ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >> Post: mailto:[email protected] >> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >> Message delivered to [email protected] >> > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 7 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 15:49:28 -0500 > From: Steve Hall <[email protected]> > To: [email protected] > Subject: [Elecraft] Mar 6th, 40 meter SSB net 7280, 1900Z > Message-ID: > <CALdUqNPnXnEYFdvZe8r=pkfmr2cmiwc2cemezmg31izzqw7...@mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" > > Thanks to all my relay stations and check-ins. > > WM6P STEVE GA K4D #436 Net control > W3SA JOHN NC K4D #616 > K8NU CARL OH FTDX101D > WB9JNZ ERIC IL K3 > AC8UC RAY OH K4 #519 > WY3T TIM FL K3S > AE6JV BILL NH K3 > K1NW BRIAN RI K3 > N2GAH BILL NC IC736 > N9PTU BUD IL FT990 > N8SBE DAVE MI K3S > W5COG SCOTT OK K3 > KD4PBJ CHRIS TN KX3 15WATTS > KD8DCR NICK OH FT991A > AB0R DAVE MN TS890 > > > *Fighting Communists since 1968. * > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 8 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 14:54:40 -0600 > From: Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Morgan, > > ??? Wow! That's a LOT of very useful information. While my situation > doesn't include an amp, I like your comment about not being able to > "kill" the Mercury III's. I'll keep that in mind. > > ??? Well, thank you (and everyone else!) for these responses! Now I > have some thinking to do and a decision to make. If the FTDX-101D really > can help with my particular noise, that would be great... I'll have to > really think about that! It means I'd have to sell the Flex (I'm already > in the process of selling my vintage Drake equipment). We'll see! > > ??? Thanks again! > > ??? k WB9FMC > >> On 3/6/22 09:31, Morgan Bailey wrote: >> For me it is all about the RX. What really stands out with the FTDX101 >> is the noise control that it offers. Each button on the rig actually >> does something. And, each something is significant. No other rig that >> I have operated has ever measured up to the 101. I really need that >> advantage of noise control because I live in a city on a city lot, >> with power lines?on 3 sides and 3 transformers easily visible from my >> back or front yard. I have electrical noise and that coupled with band >> noise presents quite a problem. The 101 Rx is hands down the best. It >> makes SSB sound like FM. It makes the bandpass quiet until an actual >> signal shows up in it. No roar or harsh static is heard.? Once I >> figured out how I want stuff to sound, I hardly touch the buttons or >> knobs during a contest, other than the RIT (Clarifier on Yaesu) and >> Width controls. I consider myself an average contester. I live on a >> city lot with 68 linear feet for antennas. I cover all frequencies >> from 160 to 2 meters. I can run SO2R with ease running 2 radios on any >> of the 2 coax feeds to the switch. Each radio can run 1kw loafing and >> still not interfere with the other...sans other than the direct exact >> multiple harmonic, even still, it is only S7 to S9. >> >> Yes I know everyone complains about the relays. I do not. I grew up >> with open frame relays that cerchunked like motor control stuff in an >> industrial shop. I wear headphones, W1 Inrad, and do not give a >> tinker's damned?for QSK. Running SO2R takes QSK off the board. I suck >> at SO2R. Even when I am SO1R, which is 99% of the time, I still choose >> semi breakin and I?relax not having?to listen to the static and noise >> in between?each character. Running 36 to 40 WPM pretty much negates >> QSK so why listen to the noise. Noise fatigue during a long contest >> will wear you out. I found that when I drove motorcycles, having loud >> pipes wore me down. I wore ear plugs all the time. Later I found that >> doing 1k miles a day an easy?task only after I got rid of the pipes >> and switched to a much quieter, meaning silent exhaust. This again >> carries over to my experience with radios. >> >> I love the 101 so much, that yes I have 2 of them for SO2R. But for >> Field day, I took one out and had to tear down the station to move the >> radio to Field Day. Well, yes it works well at Field Day but also so >> does an FTDX10. I believe the FTDX10 is the premier radio for Field >> Day conditions. I love it so much that I bought one just for Field >> Day. Again it is 95% of what the 101 is but mainly it does not have >> the VC tune which is a game changer. I feel that the DX10 will be >> utilized for many DXpedions?based on cost and receiver quality being >> able to be operated in an RF noisy environment with ease. >> >> In closing, I love my FTDX101MP, FTDX101D and FTDX10. Taking them out >> of the box, turning them on, having them work the first time, what a >> joy it is having a finished product that performs like a miracle >> solution for my situation. DVRs that work, are easily run by N1MM, >> Keying memories the same, excellent parametric equalizers for transmit >> Audio, some of the highest average power out on ssb that I have ever >> seen, a great pan display, noise control second to none, enough menu >> options that are PLAIN TEXT and easily understood without?having?to go >> to the manual to look up stuff to decode the led shorthand >> hieroglyphics---for me, Yaesu just hit it out of the park, >> especially?when the value for the dollar is considered, NO one, >> absolutely NO one has come remotely close. I make this conclusion >> based on my ears, and my operation ease after having tried, 6500, >> 6600, 6600M, 6700, K3S, 7610, 890, 590, 991, 830, Omni6 and many more >> over the years. I played for an hour or so with a 7851 but for the >> $$$$, it is not a value for me when the 101 blows it away for my >> station needs. >> >> As for Linear Amps that is a whole different ball of wax. I have had >> many over the years. I have given many the torture test and can tell >> you which ones work and I would trust. But today, if i were to advise >> you to buy an AMP, i would ask a simple question, do you want to run >> FT8? If you run FT8 and want to run power there are very few amps that >> will stand the test. The next question I would ask is do you want a >> tube amp or a transistor amp. Tube amps, at least some of them are far >> more rugged for the dollar. Transistor amps are all about cooling. If >> you can't?keep them cool they are toast. In the end you pay for what >> you get. So your choices are limited. If you want a great tube amp and >> are willing to pay the dollars for 1500 key down then, ACOM or OM >> Power are the choices. If you want a transistor then there is only one >> that is stellar and that is the PGXL. If you want a middle of the road >> amp that is easy on the pocket then KM3KM produces the Mercury IIIs >> which will do a solid KW on CW and 699 watts on FT8 and easily 1200 >> SSB. I own 2 of them and have not been able to kill them. They are >> simple and would fit in most any shack. NO they do not have all the >> bells and whistles that other higher dollar amps have but saying that, >> they have less to go wrong and cost far less. My choice for an amp for >> a modest station is either an ACOM 1000 or a Mercury IIIs. This is >> based on Dollar Per Watt and reliability. >> >> HP 2 CU on the air! >> >> 73, Tnx for the Qs >> Morgan NJ8M >> >> BS + MS + $2.98 = COFFEE >> Real Life Experience = Priceless, says the man who set his back yard >> on fire with a breadboard tuner loading a 160 meter inverted L with >> 1000 watts. LOL >> >> >> On Sat, Mar 5, 2022 at 9:49 PM Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> wrote: >> >> Scott, >> >> ???? Well, yes: The "numbers" say one thing (or several things!), >> but, >> like I said, I'm in love with Elecraft... So, yes, I'm prejudiced! Of >> course the "top radio (FT-DX101D)" is somewhat more expensive then >> the >> 6400, and does seem to have some nice whistles and bells. Who knows? >> Maybe I'll do a switch to Yaesu... {'-) >> >> ???? k WB9FMC >> >>> On 3/5/22 18:46, Scott Manthe wrote: >>> Actually, the Yaesu FTDX101D/MP has the best receiver numbers on >>> Sherwood's list. That doesn't mean that it's the best radio for >> you, >>> but the Flex and the K4 aren't "far and away" better receivers than >>> anything else in the amateur market. Ironically, Rob seems to >> really >>> like Icoms... >>> >>> 73, >>> Scott N9AA >>> >>> >>> >>> On 3/5/22 7:26 PM, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote: >>>> Rich, Et Al, >>>> >>>> ??? Thanks for the comments. >>>> >>>> ??? Yes, I'm aware that this might bring up some sort of issues >>>> people have with the manufactures or personal experience. My >> own is >>>> that when I was ordering the radio, I could afford the 6400. >> But what >>>> I was hoping for, maybe in vain, is some information about how the >>>> rigs perform comparatively. I know that either of them are >>>> far-and-away better receivers than anything else on the amateur >> market. >>>> >>>> ??? I my situation, I'm up against a lot of noise (live in a >> condo). >>>> The Flex seems to mitigate some of that. I was hoping that the K4 >>>> would be at least comparable. >>>> >>>> ??? CW