Re: [Elecraft] Greetings! (stripping and cleaning suggestion)
I only had a couple of problems building the K2/100, various options, and a KAT100-1. I'd suggest a Dremel tool for stripping paint and anodizing and a pocket knife for stripping 20ga enameled wire. Use the pocket knife to get most of the enamel off before you start to tin it. The smaller gauge wire strips fine with the hot solder blob trick but the 20 ga wire was a bear until I used the pocket knife trick. Other people probably have better luck using sandpaper to scrape off the paint on the insides of chassis, but I find the Dremel much more controllable and saves a lot of time. I was sanding for 45 minutes on the KPA100 heat sink trying to remove the anodizing until I gave up and got a new Dremel wire brush bit. The Dremel takes less than a minute and has more control over the area affected. You'll probably need a Dremel for the transverters, too. My buddy Greg had better luck with the Dremel than sandpaper on the transverters. Hey Wayne and Eric, could you get the painters to mask off the parts for the KAT100? Actually, I've already finished the thing, so maybe everyone else can have the same fun I did. :) -- Hisashi T Fujinaka - [EMAIL PROTECTED] BSEE(6/86) + BSChem(3/95) + BAEnglish(8/95) + MSCS(8/03) + $2.50 = latte ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Navigating the Modification maze
Tom, Actually the Elecraft 'spare parts and mods' order information is easier to work with for what you want to do than the LA3ZA listing - I don't want to diminish the usefullness of the LA3ZA listing, but it contains many 'special purpose' mods and can be intimidating just by virtue of the sheer quantity of mods listed. My recommendation to any K2 owner with lower than SN 3000 is that you first download the A to B instructions, then order and install all the parts (kits) listed in that document - unless some are already installed, plus - order the PLL Temperature stability mod and the Keying Waveshape mod - and in addition, if you do not have 2 1N4148 diodes in your junkbox, order 2 of those also. Order and install the K2 firmware upgrade (you will need it with the Keying Waveshape mod), and install the sidetone source change indicated in the KPA100 and/or KIO2 instrucitions (even if you don't need it). Also if your SN is less than 2650, order a new set of crystals too (filter width modification kits are also available if you desire a change). Check the turns on T7 as you are doing the upgrades and if you have the very old 13:3 ratio, change it to the newer 22:5 ratio. The 2 diodes are to add the 'Extremely Strong Signal Handling' change to your K2 (download the Rev F K2 manual and look at page 59 column 1 to see how to install the diodes). If your KPA100 is not the latest level, order the changes for that option too (you can tell the level by the resistors - download the KPA100 manual to compare with yours). If you do all the above, you should end up with the electrical equivalent of the newest K2 being shipped, and it will 'perform like a new one' - you will not be disappointed. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > The LA3ZA Unofficial Guide to Elecraft K2 Modifications is an excellent > resource for determining the mods that exist for the K2. What I find > confusing however, is where some of the upgrades incorporate or include > other mods. For example, I understand that the KPA-100 includes > some of the > Revision B mods. In short, I am more than a little confused in > this regard. > > > I am planning on upgrading my K2, serial # 2359 [firmware 2.01H] with the > KPA-100 and KDSP2. It has the KSB2 and also the KIO2 (which I > understand is > superseded by some arrangement in the KPA-100). At the same time, I would > like to install the Revision B and firmware upgrade, and perhaps the wider > SSB crystals. > > My question is whether there is someone on this list who has a similar > vintage K2, and who is also planning on installing at least the > KPA-100 and > Revision B. Perhaps someone has already studied the charts and > information, > and figured out exactly what must be installed. If so, could you contact > me? I would like to develop a list of all the upgrades/mods and purchase > them at one time. Hopefully someone has done all this research, > from which > I can benefit. Thanks in advance. Tom W6EIJ > ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] The K2 L31 "Debate": 10uH v.s. 12uH
Hi Mike,
The advantage of obtaining the desired PLL reference oscillator tuning
range (9.8 kHz or more) is that the K2 will then maintain perfect VFO
tuning linearity down to and below 160 meters -- usually well into the
AM broadcast band (1400 kHz or so on K2s I've tested). The broadcast
band is a lot of fun to explore at night ("AM DXing" they call this).
