Re: [Elecraft] Improvement changes to K2 and K1 transceivers
Bill, Gian might be suggesting the use of H-mode mixers to replace the TUF-1 mixer and NE602 product detector, but I have not asked him. The H-mode mixer has a much higher 3rd Order Intercept than either the TUF-1 or NE602, but I would have thought that the very good IMD performance of the H-mode mixer would be wasted in the K2. As I see it the IMD performance of the 2N5109 post mixer amplifier, variable bandwidth IF filter and MC1350 IF amplifier (and probably the front end bandpass filters) would become the weak link, and determine the overall IMD performance of a modified K2. Also the H-mode mixer requires a 50% duty cycle squarewave LO injection for best IMD performance which would require some modification of the K2's LO and BFO output circuitry, although this modification might not be necessary because of the poor (by comparison) IMD performance of the weak link mentioned above. 73, Geoff GM4ESD On Wednesday, May 09, 2007 at 2:46 AM, Bill Coleman wrote: On May 8, 2007, at 11:11 AM, Giancarlo Moda wrote: See for file: “I7SWX possible changes to K2 and K1 RTX”. It is possible you need to be a member. The documentation reports suggested changes: 1)Front-end mixer replacement and roofing filter addition. These mods have been implemented and tested by I0CG in his K2. Part of the beauty of the K2 is that it is a very simple radio, superbly executed. (To paraphrase a comment K9AY said to me before I bought one) The K2 uses a TUF-1 balanced mixer with close attention to the injection levels and impedance matching. You'd be hard-pressed to improve the mixer performance for HF. Since the K2 is single-conversion, the primary crystal filter IS the roofing filter. The primary crystal filter is pretty darn good for CW or RTTY. 2)Demodulator replacement. What would you do to replace the product detector? Since the dynamic range of the signals after the AGC of the IF stage is pretty limited, the NE602 is a pretty good choice. It wouldn't be easy to do better, especially at the price point for the K2. ___ 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] K3 - Aging Population
One thing I liked about my IC-7800 was the copious audio output, by contrast my IC-703 is quite feeble albeit not too bad. I'm not requesting a 20+2W stereo amp in the K3, rather at least one watt RMS or maybe a tad more if possible. I like using a large Hi-Fi speaker, more is always better. Roll on July 2007 :-) Simon Brown, HB9DRV ___ 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] Re: aging population
Hi Simon, Can you speak a little louder :)) Peter ZL1PWD PS: Also waiting for July 2007!! ___ 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] Re: Elecraft Digest, Vol 37, Issue 19
The way Sperry/BAe used to do it (I assume they still do, but don't work there now). Use a methylated sprits (not sure of name in US) burner to remove the enamel - keep it in the blue part of the flame (the hottest and no soot) and it should come clean. Use a light rub with emery paper if you think it might be tarnished. Then tin. I'll ask some club colleagues this evening if they have other methods. On 9/5/07 09:05, [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] sent: Message: 9 Date: Tue, 08 May 2007 08:56:14 -0400 From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Advice needed on stripping enameled wire To: Gary McKelvie [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Gary, In the interest of obtaining a better tinning of the leads as an end result, I would suggest that you continue to 'waste solder' and use the solder blob method. While a lighter flame will remove the enamel, in my experience that technique leaves a residue that inhibits tinning the leads. It is the tinned lead that is the end goal - without proper tinned leads, one will end up with a malfunctioning transceiver. 73, Don W3FPR Gary McKelvie wrote: Hi to the list, Was wondering if anyone has any tips for stripping the enamel off the enameled wire for coils,transformers etc. I find that using the hot blob of solder method wasteful of solder and not 100%, so am currently using a mixture of a lighter flame and the solder technique which seems to be better than just the blob of solder method.. So is there a better way or how do you do them? 73 Gary G7USC -- Our society must make it right and possible for old people not to fear the young or be deserted by them, for the test of a civilization is the way that it cares for its helpless members. -Pearl S. Buck, Nobelist novelist (1892-1973) ___ 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] Advice needed on stripping enameled wire
In a recent message, David Ferrington [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote ... Use a methylated sprits (not sure of name in US) burner to remove the enamel - keep it in the blue part of the flame (the hottest and no soot) and it should come clean. Use a light rub with emery paper if you think it might be tarnished. Then tin. In the UK domestic radio TV industry we used to strip and tin Litz wire by heating it over a methylated spirit burner to red heat and then quickly dipping the wire into a small container of methylated spirit. This will likely work with enamelled copper wire. A word of caution though, this procedure makes the copper very soft and likely to break before it is tinned. -- David G4DMP Leeds, England, UK -- ___ 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] Elecraft Noise Generator
To the Elecrafters ! I have succeeded today in aligning the K2 40 meters transmitter (page 75 of the Manual) and I bought some time ago the N-Gen module to perform the Receiver pre-alignment. I have started assembling the N-Gen and I am in trouble concerning the way U1 (MAR-1) has to be mounted. On one side of this IC, there is a marking (01 with a dot below the number). The other side has no marking. The assembly manual (Rev C., Feb 3, 2004) explains how to identify the input lead and where it should be soldered, but is not clear about my question. Should the 01 marking be visible from the top or from the bottom side of the board ? My understanding is that it should be visible from the bottom of the PC. Thanks for your help Raymond METZGER Crespieres France K2 nber 5,636 ___ 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] Sloped AGC
