Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
Volker, It only makes sense to buy factory built if you buy the K3 with all the possible modules fitted otherwise you will be dis-assembling the radio to fit other modules at some later date. A design philosophy of the K3 is being able to buy the basic unit and upgrade as you can afford it or as the dollar/euro/sterling rate becomes more favourable! Field upgrading is just an extension of the kit rationale. I bought #145 as a kit back in July 2007 and had to wait many months for the second receiver which required a significant refit. Being an early unit I have fitted several uprades and have had to replace a faulty main dsp board too; knowing how it all went together in the first place made all this straightforward and easy to do. So if you have the time and don't have visual or physical impairment it's not a problem at all. There's the extra security of knowing that the finished unit has been tested in Aptos but even if/when a problem does arise you will be talked through it step by step and receive board swaps as necessary in a manner probably unique to Elecraft. My DSP board problem was a minor one linked to the second rx and was sorted quickly and efficiently but it did require me to swap out a couple of boards which were sent from Aptos. We are after all 'Radio Amateurs' so we shouldn't really have a problem with screwdrivers and ESD mats, should we?? 73, Stewart Rolfe, GW0ETF quot;Volker Wächterquot; wrote: Hello @ all, I do not know what most of you did. As many others, I am also interested in a K3 Trx. what do you recommend ? do-it yourself an purchase a kit, or buy it ready for use ? as far as I know, elecreft points out that a complete ESD equipment is strictly recommended. what did you do ? 73 de Volker, DD1VW __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/kit-building-or-buy-ready-for-use-tp4195967p4197200.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
I'd recommend the kit too, for the reasons others have stated. The cost of the electrostatic mat, I seem to recall, was about 20 Euro. The only test equipment you need is a DMM, an accurate power meter and (optionally but very useful) a calibrated signal generator for doing the S meter calibration. The DMM I used was about 10 Euro, and perfectly adequate for this application. For the power calibration I used the Elecraft DL1. Though only rated for 20W it is perfectly capable of taking 50W for a couple of seconds at a time - long enough to get the voltage reading from which you can calculate the power. This is probably more accurate than the average ham-grade power meter. For the receiver alignment I used the Elecraft XG1. This has now been replaced by the XG2 which covers 3 bands and is a bit more expensive. Even if you have to buy all 3 items of test equipment plus the anti-static mat the cost will still be about half the money you saved buying the kit version. - Julian, G4ILO. K2 #392 K3 #222. * G4ILO's Shack - http://www.g4ilo.com * KComm - http://www.g4ilo.com/kcomm.html * KTune - http://www.g4ilo.com/ktune.html -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/kit-building-or-buy-ready-for-use-tp4195967p4197216.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
Hi Volker, buy the kit - it is absolutely no problem to build it, you should of course use an ESD equipment but it's worth to buy one. Write me a PN and we can discuss it in german. I built two K3s, it was a lot of fun and they work 100%. Martin DK4XL K3 #2199 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/kit-building-or-buy-ready-for-use-tp4195967p4197220.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] kit building or buy ready for use
I built my K3. I enjoyed the process tremendously. While it's not a true kit per se, assembling it one's self does have some benefits. Apart from saving a few bucks - especially if you already have the tools as I did - you get to see how well the rig was designed. It also instills some confidence in trouble shooting or replacing components should that need arise. In my case, I did not have any problems after assembly. The radio worked as it should, and passed all calibration procedures without incident. Only months after assembly did I have a component fail; Elecraft was very quick to ship a replacement. I did not have to send the radio back to perform the repair as I was already familiar and comfortable with assembly and disassembly to perform the swap myself. 73 and Merry Christmas, James K2QI __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KANT3- FREE
I installed the KAT3 Internal ATU in my K3 during the blizzard of 2009. I now have the KANT3 Antenna Input Module that I no longer need. If anyone needs one, I'll ship it to you - CONUS ONLY - at no charge to you. 73 Merry Christmas, H Cary, K4TM LYNCHBURG, VA K3-100 #3491, K2-100 #4991 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Spurious
Hi I've just done some tests with my k3 sn 3759 and have been told I have a spurious signal 600Hz above my tx frequency. It was at first heard with my amp on but I switched out the amp and ran the k3 with 100w and my note was still there. Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. My tests were on cw, and my tester was less than 1/2 mile away. Any ideas!!! Ken..G0ORH Sent from my iPhone __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net results (12-20-09)
Phil, the Reflector is getting out of control. While waiting for the SSB net to begin I began reading mail on the Reflector. When I next looked at the time, and listened, the net was over. I need a Q-signal for Reflector interference, say QRI, perhaps. Sorry I didn't make it, Dave, W8OV On 12/20/2009 9:52 PM, Phil and Christina wrote: The net today had 19 participants again. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
Ken I wonder how big the signal was in his receiver? Sounds like it could be overload at the other end. Do you have another rig in your shack that you could do the same test with a local ? John G4ZTR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ken Chandler Sent: 21 December 2009 15:13 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Spurious Hi I've just done some tests with my k3 sn 3759 and have been told I have a spurious signal 600Hz above my tx frequency. It was at first heard with my amp on but I switched out the amp and ran the k3 with 100w and my note was still there. Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. My tests were on cw, and my tester was less than 1/2 mile away. Any ideas!!! Ken..G0ORH Sent from my iPhone __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4706 (20091221) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4706 (20091221) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