delay: Well, I wired my key and headphones directly to the >>>> Flex. My control PC would be way too slow to operate CW through it. >>>> >>>> ??? Well, I'm not sure which way to go at this time. I like the >> Flex, >>>> but I'm "in-love" with Elecraft! Just wish I had a more >> experiential >>>> based opinion to consider! >>>> >>>> ??? Thanks all for your comments! I'll keep my eye on this >> thread... >>>> >>>> ??? k WB9FMC >>>> >>>> >>> >> ______________________________________________________________ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >> Post: mailto:[email protected] >> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >> Message delivered to [email protected] >> > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 9 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 15:13:45 -0700 > From: <[email protected]> > To: <[email protected]> > Subject: [Elecraft] Fair price for a KPA-1500 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > I will be closing my current operating QTH sometime in the next few months > and will be selling a KPA1500, among other things. Trying now to set a fair > price for it. If anyone who has recently bought or sold one would be > willing to share the price of their transaction, it would be very helpful. > Replies off-line, please, so I can preserve confidentiality: > [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> > > > > Tnx, > > > > Ted, KN1CBR > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 10 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 20:23:35 -0800 > From: kevin <[email protected]> > To: Elecraft Reflector <[email protected]> > Subject: [Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Report > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Good Evening, > > ?? Twenty meters was more quiet than I had expected.? Signals were > strong with mild to moderate QSB.? Forty meters had more noise with > weaker signals and stronger QSB.? Everyone on twenty meters mentioned > the weather.? For some it was cold, for others it was windy.? For Roy it > was very, very windy but he was fortunate when winter tornadoes missed > to his south. > > > ? On 14050.5 kHz at 2300z: > > NO8V - John - MI > > W0CZ - Ken - ND > > K6XK - Roy - IA > > K4JPN - Steve - GA > > AB9V - Mike - IN > > > ? On 7047.5 kHz at 0030z: > > W0CZ - Ken - ND > > K0DTJ - Brian - CA > > K6PJV - Dale - CA > > WM5F - Dwight - ID > > > ?? My forecast is for a few sunny days then snow and rain. Hopefully I > can get more of my vertical assembled.? Some of the radials have been > moved.? Elk have been moving through so maybe they tangled with it.? > Luckily, THHN is slippery so they should not get caught in it.? A few > well placed limbs will keep them out of the way. > > ?? Until next week 73, > > ????? Kevin.? KD5ONS > > > - > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 11 > Date: Sun, 6 Mar 2022 23:54:36 -0700 > From: Bernie and Cheryl <[email protected]> > To: [email protected] > Subject: [Elecraft] Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Dear Folks: > > I have been using my KPA-500 (driven by the K3s and transmitting through > the KAT-500) for about five years now.? I have long noticed that, when > first using it, or if it has sat idling for a while, the amp's supply > voltage will be low on transmit and won't go higher until the amp has > been used for a couple of minutes. This becomes critical in some > instances since, particularly on 20 meters, the supply voltage will be > below 60 volts on transmit for a while and won't increase unless I > reduce the drive power by a few watts.? I do always reduce the drive > power to make sure the supply voltage stays at 60 or above (I have been > told that this keeps the amp operating within normal limits and the math > indicates that this will make sure the current doesn't get too high).? > Once I've been transmitting for a minute or two (I almost always use > CW), the amp appears to warm up and I can bump up the drive power a few > watts for higher power output and still keep the supply voltage at 60 or > above. > > For the record, the amp is plugged into a normal wall outlet supplying > 117VAC (or whatever the house is supplying at that moment), though it is > not using any of the same outlets that the rest of the shack uses.? I > realize it is highly likely that all the outlets in the shack are on the > same breaker, but my prior tube-type amp used to dim the lights a bit > when I keyed it and had it plugged into the same outlets as the rest of > the shack.? That stopped happening once