Have fun,
Wayne
N6KR
On Mar 28, 2005, at 9:24 PM, MikeH wrote:
Hello Fellow K2 Owners:
I recently finished my K2 (4661) and it works great. My kit came with
the 10uH L31, which I did install, however Elecraft sent me the 12uH
L31 to swap in order to bring the PLL Reference Oscillator range up
from 9.4kHz to something closer to the 9.8kHz range. As we know, the
official advice from Elecraft is that a range down to 8.8kHz is
acceptable. So I assume that Elecraft sent the 12uH part so that I
could make the swap if I felt better doing so. Or perhaps it's just
that opinions on what is an acceptable range vary.
So my question is this: what performance gain would I get by using the
12uH part instead of the 10uH part that is currently installed? Yes, I
could just make the swap and see for myself, but too often I've found
that the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" adage to be a good one (at
least for this less technically inclined ham). Maybe when the radio
has a few more miles on it, I'll go ahead and make the change to L31
to see what happens, but for now I'm tempted to just keep things as
they are unless there is a compelling reason to make the change.
---
http://www.elecraft.com
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Re: [Elecraft] Greetings!
By all means, if you have the capability, build the radio. It is a lot of fun. Then you'll want to build another option for it, and then still another. It is insidious but you will feel a bit depressed after finishing your first Elecraft kit. However, remember you can use the rig for many years. Unless you sell it to finance building a new one. You will enjoy getting on the air with it. It is a very nice radio. The best part? You built it yourself! If something goes wrong (heaven forbid) you can repair it with a cry for help to either the Reflector, Gary Surrency, or even Wayne or Eric. All of these options are available. These folks (and us folks too) will not let you fail. Build it yourself unless your slave driver boss works you 24/7, if you can't see to the end of your soldering iron, or you were born with two left hands and tendency toward self-immolation. Barring these disabilities you will regret not building it yourself. Because one night you will find yourself checking in to the Elecraft CW Net and hearing the joy in folks' fists. These folks built their Elecraft rigs and are happily pounding brass in exultation. Do you wish to feel left out of this chorus of joy? Forbid the thought; build the rig and enjoy the happy state of flux, solder, and RF. Sincerely, Kevin. KD5ONS On Mon, 28 Mar 2005 23:46:03 -0500, Stephen W. Kercel <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Ron: Like you, I am taking a bit of time getting ready before I build a rig. Preparation, including creating the workspace, collecting the tools and so on, is no small task. Personally, I have never considered "hiring done" the construction of an Elecraft rig. It looks to me like the greater half of the experience of operating comes from building it with one's own hands. 73, Steve AA4AK At 10:06 PM 3/28/2005 -0600, you wrote: Wow, I am quite impressed at the responses both on this reflector and direct. I appreciate the info from builders for hire, as well as the encouragement to build it myself. To answer many of your responses, I _am_ considering doing it myself, but it is a matter of time and motivation. I have an 8 year old son, so spring, and the summer vacation season, are already booked. I couldn't even start to learn until fall. It could be possible to make the time available in October to get tools, set up a workstation, and begin. (I would also have to get motivated to commit the hours). I'm thinking it over, but also considering a builder. Thanks for all your responses! --Ron KC0TLN ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraftHelp: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.308 / Virus Database: 266.8.4 - Release Date: 3/27/2005 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] The K2 L31 "Debate": 10uH v.s. 12uH
Hello Fellow K2 Owners: I recently finished my K2 (4661) and it works great. My kit came with the 10uH L31, which I did install, however Elecraft sent me the 12uH L31 to swap in order to bring the PLL Reference Oscillator range up from 9.4kHz to something closer to the 9.8kHz range. As we know, the official advice from Elecraft is that a range down to 8.8kHz is acceptable. So I assume that Elecraft sent the 12uH part so that I could make the swap if I felt better doing so. Or perhaps it's just that opinions on what is an acceptable range vary. So my question is this: what performance gain would I get by using the 12uH part instead of the 10uH part that is currently installed? Yes, I could just make the swap and see for myself, but too often I've found that the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" adage to be a good one (at least for this less technically inclined ham). Maybe when the radio has a few more miles on it, I'll go ahead and make the change to L31 to see what happens, but for now I'm tempted to just keep things as they are unless there is a compelling reason to make the change. Mike NR7F ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Navigating the Modification maze