I am getting something similar, Ken, but on 4455kHz. That is 696kHz above 3759kHz, with all powers from 0.1 to 100W. It is quite strong on my local receiver but I don't know how far it is radiating. 73 de David G4DMP In a recent message, Ken Chandler g0...@sky.com wrote ... I've just done some tests with my k3 sn 3759 and have been told I have a spurious signal 600Hz above my tx frequency. It was at first heard with my amp on but I switched out the amp and ran the k3 with 100w and my note was still there. Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. My tests were on cw, and my tester was less than 1/2 mile away. Any ideas!!! -- +- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -+ | David M Pratt G4DMP, Kippax, Leeds, UK | | K1 #1117; KX1 #0052; K2 #1583; K3 #0186 | +- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -+ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] kit building or buy ready for use
Phil, You will probably get a lot of opinions both ways. Those who spent the extra money for factory built probably did so for good reason, and are glad they did. Most (nearly all?) who opted to do the kit, are probably just as glad they saved the $200! All I can add is that doing the kit is not nearly as bad as you might think. After all, it's more of an assembly process than a build. There is no comparison to to a K3 kit vs. a K2 kit. There is no soldering--only interconnection of various boards. However, if you feel you are a little light on dexterity, which can be for a number of good reasons, then by all means spend the extra money for a factory built unit. The K3 is very well made, and everything fits together very neatly. Only one or two steps really require anything that might be considered manipulation, and those steps are really very well described in the manual. Early kits may have had a slightly more difficult process, but with 3,000 of these rigs out there now, I think any such issues have been resolved. In my view, the only difficult part was making sure that the three or four interconnecting cables inside the rig were properly seated. Otherwise, it is pretty much a matter of just mounting boards, and putting in a bunch of screws. It's basically modular construction--just like assembly of a computer--maybe not even that difficult. Dave W7AQK - Original Message - From: Phil Hystad k7...@comcast.net To: w...@msn.com Cc: 'Elecraft Reflector' elecraft@mailman.qth.net; 'Dave Hachadorian' k...@arrl.net Sent: Sunday, December 20, 2009 7:40 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] kit building or buy ready for use I would like to see more comments from K3 kit builders to counter these points being made here. I am also planning on getting the K3 and there is only one thing that is holding up my order right now and that is trying to figure out when I can spend the time to put it together. But, I am also a little bit wondering if the cost differential of kit versus factory built is worth the learning experience when you contrast that with the hassles of potential problems. If the kit cost versus factory built cost were different by a wider margin it would be an easier decision. phil, K7PEH On Dec 20, 2009, at 6:27 PM, Ed Muns wrote: This is an important point and one that should be considered in the decision to get the factory-built K3 or the kit. Actually the sub-assemblies are tested as individual units. But the set of sub-assemblies in a kit have not been tested together as a system. The factory system tests are more rigorous than what most of us can do with the kit and certainly more rigorous than the kit instructions provide. And, while rare, it is possible that sub-assembly tolerances can combine in a way that causes a system problem. (However, most, if not all, of such system issues are resolved via email or phone with Elecraft support.) So the key considerations are money saved and K3 learning vs. the value of the factory system testing. Of course, you can always send your kit K3 to the factory for the system test but that is likely to be more expensive than getting the factory-built unit in the first place. Ed - W0YK --- Ed Muns Muns Vineyard - www.munsvineyard.com FaceBook - www.facebook.com/munsvineyard K6LL wrote: I recommend that you buy it factory-built, at least for the basic unit. I have two K3's. One I bought second-hand, and one I built. The one I built had a missing major part, which caused a delay, and then didn't work when it was finished. It turned out that there was an unsoldered component on the motherboard, which was undetectable in factory subassembly testing. Although you save $200 by building it yourself, you really don't learn much in the process, and you have to spend about $25 for an ESD mat. If you have to ship it back to the factory, it will cost you $50 in the USA, and much more from overseas. There is no substitute for the final system tests that the factory-assembled units get. Subassemblies are not tested 100%. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help:
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
Hi My previous was the FT2000D which is sold. I had no problems with that radio or any other radio. At 100w at my tester the signal strength is 60db over s9 on my TX freq, es 10db over s9 600hz up!! Ken..G0ORH -Original Message- From: John Lemay [mailto:j...@carltonhouse.eclipse.co.uk] Sent: 21 December 2009 15:34 To: 'Ken Chandler'; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Spurious Ken I wonder how big the signal was in his receiver? Sounds like it could be overload at the other end. Do you have another rig in your shack that you could do the same test with a local ? John G4ZTR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ken Chandler Sent: 21 December 2009 15:13 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Spurious Hi I've just done some tests with my k3 sn 3759 and have been told I have a spurious signal 600Hz above my tx frequency. It was at first heard with my amp on but I switched out the amp and ran the k3 with 100w and my note was still there. Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. My tests were on cw, and my tester was less than 1/2 mile away. Any ideas!!! Ken..G0ORH Sent from my iPhone __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4706 (20091221) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4706 (20091221) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
Hi Ken, Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. Note that the published specifications for the K3 say: Harmonic and Spurious: 50 dB below Carrier (100W) typical. So depending on which side of 50dB your spur is, it may be nothing to worry about. 73 -- Joe KB8AP On Dec 21, 2009, at 7:13 AM, Ken Chandler wrote: Hi I've just done some tests with my k3 sn 3759 and have been told I have a spurious signal 600Hz above my tx frequency. It was at first heard with my amp on but I switched out the amp and ran the k3 with 100w and my note was still there. Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. My tests were on cw, and my tester was less than 1/2 mile away. Any ideas!!! __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
