Re: [Elecraft] K4 Remote: My QTH vs. a friend's, many miles to the north
Probably a great device, but why would Elecraft risk infringing someone else’s patent and increasing the price of the K4 by an extra $100, rather than letting the individual decide if they need and buy their own? 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 5 May 2024, at 00:36, Jorge Diez - CX6VM wrote: > > Dave > > I am not an engineer and I don't know anything about electronics either, > but I am very receptive to the solutions that many radio friends give me. > > which made me think if the kpa1500 or k4 usb was built with something like > this, > https://www.blackbox.com/en-ca/store/product/detail/USB-to-USB-Isolator-4-kV-1-Port/SP387A > it might be beneficial or not, just thinking out loud > > 73, > Jorge > CX6VM/CW5W __ 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 Remote: My QTH vs. a friend's, many miles to the north
I can’t see where a more robust USB connector would affect remote operation via a LAN cable. Better isolation can be obtained by installing a WiFi dongle. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 4 May 2024, at 17:57, Jorge Diez - CX6VM wrote: > > of course that we need to take care of many things, very good grounding, gas > arrestors, single antenna grounding panel, etc, etc > > but, after my bad experience, I expect that a expensive product that is > designed, in many cases, to be installed remotely, has been, for example on > the USB connector, built with an industrial USB to USB isolator, and not just > a cheap printer´s USB connector > > 73, > Jorge > CX6VM/CW5W __ 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 Remote: My QTH vs. a friend's, many miles to the north
I don’t think you can expect Elecraft to take care of any safety issues, especially with lightning. You could install a remote camera to keep an eye on things, along with smoke detectors and some form of extinguisher, such as those now available for 3D printers. To protect from lightning, you’d need to install antenna switches which can be controlled either automatically or remotely. You also need to install lightning arrestors. Of course all of this won’t prevent damage if you get a direct strike. To internally protect a K4 or any other Elecraft product is just downright impossible. “Acts of God” are just what they are and mostly out of our control. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 4 May 2024, at 17:10, Jorge Diez - CX6VM wrote: > > Wayne > > What worries me is having a very expensive device like a K4 connected in a > remote place, to the antennas, power and internet > > How to avoid damage to the equipment? > > Last week I experienced a lightning strike and the I/O module of my KPA1500 > was damaged, what has Elecraft thought to ensure that the equipment is not > damaged? > > With the remote K3, what was connected to the network was the remoterig, > with the K4 what is connected to the network is a device worth more than > 6000 dollars > > So, since the I/O module does not have sufficient protections, what is > Elecraft's recommendation to protect them? > > thanks, > Jorge > CX6VM/CW5W __ 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 for bargain price on eBay
I can’t find the original ad now, but I’m sure it doesn’t indicate that there are more than 3 toroids. As you’ve bought a kit, I tend to believe you and agree with your comments. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 14 Mar 2024, at 14:51, Gregory Mitchell wrote: > > It's actually 24 pieces of ferrite, not 3, if you read the description. Good > quality ferrite is not cheap and I don't think the markup here is outlandish > at all. at $5/each on avg you'd still spend $120. I recently bought this kit > from them, with free shipping, so I think the cost per toroid/snap-on is > reasonable considering Palomar Engineers gets quality, known ferrite mixes vs > others who you don't know what you are getting. __ 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 for bargain price on eBay
It’s a no-brainer. That ad is for an RFI kit only. My question is: Are 3
toroids and some bits of wire worth $150?
Unless I was severely disabled, blind or exceptionally lazy, I’d be ashamed to
buy that item!
73,
Alan - G4GNX
South Coast UK
Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700
73,
Alan - G4GNX
South Coast UK
Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700
> On 12 Mar 2024, at 13:42, Kurt Pawlikowski wrote:
>
> Petr,
>
> Looking at the only listing for anything "K4," I found this
> <https://www.ebay.com/itm/204318009997?itmmeta=01HRSE265CV1YJX0XQ8K8HAGRW=item2f924d6a8d:g:bzEAAOSwiatkSVBn=enc%3AAQAI0JHSyyPQ1ljDZDKiIlX2UrjAtz%2BoiTfl74GzI6wJx0HUam1ARJ9Bwh9q7x0TfNhQeA1rBlInkrAPU6E2bEy5%2BSblGHLv6flCWtN5k5hLWLjCkWWLRQHSJxN9SxPqwibj0a1qfu%2FDhguwza7YsjNhNg%2Bkwb077Dm%2BxB1bw0i0Yg07EneSyp3Ea5R8f%2FLltGGy0yxXcOP%2Bk5mL8MIlC3Y%2BhHUgH3mpQHc%2Fno6vxRgxpc5WCBkMrdBmxZnke5pMRsQjfYfnjJzJcjKM9PR11H4uavs%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR-jiiK7GYw>.