The LA3ZA Unofficial Guide to Elecraft K2 Modifications is an excellent resource for determining the mods that exist for the K2. What I find confusing however, is where some of the upgrades incorporate or include other mods. For example, I understand that the KPA-100 includes some of the Revision B mods. In short, I am more than a little confused in this regard. I am planning on upgrading my K2, serial # 2359 [firmware 2.01H] with the KPA-100 and KDSP2. It has the KSB2 and also the KIO2 (which I understand is superseded by some arrangement in the KPA-100). At the same time, I would like to install the Revision B and firmware upgrade, and perhaps the wider SSB crystals. My question is whether there is someone on this list who has a similar vintage K2, and who is also planning on installing at least the KPA-100 and Revision B. Perhaps someone has already studied the charts and information, and figured out exactly what must be installed. If so, could you contact me? I would like to develop a list of all the upgrades/mods and purchase them at one time. Hopefully someone has done all this research, from which I can benefit. Thanks in advance. Tom W6EIJ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Greetings!
Ron: Like you, I am taking a bit of time getting ready before I build a rig. Preparation, including creating the workspace, collecting the tools and so on, is no small task. Personally, I have never considered "hiring done" the construction of an Elecraft rig. It looks to me like the greater half of the experience of operating comes from building it with one's own hands. 73, Steve AA4AK At 10:06 PM 3/28/2005 -0600, you wrote: Wow, I am quite impressed at the responses both on this reflector and direct. I appreciate the info from builders for hire, as well as the encouragement to build it myself. To answer many of your responses, I _am_ considering doing it myself, but it is a matter of time and motivation. I have an 8 year old son, so spring, and the summer vacation season, are already booked. I couldn't even start to learn until fall. It could be possible to make the time available in October to get tools, set up a workstation, and begin. (I would also have to get motivated to commit the hours). I'm thinking it over, but also considering a builder. Thanks for all your responses! --Ron KC0TLN ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] AGC 8 volts? (Nope)
Mike, No, I do not believe the last digit on your measurement - call it 3.79 and be done with it - that is close enough. Yes, U4 is the culprit here. Everything will likely work FB with the 7.88 volts, and the main thing you will observe is that the 'bogey value' AGC Threshold should be lowered a bit - my guess is: because your 8 volt rail is 0.12 volts low, you should initially set the AGC threshold so the voltage is about 0.06 volts lower than specified in the manual (set to 3.74 volts). I do recommend optimizing your AGC Threshold after you have the K2 up and running on all bands. With no antenna attached, there should be no audible difference between the AGC on and AGC off conditions (using a 0.70 width CW filter on 40 meters with the Preamp off). To achieve that, I would believe that you will end up with an AGC Threshold somewhere between 3.65 volts and 3.70 volts - but that remains to be seen for your particular K2. Further refinements/adjustments are possible, but I cannot go into all the details in a reasonable length reflector post. If you want to do this optimization, the goal should be to achieve a condition where the receiver gain is not reduced by internal receiver noise while retaining 'good' S-meter activity (the CAL S-LO and CAL S-HI setting interact with the AGC Threshold and can create a lot of work if you choose to 'get it just right' - and what is 'right' is subject to individual interpretation). 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > Thanks very much, Don, for your ideas. My email had faulty numbers as a > result of a faulty (human!) memory. I remeasured voltages just now at > Control Board locations you measured and got these results: > >- U2 pin 5: maxes out at 3.792 Vif you believe that many >significant figures. > >- P1 pin 6: 1.2 mV > >- U4 OUT: 7.88 V ... the culprit? > > I will disassemble and check my solder connections you mentioned. > > Thanks and 73, > Mike AB3AP > Avondale, PA > > >>from Delaware once I make a portable dipole for 20m. Maybe another > >>month, plus or minus a little. In my year and a half on the air as a > >>ham I've never checked into a CW net, though, so that'll probably be an > >>adventure itself! > >> > >>Mike AB3AP > >> > ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Greetings!
