date:20180602



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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - measured (sort of)

2018-06-02 Thread Michael Walker

Those numbers are pretty impressive for quiet.

Certainly quieter than a quiet dishwasher unless you really pushing it.

Mike va3mw


On Sat, Jun 2, 2018 at 11:09 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX 
wrote:

> Using a Sound Level Meter with A weighted scale, measure the noise at 1
> meter in at least 4 different directions.   Preferably done in a "free
> field" such that any acoustic reflections are at least 6 meters distant.
> I know it is difficult to make measurement outside on a piece of equipment
> such as this.   But with these measurements one will have some quantitative
> data to evaluate.   {One side may be noticeably quieter.   Thus turning the
> amp 90º could make a difference.
>
> Also, an audio spectrum analysis of the noise would be nice. There may be
> certain frequencies related to blade tip speed, or bearing chatter which
> can be addressed.
>
> I know Jim, K9YC will have extensive knowledge about this method of
> evaluating "noise" and can offer some solid advice.
>
> 73
>
> Bob, K4TAX
>
>
> On 6/2/2018 6:12 PM, Chris Codella, W2PA wrote:
>
>> In an attempt to quantify this, I installed OSHA's free NIOSH app, which
>> measures noise, onto my iPhone 7 and tried it out.  It's not a measurement
>> instrument, mind you, so the absolute numbers are highly questionable.  But
>> the relative numbers are interesting.  I held the phone at eye level
>> between me and my computer monitor, about 2 feet from the amplifiers.  Here
>> are the results:
>>
>> dB measured with NIOSH app, rounded to two significant digits:
>>
>> 46 - for comparison - an Alpha 89 running as normal
>> 48 - KPA1500 at fan level 0 (i.e. PS fans only)
>> 51 - fan level 1 (i.e. center fan plus PS fans)
>> 57 - fan level 2 (all fans on)
>> 64 - fan level 3 (all fans on)
>> 67 - fan level 4 (all fans on)
>> 76 - fan level 5 (all fans on)
>>
>> Similar to other comments I've read, I find up through level 2 to be
>> okay.  At 3 and above I need headphones or, better still, noise cancelling
>> ones.  My experience thus far is that on SSB in normal conversation at
>> 1500W it stays at level 0 with an occasional excursion into level 1 if I'm
>> long winded.  In the CW WPX test last weekend, strictly in S mode, it
>> stayed at level 0. Experiments with CQing and on FT-8 are yet to come and
>> I'm sure will require higher speeds.
>>
>> 73,
>> Chris, W2PA
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Re: [Elecraft] TX Sample level on KPA1500?

2018-06-02 Thread David Box


Jim

I have done a little characterization of the TX Sample.  Testing I did 
was into a dummy load running CW and using the KPA1500 reported powers.  
Ran K3s barefoot measuring the TX Sample level terminated with 50 ohms 
from 20 - 100W in 10W steps .  Then ran with KPA1500 operating up to 
about 1700W.  With the KPA1500 inline I ran the K3s from 5 W - 35W in 5W 
steps.  Max power reported at 35W was 1720W by the KPA1500.  Tuners in 
K3s and KPA1500 were bypassed in this data acquisition, the load was a 
Bird Termaline 1KW Dummy Load.


TX Sample voltage is same with or without powering up the KPA1500, so 
pretty sure it is just a torroid with passive scaling.


With the TX Sample terminated by 50 ohms I find   POpep= (V^2)*55. Where 
V is the P-P TX Sample Voltage.  The constant 55 is from trying to do a 
linear regression.  Expect it is off a little based on accuracy of 
KPA1500 reported power and my scope has not been officially calibrated, 
but close.


With an accurate RF voltmeter this could be refined by actually 
measuring power in dummy load but right now do not have the hardware to 
do that.


Be interested if anyone has found a better fit.

Be interesting to see what the manual reveals when they get caught up.

Now I can justify scrounging some more test equipment and build a few 
more test jigs :)


Also learned the list does not like for you to use formatting of 
superscripts and subscripts :)


73 Dave K5MWR


On 6/2/2018 10:01 PM, David Box wrote:

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - measured (sort of)

2018-06-02 Thread Bob McGraw K4TAX

Using a Sound Level Meter with A weighted scale, measure the noise at 1 
meter in at least 4 different directions.   Preferably done in a "free 
field" such that any acoustic reflections are at least 6 meters 
distant.    I know it is difficult to make measurement outside on a 
piece of equipment such as this.   But with these measurements one will 
have some quantitative data to evaluate.   {One side may be noticeably 
quieter.   Thus turning the amp 90º could make a difference.


Also, an audio spectrum analysis of the noise would be nice. There may 
be certain frequencies related to blade tip speed, or bearing chatter 
which can be addressed.


I know Jim, K9YC will have extensive knowledge about this method of 
evaluating "noise" and can offer some solid advice.


73

Bob, K4TAX


On 6/2/2018 6:12 PM, Chris Codella, W2PA wrote:
In an attempt to quantify this, I installed OSHA's free NIOSH app, 
which measures noise, onto my iPhone 7 and tried it out.  It's not a 
measurement instrument, mind you, so the absolute numbers are highly 
questionable.  But the relative numbers are interesting.  I held the 
phone at eye level between me and my computer monitor, about 2 feet 
from the amplifiers.  Here are the results:


dB measured with NIOSH app, rounded to two significant digits:

46 - for comparison - an Alpha 89 running as normal
48 - KPA1500 at fan level 0 (i.e. PS fans only)
51 - fan level 1 (i.e. center fan plus PS fans)
57 - fan level 2 (all fans on)
64 - fan level 3 (all fans on)
67 - fan level 4 (all fans on)
76 - fan level 5 (all fans on)

Similar to other comments I've read, I find up through level 2 to be 
okay.  At 3 and above I need headphones or, better still, noise 
cancelling ones.  My experience thus far is that on SSB in normal 
conversation at 1500W it stays at level 0 with an occasional excursion 
into level 1 if I'm long winded.  In the CW WPX test last weekend, 
strictly in S mode, it stayed at level 0. Experiments with CQing and 
on FT-8 are yet to come and I'm sure will require higher speeds.


73,
Chris, W2PA
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Re: [Elecraft] TX Sample level on KPA1500?

2018-06-02 Thread David Box



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[Elecraft] [FS] KXPA100 with ATU and KXPACBL set

Built and tested but never used. Was going to install in vehicle but it didn't 
happen. Power cable is not original but I'm providing an equivalent. All 
manuals. Will be VERY well protected and shipped insured. $900 shipped CONUS. 
Contact me for pics or questions. N3IKQatYahoo
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[Elecraft] 6M open from Indianapolis to the SE & SW

2018-06-02 Thread Michael Blake

It has been pen solid for the pats hour.  It is now 10:45PM EDT and in the past 
hour I have logged 74 different 6M FT8 transmitters ranging to the tip of FL 
and the Rio Grande.
 
Michael Blake
k9...@mac.com 






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[Elecraft] [FS] QRP Works SideKar

Selling a QRP Works Sidekar with data cable. Mounts for KX2 included but easily 
adapted to KX3. Very little use. A few light scratches on clear bezel. . $195 
shipped CONUS. Email for pics or questions. N3IKQatYahoo. Thanks!
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[Elecraft] [FS] Palm Radio Pico Paddle Single

Selling a Palm Radio Pico Paddle Single. Mount for KX2, KX3 included. Very 
little use. $95 shipped CONUS. Email for pics or questions. N3IKQatYahoo. 
Thanks!
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Re: [Elecraft] Fan speed on meter?

2018-06-02 Thread Jim N7US

Sorry, I forgot that I'm asking about the KPA1500.

 

73, Jim N7US

 

From: Jim N7US  
Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 21:21
To: Elecraft Reflector (elecraft@mailman.qth.net) 
Subject: Fan speed on meter?

 

Maybe I've overlooked it, but I don't see a meter display option that shows
the current fan speed.  Is there one?

 

73, Jim N7US

 

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[Elecraft] Fan speed on meter?

2018-06-02 Thread Jim N7US

Maybe I've overlooked it, but I don't see a meter display option that shows
the current fan speed.  Is there one?

 

73, Jim N7US

 

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Re: [Elecraft] power connector part number

2018-06-02 Thread Jonathan Poland


James,

I can't believe that no one has replied to your question yet. The 
adapter is a "standard part".  They are a "Tensility 10-01065".  You 
should be able to find that on Google.  They are definitely available 
from DigiKey as part number 839-1167-ND. This is the part I use for the 
PowerPole Adapters that I sell at http://stores.ebay.com/N0WL-Radio.  I 
can't see any difference between this part and the one Elecraft delivers.


Jon N0WL


On 5/29/2018 10:12, James Cizek wrote:

Hi all,

Question here, I can't seem to find the answer to in the manual or with
google. Is the power cord that comes with the KX3 a special part for
Elecraft or is that a common "electronics distributor" part?  The manual
states a Switchcraft part number, but that part is for a standard straight
plug, not the molded 90 degree plug that comes with the radio.   I'd like
to purchase more of these plugs for various places/power sources and would
like to find an exact replacement so I can use some of them with the 3D
printed coax-to-powerpole adapters that are out there.

If the answer is "order it from Elecraft", that's acceptable, but if there
is a generic part number I can buy at the same time as other parts I need
(ie, mouser, digikey, etc) that would be good to know.

Thanks everyone.

73
James
KI0KN
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA Fan Noise


I think there is fan noise then there is other fan noise.

I've built HP tube amps that required lots of air flow to live. See 
http://sadxa.org/n7ws.html for examples.  My thinking was that you could never 
have too much air.  That said, the blower noise was different in these from what 
my KPA500 emits.  In the 8877 amp for instance the blower IIRC, was rated at 
about 300 cfm.  But it operated into considerable back pressure from the inlet 
RF screen, the tube anode fins and the output grill.  Some of the noise was 
actually from the motor, not airflow.  Furthermore the amp was mounted in a 4' 
rack cabinet which further dampened noise.  It ran continuously and just became 
part of the background noise typical of a high power station and I lived with it.


I don't have a KPA1500, just a KPA500 but I can say that at fan speed 5 or 6 it 
is way obnoxious.  In fact, just before writing this I went into the shack in 
the next room from the office and cycled the speeds.  My lady who is sitting in 
front of her computer here in the office asked, "What is all that noise?"


I use a Yamaha CM500 headset at all times and I can say that a few nights ago 
when I operated as K7UGA and ran 300 Qs in 2 hours on 20 SSB the fan was pretty 
loud at times.


Wes  N7WS


On 6/2/2018 12:30 PM, William Levy wrote:

I have been cooling amplifiers 1980. I built an 8877 amd it had a blower.
I don't understand the fan noise problem. Tubes and Transistors need
cooling.
The more the better. Earphones are the answer if you can't hear the weak
ones.
Frankly I don't care about the weak ones. Probabliy can't hear the weak
ones anyway at 70! I remember the very first Alpha has water cooling. That
was a nuisance!
73 all,

Bill N2WL
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - measured (sort of)

2018-06-02 Thread Mel Farrer via Elecraft

Thanks Chris,
I do not think I will buy the current configuration of the KPA-1500 fans.  I 
was seriously doing so..  I would still like to know the model number of 
the fans. 
Mel, K6KBE

  From: "Chris Codella, W2PA" 
 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
 Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 4:14 PM
 Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - measured (sort of)
   
In an attempt to quantify this, I installed OSHA's free NIOSH app, which 
measures noise, onto my iPhone 7 and tried it out.  It's not a 
measurement instrument, mind you, so the absolute numbers are highly 
questionable.  But the relative numbers are interesting.  I held the 
phone at eye level between me and my computer monitor, about 2 feet from 
the amplifiers.  Here are the results:

dB measured with NIOSH app, rounded to two significant digits:

46 - for comparison - an Alpha 89 running as normal
48 - KPA1500 at fan level 0 (i.e. PS fans only)
51 - fan level 1 (i.e. center fan plus PS fans)
57 - fan level 2 (all fans on)
64 - fan level 3 (all fans on)
67 - fan level 4 (all fans on)
76 - fan level 5 (all fans on)

Similar to other comments I've read, I find up through level 2 to be 
okay.  At 3 and above I need headphones or, better still, noise 
cancelling ones.  My experience thus far is that on SSB in normal 
conversation at 1500W it stays at level 0 with an occasional excursion 
into level 1 if I'm long winded.  In the CW WPX test last weekend, 
strictly in S mode, it stayed at level 0. Experiments with CQing and 
on FT-8 are yet to come and I'm sure will require higher speeds.

73,
Chris, W2PA
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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

I've been licensed long enough to remember when you kept a logbook to meet FCC 
requirements and you listed what you did on the air, even if it was just 
testing.  I lined out and initialed changes.


I'm reminded of a guy on the FT8 Yahoo group who admitted that his computer and 
radio "worked" and logged another station while he was in the kitchen.  So he 
declared that he wasn't going to QSL the other guy.  I asked him how the other 
guy was supposed to know he wasn't in front of the radio and why he was being 
punished for it.  Crickets.