K8CV: I found a neat option on the new Orion II that seems great cw. It is not in the manual. It is called slope or something like that. It is the last item in the RX menu. It has to do with the audio and normal is flat, probably for SSB ? But you can set the slope to 1.1 or 2.2 db and I first tried it on 80M noise and didn't seem to do a thing. Naturally I said oh well and later gave it a try on cw and a BIG difference. The signal seems to pop up out of the noise. Neat ... will my sometime this year K-3 have that ? Yes, see below. 73, Bill W4ZV KK7P: In the menu, you can set the following parameters for AGC: Attack time, Hold (Hang) time, Decay rate (in dB/sec for Fast and Slow), Threshold, and Slope. Slope sets the compression you get from AGC, whether you like everything above the threshold to be flat (S4 and 40 over S9 are the same level) or some sort of slope (2:1, 10:1 whatever) so stronger signals are somewhat louder. http://www.ac6rm.net/mailarchive/html/elecraft-list/2007-04/msg00935.html ___ 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] Re: Elecraft Digest, Vol 37, Issue 19
On 9/5/07 08:04, [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Mike, In the May RadCom, an IC-756 ProIII is 1989 pounds in the first advert. I think Icom kit is made in Japan not the USA and prices are in the main Controlled by the manufacturer. The exchange rate isn't so favourable either. I was referring to Tentec and other US made kit ... Check out the TT Orion II US and UK prices There is a HUGE difference ! Mike. ___ 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] Sloped AGC
You might be interested in the AGC input versus output performance data I took for the K2 and several other receivers. http://www.cliftonlaboratories.com/receiver_agc_curves.htm To some extent, the K2 already implements this feature. Whether this is an intentional design decision or a byproduct of other decisions made during the K2's design, I do not know. In my opinion, it is one of the reasons for the distinct K2 sound. Jack K8ZOA www.cliftonlaboratories.com Bill Tippett wrote: K8CV: I found a neat option on the new Orion II that seems great cw. It is not in the manual. It is called slope or something like that. It is the last item in the RX menu. It has to do with the audio and normal is flat, probably for SSB ? But you can set the slope to 1.1 or 2.2 db and I first tried it on 80M noise and didn't seem to do a thing. Naturally I said oh well and later gave it a try on cw and a BIG difference. The signal seems to pop up out of the noise. Neat ... will my sometime this year K-3 have that ? Yes, see below. 73, Bill W4ZV KK7P: In the menu, you can set the following parameters for AGC: Attack time, Hold (Hang) time, Decay rate (in dB/sec for Fast and Slow), Threshold, and Slope. Slope sets the compression you get from AGC, whether you like everything above the threshold to be flat (S4 and 40 over S9 are the same level) or some sort of slope (2:1, 10:1 whatever) so stronger signals are somewhat louder. http://www.ac6rm.net/mailarchive/html/elecraft-list/2007-04/msg00935.html ___ 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] Re: aging population
I take it you and Simon got your orders in on the day of the announcement, then? From what I've read, I'm wondering whether those like me who weren't so quick off the mark will see a K3 this side of Christmas. :) Julian, G4ILO Peter Dent wrote: .. PS: Also waiting for July 2007!! ___ 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] K3 Microphone question
The wiring for the K2 MD-2 microphone and the Heil headset has 5V applied to pin 1 through a 5.6k resistor. Will the K3 supply 5V on pin 1? Thanks, Barry (WK2S) ___ 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] Sloped AGC
K8ZOA: You might be interested in the AGC input versus output performance data I took for the K2 and several other receivers. http://www.cliftonlaboratories.com/receiver_agc_curves.htm To some extent, the K2 already implements this feature. Whether this is an intentional design decision or a byproduct of other decisions made during the K2's design, I do not know. In my opinion, it is one of the reasons for the distinct K2 sound. Jack that's very interesting information! Since the K3 is implementing AGC digitally via DSP rather than via analog means as in the K2, it it likely the K3's curve will be much more similar to the Racal 6790. It will be possible to change the slope beyond the threshold but there will still be a rather sharp transition right at the inflection point. Orion's original AGC was also very similar to the Racal 6790 curve...a constant rate up to the threshold and then perfectly flat beyond it. This was probably W8JI's major complaint about Orion. Ten-Tec recently added Sloped AGC after the new Yaesu rigs (9000 and 2000) rigs offered it. However, even with sloped AGC as implemented in all of these rigs, there will still be a very sharp transition right at the threshold, which the K2 does not exhibit in your graph. I believe a challenge for Lyle KK7P might be to implement sloped AGC in K3 using a multi-segmented approximation to the K2's very soft AGC curve. Since this might be possible in the DSP firmware, I feel it is certainly worth investigating! 73, Bill W4ZV ___ 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] Advice needed on stripping enameled wire
So is there a better way or how do you do them? I found that if you use a blob of solder with the biggest tip and you let that blob go to the bottom of the soldering tip then just slowy move the tip as you see small bubbles from at the edge of the soldering tip and add a little more solder when you see it start to pull away from the tip. It worked great on my K1 and made a smooth striping, the only problem I had with the toroids were when I wound them wrong. -- W2CVZ, Michael K1#2343 ___ 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] Sloped AGC
I wrote: I believe a challenge for Lyle KK7P might be to implement sloped AGC in K3 using a multi-segmented approximation to the K2's very soft AGC curve. If this is possible, I suggest simply calling it Soft versus Hard in the AGC Menu. I feel we run the risk of making things far too complex for most of us if there are too many menu variables. I treasure the elegant simplicity of the K2 and hope some of that can be retained in the K3, although I realize it is a much more complex rig. 73, Bill W4ZV ___ 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] #1 K2 improvement...
