The I-F output samples the signal after the first down conversion but before the
narrow band filtering. Because of its location, it is behind the T/R switching
and doesn't need further protection. For the usual applications, e.g. a
bandscope (panadapter) the (nearly*) fixed frequency is preferred. If you want
to tap the antenna for a second radio to tune another band then obviously you
don't want the I-F.
*In the Elecraft radios the I-F varies depending on sideband, CW pitch etc. I
used SDR-IQs run with SpectraVue software as bandscopes with my K3 and K3S for
years. SpectraVue has the smarts built in to accommodate this frequency
shifting and to remove it from the frequency display. I believe some of the
video game SDR programs will do this as well.
SpectraVue will also track your TS-890 when the antenna is shared. The SDR is
protected by the T/R switching but you have to put up with the clacking relay
that shares the antenna.
Wes N7WS
On 3/9/2024 1:37 PM, JHR wrote:
Please help me understand how the IF OUT works on an Elecraft radio. Is it
the same thing as sharing the antenna with a T/R switch, or does it tap the RF
processing chain later down the line. Does the IF OUT merely share the
antenna, or does it come later in the circuit - are there any practical
reasons why one is better than the other? I presume the IF OUT is better, but
wonder why.
[It matters and will settle a bet who eats steak and who eats hot dog.]
Thanks in advance K8JHR
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