Clearly, everyone's ethics are their own.

On 6/2/2018 4:08 PM, Clay Autery wrote:
I don't consider it anal I consider it a matter of principle, and agree 
with Jim.  I'd do the same thing.  


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(318) 518-1389

On 06/02/18 16:07, Wes Stewart wrote:

Good grief, how anal can you get?

On 6/2/2018 11:02 AM, Jim Brown wrote:
...And when I work someone off the calling frequency and hear him later 
running on the calling frequency, I take the Q out of my log



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[Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - measured (sort of)

2018-06-02 Thread Chris Codella, W2PA

In an attempt to quantify this, I installed OSHA's free NIOSH app, which 
measures noise, onto my iPhone 7 and tried it out.  It's not a 
measurement instrument, mind you, so the absolute numbers are highly 
questionable.  But the relative numbers are interesting.  I held the 
phone at eye level between me and my computer monitor, about 2 feet from 
the amplifiers.  Here are the results:


dB measured with NIOSH app, rounded to two significant digits:

46 - for comparison - an Alpha 89 running as normal
48 - KPA1500 at fan level 0 (i.e. PS fans only)
51 - fan level 1 (i.e. center fan plus PS fans)
57 - fan level 2 (all fans on)
64 - fan level 3 (all fans on)
67 - fan level 4 (all fans on)
76 - fan level 5 (all fans on)

Similar to other comments I've read, I find up through level 2 to be 
okay.  At 3 and above I need headphones or, better still, noise 
cancelling ones.  My experience thus far is that on SSB in normal 
conversation at 1500W it stays at level 0 with an occasional excursion 
into level 1 if I'm long winded.  In the CW WPX test last weekend, 
strictly in S mode, it stayed at level 0. Experiments with CQing and 
on FT-8 are yet to come and I'm sure will require higher speeds.


73,
Chris, W2PA
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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Clay Autery

I don't consider it anal I consider it a matter of principle, and 
agree with Jim.  I'd do the same thing.  


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On 06/02/18 16:07, Wes Stewart wrote:

Good grief, how anal can you get?

On 6/2/2018 11:02 AM, Jim Brown wrote:
...And when I work someone off the calling frequency and hear him 
later running on the calling frequency, I take the Q out of my log



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[Elecraft] K2 audio howl

2018-06-02 Thread Stanley Karter

I recently acquired a built K2, serial 7237. Occasionally, when first turned 
on, it emitted a very loud medium pitched tone for a couple of seconds. 
Otherwise it seemed to operate normally. 
Now suddenly whenever it is turned on it emits this howl constantly, and no 
changes in settings affect this loud audio oscillation.
Before I embark on the laborious process of taking it apart to start measuring 
every voltage, I was wondering if anyone has a clue to what failure might cause 
this problem so I can focus my investigation more efficiently?
Thanks,
Stanley K6SGK
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Clay Autery

It is NOT JUST a matter of of getting an HD15 M-->F extension cable 
(which can be had in lengths up to 100 feet.


A VGA signal is analog and can be extended to up to 100 feet TOTAL 
according to the spec, all things being optimum.


But one MUST look at the signals being sent between the KPA-1500 power 
supply and RF deck...  Are they analog, digital, a mix?
What are the timing spec requirements?  Voltage levels? State 
difference, et al...  Are there capacitance limitations, et al.


73,

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On 06/02/18 12:56, Don Wilhelm wrote:

Les,

A VGA extension will NOT do the job.  Get a cable with all 15 pins 
connected straight through.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 6/2/2018 12:07 PM, Les Peters wrote:
Jim I agree with your personal observations.  I run some high duty 
cycle modes so I notice the fans kicking into speed 3 a lot when the 
PA temp gets to 68-70 degrees.  That setting does a good job of 
reducing the temp and keeping it from climbing past 73 degrees.  I've 
changed my min fan speed threshold from 0 to 1 to also help.  As you 
have pointed out 1 is barely perceptible and this helps to reduce the 
amount of time that fan speeds are on 2+.



I'd like to have more separation between the K3S and the KPA1500 RF 
deck to further distance any noise but the KPAK3AUX cable is only 
about five feet long, it would be great if that were more like ten 
feet.  Since the cable pin out is straight thru I would imagine a 
DB15 VGA M-F extension cable would suffice?  That would put the 
potential fan noise even further away but have the RF deck still 
plenty close enough to view.



Les, N1SV

#113


Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 23:07:20 -0400
 From: "James F. Boehner MD"
 To: "'Elecraft Reflector'"
 Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise
 Message-ID: <002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com 
mailto:002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com >

 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"

 Just thought I would add a few thoughts as far as the fan noise.

 I'm not certain a YouTube piece would help, but perhaps 
personal observations might.


 First, via the menu, you can select the minimum fan speed, 0-5. 
Of course, the fan speed will go up with the Amp temperature.


 These are my personal observations:

 0-Nothing
 1-Barely perceptible
 2-Acceptable fan noise, even for SSB operating. Low pitched whine
 3-The noise and the pitch of the whine is past the acceptable 
point. Even a very directional mic will probably pick up the noise. 
This is where Noise Cancelling headphones would start to help.

 4-Louder and higher pitched whine
 5-Very loud and higher pitched whine

 So, the fan noise becomes particularly bothersome on level 3 
and above. If you are doing CW and/or Digital, the noise will only 
be a factor with the operator. On SSB, the noise will probably be 
noticeable on the air. However, the SSB duty cycle may not require 
higher fan speeds. Those who have been active in contests will 
probably know that answer.


 Rich, if fan noise is going to be that strong a factor, perhaps 
you should be looking at tube amps instead. Personally, if I found 
the KPA-1500 fan noise excessive in the future, I would plan on 
moving it off my desk or remoting it rather than replacing it. It's 
integration with the K3 would be very hard to give up.



 ?73 de JIM N2ZZ
 #106
 **


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Mel Farrer via Elecraft

Hello Ted,
I haven't owned an airplane in years either, 1995 when I sold my BD-4, Darn.
However, As I grow older and the ears get weaker, having to listen to fan noise 
mixed with SSB voice is a concern.  I am an engineer of sorts and know that 
there are ways to control the noise from fans.  Efficient vane design for lower 
RPM operation and still produce the required CFM.  So what is the dBa of the 
1500 at 0-5 levels?  My ears like to hear <25 dBa noise.  The noise in the 
Utube video WAS way above that.  NOT good.
Mel, K6KBE

  From: "Dauer, Edward" 
 To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net"  
 Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 2:15 PM
 Subject: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise
   

I have been following this thread with interest because I have a KPA1500 on 
order, and I have very limited flexibility as to where the RF deck can go 
compared to where I will have to sit.

Don's video was very well done and a great help in understanding the realities.

I know zero about thermodynamics, and so wanted only to say thanks to everyone 
who is contributing ideas, and to make but two comments.    

First, as to water cooling, I suspect it would be a huge weight penalty to get 
the cooling fluid everywhere it needs to be.  So far as I know there is only 
one reciprocating engine made for aircraft that has a water jacket.  (There 
might be others nowadays - I haven't owned an airplane for some years.)  The 
reasons others don't are reliability, safety, complexity, and - mostly - 
weight.  Second, isn't this largely a contest-operating issue?  I believe we 
are still governed by the rule that we may use only that amount of power 
necessary for the communication.    I contest too, so I'll face the problem on 
those occasions, but not for casual ragchews.  I plan to make some graphs of 
when in terms of time, power, mode and band the fans on mine kick up a notch, 
and use it as a general operating guideline if I need to.

Ted, KN1CBR



Date: Sat, 2 Jun 2018 08:48:46 -0600
    From: Don Butler 
    To: Paul Baldock ,     "Elecraft@mailman.qth.net"
        
    Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted
    Message-ID: 
    Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"
    
    Paul ?. The PS noise is minimal from my point of view.  The power supply 
fans do run continuously while the amp is switched on ?. You can hear the PS 
fans at the beginning and end of the video when the fan speed is set at ?0? .. 
all you?re hearing at that time is the PS fan ? at power down right at the end 
you can hear when the PS fans stop.
    
    Don, N5LZ
    
    

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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

Interesting conversation.  As one those old farts, age 76 and a ham for 60 of 
them, I do still have all of my teeth, most of my hair and a 59-year-old 
fiancee. I guess I fail to understand the heartburn about calling frequencies.


First, they aren't FCC assigned frequencies.  It is completely legal to operate 
on them on a first-come-first-served basis.  No one owns a frequency.  Now while 
it might be reasonably argued that it is bad form to occupy one continuously, it 
certainly isn't the end of the world. Regularly scheduled "nets" should 
certainly use a different frequency but if someone calls CQ and is answered by a 
distant station I fail to see a need to immediately QSY and risk losing the QSO, 
especially if it is MS.


Wes  N7WS


On 6/2/2018 12:51 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:
Absolutely correct!  These old farts, gum beaters and false teeth clackers, 
are usually running 100 watts or so to outside non-directional antennas and 
are often no more than 20 miles apart.   If challenged one will be told that 
"we were hear first and you should move on".   They do not recognize the 
national calling frequency by gentleman's agreement.    Seems like hours and 
hours of QSO's takes place as "members" of the group come in and out during 
the evenings.


I've often heard stations in the distant calling CQ and I've answered them on 
the calling frequency and asked the distant station to QSY up or down 5.  Then 
I hear about me QRM'm their QSO.    Crap  such as this is one reason I stopped 
contesting on VHF.


73

Bob, K4TAX 


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

2018-06-02 Thread Grant Youngman

Have you replaced the coax cable between the KPA500 and the KAT500?  


Sent from my iPhone

> On Jun 2, 2018, at 5:04 PM, jeff griffin  wrote:
> 
> Hi Jack. The swr is so different between the two that there has to be a
> problem. I've had this setup for 3 years and never experienced this
> behavior.
> 
> 73 Jedff kb2m
> 
> -Original Message-
> From: Jack Brindle [mailto:jackbrin...@me.com] 
> Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 4:47 PM
> To: jeff griffin
> Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree
> 
> Jeff;
> 
> Do I understand that for the first test you are driving the antenna through
> the KPA500 and KAT500 (with KAT500 in bypass)? If so, it makes a lot of
> sense that you will see different SWR. The KPA and KAT are providing a
> completely different load for the K3. The better test is to feed the antenna
> directly from the K3 without the KPA and KAT in-line. I would expect you to
> see a closer match at that point, although I doubt they will ever be
> identical due to the differences in the directional couplers in the K3 vs
> the KAT500 (and KPA500 for that matter).
> 
> Jack, W6FB
> 
> 
>> On Jun 2, 2018, at 8:48 AM, jeff griffin  wrote:
>> 
>> I recently brought my KPA/KAT500 north for the summer and hooked up to my
> trapped multiband fan dipole that I use here in NJ. I leave my K3 here for
> remote use and use the amp at my winter home in Florida to use with my Flex
> 6500 with a Steppir Vertical antenna without the KAT500 tuner. When I got up
> here I installed the KIO3B option. The install went well with no issues, all
> looked good so I connected the K3, P3, KAT500, and KPA500 with the Elecraft
> provided cable set like I do every year. 
>> 
>> The issue I'm having is an SWR difference between the KAT500 and the K3.
> For example if I use the K3's internal tuner I can on a chosen frequency
> achieve an SWR of 1/1. I the put the internal K3 tuner in bypass mode and
> take the KAT500 out of bypass and set to auto. I then use the xmit button on
> the K3 to create a tune signal to be sent to the KAT500. The K3 then shows a
> 1/1, the KAT500 about the same but the KPA500 which is in STBY mode shows
> around 3/1. What this causes to happen is the Amp will fault out if I try to
> use any power output. If I check the antenna with a trusted SWR meter I see
> 1.3/1 at the frequency of use. I upgraded the firmware in all the devices in
> use, I also did a reset of the KAT's stored frequencies memory, and checked
> both the amp and tuner with the utility programs. I'm going to call Elecraft
> on Monday, anyone have any ideas in the meantime I can try?
>> 
>> 73 Jeff kb2m   
>> 
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[Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Dauer, Edward



I have been following this thread with interest because I have a KPA1500 on 
order, and I have very limited flexibility as to where the RF deck can go 
compared to where I will have to sit.

Don's video was very well done and a great help in understanding the realities.

I know zero about thermodynamics, and so wanted only to say thanks to everyone 
who is contributing ideas, and to make but two comments.

First, as to water cooling, I suspect it would be a huge weight penalty to get 
the cooling fluid everywhere it needs to be.  So far as I know there is only 
one reciprocating engine made for aircraft that has a water jacket.  (There 
might be others nowadays - I haven't owned an airplane for some years.)  The 
reasons others don't are reliability, safety, complexity, and - mostly - 
weight.  Second, isn't this largely a contest-operating issue?   I believe we 
are still governed by the rule that we may use only that amount of power 
necessary for the communication.I contest too, so I'll face the problem on 
those occasions, but not for casual ragchews.  I plan to make some graphs of 
when in terms of time, power, mode and band the fans on mine kick up a notch, 
and use it as a general operating guideline if I need to.