Wow, I am quite impressed at the responses both on this reflector and direct. I appreciate the info from builders for hire, as well as the encouragement to build it myself. To answer many of your responses, I _am_ considering doing it myself, but it is a matter of time and motivation. I have an 8 year old son, so spring, and the summer vacation season, are already booked. I couldn't even start to learn until fall. It could be possible to make the time available in October to get tools, set up a workstation, and begin. (I would also have to get motivated to commit the hours). I'm thinking it over, but also considering a builder. Thanks for all your responses! --Ron KC0TLN ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] AGC 8 volts? (Nope)
Thanks very much, Don, for your ideas. My email had faulty numbers as a result of a faulty (human!) memory. I remeasured voltages just now at Control Board locations you measured and got these results: - U2 pin 5: maxes out at 3.792 Vif you believe that many significant figures. - P1 pin 6: 1.2 mV - U4 OUT: 7.88 V ... the culprit? I will disassemble and check my solder connections you mentioned. Thanks and 73, Mike AB3AP Avondale, PA W3FPR - Don Wilhelm wrote: > Mike, > > Are you measuring on the correct pin, and do you have the RF GAIN at full > Clockwise rotation (Max gain)? > > I see no indication that 8 volts should be measured for the AGC. The manual > page 47 calls for setting the AGC Threshold pot to achieve a voltage of 3.80 > volts as measured at Control Board U2 pin 5. If you are not able to adjust > that high, check the soldering of Control Board RP6 and pot R1 carefully, > make certain the resistance from Control Board P1 pin 6 to ground is close > to zero (if it is higher, check the connectors), and lastly check the > voltage available at the OUT terminal of Control Board U4. There are no > active devices in this part of the circuit - it is just a resistive voltage > divider with two legs and driven by the 8 volt supply rail. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > > >>-Original Message- >> >>Last night I completed what the manual calls "Assembly, Part I" of the >>RF board. What a great feeling to power up the K2 to check out the >>control and display boards, and to hear the relays click and see the >>menus working. So far the only thing that hasn't quite reached >>recommended values is that my control board AGC voltage maxes out at >>7.92 V rather than the 8 V mentioned in the manual. I'll have to search >>& see if anyone has reported a similar thing. >> >>Anyway, once the K2 is up and running I'll be glad to check into the net >>from Delaware once I make a portable dipole for 20m. Maybe another >>month, plus or minus a little. In my year and a half on the air as a >>ham I've never checked into a CW net, though, so that'll probably be an >>adventure itself! >> >>Mike AB3AP >> > > > > ___ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > You must be a subscriber to post to the list. > Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm > Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] AGC 8 volts?