I switched the outlet for the > tube amp and now I'm using that same outlet solely for the KPA-500. > > My first question is whether any of you with a KPA-500 experience the > same thing, i.e., supply voltage is a little low at the beginning and > increases as the amp warms up? > > My second question concerns the fact that, even with the amp warmed up, > I can seldom (if ever) hit 500 watts out on 20 meters, though I can do > it easily on all the other bands (I recognize that this is likely caused > by my antenna's characteristics on that band, though SWR doesn't exceed > 1.7 at any frequency that I use, even without the tuner).? I simply > can't get the drive up high enough to get there, without the supply > voltage dipping below 60. Usually, I can get between 350 to 425 watts > out.? Do you think this would be different if I had a 220 volt outlet > installed in the shack?? For the record, I recognize that the 100 watt > or so decrease in power out doesn't make that much difference.? I am > asking because I wonder if it would be easier on the amp to run it off > of a 220 volt outlet. > > As always, thanks for any help and advice. > > 73 de Bernie, KF0QS > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 12 > Date: Mon, 7 Mar 2022 01:13:21 -0800 > From: Jim Brown <[email protected]> > To: [email protected] > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC > Message-ID: > <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > >> On 3/6/2022 10:54 PM, Bernie and Cheryl wrote: >> As always, thanks for any help and advice. > > As always, RTFM. The primary of the power transformer has three taps, > intended to accommodate the wide range of AC power that each of us has, > and the manual describes how to change those taps. It sounds like you > need to change yours. As does Bill, K9HZ/J68HZ/six other DX calls (who I > worked today on 10M in ARRL SSB DX), although he's in denial. > > The change involves choosing which of three colored wires is attached to > a terminal strip, accessible by removing the top cover. RTFM, RTFM, RTFM. > > 73, Jim K9YC > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 13 > Date: Mon, 7 Mar 2022 08:01:21 -0700 > From: James Cizek <[email protected]> > To: [email protected] > Subject: [Elecraft] question on KXPD2 > Message-ID: > <CAEhYSh+=DnWyBMphxFGjL=+krisv7vaa83rttdhf158kpam...@mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" > > I all, > > > I recently picked up a KXPD2 knowing I could use it on my existing KX3 and > will work on the KX2 once I receive it. > > I am not sure if I am missing something, or there is a manufacturing > problem, or it's just the way it is. Are the paddles supposed to have a > ton of vertical play/slop in them? The screws that come up and down from > the outside into the paddles that act as the bearing points slide around in > the holes like crazy. When you attempt to key you can see them move at 45 > degree angles as if the hole they are in is drilled out too big. Is that > normal? > > One paddle has about 1/8" vertical movement, the other almost a full 1/4". > It's hard to key quickly on these because they move all over the place. > The strange bearing slop is also causing me to be unable to adjust equal > pressure on the paddles. Since you press one side and they both move, you > cannot get the spring pressure equal since they move a different amount > left and right. > > I realize these are "field equipment' and not intended to be a finely tuned > precision device, but the way they move around so drastically makes it > unusable. > Just wondering if this is the way these are designed or if I need to call > Elecraft and ask about it! > > Thanks. > 73 > James > KI0KN > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 14 > Date: Mon, 7 Mar 2022 09:05:47 -0700 > From: Bernie and Cheryl <[email protected]> > To: [email protected], [email protected] > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > As always, RTFM. The primary of the power transformer has three taps, > intended to accommodate the wide range of AC power that each of us has, > and the manual describes how to change those taps. It sounds like you > need to change yours. As does Bill, K9HZ/J68HZ/six other DX calls (who I > worked today on 10M in ARRL SSB DX), although he's in denial. > > The change involves choosing which of three colored wires is attached to > a terminal strip, accessible by removing the top cover. RTFM, RTFM, RTFM. > > 73, Jim K9YC > > Jim: > > Not only did I RTFM, I built the amp in kit form. So, I did set the taps as > you describe (if memory serves, I