Ted, KN1CBR



Date: Sat, 2 Jun 2018 08:48:46 -0600
From: Don Butler 
To: Paul Baldock ,"Elecraft@mailman.qth.net"

Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted
Message-ID: 
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"

Paul ?. The PS noise is minimal from my point of view.  The power supply 
fans do run continuously while the amp is switched on ?. You can hear the PS 
fans at the beginning and end of the video when the fan speed is set at ?0? .. 
all you?re hearing at that time is the PS fan ? at power down right at the end 
you can hear when the PS fans stop.

Don, N5LZ



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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure


Good grief, how anal can you get?

On 6/2/2018 11:02 AM, Jim Brown wrote:
...And when I work someone off the calling frequency and hear him later 
running on the calling frequency, I take the Q out of my log



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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

2018-06-02 Thread jeff griffin

Hi Jack. The swr is so different between the two that there has to be a
problem. I've had this setup for 3 years and never experienced this
behavior.

73 Jedff kb2m

-Original Message-
From: Jack Brindle [mailto:jackbrin...@me.com] 
Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 4:47 PM
To: jeff griffin
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

Jeff;

Do I understand that for the first test you are driving the antenna through
the KPA500 and KAT500 (with KAT500 in bypass)? If so, it makes a lot of
sense that you will see different SWR. The KPA and KAT are providing a
completely different load for the K3. The better test is to feed the antenna
directly from the K3 without the KPA and KAT in-line. I would expect you to
see a closer match at that point, although I doubt they will ever be
identical due to the differences in the directional couplers in the K3 vs
the KAT500 (and KPA500 for that matter).

Jack, W6FB


> On Jun 2, 2018, at 8:48 AM, jeff griffin  wrote:
> 
> I recently brought my KPA/KAT500 north for the summer and hooked up to my
trapped multiband fan dipole that I use here in NJ. I leave my K3 here for
remote use and use the amp at my winter home in Florida to use with my Flex
6500 with a Steppir Vertical antenna without the KAT500 tuner. When I got up
here I installed the KIO3B option. The install went well with no issues, all
looked good so I connected the K3, P3, KAT500, and KPA500 with the Elecraft
provided cable set like I do every year. 
> 
> The issue I'm having is an SWR difference between the KAT500 and the K3.
For example if I use the K3's internal tuner I can on a chosen frequency
achieve an SWR of 1/1. I the put the internal K3 tuner in bypass mode and
take the KAT500 out of bypass and set to auto. I then use the xmit button on
the K3 to create a tune signal to be sent to the KAT500. The K3 then shows a
1/1, the KAT500 about the same but the KPA500 which is in STBY mode shows
around 3/1. What this causes to happen is the Amp will fault out if I try to
use any power output. If I check the antenna with a trusted SWR meter I see
1.3/1 at the frequency of use. I upgraded the firmware in all the devices in
use, I also did a reset of the KAT's stored frequencies memory, and checked
both the amp and tuner with the utility programs. I'm going to call Elecraft
on Monday, anyone have any ideas in the meantime I can try?
> 
> 73 Jeff kb2m   
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

2018-06-02 Thread jeff griffin

Thanks for the reply Don. Tried that and didn't work, still have the SWR issue. 
Tried the amp on a resonant frequency, and it still is showing a bad SWR, but 
not bad enough to always fault.

73 Jeff kb2m

-Original Message-
From: Don Wilhelm [mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com] 
Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 1:54 PM
To: jeff griffin; elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

Jeff,

Check the coax between the KPA500 and the KAT500.  Make certain the 
connectors are tight.  Replace with a different coax if you have one.

You can always do a check on the KPA500 wattmeter by connecting a dummy 
load to the KPA500 (no tuner).

73,
Don W3FPR

On 6/2/2018 11:48 AM, jeff griffin wrote:
>   I recently brought my KPA/KAT500 north for the summer and hooked up to my 
> trapped multiband fan dipole that I use here in NJ. I leave my K3 here for 
> remote use and use the amp at my winter home in Florida to use with my Flex 
> 6500 with a Steppir Vertical antenna without the KAT500 tuner. When I got up 
> here I installed the KIO3B option. The install went well with no issues, all 
> looked good so I connected the K3, P3, KAT500, and KPA500 with the Elecraft 
> provided cable set like I do every year.
>
>   The issue I'm having is an SWR difference between the KAT500 and the K3. 
> For example if I use the K3's internal tuner I can on a chosen frequency 
> achieve an SWR of 1/1. I the put the internal K3 tuner in bypass mode and 
> take the KAT500 out of bypass and set to auto. I then use the xmit button on 
> the K3 to create a tune signal to be sent to the KAT500. The K3 then shows a 
> 1/1, the KAT500 about the same but the KPA500 which is in STBY mode shows 
> around 3/1. What this causes to happen is the Amp will fault out if I try to 
> use any power output. If I check the antenna with a trusted SWR meter I see 
> 1.3/1 at the frequency of use. I upgraded the firmware in all the devices in 
> use, I also did a reset of the KAT's stored frequencies memory, and checked 
> both the amp and tuner with the utility programs. I'm going to call Elecraft 
> on Monday, anyone have any ideas in the meantime I can try?
> 
> 73 Jeff kb2m
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] Windows 10 Update Breaks COM Port for K3 & P3 Utilities

2018-06-02 Thread Mark Wheeler

Don,

I confirmed the correct com port is com3.

Mark
WU6R 

> On Jun 2, 2018, at 3:53 PM, Don Wilhelm  wrote:
> 
> Mark,
> 
> Are you using the USB interface on the K3S, or a USB to serial adapter to 
> connect to the K3?
> 
> If that is the case, did the assigned COM port get changed with the Windows 
> 10 Update?  Some have reported it has happened to them.
> 
> To check the COM port that is assigned, open Device Manager and expand the 
> PORTS listing.  Then unplug the USB connector and see which COM port goes 
> away - now plug it back in and observe which COM port is assigned.
> 
> Plug that COM port into K3 Utility or any other application that you are 
> using to communicate with the K3.
> 
> If you don't see a COM port assigned, then suspect the USB to serial adapter 
> - reload its drivers to see if that fixes it.
> 
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
> 
>> On 6/2/2018 3:10 PM, Mark Wheeler wrote:
>> Wayne,
>> No I cannot. The command tester tab and terminal tab are grayed out.
>> Mark
>> WU6R
>> Sent from my iPad
>>> On May 30, 2018, at 11:40 PM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:
>>> 
>>> Can you communicate with the K3 using a simple terminal server? E.g., send 
>>> “FA;” and see if you get the VFO A frequency in response.
>>> 
>>> That would demonstrate that the port and driver are working.
>>> 
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Re: [Elecraft] Windows 10 Update Breaks COM Port for K3 & P3 Utilities

2018-06-02 Thread Mark Wheeler

Don,

I am using the USB cable that is USB to USB from my pc to the USB connection on 
the back corner of the K3.

Mark

> On Jun 2, 2018, at 3:53 PM, Don Wilhelm  wrote:
> 
> Mark,
> 
> Are you using the USB interface on the K3S, or a USB to serial adapter to 
> connect to the K3?
> 
> If that is the case, did the assigned COM port get changed with the Windows 
> 10 Update?  Some have reported it has happened to them.
> 
> To check the COM port that is assigned, open Device Manager and expand the 
> PORTS listing.  Then unplug the USB connector and see which COM port goes 
> away - now plug it back in and observe which COM port is assigned.
> 
> Plug that COM port into K3 Utility or any other application that you are 
> using to communicate with the K3.
> 
> If you don't see a COM port assigned, then suspect the USB to serial adapter 
> - reload its drivers to see if that fixes it.
> 
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
> 
>> On 6/2/2018 3:10 PM, Mark Wheeler wrote:
>> Wayne,
>> No I cannot. The command tester tab and terminal tab are grayed out.
>> Mark
>> WU6R
>> Sent from my iPad
>>> On May 30, 2018, at 11:40 PM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:
>>> 
>>> Can you communicate with the K3 using a simple terminal server? E.g., send 
>>> “FA;” and see if you get the VFO A frequency in response.
>>> 
>>> That would demonstrate that the port and driver are working.
>>> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

2018-06-02 Thread Jack Brindle

Jeff;

Do I understand that for the first test you are driving the antenna through the 
KPA500 and KAT500 (with KAT500 in bypass)? If so, it makes a lot of sense that 
you will see different SWR. The KPA and KAT are providing a completely 
different load for the K3. The better test is to feed the antenna directly from 
the K3 without the KPA and KAT in-line. I would expect you to see a closer 
match at that point, although I doubt they will ever be identical due to the 
differences in the directional couplers in the K3 vs the KAT500 (and KPA500 for 
that matter).

Jack, W6FB


> On Jun 2, 2018, at 8:48 AM, jeff griffin  wrote:
> 
> I recently brought my KPA/KAT500 north for the summer and hooked up to my 
> trapped multiband fan dipole that I use here in NJ. I leave my K3 here for 
> remote use and use the amp at my winter home in Florida to use with my Flex 
> 6500 with a Steppir Vertical antenna without the KAT500 tuner. When I got up 
> here I installed the KIO3B option. The install went well with no issues, all 
> looked good so I connected the K3, P3, KAT500, and KPA500 with the Elecraft 
> provided cable set like I do every year. 
> 
> The issue I'm having is an SWR difference between the KAT500 and the K3. For 
> example if I use the K3's internal tuner I can on a chosen frequency achieve 
> an SWR of 1/1. I the put the internal K3 tuner in bypass mode and take the 
> KAT500 out of bypass and set to auto. I then use the xmit button on the K3 to 
> create a tune signal to be sent to the KAT500. The K3 then shows a 1/1, the 
> KAT500 about the same but the KPA500 which is in STBY mode shows around 3/1. 
> What this causes to happen is the Amp will fault out if I try to use any 
> power output. If I check the antenna with a trusted SWR meter I see 1.3/1 at 
> the frequency of use. I upgraded the firmware in all the devices in use, I 
> also did a reset of the KAT's stored frequencies memory, and checked both the 
> amp and tuner with the utility programs. I'm going to call Elecraft on 
> Monday, anyone have any ideas in the meantime I can try?
> 
> 73 Jeff kb2m   
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread EricJ

I traded a 75A2 for a new 6m Gooney III in 1960. I worked nothing but 6m 
for the next two years until I went in the Army in 1962.


Spent many a night on SF's Twin Peaks with that radio. One of my 
happiest times in ham radio. I'm pretty sure 50.125 was calling 
frequency then too. The band was all AM. CW was rare. SSB was mostly 
non-existent.


Eric


On 6/2/2018 12:46 PM, Bob wrote:

And the yellow 6 meter "Gooney box" borrowed from CD.

Well still not wealthy but maybe I should upgrade and put together the 
Johnson 6N2 new in the box kit that rests in the basement.


73,
Bob
K2TK  ex KN2TKR (1956) and K2TKR

On 6/2/2018 3:10 PM, Fred Jensen wrote:
Yep, that Heath Sixer was quite a rig.  If you were wealthy, you 
could move up to a Johnson 6N2. [:-)


73,

Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW
Sparks NV DM09dn
Washoe County

On 6/2/2018 10:01 AM, Mel Farrer via Elecraft wrote:

I have been on 6M since 1956.  Ahhh those were the days.
Mel, K6KBE



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[Elecraft] Monitoring 6M For Openings

2018-06-02 Thread Jim Brown

I do it several ways. First, the map, at dxmaps.com stays in my browser 
full time during E-skip season. If I'm in the shack, I monitor the FT8 
frequency -- I've found it's a far better indicator than the calling 
frequency that something is happening (or not). Third, I monitor Ping 
Jockey, and occasionally ON4KST chat to spot possible meteor scatter QSO 
partners.


Before the advent of FT8, which for some strange reason has parked at 
50.313, I monitored the JT65 frequency, 50.276, and set my P3 to watch 
50.080 to 50.280, which allowed me to see everything but FM activity. 
Now, if I'm monitoring FT8, I can no longer monitor CW.


73, Jim K9YC
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Re: [Elecraft] Windows 10 Update Breaks COM Port for K3 & P3 Utilities

2018-06-02 Thread Don Wilhelm


Mark,

Are you using the USB interface on the K3S, or a USB to serial adapter 
to connect to the K3?


If that is the case, did the assigned COM port get changed with the 
Windows 10 Update?  Some have reported it has happened to them.


To check the COM port that is assigned, open Device Manager and expand 
the PORTS listing.  Then unplug the USB connector and see which COM port 
goes away - now plug it back in and observe which COM port is assigned.


Plug that COM port into K3 Utility or any other application that you are 
using to communicate with the K3.


If you don't see a COM port assigned, then suspect the USB to serial 
adapter - reload its drivers to see if that fixes it.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 6/2/2018 3:10 PM, Mark Wheeler wrote:

Wayne,

No I cannot. The command tester tab and terminal tab are grayed out.