the K2 does not have two rcvrs for split operation. therefore, when working a DX-pedition, one pushes and holds the REV button to listen in on the pile-up, but can't do it well because the other VFO has the same narrow settings as the VFO listening to the DX station. (my) #1 K2 change to make it MUCH more usable is: firmware change such that separate XTAL and DSP filter settings follow with the chosen VFO. 73, Fred - KT5X ___ 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] Elecraft Noise Generator
Raymond, It will make no difference whether the dot is up or down. Look at the MAR-1 data sheet (www.minicircuits.com) and you will discover that both of the side terminals are ground connections. The input and output connections are opposite each other with the 01 (and angled lead) at the input. As long as the input lead is positioned correctly, all other leads will fall into the correct places whether the 01 is oriented up or down. 73, Don W3FPR Raymond METZGER wrote: To the Elecrafters ! I have succeeded today in aligning the K2 40 meters transmitter (page 75 of the Manual) and I bought some time ago the N-Gen module to perform the Receiver pre-alignment. I have started assembling the N-Gen and I am in trouble concerning the way U1 (MAR-1) has to be mounted. On one side of this IC, there is a marking (01 with a dot below the number). The other side has no marking. The assembly manual (Rev C., Feb 3, 2004) explains how to identify the input lead and where it should be soldered, but is not clear about my question. Should the 01 marking be visible from the top or from the bottom side of the board ? My understanding is that it should be visible from the bottom of the PC. Thanks for your help Raymond METZGER ___ 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] Musing on K3 Production and other things
Ladies and Gents As I was falling asleep last night dreaming of a k3(OK, stop laughing)...it occured to me that even the modular kit form of the rig is rather a radical departure from Elecraft's kit philosophy. Not bad, but made me wonder. Who makes the PC Boards? Who stuff's the boards? (or what ever you do to surface mount components) Who checks the boards? Who fixes the boards? Who puts the radios together for those people who want a assembled K3? Can they handle the number of orders? (over 1K now I've heard) Isn't that a lot of manufacturing overhead? Maybe not...not know the economy of such things. It would be interesting to knowjust curious. Anyone have any answers to these questions? Now for the other random thought. I wonder if Elecraft will have a board swap program? This is cool. Lets say something went wrong with my K3 and it was diagnosed to Board A. It would neat of they could cross ship that board and all the user has to do is a plug out/plug in situation and your rig is fixed. Then, Elecraft can refurbish the bad board and send it back out for a repair. I am sure there are some legal issues here, but I think that is what the computer industry has done for years...at least I know the Data General Corporation did that cause their fixed equipment was trash. At the end of DG...all you could get is old stock refurbished. But in the end, fixing a K3 is going to be very different than fixing a IC or a FT or a TS. Random thoughts are free...no charge. Lee - K0WA In our day and age it seems that Common Sense is in short supply. If you don't have any Common Sense - get some Common Sense and use it. If you can't find any Common Sense, ask for help from somebody who has some Common Sense. Is Common Sense devine? ___ 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] Roofing filters - on the other end
While the discussion on the roofing filters was flowing here, there was a huge talk over BS7H expedition on the cluster and DX reflectors, and a lot of dissatisfaction and criticism. The operators were blamed for the slow traffic and the RX bandwidth, sometimes taking a good part of the band. The skill of the members was put in a doubt until UR0MC, a member of N8S expedition explained: My opinion is that a wide split is not through operators fault. I don't know what kind of transceivers they used on BS7H, most probably the same as we used on N8S - PROIII. Please imagine how in the 15 KHz first filter input clutters up thousands stations with level 599+20db. All that nuisance going to DSP. Finally you can hear in the phones some modulated 'hunk'. And you can get some signal only at the end of this 'hunk'. After 2-3 QSO on this frequency grows a new 'hunk' and so on, and so on With K2 with 200 Hz filter pileups were processed much easier. The stations stood as pins, you have only to turn the knob and pick them up. The conclusion is: The expedition equipments sponsors must be changed :-) Translated by Val LZ1VB K2 2745, K3 ? ___ 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] Re: Elecraft Digest, Vol 37, Issue 19
Hi Bill and Geoff, thanks for your comments. I knew I was going to agitate the elecraft users sea but I believe we ham should share ideas, experiences and knowledge. I will see to reply to your comments. Message: 40 Date: Wed, 9 May 2007 08:04:39 +0100 From: Geoffrey Mackenzie-Kennedy [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Improvement changes to K2 and K1 transceivers To: Bill Coleman [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Elecraft Discussion List elecraft@mailman.qth.net, Giancarlo Moda I7SWX [EMAIL PROTECTED] Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset=Windows-1252; reply-type=response Bill, Gian might be suggesting the use of H-mode mixers to replace the TUF-1 mixer and NE602 product detector, but I have not asked him. The H-mode mixer has a much higher 3rd Order Intercept than either the TUF-1 or NE602, but I would have thought that the very good IMD performance of the H-mode mixer would be wasted in the K2. As I see it the IMD performance of the 2N5109 post mixer amplifier, variable bandwidth IF filter and MC1350 IF amplifier (and probably the front end bandpass filters) would become the weak link, and determine the overall IMD performance of a modified K2. Geoff you are right. Certainly the H-Mode Mixer has higher IMD performances then TUF-1 and NE602. Some friends in Italy had problems with K2 (and also K1) on 40meters during contests using good antennas. This is how the idea of trying to improve the K2 started. Certainly the worst performance is in the post mixer amplifier and this is the reason why the idea of the simple 2 xtal roofing filter was implemented. THe following bandpass xtal filter is protecting the IF and demodulator stages. Unless we do trials on changes we cannot really calculate if the improvements are really worthed or not ... but our is an hobby and if one like the risk he can do what he like... then he can go back to the original. If one is happy with his equipment it should not touch it ... the H-Mode mixer has been implemented and tested in many commercial transceiver, old and new ones. It Is possible to guess if improvements are worth or not ... but the adventure changes calls are always aroundhi To give you an idea, a friend in W-land tried the suggested mods for his TR7 ... the improvements were limited by the high phase noise of the PLL ...he then replaced with an AD9951 DDS ... and the big difference did show up right away. Another friend in Italy tested the H-Mode Mixer and checked the improvements possible in his IC706 first mixer mod. The original dynamic range at 20kHz tones spacing was 85-88dB, with the H-Mode implemented it went to 98dB. Replacing the original PLL with a xtal oscillator it went to 105dB... clearly phase noise differences between PLL and xtal oscillator. Although you may have not enough improvements because the stahge is limited by the phase noise ... I believe it is better than having both the mixer and the PLL limitations. Also the H-mode mixer requires a 50% duty cycle squarewave LO injection for best IMD performance which would require some modification of the K2's LO and BFO output circuitry, although this modification might not be necessary because of the poor (by comparison) IMD performance of the weak link mentioned above. NO. The H-Mode Squarer has a balance adjustment and you do not need to put your hands in the PLL. Also the HMM require 0dBm drive or less, so youmay have less spurs. The BFO 50-50 balance is not necessary as the LO frequency is low and the squarer gives quite a good 50/5o outputs. 73, Geoff GM4ESD On Wednesday, May 09, 2007 at 2:46 AM, Bill Coleman wrote: Part of the beauty of the K2 is that it is a very simple radio, superbly executed. (To paraphrase a comment K9AY said to me before I bought one) The K2 is certainly a simple and good radio. This does not means it has no limits. Nothing is perfect. Being only ham radio bands it helps a lot having narrow input band pass filters. Try to remove these and you will see something is changing. Listen to 40meter in US and then come to Europe and listen our 40 meters when a contest is on, CW or SSB. The K2 uses a TUF-1 balanced mixer with close attention to the injection levels and impedance matching. You'd be hard-pressed to improve the mixer performance for HF. The H-Mode Mixer is not sensitive to impedances terminations like a classic diodes d b mixer, particularly to the LO. Even the IF output when loaded with a variable load like a xtal filter does not reduce too much the IP3 (tests give between 5 to 10dBm changes.. i.e from +40dBm to +35 or +30dBm as second of type of filter.) Since the K2 is single-conversion, the primary crystal filter IS the roofing filter. The primary crystal filter is pretty darn good for CW or RTTY. Certainly the filter is a good filter but if IMD is reduced in the TUF-1 or more in the 2N5109 post mixer amplifier, the IF filter cannot do much.
