[Elecraft] Headphones
I guess it is personal..I purchased a pair of the Arlan phones earlier this year and I would never use anything else. They were a total game changer for me in terms of comfort and clarity.I am almost exclusively a CW guy. This was the first field day in years I didn’t end up throwing a headset across the tent in frustration with fit and bad sound-particularly the Yamahas. Also the sound isolation for me is second to none. You do need to spend some time to get the fit set for your head,and there’s comprehensive instructions included. As a professional studio musician for 40 years I’ve suffered through a lot of bad phones…. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Recommendation for Microphone for K3s?
I guess it is personal..I purchased a pair of the Arlan phones earlier this year and I would never use anything else. They were a total game changer for me in terms of comfort and clarity.I am almost exclusively a CW guy. This was the first field day in years I didn’t end up throwing a headset across the tent in frustration with fit and bad sound-particularly the Yamahas. Also the sound isolation for me is second to none. As a professional studio musician for 40 years I’ve suffered through a lot of bad phones…. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Nov 2, 2022, at 11:47, Wes wrote: > > Don't forget the $100+ cable and $26 shipping. > > Wes N7WS > >> On 11/2/2022 11:26 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: >> On 2022-11-02 12:34 PM, Lou Laderman via Elecraft wrote: >> >> > Nobody has yet suggested RadioSport boomsets (Arlan Communications, >> >> At $299 each (on sale) they are like the Heil headsets, grossly over >> priced for what you get - 5 X the price for the CM500 or SB45. The >> RadioSport sets are much heavier/harder on the head and neck. >> >> 73, >> >>... Joe, W4TV > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft support and communication
Welcome to the list John and don’t be put off by a few complaints. I’ve been a customer since 1999 when I got my K2. I’ve never had any communication issues with Elecraft-every time I contact them about parts or technical issues they respond very promptly which is incredibly impressive given that it’s a very small company. I wonder if some of the problems may be due to folks just expecting Elecraft to contact them rather than calling or emailing to get updates. It’s a small enterprise and they’re scrambling to keep up. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Oct 8, 2022, at 16:53, John P wrote: > > As a new owner of Elecraft products, after owning rigs from the big three > companies, over 50+ years, I am very happy and impressed with Elecraft > equipment and customer support. Much, much better than the big three. > > I own a K4D, with 500 amp and tuner, which I had to wait for too. > > Understanding the supply chain issue problems, I didn’t whine. I am still > waiting for the hand mic too, but use a desk mic with no problems. > > Whenever I’ve had a question and emailed or phoned Elecraft they have been > extremely responsive and provided answers quickly. Eric ( who I met at an > ARRL event) and the staff have been fantastic with me. > > All I can say is that the recent email (list) traffic is so idiotic, I’m on > the verge of dropping off the listing. > > Find something better to do people. > > Let’s focus on radios, technology, and equipment helping issues. > > Best regards all , John KB1NU > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] KX2 Mic
This is a good excuse to learn CW. Or-the KX2 has a perfectly good built in mic. I’m also sure you could adapt a different mic if you’re really in need of one. As far as the complaint about Wayne posting his pedestrian mobile activity..do you see the CEO of ICOM Yaesu or Kenwood posting about actually using their products in a creative way?? This is what makes Elecraft such a good company to support. Are there supply issues? Sure,and why have them wasting time with constant updates that say nothing new? I’d rather have the precious labor time used to address the actual issues. And lastly..maybe people should just get outside and use the radios as they were intended. Better for your mental and physical health instead of sitting around finding things to nitpick about a small company trying to make innovative products. Tomorrow I’m taking the KX2 and AX2 to Mary’s peak in the central coast range of Oregon. Hiking and SOTA at 4500 feet. At age 71 I go slow but I’m going and boy a lot more fun than sitting around reading emails or watching the tube. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Oct 8, 2022, at 05:29, Dave Sublette wrote: > > As I recall, when I ordered my KX3 years ago I told them not to send a > mic. I wasn't going to need it. > > K4TO > >> On Sat, Oct 8, 2022 at 1:00 AM K9ZTV wrote: >> >> No shortage of keys, guys. >> >> Kent >> K9ZTV >> __ >> 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 k...@arrl.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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] AX1 dipole
Fred-can you share details on this antenna? Not familiar with it. Thanks. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 29, 2022, at 12:08, Fred Jensen wrote: > > I've long wondered why hams haven't done more with Franklin verticals? KFBK > [1530 kHz in Sacramento] uses one located in the southern end of the > Sacramento Valley, and it's known as a Flame Thrower. I think KNBC [680 > kHz?] in SF had one back in the 50's sometime too. They're big at MF, but > much more tractable at HF, and they are amenable to loading techniques. I > built one [fairly heavily loaded] out of Buddipole parts I had, and its > performance, particularly when I was still activating summits, was > surprising. Like a small loop, the Franklin pretty much ignores ground ... > although KFBK's probably likes being located in rice fields filled with > water. > > 73, > > Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW > Sparks NV DM09dn > Washoe County > > Jim Brown wrote on 9/29/2022 11:28 AM: >> David, >> >> I've published a LOT of work on concepts like this. >> >> This ran in National Contest Journal about six years ago. It's based on >> extensive modeling, and was peer reviewed. >> >> http://k9yc.com/AntennaPlanning.pdf >> >> This was added to the ARRL Handbook or Antenna Book several years ago. >> >> http://k9yc.com/VerticalDipole.pdf >> >> This is an application of the above technique. >> >> http://k9yc.com/80M-FDVertical.pdf >> >> N6BT (original Force 12) has done a lot designs for monoband and multiband >> verticals that are loaded dipoles. The multiband Cushcraft R-series and >> Hi-Gain AV-series multiband verticals (companies bought out by MFJ many >> years ago) are loaded dipoles. >> >> 73, Jim K9YC >> >>> On 9/29/2022 11:09 AM, David Gilbert wrote: >>> >>> You're talking about a horizontal pair of AX1's ... I asked about them >>> oriented vertically. That wouldn't require them to be as high above ground >>> as you mention and would still allow them to be carried pedestrian mobile. >> > > > > -- > This email has been checked for viruses by AVG antivirus software. > www.avg.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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] AX1 today
Thanks Wayne for the encouragement. Since I’ve become involved in our local club-Portland Amateur Radio Club, or PARC , we’ve encouraged members to get out of the home shack and try outdoor operating. As is true with many urban dwellers we all fight noise and space issues,and no better way to hear what the bands are doing plus get some exercise. SOTA has become very popular here in Oregon-lots of summits of varying degrees of accessibility so almost everyone can participate. Also been a real boost to QrP and CW. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 24, 2022, at 22:54, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > And thank you for getting outdoors to operate, Dan. That's the real reason > for the AX line :) > > 73, > Wayne > N6KR > > >> On Sep 24, 2022, at 10:09 PM, Dan Presley wrote: >> >> All this discussion about the antenna caused me to carve out a little time >> this afternoon to go to a suburban summit. Perfect setting for the AX1 as >> there’s no good trees and since it’s also somewhat of a park -wires around >> and in the air are frowned on. Also with limited time a quick setup and tear >> down is important. My usual setup is a small lightweight tripod (light >> stand) that goes to 6 feet and elevated radials (3 13’). I have alligator >> clips on the end of the radials for easy attachment to anything like some >> grass or a shrub. ATU in the KX2 hardly ‘clicked’ for a match. In 45 minutes >> I worked 22 stations (12 states),Japan and 4 ‘S2S’-summit to summit >> contacts on 20 and 15 M CW 5 watts. Best report was 599 from OK..almost >> pulled off an S2S with JH3PLL. Kept asking ‘N7??’ but we couldn’t quite pull >> it off. And everything except the tripod packs into a small LowePro bag. >> Summit W7O/WV-099 if you follow that. Thanks for a great product Wayne. >> >> >> Dan Presley 503-701-3871 >> danpresley@me. com >> n7...@arrl.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 n...@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] Portable antenna
No worries-it’ll make a nice winter project. Right now I’m taking full advantage of sunshine before the rainy season starts. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 24, 2022, at 20:47, David Gilbert wrote: > > > I don't really have a good setup for making videos, but when I get the chance > I'll make one showing how I built it and how to set it up. Might be a while, > though. > > 73, > Dave AB7E > > >> On 9/24/2022 7:29 PM, Dan Presley wrote: >> Thanks Dave for the reply. That sounds like a great antenna and I’d >> definitely like to see a picture and maybe a bit more description if you’d >> care to. I enjoy playing with portable antennas and might try to build >> something like that over the winter. One that I put together last year was a >> two element vertical Yagi based on the article by a Japanese ham (forgot the >> call) in QRP quarterly a few years back. It uses a driven element and a >> quarter wave reflector,and the reflector uses a quarter wave matching >> section connected as a radial. Think of basically a ‘U’ shaped setup. The >> original was suspended from tree branches but I set it up for ground mount >> using two 20 foot small fiberglass fishing poles. It actually gave some >> reasonable gain on 20 and you could steer it a bit by moving the reflector. >> For field day our club is QRP CW and two of us built a 2 element wire Yagi >> for 40 from an article in QST a few years back. We feed it with open wire >> line and because our site has very tall trees we have it up about 60 >> feet. This year we set it up as a sloper. Killer antenna on 40 and actually >> loads and works quite nicely on 20 and 15. We also put up a horizontal loop >> for 80 at the same height. We’ve either won or placed 2nd in our division >> for a few years. Nothing beats big wire,but when I’m hiking I gotta rethink >> everything and go small-thus the AX1/2 and simple wires. >> >> Dan Presley 503-701-3871 >> danpresley@me. com >> n7...@arrl.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] AX1 today
All this discussion about the antenna caused me to carve out a little time this afternoon to go to a suburban summit. Perfect setting for the AX1 as there’s no good trees and since it’s also somewhat of a park -wires around and in the air are frowned on. Also with limited time a quick setup and tear down is important. My usual setup is a small lightweight tripod (light stand) that goes to 6 feet and elevated radials (3 13’). I have alligator clips on the end of the radials for easy attachment to anything like some grass or a shrub. ATU in the KX2 hardly ‘clicked’ for a match. In 45 minutes I worked 22 stations (12 states),Japan and 4 ‘S2S’-summit to summit contacts on 20 and 15 M CW 5 watts. Best report was 599 from OK..almost pulled off an S2S with JH3PLL. Kept asking ‘N7??’ but we couldn’t quite pull it off. And everything except the tripod packs into a small LowePro bag. Summit W7O/WV-099 if you follow that. Thanks for a great product Wayne. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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] Portable antenna
Thanks Dave for the reply. That sounds like a great antenna and I’d definitely like to see a picture and maybe a bit more description if you’d care to. I enjoy playing with portable antennas and might try to build something like that over the winter. One that I put together last year was a two element vertical Yagi based on the article by a Japanese ham (forgot the call) in QRP quarterly a few years back. It uses a driven element and a quarter wave reflector,and the reflector uses a quarter wave matching section connected as a radial. Think of basically a ‘U’ shaped setup. The original was suspended from tree branches but I set it up for ground mount using two 20 foot small fiberglass fishing poles. It actually gave some reasonable gain on 20 and you could steer it a bit by moving the reflector. For field day our club is QRP CW and two of us built a 2 element wire Yagi for 40 from an article in QST a few years back. We feed it with open wire line and because our site has very tall trees we have it up about 60 feet. This year we set it up as a sloper. Killer antenna on 40 and actually loads and works quite nicely on 20 and 15. We also put up a horizontal loop for 80 at the same height. We’ve either won or placed 2nd in our division for a few years. Nothing beats big wire,but when I’m hiking I gotta rethink everything and go small-thus the AX1/2 and simple wires. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft AX-1 Whip Antenna
The other nice feature of the KX2 is the mini banana jack on the side of the radio for attaching the counterpoise . It’s perfect for pedestrian mobile and should you encounter some sort of snag it’ll pop out before the wire breaks.Wayne can better comment than me,but I believe the resonance of the AX1 (or AX2 I presume) it’s not right within the 20M band, but close. The auto tuner easily takes care of matching and as Wayne mentioned earlier compensates for all of the other variables. Just a note that the AX2 is a single band coil and can be modified for different bands. Plus it’s even a lot lower profile than the AX1. If you want to see some fun videos of using the AX1 directly attached to the KX2 search on YouTube for HB9BZG-SOTA from the Swiss Alps! Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 24, 2022, at 09:40, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > The wire drags behind you. This is why we sometimes call it a "dragged > counterpoise." > > The wire supplied with the AX1, AX2, and AXE1 is quite slippery and unlikely > to snag on anything. I've dragged it between cacti in the deserts of New > Mexico; across serpentine outcrops along the Pacific coast; and though the > urban jungles of Belmont, California, bristling with spiky xeriscape. > > W > > > >> On Sep 24, 2022, at 7:41 AM, wrote: >> >> I'm curious about your pedestrian mobile statement. What do you do with the >> 13 foot counterpoise, does it drag behind you when walking? I doubt that you >> can make a QSO without it. Also with the 13 foot counterpoise, what 20m >> frequency is the AX1 resonant on? >> >> John KK9A >> >> >> Dan Presley n7cqr wrote: >> >> Second-I want to hear from Dave AB7E in particular what antenna(s) you use >> when you're operating in the field,and specifically when you can't set up a >> wire; maybe no trees or a bare summit, or as Thomas K4SWL talks about-when >> you really don't or can't throw up a wire (check out his blog on recent >> operations in Canada). Or pedestrian mobile. So far I've seen nothing that >> is as compact,lightweight and easily packable as the AX1 or 2, and that's >> important to me when I'm hiking. >> >> Dan Presley 503-701-3871 >> danpresley at me. com >> N7CQR at arrl.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 n...@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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft AX-1 Whip Antenna