Mike, Are you measuring on the correct pin, and do you have the RF GAIN at full Clockwise rotation (Max gain)? I see no indication that 8 volts should be measured for the AGC. The manual page 47 calls for setting the AGC Threshold pot to achieve a voltage of 3.80 volts as measured at Control Board U2 pin 5. If you are not able to adjust that high, check the soldering of Control Board RP6 and pot R1 carefully, make certain the resistance from Control Board P1 pin 6 to ground is close to zero (if it is higher, check the connectors), and lastly check the voltage available at the OUT terminal of Control Board U4. There are no active devices in this part of the circuit - it is just a resistive voltage divider with two legs and driven by the 8 volt supply rail. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > Last night I completed what the manual calls "Assembly, Part I" of the > RF board. What a great feeling to power up the K2 to check out the > control and display boards, and to hear the relays click and see the > menus working. So far the only thing that hasn't quite reached > recommended values is that my control board AGC voltage maxes out at > 7.92 V rather than the 8 V mentioned in the manual. I'll have to search > & see if anyone has reported a similar thing. > > Anyway, once the K2 is up and running I'll be glad to check into the net > from Delaware once I make a portable dipole for 20m. Maybe another > month, plus or minus a little. In my year and a half on the air as a > ham I've never checked into a CW net, though, so that'll probably be an > adventure itself! > > Mike AB3AP > ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K2 power limitation
Hi The problem has been solved. K2 shows good enough power on all bands after re-install T4. Thanks guys who gave me good suggestion. 73 de aki, ja1nlx - Original Message - From: "a.yoshida" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; Sent: Monday, March 28, 2005 1:25 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 power limitation > Don > > Thanks for your help. > > Will re-install T4 and see how K2 works. > > 73 de aki, ja1nlx > > > - Original Message - > From: "W3FPR - Don Wilhelm" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: "a.yoshida" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; > Sent: Monday, March 28, 2005 1:13 PM > Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K2 power limitation > > > > Aki, > > > > If you still have T4 reversed, yes, it would account for the problem. > > If you now have T4 correct and still have low power, look carefully at the > > Low Pass filters. > > > > 73, > > Don W3FPR > > > > > -Original Message- > > > Finished building K2 but found a problem. > > > > > > TX power is always under 5W on ALL bands. > > > > > > I found my wrong install of T4 (1-2 and 3-4 are > > > > > > reversed !) > > > > > > Does this make the problem ??? > > > > > > 73 de aki, ja1nlx > > > > > > > > > ___ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > You must be a subscriber to post to the list. > Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm > Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Polar Bear Page has New Pics!
Hello all, I just added some new polar bear event pictures so check them out! I will add more later. http://www.wa3wsj.com/files/PolarBear2005.html 72, Ed, WA3WSJ Polar Bear #1 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K1-4 & KAT1
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I've been building this puppy for the past year or so (about on schedule, for me -- my K2 took 18 months). It's designed to put out about 35 watts, as Sandy says, and I'm planning on using it to boost my K2's output on psk31. (I'll have to run it at reduced power on psk31.) It's a nice kit of parts, has a bulletin board on the Internet to post questions and the support for it is very good. For those, like me who failed metal shop, you can even purchase a pre-drilled enclosure for it (it needs to be painted, though). For me this hould do the job without going the full gallon of 100 watts with the Elecraft amp...at least until Elecraft's version is released. Tom, WB2QDG K2 1103 -- Original message -- From: "Sandy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> No to "slight" Elecraft! There IS a very nice amplifier kit available that works great with the K1! Will do 35-40 watts out for 2-2.5 watts of drive. Uses a pair of power FETs. Has filters for all bands from 160-10 meters. Checkout "HFPacker" search on Google and you will get the link to the website. Nothing is drilled or tapped in the heatsink or chassis! It is truly a "kit" of aprts. PC boards very nice! 73, Sandy W5TVW - Original Message - From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Sunday, March 27, 2005 12:47 PM Subject: [Elecraft] K1-4 & KAT1 | Hello, Fellow Elecrafters: | | I've completed and installed a KAT1 ATU in my K1-4, s/n 1453. I'm surprised | and pleased that in addition to effectively tuning the antenna & coax for | lowest SWR, the ATU acts as a "preselector" and improves the gain of the receiver | slightly. All 4 band seem just a bit "brighter" after tuning with the KAT1. | | I've read a discussion recently about moving a jumper on P3 on the RF board | to activate the KAT1. My instructions don't mention this. I'm wondering if | I'm missing something. My RF board is Rev. E, and my KAT1 manual is Rev. C | (Jan. 18, 2001). I did leave one end of resistor R3 unsoldered, as instructed in | the KAT1 manual. | | I observed a few minor "discrepancies" in the KAT1 manual that are not | covered in the errata. For example, the manual says to install a 3-pin and a 10-pin | female connector on the K1 filter board. However, these parts were already | installed when I built the K1. Perhaps the extra connectors were supplied in | case you had an additional (older?) filter board? It would be helpful if the | errata mentioned this. | | Now I'm looking forward to my next Elecraft project - "booties" for my K1. | I'd like to see an Elecraft KPA-1, an external amplifier for the K1, for fixed | station use. It would have at least 10 dB gain, with an in/out switch and a | row of leds to indicate peak power. I know this will be heresy to some | Elecrafters, but the extra oomph would help working DX pileups! Are you listening | Wayne? | | 73, Jim K5HO | ___ | Elecraft mailing list | Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net | You must be a subscriber to post to the list. | Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): | http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft | | Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm | Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com | | ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com New "Deluxe" kit available. Fabricated, drilled, painted chassis with silk screened front and rear panels, drilled and tapped heat sink 73, Tony W7GO ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 mods update
The LA3ZA Unofficial Guide to Elecraft K2 Modifications on http://www.qslnet.de/la3za/K2/mod.html and http://www.qsl.net/la3za/K2/mod.html has been updated again. I never stop wondering about all the creativity that the K2 inspires, but with thousands of builders out there, maybe one should not be surprised. Here are new updates since January: - Extra IF prefilter (G3RXQ) - Faster QSK switching (G4BJM) - Lightning protection of antenna i/o (F5UL) - 2 K2s running together (G3PJT) - CW keyer memory doubling (WB9KZY) - KSB2 low frequency roll-off (G3RXQ) - PTT LED indicator (4Z4TL) - Charging of internal battery without series diode (PA3GYU) - Remoting the KPA100 without a KIO2 (LA3ZA) - KPA100: Computer polling noise elimination (K8DD) - Elimination of pop when changing from rx to tx - KIO2: 15 pin connector instead of 9 pin for security and extra i/o-lines (WD8QWR) Sverre LA3ZA http://www.qsl.net/la3za/ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: Re: [Elecraft] Delaware! & AGC
I don't recall for sure, having recently completed my K2, but I may have had that same problem at first as well. Make sure you are connecting to a good ground on the RF board. Use those little loops of wire, that is what they are for. I had also put the ground probe for the DMM into one of the 2D connectors but found that my voltage measurement was a bit low. When I used the ground on the board the voltage came right up to what it should be. As a test engineer I have learned to question measurements and to remeasure. I sometimes stop remeasuring once I get the answer I want to get. ;^) Mark, NK8Q K2 #4786 >From: Paul Bruneau <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >Date: Mon Mar 28 10:22:27 CST 2005 >To: Elecraft Reflector >Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Delaware! & AGC >On Mar 28, 2005, at 10:55 AM, Mike Markowski wrote: > >> Last night I completed what the manual calls "Assembly, Part I" of the >> RF board. What a great feeling to power up the K2 to check out the >> control and display boards, and to hear the relays click and see the >> menus working. So far the only thing that hasn't quite reached >> recommended values is that my control board AGC voltage maxes out at >> 7.92 V rather than the 8 V mentioned in the manual. I'll have to >> search >> & see if anyone has reported a similar thing. > >I'm really glad you