Re: [Elecraft] Improvement changes to K2 and K1 transceivers
Hi Bill and Geoff, thanks for your comments. I am sorry I replied through the elecraft newsgroup. 73 Gian I7SWX --- Geoffrey Mackenzie-Kennedy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Bill, Gian might be suggesting the use of H-mode mixers to replace the TUF-1 mixer and NE602 product detector, but I have not asked him. The H-mode mixer has a much higher 3rd Order Intercept than either the TUF-1 or NE602, but I would have thought that the very good IMD performance of the H-mode mixer would be wasted in the K2. As I see it the IMD performance of the 2N5109 post mixer amplifier, variable bandwidth IF filter and MC1350 IF amplifier (and probably the front end bandpass filters) would become the weak link, and determine the overall IMD performance of a modified K2. Also the H-mode mixer requires a 50% duty cycle squarewave LO injection for best IMD performance which would require some modification of the K2's LO and BFO output circuitry, although this modification might not be necessary because of the poor (by comparison) IMD performance of the weak link mentioned above. 73, Geoff GM4ESD On Wednesday, May 09, 2007 at 2:46 AM, Bill Coleman wrote: On May 8, 2007, at 11:11 AM, Giancarlo Moda wrote: See for file: I7SWX possible changes to K2 and K1 RTX. It is possible you need to be a member. The documentation reports suggested changes: 1)Front-end mixer replacement and roofing filter addition. These mods have been implemented and tested by I0CG in his K2. Part of the beauty of the K2 is that it is a very simple radio, superbly executed. (To paraphrase a comment K9AY said to me before I bought one) The K2 uses a TUF-1 balanced mixer with close attention to the injection levels and impedance matching. You'd be hard-pressed to improve the mixer performance for HF. Since the K2 is single-conversion, the primary crystal filter IS the roofing filter. The primary crystal filter is pretty darn good for CW or RTTY. 2)Demodulator replacement. What would you do to replace the product detector? Since the dynamic range of the signals after the AGC of the IF stage is pretty limited, the NE602 is a pretty good choice. It wouldn't be easy to do better, especially at the price point for the K2. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.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
Smart Ways (RE: [Elecraft] Musing on K3 Production and other things)
Hiyas, As I was falling asleep last night dreaming of a k3(OK, stop laughing)... We're not laughing... we understand. So, you, too, eh? :P Who makes the PC Boards? Who stuff's the boards? (or what ever you do to surface mount components) Who checks the boards? Who fixes the boards? This is done through mosly automated pick-and-place machines, which also handle the soldering or things, and, if needed, the post-masking and waxing of boards. Even testing procedures can be automated, on a per-module (one machine setup per board) basis. It's just a fairly expensive process to set up, hence their (Elecraft's) requirement for a prepayment at this time.. this is needed to finance the production run setup costs. Once production is set up, it doesnt really add much to the overhead cost if they make 10,000 or 50,000 boards, the machines will just have to work a lil bit longer. Tis much like the printing biz. The first in-print copy costs a fortune, the rest are free :) Who puts the radios together for those people who want a assembled K3? Good question, I assume they are or will be hiring assembly staff for this. Dont forget that for their kit biz, they also need a lot of staff, for picking all the right parts, stuffing them into the lil envelopes, etc etc. Can they handle the number of orders? (over 1K now I've heard) I think they can, it also depends on their pre-prod cost base, and their agreements with the production facility. See above. Isn't that a lot of manufacturing overhead? Yes, in theory it is, as they were a kit biz. However... if they do NOT do it this way, they'll be getting a truckload of I cant get my K3 to work! reports every day, which might lead to less orders (the damn things is unbuildable!!) which might lead to Lisa and Wayne applying for burger-flippin duty at the local Mac. So, given the risks with such a complex (and thus hard to build at home) product, they go the half-prod(uct) way, which is smart. Yes, I personally *can* do SMD, as I do this for many projects as a hobbyist microelectronics freak, so could assemble the modules myself, but hey.Most people can't, so Elecraft chose the right way. And, as said... setting up such a line is the expensive part, once that is done, they can roll as many as needed. So, SEND IN YOUR ORDER NOW, AND YOU MIGHT WIN! Win What? Dunno, a beer with Eric, Wayne's sig on the lid of your K3, or even a movie-date with Lisa :) Cheers, Fred PA4YBR/KA4YBR ___ 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] Musing on K3 Production and other things
Flextronics. *runs away, screaming* --f -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Bill Tippett Sent: woensdag 9 mei 2007 15:42 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Musing on K3 Production and other things K0WA: Who makes the PC Boards? Who stuff's the boards? (or what ever you do to surface mount components) Who checks the boards? Who fixes the boards? Probably someone like Solectron, Flextronics Sanmina or a dozen other companies who manufacture loaded boards. It's most definitely not Elecraft. Who puts the radios together for those people who want a assembled K3? Could be Elecraft or a sub-contractor. My guess would be Elecraft to maintain tight QA on the rig and do final calibration and testing. Can they handle the number of orders? (over 1K now I've heard) This is the kind of problem most companies would love to have! It is NOT a problem to lose any sleep over. I wonder if Elecraft will have a board swap program? I hope so. Modular construction and upgradable firmware are two reasons I would not lose sleep about ordering early. It will not cost much to return a module for rework or repair. At 8 pounds it won't even cost much to return the entire rig if necessary (compare that to the boatanchor weight of the Icom and Yaesu behemoths). BTW don't forget that warranties are doubled when using certain types of credit cards. I've done this for years and the claim process is very simple. Keep you sales receipt and credit card slip! 73, Bill W4ZV ___ 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] Roofing filters - on the other end