I wanted to revisit this discussion to add a perspective that I think needs to be considered. First,as far as modeling short verticals I believe it’s possible to use something like the ‘poor man’s’ AX1 that Doug Hendricks developed at Pacificon in 2019. A group of us from Oregon went and participated in the build,and subsequently Doug posted the plans and parts list in the QRP quarterly. So if you don’t want to obtain or borrow an AX1 for testing here’s an inexpensive alternative. Build it and give us your results. Second-I want to hear from Dave AB7E in particular what antenna(s) you use when you’re operating in the field,and specifically when you can’t set up a wire; maybe no trees or a bare summit, or as Thomas K4SWL talks about-when you really don’t or can’t throw up a wire (check out his blog on recent operations in Canada). Or pedestrian mobile. So far I’ve seen nothing that is as compact,lightweight and easily packable as the AX1 or 2, and that’s important to me when I’m hiking. Each part is no more than 6” in length or less. Oh-and by the way I just completed another’S2S’ (summit to summit) contact on 30M using the 40/30 add on coil with the AX1 with KR7RK from Oregon to AZ both at 5W. Personally I always prefer a wire antenna if possible-either an end fed or as is spelled out in the manuals for the KX3 and KX2, a length of wire about 25-28 feet with a counterpoise. But sometimes it’s not an option. Share with us..I’m always wanting to hear what others do or build. How do you solve this?? Thanks. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 22, 2022, at 10:09, Wayne Burdick wrote: > >> On Sep 22, 2022, at 9:47 AM, Jim Clymer wrote: >> >> >> >> On Thu, Sep 22, 2022, 11:28 AM Wayne Burdick wrote: >> Yes indeed. >> >> This is why you need an ATU when using such antennas. The ATU can correct >> for terrain, counterpoise length and deployment, body capacitance, >> conductors associated with other connected devices, etc. >> >> Wayne >> >> So that would lead me to believe that matching requirements for bicycle >> mobile with a trailing counterpoise would be a moving target. > > I haven't tried that myself but yeah, probably. > > However, radios like the KX2 and KX3 are tolerant of dynamic SWR variations. > For example if you hit the ATU button at some point and the SWR goes to 1:1, > then walk (or bike) over varied terrain that causes the SWR To vary from 1:1 > to 2:1, the radio won't complain. Only if the SWR gets really high will power > rollback occur. > > Without the ATU, and using an electrically short/narrowband antenna, you > might see SWR vary from 1:1 to 10:1. > > Wayne > N6KR > > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft AX-1 Whip Antenna
I believe what Wayne meant to say was’now replace the AX1 with a resistor’ not a wire. Nonetheless the AX1 and 2 still serve a definite purpose in portable operating that a resistor or light bulb won’t 浪. And I fail to see what the problem is with using a counterpoise,even if it’s doing some of the radiating. Most antenna systems that are unbalanced (verticals,end feds,etc) require a counterpoise. Are you claiming that a resistor with a counterpoise is as effective as shortened vertical?? I believe Rudy Severn’s work has already demonstrated the effectiveness of short verticals with various counterpoises. Yesterday I did a SOTA activation where I worked Japan,France and Spain with 5W and the AX1. Obviously the altitude advantage is great and I used 3 13’ radials. I also try to position myself near a sloping edge to maximize my radiation effectiveness (as Tom Schiller N6BT advocates). I doubt a 50 ohm resistor would achieve this… and just in case someone says ‘it’s only because the other stations have big antennas etc ‘ some of the contacts were what we call ‘S2S’ or summit to summit with other activators using similar equipment and power. Perhaps hiking to a bare summit and figuring out what gear you’d haul on your back will give you a certain perspective and appreciation. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 21, 2022, at 20:32, David Gilbert wrote: > > Why would I replace the wire with a resistor? I was talking about replacing > the AX1 with a resistor and keeping the wire. > > I have no doubt that an AX1 without a wire hears better than a resistor > without a wire, but that's mostly because the resistor provides a better > match and can't rely on body capacitance or the coax shield. > > If the AX1 was less expensive I'd buy one and do the tests. I may be totally > wrong, but I still say that ANY tuned short whip with a counterpoise is doing > most of the radiating from the counterpoise. > > 73, > Dave AB7E > > > > On 9/21/2022 7:59 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: >> Dave, >> >> I've done many variations on whip antenna tests. >> >> A resonant 4' whip with or without a counterpoise is on a different planet >> from a resistor. If an AX1 were listening in on this conversation, it would >> challenge you to a duel, with live ammo :) >> >> In fact the counterpoise is absolutely required for transmit, but you can >> get away without it on receive, where body capacitance to ground alone will >> suffice, even on the HF bands. >> >> Try this test: Go outdoors and connect an AX1 (or equivalent) to the antenna >> jack of any 20 meter receiver. With r without the counterpoise You'll get of >> noise, lots of signals. >> >> Now replace the wire with a resistor. >> >> Nothing. >> >> QED >> >> Wayne >> N6KR >> >> >> >> >> >>> On Sep 21, 2022, at 7:29 PM, David Gilbert wrote: >>> Well, the reason I mentioned the 50 ohm resistor is that a year or so ago >>> somebody on this reflector mentioned that he did a direct comparison >>> between an AX1 with the recommended 13 foot wire counterpoise and with no >>> counterpoise at all. I don't remember for certain but I think he said he >>> used the RBN. I do remember that he said the difference in signal >>> strength was about 30 db. For grins I used EZNEC to model a single 50 hm >>> resistor 15 feet off the ground with and without a 13 foot wire hanging >>> from one end of it. I got 30 db difference in calculated signal strength. >>> I am by no means claiming that is a definitive or even relevant test ... I >>> just think it would be interesting to actually do an empirical comparison. >>> It is my opinion, however, that most of the radiating on an AX1 (or any >>> other short loaded whip) is being done by the counterpoise wire and/or the >>> shield of the coax. The coil and whip are matching aids. If so, it's >>> possible that a resistor would accomplish the same thing. ;) >>> As I said, I'd be willing to do the comparison if anyone is willing to lend >>> me an AX1. I'd be happy to be proven wrong. >>> 73, >>> Dave AB7E >>> On 9/21/2022 6:46 PM, j...@kk9a.com wrote: >>>> Thomas Schiller, N6BT once wrote an article titled "Everything Works". In >>>> the article he discussed how he worked all continents on CW (a mode that >>>> you >>>> can actually hear) using a light bulb antenna during the ARRL DX contest. >>>> The AX1 appears to be a 45" whip with a base inductor made of 20AWG wire.
Re: [Elecraft] OT: 15 meters last night
I didn’t drop down to 15,but there was lot of EU stations I worked during the CWT event on 20 last night-hadn’t heard that many that strong for a long time. K4D. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On May 26, 2022, at 16:49, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > Amazing is the only word for it. I haven't heard an opening to EU like that > on 15 m at close to midnight PST for...about 11 years. > > I just happened to be testing new firmware on the K4. Thought I'd wrap it up > and get to bed. (Not. Much DX worked on CW.) > > Anyone else notice? > > Wayne > N6KR > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] K4D scanning
Thanks for the prompt reply Wayne. No big deal-I just like to turn on scan while I’m working on projects in the shack. I’ll continue to use my venerable K2 #1010 for that. I’m looking forward to the next software update. I know there’s a lot going on at the factory! Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Apr 11, 2022, at 07:29, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > Hi Dan, > > This feature hasn't been implemented yet. > > 73, > Wayne > N6KR > > >> On Apr 10, 2022, at 5:20 PM, Dan Presley wrote: >> >> Just got my K4D and what a machine! I’m having trouble, or missing a step to >> set up scanning. I’ve entered frequencies in VFO A and B, and put that ito >> memory 1. Then when I press Scan it says ‘implementation in progress’ . Is >> this feature not enabled as yet, or am I missing something? Thanks. >> Dan Presley N7CQR >> n7...@arrl.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 n...@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
[Elecraft] K4D scanning
Just got my K4D and what a machine! I’m having trouble, or missing a step to set up scanning. I’ve entered frequencies in VFO A and B, and put that ito memory 1. Then when I press Scan it says ‘implementation in progress’ . Is this feature not enabled as yet, or am I missing something? Thanks. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] K4 and Delivery Delays
Regardless of the naysayers-I just took delivery of my K4D,which indeed took a while,but it’s well worth the wait. Of course I drank the Elecraft koolaid before there was a company. Built the NC 40;Sierra and SST-all designed by Wayne and Eric. Then the K2,KX1,2 and 3. I still use all of those rigs except the Sierra which I sold and now regret. Any company that still supports their first product (K2-over 20 years) and is run by avid hams that regularly use the radios deserves my business. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Mar 30, 2022, at 09:50, Clay Autery wrote: > > Doug, > > You last response makes you come off like a gigantic "procreation tool". > I would like to think that this is not the case. Perhaps you would consider > "considering" your responses more completely from here forward. > > And for ALL... It is, and has always been, customary to include your > call-sign in your signature to your responses. > > Hope your day improves, Doug. > > 73, > > Clay E. Autery, Jr. > KY5G > >> On 3/30/2022 10:22 AM, Doug Renwick wrote: >> So you must be part of the topic mafia - those who are too lazy to use the >> delete key for topics they have no interest in or more likely topics which >> hurt their feelings. >> >> Doug >> >> Free Climbing - The ultimate test of strength and technique. >> -Original Message- >> >> Please do not start the Elecraft bashing again please, if you do not like >> the way Elecraft works with all of us. >> I wish you the best with your Flex 6600M and amplifier and that you have >> all the fun with it as we are having with ours. >> >> 73's >> Paul Van Dyke >> K4D #76 >> >> > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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] Spectrogram for MAC?
What’s the current program folks are using for K2 alignment that works on a Mac? After 22 years my serial #1010 needs a touchup! Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Problem Tuning K3
Perhaps you could clarify what you meant by a modern OCF. What’s changed from the traditional model? Thanks. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Nov 2, 2021, at 12:20, CUTTER DAVID via Elecraft > wrote: > > Hi Jim > > Not many folks have the space or ability to put up a full set of resonant > dipoles. The MODERN off centre fed dipole is as good as you'll get any > multiband antenna and for the most part will not need a separate antenna > match box. > > I suggest you measure the common mode current on a decent ocf dipole and see > for yourself. Great progress has been made in the last few years and, yes I > use your cookbook. > > David G3UNA > > >> On 02 November 2021 at 19:09 Jim Brown wrote: >> >> >>> On 11/2/2021 11:50 AM, CUTTER DAVID wrote: >>> Don't stay stuck in the past: not all ocf dipoles are created equal. >>> With properly designed transformers and chokes, the common mode current can >>> be tamed to perfectly decent levels. >> >> I suspect you don't understand the physics of the problem. OCF antennas >> are a yesterday's approach to multiband antennas. They are a recipe for >> RX noise and RF in the shack. The concept was developed decades ago, >> when there was far less noise than there is today. It's possible to fool >> yourself that it's working fine, but you can't hear very well, so you >> miss stations calling you. >> >> I run legal limit on FT8 for weak signal work on 6M and difficult paths >> on 160M (EU from California) into resonant antennas that are choked and >> fed with RG8 or RG11, and I regularly get signal reports 15-20 dB worse >> than I give. Since signal reports on FT8 are signal to noise, that means >> the other station can't hear. >> >> 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] NR stops after ATU TUNE on KX3
I’ve noticed a similar issue when engaging and disengaging the APF filter. I have to go back and turn off and on the NR before it kicks in again. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Oct 16, 2021, at 14:53, Julia Tuttle wrote: > > Hi, > > I have NR turned on on my KX3. When I do an ATU TUNE, "NR" stays on the > display, but the noise reduction isn't actually happening. If I turn NR off > and on again, it works again. > > Known bug? > > 73, > > Julie > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Power supply for KX3
The Radio Shack supplies are abysmally noisy. Don’t go there…the Pro Audio is far superior. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Oct 8, 2021, at 17:49, Jim Brown wrote: > On 10/8/2021 4:14 PM, qr...@roadrunner.com wrote: >> The ubiquitous Radio Shack 22-124A (and its variants) power supply is >> a perfect match for the KX-3. Manufactured by the millions and cheaper >> than dirt on that watery place or under hamfest tables it meets the >> current-handling needs of the KX-3. > > I don't see comments on the elephant in the room -- most commercial power > supplies dump out lots of RF noise, both from their switch-mode operation and > their regulation circuitry. I would be VERY suspicious of any such unit not > specifically marketed to hams for use on the HF bands. > > The ProAudioEng PSU is quiet for the low current needed for receive, but is > noisy at the higher current of transmit. No problem if you're using only one > radio at a time, but bad news if you're listening on a second radio tuned to > another band while transmitting. It may be possible to quiet that noise with > ferrite chokes. I have one of these PSUs, but haven't tried to choke it. > > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] A suggested VFO parking place
The longstanding QRP frequency for 40 has been 7040-European 7030. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 4, 2021, at 01:59, Nate Bargmann wrote: > > * On 2021 03 Sep 21:47 -0500, Dave wrote: >> Any frequency like that for 40? > > I used to park somewhere between 7033 and 7035 overnight and would > always hear something going on it seemed. Perhaps I need to revisit > that practice. > > 73, Nate, N0NB > > -- > "The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all > possible worlds. The pessimist fears this is true." > Web: https://www.n0nb.us > Projects: https://github.com/N0NB > GPG fingerprint: 82D6 4F6B 0E67 CD41 F689 BBA6 FB2C 5130 D55A 8819 > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Off-topic: Musical composition
Don’t get started on drummer jokes…or trombone or accordion or banjo . Seriously off topic! I will share my favorite at the risk of starting a thread…what’s the difference between an oboe and a Volkswagen? If you have to,really really have to…you can tune a Volkswagen 浪 Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Jul 24, 2021, at 14:04, Terry Schieler wrote: > > Dan's signature below is that of a musician. Always your phone number after > your name. Someone may need a bassist. > Back in my "professional" music days, someone would ask one of my band > members... "how many in your band?". Their response"four musicians and a > drummer". Need I add which one was ME? > > Terry > > -Original Message- > From: Dan Presley [mailto:n7...@arrl.net] > Sent: Saturday, July 24, 2021 1:44 PM > To: Wayne Burdick > Cc: K2 > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Off-topic: Musical composition > > As a ‘semi retired’ professional jazz musician (bassist-upright) I > particularly appreciated the analogy. During this last field day I was > running my KX3 and explaining to my logging assistants about pitch > matching.The spot control does a good job,but sometimes I needed to tweak it > to get in the other guys’ passband. I can’t wait to use this on my > K4,whenever that might arrive! Maybe we should start an Elecraft band… last > year I was supposed to go to Spain and do some gigs and had planned to take > the KX2…maybe next summer. > > > Dan Presley 503-701-3871 > danpresley@me. com > n7...@arrl.net > > >> On Jul 24, 2021, at 10:56, Wayne Burdick wrote: >> >> When the latest Elecraft newsletter came out, a few people contacted me to >> ask if I'm a musician. (You'll have to read the newsletter to understand the >> question.) >> >> Short answer: Yes. If you'd like the long answer (and maybe a few sample >> compositions), feel free to contact me directly. >> >> 73, >> Wayne >> N6KR >> >> >> __ >> 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Off-topic: Musical composition
As a ‘semi retired’ professional jazz musician (bassist-upright) I particularly appreciated the analogy. During this last field day I was running my KX3 and explaining to my logging assistants about pitch matching.The spot control does a good job,but sometimes I needed to tweak it to get in the other guys’ passband. I can’t wait to use this on my K4,whenever that might arrive! Maybe we should start an Elecraft band… last year I was supposed to go to Spain and do some gigs and had planned to take the KX2…maybe next summer. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Jul 24, 2021, at 10:56, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > When the latest Elecraft newsletter came out, a few people contacted me to > ask if I'm a musician. (You'll have to read the newsletter to understand the > question.) > > Short answer: Yes. If you'd like the long answer (and maybe a few sample > compositions), feel free to contact me directly. > > 73, > Wayne > N6KR > > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] A or B?
