date:20160209


Yes, insulation does in effect cause the electrical length to change.

Case and point, construct a 1/2 wave antenna using insulated wire, put 
it up and determine the resonant frequency or point where the SWR is 
1:1.   Then take it down, carefully strip off the insulation and put it 
back in the same place.  Make the same measurements to determine 
resonant frequency or point where the SWR is 1:1.  You'll find it 
changed due to the K factor contributed by the insulation.


73
Bob, K4TAX



On 2/9/2016 1:46 PM, Dave Cole wrote:

Hi Jim,

I have been reading about your exploits with THHN, and the 100 to 50
ohm change caused by the insulation...

I am going to pick some up today and wind a choke using it, (as opposed
to enameled 14 GA copper), to see just how close to 50 ohms it will
come...  Any last minute tips?

BTW, thanks again for publishing all of your work!




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Re: [Elecraft] Competition from ICOM?

2016-02-09 Thread Matt Maguire

If it only goes up to 74.8 mHz, then I don't think Elecraft has anything to 
worry about :-)
73, Matt VK2RQ

Envoyé via Outlook Mobile

_
From: Bill 
Sent: mercredi, février 10, 2016 2:17 AM
Subject: [Elecraft] Competition from ICOM?
To:  

Icom is about to release their IC-7300 with rx from .03 to 74.8 mHz, 
with a live display, auto tuner, 100 Watts, 15 included bandpass 
filters, and a direct sampling receiver. All this for under $1500 
street. I wonder how it will compare to the K3 in performance.

I am not looking to get an argument going on this - just stating what is 
out there on the horizon. Who knows, it could turnout to be hangar queen 
or a frequent flyer on UPS. That said, it sure looks like a lot of rig 
for the buck.

Bill W2BLC K-Line

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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires


I don't believe there are magic lengths.

There are however lengths that are decidely non-magical, and if you want 
something that works on 40, 30, 20, 17, 15, 12 and 10, there are many 
lengths that are non-magical.


That's why I did not ask "what is a good length?"  There is a pretty 
good reference here: http://udel.edu/~mm/ham/randomWire/


Short of buying a 100 foot tape (or a longer one), what methods do 
people use to reasonably accurately measure 53 feet (or 72 feet, or 136 
feet)?


Thanks -- Lynn

On 2/9/2016 11:06 AM, Barry N1EU wrote:

I think the only important measurement is that it avoids being near a half
wavelength on any bands.  Are there really "magic" lengths to be used with
9:1 xfmr into a tuner?  I'm skeptical.

73, Barry N1EU

On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 1:50 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT <
k...@coldrockshotbrooms.com> wrote:


Only a bit off-topic, since I have a KX3 w/tuner and a 9:1 balun to go
with it.

I know how to trim a resonant antenna to the correct final length. I also
understand why truly "random" wires don't necessarily work.

The recent post about shipboard operations near Antarctica said they're
using a 53' wire.

How do you guys measure an antenna like this?  I assume it can be a few
inches off, but

73 -- Lynn



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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

Hi Jim,

I have been reading about your exploits with THHN, and the 100 to 50
ohm change caused by the insulation... 

I am going to pick some up today and wind a choke using it, (as opposed
to enameled 14 GA copper), to see just how close to 50 ohms it will
come...  Any last minute tips? 

BTW, thanks again for publishing all of your work!

-- 
73's, and thanks,
Dave

For software/hardware reviews see:
http://www.nk7z.net

For MixW support see:
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/mixw/info

For SSTV help see:
http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/MM-SSTV/info



On Tue, 2016-02-09 at 10:10 -0800, Jim Brown wrote:
> I have addressed this by showing photographs of winding techniques
> for 
> coax normally used for transmitting, and for short lengths of 
> transmission line formed by taping together a pair of 4-6 ft of #12 
> THHN. There's also text that goes with it, noting that winding
> radius 
> should follow mfr recommendations for bending radius, that close
> spacing 
> should be used to lower the resonant frequency and wider spacing to 
> raise it.
> 
> Note also that the dielectric constant of outer jacket material can
> have 
> a quite significant effect on the bandwidth of ferrite chokes. For 
> example, the bandwidth of those THHN chokes is MUCH greater than
> chokes 
> would with typical RG8, RG213, RG11. Years ago, someone sent me a
> length 
> of one of the teflon coaxes and I measured some chokes. As I recall, 
> their bandwidth was lower than those wound with conventional coax.
> 
> 73, Jim K9YC
> 
> 73, Jim K9YC
> 
> On Tue,2/9/2016 7:45 AM, James Robbins wrote:
> > 
> > Good morning Jim,
> > 
> > I am wondering if you could opine about how “tightly” coax needs to
> > be 
> > wound around a torroid for balun use (or other uses, for that
> > matter)?
> > 
> > In other words, while there have been so many Elecraft postings
> > about 
> > the bending  radii of various types of coax, there is no
> > information 
> > posted about how tightly (closely) the coax needs to be wound
> > around 
> > the edge of the toroid.  (When I have wound small torroids with
> > magnet 
> > wire, the winding is tight against the core.  I’m not sure this is 
> > even possible, let alone needed, for a balun.)
> > 
> > If this is in one of your “papers”, please just refer me to the
> > paper 
> > and I’ll dig it out.
> > 
> > 73,
> > 
> > Jim Robbins
> > 
> > N1JR
> > 
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

I use a BOSCH laser tape obtained from the local hardware supply store.  
It measures to 250 ft, +/- 1/16".   The only challenge is to estimate 
the wire sag in measuring a long length of wire.  The laser is always 
measuring  straight line.  For shorter lengths, I stretch the wire tight 
on the floor of the shop or laying over reasonably level ground and 
shoot the laser along side.


In general hams will construct the antenna and then trim the length {add 
or subtract length}  to get the SWR value to 1:1 or such.


73
Bob, K4TAX


On 2/9/2016 1:38 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT wrote:


Short of buying a 100 foot tape (or a longer one), what methods do 
people use to reasonably accurately measure 53 feet (or 72 feet, or 
136 feet)?





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[Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

Only a bit off-topic, since I have a KX3 w/tuner and a 9:1 balun to go 
with it.


I know how to trim a resonant antenna to the correct final length. I 
also understand why truly "random" wires don't necessarily work.


The recent post about shipboard operations near Antarctica said they're 
using a 53' wire.


How do you guys measure an antenna like this?  I assume it can be a few 
inches off, but


73 -- Lynn
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[Elecraft] K3S Kit #10641

2016-02-09 Thread Jim Sheldon

K3S Kit build Serial# 10641 arrived Monday about 9:00 a.m.  Started the 
build around 10:30 and continued through yesterday with a few breaks.  
The build was complete except for the P/A and Sub Receiver at about 9:45 
last night.  I completed the 5 watt power calibration, REF CAL and 
receiver RF Gain calibrations and shut down for the night.  Installed 
the P/A module this morning and ran the 50 watt TX Gain cal.  All passed 
with no issues.  I still have the Sub Receiver to go, but my roofing 
filter set won't be complete until the pair of 6.0 KHz filters arrives 
tomorrow from Elecraft so I'm holding off on the Sub so I won't have to 
remove it to install the 6.0 KHz filter on the main board.


This was an easy (though intricate) build and even with my somewhat 
impaired vision, I had no problems with it other than a minor glitch in 
configuring the filters to leave the FL1 slot open temporarily.  My 
suggestion to anyone else needing to leave FL1 open (for later install 
of a wider filter and not have to move everything around), use the 
K3/K3S utility's Filter Configuration app to do this.  If you try from 
the front panel first and not through the computer utility, it may or 
may not work right.


After a couple of tries with the MENU and then back to the Utility, 
everything finally set up properly.  Now when the filters get here, I'll 
be able to install the Sub RX and change out the older K3 for the K3S.


Jim - W0EB

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Re: [Elecraft] K3S Kit #10641


Congratulations on a successful project.

73
Bob, K4TAX
K3S, s/n 10163

On 2/9/2016 1:40 PM, Jim Sheldon wrote:
K3S Kit build Serial# 10641 arrived Monday about 9:00 a.m.  Started 
the build around 10:30 and continued through yesterday with a few 
breaks.  The build was complete except for the P/A and Sub Receiver at 
about 9:45 last night.  I completed the 5 watt power calibration, REF 
CAL and receiver RF Gain calibrations and shut down for the night.  
Installed the P/A module this morning and ran the 50 watt TX Gain 
cal.  All passed with no issues.  I still have the Sub Receiver to go, 
but my roofing filter set won't be complete until the pair of 6.0 KHz 
filters arrives tomorrow from Elecraft so I'm holding off on the Sub 
so I won't have to remove it to install the 6.0 KHz filter on the main 
board.


This was an easy (though intricate) build and even with my somewhat 
impaired vision, I had no problems with it other than a minor glitch 
in configuring the filters to leave the FL1 slot open temporarily.  My 
suggestion to anyone else needing to leave FL1 open (for later install 
of a wider filter and not have to move everything around), use the 
K3/K3S utility's Filter Configuration app to do this.  If you try from 
the front panel first and not through the computer utility, it may or 
may not work right.


After a couple of tries with the MENU and then back to the Utility, 
everything finally set up properly.  Now when the filters get here, 
I'll be able to install the Sub RX and change out the older K3 for the 
K3S.


Jim - W0EB

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Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Clay Autery

To Jim:

If I can get my life to settle down a bit, I plan to inhale the Extra
information and test on February 20th at one of my local clubs.
I took it blind on the same day I took the General, but missed passing
it by a few questions which I don't mind...  I'd rather
take/pass/ace it after I feel better about having mastered the required
information.

To ALL:

Thank you all for the Congrats, well wishes, the stories, and everything
else.  I love that something so basic as communication can draw and bind
together such a broad population, the young and old, rich and poor, next
door or literally half-way 'round the globe.

I've spent a good deal of my life choosing up sides in conflicts...
sometimes even wearing a distinctive suit to denote which side I was on
and carrying weapons to drive home my point.

I'd like to finish out my time, however long that might be, enjoying
people and hopefully being a help.

I think this might be one way to make that happen.

May you ALL be blessed beyond your capacity to contain.  May your
harvest be so abundant that you provide seed for others to plant that we
ALL may be fed.

Have a wonderful day!

__
Clay Autery
KG5LKV

On 2/9/2016 12:25 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
> On Tue,2/9/2016 7:57 AM, Clay Autery wrote:
>> As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio
>> License with General privileges.
>
> Congratulations, Clay. Previous posts from you make it clear that
> you're quite competent technically, so I urge you to move ahead to
> qualify for your Extra Class license. With your background and
> study/review of the material, you should have little difficulty with it.
>
> 73, Jim K9YC
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

Start with a sailboat sitting in salt water with the electrical system 
and masts bonded and tied to suitable grounding plates on the hull.  
This is all normal for most shipboard installations. A random length 
of wire can be matched to effectively transfer RF from the transmitter.  
Precise length measurements are not necessary. Keep ground loss and 
other component loss to a minimum and one has a rather decent antenna.  
Thus one uses an insulated back stay on the vessel.

73
Bob, K4TAX

On 2/9/2016 1:06 PM, Barry N1EU wrote:

I think the only important measurement is that it avoids being near a half
wavelength on any bands.  Are there really "magic" lengths to be used with
9:1 xfmr into a tuner?  I'm skeptical.

73, Barry N1EU

On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 1:50 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT <
k...@coldrockshotbrooms.com> wrote:

>Only a bit off-topic, since I have a KX3 w/tuner and a 9:1 balun to go
>with it.
>
>I know how to trim a resonant antenna to the correct final length. I also
>understand why truly "random" wires don't necessarily work.
>
>The recent post about shipboard operations near Antarctica said they're
>using a 53' wire.
>
>How do you guys measure an antenna like this?  I assume it can be a few
>inches off, but
>
>73 -- Lynn

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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread Barry N1EU

A 53ft end-fed wire has a radiation pattern that varies all over the map as
you go up in frequency above 10MHz.

For 40-10M, I much prefer a 44ft center-fed doublet which has a broadside
pattern on all bands.

Barry N1EU

On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 2:38 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT <
k...@coldrockshotbrooms.com> wrote:

> I don't believe there are magic lengths.
>
> There are however lengths that are decidely non-magical, and if you want
> something that works on 40, 30, 20, 17, 15, 12 and 10, there are many
> lengths that are non-magical.
>
> That's why I did not ask "what is a good length?"  There is a pretty good
> reference here: http://udel.edu/~mm/ham/randomWire/
>
> Short of buying a 100 foot tape (or a longer one), what methods do people
> use to reasonably accurately measure 53 feet (or 72 feet, or 136 feet)?
>
> Thanks -- Lynn
>
>
> On 2/9/2016 11:06 AM, Barry N1EU wrote:
>
>> I think the only important measurement is that it avoids being near a half
>> wavelength on any bands.  Are there really "magic" lengths to be used with
>> 9:1 xfmr into a tuner?  I'm skeptical.
>>
>> 73, Barry N1EU
>>
>> On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 1:50 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT <
>> k...@coldrockshotbrooms.com> wrote:
>>
>> Only a bit off-topic, since I have a KX3 w/tuner and a 9:1 balun to go
>>> with it.
>>>
>>> I know how to trim a resonant antenna to the correct final length. I also
>>> understand why truly "random" wires don't necessarily work.
>>>
>>> The recent post about shipboard operations near Antarctica said they're
>>> using a 53' wire.
>>>
>>> How do you guys measure an antenna like this?  I assume it can be a few
>>> inches off, but
>>>
>>> 73 -- Lynn
>>>
>>>
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Re: [Elecraft] Another K3 Antarctic excursion.