Mark
WU6R

Sent from my iPad


On May 30, 2018, at 11:40 PM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:

Can you communicate with the K3 using a simple terminal server? E.g., send 
“FA;” and see if you get the VFO A frequency in response.

That would demonstrate that the port and driver are working.


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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Bob McGraw K4TAX

Absolutely correct!  These old farts, gum beaters and false teeth 
clackers,  are usually running 100 watts or so to outside 
non-directional antennas and are often no more than 20 miles apart.   If 
challenged one will be told that "we were hear first and you should move 
on".   They do not recognize the national calling frequency by 
gentleman's agreement.    Seems like hours and hours of QSO's takes 
place as "members" of the group come in and out during the evenings.


I've often heard stations in the distant calling CQ and I've answered 
them on the calling frequency and asked the distant station to QSY up or 
down 5.  Then I hear about me QRM'm their QSO.    Crap  such as this is 
one reason I stopped contesting on VHF.


73

Bob, K4TAX



On 6/2/2018 1:52 PM, Bert Rollen wrote:

We have several fools around here in Tennessee that are often oblivious to openings on 
50.125.  The edge of an opening can be pretty sharp, and even 5-10 miles in the 
"wrong direction", they will never know it... and keep on yakking. for 
hours at a time.

(honestly, they know better.  They just don’t care)

de K4AR

-



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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Bob


And the yellow 6 meter "Gooney box" borrowed from CD.

Well still not wealthy but maybe I should upgrade and put together the Johnson 
6N2 new in the box kit that rests in the basement.


73,
Bob
K2TK  ex KN2TKR (1956) and K2TKR

On 6/2/2018 3:10 PM, Fred Jensen wrote:
Yep, that Heath Sixer was quite a rig.  If you were wealthy, you could move up 
to a Johnson 6N2. [:-)


73,

Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW
Sparks NV DM09dn
Washoe County

On 6/2/2018 10:01 AM, Mel Farrer via Elecraft wrote:

I have been on 6M since 1956.  Ahhh those were the days.
Mel, K6KBE



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[Elecraft] KPAK3AUX maximum length

2018-06-02 Thread Bill Stravinsky via Elecraft

I had asked Elecraft back in August when I ordered my 1500 about making a 
longer cable.
This was the response back then:
Thanks for the contact.  To your questions on the AUX cables, you can actually 
connect 2 of them in series without a problem.  This will give you about 6 feet 
of cabling.  We've tested this with our E850463 cables on a KPA500 and it will 
work, assuming you don't have a problem with RF in the shack at 1500 watts.
The limiting factor in extending the AUX cables is that the high-speed, 
single-wire AUX BUS system we use in the K3/K3S is extended to the KPA1500 so 
that the amp can 'talk' to the radio.   The increased capacitance of the AUX 
cables are the limiting factor as extender cables are added.
So, plan on a maximum of 6 feet or 2 E850463 AUX cables.
Now that was back then and I don't know if there has been any more testing or 
engineering accomplished.  I opted for two cables to let me put the amp where I 
wanted it.  I had seen an article about making a longercable for the kpa500 by 
AD5X.
BillK3WJV

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Re: [Elecraft] Boldly OT: 6 meter Sporadic-E season and the FT-8 microjuggernaut

2018-06-02 Thread Scott


Hi Lynn,

True and a very nice map it is indeed.  The issue I was trying to point 
out and not doing a very good job is that with gab or twitter the band 
opening data could be "pushed out" to subscribers in near real time, 
something needed for quick openings on 6m.  Besides who doesn't own a 
smart phone?  I suspect a large percentage of hams do and if they want 
basic band opening data that surely is one way to "get it out" quickly 
unless there is some huge server delay.   There may be something already 
out on the internet that does something like this I'm just not aware of it.


I could be wrong, but a quick look around WSPRnet.org did not show me 
anyway to get data except for me going there and digging it out. 
Nothing wrong with that, just not what I thought Wayne was looking for. 
I had thought I might help out WSPRnet in the near future as the idea of 
running a low power beacon has peaked my interest of late.


All the best and 73.

Scott
AD5HS

On 6/2/2018 1:07 PM, Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT wrote:

Take a look at wsprnet.org.

No twitter, nothing funky, just a map showing stations that are 
transmitting and who hears them.


73 -- Lynn

On 6/2/2018 10:28 AM, Scott wrote:
3)  Now to beat up the computer geeks.  Someone could set up a twitter 
or gab account and advertise it to the ham community at large via 
reflectors and use the account specifically for reporting band 
openings.   Then you could get notified on the ubiquitous smart phone 
and who knows maybe there is or will be soon a rig remote control app 
for your phone.

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[Elecraft] KPA Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread William Levy

I have been cooling amplifiers 1980. I built an 8877 amd it had a blower.
I don't understand the fan noise problem. Tubes and Transistors need
cooling.
The more the better. Earphones are the answer if you can't hear the weak
ones.
Frankly I don't care about the weak ones. Probabliy can't hear the weak
ones anyway at 70! I remember the very first Alpha has water cooling. That
was a nuisance!
73 all,

Bill N2WL
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Re: [Elecraft] Windows 10 Update Breaks COM Port for K3 & P3 Utilities

2018-06-02 Thread Wayne Burdick

What I meant was, can you use some other program besides K3 Utility, like 
Hyperterm, etc. (a simple terminal server) to communicate with the K3? An 
updated terminal utility may have been included with your new OS.

Wayne

> On Jun 2, 2018, at 12:10 PM, Mark Wheeler  wrote:
> 
> Wayne,
> 
> No I cannot. The command tester tab and terminal tab are grayed out.
> 
> Mark
> WU6R 
> 
> Sent from my iPad
> 
>> On May 30, 2018, at 11:40 PM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:
>> 
>> Can you communicate with the K3 using a simple terminal server? E.g., send 
>> “FA;” and see if you get the VFO A frequency in response.
>> 
>> That would demonstrate that the port and driver are working. 
>> 
>> Wayne


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise with added VGA comments

2018-06-02 Thread Bob


Not from Elecraft but...

Yes the caution is warranted for "VGA" cables.  They are not always pin for pin 
and can do two things wrong. One is that not all pins are wired and the other is 
worse as they sometimes tie the shields together shorting out needed pins. There 
are multiple versions of VGA cables.


My source for the correct cables is L-Com here:

http://www.l-com.com/d-sub-high-density-d-sub-cable-assemblies

I've had good luck with products from them being reasonably priced and good 
quality.  I'd just get the length I'd need rather than an extension.  An 
extension adds another failure point as with all  cabling jobs.


73,
Bob
K2TK  ex KN2TKR (1956) & K2TKR



On 6/2/2018 1:42 PM, James F. Boehner MD via Elecraft wrote:

I would ask someone from Elecraft to respond to the VGA extension cable
question.  It seems everywhere I read within Elecraft Documentation is that
standard VGA cables should NOT be used.  In regards to extensions, I do not
know if they all work pin to pin, or that they are meant to just extend
standard VGA cables.

It certainly would be a way to extend the distance between the K3/K3S and
the KPA1500, but still retain the functionality between the two.  When the
new firmware comes out, and the amp can be controlled by the function
buttons on the K3 (PF1-operate/stby and PF2-antenna switch), it would be a
sure winner.

'73 de JIM N2ZZ


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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Fred Jensen

Yep, that Heath Sixer was quite a rig.  If you were wealthy, you could 
move up to a Johnson 6N2. [:-)


73,

Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW
Sparks NV DM09dn
Washoe County

On 6/2/2018 10:01 AM, Mel Farrer via Elecraft wrote:

I have been on 6M since 1956.  Ahhh those were the days.
Mel, K6KBE



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Re: [Elecraft] Windows 10 Update Breaks COM Port for K3 & P3 Utilities

2018-06-02 Thread Mark Wheeler

Wayne,

No I cannot. The command tester tab and terminal tab are grayed out.

Mark
WU6R 

Sent from my iPad

> On May 30, 2018, at 11:40 PM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:
> 
> Can you communicate with the K3 using a simple terminal server? E.g., send 
> “FA;” and see if you get the VFO A frequency in response.
> 
> That would demonstrate that the port and driver are working. 
> 
> Wayne
> 
> 
> 
> 
> http://www.elecraft.com
> 
>> On May 30, 2018, at 4:48 PM, Mark Wheeler  wrote:
>> 
>> Wayne,
>> 
>> Yes, I confirmed the USB port does function with my external DVD-ROM drive. 
>> I reinstalled my RT Systems software for my Icom IC-5100A. It worked without 
>> a hitch.
>> 
>> Mark
>> WU6R 
>> 
>>> On May 28, 2018, at 7:25 PM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:
>>> 
>>> Not so sure. For example, see:
>>> 
>>>  
>>> https://www.windows10forums.com/threads/com-ports-since-last-april-update-faulty.16976/
>>> 
>>> If I find anything more relevant I’ll let you know.
>>> 
>>> Meanwhile, can you confirm that your PC’s COM ports still work with other 
>>> devices, and that the K3/P3 still work with the previous OS?
>>> 
>>> 73,
>>> Wayne
>>> N6KR
>>> 
>>> 
 On May 28, 2018, at 4:12 AM, Mark Wheeler  wrote:
 
 Wayne,
 
 There were tons of problems listed associated with the latest windows 10 
 update, but none were COM port issues.  The search for a solution 
 continues...  Thanks.
 
 Mark
 WU6R
 
> On May 27, 2018, at 06:43 AM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:
> 
> Try this:
> 
> https://www.ghacks.net/2018/05/01/all-the-issues-of-windows-10-version-1803-you-may-run-into/
> 
> Wayne
> 
> 
>> On May 27, 2018, at 7:29 AM, Mark Wheeler  wrote:
>> 
>> With the latest Windows 10 update earlier this week, my K3S and P3 can 
>> no longer communicate with my Windows 10 PC via the USB cables. I’ve 
>> gone into Device Manager and right clicked on the COM12 device drive and 
>> clicked “update driver” and that updated from a 2016 driver to a 2017 CM 
>> port driver, but neither connect the PC to my K3S or P3. Any 
>> suggestions? Thank you.
>> 
>> Mark
>> WU6R
>> (formally KM6HFR)
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>>> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Fred Jensen

Yes John, and it turns out to be a fairly simple equation if you make a 
few assumptions.  Around 1958 or so and a student [sophomore], I spent 
the summer with a small crew building KPFK on Mt. Wilson in Los 
Angeles.  The TX was almost totally homebrew [REL serrasoid exciter], 
with 4 4-1000A's in the PA [4 parallel class-C 4-1000A's at 90.7 Mcs was 
a bit of a challenge [:-) ].  About to return to school, I was reviewing 
the physics I'd supposedly learned the previous year and realized I 
should be able to calculate the efficiency of the PA from the smattering 
of thermodynamics I knew.  Tx engineers don't have much to do until 
something breaks.


I knew the pressure difference between the air inlet and the exhaust 
[quite small, there was a differential manometer], the filaments 
dissipated 600 W, nearly all in heat, and I knew the temp difference 
between the gozinta and gozouta air so I could calculate the mass of the 
air moving per unit time or so I thought.  Then, with the PA on and 
stable [3.5 A @ ~5.8 KV], I could do it again only this time calculate 
the power lost to heat the air.  Subtract the 600 W from the filaments, 
and I got 69.4%. I assumed the air was heated at constant pressure, my 
calculus hadn't progressed far enough to do otherwise.


After I went back to school, they finally measured the efficiency on a 
2-stage oil/water cooled dummy load and called me and said they got 
71.3%.  If it doesn't go up the 3 1/8" hardline, it comes out as heat 
... somewhere.  There's only two options.


I'm a little surprised at the obsession with fan noise ... I'd like to 
hear about how much more DX everyone is working with a KPA1500.


73,

Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW
Sparks NV DM09dn
Washoe County

On 6/2/2018 1:06 AM, John Perlick wrote:

Bill Schmidt is right--you have to get rid of a bunch of heat--no matter what 
device you are using to amplify (tubes, transistors, or magic). The amplifying 
device must dissipate considerable heat because we are running Class AB and 
because of all electronic devices are naturally lossy.




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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Bill Stravinsky via Elecraft

 After I ordered my kpa1500 back in August I asked that same question to 
Elecraft.  My intent was to make my own AUX cable to put the amp where I 
wanted.The response was that the AUX BUS can only be so long and it was hinted 
that about 7 or 8 ft might be the most you should have.  Since one AUX cable 
wouldn'tbe nearly enough I ordered two of them and have the amp where I 
originally planned to put it.  The  AUX BUS line is the critical one.
BillK3WJV

On Saturday, June 2, 2018, 1:46:06 PM EDT, James F. Boehner MD via Elecraft 
 wrote:  

 I would ask someone from Elecraft to respond to the VGA extension cable
question.  It seems everywhere I read within Elecraft Documentation is that
standard VGA cables should NOT be used.  In regards to extensions, I do not
know if they all work pin to pin, or that they are meant to just extend
standard VGA cables.