I’d like to bend the conversation a bit to general CW sending regardless of which mode or key you use. I don’t think we’ll ever settle the arguments about A vs B,except B is more ubiquitous and most students start on B. But what really matters is the quality of the code you send. And it doesn’t have to be machine perfect. Some individuality is a nice touch as long as it’s still good copy. I had one student who simply couldn’t make a go of any dual paddles,but he had excellent results with a single lever,and his fist is very nice. On further questioning,he had a strong musical background,which leads me to the point I want to make, which a previous poster mentioned. My career was a bit unusual in that I was a professional jazz musician (bassist) and had the rare fortune to travel the world as a performer,and recording artist,and in later years as an instructor at college and professional levels. I still play occasionally-not much in the past year,but that’s changing finally! As an instructor the one constant with every student was the misperception of their rhythmic abilities,regardless of how good their’chops’ (musical facility) were . Almost universally they’d say’I have a good sense of time/rhythm’ and if was usually their weakest area. For the most part I think that’s true with a lot of the newer cw ops as well. And there’s also a myth that nothing can be done about your rhythmic abilities-‘you’re born with it,or not’ is the common wisdom. True you may never get good enough to hang with Steve Gad,or the late Ginger Baker or Gene Krupa, but you can certainly work on improving your rhythmic cw skills. A couple of tips-think of little phrases like CQ as a musical phrase. What’s that? Well-any little bit of a melody that you might have in your head,or a bird song. Even ‘happy birthday to you ’ is a musical phrase. If you have a metronome set it to a really slow tempo like 40-50 and send simple characters between each click. Then gradually increase your tempo. Then try two letter groups like CQ,73,etc. Eventually larger groups and words,and then phrases like’name hr Dan’ This works for any mode or key-paddle,straight,single lever, bug. This will even out your fist and make for much more enjoyable sending. And-your copying will improve too. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Jul 6, 2021, at 23:44, Guido Tedeschi wrote: > > 99% of non Elecraft radio have Iambic B keyer only, so I suggest to learn > Iambic B. > I learned Iambic A in the eighties and now I have to use a single lever key > with radios that have Iambic B only, otherwise I send C instead of K... > 73 de Guido, ik2bcp / k2bcp > > >> Il giorno mer 7 lug 2021 alle ore 06:18 Mike Morrow ha >> scritto: >> >> Several have stated they use "squeeze keying" and therefore use mode B. >> >> >> >> >> That is a total non sequitur. ALL iambic keying requires simultaneous >> closure of both paddles...i.e. squeeze keying. Mode A is just as much a >> squeeze keying process that closes both paddles to generate an iambic >> stream as is mode B. The only difference is TIMING OF PADDLE RELEASE. >> Mode B requires paddle release critically earlier to generate a particular >> iambic stream because it automatically generates the final element in the >> stream depending on a dot or dash being sent when paddles are released. >> Mode A does not automatically generate the final element in any iambic >> stream. It simply requires holding both paddles closed until the desired >> final element has been sent. >> >> >> >> >> There is absolutely no speed advantage of one mode over another, although >> many mode B users seem to believe that there is. Some mode B users even >> believe that they can generate some characters with fewer paddle >> manipulations than a mode A user. They can not. Some mode B users believe >> only mode B is a squeeze keying process. Mode A is also. Regardless of >> the basis upon which a person selects and learns mode A or mode B, there is >> no factual basis to claim one mode superior for ANY purpose over the other. >> >> >> >> >> Mike / KK5F >> >> >> >> >> -Original Message- >> From: Louandzip >> Sent: Jul 6, 2021 11:05 AM >> Cc: >> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] A or B? >> >> I'm a squeezer and use B. It's physically the easiest, particularly at >> higher speeds, and I believe B is really most common. Of course you don't >> have to squeeze using B. On Tue, Jul 6, 2021 at 9:11 AM, Tom Doligalski >> via Elecraft wrote: I’ve always preferred B, and I do use squeeze keying. >> If I were starting off I would probably recommend B
Re: [Elecraft] A or B?
Although a bit long check out Chuck Adams video on Iambic B and the various permutations. This may help clear up some questions. https://youtu.be/mFtPPyjrsVU Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Jul 6, 2021, at 09:07, Louandzip via Elecraft > wrote: > > I'm a squeezer and use B. It's physically the easiest, particularly at > higher speeds, and I believe B is really most common. Of course you don't > have to squeeze using B. > > > On Tue, Jul 6, 2021 at 9:11 AM, Tom Doligalski via > Elecraft wrote: I’ve always preferred B, and I do > use squeeze keying. > > If I were starting off I would probably recommend B. I doubt there is much > difference in the learning curve between either! > > Tom W4KX > >> On Jul 6, 2021, at 10:58 AM, Wayne Burdick wrote: >> >> I’ve always used mode A. Mode B may be preferable for those doing >> squeeze-keying, especially at higher speeds. >> >> Wayne >> N6KR >> >> >> elecraft.com >> >>>> On Jul 6, 2021, at 7:36 AM, Gary Peterson wrote: >>> >>> An old friend, who has been inactive for several years, recently purchased >>> a used K3. This is the first transceiver that he’s owned that includes a >>> built in keyer. He has always operated CW with a straight key. He has >>> acquired Vibroplex paddles and wants to know whether to set the radio’s >>> keyer for mode A or mode B iambic. He has never used an iambic keyer or a >>> bug, before. >>> >>> I learned iambic keying with a WB4VVF circuit board, back in the early >>> 1970s, so mode B is what I prefer. I know there are a lot of >>> died-in-the-wool CW people who frequent this list and I would like any >>> opinions as to whether it is easier for a newbie to learn iambic mode A or >>> mode B. I have no clue. >>> >>> Thanks in advance for any advice or opinions that I can pass along. >>> >>> Gary >>> KzeroCX >>> __ >>> 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...@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 w...@mac.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 louand...@yahoo.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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] A or B?
As a longtime CW instructor and operator I absolutely recommend mode B. It’s easier to learn despite what you might hear from some comments,and it’s particularly easier to handle compound letters such as C,Q, Y,etc. A requires you to make an extra movement to complete many characters. One very helpful practice method is to use a metronome at a slow tempo, say 40-60 beats and practice your characters. As soon as students see that releasing the paddles to create that last Dit or dah they’ll grasp it as more useful and less movement. It takes a bit of practice but will make for cleaner and more relaxed sending as you won’t have to make that last extra move to complete the last Dit or dah. Many newer rigs only incorporate mode B-why? It’s far and away the most popular because it’s easier to use. And B will stop you from slapping the paddles which can lead to poor timing,and potentially causing the paddles to skid around if they’re not well anchored. It’s rhythm and conservation of movement. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Jul 6, 2021, at 09:42, Mike Morrow wrote: > > Iambic mode B has the distressing characteristic of ending any iambic string > after the paddles are released with a dot (when the iambic string ended with > a dash) or with a dash (when the iambic string ended with a dot) for which > there had been NO paddle closure. > > > > > Mode A always ends an iambic string with only the dot or dash that was being > sent when the paddles were opened. > > > > > The paddle timing is more critical with mode B if an unwanted dot or dash is > not to follow paddle release. . Mode B often requires the paddles to be > released earlier, before the character has been completely sent. Mode B > privides no reduction in the paddle manipulations required to generate any > character in exchange for its more critical timing. Mode B is the legacy of > a logic fault in an early electronic keyer that became advertised as a > feature. Elecraft sets Mode A as its default because of its relaxed timing > to do the same things. > > > > > Whatever mode one learns, using the other mode will play real havoc when > using an iambic keyer. Mode A guys get an extra dot or dash on some of their > characters, while mode B guys miss a dot or dash on some of their characters. > Under such circumstances I use a paddle-slap technique, treating the two > paddles as only one and never allowing both paddles to close simultaneously. > > > > > Unfortunately and inexplicably, almost all Asian-source radios allow ONLY > mode B for their iambic keyer. That is why most hams are mode B users. One > could argue that one should learn mode B simply because that is the only > choice allowed for incompetently designed ham gear. I convinced the ARRL > Product Review manager years ago to add a declaration of what modes of iambic > keying are allowed by any radio under review. I have rejected an Icom radio > I really wanted for no reason other than it allowed only mode B. There is > absolutely no excuse for any radio to deny mode selection except designer > incompetence or laziness. Elecraft has always supplied excellent iambic > keying with choice of modes. > > > > > BOTTOM LINE: Mode A is more straightforward and easier to learn, but mode B > is the only mode the keyer in many radios will allow. Neither mode offers > any advantage in terms of reduced paddle manipulation. > > > > > Mike / KK5F > > > > > -Original Message- > From: Gary Peterson > Sent: Jul 6, 2021 9:34 AM > To: > Subject: [Elecraft] A or B? > > > An old friend, who has been inactive for several years, recently purchased a > used K3. This is the first transceiver that he’s owned that includes a built > in keyer. He has always operated CW with a straight key. He has acquired > Vibroplex paddles and wants to know whether to set the radio’s keyer for mode > A or mode B iambic. He has never used an iambic keyer or a bug, before. I > learned iambic keying with a WB4VVF circuit board, back in the early 1970s, > so mode B is what I prefer. I know there are a lot of died-in-the-wool CW > people who frequent this list and I would like any opinions as to whether it > is easier for a newbie to learn iambic mode A or mode B. I have no clue. > Thanks in advance for any advice or opinions that I can pass along. Gary > KzeroCX __ > > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@m
Re: [Elecraft] K4: Coolness factor meets production complexities
Same here.when the radio arrives I know it’ll be great and ready to go. What is the obsession with weekly updates? I want them sorting out the radios not wasting time on a bunch of emails etc. In the meantime get outside and turn on your radio and get on the air. The bands are coming back to life. Also be aware that some of the’pot stirrers’ on this subject don’t even have one on order. Hard to fathom frankly. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Apr 1, 2021, at 13:17, Neil Zampella wrote: > > This is why I'm going to patiently wait for the K4 kit release, along > with putting money aside for it. I suspect that along with the other > engineering challenges, y'all are working on putting together the > instructions for a proper kit build. > > While it won't be as complex as a K2, it will probably have its foibles > and issues that will need to be worked out. > > Keep on keeping on !! :) > > Neil, KN3ILZ > >> On 3/31/2021 8:33 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: >> Greetings from the mothership. >> >> Q: Are Eric and I keeping up with the K4 megathreads on the forums? >> A: You bet. >> >> But we're not weighing in as often as we normally would. >> >> On the one hand, it's affirming as a small company to be at the eye of a >> storm of anxious demand. On the other hand we really feel your pain. On the >> third hand (we need three these days), we're both seriously overworked >> trying to ramp up production. >> >> A radio with this many features and so much new tech -- the coolness factor >> -- comes with a lot of new assembly and test procedures. A whole lot of >> invention. New tricks we didn't know we had to learn. Over the past week >> alone our manufacturing engineering team probably shaved 50% off the total >> time per unit. >> >> For me, it's feast/famine. I have serial #2 on my workbench and use it >> every day. Every day there's new and improved software to be played with and >> thoroughly vetted. That's the fun part. But I also spend hours daily >> optimizing interaction between the K4's multiple processors, evolving faster >> ways to do alignment/test, and helping our software team work through a long >> wish-list of new capabilities. >> >> The work can be tedious. Still, every evening when the team finally knocks >> off (and I do mean every evening, including most weekends), I get another >> chance to be a kid in the candy store. This rig's just so much fun to >> operate. And I'm confident that for every new K4 that comes off the line >> ready for its first test drive, there's an operator who'll experience the >> same feeling I do. >> >> Despite the K4's advanced circuitry, I'm always reminded of my very first >> efforts at home-brew, when I was maybe 15. Discovery. Tweaking. From raw >> parts with their leads twisted together to prototypes only a mother could >> love to finished product to that first demo at a club meeting. It's much the >> same now, though the parts are smaller, the tools more exotic, and the >> stakes higher. >> >> What I can promise is that we're putting everything we have into the K4, >> like we have with every product over the past 20 years. We can't wait to get >> them into your hands, and hear the smiles behind the mics and keys. >> >> 73, >> >> Wayne >> N6KR >> >> >> >> > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Are external tuners really needed with Chamaeleon antennas?