used the middle tap which gave me the > proper setting according to the manual). > > Having resolved that, do you (or anyone else) have any other suggestions? > > 73 de Bernie, KF0QS > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 15 > Date: Mon, 7 Mar 2022 11:48:04 -0500 > From: David Olean <[email protected]> > To: Bernie and Cheryl <[email protected]>, [email protected] > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Question Regarding KPA-500 on 117 VAC > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Hello Bernie > > I have a KPA500 and run it on solar power with a 120 volt AC inverter.? > I have never seen the issues that you are recounting. The first thing to > do is check the voltage going in to the KPA500 with a good voltmeter.? > The next thing is something in the KPA500 ac input circuit that might be > mis behaving. Put an AC voltmeter on the transformer primary and monitor > that. Those points should be pretty stiff.? Bad circuit breakers could > be a problem. You might also have a bad circuit connection in? an AC box > or even an outlet. I had such a situation and it caused poor regulation > and a slight terrible smell as the plastic was baking. > > I ran my KPA500 only on 28 and 50 MHz, but had no problem getting gobs > of output on each band. VSWR was under 1.5:1. As I recaqll drive was > 19-20 watts and output would easily hit 500 or even more with the 117 > vac input. My inverter is a sine wave type by Xantrex, fed with a 500 AH > AGM battery. Lately I got a smaller 150AH lithium battery and the amp > still works just fine with 117 volts. > > Dave K1WHS > >> On 3/7/2022 1:54 AM, Bernie and Cheryl wrote: >> Dear Folks: >> >> I have been using my KPA-500 (driven by the K3s and transmitting >> through the KAT-500) for about five years now.? I have long noticed >> that, when first using it, or if it has sat idling for a while, the >> amp's supply voltage will be low on transmit and won't go higher until >> the amp has been used for a couple of minutes. This becomes critical >> in some instances since, particularly on 20 meters, the supply voltage >> will be below 60 volts on transmit for a while and won't increase >> unless I reduce the drive power by a few watts.? I do always reduce >> the drive power to make sure the supply voltage stays at 60 or above >> (I have been told that this keeps the amp operating within normal >> limits and the math indicates that this will make sure the current >> doesn't get too high).? Once I've been transmitting for a minute or >> two (I almost always use CW), the amp appears to warm up and I can >> bump up the drive power a few watts for higher power output and still >> keep the supply voltage at 60 or above. >> >> For the record, the amp is plugged into a normal wall outlet supplying >> 117VAC (or whatever the house is supplying at that moment), though it >> is not using any of the same outlets that the rest of the shack uses.? >> I realize it is highly likely that all the outlets in the shack are on >> the same breaker, but my prior tube-type amp used to dim the lights a >> bit when I keyed it and had it plugged into the same outlets as the >> rest of the shack.? That stopped happening once I switched the outlet >> for the tube amp and now I'm using that same outlet solely for the >> KPA-500. >> >> My first question is whether any of you with a KPA-500 experience the >> same thing, i.e., supply voltage is a little low at the beginning and >> increases as the amp warms up? >> >> My second question concerns the fact that, even with the amp warmed >> up, I can seldom (if ever) hit 500 watts out on 20 meters, though I >> can do it easily on all the other bands (I recognize that this is >> likely caused by my antenna's characteristics on that band, though SWR >> doesn't exceed 1.7 at any frequency that I use, even without the >> tuner).? I simply can't get the drive up high enough to get there, >> without the supply voltage dipping below 60. Usually, I can get >> between 350 to 425 watts out.? Do you think this would be different if >> I had a 220 volt outlet installed in the shack?? For the record, I >> recognize that the 100 watt or so decrease in power out doesn't make >> that much difference.? I am asking because I wonder if it would be >> easier on the amp to run it off of a 220 volt outlet. >> >> As always, thanks for any help and advice. >> >> 73 de Bernie, KF0QS >> >> >> ______________________________________________________________ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >> Post: mailto:[email