> If that's what you're looking at, it's an "RFI Kit" for a K4, I don't think
> it includes the K4 itself! {'-)
>
> kurtt WB9FMC
__
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Re: [Elecraft] Big Screen for K4
I’m doing the same with a 34” Samsung TV. I also use a splitter that feeds a 21” Viewsonic touch screen. All from the single K4 HDMI port. Word of warning - use high quality (preferably screened) cables. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 31 Jan 2024, at 01:21, David Bunte wrote: > > Alan - > > I am sure others will weigh in with more detail, but I feed an external > monitor via the HDMI out from the K4D and it can be setup to 'mirror' the > K4D, or to just display the waterfall. If there are more options I don't > recall. > > GL de Dave K9FN > > > On Tue, Jan 30, 2024 at 7:47 PM Alan Geller via Elecraft < > elecraft@mailman.qth.net> wrote: > >> I am in the process of listing my superb K3/P3 in order to purchase a >> K4. I have watched Eric’s >> Videos demoing the K4 and there is always a large screen display connected >> to the K4. I planned >> To keep my K4 setup clean and simple but the plethora of 24 inch TV’s on >> sale for under $100 >> Is speaking to me. >> So, I even think this is a dumb question, but if the std “video” port >> on the back panel of the K4 can >> Use a std cable to a TV set vs a “Monitor”, does the basic digital video >> mirror the front panel display? >> Thanks for any help. >> >> Alan/K6AD __ 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] KAT-500 + KPA-500 / SWR Thresholds
Why battle against the inevitable, rather than use a band that’s more appropriate for the time of day? Unless of course, all bands are dead - then we’re all screwed. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 2 Jan 2024, at 15:12, Andy Durbin wrote: > > > "Presumably it has some very sophisticated detection that can tell if a > frequency is in use?" > > My auto trainer function is only used on 160 m and 80 m and only during the > day when I expect the bands to be dead and as confirmed by the panadapter. > It doesn't need a detection system any more sophisticated than a mark one > eyeball. > > My problem on 160 and 80 is not that I will cause QRM. My problem is > radiating a signal strong enough to make a QSO. > > Andy, k3wyc __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KAT-500 + KPA-500 / SWR Thresholds
I did not say that you can’t train in manual mode. I said AUTO should only be used for training - not for normal operation. I really hope that your one button push takes account of other users on the band when you’re training. Presumably it has some very sophisticated detection that can tell if a frequency is in use? 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 >> On 2 Jan 2024, at 02:33, Andy Durbin wrote: >> >> "One thing I forgot. The KAT500 should only be in AUTO mode when you’re >> actually training it." >> >> Training a KAT500 does not require it to be in AUTO mode. I NEVER put my >> KAT500 in AUTO mode and I can auto train a complete band with one button >> push. >> >> Andy, k3wyc >> > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KAT-500 + KPA-500 / SWR Thresholds
Jeff, One thing I forgot. The KAT500 should only be in AUTO mode when you’re actually training it. i.e. You tune the radio to a frequency, then TX (in TUNE mode) and wait for the KAT500 to stop clicking. ISTR that when a solution is found, the KAT500 TUNE light goes off and the solution is stored automatically. Then you move to the next segment in the band. There’s a chart in the manual which gives recommended segments for each tuning solution per band. If you’re not happy with the 1st solution, you can force a finer tune by pressing the TUNE button immediately after it stops tuning the 1st time. For normal operation the KAT500 should always be in MANUAL mode. If the antenna system changes (rain etc.,) you can force a retune at any time and it will be stored. If you can get hold of a copy of Fred Cady’s book on the KAT500/KPA500, you’ll find it useful reading and IMO it explains things slightly better than the standard manuals. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 2 Jan 2024, at 00:46, Jeff Wandling wrote: > > Thanks. That's good detail. I'll recheck the manual once more. I made a > common mistake of assuming too much and not reading enough. I have > tremendous respect and faith in the engineering put into the system of the > Elecraft line.. That's a long way of saying, It works brilliantly. > > I just want to avoid a mistake in where the ATU-500 and KPA-500 are trying to > resolve a tune whilst the CW spews forth. > > This comment and the prior comment about the Kenwood aspect (and related > command-set mentioned) are interesting. Thanks. > > Aside from all that -- when folks here use the "SWR Thresholds" and use the > K3+KAT+KPA chain via Aux Serial data sharing -- what do you use for the three > metrics in SWR Thresholds? > > There's a KPA Inhibit SWR, Re-tune SWR and Bypass SWR value. The > recommended values in the manuals seem frightfully high for my nerves to > handle. > > Any advice on *that* would be welcomed. > > HNY, Thanks. > > --- > 73, Jeff W7BRS > https://blog.w7brs.com > > > > On Monday, January 1st, 2024 at 4:37 PM, G4GNX wrote: > > >> AFAICR the manual says that if an AUX cable is connected between the KAT500 >> and the radio, the KAT500 will follow any frequency/band change and if a >> tuning solution has already been stored for that frequency/band it will be >> employed before the radio goes into TX. In other words, whilst the radio is >> still in RX mode. >> >> However, elsewhere in the manual it says that when the KAT500 receives RF, >> it will also pickup the nearest tuning solution, which is a fail-safe action >> in case the KAT500 does not receive data from the radio, for any reason. >> >> This is only if the radio is a K3, K3S or K4 and if a KPA500 is in use, RF >> from it is sent to the KAT500 but the AUX cable must be connected AFTER the >> KAT500. i.e. K3———KAT500———KPA500. >> >> I make no comment about using the KAT500 with a Kenwood (or other) rig. >> >> 73, >> Alan - G4GNX >> South Coast UK >> Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 __ 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] KAT-500 + KPA-500 / SWR Thresholds