Please have a look ar Applications notes on the elecraft website There is an allert on Spurios TX 73 de Dick PA3FQA - Original Message - From: Joe Planisky jp...@jeffnet.org To: Ken Chandler g0...@sky.com Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, December 21, 2009 4:54 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Spurious Hi Ken, Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. Note that the published specifications for the K3 say: Harmonic and Spurious: 50 dB below Carrier (100W) typical. So depending on which side of 50dB your spur is, it may be nothing to worry about. 73 -- Joe KB8AP On Dec 21, 2009, at 7:13 AM, Ken Chandler wrote: Hi I've just done some tests with my k3 sn 3759 and have been told I have a spurious signal 600Hz above my tx frequency. It was at first heard with my amp on but I switched out the amp and ran the k3 with 100w and my note was still there. Signal level on the spurious was aprox 50db down. My tests were on cw, and my tester was less than 1/2 mile away. Any ideas!!! __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 to ALS600 Amplifier
I am hooking up my new K3 to a ALS600 and would appreciate comments from anyone with this combo concerning connecting without ALC control and any relay delay settings in the K3 Jack W4GRJ -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-to-ALS600-Amplifier-tp4199219p4199219.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 to ALS600 Amplifier
Using K3 + ALS600. About 40 Watts in gets about 425 Watts out from 2.3 to 4.1 MHz. No ALC. TX DLY = 020. Steve, W2MY -Original Message- On Behalf Of w4grj I am hooking up my new K3 to a ALS600 and would appreciate comments from anyone with this combo concerning connecting without ALC control and any relay delay settings in the K3 Jack W4GRJ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
Phil Hystad wrote: I am also planning on getting the K3 and there is only one thing that is holding up my order right now and that is trying to figure out when I can spend the time to put it together. But, I am also a little bit wondering if the cost differential of kit versus factory built is worth the learning experience when you contrast that with the hassles of potential problems. 1. You've already spent more time reading and writing emails on this list than the K3 takes to assemble. 2. Some are using $200 for the cost differential. For the record it's: K3/100 - $250 KAT3 - $30 KRX3 - $50 I've built 3 units with few problems and Elecraft support is absolutely phenomenal if you do have problems. Building your own unit will give you confidence to make inevitable update mods. I've made 10 to #1361 and 7 to #2183 so both units are completely updated except for the much-discussed DSP exchange (which I'm still undecided on). 73, Bill -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/kit-building-or-buy-ready-for-use-tp4195967p4199313.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
Phil, Building the K3 will likely make future hardware changes easier to implement since you will have recognized key circuit board areas and have an understanding of the assembly/disassembly process. Getting in and back out of the K3 is very easy. By contrast, the disassembly of my previously-owned IC-7800 required removal of over a half-dozen different screw types with varying lengths. That created a nightmare situation if one of those screws was installed incorrectly. Paul, W9AC I am also planning on getting the K3 and there is only one thing that is holding up my order right now and that is trying to figure out when I can spend the time to put it together. But, I am also a little bit wondering if the cost differential of kit versus factory built is worth the learning experience when you contrast that with the hassles of potential problems. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
On Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:45:11 -0800 (PST), Bill W4ZV btipp...@alum.mit.edu wrote: Bill is correct about building your own. Both of my K3's are factory built #806 and #1055. #1055 was a trade with a guy who wanted my Orion II. If I ever BUY another one I'll build it for the reasons Bill gave. 73, Tom, N5GE n...@n5ge.com K3 #806 with SUB RX, K3 #1055, PR6, XV144, XV432, KRC2, W1, 2 W2's and other small kits 1 K144XV on order http://www.n5ge.com http://www.swotrc.net Phil Hystad wrote: I am also planning on getting the K3 and there is only one thing that is holding up my order right now and that is trying to figure out when I can spend the time to put it together. But, I am also a little bit wondering if the cost differential of kit versus factory built is worth the learning experience when you contrast that with the hassles of potential problems. 1. You've already spent more time reading and writing emails on this list than the K3 takes to assemble. 2. Some are using $200 for the cost differential. For the record it's: K3/100 - $250 KAT3 - $30 KRX3 - $50 I've built 3 units with few problems and Elecraft support is absolutely phenomenal if you do have problems. Building your own unit will give you confidence to make inevitable update mods. I've made 10 to #1361 and 7 to #2183 so both units are completely updated except for the much-discussed DSP exchange (which I'm still undecided on). 73, Bill __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 Kit or Factory Built
I did the kit. From the practical side, it's nice to know how it goes together if you have to add something like the 2 Meters expansion, or add a filter, or do a mod, or send a module back to Elecraft. From the fun side it's nice to see all the bits disappearing and a K3 growing on the dining table. You do risk certain looks and comments from the lady of the house if you aren't moving along ;-) Vy 73, Bob DJ0MBC/WU5T __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Kit or Factory Built
I would encourage going the kit route if a person has any ability at all. Its very simple to build following instructions, and took me about 6 hours. I was pleased with the fit of parts and panels and how fast the radio went together. And as many have said it makes upgrading or changing boards a lot more friendly if you have seen the insides apart before. For my 200 bucks I added a CW filter and transverter card. Factory built is a real good deal for guys who dont have time or ability, so both sides come out on top. Performance is the same either way. Merv KH7C __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] kit building or buy ready for use
On Sun, 20 Dec 2009 22:03:49 +0100, Volker Wchter wrote: as far as I know, elecreft points out that a complete ESD equipment is strictly recommended. Yes, it is, and it is most critical in cold climates in the winter. But that ESD kit can be limited to a wrist strap and a conductive mat. It also helps to do your assembly work in a part of your home where ESD is minimal (for example, avoid carpets and upholstered furniture). I built two K3s, and I'm quite happy that I did. About 10 hours for the first one, 8 hours for the second one. The savings is considerable. You're simply fitting boards and chassis pieces together. No soldering. A few voltmeter and ohmmeter readings to verify that all is well. All of the boards are thoroughly tested at the factory. The only tricky part is fitting together some multi-pin connectors associated with the front panel, and the instructions provide entirely adequate guidance. The second receiver is also a bit of a close fit. If you're old and feeble, or have some sort of physical handicap, you could enlist the support of another person without that handicap for these tasks. Bottom line -- I STRONGLY recommend buying the K3 in kit form. 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] ANT 1 / ANT 2 different power settings