It certainly would be a way to extend the distance between the K3/K3S and
the KPA1500, but still retain the functionality between the two.  When the
new firmware comes out, and the amp can be controlled by the function
buttons on the K3 (PF1-operate/stby and PF2-antenna switch), it would be a
sure winner.

'73 de JIM N2ZZ

[Since the cable pin out is straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F
extension cable would suffice?]

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Les Peters
Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2018 12:08 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net; elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

Jim I agree with your personal observations.  I run some high duty cycle
modes so I notice the fans kicking into speed 3 a lot when the PA temp gets
to 68-70 degrees.  That setting does a good job of reducing the temp and
keeping it from climbing past 73 degrees.  I've changed my min fan speed
threshold from 0 to 1 to also help.  As you have pointed out 1 is barely
perceptible and this helps to reduce the amount of time that fan speeds are
on 2+.

I'd like to have more separation between the K3S and the KPA1500 RF deck to
further distance any noise but the KPAK3AUX cable is only about five feet
long, it would be great if that were more like ten feet.  Since the cable
pin out is straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F extension cable
would suffice?  That would put the potential fan noise even further away but
have the RF deck still plenty close enough to view.

Les, N1SV

#113

> Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 23:07:20 -0400
>    From: "James F. Boehner MD"
>    To: "'Elecraft Reflector'"
>    Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise
>    Message-ID: <002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com
mailto:002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com >
>    Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"
> 
>    Just thought I would add a few thoughts as far as the fan noise.
> 
>    I'm not certain a YouTube piece would help, but perhaps personal
observations might.
> 
>    First, via the menu, you can select the minimum fan speed, 0-5. Of
course, the fan speed will go up with the Amp temperature.
> 
>    These are my personal observations:
> 
>    0-Nothing
>    1-Barely perceptible
>    2-Acceptable fan noise, even for SSB operating. Low pitched whine
>    3-The noise and the pitch of the whine is past the acceptable point.
Even a very directional mic will probably pick up the noise. This is where
Noise Cancelling headphones would start to help.
>    4-Louder and higher pitched whine
>    5-Very loud and higher pitched whine
> 
>    So, the fan noise becomes particularly bothersome on level 3 and
above. If you are doing CW and/or Digital, the noise will only be a factor
with the operator. On SSB, the noise will probably be noticeable on the air.
However, the SSB duty cycle may not require higher fan speeds. Those who
have been active in contests will probably know that answer.
> 
>    Rich, if fan noise is going to be that strong a factor, perhaps you
should be looking at tube amps instead. Personally, if I found the KPA-1500
fan noise excessive in the future, I would plan on moving it off my desk or
remoting it rather than replacing it. It's integration with the K3 would be
very hard to give up.
> 
> 
>    ?73 de JIM N2ZZ
>    #106
>    **
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

Les,
Good advice to check with Elecraft. I believe there are 4 parallel wires for
12V+ and 4 parallel wires for 12V- in the cable. I think most if not all of
the 15 pins are used. I believe there is a 12V, 3A supply in the PS box for
the RF deck.
73,
N2TK, Tony

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of James F. Boehner MD
via Elecraft
Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2018 1:43 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

I would ask someone from Elecraft to respond to the VGA extension cable
question.  It seems everywhere I read within Elecraft Documentation is that
standard VGA cables should NOT be used.  In regards to extensions, I do not
know if they all work pin to pin, or that they are meant to just extend
standard VGA cables.

It certainly would be a way to extend the distance between the K3/K3S and
the KPA1500, but still retain the functionality between the two.  When the
new firmware comes out, and the amp can be controlled by the function
buttons on the K3 (PF1-operate/stby and PF2-antenna switch), it would be a
sure winner.

'73 de JIM N2ZZ


[Since the cable pin out is straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F
extension cable would suffice?]

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Les Peters
Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2018 12:08 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net; elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

Jim I agree with your personal observations.  I run some high duty cycle
modes so I notice the fans kicking into speed 3 a lot when the PA temp gets
to 68-70 degrees.  That setting does a good job of reducing the temp and
keeping it from climbing past 73 degrees.  I've changed my min fan speed
threshold from 0 to 1 to also help.  As you have pointed out 1 is barely
perceptible and this helps to reduce the amount of time that fan speeds are
on 2+.


I'd like to have more separation between the K3S and the KPA1500 RF deck to
further distance any noise but the KPAK3AUX cable is only about five feet
long, it would be great if that were more like ten feet.  Since the cable
pin out is straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F extension cable
would suffice?  That would put the potential fan noise even further away but
have the RF deck still plenty close enough to view.


Les, N1SV

#113

> Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 23:07:20 -0400
> From: "James F. Boehner MD"
> To: "'Elecraft Reflector'"
> Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise
> Message-ID: <002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com
mailto:002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com >
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"
> 
> Just thought I would add a few thoughts as far as the fan noise.
> 
> I'm not certain a YouTube piece would help, but perhaps personal
observations might.
> 
> First, via the menu, you can select the minimum fan speed, 0-5. Of
course, the fan speed will go up with the Amp temperature.
> 
> These are my personal observations:
> 
> 0-Nothing
> 1-Barely perceptible
> 2-Acceptable fan noise, even for SSB operating. Low pitched whine
> 3-The noise and the pitch of the whine is past the acceptable point.
Even a very directional mic will probably pick up the noise. This is where
Noise Cancelling headphones would start to help.
> 4-Louder and higher pitched whine
> 5-Very loud and higher pitched whine
> 
> So, the fan noise becomes particularly bothersome on level 3 and
above. If you are doing CW and/or Digital, the noise will only be a factor
with the operator. On SSB, the noise will probably be noticeable on the air.
However, the SSB duty cycle may not require higher fan speeds. Those who
have been active in contests will probably know that answer.
> 
> Rich, if fan noise is going to be that strong a factor, perhaps 
> you
should be looking at tube amps instead. Personally, if I found the KPA-1500
fan noise excessive in the future, I would plan on moving it off my desk or
remoting it rather than replacing it. It's integration with the K3 would be
very hard to give up.
> 
> 
> ?73 de JIM N2ZZ
> #106
> **
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Bert Rollen

We have several fools around here in Tennessee that are often oblivious to 
openings on 50.125.  The edge of an opening can be pretty sharp, and even 5-10 
miles in the "wrong direction", they will never know it... and keep on 
yakking. for hours at a time.

(honestly, they know better.  They just don’t care)

de K4AR

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net  On 
Behalf Of Rose
Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 12:52 PM
To: Elecraft Reflector 
Subject: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

IMO … based on years of 6M operating.

Use 50.125 as a calling frequency -only-.  NEVER hold a QSO, however "short", 
on this frequency.  Typically one would say "CQ, this is XXX, listening 
50.125(+), if wanting SSB QSO's or 50.125(-) or so if wanting CW QSO's.  After 
the initial CQ, I seldom even listen to 50.125 for a reply.

Simply put, I won't be the source of QRM on the calling frequency.

I'm supposedly in a rare grid and have sometimes had a "run" of several hours 
duration, based on just one initial call on 50.125.

FWIW ...

73!

Ken - K0PP
DN36 - Montana
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted

2018-06-02 Thread Bill Stravinsky via Elecraft

 So far for the short time I've had the 1500, I've used it very heavily in WPX 
CW recently.  At constant running , sometimes getting no answers which is 
probably max duty cyclefor this kind of operating, I never went over about 74 
degrees C which kicks in fan speed 3 (I think, hi, I had it manually on 3 
anyway in this situation and of course 1500 watts).

BillK3WJV

On Saturday, June 2, 2018, 6:47:03 AM EDT, j...@kk9a.com  
wrote:  
 
 Nice video Don. Speed 4 and 5 might be like trying to operate with the XYL
vacuuming around you. I wonder what duty cycle and power level it takes
for these speeds to kick in. It was good to see a comparison with the tube
amps. My Alphas were hardly noticeable when running but remember they are
significantly larger and do not require a 3, 4 or 5 fan speed setting.

John KK9A


Don Butler n5lz wrote:

In response to N5ZC’s request  I just made this short video to provide a
listen to the KPA1500's fans ... at least as they sound in my shack. 
Follow this link to view: https://vimeo.com/273064144

In addition to the KPA1500 the video also includes footage of my Alpha
9500 and Icom PA1 … each running with their fans at maximum speed … to
provide a simple rather crude comparison.

What do I think?  I think that fan speed 1 and fan speed 2 on the KPA1500
are probably comparable to the fans that are installed on the other
amplifiers as far as sound and efficiency are concerned and likely provide
a similar degree of cooling at those speeds.  And, I think that fan
speeds 3, 4, and 5 (which are indeed noisy) provide the KPA1500 with
enhanced cooling capability that is simply not available on other
amplifiers.

Don, N5LZ

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Re: [Elecraft] Boldly OT: 6 meter Sporadic-E season and the FT-8 microjuggernaut

2018-06-02 Thread rich hurd WC3T

Hi Scott,

Five times "yes" - one for each of the points you raise.  I am a huge
proponent of "if everybody's listening, nobody's going to make a QSO."
I'm on the southern end of my fifties and I'm realizing now that although I
really love Morse Code, I seriously doubt that I'll be able to be as
productive as quickly as I can with things like computer assisted code
translation.

Heck, Wayne and company must have thought so too, or they wouldn't have
spent time implementing a decoder in their firmware, right?

Doesn't stop me from wanting to do it.  I just unboxed a Vibroplex single
lever paddle I bought on the Zed and I'm trying to make my way through
"Just Learn Morse Code" and LCWO.And yes, I know all about CW Academy
but I don't have the spare time to do it justice, so I am working on
alternative means.

Thanks for a refreshing, reassuring note of support.

On Sat, Jun 2, 2018 at 1:28 PM Scott  wrote:

> Wayne,
>
> I'll give answering your question a try.  Hopefully I won't piss off
> everyone... and it won't be too long.
>
> 0).  First, monitor beacons or participate in the RBN for band openings
> and then call CQ on open bands.  Heck, call CQ on "closed" bands... one
> never knows.  I suspect there are more band openings than most would
> admit or even know about and maybe we need more hams willing to set up
> beacons.  I once copied a SSB qso of ON4UN and a stateside ham on 15m
> when all the prop computer programs said 15m was closed.
>
> 1).  CW ops should make MORE use of the computer... especially for
> calling CQ.  Once a reply is heard switch to "manual" cw mode (this is
> nothing new) AND adjust speed to station answering your CQ.  Nothing
> worse than an experienced cw op who won't bother to "talk" to a slow
> sending station... nothing.  It just sends the inexperienced cwop to
> digital and/or ssb where someone will likely answer no matter the "speed".
>
> 2)   CW ops need to not be prejudiced against keyboard sent code,
> especially at slower speeds or even someone using cw decoding sw.  I
> think younger hams might actually do more if there wasn't such "stink"
> put on ops using a keyboard and decoding sw.  Besides you do want to get
> younger hams interested in ham radio and especially CW... right?  And as
> time goes on those young or even old keyboard cw warriors may or may not
> learn to send with a paddle or a key but you've got to get them
> interested in CW first.  For some, it's an age vs. memory issue
> especially hams who started late in life.
>
> 3)  Now to beat up the computer geeks.  Someone could set up a twitter
> or gab account and advertise it to the ham community at large via
> reflectors and use the account specifically for reporting band openings.
>   Then you could get notified on the ubiquitous smart phone and who
> knows maybe there is or will be soon a rig remote control app for your
> phone.
>
> 4)  Digital mode software can be a bear to configure.  Clearly there
> should be just one or two "tabs" max to get it working quickly and all
> the other program integration configuration is icing on the cake.
> Complexity in a basic "getting it working" configuration is not good.
> And how about making the program/app window and fonts larger for crying
> out loud... I don't see as well as I used to and with the proliferation
> of large monitors these programs are a pain to even see anymore.  While
> this may increase digital ops I also believe that at some point even
> some digital ops will want to try and learn cw.
>
> 5)  Finally, I've noticed that a lot of younger millenials like "old
> school" stuff from LP 33 records to radio.  IF you can get them
> interested in Ham radio (a shameless plug for expanded tech privileges)
> there's a good chance they'll eventually want to learn cw one way or
> another.  The point is, more hams equals more chances for someone to
> answer your cw CQ.
>
> I doubt any of that helps much except maybe paragraph 3, but there it
> is... thanks for letting me give it a shot.
>
> Scott
> AD5HS
>
> On 6/1/2018 10:46 AM, Wayne Burdick wrote:
> ..
>
> > Yeah, I get the whole sub-noise-floor-and-not-automated-(wink)-QSO
> thing. But I’d like to figure out how those of us who enjoy the occasional
> gear-grinding manual-transmission contact can find each other on this brave
> new highway. Ideas?
> >
> > Wayne
> > N6KR
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-- 
72,
Rich Hurd / WC3T / DMR: 3142737
PA Army MARS, Northampton County RACES, EPA-ARRL Public Information Officer
for Scouting
Latitude: 40.761621 Longitude: -75.288988  (40°45.68' N 75°17.33' W) Grid:
*FN20is*

Re: [Elecraft] Boldly OT: 6 meter Sporadic-E season and the FT-8 microjuggernaut

2018-06-02 Thread Lynn W. Taylor, WB6UUT


Take a look at wsprnet.org.