AFAICR the manual says that if an AUX cable is connected between the KAT500 and the radio, the KAT500 will follow any frequency/band change and if a tuning solution has already been stored for that frequency/band it will be employed before the radio goes into TX. In other words, whilst the radio is still in RX mode. However, elsewhere in the manual it says that when the KAT500 receives RF, it will also pickup the nearest tuning solution, which is a fail-safe action in case the KAT500 does not receive data from the radio, for any reason. This is only if the radio is a K3, K3S or K4 and if a KPA500 is in use, RF from it is sent to the KAT500 but the AUX cable *must* be connected AFTER the KAT500. i.e. K3———KAT500———KPA500. I make no comment about using the KAT500 with a Kenwood (or other) rig. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 1 Jan 2024, at 21:56, Andy Durbin wrote: > > "> How does your KAT500 know what frequency to use? Does it have a serial > data interface or does it depend only on the internal RF counter? >> > > W7BRS> AUX cable between K3 to KAT-500 and KAT-500 to KPA-500. They are in > serial communication per Elecraft protcol(s), whatever those are. > >> What KAT500 mode (AUTO, MAN, BYP) is selected when you observe this anomaly? > > W7BRS> Per manual for KAT-500/KPA-500 the stated "nominal" mode is MAN. So I > leave the KAT-500 in MAN *after* tuning the antenna to 1.1." > > Your problem sounded a bit like the conflict between serial data frequency > and RF count when operating near a "bin" boundary. However, my only > experience with that problem is with Kenwood rigs using serial data to > provide frequency to KAT500. I have no experience with AUXBus. > > For Kenwood owners one solution was to use the FDT command to desensitize the > RF counter so serial data frequency always had priority. The command > description implies it is equally applicable to AUXBus so may be worth > experimenting. > > "FDT Frequency Counter Distance for Retune > GET format: FDT; > SET/RESPONSE format: FDT nn; where nn is the distance, in kHz, between the > current ATU frequency and the most recent TX frequency count for the ATU to > change ATU settings to the new frequency. The value is between 0 (interpreted > as the default of 10 kHz) thru 65535, which disables ATU tuning based on > frequency count. This is intended for customers that prefer the KAT500 only > follow the frequency provided by a serial port command or the K3/K3S/K4 > AUXBUS, or select a minimum distance between current ATU frequency and a > newly counted frequency. > FDT was introduced in firmware version 01.99." > > Andy, k3wyc __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] User's Dilemma
AFAIK, ML have never officially repaired Elecraft products. You may be confusing them with Waters & Stanton. W were the main UK agents for Elecraft when the K4 was about to be launched, but IMO their projected prices were far too high, especially for the internal tuner. AFAIK W lost their only (Elecraft) qualified engineer, ISTR sometime around when they moved premises and merged with other companies. The move may be the reason for the engineer not going with them. They never recovered their facility and although they were still advertising Elecraft products (K4 included) they didn’t appear to have any, only old stock. I can’t remember whether it was Wayne or Eric who announced a short while back that some negotiations were taking place with Moonraker. You’d have to ask them for progress news. The VAT situation in the UK for overseas repairs is an absolute farce, but nobody seems to have the inclination, time or money to take on a government department, knowing that they would most likely not win. I don’t use my internal xverter in my K3S much either and as it’s not easily transferable to the K4, I’ll be selling it as part of the K3S/P3. I wouldn’t be sending my K3S across the pond for a rotary encoder either. Fortunately, I have quite an advantage in that I’ve been a service engineer and programmer in the past for major companies selling various unrelated products and I have an SMD workstation and anti-static facility, so I have no real worries about carrying out my own repairs. I guess the most difficult part is obtaining obscure components. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 15 Dec 2023, at 15:07, Richard Corfield wrote: > > I thought ML serviced Elecraft in the UK. Sad that that's gone. My > experience with my KX3 was to send it to America. This was pre-Brexit, so... > > It was sent to America for repair of a rotary encoder and addition of the > 2m module back in 2019. This was a paperwork nightmare as I had to export > it as goods for repair, and it had to come back with the right paperwork to > connect it to my export in order that I don't pay import duties and taxes > on over £1000 worth of radio! I had to find the original receipt from the > original owner so that Elecraft on returning it could be sure to prove that > tax had been paid on the radio in the UK. The paperwork I filled in is > designed for goods export for sale, and I ended up writing on it in large > letters something like TEMPORARY EXPORT FOR REPAIR. > > It came back I think without the 2m module installed (my emails to UPS are > about it having a significant part missing), though it looks like I may > have paid VAT on that (I can find a VAT bill for £85 which implies an item > cost of £425 which would be the repair, parts, 2m module and shipping > > It was sent to repair in Italy for uniting with the 2m module and > calibration. We were in the EU at the time so this was easy. I imagine the > experience now we are out of the EU would be like the experience I had > sending to America. > > In retrospect I've not used the 2m module that much. I'll have to get out > for more UKAC contests with it, but family is keeping me very busy at the > moment. I think the filter module would be a good purchase for my use of > the radio for CW. > > The rotary encoder failed again, and I repaired it myself this time. It was > easier to risk my repair skills on a >£1000 radio than go through that > shipping/customs polava again. The original repair with Elecraft did allow > for the radio to be thoroughly checked over and any other needed updates to > be made, which was good. > > - Richard > __ 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: The 4-track mind
I had considered that. 藍藍 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 14 Dec 2023, at 17:47, Rick NK7I wrote: > > Or the reverse, as any spouse can affirm hi hi. > > 73, > Rick nk7i > > > On 12/14/2023 5:09 AM, G4GNX wrote: >> The human mind (when trained) can be quite adept at selective listening. __ 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: The 4-track mind