I absolutely concur with Walter-a simple wire antenna will be easier to setup and use,and with the exceptional internal tuner of the KX2 there’s no reason to spend for anything else. Although it’s not as efficient the AX1/AEX1 might be worth considering as it may be easy to setup for you depending on your situation. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Mar 22, 2021, at 08:46, Walter Underwood wrote: > > With the KX2 ATU, save your money and don’t get the MPAS Lite. > > Use the setup described on page 10 of the KX2 manual, two wires connected to > a double binding post adapter on the radio. That will be lighter, cheaper, > and more efficient than the Chameleon antenna. > > SOTAbeams has nice wire winders (I like the “midi” size) and high-visibility > antenna wire. > > https://www.sotabeams.co.uk/antenna-accessories-and-hardware/ > > wunder > K6WRU > Walter Underwood > CM87wj > http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog) > >> On Mar 22, 2021, at 8:24 AM, Jeff Grillo wrote: >> >> I am considering purchasing a Chamaeleon MPAS Lite and from what I gather >> from advertisements they require an external wide range antenna tuner to >> work. I have a kx2 with the internal tuner. I am guessing there is something >> beyond my paygrade as to why this would not be sufficient? If anyone has >> direct experience with these antennas please let me know your experience and >> what you think. Also… I am interested in this particular antenna because I >> am visually impaired and it seems like something I could set up myself >> relatively easily. Thanks! 73 KO4NE >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> __ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net >> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >> Message delivered to wun...@wunderwood.org > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] K2 filter optimisation
Let me know what you find out about Mac options. Thanks Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Feb 12, 2021, at 11:44, Don Wilhelm wrote: > > Ian, > > Spectrum Lab runs on Windows and Linux, but Mac is not specifically > mentioned. Google for it and read for yourself. > > If you have a Windows machine, you can use Spectrogram. Download from my > website www.w3fpr.com - Scroll to near the bottom of the home page to find > the links. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > >> On 2/12/2021 3:59 AM, Ian Maude wrote: >> Hi all, >> It’s been a while but good to be back. I have just resurrected my K2 and >> had to do a reset due to not having any sidetone. This meant a certain >> amount of realignment. >> When I originally aligned this (back in 2004) I was able to use Spectrogram >> to align the filters well. Is there a modern replacement for this, >> preferably for Mac? > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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] XG3
I have a question about the XG3 signal generator. I’m setting it up for some troubleshooting and tracing on my K2 (issues with 160 module installation) and I have a TEK 453 scope that I barely understand how to set up properly. I got the unit from the TEK museum here in Portland,OR and it was completely refurbished and calibrated by the guys there. The issue is that when I connect the XG3 to the scope (just for observation and practice before I connect it to the K2) it seems to be just outputting a straight line like a DC voltage. Shouldn’t it be showing a waveform either square or sine? I tried connecting it to an older scope just to check and same results. What am I missing? I’ve played with the scope controls by it’s quite likely I’m missing something obvious! Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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] K2 160 module
Need a bit of help here-I’ve installed the 160 receive module on my venerable K2 #1010 which I built back in 2000..for some reason I seemed to have created a short across the main antenna jack (J4) with this installation. In testing after Installation the reciever was totally deaf as was TX, and I found that there’s a short somewhere between the center pin and the outer sleeve of J4,the main BNC jack first the radio. I inspected the jack just in case,but appears okay. I’m suspecting some sort of short around J14,the 16 pin jack for the adapter. When installed,the radio functions normally and the module is recognized in the menu. Just zip on recieve and transmit. Inspection of the 16 pin socket didn’t reveal anything obvious under a magnifier. The radio was in daily use up to a few days before. I checked the obvious things ,or so I thought! Thanks for any help Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] KX2 plexiglass
Well at least the bugs were external! Thanks Wayne for the information. I’ll try flipping it around and I’ll check with customer service if it’s still an issue. Mine was a fairly early one so the change could’ve happen later. Usually a gentle puff of air under the cover is enough to get the guys scooting along. Maybe they’re attracted to the CW...haven’t done much night operations. I’m kinda proud of having this problem of overuse! Still a long,long way to Mt. Goat award. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Aug 24, 2020, at 17:38, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > Hi Dan, > > Flip the bezel over when you reinstall it. This will compress the convex > catenary side against the case, reducing the gap. > > Note that at some point in the KX2's history we revised the bezel, moving the > screw holes slightly outward. Customer support could help you determine if > you have the older one, which is more likely to bow as you described. Free > replacement on us if it's an issue. > > Meanwhile, please relocate any live arthropods you find to a new home. > Something fecund, preferably. We're in the midst of an insect apocalypse, you > may have heard > > 73, > Wayne > N6KR > > > >> On Aug 24, 2020, at 5:15 PM, Paul Van Dyke wrote: >> >> So, you are telling us that the KX2 has a few bugs? >> >> Paul KB9AVO >> >>> On Mon, Aug 24, 2020, 7:33 PM Dan Presley wrote: >>> >>> Hi folks-got a bit of an unusual issue with the plexiglass readout cover >>> for my KX2. I use it a lot portable and SOTA and on an activation last week >>> noticed that I had a few tiny interlopers crawling underneath the covering >>> adding moving symbols to the display:)). After inspecting I noted that >>> the plexiglass has slightly warped and bows up in the middle just enough to >>> let the occasional spider mite or piece of vegetation to slip under the >>> glass. I could put a small bead of caulk I guess but it’s such a small gap. >>> Probably the result of having the radio outside a lot in the sun-but that’s >>> what it’s designed for! Kinda fun to watch them dance around with the >>> changing display >>> >>> >>> Dan Presley 503-701-3871 >>> danpresley@me. com >>> n7...@arrl.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 pvandyke1...@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 n...@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
[Elecraft] KX2 plexiglass
Hi folks-got a bit of an unusual issue with the plexiglass readout cover for my KX2. I use it a lot portable and SOTA and on an activation last week noticed that I had a few tiny interlopers crawling underneath the covering adding moving symbols to the display:)). After inspecting I noted that the plexiglass has slightly warped and bows up in the middle just enough to let the occasional spider mite or piece of vegetation to slip under the glass. I could put a small bead of caulk I guess but it’s such a small gap. Probably the result of having the radio outside a lot in the sun-but that’s what it’s designed for! Kinda fun to watch them dance around with the changing display Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] New antenna works!
Interesting subject. The two big X factors in success that are seldom mentioned are propagation and most importantly-operating skills. The other day I set out for a short SOTA activation wanting to set up a portable 2 element vertical beam developed by JP1QEC. I’ve used it with good results on 20M as compared to my typical end fed. Anyway-I forgot the poles which are essential to properly erect it,so what to do? I usually pack a variety of small portable wire antennas ,so not wanting to waste the outing I tossed a wire into a fairly low tree branch. My intended band 20 was packed with contesters fun the NAQP and furthermore the answer wouldn’t load below 3:1 despite extra radials Well-let’s try 30 and 40 just because. It turned out 30 was open and I managed 3 ‘S2S’ (summit to summit) contacts,and one on 40. Probably NVIS,but Antenna strength was better than I expected-I worked my 4 for a valid activation and a few more beside. Definitely less than optimal antenna but sometimes you just need to get out and operate. As I tell my CW students-get on and operate with what you’ve got. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Aug 4, 2020, at 02:08, K8TE wrote: > > Kevin is on to something when he compares antennas instantly which I assume > from his description. Most antenna anecdotes state something like "It works > much better than...I had up previously. But, both antennas aren't up and in > use at the same time. > > My good friend Alan, K0BG, puts it very well. "WORKs is an acronym which > means WithOut Real Knowledge." Why? Because the performance assertions are > not comparative like one gets when using two WSPRLit transmitters on two > antennas at the same time over time. Those data will show which antenna > performs better and how consistently better one antenna is than the other. > In every case when I compare antennas, they always out-perform one or two > others at some point in time. But, one of the three performs better on > certain bands at certain times, most, but not all of the time. > > This past Saturday, I frequently noted one dipole out-performed the other on > a specific station at a specific time, regardless of the band (40m and 20m). > I had callers answer my CQ's that I could not here on the other dipole and > that was true for both dipoles most of the time. They would "change places" > at different times for the same paths. Being able to instantly switch > between antennas (K3 with internal ATU) helped me make more contacts than if > I had just one of those dipoles, both about the same height, but at nearly > right angles to each other. When I had a vertical in the air, it would > sometimes out-perform both dipoles over the same paths. > > Every antenna "WORKS", even a dummy load with imperfect coax. Some antennas > generally out-perform others. Don't tell me yours works better than mine > without scientific proof, not anecdotes. W8JI has done a lot of antenna > modeling and on-the-air comparisons in making assertions about antennas' > performance. I recently read his statement about end-fed wires being a cult > today. He goes on to explain their failings don't appear when using QRP and > with no other antenna available for comparisons. > > As N0AX wrote, "The best antennas is the one that is up in the air." or > similar words. He also wrote the half wave dipole is simple and it works > well and makes the best first choice. I would add, the higher the better > until it's a half wavelength high. K9YC has done modeling that points this > out and debunks most of the NVIS myths that abound in which users state we > need to lower our antennas for NVIS. > > I use end-fed wires when appropriate--SOTA, POTA, and on county lines were > simplicity and rapid deployment matter more than RFI, most of which I can > mitigate or ignore. I use dipoles at home and most are resonant. I also > use WSPRLite to get scientific performance data before I assert they WORK or > which one is better. As I wrote above, I will keep both those dipoles > because they both out-perform the other at times. As my antenna farm grows, > one dipole will remain as my measurement "standard" so I can truly say my > new antenna (nothing short and shiny) out-performs my dipole. And yes, > neither is perfect so I use a tuner when necessary on certain > bands/frequencies. > > 73, Bill, K8TE > > > > -- > Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by:
[Elecraft] SOTA
After reading Wayne’s great post I couldn’t help but send this. A group of us (4 hams) hiked up to a forest service lookout tower in the Oregon cascades and operated. It’s brief but you get the idea. I’m running the KX2 and AX1 on 20. Long steep uphill hike-Clear Lake Butte near Timothy Lake,if you know the area. About 4500’ actually going down was harder on the 68 year old knees than up! https://share.icloud.com/photos/0Fv8n8o31svejy1aBYdV4T0lw iCloud link available until Jul 8 Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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] Fwd: [Elecraft-KX] Made the decision to buy an Elecraft... now I can't decide which one :/
Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net Begin forwarded message: > > > All good questions. I have both the 2 and the 3 and I find myself using the > KX2 almost exclusively on my SOTA and portable outings. If you do any hiking > at all you’ll appreciate the sizing and weight difference. Performance wise > the 3 has some slight edge if you buy the roofing filter otherwise you’d > likely never notice the difference. Also using the internal battery is > huge,but I’m strictly QRP CW so efficiency is vastly improved-I can get a lot > of operating in with the internal battery. Having the 2M module is handy on > the KX3 but I usually just toss in a small handheld if I think there’s much > chance of 2M usage. I use the 3 as my home station and it’s excellent though > it may get replaced by the K4. I doubt you’ll find a used KX2-not many > letting go of these! > > > Dan Presley 503-701-3871 > danpresley@me. com > n7...@arrl.net > > >>> On May 29, 2020, at 22:02, HB via groups.io >>> wrote: >>> >> >> I went with the KX3. The filters are very nice! I run with the internal >> batteries and do 10 watts. I do have a battery if I know the conditions >> will be tough and I need all 15 watts. >> >> This past weekend, I did a SOTA activation on 20 and 40 meters. Then I threw >> a roll up Jpole in a tree and called CQ on 2 meter FM. Made 6 more contacts >> in 4 minutes! That has been typical for me. My SOTA kit is a small satchel >> with room for a sandwich and bottle of water. >> >> I have made many 160 meter ft8 contacts at home on the back porch with a >> crappy 80 meter dipole running 5 watts. >> >> My KX3 gets way more use than my K3s. >> >> Hank >> >>>> On May 29, 2020, at 11:49 PM, Brian Mathews wrote: >>>> >>> Hello all and thanks allowing me to join, >>> >>> I am new to this group. While I have a lot of fun with QRP it has always >>> been here at the home QTH and nothing portable. Well I got invited to a >>> SOTA activation a few weeks ago and I am totally hooked on the idea of >>> working portable so now I am trying to put together a kit which includes a >>> better transceiver. I currently have 2 QCX 5w transceivers and have been >>> watching the news on the Icom 705 when I saw a comparison on the KX2/3 and >>> started looking toward the Elecraft. I am very impressed with the features >>> and reviews and I have decided I would prefer to support a US manufacturer. >>> I am also happy to see one of the owners here participating in the forum, >>> which I could not expect from one of the "other three" manufacturers. >>> >>> So with most of my operating to be done portable, but not being someone who >>> is overly concerned about weight, I am leaning toward the KX3. Here are a >>> few questions: >>> >>> 1) I see there are optional filters for the KX3 - is there any option for >>> filters on the KX2? How does it affect usability when in a high RF noise >>> environment? (for example having the KX2 with no filter) >>> >>> 2) is there any problem with running an external battery? I have a Bioenno >>> 12v 12Ah pack that works great with my current setup. >>> >>> 3) How useful is the 2M option on the KX3 in making summit contacts during >>> SOTA? Is that the main purpose for this unit or is it to have an >>> "all-in-one" for the "shack-on-the-belt" VHF types? I don't operate much >>> VHF but I think it would be handy to have a 2M yagi on the KX3 during SOTA >>> in case the HF conditions are not favorable. >>> >>> 4) I have done well buying used radios in the past and I see some KX3s >>> listed and selling quickly lately. Is there a service available where you >>> can send a used radio in for a "tune-up" or just to bring it up to current >>> spec? Is that even necessary? >>> >>> Thanks in advance for any help with this. I already have a fully decked >>> out KX2 waiting in the online shopping cart but I'm hesitant to push the >>> button :D Also I guess they are backordered so maybe I should just watch >>> the list for a used one? >>> >>> 73 >>> >>> Brian - W6BRY >> _._,_._,_ >> Groups.io Links: >> You receive all messages sent to this group. >> >> View/Reply Online (#66336) | Reply To Group | Reply To Sender | Mute This >> Topic | New Topic >> >> Your Subscription | Contact Group Owner | Unsubscribe [n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Fwd: Establishing A New Station