Is there any way to have the K3 remember different power settings for ANT 1 ANT 2 ? Thanks, Jack W4GRJ -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/ANT-1-ANT-2-different-power-settings-tp4199667p4199667.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 to ALS600 Amplifier
On Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:20:32 -0800 (PST), w4grj wrote: I am hooking up my new K3 to a ALS600 and would appreciate comments from anyone with this combo concerning connecting without ALC control and any relay delay settings in the K3 In general, ALC should NEVER be used to set drive level -- doing so will generally cause MASSIVE splatter and clicks. I have no experience with the ALS600, but I've used my K2/100, K3/100, TS850, and Omni V to drive Ten Tec Titans (tubes), Herc I (solid state), and Herc II (solid state) power amps. 1) There IS a delay built into the K3's circuitry that keys the power amp. The delay is adjustable, and the defalut settings work very well with most amps. You can easily change the delay with a menu setting. 2) To set the power level, simply start with low output from the K3 (I'd start with 10-20 watts) and bring up the output power of the K3 (using the Power knob) until you hit the recommended power output of the amp. My Ten Tec amps all produce full power with less than 50 watts drive. 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KANT3
The KANT3 is on its way to Rhode Island. Thanks to all who replied. 73 and Holiday wishes, H Cary, K4TM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
Lots of people have responded to my question and I feel that it is not really necessary to drag this out. I was sort of looking to see if there were more people who had problems after building the K3 but due to flaws in individual component boards due to the fact that an integrated K3 could not be tested prior to shipment as a kit. This kind of problem was raised by two earlier posts (I think around Friday and Saturday) and that is what prompted my question. But, no one came back and mentioned problems like that so I suspect that it is not an issue and these other posts were rare events. Yes, I am 99.9% sure I will buy a kit and not the factory built K3. But, I was always 99.9% sure of ordering the kit version. phil On Dec 21, 2009, at 8:56 AM, Paul Christensen wrote: Phil, Building the K3 will likely make future hardware changes easier to implement since you will have recognized key circuit board areas and have an understanding of the assembly/disassembly process. Getting in and back out of the K3 is very easy. By contrast, the disassembly of my previously-owned IC-7800 required removal of over a half-dozen different screw types with varying lengths. That created a nightmare situation if one of those screws was installed incorrectly. Paul, W9AC I am also planning on getting the K3 and there is only one thing that is holding up my order right now and that is trying to figure out when I can spend the time to put it together. But, I am also a little bit wondering if the cost differential of kit versus factory built is worth the learning experience when you contrast that with the hassles of potential problems. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Q
Just how did this post get in here? Isn't this the Noisy K3 Receiver forum. ;o) Terry, WØFM (sorry David) -Original Message- From: David [mailto:david_clo...@bigpond.com] Sent: Saturday, December 19, 2009 5:12 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Q Hi,I am building the K2 and the control board is done and checks out fine.The Front Panel is done but in the check list of J1 pins 1-20 pins 1-7 show 0 ohms pin 8 shows .12 ohms pin 9 0 ohms this is not consistent with checklist all else checks out ok , solder looks good no solder bridges could please make a suggestion David __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] kit building or buy ready for use
I always enjoyed building kits and was looking forward to building a K3. But my plans were altered by health issues and I had to go factory built. And I found out 3 weeks ago when I tried to install the DVR option that it was a god move. Had real trouble just opening the radio up with 1 1/2 hands. A mini stroke took away partial use of one hand. I buttoned the radio back up. Now if I could only get my health insurance to cover the cost, I'd ship it out to have it done I hope no more hardware mods come out that I would need, but... that's progress. Happy Holidays to all. de K2GN/Larry K3 - S/N 3278 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
On Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:13:05 +, Ken Chandler wrote: I've just done some tests with my k3 sn 3759 and have been told I have a spurious signal 600Hz above my tx frequency. It was at first heard with my amp on but I switched out the amp and ran the k3 with 100w and my note was still there. What transmit frequency? Did you have your internal speaker turned on? During the recent ARRL 10M contest, several NCCC members observed spurs on each others signals and reported it to Elecraft. I'm told that the cause is acoustic coupling between the speaker and the synthesizer board, and that the amplitude of the spur is greater on the higher bands. Elecraft is intimately aware of the issue, and is working on it at the highest levels. Obviously, the strength of the spur will be proportional to loudness of the speaker (on TX, the sidetone setting), and can be eliminated by turning off the speaker. BTW -- one reason these spurs are more obvious is that the K3 produces very little phase noise to mask them. In general, other rigs (including many that are much higher priced) produce a lot more trash. 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] kit building or buy ready for use