Hi Val, Purely from your description, operators' skills could be another factor. 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC - Original Message - From: Val [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, May 09, 2007 9:37 PM Subject: [Elecraft] Roofing filters - on the other end While the discussion on the roofing filters was flowing here, there was a huge talk over BS7H expedition on the cluster and DX reflectors, and a lot of dissatisfaction and criticism. The operators were blamed for the slow traffic and the RX bandwidth, sometimes taking a good part of the band. The skill of the members was put in a doubt until UR0MC, a member of N8S expedition explained: My opinion is that a wide split is not through operators fault. I don't know what kind of transceivers they used on BS7H, most probably the same as we used on N8S - PROIII. Please imagine how in the 15 KHz first filter input clutters up thousands stations with level 599+20db. All that nuisance going to DSP. Finally you can hear in the phones some modulated 'hunk'. And you can get some signal only at the end of this 'hunk'. After 2-3 QSO on this frequency grows a new 'hunk' and so on, and so on With K2 with 200 Hz filter pileups were processed much easier. The stations stood as pins, you have only to turn the knob and pick them up. The conclusion is: The expedition equipments sponsors must be changed :-) Translated by Val LZ1VB K2 2745, K3 ? ___ 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] Sloped AGC
I have two DSP-based receivers, a Watkins-Johnson HF-1000 and a Kenwood TS-870, but both are upstairs and attached to my radio desk with about six bazillion wires and the test gear is all in the basement. So, one of these days, I'll drag one or the other of these to the basement and run some tests. Jack Bill Tippett wrote: K8ZOA: You might be interested in the AGC input versus output performance data I took for the K2 and several other receivers. http://www.cliftonlaboratories.com/receiver_agc_curves.htm To some extent, the K2 already implements this feature. Whether this is an intentional design decision or a byproduct of other decisions made during the K2's design, I do not know. In my opinion, it is one of the reasons for the distinct K2 sound. Jack that's very interesting information! Since the K3 is implementing AGC digitally via DSP rather than via analog means as in the K2, it it likely the K3's curve will be much more similar to the Racal 6790. It will be possible to change the slope beyond the threshold but there will still be a rather sharp transition right at the inflection point. Orion's original AGC was also very similar to the Racal 6790 curve...a constant rate up to the threshold and then perfectly flat beyond it. This was probably W8JI's major complaint about Orion. Ten-Tec recently added Sloped AGC after the new Yaesu rigs (9000 and 2000) rigs offered it. However, even with sloped AGC as implemented in all of these rigs, there will still be a very sharp transition right at the threshold, which the K2 does not exhibit in your graph. I believe a challenge for Lyle KK7P might be to implement sloped AGC in K3 using a multi-segmented approximation to the K2's very soft AGC curve. Since this might be possible in the DSP firmware, I feel it is certainly worth investigating! 73, Bill W4ZV ___ 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] K2 - KRC2 - Yaesu FL7000 Amp
Hi Raj. This is from the FAQ page: Do I need the KRC2 option for my future K3 to band switch my non-Elecraft amp automatically? At least initially. We may provide other popular control protocols later. Is there a relay output from the K3 to switch on an external amplifier? If so, is it done via the accessory connector on the rear panel? Yes; it has its own connector (KEY OUT) on the rear panel. The KEY OUT line is a MOSFET, open-drain (equivalent to open collector in a BJT device). It can handle a lot of current AND a lot of voltage. Exact specs TBD. 73 and Thanks! Greg AB7R On Wed, 9 May 2007 09:20:32 -0400 Rajiv Dewan, N2RD [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Is any one using a K2 along with a Yaesu FL-7000 amp and auto- switching the amp thru a KRC2? Any guesses if this work with K3? Raj, N2RD -- Rajiv Dewan, N2RD [EMAIL PROTECTED] FN13fc -- ___ 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] Musing on K3 Production and other things
Lee, Having been on the sidelines observing the manufacturing process for boards in the past (OK, I left that 10 years ago, but the principles are the same), I can say that there are vendors who will do any and all of the work you ask questions about. The quality of the end product will depend heavily on the level of Elecraft's requirements with any vendor and with Elecraft's quality inspection on the incoming boards, assemblies, etc. as well as attention to the final testing processes. The end-of-assembly-line test setup is an important item in the overall scheme of things, but the module level testing is also an important piece of the overall equation. These pieces of the process can only be defined and put into place by the engineers at Elecraft, and it does take a lot of time and energy to get all those ducks in a row. Yes, the K3 design should be complete (except for some firmware tweaking), but all the manufacturing pieces of the process are not yet completed, so we have to wait until July before we can have a K3 in our hands. We can expect everyone at Elecraft to be busy until then working with the board vendors to assure that all steps happen properly. If Elecaft's past reputation for quality is any indication of the future, we can expect that the K3 will be also be a quality product. I have no information about how K3 repairs will be handled, but I believe we can expect the same quality level for repairs that we expect from new, whether that be by refurbishing or replacement or some combination of the two. One advantage of SMD is that refurb and retest can result in a refurbished board that is indistinguishable from a new one, and that has not always been the case with thru-hole boards. 