Sounds like Bob Milne has two brains, or perhaps he’s using left and right side for the same purpose. He’d certainly give so-called AI a run for its money. Remarkable. Well done with the harmonica and guitar. I’ve seen it done but not tried it myself, mainly because I’m abysmal with a guitar. 藍 Another guy I’ve seen perform an odd feat was the late, great Jackie Brown, who was obviously listening to some guy playing an electronic keyboard and must have heard a wrong phrase. Jackie walked over to the console, leaned over the back and proceeded to play the piece “upside down” and in the same key, remarking “that’s how it actually goes!” With your discrimination, it seems you might get an extra duty as a tuner. 藍 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 14 Dec 2023, at 03:01, Wayne Burdick wrote: > >> >> On Dec 13, 2023, at 5:58 PM, G4GNX > <mailto:g4...@g4gnx.com>> wrote: >> >> C’mon Wayne, what’s your take on all of this? > > First, I think Bob Milne (subject of the podcast) is in a class by himself. > He's able to virtually play back the audio of up to 4 symphonies with > different keys and tempos in his head, simultaneously, and when queried at a > random time, report where each of them is in the score +/- one second. He > also has a very sophisticated "chunking" method for different > major/minor/seventh/etc. keys, remembers pieces after hearing them once, and > can visualize musicians in great detail while they're playing in his internal > performance hall. This is superhuman by any definition. > > My personal best in this regard is to play harmonica and guitar at the same > time on "Heart of Gold." Oh, and during Field Day one year, I discriminated > two CW signals that were at virtually the same pitch and amplitude using only > phase information. For the latter feat I was awarded an extra pizza ration by > my temporarily stunned co-pilot. > > 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 arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT: The 4-track mind
Actually with Theatre Pipe organs (as opposed to trackers) the key press to pipe speaking is almost instantaneous except with some bass pipes which are naturally a bit slow - it takes some time for sound to travel the length of a 16’ or (worse) 32’ pipe, or if a particular magnet is a bit reluctant to operate. The real problem is where the pipe chambers are situated a long way from the console. The worst one I played was in the Sutton Plaza (UK) which had a delay of over 2 seconds. The only way to deal with it is to close your mind to the sound and rely on your inner clock to get your timing right when playing rhythmical pieces. A bit like listening to a QSO that’s buried in the noise. The human mind (when trained) can be quite adept at selective listening. Many Theatre Organs also have a piano attached and that can be just as disconcerting if the piano’s a long way from the organ console. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 14 Dec 2023, at 11:22, David Wilcox wrote: > > I think you have forgotten the fact that there is a pause between when the > pipe organist presses a key and the sound actually happens. Add that to all > the things mentioned previously. I tried it once while talking to a pipe > organ student at my college… very discomfiting. At least to a piano student. > > Dave K8WPE > > David J. Wilcox’s iPad > __ 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: The 4-track mind
Thanks for the kind words David. I too like Ragtime, especially Joplin. You have some great Theatre Organists in the USA. If you fancy a good concert sometime, keep an eye out for Dave Wickerham, Walt Strony and Clark Wilson. There are many more, but I’ve used enough bandwidth already. C’mon Wayne, what’s your take on all of this? 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 13 Dec 2023, at 21:16, David Haines wrote: > > Thanks for this, Alan. As a pianist who loves ragtime and contrapuntal Bach, > I understand well what you say. I've always been in awe of organists, > especially theatre organists. > > david > > kc1dny __ 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: The 4-track mind
Yeah sight reading too, but it can be a pain. Unless the score is written for Theatre Organ i.e. with 3 staves - the bottom one being the bass line, with only 2 staves (such as a piano score) the pedal work does have to be improvised, whilst sight reading (usually) chords and melody. Sounds like Skip was really proficient at playing the pedals. I find the piano more difficult because it relies on touch and finger pressure to implement expression, whereas the organ usually relies on just selecting notes on the keyboards and using an expression pedal to control volume. There are a couple of sneaky tricks that can be put to good use. 2nd Touch is often used where you press the keys normally and you hear a selection of voices, but pressing the same keys quite hard against spring pressure a further set of different voices will be added. This can sometimes be implemented by the pedals, but it’s not found on many organs. The 2nd ’trick’ is called Sostenuto (invented by the late John Seng) where you lay down a chord on a manual, kick and hold the Sostenuto lever, and the chord is held until the lever is released. This allows you to use the same hand to play single notes on the same manual. I must admit that it’s all impressive to watch, but I find it not so much easy, but quite natural. I do admire the guys who use break-in when conversing in Morse code, just like they were having an (almost) duplex conversation with each other. That’s clever and worth listening to. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 13 Dec 2023, at 19:18, Josh Fiden wrote: > > If you’re playing 2 lines plus pedals AND sight reading it, I’m definitely > impressed! > > Most of the time when I saw Skip play it was R with pretty complex bass > lines requiring both feet and improvising solos. > > I started out as a cellist, anything beyond double stops is a bit mind > boggling to me. Playing guitar now mostly chords & single note lines. Reminds > me I should practice. Ha > > I wonder how much can be developed vs innate ability. At least I’m not tone > deaf.. > > 73 > Josh W6XU > __ 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: The 4-track mind
Here’s a link to the example mentioned in my previous reply. For some reason the Mac decided to send the last one as a video attachment! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yt3S-F2t5ss 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 12 Dec 2023, at 18:51, Josh Fiden wrote: > > Great. Years ago I knew a keyboard player Skip Van Winkle. Saw him play many > times with Dallas Hodge & some of the Tower of Power guys, plus a host of > other incredible players. Besides being quite a character, he would play > rhythm & lead parts on a B3 and kick great bass lines with both feet. And > yes, hold a conversation with you at the same time. > > Distressing to think mastering SO2R contesting may be genetic. > > 73 > Josh W6XU > __ 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: The 4-track mind