2016-02-09 Thread w7aqk


Jim,

Thanks for the heads up.  I'll try and listen.  I wonder if there is any 
particular band or time of operation.  Otherwise, I guess I'll just have to 
watch the DX cluster.


I didn't realize that operating from a ship, in territorial waters, didn't 
count for DXCC.  However, I'm not surprised that I didn't know this tidbit 
since I'm not an avid DX chaser.  I suppose that is because actual location 
might be a bit "fuzzy" when operating that way, but it sure seems if a ship 
is docked it ought to count!  Hi.  So, if I would be operating from a house 
boat in San Francisco Bay, or maybe San Diego harbor, I guess that wouldn't 
count as being in California either!  Hi.


Anyway, it will be interesting to see if I can hear them with that antenna 
system.  A bunch of us on the PQRP reflector have been tinkering with just 
such an antenna system.


73,

Dave W7AQK


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Re: [Elecraft] 160 meters RX antenna for K3 advice

2016-02-09 Thread Petr, OK1RP/M0SIS

Hi Joe,

an easy and cheap starting point (weekend project) is the W2PM Mini-Diamond
loop connected thru W7IUV preamplifier and KD9SV front-end saver to Ext.RX
ant port of your K3.

It is just 1.5m square wire loop with loading resistor and feedline
transformer so it will fit anywhere even on balcony or inside of house
attic. ( but I recommend to place it as far from house noise as possible)

There is several other more powerful RX antennas like K9AY etc. but this is
cheap and easy to try.
Let me know if you want to send more instructions and help.

The best but more complicate solution which need more space and effort in
building is definitely 3-el. Hi-Z verticals array. It will fit to 15x15m
triangle lot and it will be hard to beat I guess.

GL 73 - Petr, OK1RP
http://160mband.blogspot.com



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[Elecraft] Competition from ICOM?

2016-02-09 Thread Bill

Icom is about to release their IC-7300 with rx from .03 to 74.8 mHz, 
with a live display, auto tuner, 100 Watts, 15 included bandpass 
filters, and a direct sampling receiver. All this for under $1500 
street. I wonder how it will compare to the K3 in performance.


I am not looking to get an argument going on this - just stating what is 
out there on the horizon. Who knows, it could turnout to be hangar queen 
or a frequent flyer on UPS. That said, it sure looks like a lot of rig 
for the buck.


Bill W2BLC K-Line

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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

2016-02-09 Thread Robert Nobis

Hi Bob McGraw,

I agree, except on one point: I’s say 90%, rather than 75%, of the stuff we use 
and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.

73,


Bob Nobis - N7RJN
n7...@nobis.net


> On Feb 9, 2016, at 08:01, Bob McGraw K4TAX  wrote:
> 
> I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's
> 
> Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style bobbin is 
> typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an airplane, boat 
> or space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax such as RG-303 would not 
> seem to be of concern.  The more important point and my experience and as 
> related by others, the use of coax which has foam dielectric in a tight 
> radius bend has been proven or shown to be problematic.As to if the 
> manufactures bending radius dimension is being violated, I find to be of 
> little concern.
> 
> After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit and then 
> some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the rules 100% in 
> all aspects of their stations"I'd say 75% of the stuff we use and 
> methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.
> 
> 73
> Bob, K4TAX
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
>> Hi Bob, et al,
>> 
>> Thank you all for your careful attention.
>> 
>> I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I transposed that
>> to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons for
>> referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone will get
>> it right.
>> 
>> That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change the
>> argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement instead of
>> watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with other
>> performance specific measurements.
>> 
>> I still would not use the solid center conductor versions (RG142/303) on a
>> winding.
>> 
>> 73, Guy K2AV
>> 
>> On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:
>> 
>>> Hi Guy,
>>> 
>>> I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure from the
>>> ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a given
>>> sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
>>> represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 73,
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Bob Nobis - N7RJN
>>> n7...@nobis.net 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV >> > wrote:
>>> 
>>> 
>>> I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard until it is
>>> clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are actually
>>> measuring:
>>> 
>>> http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007.pdf
>>> 
>>> The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a limit of
>>> 1% surface deformity when bending.
>>> 
>>> In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of an inch
>>> (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending deformity
>>> at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an average
>>> human hair.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
> 
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] 160 meters RX antenna for K3 advice

2016-02-09 Thread barry whittemore

I used the FAR Circuits K9AY circuit and made my own K9AY loop system. I have a 
City Lot and while it was not earth shattering in performance there were a few 
stations that I could hear with it that I could not on my inv Ell. With that 
setup I was able to get DXCC on 160 with 100 watts.
I would say that at least 5  were not going to happen without it.
 
It was relatively inexpensive and easy to put up.
73 and GL
Barry
NF1O
  
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Re: [Elecraft] KIO3B Upgrade Kit for the K3

2016-02-09 Thread Tom Crayner

Don,

Wasn't the KIO3B code added at firmware level 5.x?

If so, not sure the K3 knows anything about the USB setting unless it is
polling those settings directly from the board itself.

Tom (W2YF)



On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 7:29 AM, Don Wilhelm  wrote:

> Rob,
>
> Did you set the CONFIG: RS232 to USB?  You should then be able to get
> K3Utility to communicate with the K3 over USB.
> Once you accomplish that, you should be able to download the new firmware
> through the USB port.
>
> If that does not work, set the switch on the back of the board to the
> RS-232 position and connect the PC (with a USB to serial adapter) to the
> dongle provided with the upgrade kit - be sure to set the RS-232 menu
> parameter back to 38400 to use RS-232.
>
> I recall that firmware 4.86 is before the memory slots for the TX Gain
> data was moved, so be sure to run TX Gain Calibration after the firmware
> upgrade.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 2/8/2016 10:41 PM, ROBERT KIMPEL wrote:
>
>> I just completed the install of the KI03 update to my K3 SN 4843 and
>> guess what? I forgot to update the firmware to the latest version (4.86
>> now). The PC won’t talk to the K3 through the USB! Do I need to restore the
>> old boards and then update? I am watching for your HELP!
>> Rob, KJ6ILO
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Re: [Elecraft] KIO3B Upgrade Kit for the K3


I did not check the firmware release notes.
If that is the case, then the switch will have to be set to the RS-232 
position and the RJ45 to RS-232 dongle used until the firmware is updated.

Be certain the switch is returned to its normal position afterwards.

Also be certain the RJ-45 plug is fully inserted.  You will hear a 
definite click when it is fully seated.

You may have to slide the boot cover back a bit to push the plug home.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/9/2016 9:16 AM, Tom Crayner wrote:

Don,

Wasn't the KIO3B code added at firmware level 5.x?

If so, not sure the K3 knows anything about the USB setting unless it is
polling those settings directly from the board itself.



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Re: [Elecraft] 160 meters RX antenna for K3 advice

2016-02-09 Thread Joe Moffatt

This is interesting and may be something to "get my feet wet"

Joe

From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Petr, 
OK1RP/M0SIS
Sent: Tuesday, February 9, 2016 8:58 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] 160 meters RX antenna for K3 advice

Hi Joe,

an easy and cheap starting point (weekend project) is the W2PM Mini-Diamond
loop connected thru W7IUV preamplifier and KD9SV front-end saver to Ext.RX
ant port of your K3.

It is just 1.5m square wire loop with loading resistor and feedline
transformer so it will fit anywhere even on balcony or inside of house
attic. ( but I recommend to place it as far from house noise as possible)

There is several other more powerful RX antennas like K9AY etc. but this is
cheap and easy to try.
Let me know if you want to send more instructions and help.

The best but more complicate solution which need more space and effort in
building is definitely 3-el. Hi-Z verticals array. It will fit to 15x15m
triangle lot and it will be hard to beat I guess.

GL 73 - Petr, OK1RP
http://160mband.blogspot.com

-
http://ok1rp.blogspot.com
--
View this message in context: 
http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/160-meters-RX-antenna-for-K3-advice-tp7613761p7613784.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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[Elecraft] KAT500 utility works -- then doesn't

2016-02-09 Thread John Shadle

Hi all,
After finishing up my K3S build with only one incident (the 400Hz filters
mysteriously not working in the new rig -- they are now at Elecraft for
testing, FYI), I am reconnecting my K3S and the rest of my station.
Finally, I got motivated to finally get my KAT500 connected to my computer!

I installed the latest version of the utility and all was good. I was able
to view the SWR and FWD/REF power as the unit trained itself (after
clearing the memories, first). Then, without warning, the utility stopped
recognizing the KAT500. The COM port is still there and it hasn't changed,
but the KAT500 is no longer found. Many options are now grayed out.

I've tried changing the COM port assignment for the KXUSB adapter, but that
does nothing. I tried removing then reinstalling the adapter, which also
results in no change.

Any ideas what is going on? Could RF have somehow gotten into the
controller in the KAT500 to make it not respond to the KXUSB polling?

The KAT500 still tunes as usual, but I'm just not able to access the unit
at all via the computer interface.

Thanks for your help.
-john NE4U
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Re: [Elecraft] Competition from ICOM?

2016-02-09 Thread Barry N1EU

I've been closely following the IC-7300 news because I'm a big fan of
direct sampling receivers.  It's still too early to tell how well Icom will
pull it off.  I really don't see it as being K3s competition, a more apt
comparison being TS-590 and FT-1200.  Icom has been quite clear that
this will be an entry level radio only.

I suspect that compared to the K3s, the IC-7300 will fall short in terms of
dynamic range, QSK, etc.

73, Barry N1EU

On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 10:16 AM, Bill  wrote:

> Icom is about to release their IC-7300 with rx from .03 to 74.8 mHz, with
> a live display, auto tuner, 100 Watts, 15 included bandpass filters, and a
> direct sampling receiver. All this for under $1500 street. I wonder how it
> will compare to the K3 in performance.
>
> I am not looking to get an argument going on this - just stating what is
> out there on the horizon. Who knows, it could turnout to be hangar queen or
> a frequent flyer on UPS. That said, it sure looks like a lot of rig for the
> buck.
>
> Bill W2BLC K-Line
>
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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

2016-02-09 Thread Guy Olinger K2AV

Hi Bob, et al,

Thank you all for your careful attention.

I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I transposed that
to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons for
referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone will get
it right.

That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change the
argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement instead of
watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with other
performance specific measurements.

I still would not use the solid center conductor versions (RG142/303) on a
winding.

73, Guy K2AV

On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:

> Hi Guy,
>
> I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure from the
> ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a given
> sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
> represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”
>
>
> 73,
>
>
> Bob Nobis - N7RJN
> n7...@nobis.net 
>
>
> On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV  > wrote:
>
>
> I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard until it is
> clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are actually
> measuring:
>
> http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007.pdf
>
> The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a limit of
> 1% surface deformity when bending.
>
> In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of an inch
> (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending deformity
> at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an average
> human hair.
>
>
>
>
>
>

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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions


I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's

Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style bobbin 
is typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an 
airplane, boat or space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax such 
as RG-303 would not seem to be of concern.  The more important point and 
my experience and as related by others, the use of coax which has foam 
dielectric in a tight radius bend has been proven or shown to be 
problematic.As to if the manufactures bending radius dimension is 
being violated, I find to be of little concern.


After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit and 
then some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the 
rules 100% in all aspects of their stations"I'd say 75% of 
the stuff we use and methods employed would put most of the station 
stuff in the trash.


73
Bob, K4TAX





On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:

Hi Bob, et al,

Thank you all for your careful attention.

I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I transposed that
to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons for
referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone will get
it right.

That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change the
argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement instead of
watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with other
performance specific measurements.

I still would not use the solid center conductor versions (RG142/303) on a
winding.

73, Guy K2AV

On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:


Hi Guy,

I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure from the
ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a given
sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”


73,


Bob Nobis - N7RJN
n7...@nobis.net 


On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV > wrote:


I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard until it is
clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are actually
measuring:

http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007.pdf

The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a limit of
1% surface deformity when bending.

In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of an inch
(yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending deformity
at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an average
human hair.









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Re: [Elecraft] 160 meters RX antenna for K3 advice

2016-02-09 Thread j...@kk9a.com

Regarding the front end saver: Is the receiver in the K3 & K3S always
connected to the RX antenna?