I enjoyed building my two K3's. To me it adds to the radio and the experience. It is not overly difficult to build. I have a bit more invested in my radio's than just some $$$. Like Ed and Dave, I can easily see the value of buying the built radio. The cost of assembly was not a factor in my case. Mike W0MU CC Packet Cluster W0MU-1 W0MU.NET or 67.40.148.194 A slip of the foot you may soon recover, but a slip of the tongue you may never get over. Ben Franklin -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ed Muns Sent: Sunday, December 20, 2009 7:57 PM To: 'Phil Hystad' Cc: 'Elecraft Reflector' Subject: Re: [Elecraft] kit building or buy ready for use Hi, Phil. The vast majority of K3 kits are assembled with no problems. K6LL's experience is rare. I personally value the kit building experience more than Dave indicated. OTOH, I can also see the comfort in the integrity of a factory-built/tested K3. So, it really comes down to each individual's preferences and what they each value as most important. There is not a single right answer for everyone. The point that Dave and I are making is that saving some cost on the kit is not the only consideration. The value of the factory-built K3s is not just the assembly time and labor but also the system testing. Ed - W0YK --- Ed Muns Muns Vineyard - www.munsvineyard.com FaceBook - www.facebook.com/munsvineyard -Original Message- From: Phil Hystad [mailto:k7...@comcast.net] Sent: Sunday, 20 December, 2009 18:40 To: w...@msn.com Cc: 'Dave Hachadorian'; 'Elecraft Reflector' Subject: Re: [Elecraft] kit building or buy ready for use I would like to see more comments from K3 kit builders to counter these points being made here. I am also planning on getting the K3 and there is only one thing that is holding up my order right now and that is trying to figure out when I can spend the time to put it together. But, I am also a little bit wondering if the cost differential of kit versus factory built is worth the learning experience when you contrast that with the hassles of potential problems. If the kit cost versus factory built cost were different by a wider margin it would be an easier decision. phil, K7PEH On Dec 20, 2009, at 6:27 PM, Ed Muns wrote: This is an important point and one that should be considered in the decision to get the factory-built K3 or the kit. Actually the sub-assemblies are tested as individual units. But the set of sub-assemblies in a kit have not been tested together as a system. The factory system tests are more rigorous than what most of us can do with the kit and certainly more rigorous than the kit instructions provide. And, while rare, it is possible that sub-assembly tolerances can combine in a way that causes a system problem. (However, most, if not all, of such system issues are resolved via email or phone with Elecraft support.) So the key considerations are money saved and K3 learning vs. the value of the factory system testing. Of course, you can always send your kit K3 to the factory for the system test but that is likely to be more expensive than getting the factory-built unit in the first place. Ed - W0YK --- Ed Muns Muns Vineyard - www.munsvineyard.com FaceBook - www.facebook.com/munsvineyard K6LL wrote: I recommend that you buy it factory-built, at least for the basic unit. I have two K3's. One I bought second-hand, and one I built. The one I built had a missing major part, which caused a delay, and then didn't work when it was finished. It turned out that there was an unsoldered component on the motherboard, which was undetectable in factory subassembly testing. Although you save $200 by building it yourself, you really don't learn much in the process, and you have to spend about $25 for an ESD mat. If you have to ship it back to the factory, it will cost you $50 in the USA, and much more from overseas. There is no substitute for the final system tests that the factory-assembled units get. Subassemblies are not tested 100%. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] ANT 1 / ANT 2 different power settings
On Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:00:40 -0800 (PST), w4grj w4...@satterfield.org wrote: You should be able to do this with a macro... Is there any way to have the K3 remember different power settings for ANT 1 ANT 2 ? Thanks, Jack W4GRJ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K2 alignment problems
__ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KAF2 Built and tested FS
I have a built and tested KAf2 that was removed for the DSP filter. Will sell with included shipping for 65$. 73, Bill K9YEQ K2 #35; KX1 #35; K3 #1744; mini mods ATS-3B __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KRX3 roofing filter matching for diversity receive
Hi folks, I’m trying to configure the K3 receiver for diversity receive. I’m populating the roofing filter slots in both receivers with matched filters, and the question came up: When the K3 automatically selects the correct roofing filter to match DSP filter bandwidth, does the K3 do this by filter bandwidth, or by FLx number? In other words; when I use the “width” control, and decrease DSP bandwidth from 3.0 Khz to 2.0 Khz on the front panel, the K3 switches from the 2.8 Khz roofing filter located in FL3 to the 2.1 Khz roofing filter located in FL4. With the sub-receiver on, and in diversity receive, does the K3 switch the sub-receiver roofing filter from FL3 to FL4, like the main, or is it smart enough to know that my sub-receiver has it’s 2.8, and 2.1 Khz roofing filters in FL1 and FL2 respectively? Does the K3 select the correct roofing filter by bandwidth, or by FLx number? Is the selection logic the same for main and sub-receiver? The KRX3 manual is a little foggy on this. It says you have to have at least one roofing filter, and if that happens to be the KFL3B FM filter, it MUST be in the FL1 location. It also says that you must have the widest bandwidth nearest FL1, but does not say it must be located at FL1. Bill, W7QQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KRX3 roofing filter matching for diversity receive
Roofing filters are selected by either of two ways. One is by directly selecting FLx on the K3 front panel. The other is by changing the DSP bandwidth via WIDTH, LO CUT or HIGH CUT. When the DSP bandwidth is decreased to the crystal filter bandwidth, then that roofer is selected. (Or, when the DSP increases beyond the current roofer's bandwidth, then the next wider roofer is selected.) It is important to note that the roofer bandwidth is specified by the user in the K3 CONFIG menu, and you are not constrained to use either the marketing bandwidth or the actual bandwidth of the filter. You can put in any bandwidth you want because all you are doing is telling the K3 what DSP bandwidth to engage that particular crystal filter. Most users specify the marketing bandwidth of the filter, e.g., 250 Hz for the 250 Hz 8-pole filter. So, as you decrease the DSP bandwidth and reach 250 Hz, that crystal filter will engage. (Or, if you select FLx, then crystal filter 'x' is selected and the DSP bandwidth is set to 250 Hz.) But you can specify 350 Hz, which is actually rational since the real bandwidth of this filter is 370 Hz. Some people even specify a wider DSP bandwidth engagement point such as 400 or 450 Hz, because they want their crystal filter bandwidth INSIDE the DSP bandwidth. So, think about the relationship of the two filters (crystal and DSP), the resultant cascade bandwidth of the two, the shape factor of the two filters, and the passband shape. Decide the DSP bandwidth at which you want your particular crystal filters to engage. There are arguments for keeping the roofer wider than the DSP at all times and vice versa. Remember that when the DSP bandwidth is near the roofer's actual bandwidth, the cascade bandwidth will be significantly less. When one is much narrower than the other then the narrow bandwidth dominates the IF bandwidth, but other RX characteristics like IMD performance will be determined by the roofer bandwidth. Setting the DSP engagement bandwidths for your crystal filters affects both the resultant IF passband width, shape and sound of the audio, as well as the RX performance