Loops are touchy by nature and you have to be very sensitive to the surroundings-metals, bodies (yes your body in close proximity will affect tuning). I use a small antenna analyzer to get it close and sometimes I have to adjust and step away from the antenna,take a reading and readjust I then follow up with adjustments with the radio connected for maximum band noise Also it needs to be a minimum of one diameter of the loop above ground,and more is better within reason. Is there a close ceiling that limits the height of the loop? Getting it in the clear is important,although with patience I’ve made contacts even indoors. Pick the bands carefully for propagation and as mentioned earlier tune for resonance. I’m strictly a QRP CW guy (5W Max) and have had good results by carefully adjusting to the surroundings and conditions. I have 2 loops-the AlexLoop and the W4OP. AlexLoop is good for 20 M and up while the W4OP is very efficient at 30,40 and 60 M. It’s very well made and an excellent design,although not the best option for backpacking as it’s a bit heavier. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On May 14, 2020, at 19:21, Phil Kane wrote: > > >> On 5/13/2020 12:42 PM, brianchapn...@rogers.com wrote: >> >> Im thinking of a loop. I've had good luck with them. Any thoughts? > > I've been using a loop on the porch of our ground level apartment. At > 15 watts. It is useless - can't get it to tune properly and I often > think that I would have a better signal with my dummy load at 100 watts. > If you are getting good luck you must be doing something right. At > east you have the advantage of 34 stories - good for you. > > 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane > Elecraft K2/100 s/n 5402 > > From a Clearing in the Silicon Forest > Beaverton (Washington County) Oregon > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] KX3/KX2 remote for FD
I’ll comment briefly about what we’re doing but I don’t want this to morph into a discussion about what others may think or wish to do for FD. Remote operating is as likely in a disaster scenario as any other-all depends on your infrastructure and whether you rely on conventional internet access or other networks. Nothing wrong with home operation or solo portable either. Field day this year is what you choose to do comfortably and explore options to keep you safe. Our setup is designed for near total isolation and no close contact with other operators. Oregon has strict guidelines that we’ll follow-so far we have the lowest rate of infection in the country and plan to keep it that way. Exploring remote operating will also benefit many hams that may not have access to larger antennas or quieter locations well beyond this particular event. If you want to know more about our plans I’m happy to discuss that off the reflector. So-what are options for remote control of the KX3 and KX2? Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On May 12, 2020, at 19:20, Brian Hunt wrote: > > We usually set up FD at one of the state beaches here in NorCal but not this > year. Parking is all closed off and no special event permits are being > processed. We will have an individual effort also. I'll be running my KX2 or > K1 off the aux battery I pull from the Land Rover just like I would if the > big one hits. CW only so no computer needed except for logging (which can run > from mains power per the rules). Gonna be different!! > > GL all. > > 73, > Brian, K0DTJ > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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] KX3/KX2 remote for FD
I was curious what folks might be doing for remote setups for field day,in particular for the KX3 and KX2. Our club has a great 5 acre site with tall trees that we’ll use to spread out,but it would be nice to have a remote option as well. We have a bunch of KX3s and 2s-no K3 or K4s as yet-well almost no one has a 4! I have a pignology-piglet setup but I don’t think that’ll work for true internet remote-just short range Bluetooth. Let me know-thanks! Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] QRP FD KX2 Batteries & FT8 Report
Yes we were running about that rate on cw up here in Oregon. 4A 5w on our KX3s. Some of the visiting new hams had never seen real cw with a paddle (!) in action. We had 3 antennas-ZL special,2 element 40m wire beam and a rhombic switchable open/closed loop for either 20 or 80. They were all strung on a 550 ‘catenary ‘ line at about 75 feet between pine trees. I love holding a frequency with 5W :). And-no interference between the KX3s-not so the other brands that occasionally showed up. Call W7LT Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Jun 25, 2019, at 08:28, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > Meanwhile, some CW stations were running contacts at a rate of several per > minute. With no automation :) > > Wayne > N6KR > > >> On Jun 25, 2019, at 8:25 AM, Carl Jón Denbow wrote: >> >> Peter, >> >> I am curious how you got FT8 to do the proper FD exchange? I read a post >> where some hams were discussing this and it sounded very difficult and >> complex, so I decided against trying it. One guy actually had two FT8 >> programs running simultaneously, with one connected to HRD, which somehow >> enabled him to do the proper exchange. His description made absolutely no >> sense to me, so though I’m an experienced FT8 op, I decided to forgo FT8 for >> this FD. I’m curious how you accomplished this feat! >> >> 73, >> >> Carl >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> === >> Carl Jón Denbow, N8VZ >> 17 Coventry Lane >> Athens, Ohio 45701-3718 >> >> c...@n8vz.com >> www.n8vz.com >> EM89wh >> >> IRLP 4533 Echolink 116070 >> >> PSK and JT65 Forever! >> === >> >>> On Jun 25, 2019, at 9:37 AM, Peter West wrote: >>> >>> When our club’s plans for FD fell through at the last minute I set up 1B >>> with my trusty KX-2 with a Bioenno battery and two internal KX2 battery >>> pacs on my back porch. Got a Par 40-20-10 end-fed up about 40’ in a >>> north-south orientation only to find band conditions here were pretty bad >>> here in the north with QRN, QSB and faint signals at best. So switched to >>> FT-8. I was forced to run QRP (which isn’t an issue as I am primarily a QRP >>> contester anyway) as anything over 5 watts caused the rig to overheat to >>> the point of automatically reducing power to 5 watts. Had WSJT, JT Alerts >>> and even N1MM all cooperating and auto logging so all I had to do was stop >>> reading the newspaper and occasionally glance over to the computer to see >>> if I had worked anybody since the last time I clicked on a callsign. Then I >>> started to notice my setup wasn’t completing a lot of calls which I had >>> initiated. I started to pay more attention to the screen and discovered >>> that it appeared to me that my signal was getting swamped out by QRO (100 >>> watts or more on FD) signals which I couldn’t readily detect. At a >>> suggestion from the FT8 FB group switched on the hold-my-transmit-frequency >>> button. On CW my rates aren’t much different from QRP to 100 watts as I’m >>> only 2 S-units down and aggressive operating skills can compensate for a >>> lot of differences in power and I can deal with QRM I can hear and see. Not >>> so on FT-8. I am rebuilding my contest station and only have the end-fed >>> and an HF-2 vertical up right now and know that better results on QRP are >>> largely antenna and location dependent (oh to live on a saltwater marsh). >>> Running FT8 with the KX-2 on FD was an education and I’ve got to do some >>> thinking about how to improve my chances if I decide to try this again. All >>> in all great fun with some learning but can’t wait for more future >>> propagation. Maybe I should by the Elecraft amp LOL. >>> __ >>> 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...@qth.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.ne
[Elecraft] AX1 SOTA
Just wanted to pass along my first impressions of the AX1 on a recent SOTA activation. I picked up the antenna at the Seapac hamfest in Oregon last week,and then a group of us hams were headed to a SOTA site this last Sunday in the Oregon cascade range. We went to Clear Lake Butte not far from Mt Hood to a fire lookout tower site. A 2 mile hike up a pretty steep road but we made it. I set up my KX2 and the AX1 on a picnic table and spread out 3 13 foot radials. It tuned right down to 1:1 on 20 and in very short order I had 15 contacts from North Carolina to Texas,Arizona,Colorado,Missouri and some west coast guys. Running 5 W cw,and then switched to 17 M for a few more coast to coast Q’s. Of course we had a 4500 foot elevation and practically no noise but still it performed very well. Of course the tiny size is a plus when you’re backpacking up a steep grade! Wayne and Eric have another winner on their hands. Thanks guys! Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Alpha Antenna/KX3.
Antennas are always a fascinating and debatable subject. My 2 cents on the Mag loops is that they can be a useful addition in the right circumstance if you spend the time to learn how to use them properly. I do a lot of SOTA and portable work and I find the loop is often a good solution for a quick setup especially if you need a low profile or don’t have good support options for wires. I prefer a resonant dipole if possible,or an end fed with counterpoise,but the loop can be effective where that’s the best option. The trick is to get it at least 6-8 feet high and far enough away from any metal structure,and a reasonable distance from you the operator! They can be finicky to tune and you can’t move easily more than 10 kHz without retuning. Since I’m usually just on SOTA frequencies or QRP it’s not an issue. CW is really the best mode as you’re limited in power to usually 10-20 W by the loop. You must pay close attention to construction also-I personally found the W4OP loop to be of superior quality compared to others. Dale W4OP is an active ham who takes pride in his product (not unlike Wayne and Eric!). They are kinda spendy but you get a very well made unit plus excellent customer support. They’re a bit bulkier than others but will cover more bands effectively,including 40 and 60 (and 6) meters than other brands . I use a collapsible photo light tripod to mount mine-if you use a tripod you should order the tripod adapter as well. They now offer a remote tuning option which the late Joe Everhart N2CX reviewed recently in QST. Dale W4OP also is active on the Mag loop reflector and will offer excellent advice on home brewing loops should you want to try that. Before you buy one try to borrow one and do some research to see if it’s the right fit for you. Lots of options for antennas. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Jun 5, 2019, at 08:29, W8JH wrote: > > Mark, > > I have always been a fan of resonant quarter wave vertical antennas. MFJ > makes a 17 foot collapsible whip antenna which sells for around $60 IIRC. > With this whip I can extend to a resonant quarter wave anywhere from 6m to > 20m. Although I experimented with properly cut radials for each band I > found it was not worth the trouble. Four 17 ft long radials work well > enough for me and are easy to coil up and transport. The whip itself > collapses down to about 31 inches long. > > Another ham did a nice writeup here: > http://www.kd5fx.com/FXportable/fx_portable_antenna.htm > > With this setup I was able to work VP8SGI on 20m CW with my KX3 while > travelling in Arizona. Anectdotal evidence but it was fun for me to get an > ATNO this way. > > 73, > > W8JH, Joe > > > > - > 73, > > Joe, W8JH > > K3s, KPA 500, KAT 500 and KX3 happy user. > -- > Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] CW with my K3s and KX3
I’ll throw one more activity in the mix-NAQCC (North American QRP Cw club) does a variety of CW/slow speed events throughout the year. In fact next week (Sunday 10/7 to 10/14 - 10/8 UTC) is the ‘NA’ Sprint where a number of stations will be using special callsigns like N1A,N2A,etc. I’ll be taking a stint as N7A at some point during the week. Check the NAQCC website for details and a nice newsletter. A fun challenge is to try to work all of the N#A areas. We’ll be around the usual QRP/SKCC frequencies. Another idea is to try checking in to the many slow speed cw nets. I teach CW (locally-Oregon) and have a couple of recent graduates regularly checking in to these nets- a nice low pressure way to get experience. The NAQCC website lists a number of nets. Dan Presley 503-701-3871 danpresley@me. com n7...@arrl.net > On Oct 5, 2018, at 13:52, Fred Jensen wrote: > > Everyone is s very literal these days! [:-) I used "J-38" to mean any > straight key that suits your fancy ... i.e. keyer+paddle, bug, straight key. > "J-38" is just well known and shorter than "straight key," which I've now > typed three times, with and without quotes and a comma. Just need to ditch > the keyboard until comfortable with your manual keying device, keyboards > introduce a separate skill ... typing ... into the mix. > > Regarding Mode A/B: Mode B was a misteak in the programming of an early > Curtis keyer chip. Or maybe Mode A was the mistake. Might have been some > chip other than a Curtis. Every transceiver with a keyer I've owned would do > both [1 FT, 2 TS, K2, K3]. Can't remember if the KX1 would but I think it > did. > > Thus endeth Morse factoids for 5 Oct. > > 73, > > Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW > Sparks NV DM09dn > Washoe County > >> On 10/5/2018 11:58 AM, Mike Morrow wrote: >> That's a very good and comprehensive list of suggestions, Fred. I've only >> one nit to pick in this statement: >> >>> 3. 86 the keyboard and send with paddle/bug/J-38 >> Avoid the J-38 military straight key. The common J-38 was used in military >> service ONLY for Morse training. The equally-common J-37 is the Signal >> Corps key most often used with real front-line sets that might be exposed to >> combat environments. However, the Navy Type 26003 key is the finest of >> common military straight keys. It's what I use if forced to use an >> Asian-origin commercial ham rig. They seem not to know how to make a >> transceiver capable of Mode A iambic keying. I'd rub two wires together >> before I'd ever try using the horrific Mode B that almost all Asian ham rigs >> force on buyers. I really appreciate how every Elecraft rig ever made >> allows great Mode A iambic keying, so I don't often need to break out my >> 26003 straight key. >> >> Mike / KK5F >> > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Craziest / most rewarding QSOs
Two bits- I was on 40 M CW one night and heard a rather loud CQ from ‘W7CQR’ (my call is N7CQR). So naturally I responded because it’s unusual to work anyone with your same suffix. It turned out that not only was he in my town, but that we were friends from many years past when we played music together (old time string music-‘pre bluegrass’) At the time we were playing somehow the subject of ham radio never came up! Moral is always talk about your hobbies! On a more current note-I was reading a previous post where one of the folks was commenting on the high noise levels we experience today. A remedy of sorts is to escape the urban area if possible. Today was the HF campout (we do this every summer) for our local ARES group up in the Mt.Hood Nat’l forest of Oregon-near Timothy Lake if anyone knows where that is. I took the KX2 and a loop antenna (W4OP)about 6 feet high, which I use extensively on SOTA and other outings. Lightweight and goes up in about 3 minutes. Anyway, I set it up and a crowd gathered and someone commented that it didn’t seem to be working as there was no band noise (20M),and another ’the bands are dead'. I sat down,put out a CQ and in 5 minutes worked a slew of stations from Minnesota,Arizona, and other locations around the country. 5 W to a small antenna. Yes-there was almost no noise-just signals. Try it if you can…I’ve been licensed since 1966 and having more fun than ever and getting in shape hiking the SOTA summits. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Field Day Report
I was part of the W7LT Portland (OR) Amateur Rdaio Club effort again this year, and had a blast. We were 4A all qrp at 5 W on a local park that’s on an old volcano (Kelley Butte) with elevation and tons of trees. I used my KX3 for 40,20 and 15 CW coupled to a rhombic/loop antenna copied from the June 2017 article by WU0I. You can switch the configuration between a rhombic or a full loop at the end opposite the feed point (450 ohm line). In the article it’s done manually but one of the club guys devised a 24V latching relay we could engage /disengage by sending a pulse through the feed line (disconnected!). I ended up using it mostly in the rhombic configuration as it loaded better and was quieter, and seemed to perform slightly better on 40, my primary band. Still I wasn’t too impressed by its’ performance on 40, but I have to say that on 20 and 15 it was outstanding! Almost always one call and I had ‘em. 15 opened very nicely for a big run for me Sunday morning around 9 AM (PDT) and I stayed there till the end-worked a ton. Of course the KX3 shone particularly with the filtering-I used the APF a lot and guys were blown away how clear it was. I also noticed a big difference from last year since I installed the roofing filter. I used an amplified speaker system so folks could hear as they came in-next year I need to find a small portable mixer so I can use phones but still allow others to hear. I had the panadaptor as well which was helpful, but I need to learn to use it more effectively in this crowded situation. the other thing that was really helpful was the little wooden stand to mount the radio and panadaptor from the ‘NOGA’ (North Georgia QRP club) that Marino KE7EMV loaned me. All in all I think I did about 2-250 Q’s with only a 3 hour nap, but next year I plan to have other operators I’m training on CW to spell me.And-there’s another cw station with old gear that I need to switch to another KX3 or K3! My next adventure will be SOTA with the KX2 in Oregon and a couple of QRP Foxhounds where I’m the fox-planning to go to some SOTA sites for these runs in August. All fun! Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net > On Jun 25, 2018, at 4:40 AM, Rod Hardman wrote: > > Oakville ARC VE3HB (Ontario, Canada) ran an all KX2 QRP Battery Field Day > this year from a a country back yard. Lots of rain but good times. > > Quite a positive education for all, esp the hardcore CW ops accustomed to 100 > Watt contest stations. Ended up logging on iPads (Hamlog) syncing to a > Raspberry Pi Zero Server - which the Operators found easy in power but the > lack of automation proved tedious. (We should have implemented the Piglets) > That’s ok, we automated with people! > > Everyone had very good things to say about the KX2. Fantastic experience and > the bands were kind to us. > > Best part was not having to listen to the generators (no end of Field day > headache!) > > Rod, VA3ON > > On Jun 24, 2018, at 23:40, <mailto:ktalb...@gamewood.net>> <mailto:ktalb...@gamewood.net>> wrote: > > FD was a hoot from the farm here in southside Virginia. The KX2, an Alpha > Delta dipole, and N1MM+ on a $99 Kodak laptop performed flawlessly. The most > amazing thing was 10m! Since I embarked on my QRP CW adventure 4 years ago I > had logged not a single 10m contact. This weekend I bagged 26 Qs on 10m, and > as many on 15m. My total of 212 in 6 hours of operation certainly thrilled > me! I really miss the FD social events of the late 1980's in Greensboro, > NC. But when you are trying to bust a pileup with 5-watts who has time for > socializing? > Ken ke4rg > > -Original Message- > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On > Behalf Of Wayne Burdick > Sent: Sunday, June 24, 2018 6:30 PM > To: Elecraft Reflector > Cc: k...@yahoogroups.com > Subject: [Elecraft] Field Day Report > > A large group gathered for the K6SRA 3A/SCV FD operation in San Jose. Despite > temperatures in the mid-90 s and blistering sunshine, we had many visitors, > including a lot of curious non-hams. > > This tends to be a social event with lots of conversation and ad-hoc > experimentation with radios and antennas, so I won t be bragging about our > claimed Field Day score. Still, a good time was had by all, with vast > quantities of water and other liquids consumed to avoid heat stroke. > > Late Saturday afternoon I undertook a brief solo trek to exercise the KX2. I > had intended to climb a nearby hill. Given the outrageous temperatures, I > settled for a picnic table on the other side of the parking lot, beneath a > large oak. > > Normally I would have tossed a wire into this tree. Instead I used a > prototype 2-band, 4 whip, in keeping with the two QSOs per foot challenge > we proposed in a recen
Re: [Elecraft] KX2 built in mic
Yes that’s it! I’m so used to pressing and holding the XMIT as I do that to tune my magloop (LNR). You can’t use the autotunes with a loop. Hopefully the next time I decide to go SSB I’ll remember! By the way-a loop and the KX2 make a great portable combination. The new addition of the CW logging feature is an absolute lifesaver for SOTA-when you’re on a tough location t’s tricky trying to juggle the radio and a notebook . Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net > On Sep 24, 2017, at 11:00 AM, Wayne Burdick <n...@elecraft.com> wrote: > > Dan, > > You may have been pressing and holding XMIT, which goes into TUNE mode (CW). > You just need to *tap* XMIT to go into voice transmit, then tap it again to > exit. It doesn’t act like a PTT switch. > > 73, > Wayne > N6KR > > >> On Sep 23, 2017, at 10:52 PM, Dan Presley <n7...@arrl.net> wrote: >> >> I was doing the SOTA ‘S2S’ summit to summit party today from Oregon, and had >> the KX2 going. I almost always do CW, but with little success I switched to >> SSB as there were a few guys on. Don’t believe I’ve ever made a voice Q with >> this rig.. Of course I forgot the mic, but I figured I could use the built >> in one. The problem was that everytime I transmitted (pressing ‘XMIT’) in >> the mode window it would switch to CW and back to USB as I released it.I >> thought it might be the CW in SSB setting, allowing CW to be sent while in >> SSB mode so I changed the menu setting in CW Weight, but it still continued >> to show the same in the mode window. And-never did get a Q. Of course it >> might have been working and they never heard me, but any ideas why that >> might be occurring? Though conditions were lousy I did get to meet N4EX, the >> top SOTA chaser in North America, who I’ve worked before from his home state >> of NC. He was out here visiting his son. To me the KX2 is the perfect SOTA >> radio. >> Dan Presley N7CQR >> n7...@arrl.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 n...@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
[Elecraft] KX2 built in mic
I was doing the SOTA ‘S2S’ summit to summit party today from Oregon, and had the KX2 going. I almost always do CW, but with little success I switched to SSB as there were a few guys on. Don’t believe I’ve ever made a voice Q with this rig.. Of course I forgot the mic, but I figured I could use the built in one. The problem was that everytime I transmitted (pressing ‘XMIT’) in the mode window it would switch to CW and back to USB as I released it.I thought it might be the CW in SSB setting, allowing CW to be sent while in SSB mode so I changed the menu setting in CW Weight, but it still continued to show the same in the mode window. And-never did get a Q. Of course it might have been working and they never heard me, but any ideas why that might be occurring? Though conditions were lousy I did get to meet N4EX, the top SOTA chaser in North America, who I’ve worked before from his home state of NC. He was out here visiting his son. To me the KX2 is the perfect SOTA radio. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Eclipse logistics and em-comm nets?
Just wanted to pass on that today I drove from Ashland to Portland and made it in 4 & 1/2 hrs. The only slowdown was where it’s 2 lane over the hills around Grants Pass where the semis try to pass each other :)) Of course the closer to Monday the worse it’s likely to get, but it may not be that bad. Wayne-depending on where your campground is, you might look at jumping to 99W at Junction City (near Eugene) which runs into Corvallis as opposed to Hwy 20 off of I-5. Up here in Portland there’s so far no ARES mass callout. Some ops were headed to Grant County to assist. I hear lots of folks are bailing out of traveling to the ‘zone’ so it may not be bad. Bend has gas, and there’s actually open spots in Madras. I may bike down to Aurora from Portland with the KX2 and a loop. Also Wayne if you have a chance get peaches and pears in Ashland at a roadside stand-you’ll never regret it and the best survival food :)) See y’all on 40 and/or 20 on Monday. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net > On Aug 18, 2017, at 5:30 PM, Phil Kane <k2...@kanafi.org> wrote: > > On 8/18/2017 11:57 AM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: > >> The local telephone services are installing many hundreds of portable >> "towers" to augment the regular cell towers. Even so, I won't be >> surprised if Wayne is correct: Amateur Radio may be the most reliable >> communications system. > > Those of us who know better know that no matter how many other COWS > (Cellsites-On-Wheels) are deployed, there's a finite number of circuits > that the landline switch can handle. I don't see them bringing in any > extra switches! > > Two major VHF/UHF clubs with repeaters all up and down the state are > linking all their machines, and the various county ARES units are on > standby to relay overflow requests for 9-1-1 assistance, as will be > state and local HF ARES units. Net control for this gigantic net will > be at Washington County Sheriff's Office -- which is NOT co-located with > the 9-1-1 Center. My ARES deployment is supposed to be at the 9-1-1 > Center (Washington County Consolidated Communications Agency) but > because of mobility limitations I will be standing by at home to do > cross-systems relays if necessary. > > One activity that has not received much attention in ham-dom is that > during the eclipse the ionospheric D-layer will disappear as it does at > night, and AM Broadcast signals will propagate as DX for an hour or so. > FCC Rules prohibit AM stations with different daytime and nighttime > parameters to operate nighttime with daytime parameters but this is one > exception (another is during a mandated FCC inspection). It's going to > be interesting. > > 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane > > Member, Washington County, OR > Emergency Communications Team > ARES/RACES AEC for Training > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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] KX2 preamp
I was out this weekend doing the Bumblebee QRP contest (lousy conditions here in PNW!) and a couple of times I noticed that the preamp switched itself off. First time I thought I bumped the switch but it actually did it 2 more times. I was running 5W cw to a magloop carefully tuned to resonance as best I could tell. I’ve used this same setup a bunch and never had that happen before-any thoughts? Thanks. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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] KX 2 quick memories
Could use some help on storing/recalling the quick memories for the KX2. Whenever I try to start the procedure by holding down the STORE key it reverts to an already stored 'number' memory (e.g.5) and doesn't allow me to store the current VFO A into a quick memory. Any thoughts? Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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] KX2 and W4OP loop
Hi guys-just wanted to report that I had a fun weekend using the KX2 and my new W4OP loop outdoors. First was Saturday on the 7QP party, and managed some contacts all around the country on 20 M before I got frozen out..today was warmer and I did a SOTA activation (W70/WV-138 Skyline Ridge) and knocked off 12 quick Q’s on 20 and 40. Particularly on 20 I snagged stations midwest and southeast with really strong signals. Don’t let anyone tell you the bands are dead-just have some patience. All 5W and I had the loop on a camera tripod up about 6 feet. They take patience to tune but I was down around 1:5/1.I will say that little speaker in the KX2 does a fine job outdoors-there was a group of us,otherwise I’d use phones.To me this is what it’s all about…! Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Equipment chat group
I strongly disagree with starting another forum-there’s already plenty.And-a number of other forums I subscribe to go ‘way farther off than this one. Do us all a favor-don’t divide the knowledge. Eric and Wayne do a fine job moderating. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net > On May 1, 2017, at 9:26 AM, Ron D'Eau Claire <r...@cobi.biz> wrote: > > I've been around this reflector for 17 years - so far - and this issue has > come up many, many times. > > Here are the guidelines Eric posted most recently: > > "The PRIMARY purposes of this list are to provide a -polite- and enjoyable > forum for discussing Elecraft products, share mods, new ideas, feedback to > Elecraft, share experiences using our products, troubleshooting ideas etc. > > "The Elecraft email list server (reflector) is provided to further the > discussion of Elecraft products and related items. It serves as a forum for > the discussion of both technical and operating topics including product > features, construction and debug problems, sharing your enthusiasm and > impressions from using our products and more general ham radio related > topics of interest to our customers. > > "(Please -strongly- resist the urge to reply to an OT topic once it has gone > to 5 posts. Once it hits ten posts do not reply at all (go off list if you > feel the urge to continue.) Also, please do not try to always get the 'last > word'.." > > -- > > Note there is no prohibition of OT topics, only that the number of posts be > kept down. And he specifically makes provision for "... general ham radio > related topics of interest..." > > 73, Ron AC7AC > > -Original Message- > From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of > Michael Walker > Sent: Monday, May 1, 2017 8:12 AM > To: EricJ; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Equipment chat group > > Hi Eric > > Actually, it doesn't go in in other forums to this extent. And, when it > does, it is shut down. This forum is the wild wild west. :) > > I posted a list of all the forums I am a member of, and they are all focus > on their charter. > > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Experiences using a portable HF loop
Eddie-I have both the AlexLoop and the W4OP loop and enjoy using them both in the right situations. It takes some patience to tune but I’ve worked a fair amount of both domestic and dx with these loops. The AlexLoop is best on 20 and higher, and I use an inexpensive Vivitar tripod VIV-VPT-1250 and it works fine to elevate the loop, and is super lightweight. I use the loops on SOTA outings especially if there’s no easy way to put up a wire. They can be as effective as a vertical in the right environment and a lot easier to put up. They also exhibit some directivity an as they can be rotated to null noise or unwanted signals out. One more nice trick in the antenna bag. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net > On Apr 21, 2017, at 6:24 PM, Eddy Avila <k6...@hotmail.com> wrote: > > Greetings all, I'm curious to hear from anyone using a portable HF magnetic > loop. I've read the theory behind them so I'd like to hear your opinion about > them? How efficient these antennas are, especially running qRP. > > > Thanks all, > > > 73 > > > ed > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] EFHW
I also wanted to thank Frank for a great suggestion.He hit it right on the nose. I always forget about the usefulness of an RF ammeter. When I was a kid in the ’60’s hanging around the OT’s a couple of them used these in the open wire lines to tune for maximum current. No concern of SWR as that wasn’t important with pi and linked outputs in your tube rigs! Now I just have to figure out a way to do this in the field…I still have some wonderful Weston meters one of the guys gave me lo those many years ago. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net > On Feb 12, 2017, at 10:45 AM, donov...@starpower.net wrote: > > Dan's original post concerned the effectiveness and practicality > of various EFHW configurations in a man pack environment. > Since he had already decided that his radiating element will > be 1/2 wavelength long, the primary concern is power transfer > efficiency vs. practicality of the solution in a weight and space > constrained man pack environment. > > > For the entire history of radio, RF ammeters have been used to > evaluate the efficiency of alternative matching systems and their > associated radial/counterpoise systems. An RF ammeter could > be placed in Dan's EFHW antenna -- ideally in the center -- to > compare the relative performance of practical man pack EFHW > implementations. > > > 73 > Frank > W3LPL > > > - Original Message - > > From: "Don Wilhelm" <donw...@embarqmail.com <mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com>> > To: "Wes Stewart" <wes_n...@triconet.org <mailto:wes_n...@triconet.org>>, > elecraft@mailman.qth.net <mailto:elecraft@mailman.qth.net> > Sent: Sunday, February 12, 2017 6:29:07 PM > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] EFHW > > Wes, > > I do not doubt what you are saying about 1/2 wave verticals, but most > EFHW antennas are mounted as a sloper or a horizontal antenna. > > For portable operation, the main concern is for the ability to feed the > antenna, and not about maximizing the far field strength. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > > On 2/12/2017 12:34 PM, Wes Stewart wrote: >> Alas, if only this was true. >> >> Google "radial system design and efficiency in hf verticals" and you >> should get a cached version of Rudy Severns' paper of the same name. In >> it he states: >> >> "Alternately we can graph efficiency in terms of Ga as shown in figures >> 3 and 4. Unfortunately this also shows how inefficient verticals are >> even over very good ground. Very depressing! For example, with very good >> soil (0.02/30) and 128 1/2-wave radials, the efficiency of a 1/4-wave >> vertical is still only -2.76 dB (53%)!" > __ > 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 donov...@starpower.net <mailto:donov...@starpower.net> > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > <http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft> > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm <http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm> > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net <mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net> > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net <http://www.qsl.net/> > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > <http://www.qsl.net/donate.html> > Message delivered to n7...@arrl.net <mailto:n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] EFHW