Another very good small top band RX antenna is a pennant. It is not ground
dependent like some and it is inexpensive to build. K6SE(sk) wrote an
excellent article on this antenna.

John KK9A


from: Petr, OK1RP/M0SIS
Tue Feb 9 09:57:45 EST 2016

Hi Joe,

an easy and cheap starting point (weekend project) is the W2PM Mini-Diamond
loop connected thru W7IUV preamplifier and KD9SV front-end saver to Ext.RX
ant port of your K3.

It is just 1.5m square wire loop with loading resistor and feedline
transformer so it will fit anywhere even on balcony or inside of house
attic. ( but I recommend to place it as far from house noise as possible)

There is several other more powerful RX antennas like K9AY etc. but this is
cheap and easy to try.
Let me know if you want to send more instructions and help.

The best but more complicate solution which need more space and effort in
building is definitely 3-el. Hi-Z verticals array. It will fit to 15x15m
triangle lot and it will be hard to beat I guess.

GL 73 - Petr, OK1RP
http://160mband.blogspot.com

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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

Hello Bob,

The coax could be exposed to heat when in service as a balun, so I
would respectfully disagree with you on this one point.

If you exceed the bending radius of your coax, you stand a higher
percentage chance of causing a shield to center connector short, (due
to center conductor migration), than if you don't exceed the bend
radius.  When running high power, you also stand a better chance of
heating up your core material, (and hence your coax), which makes it
easier for the center conductor to migrate, and if you have exceeded
the bend radius-- well--  we're pretty sure where it will migrate
too...

One has to pick one's fights so to speak, and I would not pick bending
radius as one of my fights...  

If you lose, it is never good when the center conductor shorts to the
shield at Kilowatt power levels.  Use loops large enough to stay within
the bending radius of your coax.  Now if this is QRP, you could
probably get away with it.

-- 
73's, and thanks,
Dave

For software/hardware reviews see:
http://www.nk7z.net

For MixW support see:
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/mixw/info

For SSTV help see:
http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/MM-SSTV/info



On Tue, 2016-02-09 at 09:01 -0600, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:
> I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's
> 
> Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style
> bobbin 
> is typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an 
> airplane, boat or space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax
> such 
> as RG-303 would not seem to be of concern.  The more important point
> and 
> my experience and as related by others, the use of coax which has
> foam 
> dielectric in a tight radius bend has been proven or shown to be 
> problematic.As to if the manufactures bending radius dimension
> is 
> being violated, I find to be of little concern.
> 
> After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit
> and 
> then some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the 
> rules 100% in all aspects of their stations"I'd say 75%
> of 
> the stuff we use and methods employed would put most of the station 
> stuff in the trash.
> 
> 73
> Bob, K4TAX
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
> > Hi Bob, et al,
> > 
> > Thank you all for your careful attention.
> > 
> > I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I
> > transposed that
> > to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons
> > for
> > referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone
> > will get
> > it right.
> > 
> > That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change
> > the
> > argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement
> > instead of
> > watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with
> > other
> > performance specific measurements.
> > 
> > I still would not use the solid center conductor versions
> > (RG142/303) on a
> > winding.
> > 
> > 73, Guy K2AV
> > 
> > On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:
> > 
> > > Hi Guy,
> > > 
> > > I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure
> > > from the
> > > ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a
> > > given
> > > sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
> > > represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 73,
> > > 
> > > 
> > > Bob Nobis - N7RJN
> > > n7...@nobis.net 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV  > > > wrote:
> > > 
> > > 
> > > I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard
> > > until it is
> > > clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are
> > > actually
> > > measuring:
> > > 
> > > http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007
> > > .pdf
> > > 
> > > The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a
> > > limit of
> > > 1% surface deformity when bending.
> > > 
> > > In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of
> > > an inch
> > > (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending
> > > deformity
> > > at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an
> > > average
> > > human hair.
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> 
> 
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Help:

Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] DATA A Digital Modes

2016-02-09 Thread David Anderson

Great news Joel!

Yes I use one of VE7FMN's excellent heat sinks, it was an earlier one than the 
Plus model, and It fitted perfectly and looks and acts the part. 

I do advise doing the temperature compensation, you will need it for modes like 
JT65B. If you don't have the XG50 you can use a harmonic of a 10 MHz TCXO or 
GPS locked source. The exact frequency does not matter, just the stability 
during the temperature calibration procedure. Once done you won't have to worry 
about drift. 

There is a way to tell if the temperature compensation has been done. The menu 
item REF?CAL will be shown as REF*CAL if it has been done.


73 from David GM4JJJ

> On 9 Feb 2016, at 11:35, Joel Black  wrote:
> 
> David,
> 
> Once again, thanks for the help.
> 
> I had my transmit audio too high. Thanks to you and my KE7X KX3 book, I reset 
> my audio in and out of the radio and got consistent transmit output. I think 
> the ringing I was hearing was from me overdriving my transmit audio and 
> hearing it and the monitor on the sound card. I was actually receiving on the 
> sound card what I was transmitting. In KE7X’s book, he recommends setting the 
> audio to LINE IN (@ 50%) to KX3 phones (AF ~ 20 - 30) and LINE OUT (@ 10%) to 
> KX3 mic (Mic Gain = initially 0). I finally wound up with a Mic Gain of about 
> 20 - 21 and could see solid output with the ALC and Wattmeter on the KX3.
> 
> I *do* have the standard heatsink and, as far as I know, the temperature 
> compensation has *not* been done on this radio. At least I didn’t do it and I 
> don’t think the previous owner did it either. I’ve looked at the heatsinks 
> and will probably buy the Cooler KX Plus from VE7FMN. I just haven’t sat down 
> and ordered it. Is there any one particular you recommend?
> 
> Thank you for the advice on *unchecking* flatten in WSJT-X. I do have the 
> filter widened out to at *least* 3.0 kHz and sometimes run it on out to 4.0 
> kHz.
> 
> Again, I think the ringing on transmit was from me overdriving and hearing 
> both the transmit audio and monitor audio at the same time on the sound card. 
> With the transmit audio now set correctly, I no longer hear the ringing I was 
> hearing previously.
> 
> Thanks again for the help and advice.
> 
> 73,
> Joel - W4JBB
> 
>> On Feb 8, 2016, at 11:58 AM, David Anderson  wrote:
>> 
>> Joel,
>> 
>> A few questions for you:
>> 
>> Can you tell what the transmit audio sounds like by listening using monitor 
>> on the KX3? If you have hum or low or distorted audio or something that 
>> should tell you.
>> 
>> Have you the standard heatsink? 
>> 
>> If you have sufficient transmit AF going into the KX3 the power should be 
>> stable. Start with a low level of audio, because if it is too high it will 
>> shut down and this can cause confusion as you think it may be too low.
>> 
>> In WSJT-X you get a strange looking spectrum if you have the flatten spectra 
>> selected. This is because of the sharp sided filter in the KX3. Untick that 
>> option. I presume you have widened the filter out in the KX3 for DATA A.
>> 
>> What do you mean by ringing on the transmission?
>> 
>> Looking forward to hearing how you are doing.
>> 
>> Good luck.
>> 
>> 73 from David GM4JJJ
>> 
>>> On 7 Feb 2016, at 23:07, Joel Black  wrote:
>>> 
>>> Need a little help here - or at least someone to tell me if this is normal 
>>> for the conditions or not.
>>> 
>>> I usually use my K3 connected to a Focusrite 2i2 external sound card for 
>>> digital modes. I use a Mac - OS X 10.11.3. It works very well and I like it 
>>> (the 2i2) even better than the previous USB sound card I used.
>>> 
>>> Yesterday, I got a wild hair and decided to test the KX3 with the 2i2 using 
>>> WSJT-X for JT65. I connected the KX3 mic to line out and the speakers to 
>>> line in on the 2i2. The first thing I noticed was the audio seems really 
>>> low when trying to listen through the sound card to receive audio. Now, 
>>> this may just be where I’m trying to monitor the receive audio - from the 
>>> monitor jack on the front. I also noticed a large spike with a dip and then 
>>> another smaller spike before leveling out on the waterfall display of 
>>> WSJT-X. I have *no* audio interface going into the sound card from the KX3 
>>> so I’m wondering if this is a ground loop issue. I do not have this issue 
>>> with my K3 and I have no way to connect a ground to my computer other than 
>>> to use a self-tapping screw and drill a hole in the case which I am not 
>>> going to do - forget it. Unless you have an iMac, you won’t understand. I 
>>> switched between LINE and INSTRUMENT on the inputs of the 2i2 but didn’t 
>>> get much of a change. I did *not* try turning on the 48V phantom power on 
>>> the inputs. From all I can research and look at on the case, there is no 
>>> “ground-lift” switch on the 2i2.
>>> 
>>> On the transmit side, I never could set the ALC to four bars with the fifth

Re: [Elecraft] No Waterfall Display in FLDIGI when KX3 is in DATA mode

2016-02-09 Thread David Anderson

Steve,

In DATA A have you adjusted the bandwidth of the filter? It may be set too 
narrow. I can't think of any other reason why USB should work in RX and not 
DATA A.

You are in DATA A not some other DATA mode? Again that would explain why you 
are not getting any output in transmit. 


73 from David GM4JJJ

> On 7 Feb 2016, at 19:26, Steve Watkins  wrote:
> 
> I recently connected my KX3 with a Signaling  USB interface and using FLDIGI 
> on my Macbook Pro.
> 
> I was NOT receiving any signals on the waterfall display when I was in the 
> DATA mode recommended in the KX3 Owners Manual.  However, I was able to 
> receive signals if I switched to USB.
> 
> I was able to transmit and control the ALC to 4-5 bars with the Signalink  
> only if I was in USB but it didn’t have any affect if in DATA mode .
> 
> Two questions:
> 
> 1.  Is there something obvious in my settings (maybe in FLDIGI ?) that allows 
> me to receive nice signals on the waterfall in USB mode but not in the KX3’s 
> data mode?
> 
> 2. Is it (OK) to communicate in PSK31 mode with the KX3 in USB as long as my 
> transmit ALC is kept to 3-5 bars?
> 
> 
> Any suggestions would be much appreciated, as I’m tearing my hair out (what’s 
> left of it)
> 
> NE7RD
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Re: [Elecraft] KIO3B Upgrade Kit for the K3


Rob,

Did you set the CONFIG: RS232 to USB?  You should then be able to get 
K3Utility to communicate with the K3 over USB.
Once you accomplish that, you should be able to download the new 
firmware through the USB port.


If that does not work, set the switch on the back of the board to the 
RS-232 position and connect the PC (with a USB to serial adapter) to the 
dongle provided with the upgrade kit - be sure to set the RS-232 menu 
parameter back to 38400 to use RS-232.


I recall that firmware 4.86 is before the memory slots for the TX Gain 
data was moved, so be sure to run TX Gain Calibration after the firmware 
upgrade.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/8/2016 10:41 PM, ROBERT KIMPEL wrote:

I just completed the install of the KI03 update to my K3 SN 4843 and guess 
what? I forgot to update the firmware to the latest version (4.86 now). The PC 
won’t talk to the K3 through the USB! Do I need to restore the old boards and 
then update? I am watching for your HELP!
Rob, KJ6ILO
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Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] DATA A Digital Modes

2016-02-09 Thread Joel Black

David,

Once again, thanks for the help.

I had my transmit audio too high. Thanks to you and my KE7X KX3 book, I reset 
my audio in and out of the radio and got consistent transmit output. I think 
the ringing I was hearing was from me overdriving my transmit audio and hearing 
it and the monitor on the sound card. I was actually receiving on the sound 
card what I was transmitting. In KE7X’s book, he recommends setting the audio 
to LINE IN (@ 50%) to KX3 phones (AF ~ 20 - 30) and LINE OUT (@ 10%) to KX3 mic 
(Mic Gain = initially 0). I finally wound up with a Mic Gain of about 20 - 21 
and could see solid output with the ALC and Wattmeter on the KX3.

I *do* have the standard heatsink and, as far as I know, the temperature 
compensation has *not* been done on this radio. At least I didn’t do it and I 
don’t think the previous owner did it either. I’ve looked at the heatsinks and 
will probably buy the Cooler KX Plus from VE7FMN. I just haven’t sat down and 
ordered it. Is there any one particular you recommend?

Thank you for the advice on *unchecking* flatten in WSJT-X. I do have the 
filter widened out to at *least* 3.0 kHz and sometimes run it on out to 4.0 kHz.

Again, I think the ringing on transmit was from me overdriving and hearing both 
the transmit audio and monitor audio at the same time on the sound card. With 
the transmit audio now set correctly, I no longer hear the ringing I was 
hearing previously.

Thanks again for the help and advice.