I don’t consider myself anywhere near up there with the best, but what you describe is not unusual amongst Theatre Pipe organists. I’m not sure if it’s something we’re born with or whether it’s learned, mainly by practice. The organist will often be playing 2 manuals (keyboards) at the same time, as well as running a bass line with one or both feet, alternating using the right foot from the bass pedals to one of several expression pedals (volume controls) or keeping their right foot against a sostenuto (special sustain) foot lever. All simultaneously with bridging one or both hands to select a note or two on one or two more manuals, and occasionally selecting some stops or pressing a thumb piston to select a combination of stops. Sometimes reading music from a score in front of of them *and* holding a conversation (during the easier parts). For some reason this message was previously rejected for being too big!! It had a link with an example of a good friend of mine playing a Theatre Pipe Organ in a residence in Australia: I’ll send that under a separate message. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yt3S-F2t5ss Apologies for the off (radio) topic reply, but Wayne started it. 藍 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 12 Dec 2023, at 18:51, Josh Fiden wrote: > > Great. Years ago I knew a keyboard player Skip Van Winkle. Saw him play many > times with Dallas Hodge & some of the Tower of Power guys, plus a host of > other incredible players. Besides being quite a character, he would play > rhythm & lead parts on a B3 and kick great bass lines with both feet. And > yes, hold a conversation with you at the same time. > > Distressing to think mastering SO2R contesting may be genetic. > > 73 > Josh W6XU > __ 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 missing features
Maybe it depends on the individual setup. Despite using a steerable double mag-loop for RX, the urban noise is horrendous. I don’t find the K3S NR to be particularly good and I’ve placed a BHI Parametric Equaliser NR box in line. For me, it doesn’t do a great deal - except for one day last week, where the signal I wanted was strong (S9) and about equal to the ambient noise. I then found that I could null out the noise entirely with the BHI unit, giving me near armchair copy. When the wanted signal is below S9, noise reduction results in degradation of the wanted audio to a point where the NR is non-effective. Currently, I find the K4D noise reduction works quite well, albeit using a different RX antenna. As Wayne has already stated Q1 2024 and we’re not there yet, why would you expect a different answer at this point? 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > > > On 11/12/2023 3:45, Tim Tucker wrote: >> I got tired of waiting for special subtraction NR and decided to do >> something about the lousy K4 NR on SSB. I bought the BHI Dual Inline NR >> module and the results are impressive. I will publish a video soon. Anyone >> who says that better NR won't help you make more weak signal contacts, >> especially if you're in the big city, doesn't know what they are talking >> about on this subject. That plus the decreased fatigue factor... >> The last thing we heard from Wayne about missing features was that the >> Remote Software would be released as Beta in Q1 2024. Every other ask about >> other features has been met with radio silence for months. Expect more of >> the same at this point. >> Tim __ 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] KAT500 Sleep current?
Interesting to note that there is no “Idle” button in your image. I guess that’s elsewhere in the utility. I would assume that as they’ve used the word “Power” in the utility, I’d expect it to be the same as the power button on the front panel of the KAT500. From what you’re saying, it certainly seems to act that way. My setup has the KAT500 power up when the shack PSU is turned on, but I always hold the power button on the KAT500 when I turn the radio/s off and of course all of the LEDs go off. MY setup is all hard wired so I can’t easily get a meter inline to check current consumption when the KAT500 is ‘off’. I don’t have consumption issues, as all of my power is turned off when I leave the shack. Sorry I can’t be of much help. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 9 Dec 2023, at 22:49, W2HX wrote: > > I think it does more than shutdown the oscillator. It seems to turn off all > leds, and return the unit the bypass mode. It looks really shutdown. I am > referring to this checkbox "power" seen here top right. (I hope this image > makes it through) > > > > > 73 Eugene W2HX > Subscribe to my Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@w2hx/videos > > -Original Message- > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On > Behalf Of G4GNX > Sent: Saturday, December 9, 2023 5:41 PM > To: Elecraft Reflector > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KAT500 Sleep current? > > From the KAT500 manual: > > "Idle Sleep > In some installations a 28004.5 MHz signal may be heard from an oscillator in > the KAT500. If this is an issue, you can shut it down when it is not needed. > Click on Idle Sleep to put a check in the radio button. The oscillator will > stop running shortly after the last key press or the last data communication > with other equipment and restart automatically when needed.” > > From this, one might presume that’s all the ’sleep’ does - turn off the > oscillator and the rest of the circuitry remains live. The spec also says: > Supply Current 1.0 A max (200mA typical). I’d assume that the KAT500 would > continue to draw around 200mA whilst in standby and turning off the > oscillator (sleep) would make very little difference. > > 73, > Alan - G4GNX > South Coast UK > Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > > > > > > On 9 Dec 2023, at 22:23, W2HX mailto:w...@w2hx.com>> wrote: > > > > When I use the KAT Utility to power down the KAT500, anyone know how much > > current it consumes in this sleeping mode? I ask because I was surprised > > that I had a dead battery this morning after a week or so of non-use > > (battery is a rechargeable Lipo so no problem) but I was wondering how > > "asleep" it actually is. > > > > > > 73 Eugene W2HX > > Subscribe to my Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@w2hx/videos > __ 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] KAT500 Sleep current?