protected] >> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >> Message delivered to [email protected] > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 16 > Date: Mon, 07 Mar 2022 10:47:30 -0800 > From: jerry <[email protected]> > To: Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> > Cc: [email protected] > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > >> On 2022-03-06 12:54, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote: >> Morgan, >> >> ??? Wow! That's a LOT of very useful information. While my situation >> doesn't include an amp, I like your comment about not being able to >> "kill" the Mercury III's. > > *** I actually ordered one of those. Or so I thought. It seems that my > email > may not have gone through. Long story, having to do with private email > servers and reverse DNS. > > I was actually on the fence. Because I've been working on a homebrew > project I call the "Medium Linear". It's a pair of MRF300's. A > wraparound cabinet from a Heathkit "Single Bander". Big heatsink in the > back with a Noctua fan. Little touch screen. > > I am already thinking about the next project - a bigger linear. The > Medium Linear only does about 350W on SSB with low distortion. I'm > assured that this is about normal for a pair of MRF300's. The Bigger > Linear would use an unusual power supply - a *battery*. I have a pair > of Panasonic Lithium Ion battery packs. Each one is rated about 50V, > and can source a constant current of 100A. I would keep it topped up > with a 50V 20A supply, and should be able to do an honest kilowatt on CW > and SSB from an ordinary 125VAC socket. > > - Jerry KF6VB > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 17 > Date: Mon, 7 Mar 2022 14:17:43 -0600 > From: Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 Vs. Flex 6400 > Message-ID: <[email protected]> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed > > Mike, > > ??? Of course, you're right about approaching it from the "eliminate > the noise" point-of-view, but I live in a condo with a constant S-7 or > so noise floor on 40 meters. No, it's not all from the surrounding > units, but that 101D as seen in the videos I've watched, seems to do > some amazing things! If it could do anything like I saw, it would be > well worth the money. Ah, well! still mulling it over... > > ??? k WB9FMC > >> On 3/7/22 10:25, Mike Fatchett wrote: >> You are attacking your noise problem from the wrong direction. You >> should be eliminating the noise sources around you first. Software >> solutions do not remove the noise they mask it.??? All noise blankers >> are different and I have found that they all handle some noises better >> than the other.? Under DX/contest crowded conditions received signals >> will become distorted. >> >> Many people do not set up their Flex's properly.? It is a fairly >> complex radio and is not for everyone.? It is incredibly flexible and >> does some amazing things.? Not everyone wants those features and would >> prefer a conventional radio with knobs. >> >> Good luck. >> >> W0MU >> >>> On 3/6/2022 1:54 PM, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote: >>> Morgan, >>> >>> ??? Wow! That's a LOT of very useful information. While my situation >>> doesn't include an amp, I like your comment about not being able to >>> "kill" the Mercury III's. I'll keep that in mind. >>> >>> ??? Well, thank you (and everyone else!) for these responses! Now I >>> have some thinking to do and a decision to make. If the FTDX-101D >>> really can help with my particular noise, that would be great... I'll >>> have to really think about that! It means I'd have to sell the Flex >>> (I'm already in the process of selling my vintage Drake equipment). >>> We'll see! >>> >>> ??? Thanks again! >>> >>> ??? k WB9FMC >>> >>> On 3/6/22 09:31, Morgan Bailey wrote: >>>> For me it is all about the RX. What really stands out with the >>>> FTDX101 is the noise control that it offers. Each button on the rig >>>> actually does something. And, each something is significant. No >>>> other rig that I have operated has ever measured up to the 101. I >>>> really need that advantage of noise control because I live in a city >>>> on a city lot, with power lines?on 3 sides and 3 transformers easily >>>> visible from my back or front yard. I have electrical noise and that >>>> coupled with band noise presents quite a problem. The 101 Rx is >>>> hands down the best. It makes SSB sound like FM. It makes the >>>> bandpass quiet until an actual signal shows up in it. No roar or >>>> harsh static is heard.? Once I figured out how I want stuff to >>>> sound, I hardly touch the buttons or knobs during a contest, other >>>> than the RIT (Clarifier on Yaesu) and Width controls. I consider >>>> myself an average contester. I live on a city lot with 68 linear >>>> feet for antennas. I cover all frequencies from 160 to 2 meters. I >>>> can run SO2R with ease running 2 radios on any of the 2 coax feeds >>>> to the switch. Each radio can run 1kw loafing and still not >>>> interfere with the other...sans other than the direct exact multiple >>>> harmonic, even still, it is only S7 to S9. >>>> >>>> Yes I know everyone complains about the relays. I do not. I grew up >>>> with open frame relays that cerchunked like motor control stuff in >>>> an industrial shop. I wear headphones, W1 Inrad, and do not give a >>>> tinker's damned?for QSK. Running SO2R takes QSK off the board. I >>>> suck at SO2R. Even when I am SO1R, which is 99% of the time, I still >>>> choose semi breakin and I?relax not having?to listen to the static >>>> and noise in between?each character. Running 36 to 40 WPM pretty >>>> much negates QSK so why listen to the noise. Noise fatigue during a >>>> long contest will wear you out. I found that when I drove >>>> motorcycles, having loud pipes wore me down. I wore ear plugs all >>>> the time. Later I found that doing 1k miles a day an easy?task only >>>> after I got rid of the pipes and switched to a much quieter, meaning >>>> silent exhaust. This again carries over to my experience with radios. >>>> >>>> I love the 101 so much, that yes I have 2 of them for SO2R. But for >>>> Field day, I took one out and had to tear down the station to move >>>> the radio to Field Day. Well, yes it works well at Field Day but >>>> also so does an FTDX10. I believe the FTDX10 is the premier radio >>>> for Field Day conditions. I love it so much that I bought one just >>>> for Field Day. Again it is 95% of what the 101 is but mainly it does >>>> not have the VC tune which is a game changer. I feel that the DX10 >>>> will be utilized for many DXpedions?based on cost and receiver >>>> quality being able to be operated in an RF noisy environment with ease. >>>> >>>> In closing, I love my FTDX101MP, FTDX101D and FTDX10. Taking them >>>> out of the box, turning them on, having them work the first time, >>>> what a joy it is having a finished product that performs like a >>>> miracle solution for my situation. DVRs that work, are easily run by >>>> N1MM, Keying memories the same, excellent parametric equalizers for >>>> transmit Audio, some of the highest average power out on ssb that I >>>> have ever seen, a great pan display, noise control second to none, >>>> enough menu options that are PLAIN TEXT and easily understood >>>> without?having?to go to the manual to look up stuff to decode the >>>> led shorthand hieroglyphics---for me, Yaesu just hit it out of the >>>> park, especially?when the value for the dollar is considered, NO >>>> one, absolutely NO one has come remotely close. I make this >>>> conclusion based on my ears, and my operation ease after having >>>> tried, 6500, 6600, 6600M, 6700, K3S, 7610, 890, 590, 991, 830, Omni6 >>>> and many more over the years. I played for an hour or so with a 7851 >>>> but for the $$$$, it is not a value for me when the 101 blows it >>>> away for my station needs. >>>> >>>> As for Linear Amps that is a whole different ball of wax. I have had >>>> many over the years. I have given many the torture test and can tell >>>> you which ones work and I would trust. But today, if i were to >>>> advise you to buy an AMP, i would ask a simple question, do you want >>>> to run FT8? If you run FT8 and want to run power there are very few >>>> amps that will stand the test. The next question I would ask is do >>>> you want a tube amp or a transistor amp. Tube amps, at least some of >>>> them are far more rugged for the dollar. Transistor amps are all >>>> about cooling. If you can't?keep them cool they are toast. In the >>>> end you pay for what you get. So your choices are limited. If you >>>> want a great tube amp and are willing to pay the dollars for 1500 >>>> key down then, ACOM or OM Power are the choices. If you want a >>>> transistor then there is only one that is stellar and that is the >>>> PGXL. If you want a middle of the road amp that is easy on the >>>> pocket then KM3KM produces the Mercury IIIs which will do a solid KW >>>> on CW and 699 watts on FT8 and easily 1200 SSB. I own 2 of them and >>>> have not been able to kill them. They are simple and would fit in >>>> most any shack. NO they do not have all the bells and whistles