73,
Joel - W4JBB

> On Feb 8, 2016, at 11:58 AM, David Anderson  wrote:
> 
> Joel,
> 
> A few questions for you:
> 
> Can you tell what the transmit audio sounds like by listening using monitor 
> on the KX3? If you have hum or low or distorted audio or something that 
> should tell you.
> 
> Have you the standard heatsink? 
> 
> If you have sufficient transmit AF going into the KX3 the power should be 
> stable. Start with a low level of audio, because if it is too high it will 
> shut down and this can cause confusion as you think it may be too low.
> 
> In WSJT-X you get a strange looking spectrum if you have the flatten spectra 
> selected. This is because of the sharp sided filter in the KX3. Untick that 
> option. I presume you have widened the filter out in the KX3 for DATA A.
> 
> What do you mean by ringing on the transmission?
> 
> Looking forward to hearing how you are doing.
> 
> Good luck.
> 
> 73 from David GM4JJJ
> 
>> On 7 Feb 2016, at 23:07, Joel Black  wrote:
>> 
>> Need a little help here - or at least someone to tell me if this is normal 
>> for the conditions or not.
>> 
>> I usually use my K3 connected to a Focusrite 2i2 external sound card for 
>> digital modes. I use a Mac - OS X 10.11.3. It works very well and I like it 
>> (the 2i2) even better than the previous USB sound card I used.
>> 
>> Yesterday, I got a wild hair and decided to test the KX3 with the 2i2 using 
>> WSJT-X for JT65. I connected the KX3 mic to line out and the speakers to 
>> line in on the 2i2. The first thing I noticed was the audio seems really low 
>> when trying to listen through the sound card to receive audio. Now, this may 
>> just be where I’m trying to monitor the receive audio - from the monitor 
>> jack on the front. I also noticed a large spike with a dip and then another 
>> smaller spike before leveling out on the waterfall display of WSJT-X. I have 
>> *no* audio interface going into the sound card from the KX3 so I’m wondering 
>> if this is a ground loop issue. I do not have this issue with my K3 and I 
>> have no way to connect a ground to my computer other than to use a 
>> self-tapping screw and drill a hole in the case which I am not going to do - 
>> forget it. Unless you have an iMac, you won’t understand. I switched between 
>> LINE and INSTRUMENT on the inputs of the 2i2 but didn’t get much of a 
>> change. I did *not* try turning on the 48V phantom power on the inputs. From 
>> all I can research and look at on the case, there is no “ground-lift” switch 
>> on the 2i2.
>> 
>> On the transmit side, I never could set the ALC to four bars with the fifth 
>> just flickering *and* keep output at 5 W. The power would dip down to about 
>> 3 W and then go back up to 5W. In addition, there seemed to be a little 
>> ringing when transmitting.
>> 
>> Now the KX3 is not my main radio, my K3 is. This is not an issue with the 
>> K3, but I’d like to see this work with the KX3. I know it works because 
>> others have made the KX3 work on JT65 with WSJT-X. Is there anything else I 
>> should try before building an audio isolation circuit? Some setting I’m 
>> missing? Something I haven’t done correctly?
>> 
>> Thanks for the help.
>> 
>> 73,
>> Joel - W4JBB
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Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Safety feature?


Kevin,

I don't really know what happens if you try to swap VFOs while transmitting.
It is quite likely that the power would drop, and behavior would be as 
you are seeing it.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/8/2016 10:06 PM, kevino z wrote:

It is a rigctl command to clear SPLIT mode.

*S,* *set_split_vfo* Set split mode, 0 or 1, and transmit VFO.
S 0 VFOA turns off split mode and sets transmit VFO to VFO A
So I guess the better question is if you are in split mode, and 
transmitting (VFO B), and the KX3 gets a command to turn off split 
mode, and go to VFO A, what happens?

Does it keep transmitting but now on VFO A frequency ?

Troubleshooting issues with WSJT-X and just trying to understand what 
is happening under the hood.


-Kevin (KK4YEL)


On Feb 8, 2016, at 21:04, Don Wilhelm > wrote:



I do not see the "S 0 VFO" command in the K3/KX3 programmer's reference.
Is this a command that is being issued to some logging program?
If so, that may be a condition of the logging program (or a bug).

73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/8/2016 8:43 PM, kevino z wrote:
I noticed if my KX3 is in split mode, and transmitting, and the 
commandS 0 VFOA. Is issued, the power level drops to zero. The 
very next time the transmission starts again, the power slowly 
increases from zero to whatever wattage I had set for power out. Is 
this some sort of safety feature?


-Kevin (KK4YEL)

No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, a 
large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced !

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[Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Clay Autery

As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio
License with General privileges.

Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this possible.  I am
quite happy and yes, a little proud, too.

In just a few hours, I will take possession of my Elecraft K3s and P3
components.
I have two super selfless, super-experienced, super-patient operators
who've taken an interest in me.
And I have TWO local clubs available to me from whose members I can
learn and through which I can contribute to the hobby and my community.

My cup truly runneth over...  Thank you, Lord!

73,
Clay, KG5LKV

On 2/9/2016 9:06 AM, Robert Nobis wrote:
> Hi Bob McGraw,
>
> I agree, except on one point: I’s say 90%, rather than 75%, of the stuff we 
> use and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.
>
> 73,
>
>
> Bob Nobis - N7RJN
> n7...@nobis.net
>
>
>> On Feb 9, 2016, at 08:01, Bob McGraw K4TAX  wrote:
>>
>> I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's
>>
>> Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style bobbin is 
>> typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an airplane, boat 
>> or space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax such as RG-303 would not 
>> seem to be of concern.  The more important point and my experience and as 
>> related by others, the use of coax which has foam dielectric in a tight 
>> radius bend has been proven or shown to be problematic.As to if the 
>> manufactures bending radius dimension is being violated, I find to be of 
>> little concern.
>>
>> After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit and 
>> then some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the rules 
>> 100% in all aspects of their stations"I'd say 75% of the stuff 
>> we use and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.
>>
>> 73
>> Bob, K4TAX
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
>>> Hi Bob, et al,
>>>
>>> Thank you all for your careful attention.
>>>
>>> I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I transposed that
>>> to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons for
>>> referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone will get
>>> it right.
>>>
>>> That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change the
>>> argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement instead of
>>> watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with other
>>> performance specific measurements.
>>>
>>> I still would not use the solid center conductor versions (RG142/303) on a
>>> winding.
>>>
>>> 73, Guy K2AV
>>>
>>> On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:
>>>
 Hi Guy,

 I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure from the
 ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a given
 sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
 represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”


 73,


 Bob Nobis - N7RJN
 n7...@nobis.net 


 On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV > wrote:


 I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard until it is
 clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are actually
 measuring:

 http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007.pdf

 The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a limit of
 1% surface deformity when bending.

 In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of an inch
 (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending deformity
 at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an average
 human hair.






>>
>> __
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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

If one has heating issues to that magnitude, they have other more critical 
issues which should be addressed. 

Bob, K4TAX


Sent from my iPhone

> On Feb 9, 2016, at 9:24 AM, Dave Cole  wrote:
> 
> Hello Bob,
> 
> The coax could be exposed to heat when in service as a balun, so I
> would respectfully disagree with you on this one point.
> 
> If you exceed the bending radius of your coax, you stand a higher
> percentage chance of causing a shield to center connector short, (due
> to center conductor migration), than if you don't exceed the bend
> radius.  When running high power, you also stand a better chance of
> heating up your core material, (and hence your coax), which makes it
> easier for the center conductor to migrate, and if you have exceeded
> the bend radius-- well--  we're pretty sure where it will migrate
> too...
> 
> One has to pick one's fights so to speak, and I would not pick bending
> radius as one of my fights...  
> 
> If you lose, it is never good when the center conductor shorts to the
> shield at Kilowatt power levels.  Use loops large enough to stay within
> the bending radius of your coax.  Now if this is QRP, you could
> probably get away with it.
> 
> -- 
> 73's, and thanks,
> Dave
> 
> For software/hardware reviews see:
> http://www.nk7z.net
> 
> For MixW support see:
> https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/mixw/info
> 
> For SSTV help see:
> http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/MM-SSTV/info
> 
> 
> 
>> On Tue, 2016-02-09 at 09:01 -0600, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:
>> I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's
>> 
>> Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style
>> bobbin 
>> is typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an 
>> airplane, boat or space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax
>> such 
>> as RG-303 would not seem to be of concern.  The more important point
>> and 
>> my experience and as related by others, the use of coax which has
>> foam 
>> dielectric in a tight radius bend has been proven or shown to be 
>> problematic.As to if the manufactures bending radius dimension
>> is 
>> being violated, I find to be of little concern.
>> 
>> After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit
>> and 
>> then some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the 
>> rules 100% in all aspects of their stations"I'd say 75%
>> of 
>> the stuff we use and methods employed would put most of the station 
>> stuff in the trash.
>> 
>> 73
>> Bob, K4TAX
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
>>> Hi Bob, et al,
>>> 
>>> Thank you all for your careful attention.
>>> 
>>> I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I
>>> transposed that
>>> to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons
>>> for
>>> referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone
>>> will get
>>> it right.
>>> 
>>> That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change
>>> the
>>> argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement
>>> instead of
>>> watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with
>>> other
>>> performance specific measurements.
>>> 
>>> I still would not use the solid center conductor versions
>>> (RG142/303) on a
>>> winding.
>>> 
>>> 73, Guy K2AV
>>> 
 On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:
 
 Hi Guy,
 
 I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure
 from the
 ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a
 given
 sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
 represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”
 
 
 73,
 
 
 Bob Nobis - N7RJN
 n7...@nobis.net 
 
 
 On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV > wrote:
 
 
 I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard
 until it is
 clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are
 actually
 measuring:
 
 http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007
 .pdf
 
 The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a
 limit of
 1% surface deformity when bending.
 
 In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of
 an inch
 (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending
 deformity
 at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an
 average
 human hair.
>> 
>> 
>> __
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>> Please help support this

Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

Congratulations Clay!  You have picked a very good radio, and a very
good hobby as well...  Have fun, and welcome, hope to work you soon!
-- 
73's, and thanks,
Dave

For software/hardware reviews see:
http://www.nk7z.net

For MixW support see:
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/mixw/info

For SSTV help see:
http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/MM-SSTV/info



On Tue, 2016-02-09 at 09:57 -0600, Clay Autery wrote:
> As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio
> License with General privileges.
> 
> Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this possible.  I am
> quite happy and yes, a little proud, too.
> 
> In just a few hours, I will take possession of my Elecraft K3s and P3
> components.
> I have two super selfless, super-experienced, super-patient operators
> who've taken an interest in me.
> And I have TWO local clubs available to me from whose members I can
> learn and through which I can contribute to the hobby and my
> community.
> 
> My cup truly runneth over...  Thank you, Lord!
> 
> 73,
> Clay, KG5LKV
> 
> On 2/9/2016 9:06 AM, Robert Nobis wrote:
> > Hi Bob McGraw,
> > 
> > I agree, except on one point: I’s say 90%, rather than 75%, of the
> > stuff we use and methods employed would put most of the station
> > stuff in the trash.
> > 
> > 73,
> > 
> > 
> > Bob Nobis - N7RJN
> > n7...@nobis.net
> > 
> > 
> > > On Feb 9, 2016, at 08:01, Bob McGraw K4TAX 
> > > wrote:
> > > 
> > > I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's
> > > 
> > > Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style
> > > bobbin is typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist
> > > in an airplane, boat or space vehicle, the use of a solid
> > > conductor coax such as RG-303 would not seem to be of
> > > concern.  The more important point and my experience and as
> > > related by others, the use of coax which has foam dielectric in a
> > > tight radius bend has been proven or shown to be
> > > problematic.As to if the manufactures bending radius
> > > dimension is being violated, I find to be of little concern.
> > > 
> > > After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the
> > > limit and then some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to
> > > "stick to the rules 100% in all aspects of their
> > > stations"I'd say 75% of the stuff we use and methods
> > > employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.
> > > 
> > > 73
> > > Bob, K4TAX
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
> > > > Hi Bob, et al,
> > > > 
> > > > Thank you all for your careful attention.
> > > > 
> > > > I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I
> > > > transposed that
> > > > to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the
> > > > reasons for
> > > > referring people to the original material in these cases.
> > > > Someone will get
> > > > it right.
> > > > 
> > > > That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to
> > > > change the
> > > > argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement
> > > > instead of
> > > > watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along
> > > > with other
> > > > performance specific measurements.
> > > > 
> > > > I still would not use the solid center conductor versions
> > > > (RG142/303) on a
> > > > winding.
> > > > 
> > > > 73, Guy K2AV
> > > > 
> > > > On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis 
> > > > wrote:
> > > > 
> > > > > Hi Guy,
> > > > > 
> > > > > I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch”
> > > > > figure from the
> > > > > ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a
> > > > > given
> > > > > sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (>
> > > > > 0.010)
> > > > > represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”
> > > > > 
> > > > > 
> > > > > 73,
> > > > > 
> > > > > 
> > > > > Bob Nobis - N7RJN
> > > > > n7...@nobis.net  > > > > ');>
> > > > > 
> > > > > 
> > > > > On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV  > > > > m
> > > > > > wrote:
> > > > > 
> > > > > 
> > > > > I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI
> > > > > standard until it is
> > > > > clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are
> > > > > actually
> > > > > measuring:
> > > > > 
> > > > > http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%20
> > > > > 2007.pdf
> > > > > 
> > > > > The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for
> > > > > a limit of
> > > > > 1% surface deformity when bending.
> > > > > 
> > > > > In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000
> > > > > of an inch
> > > > > (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch)
> > > > > bending deformity
> > > > > at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of
> > > > > an average
> > > > >

Re: [Elecraft] Competition from ICOM?