No twitter, nothing funky, just a map showing stations that are 
transmitting and who hears them.


73 -- Lynn

On 6/2/2018 10:28 AM, Scott wrote:
3)  Now to beat up the computer geeks.  Someone could set up a twitter 
or gab account and advertise it to the ham community at large via 
reflectors and use the account specifically for reporting band openings. 
  Then you could get notified on the ubiquitous smart phone and who 
knows maybe there is or will be soon a rig remote control app for your 
phone.

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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Jim Brown


Hi Ken,

I strongly agree, and when I use the calling frequency, it's exactly as 
you describe. During contests, I refuse to work anyone who uses the 
calling frequency as an operating frequency, even at a different time 
during the contest when he's moved. And when I work someone off the 
calling frequency and hear him later running on the calling frequency, I 
take the Q out of my log. I view using the calling frequency to make 
QSOs as unsportsmanlike conduct.


73, Jim K9YC

On 6/2/2018 9:52 AM, Rose wrote:

IMO … based on years of 6M operating.

Use 50.125 as a calling frequency -only-.  NEVER hold
a QSO, however "short", on this frequency.  Typically
one would say "CQ, this is XXX, listening 50.125(+),
if wanting SSB QSO's or 50.125(-) or so if wanting CW
QSO's.  After the initial CQ, I seldom even listen to 50.125
for a reply.

Simply put, I won't be the source of QRM on the calling
frequency.

I'm supposedly in a rare grid and have sometimes had
a "run" of several hours duration, based on just one
initial call on 50.125.


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Don Wilhelm


Les,

A VGA extension will NOT do the job.  Get a cable with all 15 pins 
connected straight through.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 6/2/2018 12:07 PM, Les Peters wrote:

Jim I agree with your personal observations.  I run some high duty cycle modes 
so I notice the fans kicking into speed 3 a lot when the PA temp gets to 68-70 
degrees.  That setting does a good job of reducing the temp and keeping it from 
climbing past 73 degrees.  I've changed my min fan speed threshold from 0 to 1 
to also help.  As you have pointed out 1 is barely perceptible and this helps 
to reduce the amount of time that fan speeds are on 2+.


I'd like to have more separation between the K3S and the KPA1500 RF deck to 
further distance any noise but the KPAK3AUX cable is only about five feet long, 
it would be great if that were more like ten feet.  Since the cable pin out is 
straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F extension cable would suffice?  
That would put the potential fan noise even further away but have the RF deck 
still plenty close enough to view.


Les, N1SV

#113


Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 23:07:20 -0400
 From: "James F. Boehner MD"
 To: "'Elecraft Reflector'"
 Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise
 Message-ID: <002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com 
mailto:002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com >
 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"

 Just thought I would add a few thoughts as far as the fan noise.

 I'm not certain a YouTube piece would help, but perhaps personal 
observations might.

 First, via the menu, you can select the minimum fan speed, 0-5. Of course, 
the fan speed will go up with the Amp temperature.

 These are my personal observations:

 0-Nothing
 1-Barely perceptible
 2-Acceptable fan noise, even for SSB operating. Low pitched whine
 3-The noise and the pitch of the whine is past the acceptable point. Even 
a very directional mic will probably pick up the noise. This is where Noise 
Cancelling headphones would start to help.
 4-Louder and higher pitched whine
 5-Very loud and higher pitched whine

 So, the fan noise becomes particularly bothersome on level 3 and above. If 
you are doing CW and/or Digital, the noise will only be a factor with the 
operator. On SSB, the noise will probably be noticeable on the air. However, 
the SSB duty cycle may not require higher fan speeds. Those who have been 
active in contests will probably know that answer.

 Rich, if fan noise is going to be that strong a factor, perhaps you should 
be looking at tube amps instead. Personally, if I found the KPA-1500 fan noise 
excessive in the future, I would plan on moving it off my desk or remoting it 
rather than replacing it. It's integration with the K3 would be very hard to 
give up.


 ?73 de JIM N2ZZ
 #106
 **


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

2018-06-02 Thread Don Wilhelm

Jeff,

Check the coax between the KPA500 and the KAT500. Make certain the
connectors are tight. Replace with a different coax if you have one.

You can always do a check on the KPA500 wattmeter by connecting a dummy
load to the KPA500 (no tuner).

73,
Don W3FPR

On 6/2/2018 11:48 AM, jeff griffin wrote:

I recently brought my KPA/KAT500 north for the summer and hooked up to my
trapped multiband fan dipole that I use here in NJ. I leave my K3 here for
remote use and use the amp at my winter home in Florida to use with my Flex
6500 with a Steppir Vertical antenna without the KAT500 tuner. When I got up
here I installed the KIO3B option. The install went well with no issues, all
looked good so I connected the K3, P3, KAT500, and KPA500 with the Elecraft
provided cable set like I do every year.

The issue I'm having is an SWR difference between the KAT500 and the K3. For example if I use the K3's internal tuner I can on a chosen frequency achieve an SWR of 1/1. I the put the internal K3 tuner in bypass mode and take the KAT500 out of bypass and set to auto. I then use the xmit button on the K3 to create a tune signal to be sent to the KAT500. The K3 then shows a 1/1, the KAT500 about the same but the KPA500 which is in STBY mode shows around 3/1. What this causes to happen is the Amp will fault out if I try to use any power output. If I check the antenna with a trusted SWR meter I see 1.3/1 at the frequency of use. I upgraded the firmware in all the devices in use, I also did a reset of the KAT's stored frequencies memory, and checked both the amp and tuner with the utility programs. I'm going to call Elecraft on Monday, anyone have any ideas in the meantime I can try?

73 Jeff kb2m

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[Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread James F. Boehner MD via Elecraft

I would ask someone from Elecraft to respond to the VGA extension cable
question.  It seems everywhere I read within Elecraft Documentation is that
standard VGA cables should NOT be used.  In regards to extensions, I do not
know if they all work pin to pin, or that they are meant to just extend
standard VGA cables.

It certainly would be a way to extend the distance between the K3/K3S and
the KPA1500, but still retain the functionality between the two.  When the
new firmware comes out, and the amp can be controlled by the function
buttons on the K3 (PF1-operate/stby and PF2-antenna switch), it would be a
sure winner.

'73 de JIM N2ZZ


[Since the cable pin out is straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F
extension cable would suffice?]

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Les Peters
Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2018 12:08 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net; elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

Jim I agree with your personal observations.  I run some high duty cycle
modes so I notice the fans kicking into speed 3 a lot when the PA temp gets
to 68-70 degrees.  That setting does a good job of reducing the temp and
keeping it from climbing past 73 degrees.  I've changed my min fan speed
threshold from 0 to 1 to also help.  As you have pointed out 1 is barely
perceptible and this helps to reduce the amount of time that fan speeds are
on 2+.


I'd like to have more separation between the K3S and the KPA1500 RF deck to
further distance any noise but the KPAK3AUX cable is only about five feet
long, it would be great if that were more like ten feet.  Since the cable
pin out is straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F extension cable
would suffice?  That would put the potential fan noise even further away but
have the RF deck still plenty close enough to view.


Les, N1SV

#113

> Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 23:07:20 -0400
> From: "James F. Boehner MD"
> To: "'Elecraft Reflector'"
> Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise
> Message-ID: <002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com
mailto:002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com >
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"
> 
> Just thought I would add a few thoughts as far as the fan noise.
> 
> I'm not certain a YouTube piece would help, but perhaps personal
observations might.
> 
> First, via the menu, you can select the minimum fan speed, 0-5. Of
course, the fan speed will go up with the Amp temperature.
> 
> These are my personal observations:
> 
> 0-Nothing
> 1-Barely perceptible
> 2-Acceptable fan noise, even for SSB operating. Low pitched whine
> 3-The noise and the pitch of the whine is past the acceptable point.
Even a very directional mic will probably pick up the noise. This is where
Noise Cancelling headphones would start to help.
> 4-Louder and higher pitched whine
> 5-Very loud and higher pitched whine
> 
> So, the fan noise becomes particularly bothersome on level 3 and
above. If you are doing CW and/or Digital, the noise will only be a factor
with the operator. On SSB, the noise will probably be noticeable on the air.
However, the SSB duty cycle may not require higher fan speeds. Those who
have been active in contests will probably know that answer.
> 
> Rich, if fan noise is going to be that strong a factor, perhaps you
should be looking at tube amps instead. Personally, if I found the KPA-1500
fan noise excessive in the future, I would plan on moving it off my desk or
remoting it rather than replacing it. It's integration with the K3 would be
very hard to give up.
> 
> 
> ?73 de JIM N2ZZ
> #106
> **
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] Boldly OT: 6 meter Sporadic-E season and the FT-8 microjuggernaut

2018-06-02 Thread Scott


Wayne,

I'll give answering your question a try.  Hopefully I won't piss off 
everyone... and it won't be too long.


0).  First, monitor beacons or participate in the RBN for band openings 
and then call CQ on open bands.  Heck, call CQ on "closed" bands... one 
never knows.  I suspect there are more band openings than most would 
admit or even know about and maybe we need more hams willing to set up 
beacons.  I once copied a SSB qso of ON4UN and a stateside ham on 15m 
when all the prop computer programs said 15m was closed.


1).  CW ops should make MORE use of the computer... especially for 
calling CQ.  Once a reply is heard switch to "manual" cw mode (this is 
nothing new) AND adjust speed to station answering your CQ.  Nothing 
worse than an experienced cw op who won't bother to "talk" to a slow 
sending station... nothing.  It just sends the inexperienced cwop to 
digital and/or ssb where someone will likely answer no matter the "speed".


2)   CW ops need to not be prejudiced against keyboard sent code, 
especially at slower speeds or even someone using cw decoding sw.  I 
think younger hams might actually do more if there wasn't such "stink" 
put on ops using a keyboard and decoding sw.  Besides you do want to get 
younger hams interested in ham radio and especially CW... right?  And as 
time goes on those young or even old keyboard cw warriors may or may not 
learn to send with a paddle or a key but you've got to get them 
interested in CW first.  For some, it's an age vs. memory issue 
especially hams who started late in life.


3)  Now to beat up the computer geeks.  Someone could set up a twitter 
or gab account and advertise it to the ham community at large via 
reflectors and use the account specifically for reporting band openings. 
 Then you could get notified on the ubiquitous smart phone and who 
knows maybe there is or will be soon a rig remote control app for your 
phone.


4)  Digital mode software can be a bear to configure.  Clearly there 
should be just one or two "tabs" max to get it working quickly and all 
the other program integration configuration is icing on the cake. 
Complexity in a basic "getting it working" configuration is not good. 
And how about making the program/app window and fonts larger for crying 
out loud... I don't see as well as I used to and with the proliferation 
of large monitors these programs are a pain to even see anymore.  While 
this may increase digital ops I also believe that at some point even 
some digital ops will want to try and learn cw.


5)  Finally, I've noticed that a lot of younger millenials like "old 
school" stuff from LP 33 records to radio.  IF you can get them 
interested in Ham radio (a shameless plug for expanded tech privileges) 
there's a good chance they'll eventually want to learn cw one way or 
another.  The point is, more hams equals more chances for someone to 
answer your cw CQ.


I doubt any of that helps much except maybe paragraph 3, but there it 
is... thanks for letting me give it a shot.


Scott
AD5HS

On 6/1/2018 10:46 AM, Wayne Burdick wrote:
..


Yeah, I get the whole sub-noise-floor-and-not-automated-(wink)-QSO thing. But 
I’d like to figure out how those of us who enjoy the occasional gear-grinding 
manual-transmission contact can find each other on this brave new highway. 
Ideas?

Wayne
N6KR

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Re: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Mel Farrer via Elecraft

There are several "watering holes"  on 6M.  50.140, 50.250, etc.  Mainly local 
groups, but it does let you know when the band is active.  Of course the FM 
channels are a good source also.  I have been on 6M since 1956.  Ahhh those 
were the days.     
Mel, K6KBE

  From: Rose 
 To: Elecraft Reflector  
 Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 9:57 AM
 Subject: [Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

IMO … based on years of 6M operating.

Use 50.125 as a calling frequency -only-.  NEVER hold
a QSO, however "short", on this frequency.  Typically
one would say "CQ, this is XXX, listening 50.125(+),
if wanting SSB QSO's or 50.125(-) or so if wanting CW
QSO's.  After the initial CQ, I seldom even listen to 50.125
for a reply.

Simply put, I won't be the source of QRM on the calling
frequency.

I'm supposedly in a rare grid and have sometimes had
a "run" of several hours duration, based on just one
initial call on 50.125.

FWIW ...

73!

Ken - K0PP
DN36 - Montana
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[Elecraft] OT: 6M proceedure

2018-06-02 Thread Rose

IMO … based on years of 6M operating.