From the KAT500 manual: "Idle Sleep In some installations a 28004.5 MHz signal may be heard from an oscillator in the KAT500. If this is an issue, you can shut it down when it is not needed. Click on Idle Sleep to put a check in the radio button. The oscillator will stop running shortly after the last key press or the last data communication with other equipment and restart automatically when needed.” From this, one might presume that’s all the ’sleep’ does - turn off the oscillator and the rest of the circuitry remains live. The spec also says: Supply Current 1.0 A max (200mA typical). I’d assume that the KAT500 would continue to draw around 200mA whilst in standby and turning off the oscillator (sleep) would make very little difference. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 9 Dec 2023, at 22:23, W2HX wrote: > > When I use the KAT Utility to power down the KAT500, anyone know how much > current it consumes in this sleeping mode? I ask because I was surprised that > I had a dead battery this morning after a week or so of non-use (battery is a > rechargeable Lipo so no problem) but I was wondering how "asleep" it actually > is. > > > 73 Eugene W2HX > Subscribe to my Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@w2hx/videos __ 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] KPA500 Receives Keying Signal but does not XMT
OK so are you sure that the cables have been connected exactly according to the KAT500 manual (page 5)? When you power up the KPA500 (with the K3 already on) do you see the KPA500 announce itself in the VFO-B area of the K3? 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 5 Dec 2023, at 02:41, Peter M Iverson wrote: > > Yes, both cables are Elecraft 15-pin cables. > > Sent from my iPhone//Pete > >> On Dec 4, 2023, at 15:30, G4GNX wrote: >> >> Can we have a little more info please. >> >> Do you have two 15pin cables, one from the K3 to the KAT500 and one from the >> KAT500 to the KPA500? >> >> Are the cables genuine Elecraft E850463 Aux Interface Cables or are they VGA >> style cables (which won’t work)? >> >> You should not need any other cables connected to the setup apart from power >> and RF. >> >> Page 5 of the KAT500 user manual shows the correct cabling. >> >> 73, >> Alan - G4GNX >> South Coast UK >> Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 >> __ 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] Noise from KAT500?
Send an email to: elecraft-unsubscr...@mailman.qth.net <mailto:elecraft-unsubscr...@mailman.qth.net> 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 4 Dec 2023, at 23:03, Masadaman via Elecraft > wrote: > > How do I unsubscribe to this? > > Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android > > On Sun, Dec 3, 2023 at 8:14 PM, Jim Brown wrote: > On 12/3/2023 4:20 PM, David Woolley wrote: >> small, ferrite toroid. Using a higher frequency allows a less bulky >> transformer. > > Yes. > > 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 masada...@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 g4...@g4gnx.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] KPA500 Receives Keying Signal but does not XMT
Can we have a little more info please. Do you have two 15pin cables, one from the K3 to the KAT500 and one from the KAT500 to the KPA500? Are the cables genuine Elecraft E850463 Aux Interface Cables or are they VGA style cables (which won’t work)? You should not need any other cables connected to the setup apart from power and RF. Page 5 of the KAT500 user manual shows the correct cabling. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 4 Dec 2023, at 23:18, Peter Iverson wrote: > > Here’s the problem: I’ve been successfully running a K3/KPA500/LDG > AT-600ProII with no problems, usually USB and digital modes at about 400W > out. I recently obtained a KAT500 and replaced the LDG tuner. I used the > Elecraft 15-pin cables for full integration. The KPA500 follows the K3 when I > switch bands, but when I go from STBY to OPER, the KPA500 shows no output. > Neither SWR nor POWER led’s light up. I tried my original configuration with > the LDG tuner but same problem occurs—KPA500 no output. I know the K3 is > producing output because on STBY the LDG shows POWER and I’m making contacts > barefoot. I’ve even tried the basic hookup with RCA cables but no joy. The > KPA500 does show an asterisk in the left corner of the display when I key the > K3 so it is receiving a keying signal. I’ve checked to make sure I have the > latest firmware version and I’ve doubled checked to make sure that INHIB IN > is DISABLED in the menu. I’m running the KPA500 on 240V mains. I’m hoping > someone can help me solve this dilemma. > > Pete > KH6GK __ 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] Noise from KAT500?
Then purchase a 12V PSU from a reputable Ham Radio dealer, who is unlikely to sell you a noisy one. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 3 Dec 2023, at 19:16, W2HX wrote: > > ? I don't have any 12v transceivers. This is the only 12 device I have in > the shack. > Thanks > Eugene W2HX > Sent from Nine<http://www.9folders.com/> > > > From: Bob McGraw > Sent: Sunday, December 3, 2023 12:11 PM > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] Noise from KAT500? > > Just power it from the transceiver power supply and all will be > resolved. There is no point in making life complex. > > 73 > > Bob, K4TAX __ 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] Noise from KAT500?
Oh purleeez, don’t start a political argument on an Amateur Radio forum, especially without changing the subject line. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 3 Dec 2023, at 15:28, Wes wrote: > > I know you are a fan of government running everything in our lives, but this > "small" government is $33+ trillion in debt. > > On 12/2/2023 8:25 PM, Jim Brown wrote: >> >> 99.9% of stuff that plugs into the wall has a Switch-mode power supply, most >> of which are varying degrees of noisy. They were mandated to save energy >> about 20 years ago, but thanks to small government, the FCC has no money to >> enforce their Rules that they be quiet. So they aren't. __ 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] Noise from KAT500?