2016-02-09 Thread Petr, OK1RP/M0SIS

Bill,

it seems to be different level. Nothing to compare to K3 I guess.
Will see...

73 - Petr, OK1RP



-
http://ok1rp.blogspot.com
--
View this message in context: 
http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Competition-from-ICOM-tp7613789p7613794.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

Congratulations on all points. 

Bob, K4TAX


Sent from my iPhone

> On Feb 9, 2016, at 9:57 AM, Clay Autery  wrote:
> 
> As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio
> License with General privileges.
> 
> Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this possible.  I am
> quite happy and yes, a little proud, too.
> 
> In just a few hours, I will take possession of my Elecraft K3s and P3
> components.
> I have two super selfless, super-experienced, super-patient operators
> who've taken an interest in me.
> And I have TWO local clubs available to me from whose members I can
> learn and through which I can contribute to the hobby and my community.
> 
> My cup truly runneth over...  Thank you, Lord!
> 
> 73,
> Clay, KG5LKV
> 
>> On 2/9/2016 9:06 AM, Robert Nobis wrote:
>> Hi Bob McGraw,
>> 
>> I agree, except on one point: I’s say 90%, rather than 75%, of the stuff we 
>> use and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.
>> 
>> 73,
>> 
>> 
>> Bob Nobis - N7RJN
>> n7...@nobis.net
>> 
>> 
>>> On Feb 9, 2016, at 08:01, Bob McGraw K4TAX  wrote:
>>> 
>>> I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's
>>> 
>>> Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style bobbin is 
>>> typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an airplane, 
>>> boat or space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax such as RG-303 
>>> would not seem to be of concern.  The more important point and my 
>>> experience and as related by others, the use of coax which has foam 
>>> dielectric in a tight radius bend has been proven or shown to be 
>>> problematic.As to if the manufactures bending radius dimension is being 
>>> violated, I find to be of little concern.
>>> 
>>> After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit and 
>>> then some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the rules 
>>> 100% in all aspects of their stations"I'd say 75% of the stuff 
>>> we use and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the 
>>> trash.
>>> 
>>> 73
>>> Bob, K4TAX
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
 On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
 Hi Bob, et al,
 
 Thank you all for your careful attention.
 
 I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I transposed that
 to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons for
 referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone will get
 it right.
 
 That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change the
 argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement instead of
 watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with other
 performance specific measurements.
 
 I still would not use the solid center conductor versions (RG142/303) on a
 winding.
 
 73, Guy K2AV
 
> On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:
> 
> Hi Guy,
> 
> I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure from the
> ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a given
> sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
> represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”
> 
> 
> 73,
> 
> 
> Bob Nobis - N7RJN
> n7...@nobis.net 
> 
> 
> On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV  > wrote:
> 
> 
> I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard until it is
> clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are actually
> measuring:
> 
> http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007.pdf
> 
> The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a limit of
> 1% surface deformity when bending.
> 
> In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of an inch
> (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending 
> deformity
> at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an average
> human hair.
>>> 
>>> __
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>>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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>>> Message delivered to n7...@nobis.net
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>> Please help

Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Ken G Kopp

Congrats Clay!!

I remember getting my ticket in the PO box in September, 1951.  I owe
virtually everything in my life to the hobby!

73

Ken Kopp - K0PP
elecraftcov...@gmail.com
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Re: [Elecraft] KIO3B Upgrade Kit for the K3

2016-02-09 Thread ROB KIMPEL

Thanks for the answer, guys! That helped! !

On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Don Wilhelm  wrote:

> Rob,
>
> Did you set the CONFIG: RS232 to USB?  You should then be able to get
> K3Utility to communicate with the K3 over USB.
> Once you accomplish that, you should be able to download the new firmware
> through the USB port.
>
> If that does not work, set the switch on the back of the board to the
> RS-232 position and connect the PC (with a USB to serial adapter) to the
> dongle provided with the upgrade kit - be sure to set the RS-232 menu
> parameter back to 38400 to use RS-232.
>
> I recall that firmware 4.86 is before the memory slots for the TX Gain
> data was moved, so be sure to run TX Gain Calibration after the firmware
> upgrade.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 2/8/2016 10:41 PM, ROBERT KIMPEL wrote:
>
>> I just completed the install of the KI03 update to my K3 SN 4843 and
>> guess what? I forgot to update the firmware to the latest version (4.86
>> now). The PC won’t talk to the K3 through the USB! Do I need to restore the
>> old boards and then update? I am watching for your HELP!
>> Rob, KJ6ILO
>> __
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>>
>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] [Bulk] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Tom McCulloch


Welcome aboard, Clay!  Congratulations on your achievement

Tom , WB2QDG
K2 #1103


On 2/9/2016 10:57 AM, Clay Autery wrote:

As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio
License with General privileges.

Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this possible.  I am
quite happy and yes, a little proud, too.

In just a few hours, I will take possession of my Elecraft K3s and P3
components.
I have two super selfless, super-experienced, super-patient operators
who've taken an interest in me.
And I have TWO local clubs available to me from whose members I can
learn and through which I can contribute to the hobby and my community.

My cup truly runneth over...  Thank you, Lord!

73,
Clay, KG5LKV

On 2/9/2016 9:06 AM, Robert Nobis wrote:

Hi Bob McGraw,

I agree, except on one point: I’s say 90%, rather than 75%, of the stuff we use 
and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.

73,


Bob Nobis - N7RJN
n7...@nobis.net



On Feb 9, 2016, at 08:01, Bob McGraw K4TAX  wrote:

I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's

Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style bobbin is 
typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an airplane, boat or 
space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax such as RG-303 would not seem 
to be of concern.  The more important point and my experience and as related by 
others, the use of coax which has foam dielectric in a tight radius bend has 
been proven or shown to be problematic.As to if the manufactures bending 
radius dimension is being violated, I find to be of little concern.

After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit and then some and 
getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the rules 100% in all aspects of 
their stations"I'd say 75% of the stuff we use and methods employed 
would put most of the station stuff in the trash.

73
Bob, K4TAX





On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:

Hi Bob, et al,

Thank you all for your careful attention.

I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I transposed that
to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the reasons for
referring people to the original material in these cases. Someone will get
it right.

That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change the
argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement instead of
watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable along with other
performance specific measurements.

I still would not use the solid center conductor versions (RG142/303) on a
winding.

73, Guy K2AV

On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:


Hi Guy,

I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure from the
ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality from a given
sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or more (> 0.010)
represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”


73,


Bob Nobis - N7RJN
n7...@nobis.net 


On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV > wrote:


I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard until it is
clear what they are doing mechanically and see what they are actually
measuring:

http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007.pdf

The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a limit of
1% surface deformity when bending.

In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of an inch
(yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) bending deformity
at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the thickness of an average
human hair.







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--

In democracy it’s your vote that counts; In feudalism it’s your count that 
votes.

Re: [Elecraft] Competition from ICOM?

2016-02-09 Thread Joe Subich, W4TV




I really don't see it as being K3s competition, a more apt comparison
being TS-590 and FT-1200. Icom has been quite clear that this will be
an entry level radio only.


I don't know that the TS-590 and FT-1200 are in the same class.

However, if the IC-7300 can pull off performance levels similar to the
TS-590S/TS-590SG it will be an outstanding "entry level" radio.  Icom's
initial claims for phase noise look to be among some of the best of
any rig (close to that of the K3S/"new synthesizer") and I plan to look
very closely at the IC-7300 at Orlando this weekend to replace the old
IC-706mkIIg as my Icom CI-V "test subject."

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2/9/2016 10:26 AM, Barry N1EU wrote:

I've been closely following the IC-7300 news because I'm a big fan of
direct sampling receivers.  It's still too early to tell how well Icom will
pull it off.  I really don't see it as being K3s competition, a more apt
comparison being TS-590 and FT-1200.  Icom has been quite clear that
this will be an entry level radio only.

I suspect that compared to the K3s, the IC-7300 will fall short in terms of
dynamic range, QSK, etc.

73, Barry N1EU

On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 10:16 AM, Bill  wrote:


Icom is about to release their IC-7300 with rx from .03 to 74.8 mHz, with
a live display, auto tuner, 100 Watts, 15 included bandpass filters, and a
direct sampling receiver. All this for under $1500 street. I wonder how it
will compare to the K3 in performance.

I am not looking to get an argument going on this - just stating what is
out there on the horizon. Who knows, it could turnout to be hangar queen or
a frequent flyer on UPS. That said, it sure looks like a lot of rig for the
buck.

Bill W2BLC K-Line

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Re: [Elecraft] Balun suggestions

2016-02-09 Thread Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft


Guys - please take this off reflector until you are in agreement.

73

Eric
List Moderator
/elecraft.com/

On 2/5/2016 8:15 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote:

Gee, Wes. It's only basic RF engineering.

If you'd care to be specific about any objection, please do so. I'll be glad
to get into details on or off the reflector.

73, Ron AC7AC

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Wes
(N7WS)
Sent: Thursday, February 4, 2016 4:18 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Balun suggestions

I just pinched myself; I'm not dreaming and it's not April 1st, so I guess
you're serious.

You are also so wrong on so many points, I'm not going to waste time trying
to refute or correct them.

Jim, please ignore everything said below.

Wes  N7WS



On 2/4/2016 3:05 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote:

Your feed line will do the job by itself so no additional "balun" is

needed.

Keep in mind that a 1:1 balun is really just a length of feed line,
usually wound on a toroidal core to make the required length shorter
than if it was in open air. The "old-school" baluns were just a pair of

air wound coils.

If your balanced feed line is at least 1/4 wavelength long, the
currents will be "balanced" (equal and out of phase) at the antenna.
That assumes your antenna is perfectly balanced to provide a perfectly
balanced load, which "balanced" antennas almost never do. There are
just too many variables. So expect excellent results even with shorter
feed lines. The amount of radiation (or pickup) from the feed line
even at the rig end is small in any case.

Connect one side of the open wire feed line to the KAT100 SO-239
center pin and the other to the KAT100 ground terminal.

73, Ron AC7AC



-Original Message-
K2/100 and KAT100 here.

I am changing around my modest antenna configuration now.  I have been
using the K2/100 with my AH-4, and now wish to use the KAT100 with
balanced feedline antennas.

What balun, homebrew or commercial, if any, should I use?  I almost
always run 5 watts, all CW.

73 de W6OGC Jim Allen


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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

Which works great if the antenna is supposed to be resonant on one or 
more bands.


On 2/9/2016 12:22 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:
In general hams will construct the antenna and then trim the length 
{add or subtract length}  to get the SWR value to 1:1 or such. 


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Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Walter Underwood

Even though I have an EE degree, focusing on signals and systems, I had to do 
some studying for Amateur Extra.

I used an iPhone app to try tests in random spare moments. I also recommend 
KB6NU’s “No-Nonsense” study guides. He’s posting on his blog as he goes through 
the changes in the Extra question pool, section by section.

http://www.kb6nu.com/study-guides/ 
http://www.kb6nu.com/   (blog)

Welcome to the international fellowship of amateur radio.

wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog)

> On Feb 9, 2016, at 11:29 AM, Clay Autery  wrote:
> 
> To Jim:
> 
> If I can get my life to settle down a bit, I plan to inhale the Extra
> information and test on February 20th at one of my local clubs.
> I took it blind on the same day I took the General, but missed passing
> it by a few questions which I don't mind...  I'd rather
> take/pass/ace it after I feel better about having mastered the required
> information.
> 
> To ALL:
> 
> Thank you all for the Congrats, well wishes, the stories, and everything
> else.  I love that something so basic as communication can draw and bind
> together such a broad population, the young and old, rich and poor, next
> door or literally half-way 'round the globe.
> 
> I've spent a good deal of my life choosing up sides in conflicts...
> sometimes even wearing a distinctive suit to denote which side I was on
> and carrying weapons to drive home my point.
> 
> I'd like to finish out my time, however long that might be, enjoying
> people and hopefully being a help.
> 
> I think this might be one way to make that happen.
> 
> May you ALL be blessed beyond your capacity to contain.  May your
> harvest be so abundant that you provide seed for others to plant that we
> ALL may be fed.
> 
> Have a wonderful day!
> 
> __
> Clay Autery
> KG5LKV
> 
> On 2/9/2016 12:25 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
>> On Tue,2/9/2016 7:57 AM, Clay Autery wrote:
>>> As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio
>>> License with General privileges.
>> 
>> Congratulations, Clay. Previous posts from you make it clear that
>> you're quite competent technically, so I urge you to move ahead to
>> qualify for your Extra Class license. With your background and
>> study/review of the material, you should have little difficulty with it.
>> 
>> 73, Jim K9YC
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread Walter Underwood

First you get a 53’ wire, then cut the string to the same length. :-)

When I was cutting wires for SOTA use, I attached one end to something that 
wouldn’t move, hooked the end of my 25’ tape measure to the same spot, then 
stretched them both out. I marked the 25’ point on the wire, then repeated the 
procedure.