Use 50.125 as a calling frequency -only-.  NEVER hold
a QSO, however "short", on this frequency.  Typically
one would say "CQ, this is XXX, listening 50.125(+),
if wanting SSB QSO's or 50.125(-) or so if wanting CW
QSO's.  After the initial CQ, I seldom even listen to 50.125
for a reply.

Simply put, I won't be the source of QRM on the calling
frequency.

I'm supposedly in a rare grid and have sometimes had
a "run" of several hours duration, based on just one
initial call on 50.125.

FWIW ...

73!

Ken - K0PP
DN36 - Montana
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

George, there is nothing like Eimac Orange with a glass bottle. RF sunburn
:-)

Hey, transistors can run pretty hot too, although they should not melt the
solder. Case temp can get to 150 deg C and junction temp to 225 deg C. Yes
your finger will burn on the case. And yes, the life of many power devices
gets derated based on junction temp. As an example  an LDMOS may have an
MTTF of 1M hours at 150C and 70K hours at 225C junction temp. JANS space
transistors are burned in at 220C and tested up to 125C case temp.

N2TK, Tony

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Gmail - George
Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2018 8:10 AM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

One other thought to keep in mind - solid state amps need a lower delta T
than tube amps. Tubes like to run hot - solid state devices not so much.

I've seen a tube with the fins so hot that the solder was in globs, while
the transmitter was still operating. I doubt any solid state final would
have survived that heat.

When we installed our solid state TV transmitter, it was a new learning
curve in cooling. Both transmitters were 30 kW class AB1. The tube
transmitter moved air faster through 3 tubes but had almost 3 times the
temperature rise than the specs for the solid state transmitter. Our HVAC
company and architect worked on several complex systems with air mixers
until we just decided to use wall mounted air conditioners into the room
behind the transmitter racks and exhausted to the front of the transmitters.

Our solid state transmitter did meet the OSHA limit for 8 hours exposure to
noise but just barely. It was very noisy compared to the tube unit.

No tube transmitter I have ever used had a temperature shut down on any of
the tube stages.

73 George AI4VZ



-Original Message-
From: Don Wilhelm

Only one bit of correction.  If the output power is 1500 watts and the
efficiency is 50%, that 1500 watts is only half the total power consumed, so
there is 1500 watts of power that must be exhausted as heat.

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

2018-06-02 Thread Edward R Cole

Ah, yes ... the desert.  Land of rattlesnakes, hairy spiders, and 
horny toads.  We got none of them in Alaska, absolutely no snakes of 
any flavor, only garden spiders, and only the goldminers are h***.


Enough rain to never water the lawn.  We got snow, too!!

I lived on the edge of the Mojave in Barstow, CA so know the desert.

Tuscon is a nice town; visited in 1997.

73, Ed - KL7UW

From: Wes Stewart 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

What's a basement?? On towertalk they talk about letting the lawn grow over
ground radials.? I wonder what a lawn is.? They also say to install 
ground rods

where the rain will hit them.? I wonder what rain is.

Wes? N7WS


73, Ed - KL7UW
  http://www.kl7uw.com
Dubus-NA Business mail:
  dubus...@gmail.com  


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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Les Peters

Jim I agree with your personal observations.  I run some high duty cycle modes 
so I notice the fans kicking into speed 3 a lot when the PA temp gets to 68-70 
degrees.  That setting does a good job of reducing the temp and keeping it from 
climbing past 73 degrees.  I've changed my min fan speed threshold from 0 to 1 
to also help.  As you have pointed out 1 is barely perceptible and this helps 
to reduce the amount of time that fan speeds are on 2+.


I'd like to have more separation between the K3S and the KPA1500 RF deck to 
further distance any noise but the KPAK3AUX cable is only about five feet long, 
it would be great if that were more like ten feet.  Since the cable pin out is 
straight thru I would imagine a DB15 VGA M-F extension cable would suffice?  
That would put the potential fan noise even further away but have the RF deck 
still plenty close enough to view.


Les, N1SV

#113

> Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 23:07:20 -0400
> From: "James F. Boehner MD"
> To: "'Elecraft Reflector'"
> Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise
> Message-ID: <002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com 
> mailto:002901d3fa1e$d39e0db0$7ada2910$@yahoo.com >
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"
> 
> Just thought I would add a few thoughts as far as the fan noise.
> 
> I'm not certain a YouTube piece would help, but perhaps personal 
> observations might.
> 
> First, via the menu, you can select the minimum fan speed, 0-5. Of 
> course, the fan speed will go up with the Amp temperature.
> 
> These are my personal observations:
> 
> 0-Nothing
> 1-Barely perceptible
> 2-Acceptable fan noise, even for SSB operating. Low pitched whine
> 3-The noise and the pitch of the whine is past the acceptable point. Even 
> a very directional mic will probably pick up the noise. This is where Noise 
> Cancelling headphones would start to help.
> 4-Louder and higher pitched whine
> 5-Very loud and higher pitched whine
> 
> So, the fan noise becomes particularly bothersome on level 3 and above. 
> If you are doing CW and/or Digital, the noise will only be a factor with the 
> operator. On SSB, the noise will probably be noticeable on the air. However, 
> the SSB duty cycle may not require higher fan speeds. Those who have been 
> active in contests will probably know that answer.
> 
> Rich, if fan noise is going to be that strong a factor, perhaps you 
> should be looking at tube amps instead. Personally, if I found the KPA-1500 
> fan noise excessive in the future, I would plan on moving it off my desk or 
> remoting it rather than replacing it. It's integration with the K3 would be 
> very hard to give up.
> 
> 
> ?73 de JIM N2ZZ
> #106
> **
> 
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[Elecraft] KPA500 and K3 SWR meters disagree

2018-06-02 Thread jeff griffin

 I recently brought my KPA/KAT500 north for the summer and hooked up to my 
trapped multiband fan dipole that I use here in NJ. I leave my K3 here for 
remote use and use the amp at my winter home in Florida to use with my Flex 
6500 with a Steppir Vertical antenna without the KAT500 tuner. When I got up 
here I installed the KIO3B option. The install went well with no issues, all 
looked good so I connected the K3, P3, KAT500, and KPA500 with the Elecraft 
provided cable set like I do every year. 
  
 The issue I'm having is an SWR difference between the KAT500 and the K3. For 
example if I use the K3's internal tuner I can on a chosen frequency achieve an 
SWR of 1/1. I the put the internal K3 tuner in bypass mode and take the KAT500 
out of bypass and set to auto. I then use the xmit button on the K3 to create a 
tune signal to be sent to the KAT500. The K3 then shows a 1/1, the KAT500 about 
the same but the KPA500 which is in STBY mode shows around 3/1. What this 
causes to happen is the Amp will fault out if I try to use any power output. If 
I check the antenna with a trusted SWR meter I see 1.3/1 at the frequency of 
use. I upgraded the firmware in all the devices in use, I also did a reset of 
the KAT's stored frequencies memory, and checked both the amp and tuner with 
the utility programs. I'm going to call Elecraft on Monday, anyone have any 
ideas in the meantime I can try?

73 Jeff kb2m   

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread WILLIE BABER

I have a Lunar-LInk System 72 (432 mhz) Amplifier using a pair of 3cx800 
(perfectly designed by K1FO SK), in a cubic package that may actually be 
smaller than the KPA1500 (of course the power supply is external, and the 
blower and T/R relays are attached to the back of the amp).  I had a choice of 
Dayton blowers, one for ssb/cw (60 CFM if I recall correctly) and one for 
moon-bounce or key-down modes (100 CFM, I think).  I got the 100 CFM blower, 
anyway the one that moves more air; 100 CFM makes a lot more noise!

The only discussion about blower noise was to provide this choice (sometime 
after I got my unit it became possible to purchase the 100 CFM blower but it 
ran at two speeds). 

I imagine that levels 4, and 5 are related to key down modes in KPA1500, and 
maybe level 3 as well.  I suppose one can reduce fan or blower noise to some 
extent by paying attention to relevant details about fan and noise but all 
significant variables held constant (like the size of the amp and the power 
output), there is no free lunch (as usual), solid-state or not.

I recall the conduction cooled amps (no fan, no noise), one by Henry Radio (2 x 
8873) and another by Heathkit (one 8873).  You had to reduce power 
significantly for key-down modes, and neither amp made 1500 watts output rtty 
key-down (1000 watts cw for the Henry--but of course this was before the 
current maximum legal power output).  Still, how long you could hold down the 
key depended upon ventilation of the amplifier. Heathkit recommended only 200 
watts output for rtty.  I imagine guys placed fans (making some noise) near the 
heatsinks!

So, to put this into perspective, how long the key can be held down using 
kpa1500 at 1500 watts output power may have something to do with fan speed 
number five!  

If you want "almost silent high power", then try running kpa1500 at 500 watts 
output (about like a conduction cooled amp--but don't hold that key down too 
long without ventilation).

73, Will. wj9b

CWops #1085
CWA Advisor levels II and III
http://cwops.org/

CWops #1085
CWA Advisor levels II and III
http://cwops.org/

On Sat, 6/2/18, Jim via Elecraft  wrote:

 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise
 To: "John Perlick" 
 Cc: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" 
 Date: Saturday, June 2, 2018, 6:20 AM

 I don’t have a dog in this
 fight - someone who spends half the year (the half with all
 the good contests) in a Florida condo is not a candidate for
 buying amps. But might water cooling be a possibility? As in
 a heat sink that sits in water, with appropriate thermal
 shutoff if the water/amp get too warm? 

 And when that happens, get fresh cool water.

 73  - 
 Jim   K8MR

 > On Jun 2, 2018, at 4:06 AM, John Perlick

 wrote:
 > 
 > Bill
 Schmidt is right--you have to get rid of a bunch of heat--no
 matter what device you are using to amplify (tubes,
 transistors, or magic). The amplifying device must dissipate
 considerable heat because we are running Class AB and
 because of all electronic devices are naturally lossy. 
 > 
 > Remember that this
 heat is generated not only in the RF transistors, but also
 in the power supplies, bias circuits, lights, etc.  There
 are lots of heat sources in every amplifier.
 > 
 > I can honestly say
 that my KPA1500 is considerably quieter than the Expert 2KFA
 that I just sold and I would have to say it is quieter than
 my old Alpha 87A.  I do operate it at full 1.5 KW output
 but I suspect my duty cycle on CW has not caused it to so
 how that the fans max out.  Same for the 2KFA, but even at
 low speeds, it was far noisier.  And, the 2KFA has REALLY
 loud T/R relays!  
 >
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted

2018-06-02 Thread Richard Thorne


Don,

That was an excellent video and comparison.

Thanks for taking the time to make it and post it.

I’m only a few weeks away from shipment and really would like the kpa-1500 in 
my RF chain.  I have a kpa-500 and it’s been an outstanding performer.

If the noise ends up being an issue I may consider building a sound barrier 
wall between my op desk and my exterior wall.

Thanks again Don

Rich - N5ZC
Sent from my iPhone

> On Jun 2, 2018, at 7:48 AM, Don Butler  wrote:
> 
> Paul …. The PS noise is minimal from my point of view.  The power supply fans 
> do run continuously while the amp is switched on …. You can hear the PS fans 
> at the beginning and end of the video when the fan speed is set at “0” .. all 
> you’re hearing at that time is the PS fan … at power down right at the end 
> you can hear when the PS fans stop.
> 
> Don, N5LZ
> 
> 
> Sent from Mail for Windows 10
> 
> From: Paul Baldock
> Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 8:38 AM
> To: Don Butler; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted
> 
> Does the power supply make any significant noise?
> 
> - Paul
> 
> At 11:01 PM 6/1/2018, Don Butler wrote:
>> In response to N5ZCâs request  I just made 
>> this short video to provide a listen to the 
>> KPA1500's fans ... at least as they sound in my 
>> shack.  Follow this link to view: 
>> https://vimeo.com/273064144 In addition to the 
>> KPA1500 the video also includes footage of my 
>> Alpha 9500 and Icom PA1 
> each running with 
>> their fans at maximum speed 
> â¦ to provide a 
>> simple rather crude comparison. What do I 
>> think?   I think that fan speed 1 and fan speed 
>> 2 on the KPA1500 are probably comparable to the 
>> fans that are installed on the other amplifiers 
>> as far as sound and efficiency are concerned and 
>> likely provide a similar degree of cooling at 
>> those speeds.   And, I think that fan speeds 3, 
>> 4, and 5 (which are indeed noisy) provide the 
>> KPA1500 with enhanced cooling capability that is 
>> simply not available on other amplifiers. Don, 
>> N5LZ -Original Message- From: 
>> elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
>> [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On 
>> Behalf Of Richard Thorne Sent: Friday, June 01, 
>> 2018 5:55 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
>> Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube 
>> ? This fan noise issue has me concerned to the 
>> point that Iâm considering cancelling my 
>> order. While the amp wonât be on my operating 
>> desk, it will be on a rack next to my operating 
>> desk.  Remoting the amp is not an option. Quite 
>> frankly I have no interest in remoting the amp. 
>> Is there anyone out there that has a KPA-1500 
>> willing to post a YouTube video so we can hear 
>> the fan in action and judge the noise for 
>> ourselves? From the research Iâve done it 
>> appears that if you want a solid state amp, 
>> regardless of make, you need to be prepared for 
>> fan noise. Thanks Rich - N5ZC Sent from my 
>> iPhone 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted

2018-06-02 Thread Don Butler

Paul …. The PS noise is minimal from my point of view.  The power supply fans 
do run continuously while the amp is switched on …. You can hear the PS fans at 
the beginning and end of the video when the fan speed is set at “0” .. all 
you’re hearing at that time is the PS fan … at power down right at the end you 
can hear when the PS fans stop.