73, Don W3FPR Lee Buller wrote: Ladies and Gents As I was falling asleep last night dreaming of a k3(OK, stop laughing)...it occured to me that even the modular kit form of the rig is rather a radical departure from Elecraft's kit philosophy. Not bad, but made me wonder. Who makes the PC Boards? Who stuff's the boards? (or what ever you do to surface mount components) Who checks the boards? Who fixes the boards? Who puts the radios together for those people who want a assembled K3? Can they handle the number of orders? (over 1K now I've heard) Isn't that a lot of manufacturing overhead? Maybe not...not know the economy of such things. It would be interesting to knowjust curious. Anyone have any answers to these questions? Now for the other random thought. I wonder if Elecraft will have a board swap program? This is cool. Lets say something went wrong with my K3 and it was diagnosed to Board A. It would neat of they could cross ship that board and all the user has to do is a plug out/plug in situation and your rig is fixed. Then, Elecraft can refurbish the bad board and send it back out for a repair. I am sure there are some legal issues here, but I think that is what the computer industry has done for years...at least I know the Data General Corporation did that cause their fixed equipment was trash. At the end of DG...all you could get is old stock refurbished. But in the end, fixing a K3 is going to be very different than fixing a IC or a FT or a TS. Random thoughts are free...no charge. Lee - K0WA In our day and age it seems that Common Sense is in short supply. If you don't have any Common Sense - get some Common Sense and use it. If you can't find any Common Sense, ask for help from somebody who has some Common Sense. Is Common Sense devine? ___ 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] Musing on K3 Production and other things
At 02:03 PM 5/9/07, you wrote: Flextronics. *runs away, screaming* What does that mean? Ever heard of these companies? HP, Dell, Microsoft, Nokia, Motorola, ABB, Siemens...even Philips in your home country. http://www.flextronics.com/en/portals/0/presentations/q32003/sld016.htm 73, Bill W4ZV ___ 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] Solar Controller Kits - Field Day
Hi Field Day is just around the corner, get those extra points by operating with solar power. I still have a quantity of my solar controller kits for sale. There are two versions. A low power version good up to 40 watts and a high power version for up to 200 watts. The controller kit is an analog design that does not generate any RF noise. The kit comes with a silk screened and solder masked fiberglass circuit board and all parts needed to build the controller. You will need to supply the box to mount it into. There are 6 pages of documentation and application notes. The controller is designed to work with almost any size solar panel up to the limits stated above. It is designed to work with 12 volt Sealed lead Acid (gel Cell) or flooded lead acid batteries only. It will not work with NiCad or NiMh batteries. (There is also a 6 volt version) The low power version will power a KX1, K1 or QRP K2 with a properly sized panel and battery (5-15 watts). The high power version will supply enough power for a K2/100. (50-150 watts) The controller kits are $20 for the low power version or $35 for two kits with one set of documentation. The high power version is $30 or $55 for two kits with one set of documentation. Check or money order only I do not accept credit cards or PayPal. US postage is included. Order from Don Brown 19132 Falls Creek Drive Flint, Texas 75762 Harbor freight and Northern Tool usually have solar panels of various sizes at good prices. Thanks Don ___ 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 - KRC2 - Yaesu FL7000 Amp
I don't know what the FL7000 requires, but it can probably be produced simply from the Accessory connector. From: FISCHER,GREG [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed, 09 May 2007 08:07:12 -0500 Hi Raj. This is from the FAQ page: Do I need the KRC2 option for my future K3 to band switch my non-Elecraft amp automatically? At least initially. We may provide other popular control protocols later. Note pins 3, 9, 13, and 14 on the Accessory connector. This means you DON'T NEED the KRC2 for many purposes. For instance, I want to have my IC2KL follow the band switching on my K3. The KRC2 doesn't provide the necessary voltage level signal without external components but a simple MUX and resistor network connected to those four pins on the K3 will do that. Many setups actually use BCD encoded band signals, just like the K3 supplies. The KRC2 is necessary for the K2, since the only band data is on the AUXBUS, but it's probably not necessary for the K3 for most uses. 73, doug From the FAQ: What is the pin-out for the DE-15 Accessory connector? 1 - DIG0 FSK? software definable TTL digital input (5V MAX!) 2 - AUXBUS 3 - BAND 1 Output (TTL) 4 - PTT input (in parallel with MIC jack PTT ) 5 - COMMON (via 100 uH choke) 6 - DIG Out 0 (software definable TTL digital output) 7 - DIG1 Input software definable TTL digital input (5V MAX!) 8 - POWER (pull to ground with open collector or switch to turn K3 ON) 9 - BAND 2 Output (TTL) 10 - KEY input (in parallel with KEY jack on rear apron) 11 - DIG Out 1 (software definable TTL digital output) 12 - COMMON (via 100 uH choke) 13 - BAND 0 Output (TTL) 14 - BAND 3 Output (TTL) 15 - ALC input (0 to +5V MAX) ___ 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] Roofing filters - on the other end
Surely the best way to deal with this is to use the attenuator to improve the strong signal IMD performance, this applies to all radios, Analog and DSP based The BS7H CW Pileups were just dreadful. 73 Brendan EI6IZ On Wed, 2007-05-09 at 16:37 +0300, Val wrote: While the discussion on the roofing filters was flowing here, there was a huge talk over BS7H expedition on the cluster and DX reflectors, and a lot of dissatisfaction and criticism. The operators were blamed for the slow traffic and the RX bandwidth, sometimes taking a good part of the band. The skill of the members was put in a doubt until UR0MC, a member of N8S expedition explained: My opinion is that a wide split is not through operators fault. I don't know what kind of transceivers they used on BS7H, most probably the same as we used on N8S - PROIII. Please imagine how in the 15 KHz first filter input clutters up thousands stations with level 599+20db. All that nuisance going to DSP. Finally you can hear in the phones some modulated 'hunk'. And you can get some signal only at the end of this 'hunk'. After 2-3 QSO on this frequency grows a new 'hunk' and so on, and so on With K2 with 200 Hz filter pileups were processed much easier. The stations stood as pins, you have only to turn the knob and pick them up. The conclusion is: The expedition equipments sponsors must be changed :-) Translated by Val LZ1VB K2 2745, K3 ? ___ 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: Smart Ways (RE: [Elecraft] Musing on K3 Production and other things)