FWIW I had this issue with an IC7100/MFJ 1500W tuner. I was finding sprogs in the 40 metre band and they were changing frequency (moving round the band) when I changed the tuning frequency, which I put down to different relays being deployed, varying the load. I replaced the PSU and all returned to normal. I also have an AOC monitor that chucks noise over several HF bands on my K3S, due to an errant PSU. I don’t use it very often and not in the shack any more. I run my K3S and ancillaries (including the KAT500) from a 60 amp (continuous rating) variable voltage SMPSU which is capable of 100 Amps for short periods. It’s well built and very quiet. That PSU has been in use for many years with no hint of trouble. I also use them on Theatre Organ consoles for the stops. There can be upwards of 400 stop magnets requiring 500mA each, usually for <50mS, so theoretically 200A could be drawn and on the odd occasion (usually under test) that a General Cancel is required for all tabs (stops) those PSUs just take it in their stride, and there’s been no QRM noticed on any nearby radio. SMPSUs are absolutely fine if you choose carefully - the bigger the better. Wall warts are just a recipe for trouble. The only ones I use these days were supplied by Yaesu, rated at 12V 1A and they’re quiet across all loads I’ve presented them with. Pleased that you’ve cured your issue. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 3 Dec 2023, at 01:48, W2HX wrote: > > Mike, K8CN wins the cigar! > > > > The issue is the power supply ☹ I took some spectrum analyzer plots to 7 MHz > and you can see what I saw. The set up is spectrum analyzer -> KAT500 -> > Dummy Load. First picture are two "max hold" traces superimposed where the > problem can be seen. > > https://w2hx.com/x/Elecraft/KAT500/Noise-Issue/KAT500-AC-Power.png > > The "lower" trace is what I saw with the kat500 in bypass. The "top" trace is > with the kat500 inline (auto or manual). > > > > I then replaced the wall-wart power supply with a 12V battery. And this is > what I saw for BOTH bypass and inline. Clearly the problem. > > https://w2hx.com/x/Elecraft/KAT500/Noise-Issue/KAT500-battery.png > > using a battery, the noise is about -80 dBm. Using the wall-wart, in some > cases the noise is as high as -60 dBm > > > > My task now is to either leave it on battery or preferably, find a low noise > PS. > > > > Thanks everyone for the ideas. > > > > 73 Eugene W2HX > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA 500 Question
Also, many people forget that the KAT500 works on RX as well as TX and provides a band-pass filter which changes position across tuning segments. If you’re using the KAT500 without the Aux cable and the main TX antenna for RX, as soon as you tune the RX away from the current tuned segment, the RX path is no longer at optimum. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 14 Nov 2023, at 02:52, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote: > > I have a KPA-1500, and followed the manual's instruction to run an Aux cable > between my K-3's ACC jack (on the KIO3B) and the KPA-1500. I prefer to have > the band changing already accomplished before I go key down, even for just a > dit. > > 73, Pete N4ZR > __ 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] K3 and KAT connections without a KPA500
No, it’s the multi-core cable with a 15 pin plug on each end. Check Page 5 of the KAT500 manual. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 4 Nov 2023, at 21:50, Jim Cary wrote: > > The Aux i/o is the one with phono type plug on the end, correct? > __ 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] XV 144 trasnverter for sale
Judging by my recent transaction, $600 is way too high. Last month, I purchased an XV144 and an XV432 transverter in 'as new’ condition. The only things that were missing was any cables and manuals - which are available to download from Elecraft. Including shipping from the USA to the UK, taxes and insurance, I paid under $500 for the entire package. I don’t consider that I underpaid, neither was I ripped off. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 26 Oct 2023, at 18:20, Clay Autery wrote: > > 1) It ain't Elecraft. > > 2) The XV-144 is out of production as you well know. > > $600.00 is well within the realm of reasonable for the right buyer. > > Guess you ain't the right buyer. > > 73, > > Clay E. Autery, Jr. > KY5G > > On 10/25/2023 5:32 PM, Wes wrote: >> Wow, $600. You can buy a 25W Q5 Signal transverter for $500. >> http://q5signal.com/index.php?route=product/product=60_id=52 >> >> Wes N7WS >> >> On 10/25/2023 1:05 PM, Michael Kelly wrote: >>> https://k3bfp.com/?page_id=66=true >>> __ 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] TS-890 vs K4D performance?
Well said Mark and thanks for doing so. I also monitor several Elecraft groups. Because, like you, I have other Elecraft equipment. One thing I would ask of any new subscribers to our K4 group is that you supply both your name and callsign. This saves us a lot of problems trying to verify genuine members, or having to email the prospective member, asking for info. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 (Admin/Owner K4 Group) 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 >> On 25 Oct 2023, at 00:20, Mark Musick wrote: >> >> Guys, >> As I mentioned in an earlier post to John, WB5THT, this reflector is really >> not the place to discuss at any length anything about the K4/K4D. There is a >> dedicated reflector for that at Elecraft-K4 @groups.io. >> Bob, N6TV one of the K4 testers is on that reflector and answers many >> questions. I'm not saying the K4 shouldn't be discussed here. I'm just >> pointing out that on the K4 reflector you will get a much more in depth, >> varied and informative answer than you will on this reflector. Most K4/K4D >> owners do not monitor this reflector. By the way there are over 1500 K4s out >> there at the point. >> The very question of this thread was discussed at length sometime ago on the >> K4 reflector. The thread not only discussed a comparison to the 890, but the >> 7610, 990 and other radios such as ANAN. >> Rob Sherwood is on the K4 reflector and owns an 890. He put his thoughts out >> about the two radios. He also discussed other radios he has used as compared >> to the K4. Others who have owned or do own an 890 gave their thoughts as >> well. >> All one has to do is subscribe to the K4 reflector and search the archives. >> If you ask the question, Bob, N6TV will probably answer by providing you >> with the link to the thread. >> In the files section there is a huge file that has many questions and >> answers that have appeared on the reflector. Also, many questions on >> programming macros etc. also exist in the files section. >> If you are wondering why I monitor this reflector, I have a K3, 2-K3S, K2, >> KPA500, KAT500 and KPA1500. This is the place where that equipment is >> discussed. As to my K4D I monitor both reflectors. Quite honestly, I can't >> ever remember a K4 question being asked here that wasn't already asked and >> answered on the K4 reflector. >> By the way you don't have to own a K4 to join the reflector. Anyone >> interested in the K4, weather they own one or not, is welcome. >> Those are my thoughts Gentlemen. I'll go back to sleep now. >> >> 73, >> Mark, WB9CIF __ 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] Overseas distribution and service?