characteristics such as IMD. If your head hurts thinking about all this, just specify the bandwidth number in the part number of the filter! That is a good default and the radio will work great. Ed - W0YK --- Ed Muns Muns Vineyard - www.munsvineyard.com FaceBook - www.facebook.com/munsvineyard W7QQ wrote: Im trying to configure the K3 receiver for diversity receive. Im populating the roofing filter slots in both receivers with matched filters, and the question came up: When the K3 automatically selects the correct roofing filter to match DSP filter bandwidth, does the K3 do this by filter bandwidth, or by FLx number? In other words; when I use the width control, and decrease DSP bandwidth from 3.0 Khz to 2.0 Khz on the front panel, the K3 switches from the 2.8 Khz roofing filter located in FL3 to the 2.1 Khz roofing filter located in FL4. With the sub-receiver on, and in diversity receive, does the K3 switch the sub-receiver roofing filter from FL3 to FL4, like the main, or is it smart enough to know that my sub-receiver has its 2.8, and 2.1 Khz roofing filters in FL1 and FL2 respectively? Does the K3 select the correct roofing filter by bandwidth, or by FLx number? Is the selection logic the same for main and sub-receiver? The KRX3 manual is a little foggy on this. It says you have to have at least one roofing filter, and if that happens to be the KFL3B FM filter, it MUST be in the FL1 location. It also says that you must have the widest bandwidth nearest FL1, but does not say it must be located at FL1. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KRX3 roofing filter matching for diversity receive
bill4570 wrote: In other words; when I use the “width” control, and decrease DSP bandwidth from 3.0 Khz to 2.0 Khz on the front panel, the K3 switches from the 2.8 Khz roofing filter located in FL3 to the 2.1 Khz roofing filter located in FL4. With the sub-receiver on, and in diversity receive, does the K3 switch the sub-receiver roofing filter from FL3 to FL4, like the main, or is it smart enough to know that my sub-receiver has it’s 2.8, and 2.1 Khz roofing filters in FL1 and FL2 respectively? Does the K3 select the correct roofing filter by bandwidth, or by FLx number? Is the selection logic the same for main and sub-receiver? Is there some reason you don't want to put the main and subrx filters in corresponding slots? 73, Barry N1EU -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/KRX3-roofing-filter-matching-for-diversity-receive-tp4200536p4200926.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 to ALS600 Amplifier
Jack - I've been using my K3 with my ALS-600 for about 18 months now. My ALS-600 takes 65 watts drive to get full output, so I just put a 2dB attenuator in-line whenever the amp is turned on (relays switch in the attenuator automatically). That way I can leave my transmit power always set to 100 watts and not worry about the drive level. Info on my auto-switch attenuator is in the Articles section of my website at www.ad5x.com. I modified my ALS-600 for QSK operation. The QSK relays operate in less than 5ms, which is within the 8ms default delay of the K3. So this all works fine as well. Details on the ALS-600 QSK mod (which is very simple) are in the Equipment Modification section of my website. Phil - AD5X I am hooking up my new K3 to a ALS600 and would appreciate comments from anyone with this combo concerning connecting without ALC control and any relay delay settings in the K3 Jack W4GRJ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
Jim Brown-10 wrote: I'm told that the cause is acoustic coupling between the speaker and the synthesizer board Somebody reported here a few weeks back they could cause microphony by knocking the K3 case. It adds up. - Julian, G4ILO. K2 #392 K3 #222. * G4ILO's Shack - http://www.g4ilo.com * KComm - http://www.g4ilo.com/kcomm.html * KTune - http://www.g4ilo.com/ktune.html -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/Spurious-tp4198871p4201082.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] P-3 XV144A?
Gentlemen, Will both of these units REQUIRE mods within the K3 for proper seamless operation??? We're really jazzed about both!!! In the case of the P-3 (I know earlier next year!) Regards, Jim/nn6ee __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] For Sale - KX1
For Sale - KX1. Properly built; works perfectly; surplus to needs. 20, 30, and 40 meters; plus ATU and Elecraft KX1 paddle. $485 and ship CONUS by priority mail. PayPal is acceptable. If questions, please contact off list. n7mq at comcast.net 73, Mark N7MQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Spurious
And of course, if you tune to a receiver spur that is influenced by cable orientation, it is HEAVILY microphonic ... especially on the higher bands. I wouldn't be surprised if similar microphonics exist on transmit. 73, Dave AB7E Julian, G4ILO wrote: Jim Brown-10 wrote: I'm told that the cause is acoustic coupling between the speaker and the synthesizer board Somebody reported here a few weeks back they could cause microphony by knocking the K3 case. It adds up. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 DIY vs factory assembled: If I get a bad part, will I be stuck?
I have been posting a LOT of private messages since I don't think they add much (anything) to general knowledge on the reflector. But this time, I think this has some merit for those who are still thinking about a K3, factory-assembled versus DIY (kit). So the recent question raised (not by me) as I see it boils to one of concern: If I buy it assembled, it's guaranteed to work cuz it's been tested, VERSUS, what I assemble it myself and it's not up to snuff? Am I stuck? ABSOLUTELY NOT! The attitude I have noted from Elecraft is that they fully support all their radios, even when you assemble it. In the earlier days of the K3, there were not uncommon emails on the reflector about trading / swapping boards and defective parts (the rare times that they occur). These ran the full range from missing some hardware (all radios I have built or helped to build had a surplus), the infamous cracked knob (none of mine), even I got two left panels or I can't find the fiber washers. IMHO, you will NOT be hung out to dry if you assemble it yourself...you will have TONS of support if you want any and especially if you need any. The crew at supp...@elecraft.com is amazing. I even got a response (well, several) on a holiday weekend when something didn't seem quite right. Did you read that...on a HOLIDAY WEEKEND! Very cool, very comforting. Go for it. de Doug KR2Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 spurious
Yes, a well known issue for a LONG time...with a SUPER EASY solution. It is indeed due to the internal speaker. A year or so ago, I got a call from a local (a couple miles away) that he had a spurious on his K3 (I helped him build it). I listened, yes it was there. When he switched from the internal speaker to headphones, it was gone. I think he ended up using an external speaker which also solved the problem (some guys like speakers!). de Doug KR2Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] P-3 XV144A?
On Sat, 2009-12-19 at 15:06 -0800, JIM DAVIS wrote: Will both of these units REQUIRE mods within the K3 for proper seamless operation??? The P3 requires the KXV3 or KXV3A option. In addition, for best sensitivity a resistor should be changed on the K3 main RF board: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/mods/IF_Output_Buffer_Gain_Mod_Rev_A.pdf It's an easy mod: you only have to remove the front section of the bottom cover. (The change has already been incorporated into all new K3’s beginning in September of this year.) The K144XV requires the KXV3A. In addition, there is a power connector for it on the K3 RF board which may need to be installed. (I think new K3s will have the connector pre-installed, but don't quote me on that.) It also looks like a very easy modification. Alan N1AL __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KRX3 roofing filter matching for diversity receive
Bill, it's simpler than what you're looking for. You can put your widest filter in FL1 and install them from there in descending bandwidth. Use the K3 utility to set up the filters, much easier than doing it with the config menu. The radio automatically switches in the matching filter that matches WIDTH going down. This will be done separately in each RX regardless of what filter slots were used. You do not have to make slot assignments identical. 73, Guy. On Mon, Dec 21, 2009 at 3:57 PM, bill4...@comcast.net wrote: Hi folks, I’m trying to configure the K3 receiver for diversity receive. I’m populating the roofing filter slots in both receivers with matched filters, and the question came up: When the K3 automatically selects the correct roofing filter to match DSP filter bandwidth, does the K3 do this by filter bandwidth, or by FLx number? In other words; when I use the “width” control, and decrease DSP bandwidth from 3.0 Khz to 2.0 Khz on the front panel, the K3 switches from the 2.8 Khz roofing filter located in FL3 to the 2.1 Khz roofing filter located in FL4. With the sub-receiver on, and in diversity receive, does the K3 switch the sub-receiver roofing filter from FL3 to FL4, like the main, or is it smart enough to know that my sub-receiver has it’s 2.8, and 2.1 Khz roofing filters in FL1 and FL2 respectively? Does the K3 select the correct roofing filter by bandwidth, or by FLx number? Is the selection logic the same for main and sub-receiver? The KRX3 manual is a little foggy on this. It says you have to have at least one roofing filter, and if that happens to be the KFL3B FM filter, it MUST be in the FL1 location. It also says that you must have the widest bandwidth nearest FL1, but does not say it must be located at FL1. Bill, W7QQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] New W2 Firmware rev 0.94 available
Announcing the release of W2 Firmware Rev 0.94. This version is now available using our Elecraft W2 Utility program linked to our ftp site. Here are the highlights for this release: *Rev 0.94, 21-Dec-2009 * * VHF SENSOR SERIAL DATA: The decimal point function in the 200W Manual Range did not shift when the measured power dropped below 20 watts. Now corrected.** Please send any questions to k3supp...@elecraft.com. This release will automatically be recognized by the Elecraft W2 Utility if you have checked the Copy new files from Elecraft... box. Please use the latest version of W2 Utility to load. 73, Brian, W6FVI W2 Firmware Engineer Elecraft, Inc. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Digital xmit in USB mode
I can get the K3 to xmit digital when the K3 is in data mode but I need to be able to stay in USB and xmit MT63 digital. However, there is no output when I am in USB mode. Any suggestionsThanks. Jack W4GRJ -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/Digital-xmit-in-USB-mode-tp4201698p4201698.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Digital xmit in USB mode
Jack, Is your data mode set to DATA A? If so, there should be no difference between LSB and USB. Tell us more about your setup and what you are trying to accomplish. 73, Don W3FPR W4GRJ wrote: I can get the K3 to xmit digital when the K3 is in data mode but I need to be able to stay in USB and xmit MT63 digital. However, there is no output when I am in USB mode. Any suggestionsThanks. Jack W4GRJ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Digital xmit in USB mode
I switched the Mic+Lin in the Main Menu to On .that seems to have fixed the problem. It now xmits digital when I am in the USB mode. Thanks again to the group for the help!! From: Don Wilhelm-4 [via Elecraft] [mailto:ml-node+4201775-2000559...@n2.nabble.com] Sent: Monday, December 21, 2009 9:59 PM To: W4GRJ Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Digital xmit in USB mode Jack, Is your data mode set to DATA A? If so, there should be no difference between LSB and USB. Tell us more about your setup and what you are trying to accomplish. 73, Don W3FPR W4GRJ wrote: I can get the K3 to xmit digital when the K3 is in data mode but I need to be able to stay in USB and xmit MT63 digital. However, there is no output when I am in USB mode. Any suggestionsThanks. Jack W4GRJ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[hidden email] http://n2.nabble.com/user/SendEmail.jtp?type=nodenode=4201775i=0 This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html _ View message @ http://n2.nabble.com/Digital-xmit-in-USB-mode-tp4201698p4201775.html To unsubscribe from Digital xmit in USB mode, click (link removed) lbGQub3JnfDQyMDE2OTh8LTE1NTQ0MzE1MTk= here. No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.427 / Virus Database: 270.14.116/2579 - Release Date: 12/21/09 19:13:00 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/Digital-xmit-in-USB-mode-tp4201698p4201814.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KRX3 roofing filter matching for diversity receive
H... Ed, I almost tried using the built in translator in Outlook...but then I recognized some of those words, like is and the. :-() It almost let the smoke out of my head. Seriously though, I don't understand the filter setup technicalities. I can get through setting them up per the defaults in the manual, but I would like to understand more about what you said. I'm not sure why a filter would be advertised as a 250hz filter but actually have a (usable?) bandwidth of 370hz. Is this just a difference in how it's measured? I have SN/0690 and am just now installing the KRX3. It arrived a few months after the radio, back in mid to late 08, and I just never got around to installing it. I have identical filters in both the main and sub receiver (13khz, 6khz, 2.8 400 respecitively, with # 5 empty) so I can try out diversity receive. I don't do much CW so didn't figure I needed a 250hz. I'm sure I'll be asking some questions about this in short order, once I get the rig back together. I am doing some of the mods and am currently waiting on some parts and the REV C or D (or whatever it's up to now) DSP board. Stan Rife W5EWA -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ed Muns Roofing filters are selected by either of two ways. One is by directly selecting FLx on the K3 front panel. The other is by changing the DSP bandwidth via WIDTH, LO CUT or HIGH CUT. When the DSP bandwidth is decreased to the crystal filter bandwidth, then that roofer is selected. (Or, when the DSP increases beyond the current roofer's bandwidth, then the next wider roofer is selected.) It is important to note that the roofer bandwidth is specified by the user in the K3 CONFIG menu, and you are not constrained to use either the marketing bandwidth or the actual bandwidth of the filter. You can put in any bandwidth you want because all you are doing is telling the K3 what DSP bandwidth to engage that particular crystal filter. Most users specify the marketing bandwidth of the filter, e.g., 250 Hz for the 250 Hz 8-pole filter. So, as you decrease the DSP bandwidth and reach 250 Hz, that crystal filter will engage. (Or, if you select FLx, then crystal filter 'x' is selected and the DSP bandwidth is set to 250 Hz.) But you can specify 350 Hz, which is actually rational since the real bandwidth of this filter is 370 Hz. Some people even specify a wider DSP bandwidth engagement point such as 400 or 450 Hz, because they want their crystal filter bandwidth INSIDE the DSP bandwidth. So, think about the relationship of the two filters (crystal and DSP), the resultant cascade bandwidth of the two, the shape factor of the two filters, and the passband shape. Decide the DSP bandwidth at which you want your particular crystal filters to engage. There are arguments for keeping the roofer wider than the DSP at all times and vice versa. Remember that when the DSP bandwidth is near the roofer's actual bandwidth, the cascade bandwidth will be significantly less. When one is much narrower than the other then the narrow bandwidth dominates the IF bandwidth, but other RX characteristics like IMD performance will be determined by the roofer bandwidth. Setting the DSP engagement bandwidths for your crystal filters affects both the resultant IF passband width, shape and sound of the audio, as well as the RX performance characteristics such as IMD. If your head hurts thinking about all this, just specify the bandwidth number in the part number of the filter! That is a good default and the radio will work great. Ed - W0YK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KRX3 roofing filter matching for diversity receive
So is the information in the manual just the easy way to set it up, and you can actually put them in whatever slots you want? From reading the manual I understood that they had to be in decending order starting from FL1, and the filters in both receivers had to match for diversity receive. Stan Rife W5EWA -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Guy Olinger K2AV Sent: Monday, December 21, 2009 8:06 PM To: bill4...@comcast.net Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KRX3 roofing filter matching for diversity receive Bill, it's simpler than what you're looking for. You can put your widest filter in FL1 and install them from there in descending bandwidth. Use the K3 utility to set up the filters, much easier than doing it with the config menu. The radio automatically switches in the matching filter that matches WIDTH going down. This will be done separately in each RX regardless of what filter slots were used. You do not have to make slot assignments identical. 73, Guy. On Mon, Dec 21, 2009 at 3:57 PM, bill4...@comcast.net wrote: Hi folks, Im trying to configure the K3 receiver for diversity receive. Im populating the roofing filter slots in both receivers with matched filters, and the question came up: When the K3 automatically selects the correct roofing filter to match DSP filter bandwidth, does the K3 do this by filter bandwidth, or by FLx number? In other words; when I use the width control, and decrease DSP bandwidth from 3.0 Khz to 2.0 Khz on the front panel, the K3 switches from the 2.8 Khz roofing filter located in FL3 to the 2.1 Khz roofing filter located in FL4. With the sub-receiver on, and in diversity receive, does the K3 switch the sub-receiver roofing filter from FL3 to FL4, like the main, or is it smart enough to know that my sub-receiver has its 2.8, and 2.1 Khz roofing filters in FL1 and FL2 respectively? Does the K3 select the correct roofing filter by bandwidth, or by FLx number? Is the selection logic the same for main and sub-receiver? The KRX3 manual is a little foggy on this. It says you have to have at least one roofing filter, and if that happens to be the KFL3B FM filter, it MUST be in the FL1 location. It also says that you must have the widest bandwidth nearest FL1, but does not say it must be located at FL1. Bill, W7QQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 spurious
Is there a permanent fix (mod) for this? Not sure whether I have the problem or not. Stan Rife W5EWA -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL Sent: Monday, December 21, 2009 6:58 PM To: Elecraft Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] K3 spurious Yes, a well known issue for a LONG time...with a SUPER EASY solution. It is indeed due to the internal speaker. A year or so ago, I got a call from a local (a couple miles away) that he had a spurious on his K3 (I helped him build it). I listened, yes it was there. When he switched from the internal speaker to headphones, it was gone. I think he ended up using an external speaker which also solved the problem (some guys like speakers!). de Doug KR2Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 DIY vs factory assembled: If I get a bad part, will I be stuck?
Doug: Your argument is solid for citizens of the USA. But life offshore is different and the logistics support system from Aptos, while it cannot be faulted, cannot do anything about the vagaries of postal and transportation and customs and immigration systems which attract delay and cost, sometimes of eye-watering magnitude, to those of us who live elsewhere. I think this thread originated from a ham in DL although I may be wrong. If so that may be one kind of situation when the additional cost of Elecraft assembly provides the owner with confidence in the performance of the K3 after it has gone through the pre-delivery burn-in and function testing in Aptos. That consideration for some folks may over-ride the valid benefits from home-built for reasons that have nothing do with the technical issues associated with K3 Kit assembly and cost savings but rather with the ability to support the K3 is a timely fashion if/when goes wrong and salvation resides in a different country. Just a thought. The correct answer depends upon how the buyer wants to handle risk mitigation. Gary, VE1RGB -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL Sent: December 21, 2009 8:49 PM To: Elecraft Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] K3 DIY vs factory assembled: If I get a bad part, will I be stuck? I have been posting a LOT of private messages since I don't think they add much (anything) to general knowledge on the reflector. But this time, I think this has some merit for those who are still thinking about a K3, factory-assembled versus DIY (kit). So the recent question raised (not by me) as I see it boils to one of concern: If I buy it assembled, it's guaranteed to work cuz it's been tested, VERSUS, what I assemble it myself and it's not up to snuff? Am I stuck? ABSOLUTELY NOT! The attitude I have noted from Elecraft is that they fully support all their radios, even when you assemble it. In the earlier days of the K3, there were not uncommon emails on the reflector about trading / swapping boards and defective parts (the rare times that they occur). These ran the full range from missing some hardware (all radios I have built or helped to build had a surplus), the infamous cracked knob (none of mine), even I got two left panels or I can't find the fiber washers. IMHO, you will NOT be hung out to dry if you assemble it yourself...you will have TONS of support if you want any and especially if you need any. The crew at supp...@elecraft.com is amazing. I even got a response (well, several) on a holiday weekend when something didn't seem quite right. Did you read that...on a HOLIDAY WEEKEND! Very cool, very comforting. Go for it. de Doug KR2Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K2 Question
On behalf of a friend (in Australia) who is thinking of a K2, can anyone give an approximate idea of the time needed to build a K2 kit Better still has anyone got a K2 to sell (In Australia) 73 David VK3DBD __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