Don, N5LZ


Sent from Mail for Windows 10

From: Paul Baldock
Sent: Saturday, June 2, 2018 8:38 AM
To: Don Butler; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted

Does the power supply make any significant noise?

- Paul

At 11:01 PM 6/1/2018, Don Butler wrote:
>In response to N5ZCâs request  I just made 
>this short video to provide a listen to the 
>KPA1500's fans ... at least as they sound in my 
>shack.  Follow this link to view: 
>https://vimeo.com/273064144 In addition to the 
>KPA1500 the video also includes footage of my 
>Alpha 9500 and Icom PA1  each running with 
>their fans at maximum speed â¦ to provide a 
>simple rather crude comparison. What do I 
>think?   I think that fan speed 1 and fan speed 
>2 on the KPA1500 are probably comparable to the 
>fans that are installed on the other amplifiers 
>as far as sound and efficiency are concerned and 
>likely provide a similar degree of cooling at 
>those speeds.   And, I think that fan speeds 3, 
>4, and 5 (which are indeed noisy) provide the 
>KPA1500 with enhanced cooling capability that is 
>simply not available on other amplifiers. Don, 
>N5LZ -Original Message- From: 
>elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
>[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On 
>Behalf Of Richard Thorne Sent: Friday, June 01, 
>2018 5:55 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
>Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube 
>? This fan noise issue has me concerned to the 
>point that Iâm considering cancelling my 
>order. While the amp wonât be on my operating 
>desk, it will be on a rack next to my operating 
>desk.  Remoting the amp is not an option. Quite 
>frankly I have no interest in remoting the amp. 
>Is there anyone out there that has a KPA-1500 
>willing to post a YouTube video so we can hear 
>the fan in action and judge the noise for 
>ourselves? From the research Iâve done it 
>appears that if you want a solid state amp, 
>regardless of make, you need to be prepared for 
>fan noise. Thanks Rich - N5ZC Sent from my 
>iPhone 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted

2018-06-02 Thread Paul Baldock


Does the power supply make any significant noise?

- Paul

At 11:01 PM 6/1/2018, Don Butler wrote:
In response to N5ZCâs request  I just made 
this short video to provide a listen to the 
KPA1500's fans ... at least as they sound in my 
shack.  Follow this link to view: 
https://vimeo.com/273064144 In addition to the 
KPA1500 the video also includes footage of my 
Alpha 9500 and Icom PA1  each running with 
their fans at maximum speed â¦ to provide a 
simple rather crude comparison. What do I 
think?   I think that fan speed 1 and fan speed 
2 on the KPA1500 are probably comparable to the 
fans that are installed on the other amplifiers 
as far as sound and efficiency are concerned and 
likely provide a similar degree of cooling at 
those speeds.   And, I think that fan speeds 3, 
4, and 5 (which are indeed noisy) provide the 
KPA1500 with enhanced cooling capability that is 
simply not available on other amplifiers. Don, 
N5LZ -Original Message- From: 
elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On 
Behalf Of Richard Thorne Sent: Friday, June 01, 
2018 5:55 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube 
? This fan noise issue has me concerned to the 
point that Iâm considering cancelling my 
order. While the amp wonât be on my operating 
desk, it will be on a rack next to my operating 
desk.  Remoting the amp is not an option. Quite 
frankly I have no interest in remoting the amp. 
Is there anyone out there that has a KPA-1500 
willing to post a YouTube video so we can hear 
the fan in action and judge the noise for 
ourselves? From the research Iâve done it 
appears that if you want a solid state amp, 
regardless of make, you need to be prepared for 
fan noise. Thanks Rich - N5ZC Sent from my 
iPhone 
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 KIO3 Board

2018-06-02 Thread Tom Doligalski

I upgraded to the new board recently. The swap was easy, and works great. 

73, W4KX

Sent from my iPad

> On Jun 2, 2018, at 8:24 AM, Peter B  wrote:
> 
> Hi Jorge,
> I upgrade my K3 next week with the new board.
> I let you know when Iam finished.
> See what i will do with the old board.
> 
> 73s,
> Peter/PD1RP
> 
> Op do 24 mei 2018 om 23:51 schreef Jorge Mejia P 
> 
>> Anyone with a KIO3 board for a K3 , maybe left from having upgraded to the
>> newer boards.
>> I would be interested.
>> 
>> Thank you
>> Jorge HK4CZE
>> 
>> Sent from my iPad
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Re: [Elecraft] DVR equalization

2018-06-02 Thread Michael Blake

Except that when I go to the Data mode the bottom 200 Hz of the receive audio 
spectrum is heavily rolled off and can not be restored  with the Shift/Low cut 
adjustments.

Michael Blake
k9...@mac.com 






> On Jun 2, 2018, at 8:04 AM, Michael Blake  wrote:
> 
> It appears that when recording off the air that the K3s’s receive EQ is ahead 
> of the DVR’s input and when playing the recording back the transmit EQ 
> settings are also applied to the output of the DVR before being fed into the 
> SSB modulator.
> 
> Is it correct that the radio’s EQ settings affect both the receive and 
> transmit audio to and from the DVR?
> 
> If the most faithful reproduction of another stations received signal is the 
> goal should the radio be in the Data mode using the correct sideband and 
> bandwidth for both record and playback?
> 
> Michael Blake
> k9...@mac.com 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

2018-06-02 Thread WILLIE BABER

While running stations on 160m at a high rate, the finals of an Omni VI got so 
hot that output dropped to zero.  Once the finals cooled for maybe about five 
minutes, full output returned.  We then put a small fan on the heat sink fins 
and experienced no further problem.  No damage at all to the components.  
Unfortunately, the same Omni VI was hit by lightning some years later.

73, Will, wj9b

CWops #1085
CWA Advisor levels II and III
http://cwops.org/


On Sat, 6/2/18, Gmail - George  wrote:

 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?
 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
 Date: Saturday, June 2, 2018, 6:10 AM
 
 One other thought to keep in mind
 - solid state amps need a lower delta T 
 than tube amps. Tubes like to run hot - solid
 state devices not so much.
 
 I've seen a tube with the fins so hot that
 the solder was in globs, while 
 the
 transmitter was still operating. I doubt any solid state
 final would 
 have survived that heat.
 
 When we installed our solid
 state TV transmitter, it was a new learning 
 curve in cooling. Both transmitters were 30 kW
 class AB1. The tube 
 transmitter moved air
 faster through 3 tubes but had almost 3 times the 
 temperature rise than the specs for the solid
 state transmitter. Our HVAC 
 company and
 architect worked on several complex systems with air mixers
 
 until we just decided to use wall mounted
 air conditioners into the room 
 behind the
 transmitter racks and exhausted to the front of the
 transmitters.
 
 Our solid
 state transmitter did meet the OSHA limit for 8 hours
 exposure to 
 noise but just barely. It was
 very noisy compared to the tube unit.
 
 No tube transmitter I have ever used had a
 temperature shut down on any of 
 the tube
 stages.
 
 73 George AI4VZ
 
 
 
 -Original Message- 
 From: Don Wilhelm
 
 Only one bit of correction.  If the output
 power is 1500 watts and the
 efficiency is
 50%, that 1500 watts is only half the total power
 consumed, so there is 1500 watts of power that
 must be exhausted as heat.
 
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Re: [Elecraft] Amplifier Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread turnbull

Peter,   Ah yes on AM with a squirrel cage blower to cool the pair of tubes    
73 DOUG EI2CN   


Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
 Original message From: Peter Alterman  Date: 
02/06/2018  12:08  (GMT+01:00) To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] 
Amplifier Fan Noise 
I have found noise-canceling headphones to be an effective antidote to 
amplifier fan noise. But I must say that I like hearing that fan humming along 
and delivering the RF (though not hour after hour in a contest).  Probably the 
result of a misspent youth beside a homebrew dual 813 linear rack.
73, Peter W2CDO



Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 KIO3 Board

2018-06-02 Thread Peter B

Hi Jorge,
I upgrade my K3 next week with the new board.
I let you know when Iam finished.
See what i will do with the old board.

73s,
Peter/PD1RP

Op do 24 mei 2018 om 23:51 schreef Jorge Mejia P 

> Anyone with a KIO3 board for a K3 , maybe left from having upgraded to the
> newer boards.
> I would be interested.
>
> Thank you
> Jorge HK4CZE
>
> Sent from my iPad
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise

2018-06-02 Thread Jim via Elecraft

I don’t have a dog in this fight - someone who spends half the year (the half 
with all the good contests) in a Florida condo is not a candidate for buying 
amps. But might water cooling be a possibility? As in a heat sink that sits in 
water, with appropriate thermal shutoff if the water/amp get too warm? 

And when that happens, get fresh cool water.


73  -  Jim   K8MR


> On Jun 2, 2018, at 4:06 AM, John Perlick  wrote:
> 
> Bill Schmidt is right--you have to get rid of a bunch of heat--no matter what 
> device you are using to amplify (tubes, transistors, or magic). The 
> amplifying device must dissipate considerable heat because we are running 
> Class AB and because of all electronic devices are naturally lossy. 
> 
> Remember that this heat is generated not only in the RF transistors, but also 
> in the power supplies, bias circuits, lights, etc.  There are lots of heat 
> sources in every amplifier.
> 
> I can honestly say that my KPA1500 is considerably quieter than the Expert 
> 2KFA that I just sold and I would have to say it is quieter than my old Alpha 
> 87A.  I do operate it at full 1.5 KW output but I suspect my duty cycle on CW 
> has not caused it to so how that the fans max out.  Same for the 2KFA, but 
> even at low speeds, it was far noisier.  And, the 2KFA has REALLY loud T/R 
> relays!  
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

2018-06-02 Thread Gmail - George

One other thought to keep in mind - solid state amps need a lower delta T 
than tube amps. Tubes like to run hot - solid state devices not so much.

I've seen a tube with the fins so hot that the solder was in globs, while 
the transmitter was still operating. I doubt any solid state final would 
have survived that heat.

When we installed our solid state TV transmitter, it was a new learning 
curve in cooling. Both transmitters were 30 kW class AB1. The tube 
transmitter moved air faster through 3 tubes but had almost 3 times the 
temperature rise than the specs for the solid state transmitter. Our HVAC 
company and architect worked on several complex systems with air mixers 
until we just decided to use wall mounted air conditioners into the room 
behind the transmitter racks and exhausted to the front of the transmitters.

Our solid state transmitter did meet the OSHA limit for 8 hours exposure to 
noise but just barely. It was very noisy compared to the tube unit.

No tube transmitter I have ever used had a temperature shut down on any of 
the tube stages.

73 George AI4VZ



-Original Message- 
From: Don Wilhelm

Only one bit of correction.  If the output power is 1500 watts and the
efficiency is 50%, that 1500 watts is only half the total power
consumed, so there is 1500 watts of power that must be exhausted as heat.

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[Elecraft] DVR equalization

2018-06-02 Thread Michael Blake

It appears that when recording off the air that the K3s’s receive EQ is ahead 
of the DVR’s input and when playing the recording back the transmit EQ settings 
are also applied to the output of the DVR before being fed into the SSB 
modulator.

Is it correct that the radio’s EQ settings affect both the receive and transmit 
audio to and from the DVR?

If the most faithful reproduction of another stations received signal is the 
goal should the radio be in the Data mode using the correct sideband and 
bandwidth for both record and playback?

Michael Blake
k9...@mac.com 






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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

Wes, tnx for the chuckle.
No lawn mower, no umbrella, no place to store unwanted and unnecessary junk. 
You are livin' a dream.
And you can string your dipoles from the Saguaro. Hey, if the arms are the 
correct lengths you can string some verticals to cover multiple bands. And if 
the arms are the same length maybe you can make a phased array?
I don't miss being entertained by the rattlers and Javelinas on the golf course 
in Tucson.
73,
N2TK, Tony

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Wes Stewart
Sent: Friday, June 01, 2018 9:28 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ?

What's a basement?  On towertalk they talk about letting the lawn grow over 
ground radials.  I wonder what a lawn is.  They also say to install ground rods 
where the rain will hit them.  I wonder what rain is.

Wes  N7WS

On 6/1/2018 6:05 PM, hawley, charles j jr wrote:
> Some years ago we cooled a PDP11 by putting the fan remote and running a 
> dryer hose to the computer. How about putting the fan in the basement and the 
> rig on the desk where it’s handy?
>
> Chuck Jack
> KE9UW

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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted