[Elecraft] Elecraft CW Announcement

2019-08-31 Thread kevinr

Good Evening,

   The bear berries are getting ripe.  That means the grouse will soon 
be out.  The hot weather in the middle of the week excited the spiders 
into a frenzy of orb spinning.  Always around face level.  Once you 
clear a trail you may have twenty minutes before there is a new one.  
The last of the huckleberries are tart and refreshing.  I shake the bush 
to remove the overripe specimens and store the others in my mouth.


   Conditions are a bit more noisy due to the gust of solar wind 
earlier in the week.  But as long as it is not really noisy the extra 
ions help.  High temperatures also kept me from bucking that large log.  
This will help my sending.  Using a chainsaw detracts from my fine motor 
control.  It takes a couple days for the buzzing to stop.


Please join us on:

14050 kHz at 2200z Sunday (3 PM PDT Sunday)
  7047 kHz at z Monday (5 PM PDT Sunday)

   73,
  Kevin. KD5ONS


_

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] Passing Band Data from [KX3/KXPA100] to [KAT500/KPA500]

2019-08-31 Thread Don Wilhelm

Kevin,

While that may be an interesting exercise, it only takes one dit for the 
KPA/KAT500 to sense the frequency and react accordingly.
The only thing missing is the ability to track the VFO frequency during 
receive.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 8/31/2019 7:33 PM, Kevin McQuiggin wrote:

Hi Andy:

Thanks for the suggestion.  Using the computer would let me control the KAT500 
and KPA500 for sure, but what I am looking for is seamless band tracking and 
antenna output tracking between the rig (in this case KX3 and KXPA100) and the 
[KAT500/KPA500] block.

If I can interface the [KX3/KXPA100] combo to the antenna/tuner, then there 
would be full, seamless integration as there is with the K3.  That’s the goal.


__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 on digital modes

2019-08-31 Thread Michael Walker
Just a reminder to Canadians running the KPA1500 or any other full power
amp in the contest this weekend.

Max RF out is limited to 750 watts (not our usual 2250w PEP for SSB).  Only
CW and SSB get to go above 750 watts.

Mike va3mw
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 on digital modes

2019-08-31 Thread Jim Brown

On 8/31/2019 6:02 PM, Roger D Johnson wrote:

If you design a different class AB amplifier for half the output
of the previous amplifier don't you design it to produce the desired
output into a certain load impedance? Would it not be as efficient
as the first amplifier running at it's designed output?

So if you redesigned the first amplifier to see the proper load
impedance at half output would not the efficiency be regained?


In general, RF power gain stages (the tubes or transistors) are designed 
to work at some designed power level and impedance. Pi and Pi-L networks 
in tube amps provide both harmonic filtering and impedance matching. In 
most solid state amps, the output network provides only filtering, and 
are designed to work into 50 ohms.


K6XX, one of the Elecraft engineers who works on their power amps, gave 
a talk to our contest club stressing the importance of providing a 
matched load to the output devices, and to the output itself. He 
observed distortion increases significantly when that condition is 
satisfied, whether it is an antenna tuner for a solid state output stage 
or the Pi or Pi-L in a tube amp.




Isn't this exactly the way some of the first ham linears were designed
for an input of 2000 watts in SSB and 1000 watts in CW? There
was a switch on the front panel for SSB/CW mode which dropped
the plate voltage for CW mode so that the tubes saw the same
load impedance they did in SSB mode thereby keeping the efficiency
high and not requiring retuning between modes.


I don't know, but you could ask K4XU, who designed the Ten Tec power 
amps and later the RF circuitry in Alpha amps. He told me the 87A was 
his design (although he made it clear that he did NOT work on the 
control circuitry).


73, Jim K9YC

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] Missing AM mode

2019-08-31 Thread Bob McGraw K4TAX
Using the K3 Utility be sure the filters and modes are correctly 
selected.  For AM you will need either the 6 kHz or 13 kHz active and 
set one of those for AM mode for TX and RX.


73

Bob, K4TAX


On 8/31/2019 8:13 PM, Rick Robinson wrote:

Sounds like the AM mode has been disabled in the menu.

On Sat, Aug 31, 2019 at 8:44 PM rich hurd WC3T  wrote:


What model radio?

On Sat, Aug 31, 2019 at 20:11 Gerry Miller  wrote:


A few days ago I discovered that the AM function is missing from the
display.  AM is missing from all bands (including non amateur bands))

and I

can only listen to AM using by zero beating the signal on SSB.   The AM
letters will show when checking LCD TEST.  There is a small letter "T" in
the lower right corner at all times.   MCU 2.76  DSP 1.50.  Any idea as

to

the cause?  73, AA2ZJ

This Simple Method "Ends" Tinnitus - Try Tonight
fighttinnitusnow.com
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/5d6b0d06ed943d067649st02vuc
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to r...@wc3t.us


--
72,
Rich Hurd / WC3T / DMR: 3142737
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*
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to rickw...@gmail.com


__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] Missing AM mode

2019-08-31 Thread Rick Robinson
Sounds like the AM mode has been disabled in the menu.

On Sat, Aug 31, 2019 at 8:44 PM rich hurd WC3T  wrote:

> What model radio?
>
> On Sat, Aug 31, 2019 at 20:11 Gerry Miller  wrote:
>
> > A few days ago I discovered that the AM function is missing from the
> > display.  AM is missing from all bands (including non amateur bands))
> and I
> > can only listen to AM using by zero beating the signal on SSB.   The AM
> > letters will show when checking LCD TEST.  There is a small letter "T" in
> > the lower right corner at all times.   MCU 2.76  DSP 1.50.  Any idea as
> to
> > the cause?  73, AA2ZJ
> > 
> > This Simple Method "Ends" Tinnitus - Try Tonight
> > fighttinnitusnow.com
> > http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/5d6b0d06ed943d067649st02vuc
> > __
> > Elecraft mailing list
> > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> >
> > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> > Message delivered to r...@wc3t.us
> >
> --
> 72,
> Rich Hurd / WC3T / DMR: 3142737
> 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*
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to rickw...@gmail.com

-- 
Rick Genesis 1-29
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 on digital modes

2019-08-31 Thread Jim Brown

On 8/31/2019 3:04 PM, K9MA wrote:
This is nothing unique to the KPA1500: ALL class AB amplifiers behave 
this way. Even an "ideal" class AB amplifier has a maximum dissipation 
at around half of full output.


Yep. These concepts were taught in my EE courses in the early '60s.

73, Jim K9YC
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] Missing AM mode

2019-08-31 Thread rich hurd WC3T
What model radio?

On Sat, Aug 31, 2019 at 20:11 Gerry Miller  wrote:

> A few days ago I discovered that the AM function is missing from the
> display.  AM is missing from all bands (including non amateur bands)) and I
> can only listen to AM using by zero beating the signal on SSB.   The AM
> letters will show when checking LCD TEST.  There is a small letter "T" in
> the lower right corner at all times.   MCU 2.76  DSP 1.50.  Any idea as to
> the cause?  73, AA2ZJ
> 
> This Simple Method "Ends" Tinnitus - Try Tonight
> fighttinnitusnow.com
> http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/5d6b0d06ed943d067649st02vuc
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to r...@wc3t.us
>
-- 
72,
Rich Hurd / WC3T / DMR: 3142737
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*
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] New release of Win4K3Suite

2019-08-31 Thread Bill

Does your software operate under Linux?

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


[Elecraft] Missing AM mode

2019-08-31 Thread Gerry Miller
A few days ago I discovered that the AM function is missing from the display.  
AM is missing from all bands (including non amateur bands)) and I can only 
listen to AM using by zero beating the signal on SSB.   The AM letters will 
show when checking LCD TEST.  There is a small letter "T" in the lower right 
corner at all times.   MCU 2.76  DSP 1.50.  Any idea as to the cause?  73, AA2ZJ

This Simple Method "Ends" Tinnitus - Try Tonight
fighttinnitusnow.com
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/5d6b0d06ed943d067649st02vuc
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] Passing Band Data from [KX3/KXPA100] to [KAT500/KPA500]

2019-08-31 Thread Andy Durbin
"If I can interface the [KX3/KXPA100] combo to the antenna/tuner, then there 
would be full, seamless integration as there is with the K3.  That’s the goal."

 I believe I have achieved a level of integration of KAT500/KPA500 with my 
TS-590S that exceeds the integration available with the K3.  My controller is 
hosted by an Arduino Mega 2560.  No PC involved.

Whether you could do what I have done depends on what data is available from 
the KX3.  The basic functionality of my controller relies on reception of 
Kenwood format IF, FA, and FB.  The controller uses these parameters to compute 
appropriate KPA500 ^BN; commands and appropriate KAT500 F; commands. That is 
all that is needed to set the KAT500 and KPA500 to the correct frequency.
Enhanced control features require a more extensive data set.

73,
Andy, k3wyc

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] Passing Band Data from [KX3/KXPA100] to [KAT500/KPA500]

2019-08-31 Thread Kevin McQuiggin
Hi Andy:

Thanks for the suggestion.  Using the computer would let me control the KAT500 
and KPA500 for sure, but what I am looking for is seamless band tracking and 
antenna output tracking between the rig (in this case KX3 and KXPA100) and the 
[KAT500/KPA500] block.

If I can interface the [KX3/KXPA100] combo to the antenna/tuner, then there 
would be full, seamless integration as there is with the K3.  That’s the goal.

73,

Kevin VE7ZD




> On Aug 31, 2019, at 10:21 AM, Andy Durbin  wrote:
> 
> "where the second block [KAT500/KPA500] utilize essentially BCD for band data 
> and an “AUXBUS” signal that I have not yet found out much about."
> 
> You can fully control the KAT500 and KPA500 using their serial interfaces 
> without needing AUXBUS and without using the 4 discrete band interface.
> I'm doing exactly that with my Kenwood TS-590/KAT500/KPA500 controller.
> 
> Start by reading KAT500 Serial Command Reference.pdf and KPA500 Programmers 
> Ref.pdf.
> 
> I  have no knowledge of what data is available from the KX3/KXPA100 but if 
> you need help with KAT500/KPA500 control I'll be happy to share what I know.
> 
> 73,
> Andy, k3wyc
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> 
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to mcqui...@sfu.ca

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Solution to the efficiency problem?

2019-08-31 Thread K9MA
Totally aside from the power meter issue, what you are doing with the 
ATU is like loading a tube amplifier more lightly with the PI network. 
Lighter loading will improve efficiency, but may result in more 
distortion. One reason solid state amplifiers are generally less 
efficient than tube amplifiers is that transistors (including FET's) 
become extremely nonlinear when they are driven close to saturation. 
That is, when the voltage across the device is near zero at the bottom 
of the cycle. As a result, solid state amplifiers have to be loaded more 
"heavily", to keep the transistors far from saturation. This, of course, 
results in more dissipation.


I haven't tried it, but it's possible the KPA1500 could be loaded more 
lightly by manually adjusting the ATU values to improve efficiency on CW 
or RTTY, where linearity isn't a big issue. That might reduce PA 
temperature a little, though I'm not sure it would be worth the trouble. 
Given how sensitive the KPA1500 is to small changes in SWR, though, 
setting this up across a band would be a tedious process.


The rather large variations in PA current I see at 1500 W output at a 
moderate SWR, like 1.3:1, is probably due to the same effect. (A 1.3:1 
SWR could be a load impedance of anything from 39 to 65 Ohms.)


73,
Scott K9MA


On 8/31/2019 09:15, Roger D Johnson wrote:

I think I've discovered a fly in my ointment! The efficiency
that the amp displays is based on it's determination of the
output power. If the amp is looking into a higher Z load,
the indicated power is greater than normal resulting in a
higher efficiency reading.

Oh well, back to the drawing board!

73, Roger


On 8/31/2019 9:32 AM, Roger D Johnson wrote:

It occurred to me that the KPA1500's built in tuner might be of
some help.

Here's my reasoning. If we decrease the drive power to lessen
the output power but keep the same voltage, the amplifier wants
to see a higher load impedance.

Here are the results of some quick tests:

Base line is the amp set for 1000 watts output and eff is 44%

I the set the tuner so the amp "sees" a load of 60 Ohms (actually)
58 Ohms with the values of L and C available. Eff went up to 53%!

I then set the tuner to present a 70 Ohm load (actually 68 Ohms).
Eff went up to 59%!

This was into a dummy load. I realize that, if you're using the tuner
to match an antenna, this could be very complicated.

If Elecraft could figure some way to give us a choice of voltages
for differing power levels, this problem would go away.

73, Roger



--
Scott  K9MA

k...@sdellington.us

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 on digital modes

2019-08-31 Thread K9MA
This is nothing unique to the KPA1500: ALL class AB amplifiers behave 
this way. Even an "ideal" class AB amplifier has a maximum dissipation 
at around half of full output.


One thing running at lower output probably will buy you is lower IMD.

73,
Scott K9MA



On 8/29/2019 08:03, Roger D Johnson wrote:

It's interesting that the heat that has to be dissipated is pretty close
to 1000 watts in all these scenarios! Running the amp at less than full
power buys you nothing.

73, Roger


On 8/29/2019 8:38 AM, Larry (K8UT) wrote:

Pete,

I don't run my amp at full legal limit on digital modes, but 
typically set the input power for about 1000 watts output. One of the 
interesting characteristics of the amp is increased efficiency as 
power increases. At 600 watts efficiency is only 38%, whereas at 1000 
efficiency increases to 50% and at 1500 watts to 60%.


(see screenshots)

  -larry (K8UT)

-- Original Message --
From: "N4ZR" 
To: "Elecraft List" 
Sent: 2019-08-29 07:59:23
Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 on digital modes

Elecraft's published specs rate the KPA-1500 for 1500 watts output 
on all modes.  In prepping for this weekend's contest, I've been 
running it at closer to 700 watts, because I've found that even just 
running on CW, with its much lower duty cycle, my amp reaches 70C 
quickly.  I don't do that much digital contesting, though, so I'm 
wondering whether 1500 watts output is on digital modes is realistic 
or a recipe for trouble.


--
73, Pete N4ZR
Check out the Reverse Beacon Network
at , now
spotting RTTY activity worldwide.
For spots, please use your favorite
"retail" DX cluster.

__




--
Scott  K9MA

k...@sdellington.us

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] Copy cat - no way

2019-08-31 Thread JR



On 8/31/2019 1:21 PM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote:

New Icom IC-705, a QRP IC-7300.

With a very KX'y form factor.

_

Oh pshaw.  That is quite a stretch, and I do not see it, myself. Other 
than the basic shape (a rectangular box)  and handle brackets (which I 
think are optional on a KS3,)  it does not look like a KX3 (not to me, 
anyway.)  Besides, several other QRP rigs have that same basic shape.   
The screen bears no meaningful resemblance, and it consumes most of the 
front panel.  You are working to hard  for some reason.


Just MY take.   Your mileage may differ.    K8JHR









__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Solution to the efficiency problem?

2019-08-31 Thread Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft
Yes, the 1500 PA voltage is regulated.

73,
Eric
elecraft.com
_..._



> On Aug 31, 2019, at 7:33 AM, Andy Durbin  wrote:
> 
> "If we decrease the drive power to lessen the output power but keep the same 
> voltage, the amplifier wants to see a higher load impedance."
> 
> Is the PA Voltage of the KPA1500 regulated?  The KPA500 PA voltage can vary 
> about 20 V (80 V unloaded to 60 V at max PA current).
> 
> 73,
> Andy k3wyc
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> 
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to eric.swa...@elecraft.com 
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] FS: Lightly-used option-rich KX3 and accessories

2019-08-31 Thread Andrew Adler
The radio has been sold. Thanks to all who expressed interest.
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


[Elecraft] Passing Band Data from [KX3/KXPA100] to [KAT500/KPA500]

2019-08-31 Thread Andy Durbin
"where the second block [KAT500/KPA500] utilize essentially BCD for band data 
and an “AUXBUS” signal that I have not yet found out much about."

You can fully control the KAT500 and KPA500 using their serial interfaces 
without needing AUXBUS and without using the 4 discrete band interface.I'm 
doing exactly that with my Kenwood TS-590/KAT500/KPA500 controller.

Start by reading KAT500 Serial Command Reference.pdf and KPA500 Programmers 
Ref.pdf.

I  have no knowledge of what data is available from the KX3/KXPA100 but if you 
need help with KAT500/KPA500 control I'll be happy to share what I know.

73,
Andy, k3wyc
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


[Elecraft] Passing Band Data from [KX3/KXPA100] to [KAT500/KPA500]

2019-08-31 Thread Kevin McQuiggin
Hi All:

I have the setup as described in the subject line.  My KXPA100 is interfaced to 
my KX3 using the short Elecraft CAT5 cable.  I have recently added a 
KPA500/KAT500 combo.

I noted from the manuals that the [KX3/KXPA100] must really be treated as a 
generic external transceiver, and the two “blocks" [KX3/KXPA100] and 
[KAT500/KPA500] do not communicate digitally, but are interfaced using a simple 
PTT line.

This is fine, and what I expected when buying the combo.  

It would be nice, however, if it is possible, to allow the band and other data 
sent by the KX3 to the KXPA100 to be extended to the other block, the 
[KAT500/KPA500].

It is this aspect that I am currently investigating.  I have the connector 
pinout for both “blocks” and note that the [KX3/KXPA100] block utilizes serial 
transfer of data between them, where the second block [KAT500/KPA500] utilize 
essentially BCD for band data and an “AUXBUS” signal that I have not yet found 
out much about.

As an experienced hardware/firmware/software person I am thinking that it might 
be possible to extend communications between the two blocks (and all four 
devices) using an interface such as a microcontroller of some sort.  

My questions:
Are my assumptions regarding the lack of connectivity between the two blocks 
correct?  [I think so, based on interconnection details in the manuals]
Has somebody built such an interface already?
Is there information available on message passing and protocols between the K3 
and [KAT500/KPA500]?  The K3 is used as the reference, as the KAT500/KPA500 are 
designed to tightly integrate with it.
Same protocol question for the KX3/KXPA100.

Essentially, what I would be looking to do is to use a microcontroller to 
emulate a K3 in order to talk coherently to the [KAT500/KPA500] block.  Then 
the other side of this interface would talk [KX3/KXPA100].

My apologies if this a RTFM question or documented somewhere, but if so, I 
could not find it!

73,

Kevin VE7ZD


__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] K4 Features

2019-08-31 Thread bruce whitney via Elecraft
Please Wayne, Eric.. tell me the K4 will have the "wake on LAN" feature like 
the KPA1500??? Just gotta love that!
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


[Elecraft] New release of Win4K3Suite

2019-08-31 Thread Tom
Hello,
There is a new version of Win4K3Suite available, version 2.012. This release
includes the latest EiBi shortwave database, has improved transverter
support, and now allows use of sound card based Panadapters with the
Elecraft KX2 (requires modification of the radio).

Win4K3Suite is a full featured control program for the K3/S, KX3 and KX2.
It has a built in Panadapter that works with LPPAN and a sound card, as well
as the SDRPlay RSP's. It supports the KAT500, KPA500/1500 and the KXPA100 on
most of the above radios.  A unique feature is that is has 6 built in
Virtual Radios, each of which works just like an Elecraft radio.  This
allows sharing of a single COM port with up to 6 applications.  It also has
a built in HRDLogbook server and the EiBi Shortwave database which is now up
to date.
You see more information here:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=win4k3suite
and download a fully functional 30 day trial at va2fsq.com

73 Tom
va2fsq.com


---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


[Elecraft] KPA1500 Solution to the efficiency problem?

2019-08-31 Thread Andy Durbin
"If we decrease the drive power to lessen the output power but keep the same 
voltage, the amplifier wants to see a higher load impedance."

Is the PA Voltage of the KPA1500 regulated?  The KPA500 PA voltage can vary 
about 20 V (80 V unloaded to 60 V at max PA current).

73,
Andy k3wyc
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Solution to the efficiency problem?

2019-08-31 Thread N4ZR
There also seems to be some real-world question.  I've been operating 
the WW Digi contest this morning, and find that running at 500 watts out 
vs 1500 watts out,with similar sequences of transmissions there is about 
a 10-degree difference in temperature as reported by the amp.


73, Pete N4ZR
Check out the Reverse Beacon Network
at , now
spotting RTTY activity worldwide.
For spots, please use your favorite
"retail" DX cluster.

On 8/31/2019 10:15 AM, Roger D Johnson wrote:

I think I've discovered a fly in my ointment! The efficiency
that the amp displays is based on it's determination of the
output power. If the amp is looking into a higher Z load,
the indicated power is greater than normal resulting in a
higher efficiency reading.

Oh well, back to the drawing board!

73, Roger


On 8/31/2019 9:32 AM, Roger D Johnson wrote:

It occurred to me that the KPA1500's built in tuner might be of
some help.

Here's my reasoning. If we decrease the drive power to lessen
the output power but keep the same voltage, the amplifier wants
to see a higher load impedance.

Here are the results of some quick tests:

Base line is the amp set for 1000 watts output and eff is 44%

I the set the tuner so the amp "sees" a load of 60 Ohms (actually)
58 Ohms with the values of L and C available. Eff went up to 53%!

I then set the tuner to present a 70 Ohm load (actually 68 Ohms).
Eff went up to 59%!

This was into a dummy load. I realize that, if you're using the tuner
to match an antenna, this could be very complicated.

If Elecraft could figure some way to give us a choice of voltages
for differing power levels, this problem would go away.

73, Roger



__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to n...@roadrunner.com

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to n...@comcast.net

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] Get on air more often reason #6

2019-08-31 Thread John Oppenheimer
Antenna of choice is portable ground plane vertical using Buddipole
components. Storing tripod and mast on back porch. This morning found
all three Virsa-T 3/8x20 threads with a mud cap and larva inside.

Need to use antenna more often! Have fun out there in Elecraft land,
John KN5L
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Solution to the efficiency problem?

2019-08-31 Thread Roger D Johnson

I think I've discovered a fly in my ointment! The efficiency
that the amp displays is based on it's determination of the
output power. If the amp is looking into a higher Z load,
the indicated power is greater than normal resulting in a
higher efficiency reading.

Oh well, back to the drawing board!

73, Roger


On 8/31/2019 9:32 AM, Roger D Johnson wrote:

It occurred to me that the KPA1500's built in tuner might be of
some help.

Here's my reasoning. If we decrease the drive power to lessen
the output power but keep the same voltage, the amplifier wants
to see a higher load impedance.

Here are the results of some quick tests:

Base line is the amp set for 1000 watts output and eff is 44%

I the set the tuner so the amp "sees" a load of 60 Ohms (actually)
58 Ohms with the values of L and C available. Eff went up to 53%!

I then set the tuner to present a 70 Ohm load (actually 68 Ohms).
Eff went up to 59%!

This was into a dummy load. I realize that, if you're using the tuner
to match an antenna, this could be very complicated.

If Elecraft could figure some way to give us a choice of voltages
for differing power levels, this problem would go away.

73, Roger



__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to n...@roadrunner.com

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


[Elecraft] KPA1500 Solution to the efficiency problem?

2019-08-31 Thread Roger D Johnson

It occurred to me that the KPA1500's built in tuner might be of
some help.

Here's my reasoning. If we decrease the drive power to lessen
the output power but keep the same voltage, the amplifier wants
to see a higher load impedance.

Here are the results of some quick tests:

Base line is the amp set for 1000 watts output and eff is 44%

I the set the tuner so the amp "sees" a load of 60 Ohms (actually)
58 Ohms with the values of L and C available. Eff went up to 53%!

I then set the tuner to present a 70 Ohm load (actually 68 Ohms).
Eff went up to 59%!

This was into a dummy load. I realize that, if you're using the tuner
to match an antenna, this could be very complicated.

If Elecraft could figure some way to give us a choice of voltages
for differing power levels, this problem would go away.

73, Roger



__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 


[Elecraft] It's no KX4 but...

2019-08-31 Thread Martin Sole

Link

https://twitter.com/ohmiya599/status/1167354642478448640

For the link averse. This is a link to JJ3JHP's twitter feed ( 
@ohmiya599 )and shows a video at the Tokyo ham fair taking place.


You need to watch the video, which is really just the little box in the 
middle of the video.


New Icom IC-705, a QRP IC-7300.

With a very KX'y form factor. Well immitation is flattery indeed.

More here

https://dx-world.net/new-icom-ic705/

and here

https://forums.qrz.com/index.php?threads/new-icom-radio.670271/page-7

Enjoy

73
Martin, HS0ZED


__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com