that >>>> other higher dollar amps have but saying that, they have less to go >>>> wrong and cost far less. My choice for an amp for a modest station >>>> is either an ACOM 1000 or a Mercury IIIs. This is based on Dollar >>>> Per Watt and reliability. >>>> >>>> HP 2 CU on the air! >>>> >>>> 73, Tnx for the Qs >>>> Morgan NJ8M >>>> >>>> BS + MS + $2.98 = COFFEE >>>> Real Life Experience = Priceless, says the man who set his back yard >>>> on fire with a breadboard tuner loading a 160 meter inverted L with >>>> 1000 watts. LOL >>>> >>>> >>>> On Sat, Mar 5, 2022 at 9:49 PM Kurt Pawlikowski <[email protected]> >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> ??? Scott, >>>> >>>> ??? ???? Well, yes: The "numbers" say one thing (or several things!), >>>> ??? but, >>>> ??? like I said, I'm in love with Elecraft... So, yes, I'm >>>> prejudiced! Of >>>> ??? course the "top radio (FT-DX101D)" is somewhat more expensive then >>>> ??? the >>>> ??? 6400, and does seem to have some nice whistles and bells. Who >>>> knows? >>>> ??? Maybe I'll do a switch to Yaesu... {'-) >>>> >>>> ??? ???? k WB9FMC >>>> >>>> ??? On 3/5/22 18:46, Scott Manthe wrote: >>>> ??? > Actually, the Yaesu FTDX101D/MP has the best receiver numbers on >>>> ??? > Sherwood's list. That doesn't mean that it's the best radio for >>>> ??? you, >>>> ??? > but the Flex and the K4 aren't "far and away" better receivers >>>> than >>>> ??? > anything else in the amateur market. Ironically, Rob seems to >>>> ??? really >>>> ??? > like Icoms... >>>> ??? > >>>> ??? > 73, >>>> ??? > Scott N9AA >>>> ??? > >>>> ??? > >>>> ??? > >>>> ??? > On 3/5/22 7:26 PM, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote: >>>> ??? >> Rich, Et Al, >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> ??? Thanks for the comments. >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> ??? Yes, I'm aware that this might bring up some sort of issues >>>> ??? >> people have with the manufactures or personal experience. My >>>> ??? own is >>>> ??? >> that when I was ordering the radio, I could afford the 6400. >>>> ??? But what >>>> ??? >> I was hoping for, maybe in vain, is some information about >>>> how the >>>> ??? >> rigs perform comparatively. I know that either of them are >>>> ??? >> far-and-away better receivers than anything else on the amateur >>>> ??? market. >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> ??? I my situation, I'm up against a lot of noise (live in a >>>> ??? condo). >>>> ??? >> The Flex seems to mitigate some of that. I was hoping that >>>> the K4 >>>> ??? >> would be at least comparable. >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> ??? CW delay: Well, I wired my key and headphones directly to >>>> the >>>> ??? >> Flex. My control PC would be way too slow to operate CW >>>> through it. >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> ??? Well, I'm not sure which way to go at this time. I like the >>>> ??? Flex, >>>> ??? >> but I'm "in-love" with Elecraft! Just wish I had a more >>>> ??? experiential >>>> ??? >> based opinion to consider! >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> ??? Thanks all for your comments! I'll keep my eye on this >>>> ??? thread... >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> ??? k WB9FMC >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? >> >>>> ??? > >>>> ______________________________________________________________ >>>> ??? Elecraft mailing list >>>> ??? Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >>>> ??? Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >>>> ??? Post: mailto:[email protected] >>>> >>>> ??? This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >>>> ??? Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >>>> ??? Message delivered to [email protected] >>> ______________________________________________________________ >>> Elecraft mailing list >>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >>> Post: mailto:[email protected] >>> >>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >>> Message delivered to [email protected] > > > ------------------------------ > > _______________________________________________ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: [email protected] > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > You must be a subscriber to post. > Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com > > End of Elecraft Digest, Vol 215, Issue 4 > **************************************** ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected]
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