I wanted to thank everyone who commented on this thread. I felt an obligation to wrap it up since I ‘poked the hornet’s nest’ :)) I did get some good information and some interesting comments. It’s always fascinating to see how things morph from the original post.One thing I did realize is that there still is some confusion over what is an end fed halfwave; a fair amount of folks conflate an end fed wire of any length with a resonant half wave. While it’s true that a resonant half wave may be a non resonant random wire at bands other than it was made, that’s not exactly a useful premise for my needs. So-in the interest of closure I’ll post the original question in the clearest fashion I can and ask that any thoughts on this please email me directly and if i get some good responses I’ll post to the list so we can all have that to enjoy. I also want to keep it Elecraft related as best I can. ,Ok-here’s what I’m asking: Think about a SOTA (summits on the air) outing where I’m hiking to activate a summit and the goal is to travel light. ‘Ounces are pounds’ as the saying goes.Radios are either a KX 3 or KX 2 both with autotuners. I have a number of options I use already including resonant dipoles; verticals and loops, and I plan to continue to use these as conditions require. You never know what’s the best option until you’re actually at the site..One other option is either an end fed random wire with a counterpoise (length selected to avoid a resonant quarter or half wave-there’s charts out there to help select good lengths) or an end fed (resonant) halfwave cut to resonate at the desired band. Think say, 66 feet for 40M give or take. Now-when I use a non resonant random length wire I feed it directly off the radio (BNC-binding post adaptor). With a resonant halfwave I would (and have) used a 9:1 transformer, coax (variable length) and perhaps a common mode choke, and perhaps a short counterpoise. Between just those two antennas is there any advantage to using the resonant halfwave over the random length wire? Is there more gain? Better takeoff angle? More lobes ? Would this justify packing the extra stuff for the resonant halfwave? I’m guessing a lot will depend on terrain/height,etc so may be hard to answer, but that’s the question, and that only. I imagine efficiency may be a factor, but if I can eliminate a transformer,feed line,and choke and feed directly to the radio that should help eliminate some losses. So-it isn’t about how to build/buy an EFHW; what to use at a home station,etc. It’s just this one question. Like i said-I have a few good answers but curious if there’s something I’m missing about the EFHW over the random length antenna. Thanks everyone, and I hope we all can get out and enjoy our great rigs as much as possible. The KX 2 is the radio I’ve been dreaming about for a long.long time and now I have one... Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net > On Feb 9, 2017, at 4:03 PM, Kevin - K4VD <ke...@k4vd.net> wrote: > > Thanks Scott. I use the Par EndFedZ EF-10/20/40 and EF-20/40 depending on > what's in the bag at the moment. These are resonant and I'm assuming the > KX3 tuner is enough to keep the SWR low. The radio always seems happy. > > I will add up to 8 feet of wire next time out and try some A/B tests. > > During this thread there's been a couple of comments that kind of challenge > my way of thinking. I would never have thought a random wire would be > considered superior to a resonant antenna. I also don't equated high SWR > with high loss. My home antenna is comprised of a dipole fed with 600 ohm > ladder line through a 4:1 BALUN. It's about the best antenna setup I've > ever had and I use it on all bands 80 (where it is resonant) through 6. The > KX3 and the Flex tunes it nicely and the log fills up. > > Threads like this get me questioning everything I thought I knew. That's > not a bad thing. > > Kev K4VD > > On Thu, Feb 9, 2017 at 5:37 PM, K9MA <k...@sdellington.us > <mailto:k...@sdellington.us>> wrote: > >> On 2/9/2017 16:28, Kevin - K4VD wrote: >> >>> I work portable with about 1 ft of coax to my end-fed. Never really had a >>> problem making contacts. Guess I could do a lot better with a longer coax >>> or with a counterpoise? >>> >>> Kev - K4VD >>> >> It wouldn't hurt to add a counterpoise of 6-8 feet, just a single wire on >> the ground opposite the antenna, but it may not make much difference. (I'm >> assuming EFHW, not random or quarter wave wire.) That short coax, the >> radio, the headphone cable, etc. is probably serving as an adequate >> counterpoise. You definitely do NOT want a longer coax, unless there's a >> matching network at the feedpoint to keep the SWR low. Even then, the long
[Elecraft] Fwd: EFHW
Ahh-the wisdom of Ron AC7AC always wins out!Leave it to an Oregonian... I think he’s right-the less elements you have in the way the better. I’ve used the random length antenna with a counterpoise (preferably elevated) with good results with the KX 3 and 2. I connect it to a dual binding post/bnc adaptor available from various sources including Elecraft. I’ve been hearing a lot about the EFHW but not convinced it’s a major improvement over the random length wire,plus you have to have the transformer,likely still some counterpoise and typically some coax-more chance for losses and more to pack. Actually my favorite antenna for home and portable use is a doublet fed with open wire line, although it’s not as practical in the SOTA world-think light and compact. If I have a choice I like to set this up as an inverted Vee on the edge of a cliff and you gain a great deal of low angle takeoff and gain. I was taught that trick a while back by Russ Carpenter back in the old Adventure Radio days. I used it to good effect in the McKenzie River valley in Oregon.As always I’ll continue to experiment-it’s been fun over the last 40 plus years of portable ops in our great NW. I started back in the ’70’s hauling my Century 21 and Ten Tec Argosy with a 6V lantern battery in the woods up by Timothy Lake by Mt.Hood. Then I discovered this club called Norcal and the great kits they were doing. So-I started building with the NC-40, Sierra,SST, etc. Guess who the designers were-some guys named Eric and Wayne :)) Great rigs to say the least, and then I heard they started this little company ..many rigs and adventures later I’m still taking their gear into the Oregon woods and having a blast, and still experimenting. So-I’m still open to discussion on ideas. Right now I have my old ‘gusher’ super lightweight dipoles from the New Jersey qrp club;the AlexLoop,W4OL loop, random length wires and even a still useful W6MMA vertical that I keep in my bag of antenna tricks. Wish I could haul my home antenna out-a nice variation of a delta loop fed with open wire line through the old venerable Johnson matchbox. Now I’m just waiting for the pineapple express (local term for a warm deluge of rain) to end so I can start getting out in the woods and mountains.Us Oregonians are a bit different :)) Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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] EFHW clarification
Thanks for the replies so far. Just to clarify-I plan to use the built in auto tuners in my KX2 and 3, so hopefully they can handle the job. I already have a good 9:1 transformer which should work. The primary question is the advantage to the EFHW as opposed to a true random length (not a halfwave at desired freq) with a counterpoise. It sounds like the high current point is a quarter wave from the feedpoint which could be an advantage from the random length. I’ve also seen a variety of ideas on the proper length of coax to use with an EFHW, which as I understand will act as a counterpoise. I now have one of the nice lightweight SOTA poles which would be good with whatever wire I go with. Waiting for some decent weather in the Pacific NW :)) Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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] EFHW
Wanted to get some thoughts from folks about pros and cons of an end fed half wave for portable/SOTA use, as opposed to just using a random length wire with a counterpoise connected directly to either the KX2 or 3.(I think Eric recommended somewhere around 28’ depending on the band coverage).Is there any particular gain advantage? To me the only obvious advantage is not having to deploy a counterpoise-with the end fed usually the length of coax will act for this, and of course the need for a suitable Un-Un,usually 9:1. My preferred antennas these days are lightweight resonant dipoles, which is fine assuming you have room to erect them, and second is a magnetic loop which I’ve had good luck with. I use the Alexloop-very light and easy to set up;ground and height independent generally. But-since you never quite know what will work best I try to be ready for whatever comes up. I have a variety of lightweight poles to use with wires. I’ve had pretty good luck with throwing a random length in a tree or pole with a counterpoise, usually elevated if possible.The auto tuners in the elecraft rigs are excellent in my book. I think over the years I’ve used a bunch of portable antennas except the EFHW-just curious what the advantages might be. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] {OT} Alexloop Walkham Antenna
Hi Stan-and list. I've used the Alexloop for the past 2 years and overall am very pleased with it. I primarily use it for portable use particularly SOTA, and with my newly acquired KX2 it makes the best portable combination I've ever had for speed and ease of setup. I used mine on a SOTA activation a few weeks back and in 1& 1/2 hrs I worked 25 Q's in 14 states and New Zealand. Propagation was iffy so I had to be patient, and this was all on 20 CW at 5W. Tuning is very sharp so it takes some getting used to, and you need to elevate it at least 5 Ft above ground for good results. I use a cheap camera tripod or sometimes a portable music stand base (like a Manhasset, for those who know what that is!). You want to get it a few feet away from you and tuning at first may seem tricky but after a bit I can get really close just by tuning to band noise. Sometimes I use the little IP60 antenna analyzer that Buddipole sells which is handy but you can do well with the KX2 or 3 SWR ind icator. I figure I can have my station up and running in less than 5 minutes. I also have a variety of end fed wires, Buddipole, lightweight dipoles, etc for all situations but they all take time to set up, so the Alexloop wins out because it's light and quick, and works pretty darn well on the upper bands especially. One of my buddies just picked up the Alpha loop at a hamfest which looks very similar so we plan to have a shootout soon to see if there's any difference between the 2-I suspect they're very similar. He got a hamfest deal on his so if that's an option that's a good way to go. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net On Jul 12, 2016, at 1:23 PM, stan levandowski wrote: > I would like to correspond with anyone who has experience using the Alexloop > antenna with 1-2 watts. > > Normally, I use either an end fed antenna and a T1, a resonant linked dipole, > or a resonant Par HF Omni-Angle (for 20 and 17 meters). They all work quite > well for their intended use but require some effort to erect. > > > I have been reading about the Alexloop Walkham for at least the last two > years. It would present some distinct advantages to me and the reviews seem > to be overwhelmingly positive. > > > My concern is that while I have a KX2 for my home station, I only take my LNR > five band Mountain Topper out on my portable jaunts. On a 9 volt transistor > battery, I get a bit over 1 watt; on 12 volts I get 2.5 watts. > > > My specific interest is in finding out as much as I can about how this small > Alexloop performs at such low power levels since its efficiency is reported > to be about 7% on 40 meters, rising to about 25% on 20 meters. > > > An email to Alex has gone unanswered for the last two days. > > > Thanks and 73 from Stan WB2LQF > > > > __ > 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 n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] Field Day Fun Killers
Yes-I was just down the road from you Kevin at Stub Stewart state park. Set up with the KX2 and the Alexloop for a minimalist station. I only had a short time hand conditions were't very good, but I managed to work a few guys around the country mostly on 20. Only signal on 15 was a KH6 but nabbed him easy with 5 W. The KX2 is perfect for this type of operation. Also, as you said weather was perfect :) Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net On Jun 28, 2016, at 8:31 PM, kev...@coho.net wrote: > In the Coast Range on Sunday it rose to a scorching 77 degrees! > > FD in the PNW :) > > 73, > > Kevin. KD5ONS > > > On 6/28/2016 8:04 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: >> Come to the Pacific Northwest coast. High temps this time of the year are >> generally in the 60's, never above 70, and no bugs. >> >> 73, Ron AC7AC >> >> -Original Message- >> From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of w7aqk >> Sent: Tuesday, June 28, 2016 7:59 AM >> To: Elecraft Reflector >> Subject: [Elecraft] Field Day Fun Killers >> >> Hi All, >> >> I have always considered Field Day to be the most enjoyable "event" of the >> year. Unfortunately, this year I was unable to participate "in the field" >> as I am busy getting ready for a long trip. Otherwise, I would have been >> out there with the rest of you. >> >> Long ago I determined that there were two things that could ruin Field Day >> for me--excessive heat and bugs (no, not the Vibroplex kind!). If I can't >> avoid both, I usually don't go! When I was living in "The South", both >> could be a problem. Here in the desert, it's the heat issue that I mainly >> have to deal with. Fortunately, there is a good choice of "high ground" >> nearby, so that problem is solvable. Since there typically isn't a lot of >> water nearby, the bug problem is usually minimized as well. >> >> My hat is most definitely off to those of you who can endure either or both >> of my "Field Day Fun Killers". Most of you who do that are probably east of >> the Rockies. I remember Field Days where the seemingly most important >> pieces of equipment were fans! The problem is that most of the time all >> those did was blow hot air around! High temperatures plus high humidity is >> a tough combination to combat. It doesn't take long before you wish you >> could take a shower--but you probably can't! It even makes grabbing a >> little shut eye difficult. >> >> Fighting the bug problem can be a bit easier, but takes some advance >> planning. My Field Day kit includes a large canopy of mosquito netting that >> can be suspended from most anything overhead, like a tree branch. A >> tent-like canopy with netting works too, but isn't always as convenient to >> locate. Fully enclosed tents tend to trap heat, so those don't always work >> well either. >> >> Planning for Field Day can be a year long event, particularly for larger >> groups. However, even the smaller operations need to start making a list >> early! Your "fun killer" list may not be the same as mine, but whatever it >> includes, you should consider early on how to deal with it. Starting the >> process now, while the problems are fresh in your mind, is probably one of >> the best things you can do. >> >> I've been reading a lot of complaints about high heat in the reports that >> have been posted so far. That's always a problem, but it just seems like it >> was more so this year. Even Wayne Burdick commented about some very high >> temperatures in his area, and I think this may be a sign of the times. I'm >> getting too old to have that kind of dedication. Here in my area it was >> well into the 100's down low, but in the 70's higher up. I will always opt >> for "up", even if I have to drive a bit further. Besides, there are trees >> up there! >> >> Again, I greatly admire the dedication that many (if not most) of you gave >> to this year's effort. However, I have to wonder if participating in those >> 5A/6A or higher groups, who's location choices are perhaps much more >> limited, is really worth it. Have you considered a 1A, or 2A operation in a >> much more hospitable location? The food may not be quite as good, but the >> experience can be well worth it! I know, it's often a "club thing", and >> that may well overrule all other concerns. However, you still might want to >> try it at least once--you might like it! For many
[Elecraft] KX 2 cheat sheet?