For HF, exact dimensions rarely work. Anything close to the wire, like trees or 
houses, will electrically shorten the wire thanks to the capacitance. So a wire 
can be different electrical lengths with leaves on and off a tree.

wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog)

> On Feb 9, 2016, at 1:12 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT 
>  wrote:
> 
> I shouldn't have said anything about antennas, or how I was feeding it.
> 
> How would you measure a string 53 feet long?
> 
> On 2/9/2016 11:56 AM, Heinz Bärtschi wrote:
>> The matching range of the KX3ATU is specified as "typ. 20:1".
>> 
> 
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[Elecraft] elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net

2016-02-09 Thread M Fred PEZOK

elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net 
Sincerely;

73's
M Fred Pezok (K3MFP)mfpe...@verizon.nets.E. PA., USA

"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the Security of a Free State, the 
Right of the People to KEEP and BEAR ARMS shall NOT be INFRINGED"
'  ARTICLE II of the BILL of RIGHTS  ' 
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread Fred Jensen


http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/cable-loads-d_1816.html

A wire supported at the ends and loaded uniformly only by its own weight 
will form a catenary, and mid-span sag is a function of mid-span 
tension.  Zero sag = infinite tension.  Unfortunately, center-fed 
dipoles are not uniformly loaded.


Just lay the wire out on the ground in a straight-ish line and measure 
it.  I use a 50' steel tape.  Lots of things will affect its ultimate 
electrical length when installed, you'll need to prune it some anyway. 
I just fold the ends back on the wire until I've got the right length 
and then cut it and belay it to the insulator(s).


73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the Cal QSO Party 1-2 Oct 2016
- www.cqp.org

On 2/9/2016 12:22 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:


The only challenge is to estimate
the wire sag in measuring a long length of wire.

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[Elecraft] closing out some K3S issues ("failed" 400Hz filters, failed KXUSB)

2016-02-09 Thread John Shadle

OK. I have to come clean and admit that despite more hours with a soldering
iron than I would care to count, I made a major error when I completed my
recent K3S build.

You know that REF CAL procedure where you zero beat WWV? Well... let's just
say that I somehow managed to set the oscillator to a value way out of the
expected range.

I swear I heard that slow beat note about 2Hz away from where the value
should have been, but now I don't know how. I re-did the REF CAL procedure
using 15MHz WWV today, and now things are hunky dory. The gents at Elecraft
provided too much kind support to help figure out my problem and I hope
they can forgive me for the time of theirs I wasted. :-)

Now, as for the KXUSB not communicating with my KAT500 -- that one is still
a mystery, but it appears to be an issue with a KXUSB instead of the KAT500
(whew!). I crafted a serial to stereo cable to connect the KAT500 to my
computer, and things worked just fine the first time. I hate to use that
serial port for this, but I may have to as the KXUSB is out of warranty
(purchased November 2014) despite its first use being last night. Ah well.

Thanks for listening, and I hope that this can be a lesson to each of you.
Take time on your builds. Don't stay up too late, or do things when you're
tired -- or you might completely mess up the REF CAL procedure and cause
your narrow filters to "fail".

73
-john NE4U
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Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] Extended VFO Temperature Compensation

2016-02-09 Thread Joel Black

Disregard my previous email. Apparently, the third time was the charm. I was 
able to complete the Extended VFO Temp Compensation finally.

Thanks,
Joel - W4JBB

> On Feb 9, 2016, at 2:03 PM, Joel Black  wrote:
> 
> I’m missing something here…
> 
> I am following the procedures in the above procedure, Rev A9, November 14, 
> 2012. I am currently using F/W version 2.37 on my KX3. I am on page 4 of the 
> procedure and am pretty sure I have followed the instructions verbatim. I 
> cannot get the CWT indicator to show.
> 
> Yep, I have auto spot turned on as indicated by the CWT on the display. The 
> pointer never comes up. I never hear a change in pitch either so I’m not sure 
> if any adjustments are being made. Yes, it did occur to me that no 
> adjustments may be necessary but without the CWT marker, I cannot be sure.
> 
> I am going to go through the procedure again and triple check that I didn’t 
> miss anything.
> 
> If anyone knows or remembers if the CWT indicator should not be there, that’s 
> fine. It’s just that what I’m seeing and what’s in the procedure are not 
> matching up.
> 
> Thanks,
> Joel - W4JBB

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Re: [Elecraft] K3S Kit #10641

2016-02-09 Thread W1GO (Joe)


Jim

Smart move not installing the sub receiver. It's a very tight fit and once in 
successfully you'll never want to remove it again. Ever. 

Congrats 

Joe
W1GO
K3S (10389)


> On Feb 9, 2016, at 14:40, Jim Sheldon  wrote:
> 
> K3S Kit build Serial# 10641 arrived Monday about 9:00 a.m.  Started the build 
> around 10:30 and continued through yesterday with a few breaks.  The build 
> was complete except for the P/A and Sub Receiver at about 9:45 last night.  I 
> completed the 5 watt power calibration, REF CAL and receiver RF Gain 
> calibrations and shut down for the night.  Installed the P/A module this 
> morning and ran the 50 watt TX Gain cal.  All passed with no issues.  I still 
> have the Sub Receiver to go, but my roofing filter set won't be complete 
> until the pair of 6.0 KHz filters arrives tomorrow from Elecraft so I'm 
> holding off on the Sub so I won't have to remove it to install the 6.0 KHz 
> filter on the main board.
> 
> This was an easy (though intricate) build and even with my somewhat impaired 
> vision, I had no problems with it other than a minor glitch in configuring 
> the filters to leave the FL1 slot open temporarily.  My suggestion to anyone 
> else needing to leave FL1 open (for later install of a wider filter and not 
> have to move everything around), use the K3/K3S utility's Filter 
> Configuration app to do this.  If you try from the front panel first and not 
> through the computer utility, it may or may not work right.
> 
> After a couple of tries with the MENU and then back to the Utility, 
> everything finally set up properly.  Now when the filters get here, I'll be 
> able to install the Sub RX and change out the older K3 for the K3S.
> 
> Jim - W0EB
> 
> ---
> This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
> https://www.avast.com/antivirus
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires


I asked the best way to measure a piece of wire 53' long.

On 2/9/2016 11:58 AM, Barry N1EU wrote:

A 53ft end-fed wire has a radiation pattern that varies all over the map as
you go up in frequency above 10MHz.


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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires


Lynn,

It depends on what kind of measuring sticks you have.

If you have a 100 foot tape measure, just pull out 53 feet and match the 
wire to that length - that is the way I do it.
If you only have a 50 foot tape, measure 25feet, 6 inches and double it 
back on itself.
If you have only a 25 foot tape, measure 18 inches from the end, put the 
end of the 25 foot tape at that point and measure out the remaining 25 
feet, then double it back on itself.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/9/2016 4:12 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT wrote:

I shouldn't have said anything about antennas, or how I was feeding it.

How would you measure a string 53 feet long?


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Re: [Elecraft] K3s & Rx antenna

2016-02-09 Thread Mike K2MK

Hi Gary,

I don't know if it's right or wrong to do it the way you described. I chose
to purchase a 2 port splitter from DX Engineering. Their part number is
DXE-RSC-2. I suppose there are cheaper alternatives.

http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/dxe-rsc-2

73,
Mike K2MK


Gary Smith-2 wrote
> My order is in Queue for a K3s. 
> 
> I currently have a K3 with sub Rx and have a HI-Z Rx antenna I use 
> with the K3. Sometimes I like listening with only the Rx antenna, 
> sometimes I like listening from the the Tx antenna. When I use 
> diversity I want to hear from both the Rx and main antennae.
> 
> With the K3, what I have done with the Rx coax is attach it to a T 
> connector with one end attached to the BNC connector {27} Aux RF, 
> located below ANT 2 and the other leg connected to the RX ANT - IN on 
> the KXV3.
> 
> Once I upgrade the two KBPF3 and Sub Rx board, I will migrate the Sub 
> RX to the K3s
> 
> With the K3s, how should I connect the RX antenna to be most 
> effective with the K3s & diversity? As I have it now?
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Gary
> KA1J





--
View this message in context: 
http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3s-Rx-antenna-tp7613833p7613837.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires


I shouldn't have said anything about antennas, or how I was feeding it.

How would you measure a string 53 feet long?

On 2/9/2016 11:56 AM, Heinz Bärtschi wrote:

The matching range of the KX3ATU is specified as "typ. 20:1".



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Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Ian - Ham

Congratulations, Clay! Welcome to the greatest hobby on earth. Hope to work you 
down the bands sometime.

73 de,

--Ian
Ian Kahn, KM4IK
Roswell, GA  EM74ua
km4ik@gmail.com
10-10 #74624, North Georgia Chapter #2038
PODXS 070 #1962
K3# 281, P3 #688, KAT500 #860, KPA500 #1468

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Clay 
Autery
Sent: Tuesday, February 9, 2016 10:58 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio License 
with General privileges.

Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this possible.  I am quite happy 
and yes, a little proud, too.

In just a few hours, I will take possession of my Elecraft K3s and P3 
components.
I have two super selfless, super-experienced, super-patient operators who've 
taken an interest in me.
And I have TWO local clubs available to me from whose members I can learn and 
through which I can contribute to the hobby and my community.

My cup truly runneth over...  Thank you, Lord!

73,
Clay, KG5LKV

On 2/9/2016 9:06 AM, Robert Nobis wrote:
> Hi Bob McGraw,
>
> I agree, except on one point: I’s say 90%, rather than 75%, of the stuff we 
> use and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.
>
> 73,
>
>
> Bob Nobis - N7RJN
> n7...@nobis.net
>
>
>> On Feb 9, 2016, at 08:01, Bob McGraw K4TAX  wrote:
>>
>> I'm one of the other Bob's or Robert's
>>
>> Since the assembly of coax wound around a toroid doughnut style bobbin is 
>> typically not exposed to vibration, such as might exist in an airplane, boat 
>> or space vehicle, the use of a solid conductor coax such as RG-303 would not 
>> seem to be of concern.  The more important point and my experience and as 
>> related by others, the use of coax which has foam dielectric in a tight 
>> radius bend has been proven or shown to be problematic.As to if the 
>> manufactures bending radius dimension is being violated, I find to be of 
>> little concern.
>>
>> After all, as a rule, hams are noted for pushing things to the limit and 
>> then some and getting buy with it.  If hams choose to "stick to the rules 
>> 100% in all aspects of their stations"I'd say 75% of the stuff 
>> we use and methods employed would put most of the station stuff in the trash.
>>
>> 73
>> Bob, K4TAX
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On 2/9/2016 8:45 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
>>> Hi Bob, et al,
>>>
>>> Thank you all for your careful attention.
>>>
>>> I read it wrong, as several have pointed out overnight. I transposed 
>>> that to a percentage in my memory after reading it. One of the 
>>> reasons for referring people to the original material in these 
>>> cases. Someone will get it right.
>>>
>>> That makes it two and a half hairs :>)  Doesn't appear to change the 
>>> argument. To me anyway the method is still a crude measurement 
>>> instead of watching a wide frequency scan while bending the cable 
>>> along with other performance specific measurements.
>>>
>>> I still would not use the solid center conductor versions 
>>> (RG142/303) on a winding.
>>>
>>> 73, Guy K2AV
>>>
>>> On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, Robert Nobis  wrote:
>>>
 Hi Guy,

 I am not sure how you arrived at the “2/1000 of an inch” figure 
 from the ANSI spec? The spec actually says “A change in ovality 
 from a given sample’s initial measured value of 0.010 inches or 
 more (> 0.010) represents the point of non-acceptable bending performance.”


 73,


 Bob Nobis - N7RJN
 n7...@nobis.net 


 On Feb 8, 2016, at 18:01, Guy Olinger K2AV > wrote:


 I also suggest that everyone carefully study the ANSI standard 
 until it is clear what they are doing mechanically and see what 
 they are actually
 measuring:

 http://www.scte.org/documents/pdf/standards/ANSI_SCTE%2039%202007.p
 df

 The method of measuring is in section 4. They are looking for a 
 limit of 1% surface deformity when bending.

 In the case of RG400 with .195 inch OD, that would be 2/1000 of an 
 inch (yes, that's three zeros, two one thousandths of an inch) 
 bending deformity at the surface of the teflon jacket, or half the 
 thickness of an average human hair.






>>
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>> n7...@nobis.net
>

[Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread P.J.Hicks

There is/was quite a long discussion and lots of experimentation with 9:1 unun 
and random wire lengths on the pQRP group in the last month or so. Check it 
out. 
PJH, N7PXY 
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[Elecraft] Nice KX3 QSL subject ;-)

2016-02-09 Thread Oliver Dröse


As I just had the QSL card in my hand ...
https://www.qrz.com/lookup/dr60inn

73, Olli

--

Contest, DX & radio projects: http://www.dh8bqa.de


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[Elecraft] K3s & Rx antenna

2016-02-09 Thread Gary Smith

My order is in Queue for a K3s. 

I currently have a K3 with sub Rx and have a HI-Z Rx antenna I use 
with the K3. Sometimes I like listening with only the Rx antenna, 
sometimes I like listening from the the Tx antenna. When I use 
diversity I want to hear from both the Rx and main antennae.

With the K3, what I have done with the Rx coax is attach it to a T 
connector with one end attached to the BNC connector {27} Aux RF, 
located below ANT 2 and the other leg connected to the RX ANT - IN on 
the KXV3.

Once I upgrade the two KBPF3 and Sub Rx board, I will migrate the Sub 
RX to the K3s

With the K3s, how should I connect the RX antenna to be most 
effective with the K3s & diversity? As I have it now?

Thanks,

Gary
KA1J
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread Bill Frantz

Well, a 100 foot tape isn't too expensive. Companies dealing in 
survey gear, such as Inner Mountain Outfitters 
 
carry ones graduated in feet and 1/10s on one side plus meters 
on the other side. Perfect for Antenna work (and cave surveying).


73 Bill AE6JV

On 2/9/16 at 11:38 AM, k...@coldrockshotbrooms.com (Lynn W. 
Taylor, WB6UUT) wrote:


Short of buying a 100 foot tape (or a longer one), what methods 
do people use to reasonably accurately measure 53 feet (or 72 
feet, or 136 feet)?


---
Bill Frantz| Since the IBM Selectric, keyboards have gotten
408-356-8506   | steadily worse. Now we have touchscreen keyboards.
www.pwpconsult.com | Can we make something even worse?

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Re: [Elecraft] Balun suggestions

2016-02-09 Thread Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft


Ignore my last - I mistakenly replied to an old email.

Eric
/elecraft.com/

On 2/9/2016 1:04 PM, Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft wrote:

Guys - please take this off reflector until you are in agreement.

73

Eric
List Moderator
/elecraft.com/

On 2/5/2016 8:15 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote:

Gee, Wes. It's only basic RF engineering.

If you'd care to be specific about any objection, please do so. I'll be glad
to get into details on or off the reflector.

73, Ron AC7AC

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Wes
(N7WS)
Sent: Thursday, February 4, 2016 4:18 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Balun suggestions

I just pinched myself; I'm not dreaming and it's not April 1st, so I guess
you're serious.

You are also so wrong on so many points, I'm not going to waste time trying
to refute or correct them.

Jim, please ignore everything said below.

Wes  N7WS



On 2/4/2016 3:05 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote:

Your feed line will do the job by itself so no additional "balun" is

needed.

Keep in mind that a 1:1 balun is really just a length of feed line,
usually wound on a toroidal core to make the required length shorter
than if it was in open air. The "old-school" baluns were just a pair of

air wound coils.

If your balanced feed line is at least 1/4 wavelength long, the
currents will be "balanced" (equal and out of phase) at the antenna.
That assumes your antenna is perfectly balanced to provide a perfectly
balanced load, which "balanced" antennas almost never do. There are
just too many variables. So expect excellent results even with shorter
feed lines. The amount of radiation (or pickup) from the feed line
even at the rig end is small in any case.

Connect one side of the open wire feed line to the KAT100 SO-239
center pin and the other to the KAT100 ground terminal.

73, Ron AC7AC



-Original Message-
K2/100 and KAT100 here.

I am changing around my modest antenna configuration now.  I have been
using the K2/100 with my AH-4, and now wish to use the KAT100 with
balanced feedline antennas.

What balun, homebrew or commercial, if any, should I use?  I almost
always run 5 watts, all CW.

73 de W6OGC Jim Allen


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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread Charlie T, K3ICH

Measure (accurately) the length of your foot,
preferably both of them if they're different, then
walk putting one foot directly in front of, and
touching the one behind it with the wire laying
along the ground under your feet.
Multiply the number of steps times the length of
your foot (or feet if necessary).

This is very similar to how to count the number of
cows in a field.
You simply count the legs and divide by four.

73, Charlie k3ICH



-Original Message-
From: Elecraft
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On
Behalf Of Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT
Sent: Tuesday, February 09, 2016 2:38 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant
wires

I don't believe there are magic lengths.

There are however lengths that are decidely
non-magical, and if you want something that works
on 40, 30, 20, 17, 15, 12 and 10, there are many
lengths that are non-magical.

That's why I did not ask "what is a good length?"
There is a pretty good reference here:
http://udel.edu/~mm/ham/randomWire/

Short of buying a 100 foot tape (or a longer one),
what methods do people use to reasonably
accurately measure 53 feet (or 72 feet, or 136
feet)?

Thanks -- Lynn

On 2/9/2016 11:06 AM, Barry N1EU wrote:
> I think the only important measurement is that
it avoids being near a 
> half wavelength on any bands.  Are there really
"magic" lengths to be 
> used with
> 9:1 xfmr into a tuner?  I'm skeptical.
>
> 73, Barry N1EU
>
> On Tue, Feb 9, 2016 at 1:50 PM, Lynn W. Taylor,
WB6UUT < 
> k...@coldrockshotbrooms.com> wrote:
>
>> Only a bit off-topic, since I have a KX3
w/tuner and a 9:1 balun to 
>> go with it.
>>
>> I know how to trim a resonant antenna to the
correct final length. I 
>> also understand why truly "random" wires don't
necessarily work.
>>
>> The recent post about shipboard operations near
Antarctica said 
>> they're using a 53' wire.
>>
>> How do you guys measure an antenna like this?
I assume it can be a 
>> few inches off, but
>>
>> 73 -- Lynn
>>

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[Elecraft] [KX3] Extended VFO Temperature Compensation

2016-02-09 Thread Joel Black

I’m missing something here…

I am following the procedures in the above procedure, Rev A9, November 14, 
2012. I am currently using F/W version 2.37 on my KX3. I am on page 4 of the 
procedure and am pretty sure I have followed the instructions verbatim. I 
cannot get the CWT indicator to show.

Yep, I have auto spot turned on as indicated by the CWT on the display. The 
pointer never comes up. I never hear a change in pitch either so I’m not sure 
if any adjustments are being made. Yes, it did occur to me that no adjustments 
may be necessary but without the CWT marker, I cannot be sure.

I am going to go through the procedure again and triple check that I didn’t 
miss anything.

If anyone knows or remembers if the CWT indicator should not be there, that’s 
fine. It’s just that what I’m seeing and what’s in the procedure are not 
matching up.

Thanks,
Joel - W4JBB
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread Heinz Bärtschi

The matching range of the KX3ATU is specified as "typ. 20:1".
The ATU has a switchable L/C network, so I understand this as 10:1 up and down, 
or in other words the KXAT3 matches loads in the range of 5 to 500 ohm?

73, Heinz HB9BCB


> Am 09.02.2016 um 20:06 schrieb Barry N1EU :
> 
> I think the only important measurement is that it avoids being near a half
> wavelength on any bands.  Are there really "magic" lengths to be used with
> 9:1 xfmr into a tuner?  I'm skeptical.
> 
> 73, Barry N1EU
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

2016-02-09 Thread Jim Brown

I have addressed this by showing photographs of winding techniques for 
coax normally used for transmitting, and for short lengths of 
transmission line formed by taping together a pair of 4-6 ft of #12 
THHN. There's also text that goes with it, noting that winding radius 
should follow mfr recommendations for bending radius, that close spacing 
should be used to lower the resonant frequency and wider spacing to 
raise it.


Note also that the dielectric constant of outer jacket material can have 
a quite significant effect on the bandwidth of ferrite chokes. For 
example, the bandwidth of those THHN chokes is MUCH greater than chokes 
would with typical RG8, RG213, RG11. Years ago, someone sent me a length 
of one of the teflon coaxes and I measured some chokes. As I recall, 
their bandwidth was lower than those wound with conventional coax.


73, Jim K9YC

73, Jim K9YC

On Tue,2/9/2016 7:45 AM, James Robbins wrote:


Good morning Jim,

I am wondering if you could opine about how “tightly” coax needs to be 
wound around a torroid for balun use (or other uses, for that matter)?


In other words, while there have been so many Elecraft postings about 
the bending  radii of various types of coax, there is no information 
posted about how tightly (closely) the coax needs to be wound around 
the edge of the toroid.  (When I have wound small torroids with magnet 
wire, the winding is tight against the core.  I’m not sure this is 
even possible, let alone needed, for a balun.)


If this is in one of your “papers”, please just refer me to the paper 
and I’ll dig it out.


73,

Jim Robbins

N1JR



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Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Jim Brown


On Tue,2/9/2016 7:57 AM, Clay Autery wrote:

As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio
License with General privileges.


Congratulations, Clay. Previous posts from you make it clear that you're 
quite competent technically, so I urge you to move ahead to qualify for 
your Extra Class license. With your background and study/review of the 
material, you should have little difficulty with it.


73, Jim K9YC
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[Elecraft] RE Another K3 Antarctic excursion

2016-02-09 Thread James Beitchman

Dave and others,

 

There is no particular operating plan and the antenna, according to Balun
Designs, will work 160 - 10M with the K3 ATU.  So bands are not selected.
Please check DX clusters. 

 

Since 1945, the start of post-war DXCC counting, maritime contacts in
territorial waters have not been counted for credit.

 

Again, I look forward to contacting many Elecraft stations

 

73,

 

Buzz

W3EMD

 

 

Message: 3

Date: Tue, 9 Feb 2016 07:20:44 -0700

From: "w7aqk" 

To: "Elecraft Reflector" 

Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Another K3 Antarctic excursion.

Message-ID: 

Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";

 reply-type=original

 

Jim,

 

Thanks for the heads up.  I'll try and listen.  I wonder if there is any 

particular band or time of operation.  Otherwise, I guess I'll just have to 

watch the DX cluster.

 

I didn't realize that operating from a ship, in territorial waters, didn't 

count for DXCC.  However, I'm not surprised that I didn't know this tidbit 

since I'm not an avid DX chaser.  I suppose that is because actual location 

might be a bit "fuzzy" when operating that way, but it sure seems if a ship 

is docked it ought to count!  Hi.  So, if I would be operating from a house 

boat in San Francisco Bay, or maybe San Diego harbor, I guess that wouldn't 

count as being in California either!  Hi.

 

Anyway, it will be interesting to see if I can hear them with that antenna 

system.  A bunch of us on the PQRP reflector have been tinkering with just 

such an antenna system.

 

73,

 

Dave W7AQK

 

 

 

 

 

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Re: [Elecraft] K3s & Rx antenna


Gary,

You can connect it as you have it now, but you can simplify - just 
connect the RX antenna to the AUX RF BNC connector and then enter BSUB 
and select the AUX antenna input for the subRX.


If you also want the RX antenna to feed the main RX when the RX antenna 
is selected, you will have to connect it as you have it for the K3.

Those sections of the K3S work just the same as on the K3.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/9/2016 5:16 PM, Gary Smith wrote:

With the K3s, how should I connect the RX antenna to be most
effective with the K3s & diversity? As I have it now?




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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

Thank you Bob...
-- 
73's, and thanks,
Dave

For software/hardware reviews see:
http://www.nk7z.net

For MixW support see:
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/mixw/info

For SSTV help see:
http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/MM-SSTV/info



On Tue, 2016-02-09 at 14:28 -0600, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:
> Yes, insulation does in effect cause the electrical length to change.
> 
> Case and point, construct a 1/2 wave antenna using insulated wire,
> put 
> it up and determine the resonant frequency or point where the SWR is 
> 1:1.   Then take it down, carefully strip off the insulation and put
> it 
> back in the same place.  Make the same measurements to determine 
> resonant frequency or point where the SWR is 1:1.  You'll find it 
> changed due to the K factor contributed by the insulation.
> 
> 73
> Bob, K4TAX
> 
> 
> 
> On 2/9/2016 1:46 PM, Dave Cole wrote:
> > Hi Jim,
> > 
> > I have been reading about your exploits with THHN, and the 100 to
> > 50
> > ohm change caused by the insulation...
> > 
> > I am going to pick some up today and wind a choke using it, (as
> > opposed
> > to enameled 14 GA copper), to see just how close to 50 ohms it will
> > come...  Any last minute tips?
> > 
> > BTW, thanks again for publishing all of your work!
> > 
> 
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions

2016-02-09 Thread Jim Brown


On Tue,2/9/2016 11:46 AM, Dave Cole wrote:

Hi Jim,

I have been reading about your exploits with THHN, and the 100 to 50
ohm change caused by the insulation...


Note that my observations are confirming results published several 
decades ago by Jerry Sevick, W2FMI. My observations of Zo and Vf are on 
the basis of measurements using a VNA and exporting data to AC6LA's 
ZPlots Excel spreadsheet.  I consider my data good to about 15% for Zo 
and 10% for Vf.



I am going to pick some up today and wind a choke using it, (as opposed
to enameled 14 GA copper), to see just how close to 50 ohms it will
come...  Any last minute tips?


You may have been confused by my writing. Enameled wire tends close to 
50 ohms, THHN in the range of 85-100 ohms.


73, Jim
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Re: [Elecraft] K3s & Rx antenna

2016-02-09 Thread Jorge Diez - CX6VM

I am very happy with KD9SV products, very high quality

http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/svp-sv-rsc

73,
Jorge
CX6VM/CW5W

2016-02-09 19:48 GMT-03:00 Mike K2MK :

> Hi Gary,
>
> I don't know if it's right or wrong to do it the way you described. I chose
> to purchase a 2 port splitter from DX Engineering. Their part number is
> DXE-RSC-2. I suppose there are cheaper alternatives.
>
> http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/dxe-rsc-2
>
> 73,
> Mike K2MK
>
>
> Gary Smith-2 wrote
> > My order is in Queue for a K3s.
> >
> > I currently have a K3 with sub Rx and have a HI-Z Rx antenna I use
> > with the K3. Sometimes I like listening with only the Rx antenna,
> > sometimes I like listening from the the Tx antenna. When I use
> > diversity I want to hear from both the Rx and main antennae.
> >
> > With the K3, what I have done with the Rx coax is attach it to a T
> > connector with one end attached to the BNC connector {27} Aux RF,
> > located below ANT 2 and the other leg connected to the RX ANT - IN on
> > the KXV3.
> >
> > Once I upgrade the two KBPF3 and Sub Rx board, I will migrate the Sub
> > RX to the K3s
> >
> > With the K3s, how should I connect the RX antenna to be most
> > effective with the K3s & diversity? As I have it now?
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Gary
> > KA1J
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> View this message in context:
> http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3s-Rx-antenna-tp7613833p7613837.html
> Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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>



-- 
73,
Jorge
CX6VM/CW5W
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Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

2016-02-09 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire

IMX with random wires the only issue about length is to end up with an
impedance at the ATU that it can handle and for it to be long enough to
radiate efficiently. A short wire (< 1/4 wavelength) depends upon a very,
very good "RF ground" or counterpoise system of operate with any efficiency.
Above about 5/8 wavelength there is no length that radiates better than any
other in general. Only the pattern changes. 

As you noted, the so-called "magic" lengths that I've seen published are
simply those that avoid a voltage loop (high impedance node) at the tuner
since most ATUs are not designed to deal with very high impedance loads and
if the rig doesn't have a good "RF ground" one easily experiences "RF in the
Shack" issues. 
 
73, Ron AC7AC 

-Original Message-
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Barry
N1EU
Sent: Tuesday, February 9, 2016 11:06 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Slightly OT: non-resonant wires

I think the only important measurement is that it avoids being near a half
wavelength on any bands.  Are there really "magic" lengths to be used with
9:1 xfmr into a tuner?  I'm skeptical.

73, Barry N1EU


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Re: [Elecraft] K3s & Rx antenna

2016-02-09 Thread Joe Subich, W4TV



Replace the T connector with a hybrid splitter ... connect
one output to the Aux Ant (Sub RX) and the other to the RF
In (Main Rx).  I like to feed the splitter with a RX antenna
switch - each of the RX antennas plus a line from the RX Out
jack.  Ideally one would put a splitter on each RX antenna
and feed separate switches for Main RX and Sub RX but that
begins to get a bit complex (maybe someday with four outputs
to route receive antennas to one of two transceivers ).

You can build your own magic-T splitter from plans at Clifton
Laboratories: 
 



I've used old "broadband" MATV/cable splitters (typically
specified 10 - 1000 MHZ) from the "old days" with no issues
all the way down to 160 although the isolation may not make
full specs that low.

If you need an off the shelf commercial product, look at the KD9SV
unit: http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/svp-sv-rsc (less expensive
than a lot of others).  Or search for a surplus unit on eBay.

73,

  ... Joe, W4TV


On 2/9/2016 5:16 PM, Gary Smith wrote:

My order is in Queue for a K3s.

I currently have a K3 with sub Rx and have a HI-Z Rx antenna I use
with the K3. Sometimes I like listening with only the Rx antenna,
sometimes I like listening from the the Tx antenna. When I use
diversity I want to hear from both the Rx and main antennae.

With the K3, what I have done with the Rx coax is attach it to a T
connector with one end attached to the BNC connector {27} Aux RF,
located below ANT 2 and the other leg connected to the RX ANT - IN on
the KXV3.

Once I upgrade the two KBPF3 and Sub Rx board, I will migrate the Sub
RX to the K3s

With the K3s, how should I connect the RX antenna to be most
effective with the K3s & diversity? As I have it now?

Thanks,

Gary
KA1J
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[Elecraft] [K2] KPA100 Temp Cal: Room temp or radio temp?

2016-02-09 Thread Brian - N5BCN via Elecraft

I may be wandering into nit-picky land, but I noticed using a hand held
infrared thermometer that the heat sink of the KPA100 is usually about 2
degrees warmer than ambient air temperature (when the unit has been sitting
idle for several hours).  For example, the heat sink will measure about 26
degs C and the room air temp is about 24 degs C.

For the purposes of the CAL tPA, which temp should I go with?  Or does it
really even matter?

Secondarily, when I discovered all this, I also found out that I had never
calibrated CAL tPA!  I was wondering why the fan NEVER seemed to kick on! 
So, I've been using the KPA100 for YEARS without the benefit of the fan.  I
hope I didn't cause any long term degradation of the unit.

Incidentally, it always seemed to get out at the proper power, but boy would
it get hot!

73,
Brian N5BCN



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Re: [Elecraft] K3s & Rx antenna

2016-02-09 Thread RIchard Williams via Elecraft

Gary,
What I found works very well is to take advantage of the RX ANT IN and OUT BNC 
connectors.    Connect your HI Z (or any other receive antenna - I have both 
the HI Z-8 and  Beverages) to the RX IN BNC connector.  Next find a short piece 
of coax (I happen to have a 2 ft or so piece of RG-400) with BNC connectors on 
both ends and connect one end to the RX ANT OUT, and the other in to the AUG RF 
IN connector.
I have found this set up works well for both receive on either the transmit 
antenna or the RX ANT.  When you switch to Diverse mode, the receive antenna 
will be on the man receiver, and your transmit antenna will be on the sub 
receiver.
Dick, K8ZTT
  From: Gary Smith 
 To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
 Sent: Tuesday, February 9, 2016 3:16 PM
 Subject: [Elecraft] K3s & Rx antenna
   
My order is in Queue for a K3s. 

I currently have a K3 with sub Rx and have a HI-Z Rx antenna I use 
with the K3. Sometimes I like listening with only the Rx antenna, 
sometimes I like listening from the the Tx antenna. When I use 
diversity I want to hear from both the Rx and main antennae.

With the K3, what I have done with the Rx coax is attach it to a T 
connector with one end attached to the BNC connector {27} Aux RF, 
located below ANT 2 and the other leg connected to the RX ANT - IN on 
the KXV3.

Once I upgrade the two KBPF3 and Sub Rx board, I will migrate the Sub 
RX to the K3s

With the K3s, how should I connect the RX antenna to be most 
effective with the K3s & diversity? As I have it now?

Thanks,

Gary
KA1J
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[Elecraft] K3: roofing filter configuration settings

2016-02-09 Thread Dick via Elecraft

A question regarding roofing filter "configuration bandwidth"  settings on 
the K3:
 
The factory default roofing filter "configuration bandwidth" setting  is to 
set the 250hz filter at a setting of "250".  Therefore, the  250hz roofing 
filter will engage at the same time as the 250hz DSP filter. 
However, since the 250hz roofing filter has an actual BW6 of 370hz,  aren't 
there times when it would be more beneficial to have  the "configuration 
bandwidth" of the 250hz roofing filter set to 350 or  400?  
I'm thinking this may be especially true when operating RTTY since the  
average RTTY bandwidth is aprx. 370hz.  Perhaps there are times when  this 
would be beneficial when operating other modes as well?
 
Likewise, the 400hz roofer has a BW6 of 450hz, so perhaps for certain modes 
 a "configuration bandwidth" setting of 450 rather than 400 could be  
beneficial as well?
 
If anyone is wondering where I'm getting the term "configuration bandwidth" 
 from, it's a configuration heading on the K3 Utility programs filter  
configuration page.
 
Thanks & 73,
 
Dick- K9OM
 
 
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Re: [Elecraft] Competition from ICOM?

2016-02-09 Thread Drew


That's the 22 mega-meter band...

73,
Drew
AF2Z


On 02/09/16 13:38, Matt Maguire wrote:

If it only goes up to 74.8 mHz, then I don't think Elecraft has anything to 
worry about :-)
73, Matt VK2RQ

Envoyé via Outlook Mobile



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Re: [Elecraft] [K2] KPA100 Temp Cal: Room temp or radio temp?

Brian,

If you let the KPA100 cool for a sufficient time, the heatsink should be
at the ambient temperature. How long is long enough will vary from
temperature to temperature. I suggest that power off for 30 minutes or
more will give good results.

You need to measure the temperature directly below the PA transistors -
which is difficult to do. The best solution is to let everything to
acclimate to ambient and set CAL TMP at whatever the ambient temperature
may be (in degC). How much do you trust your infrared thermometer is
the real question. 2 degrees may not make a big difference. Light on
the heatsink can create an apparent difference in temperature. The
heatsink can absorb light and make it warmer than the ambient temperature.

IMHO, 2 degrees C will not make that much difference in when the fan
comes on to either low or high speed.

In other words, go with whatever is comfortable with you. The CAL TPA
parameter only defines when the fan will be activated. Some KPA100
owners who want to see the fan come on sooner than normal will set the
CAL TPA menu parameter to a greater temperature than ambient. In other
words, setting CAL TPA to 30 degC when the ambient is 23 degC will turn
on the fan earlier than the normal heatsink temperature.

Bottom line -- it is an individual decision (but don't go to extremes).

73,
Don W3FPR

On 2/9/2016 8:22 PM, Brian - N5BCN via Elecraft wrote:

I may be wandering into nit-picky land, but I noticed using a hand held
infrared thermometer that the heat sink of the KPA100 is usually about 2
degrees warmer than ambient air temperature (when the unit has been sitting
idle for several hours). For example, the heat sink will measure about 26
degs C and the room air temp is about 24 degs C.

For the purposes of the CAL tPA, which temp should I go with? Or does it
really even matter?

Secondarily, when I discovered all this, I also found out that I had never
calibrated CAL tPA! I was wondering why the fan NEVER seemed to kick on!
So, I've been using the KPA100 for YEARS without the benefit of the fan. I
hope I didn't cause any long term degradation of the unit.

Incidentally, it always seemed to get out at the proper power, but boy would
it get hot!

73,
Brian N5BCN

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Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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Re: [Elecraft] I am officially a HAM!!!

2016-02-09 Thread Billy Cox

CONGRATS Clay, and welcome to the hobby! 

73 de Billy, AA4NU 

- Original Message -

From: "Clay Autery" 

As of sometime yesterday, 02/08/2016, I was granted my Amateur Radio 
License with General privileges. 

Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this possible. I am 
quite happy and yes, a little proud, too. 

In just a few hours, I will take possession of my Elecraft K3s and P3 
components. 

I have two super selfless, super-experienced, super-patient operators 
who've taken an interest in me. 

And I have TWO local clubs available to me from whose members I can 
learn and through which I can contribute to the hobby and my community. 

My cup truly runneth over... Thank you, Lord! 

73, 
Clay, KG5LKV 
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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions.

2016-02-09 Thread Dave B via Elecraft

On 09/02/16 17:15, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote:

> If you lose, it is never good when the center conductor shorts to the
>shield at Kilowatt power levels.  Use loops large enough to stay within
>the bending radius of your coax.  Now if this is QRP, you could
>probably get away with it.

There are coax cables out there that can run safely too hot to handle.   
Teflon dielectric and FEP outer cover.

It's used in multi kW industrial amps and power combiners, wrapped 
around many ferrite cores, often with fan cooling, for the ferrite, not 
the cable!

Commercial (Broadcast) baluns too are sometimes immersed in oil, much 
like power transformers, for cooling.  That's at the 10's of kW power 
level.   But the coax is the high temperature stuff again.

Use suitable cable for the job, not cheap polyethylene stuff.

Dave G0WBX.

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Re: [Elecraft] Balun Questions.