posted that because I just ran mine through those >tests a few days ago and was slightly troubled to note that mine also >maxed out just under the 8v. I think mine got up to 7.98. I'll be >interested to see what you find out, or who else might chime in with >some data. > >Thanks, >Paul >KB8NMZ (This weekend I upgraded to General from Grandfathered Novice in >anticipation of my K2's completion!) >K2 SN 4818 > >___ >Elecraft mailing list >Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net >You must be a subscriber to post to the list. >Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > >Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm >Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Delaware! & AGC
On Mar 28, 2005, at 10:55 AM, Mike Markowski wrote: Last night I completed what the manual calls "Assembly, Part I" of the RF board. What a great feeling to power up the K2 to check out the control and display boards, and to hear the relays click and see the menus working. So far the only thing that hasn't quite reached recommended values is that my control board AGC voltage maxes out at 7.92 V rather than the 8 V mentioned in the manual. I'll have to search & see if anyone has reported a similar thing. I'm really glad you posted that because I just ran mine through those tests a few days ago and was slightly troubled to note that mine also maxed out just under the 8v. I think mine got up to 7.98. I'll be interested to see what you find out, or who else might chime in with some data. Thanks, Paul KB8NMZ (This weekend I upgraded to General from Grandfathered Novice in anticipation of my K2's completion!) K2 SN 4818 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K1-4 & KAT1
I've been building this puppy for the past year or so (about on schedule, for me -- my K2 took 18 months). It's designed to put out about 35 watts, as Sandy says, and I'm planning on using it to boost my K2's output on psk31. (I'll have to run it at reduced power on psk31.) It's a nice kit of parts, has a bulletin board on the Internet to post questions and the support for it is very good. For those, like me who failed metal shop, you can even purchase a pre-drilled enclosure for it (it needs to be painted, though). For me this hould do the job without going the full gallon of 100 watts with the Elecraft amp...at least until Elecraft's version is released. Tom, WB2QDG K2 1103 -- Original message -- From: "Sandy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > No to "slight" Elecraft! There IS a very nice amplifier kit available that > works > great with the K1! > Will do 35-40 watts out for 2-2.5 watts of drive. Uses a pair of power FETs. > > Has > filters > for all bands from 160-10 meters. > Checkout "HFPacker" search on Google and you will get the link to the website. > Nothing is drilled or tapped in the heatsink or chassis! It is truly a "kit" > of > aprts. PC boards very nice! > 73, > Sandy W5TVW > - Original Message - > From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: > Sent: Sunday, March 27, 2005 12:47 PM > Subject: [Elecraft] K1-4 & KAT1 > > > | Hello, Fellow Elecrafters: > | > | I've completed and installed a KAT1 ATU in my K1-4, s/n 1453. I'm surprised > | and pleased that in addition to effectively tuning the antenna & coax for > | lowest SWR, the ATU acts as a "preselector" and improves the gain of the > receiver > | slightly. All 4 band seem just a bit "brighter" after tuning with the KAT1. > | > | I've read a discussion recently about moving a jumper on P3 on the RF board > | to activate the KAT1. My instructions don't mention this. I'm wondering if > | I'm missing something. My RF board is Rev. E, and my KAT1 manual is Rev. C > | (Jan. 18, 2001). I did leave one end of resistor R3 unsoldered, as > instructed > in > | the KAT1 manual. > | > | I observed a few minor "discrepancies" in the KAT1 manual that are not > | covered in the errata. For example, the manual says to install a 3-pin and > a > 10-pin > | female connector on the K1 filter board. However, these parts were already > | installed when I built the K1. Perhaps the extra connectors were supplied > in > | case you had an additional (older?) filter board? It would be helpful if > the > | errata mentioned this. > | > | Now I'm looking forward to my next Elecraft project - "booties" for my K1. > | I'd like to see an Elecraft KPA-1, an external amplifier for the K1, for > fixed > | station use. It would have at least 10 dB gain, with an in/out switch and a > | row of leds to indicate peak power. I know this will be heresy to some > | Elecrafters, but the extra oomph would help working DX pileups! Are you > listening > | Wayne? > | > | 73, Jim K5HO > | ___ > | Elecraft mailing list > | Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > | You must be a subscriber to post to the list. > | Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > | http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > | > | Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm > | Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com > | > | > > ___ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > You must be a subscriber to post to the list. > Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm > Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Delaware! & AGC (was: Elecraft CW Net Announcement)
Kevin, Kevin Rock wrote on 03/26/05 23:15 ET: > >Now to get someone from Delaware or South Dakota to check in to the > Elecraft Net. I don't believe folks use amateur radios in Delaware. > Prove me wrong tomorrow evening ;) I live in PA but will be glad to operate from my parents' or sister's place down in DE one of these days, but there's a catch. I'm still building my new K2. :-) Last night I completed what the manual calls "Assembly, Part I" of the RF board. What a great feeling to power up the K2 to check out the control and display boards, and to hear the relays click and see the menus working. So far the only thing that hasn't quite reached recommended values is that my control board AGC voltage maxes out at 7.92 V rather than the 8 V mentioned in the manual. I'll have to search & see if anyone has reported a similar thing. Anyway, once the K2 is up and running I'll be glad to check into the net from Delaware once I make a portable dipole for 20m. Maybe another month, plus or minus a little. In my year and a half on the air as a ham I've never checked into a CW net, though, so that'll probably be an adventure itself! Mike AB3AP ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 #4726 alive!!
Hi o all the list As expected, K2 #4726 passed alignment and test part III without troubles. As far as I operate 100% QRP I wound T4 for better efficiency at 5W (2:2 ratio). One of the first contacts on 40m was with Fred, EA5/DL4ZBY, who was also with a K2 running 10W to a G5RV antenna. I was running 4W to a compromise antenna (random vertical square loop around the front façade of the building feeding a 4:1 balun to a Z11 atu). I hope in a few weeks I will erect a 23' marine whip with a LDG QRP tuner in a waterproof case at the antenna base with a set of resonant radials. The fact is that I have no room for wire antennas and the vertical whip is a feasible alternative basically because of the strong winds in that area (I already had to disassemble a R7000 and R7 because they were absolutely bent by the strong wind storms). I hope also to be able to refurbish the antenna setup in my home QTH in Barcelona to be able to put strong QRP sigs with my 2 element delta loop (Lightning Bolt) from 10 to 20m and my 102' doublet dipole with open line feeders, 4:1 balun and again Z11 atu. I will probably try as well a windom FD3 (I do not have room for the FD4). Next weekend I will test and install the K2 accessories I built: KSB2, NB2 and AF2. I am planning as well to add the digital modes interface designed by Pauli, EA3BLQ. I guess that PSK31 is a suitable mode to operate in QRP. Best 72 to all de Vicens, EA3ADV ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Solved 30m deafness problem
Well, I re-installed the 30m module now, used my own bus wire which is thicker than the Elecraft stuff, it's heavy dooty now, but it went in fine and it works now! One person here suggested the 30m module could have been shorting against the case, but I looked inside with a flashlight shining in the other side and there's actually tons of room between the 30m module and case - it's amazing to think the rubber pads were necessary in the first place. I think I probably put one of the wires in the wrong place originally. I'm glad I didn't gronk anything! 73 de NS6Y Alex. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
R: [Elecraft] XG1... other frequencies possible?
Hi all... Thank you for all the replies... I think I' going to try the original xtal before, then I'll try and replace it with some fundamental XTAL in the 20m band... I knew abut the useable harmonics, but what I need is calibrated output from the XG1 in the 20m... and I have no way to measure the output :-( Thanks a lot again to everybody... 73 de Joe, IW7ECJ > The XG1 has quite strong output on its harmonics, 14.080, 21.120 and > 28.160MHz. Information is on page 3 of the manual. The second harmonic on > 14.080 is approximately 7dB down on the fundamental. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