Ehh... and to clarify something: I would assume that this is something Elecraft isn't setting up *themselves*, but instead a manufacturing facility partner. They do have all the machinery (and logistics) required for such a project, and, indeed, consider the K3 as just another project. --f -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Fred N. van Kempen Sent: woensdag 9 mei 2007 16:03 To: Lee Buller; Elecraft Reflector Subject: Smart Ways (RE: [Elecraft] Musing on K3 Production and other things) Hiyas, As I was falling asleep last night dreaming of a k3(OK, stop laughing)... We're not laughing... we understand. So, you, too, eh? :P Who makes the PC Boards? Who stuff's the boards? (or what ever you do to surface mount components) Who checks the boards? Who fixes the boards? This is done through mosly automated pick-and-place machines, which also handle the soldering or things, and, if needed, the post-masking and waxing of boards. Even testing procedures can be automated, on a per-module (one machine setup per board) basis. It's just a fairly expensive process to set up, hence their (Elecraft's) requirement for a prepayment at this time.. this is needed to finance the production run setup costs. Once production is set up, it doesnt really add much to the overhead cost if they make 10,000 or 50,000 boards, the machines will just have to work a lil bit longer. Tis much like the printing biz. The first in-print copy costs a fortune, the rest are free :) Who puts the radios together for those people who want a assembled K3? Good question, I assume they are or will be hiring assembly staff for this. Dont forget that for their kit biz, they also need a lot of staff, for picking all the right parts, stuffing them into the lil envelopes, etc etc. Can they handle the number of orders? (over 1K now I've heard) I think they can, it also depends on their pre-prod cost base, and their agreements with the production facility. See above. Isn't that a lot of manufacturing overhead? Yes, in theory it is, as they were a kit biz. However... if they do NOT do it this way, they'll be getting a truckload of I cant get my K3 to work! reports every day, which might lead to less orders (the damn things is unbuildable!!) which might lead to Lisa and Wayne applying for burger-flippin duty at the local Mac. So, given the risks with such a complex (and thus hard to build at home) product, they go the half-prod(uct) way, which is smart. Yes, I personally *can* do SMD, as I do this for many projects as a hobbyist microelectronics freak, so could assemble the modules myself, but hey.Most people can't, so Elecraft chose the right way. And, as said... setting up such a line is the expensive part, once that is done, they can roll as many as needed. So, SEND IN YOUR ORDER NOW, AND YOU MIGHT WIN! Win What? Dunno, a beer with Eric, Wayne's sig on the lid of your K3, or even a movie-date with Lisa :) Cheers, Fred PA4YBR/KA4YBR ___ 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] Musing on K3 Production and other things
On Wed, 9 May 2007, Bill Tippett wrote: At 02:03 PM 5/9/07, you wrote: Flextronics. *runs away, screaming* What does that mean? Ever heard of these companies? HP, Dell, Microsoft, Nokia, Motorola, ABB, Siemens...even Philips in your home country. http://www.flextronics.com/en/portals/0/presentations/q32003/sld016.htm I'm not sure if you're talking about the same Flextronics (I haven't done my research on this) but companies who work with large volume customers don't always play nice with small customers. That list doesn't sound like a hobbyist or a start-up would get any call backs. Sorry for going off topic. IHTFP -- 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
[Elecraft] K3 Pie in the Sky(?) Wish List
K3 Pie in the Sky(?) Wish List - feel free to add to this 1) Remote head for mobile and other applications 2) +/- 600 Watt Amp 3) +/- 600 Watt Amp with Tuner Additionally, I'll like to compliment Elecraft for creating a great looking rig. It seems as if a potentially complex set of functions have combined in an accessible manner while maintaining a classic amateur radio look. Regards, Dick - KA5KKT/4 ___ 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] K3 Pie in the Sky(?) Wish List
K3 Pie in the Sky(?) Wish List - feel free to add to this 1) Remote head for mobile and other applications 2) +/- 600 Watt Amp 3) +/- 600 Watt Amp with Tuner 4) Internal PS in ATU area Additionally, I'll like to compliment Elecraft for creating a great looking rig. It seems as if a potentially complex set of functions have combined in an accessible manner while maintaining a classic amateur radio look. Regards, Dick - KA5KKT/4 ___ 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] FS KX-1 in Europe
FS a complete station boxed in a 1060 Pelicase. 3-band KX-1 (#1260)with KXAT-1, mini-paddle from Palm Radio, earbuds, rolls of wire. Works as specs. 72 to all, -- ___ Surf the Web in a faster, safer and easier way: Download Opera 9 at http://www.opera.com Powered by Outblaze ___ 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] K3 - Rack Mount?
Wonder if there is demand enough for rack mount kit for the K3 and future accessories? Dwight Agnew - AI4II 9335 King George Dr. Manassas, VA U.S.A. W4OVH arc WW4BR arc NoVaQRP ___ 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] K3 Pie in the Sky(?) Wish List
K3 Pie in the Sky(?) Wish List - feel free to add to this 1) Remote head for mobile and other applications 2) External +/- 600 Watt Amp - 12v 3) External +/- 600 Watt Amp with Tuner - 12v 4) Rack Mount 5) Internal PS in place of ATU 6) Remote ATU I'll compliment Elecraft for creating a great looking rig. A complex set of functions have been combined in an accessible and attractive manner while maintaining a classic amateur radio look. Regards, Dick - KA5KKT/4 ___ 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] K3 Pie In the Sky(?) Wish List
Plus an internal SSTV Incoder/Decoder -- W2CVZ, Michael K1#2343 ___ 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] Ultimatic keying in KX1/K1?
Thanks to all who offered comments I went with an N0XAS PicoKeyer (hamgadgets.com) - this is pretty much the same keyer as the RockMite upgrade chip, in a small stand-alone board.Easy build, works great and has Ultimatic mode.Still, someday in some future rom upgrade it would be nice to have Ultimatic keying on board in the K* rigs.73,Mike ___ 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] Ultimatic keying in KX1/K1?
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Still, someday in some future rom upgrade it would be nice to have Ultimatic keying on board in the K* rigs. If anyone would like to refresh my memory on Ultimatic keyers, I'd be happy to read it. I remember a QST article at least 200 years ago about it, I think it might have been on the cover too. I know about Iambic, I have an Iambic-A keying type [and O+ blood type]. Iambic-B is hard for me, however I don't really know the technical difference between them, I just know that B adds dits I didn't send. Given the amount of traffic on the Elecraft list these days, it would be good [and kind to everyone else who undoubtedly all know the answer] to reply to me direct :-) 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2007 CQP Oct 6-7 - www.cqp.org ___ 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] Ultimatic keying in KX1/K1?
Fred Jensen wrote: If anyone would like to refresh my memory on Ultimatic keyers, I'd be happy to read it. http://www.ac6rm.net/mailarchive/html/elecraft-list/2005-02/msg00563.html -- GB 73's KA5OAI Sam Morgan ___ 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] K3 Pie In the Sky(?) Wish List
Plus an internal SSTV Incoder/Decoder And of course the ability to send SSTV with your paddles just like RTTY and PSK31. :-) Craig NZ0R ___ 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] K3 Pie In the Sky(?) Wish List
And of course the ability to send SSTV with your paddles just like RTTY and PSK31. :-) ...my question to Michael was 'how would the picture be displayed?' -- never thought about asking how it would be generated. Mark AD5SS ___ 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] K3 Pie In the Sky(?) Wish List
On May 9, 2007, at 3:31 PM, Mark Bayern wrote: And of course the ability to send SSTV with your paddles just like RTTY and PSK31. :-) ...my question to Michael was 'how would the picture be displayed?' -- never thought about asking how it would be generated. Well, there is this electrode array that attaches to your scalp. It provides direct stimulation of the visual center of your brain. In fact, they are working on an entire control suite. It lets Elecraft do away with the cost of a front panel too. Much lighter. 73 de Brian, WB6RQN Brian Lloyd - brian HYPHEN wb6rqn AT lloyd DOT 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] Can someone take a look at my torroids?
I I'm having trouble making these torroids look exactly right. I have the right number of turns for 40 15 meters, but the spacing isn't perfect. Can someone check them out and let me know how they look? http://picasaweb.google.com/joseph.durnal/ElecraftK1TransceiverBuild/photo#5062707840213156626 I don't want to solder them if they won't work. Thanks, Joe - NE3R ___ 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] Can someone take a look at my torroids?
Those look fine to me. You can probably move the windings around a bit to make the spacing more uniform if you wish, even after they have been installed. Bob, N7XY On May 9, 2007, at 4:35 PM, Joseph M. Durnal wrote: I I'm having trouble making these torroids look exactly right. I have the right number of turns for 40 15 meters, but the spacing isn't perfect. Can someone check them out and let me know how they look? http://picasaweb.google.com/joseph.durnal/ ElecraftK1TransceiverBuild/photo#5062707840213156626 I don't want to solder them if they won't work. Thanks, Joe - NE3R ___ 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] When Filters Don't Help...
Then it might be time again, for the tried and true - NOTCH FILTER and IF SHIFT capability. Does the K3 have these? Fred, N3CSY Need Mail bonding? Go to the Yahoo! Mail QA for great tips from Yahoo! Answers users. http://answers.yahoo.com/dir/?link=listsid=396546091 ___ 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] More K3 musings
Well, what a couple of weeks it has been! Found out that I have 'roofing filters' that I didn't know I had. Absolutely confirmed my aversion to 'contesting' --- much prefer to paint and watch it dry. So what is there for me --- well, in the short term, I've just ordered a a Z100 from Jack Smith to put on top of the K2 to give me confidence that I'm making life as easy as possible for the other fellow. Will I buy a K3? Of course! and Why? because I want to hear KPH again before I pull the big switch --- and what will I buy? K3/10, KBPF3 and wait for the variable filters --- To each his own, and all kudos to the Aptos team for making it possible. Bill / VK4SQ ___ 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] When Filters Don't Help...
Yes. 73, Eric WA6HHQ Fred (FL) wrote: Then it might be time again, for the tried and true - NOTCH FILTER and IF SHIFT capability. Does the K3 have these? Fred, N3CSY Need Mail bonding? Go to the Yahoo! Mail QA for great tips from Yahoo! Answers users. http://answers.yahoo.com/dir/?link=listsid=396546091 ___ 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] K3 Pie In the Sky(?) Wish List
On Wed, 9 May 2007, Brian Lloyd wrote: Well, there is this electrode array that attaches to your scalp. It provides direct stimulation of the visual center of your brain. In fact, they are working on an entire control suite. It lets Elecraft do away with the cost of a front panel too. Much lighter. Probably a good thing that the K3 doesn't cover the porno-bands. Thom www.baltimorehon.com/Home of the Baltimore Lexicon www.tlchost.net/hosting/ Web Hosting as low as 3.49/month ___ 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] Can someone take a look at my torroids?
Thanks everyone, I didn't get around soldering them tonight, or even removing the enamel, 10 meters was open, it hasn't been this open in a while, it was nice to work several technicians. BTW - I'm trying to keep a good photo record of my progress http://picasaweb.google.com/joseph.durnal/ElecraftK1TransceiverBuild With some commentary http://cryptojoe.blogspot.com/search/label/Elecraft%20K1%20Build 73 Joe NE3R On 5/10/07, Tom Hammond N0SS [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Joe: They look just FINE! 73, Tom Hammond N0Ss At 04:35 PM 5/9/2007, you wrote: I I'm having trouble making these torroids look exactly right. I have the right number of turns for 40 15 meters, but the spacing isn't perfect. Can someone check them out and let me know how they look? http://picasaweb.google.com/joseph.durnal/ElecraftK1TransceiverBuild/photo#5062707840213156626 I don't want to solder them if they won't work. Thanks, Joe - NE3R ___ 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