I know it's new, but has anyone had a chance to work up a little 'cheat sheet' for the KX 2? Thanks-love this rig. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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
Re: [Elecraft] KX2 utility for mac?
Thanks Phil-obviously it's working fine as is so no worries. The only other thing I noticed is that when using cw there's something between a click and a small thump in the headphones at the start of each element. I seem to recall this was an issue in the KX3 and there was a simple adjustment in the menu, but can't recall it at the moment. Not audible on the speaker, and same with different phones.Ring any bells with anyone? Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.net On Jun 5, 2016, at 2:08 PM, Phil Wheeler wrote: > Not yet. But my two Macs are dual-boot with Win 10 and BootCamp. > > I expect we'll have a Mac utility "any day now" :-) > > Phil W7OX > > On 6/5/16 1:51 PM, Dan Presley wrote: >> Does anyone know if the KX2 utility program is available for Macs? I only >> see a windows version on the software page. Alternatively-can I use the KX3 >> utility program for the 2? Thanks. >> >> Dan Presley N7CQR >> n7...@arrl.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 w...@socal.rr.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] KX2 utility for mac?
Does anyone know if the KX2 utility program is available for Macs? I only see a windows version on the software page. Alternatively-can I use the KX3 utility program for the 2? Thanks. Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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] KX2 inaugural qso!
Ok-I bit the bullet and got the last KX2 today from Eric at the Seapac (Oregon) hamfest. I took it home tonight and a bit later I got around to firing it up for an inaugural qso. I was tuning on 40 and heard a clean and fast signal but missed the call the first time, I sent mine and he came right back-FW2JJ dx from Wallis Island! 5W into my delta loop. I think I'm gonna like this little radio-but I already knew that -currently owning K2 #1010 and a KX3...summer SOTA with the loop antenna is coming up. Thanks guys for a wonderful little rig! Dan Presley N7CQR n7...@arrl.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] PL 259's
Everyone has their favorite method, and here's mine from an old ARRL handbook. Before you slip (or actually,screw on) the barrel to the coax, trim the outer jacket and then tin the braid.This works best if you have good quality coax as the braid is thicker:).Then, take a pipe cutter to trim the tinned braid a short distance from the end of the inner dielectric( about 1/16 is fine).Also,before you thread the barrel on, it'll help the heat transfer if you file a bit of the plating off around the holes where you'll solder the braid. By tinning and filing, I can cut the heat/solder time down a fair amount, and have a very good connection.Also, don't forget to tin the center conductor before you thread on the barrel.Another trick for weatherproofing is to fill the voids with vaseline, and then coax seal.Mine have all withstood Oregon rain for many years this way . -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] KXAT1 with dipole
At 7:27 PM -0600 8/23/06, Karl Larsen wrote: Now either of these should be possible for your tuner to tune. Your right the impedance changes between these values and if your very careful you can get close to 50 +j0. But why? Well, I think you answered my question.Changing the feedline length changed the impedance to a value the tuner could handle, which was the original issue.Remember that this is a coax fed antenna, not ladder line (which I have at my home QTH). I know that swr is very high and not an issue with ladder line; that's what I use at home.The tuner is simply a device to allow maximum transfer of power from the transmitter to the feedline. At 9:42 PM -0400 8/23/06, Don Wilhelm wrote: I believe two points need to be made about this: First, if the SWR on the feedline was 1:1, changing the length of the feedline would have no effect. The conclusion is that the original SWR had to have been something other than 1:1. Don- I think you may have missed my original post, where the issue was a high swr when trying to use the tuner on my coax fed dipole. Adding a few feet of RG 174 allowed the tuner to find a match.Neither the tuner nor added feedline changes the true state of the antenna, but only provides the best match between rig and feedline. -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] KXAT1 with dipole
--- You should not have had any trouble with a center fed dipole, Dan. The issue with the KX1 ATU, as with any ATU, is impedance extremes. Because of the limited number of inductors and capacitors that could be fitted into the tiny space available in the KX1, it has a more limited tuning range than any of the other Elecraft tuners. The end of a dipole presents a very high impedance, possibly in the thousands of ohms. At the other extreme, a very short antenna will present a very low impedance, often less than an ohm. Actually, end-fed short antennas often tune up more easily because they are working against ground and typically Hams have lousy RF grounds G. Even with several radials the ground impedance will likely be in the tens or, more likely, the hundreds of ohms. That's in series with the antenna so what the tuner is matching is a total impedance of perhaps a hundred ohms or more. The fraction of an ohm that the antenna represents is just part of the total. It's also why such antennas have a very, very low efficiency: often less than a few percent. In your case, I'd suspect you had an unlucky length of feed line. Unless the SWR is truly 1:1 on that feeder, something that is almost never achieved in practice, the feed line acts like a random impedance transformer. I suspect you got unlucky and the combination of the effect of surrounding objects, antenna length, feeder impedance and feeder length all added up to an impedance the KX1 ATU couldn't handle. Adding a few feet of feed line will usually fix that. Another possibility is a short or open, as you suggested. Ron AC7AC Thanks,Ron and all of those who replied for the good advice. I'm betting you're right on the money as far as feedline length. I'll put the antenna back up and check it with my dipper to see how it reads, and also with the rig in 'cal' (tuner bypass) mode. That'll tell me also if there's a short somewhere too. I tend to forget about the feedline length as I often just use an endfed wire from the KX1, or at home I use ladder line. I know this can still happen with ladder line, but perhaps less of an issue than coax.Besides, the ol' Johnson matchbox is pretty forgiving:) -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] KXAT1 with dipole
Guys, my money is on the connector on the feedline. It must have a short developed since the last time you used it. Or the short might be at the antenna feed point. The feed line length is just not a factor even when there is RF on the shield, and there is some. Sorry Karl-Ron had it exactly right.Feedline length is always a potential factor; I've run into it before and just forgot.Both with coax and ladder line sometimes you have to add or subtract a bit for impedance mismatch. You can look it up in the ARRL handbook In fact, you can even do a fair matching job with ladder line bypassing a tuner with the correct lengths.I added two feet of feedline and it loaded right up sweet as pie. I also should have realized it wasn't a shorted feedline as it still took some power and signal strengths were not hugely different as when there's nothing connected. -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KXAT1 with dipole
I was out in the woods of Oregon today (up by the coast range town of Jewell) with my KX 1 and a few different antennas. I used a long wire for a while, but then for the heck of it I set up a 40M inverted vee with my portable mast. The KXAT1 had no trouble with the long wire (and counterpoises) bringing it right down to 1:1, but no such luck with the dipole ( cut to resonate on 40, and fed w/RG 174).I've used this antenna a bunch w/ the K2 and it's pretty much a 1:1, but when using the KX1 atu I got around 9:5 SWR! So, I promptly forgot how to bypass the tuner (until I got home and re-read the manual;set it to 'CAL':).But,also in the manual it states that it'll match most coax type dipoles, etc.Elsewhere it's stated that it won't match a half wave length,but I wasn't clear if that's only for a half wave end fed.I'll bet it's the same for a resonant dipole as it's a ground independent half wave, but maybe someone who has come up against this before can clarify as far as the tuner is concerned. I usually bring a separate antenna 'dipper' just to check the antenna in case there's a short or bad coax,etc., but that got left behind. Just for reference, I use the lightweight dipole kit from N2CX with a nice sealed center insulator and RG 174 (I know it's not the most efficient, but for a short run it's fine and very lightweight). I'm still trying to find more of the type of wire he used in there-it's springy yet has a great slick and tough coating which holds up well in trees, etc, It's also a light yellow in color so it blends nicely.N2CX quit making these kits a while back and ran out of that wire.The 'Wireman' sells some similar stuff,(524?) but it's still not the same. Any thought appreciated on the tuner-I'm trying to get as much outdoor radio time in before summer ends:) -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Kevin KD5ONS status?
Does anyone know what's up with Kevin,KD5ONS? Last message was he was headed to the hospital.In case you don't know, he started the Elecraft net on Sundays on 40 20. Since I live fairly close (Portland,Or) I could stop by a hospital if he's in town. Thanks for any info-let's keep him in our thoughts. -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 musicians
Sorry if I'm late on thread :) I'm a professional jazz musician (string bass) and have K2 #1010. For the last couple of years I've been able to work a trip to the Seaside (Or) hamfest and help man the Elecraft table along with a performance at a jazz festival down the road (Rockaway Beach).40 M late night (After 11 PM PST:) is my usual haunt. I was able to do a bit of dx'ing a few years back when visiting Sapporro for some concerts, and hope to do that this summer again if we make it to Europe. Our website is http://www.talljazz.com enjoy. -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elk hair caddis KX1
Just had to share with you all some fun I had on Monday. I had a free day, so I thought I'd combine my two favorite hobbies-fly fishing radio. In the fall the weather here in Oregon is perfect, and a good time to fish as the tourists, rafters schoolkids are gone :). I went to the Deschutes river in central Or ( near Maupin, for those who know). It's a world class fly fishing river, and the weather was right at 75 F. So, I fished into the early evening with mixed results (not much rising) and then threw up a wire in the trees along the river to see if I could get some 'rises' on 20M for the Spartan sprint. Here I am in my waders shooting a line in the tree with my slingshot/reel combo, truly 'tree fishing'.The KX1 with the tuner made quick work of a 25' long wire.The bands were hot, and I always forget how noise-free it is away from civilization. So, I got some nice catches on the bands under the stars, if not from the river. Got a little chilly as night fell, but the radio did a great job, and even tuned up the short wire on 40 after 20 died for some more qsos.it doesn't get any better than this! I was thinking about 'wading mobile' this morning; I could use a graphite rod with a wire line, and ground plane would be great as I'm in the water already. Rig the KX1 to my vest...casting for the 'big ones' :) Hey Eric-wouldn't that make a nice ad? :) -- Dan Presley-N7CQR-Portland, Or QRP-L #502 ARS #71 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KX1 fun
Just had to pass on that I was able to get out in the sunshine in Oregon for the Labor day Spartan Sprint with the KX1. The weather was perfect, and conditions on 20 weren't too bad. I was able to work cross country (MD,VA,NJ,NY) as well as the usual stuff from the west coast with just the internal batteries and a long wire tossed up in a tree branch. My total weight was 1.1 pounds-the rig, not me :).Great way to wrap up summer ( though in Or summer is July thru mid October). -- [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.talljazz.com 503-232-8244 Cell 503-701-3871 fax 503-232-4271 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