Dave, I agree. You certainly should not have to pay that kind of shipping for a UK warranty and TBQH if it had been my warranty claim, I’d have taken W to court over it. The warranty was with the UK retailer, not Elecraft. W lost their engineer/technician and decided to crap all over their customers. In fact I also know of a local Ham who returned his early K4 under warranty to W and insisted that they replaced it free of charge. They had to (reluctantly) agree. However, I thought your original post was about lack of UK facility and overseas shipping charges, not the (rightly) defunct W Hence my comments. Sure you can get service manuals for other rigs, these days but unless you have appropriate equipment, including an SMD station and some programming knowledge, you would be very unwise to undertake your own repair on a rig that’s in the same class as the K4. If you return your rigs to a local distributor for repair, you wouldn’t need service manuals anyway. Elecraft have an adequate support service, both online and by phone. You can also get direct access to the owners and talk things over with them if necessary. Can you get direct access to Icom or Yaesu staff at all, let alone the company owners? Sorry, this is getting away from the subject line, but ISTM that Wayne and Eric actually care about their customers as fellow Radio Amateurs and are not ‘just’ interested in the money or prestige. I don’t even know who the JA directors are, or whether they are actually Radio Hams and understand our problems, let alone the Chinese where you might as well be speaking a different language - oops, we already are. 藍 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 22 Oct 2023, at 13:51, Dave wrote: > > Alan, G4GNX, it’s not unfair to expect an item purchased from a main dealer > in the UK for the dealer to supply service, without the purchaser having to > pay for shipping to/from California. A friend recently had to pay return > shipping from the USA on a K4D warranty repair for an item purchased from > W… > > It’s a different matter if someone purchases a product directly from > Elecraft. > > At least with the main Japanese equipment there are service manuals freely > available (eg FTDX101D, TS890S and IC-7610) and dealer/distributor UK based > service. > > By comparison, with Elecraft you are completely out on a limb with their > later equipment. > > Dave G4AON > K4D, KPA500, KX3, K2 and K1 __ 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] Overseas distribution and service?
IMO that’s a tad unfair. Shipping is always expensive, regardless of which rig you buy, unless you live in the country of origin. It just shows up as worse because individual items are being shipped, so it’s not hidden in the overall price. In fact if there was a UK distributor, you would almost certainly pay extra shipping from them to you. I can’t see the difference between paying $250 for a repair direct to Elecraft or to a local (UK or European) facility. They’re not going to differ by much. It’s unlikely there will be much difference in repair cost for any other manufacturer’s rig. I've spoken with Carlo Bianconi and he’s willing to carry out warranty and non-warranty repairs, even if you did not buy your K4 from him. I’ve not checked but shipping (for repairs) may well be cheaper than shipping to/from the USA. Elecraft have already stated that they're in negotiation with Moonraker and others to distribute and repair their products in the UK. If a prospective buyer is really concerned, perhaps they should wait for the outcome. I know of one local Amateur who has returned his K4D directly to Elecraft for repair under warranty. I’ve no doubt that his experience will appear on the K4 reflector before too long, so anyone sitting on the (purchase a K4) fence should perhaps wait for that report before deciding. ISTM that the closest thing to a K4 is Flex, although they are different animals. I was involved in purchasing a Flex 6600 for our local club, around the time that Elecraft first started taking orders for the K4. I regret that involvement and knowing what I know now, I would have strongly resisted. Not only was there the cost of the 6600, there was the extra expense of a Maestro unit to run it. Remote software for Windows is free but clunky. Software for iPhone costs money and software for Mac is around £300. Flex have been promising this, that and the other for years and still no sign of fulfilment. At least Elecraft are fulfilling their promises, albeit a bit slower than some impatient Hams would like. Again, I’ve not investigated, but I can’t see repair or shipping of Flex to be much different from Elecraft. One thing for sure, I would not want to be beholden to a manufacturer’s flaky server for remote operation, such as was experienced recently with Flex. I’d put money on the K4 remote facility being 100% reliable and secure from the start. In my book, if you want the best you have to pay “the best’s” money. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 22 Oct 2023, at 11:05, Dave wrote: > > Here in the UK, Waters and Stanton sold Elecraft products and provided a > limited level of service. However, W are now owned by Moonraker who have > no real service facilities (as far as I know), and neither are currently > listed as distributors on the Elecraft web site. > > Given the lack of a service manual for more recent products, the huge > shipping charges to/from overseas, plus at least $250 for repair, it looks > to me as if Elecraft are going to struggle with sales outside the USA on > anything more complex than a simple kit. > > I am a long term Elecraft fan, having a K1, K2, KX3, K4D and KPA500. I was > also an early K3 adopter, which was sold when I bought the K4D. > > I like my K4D and it is QRV most days, but I cannot recommend that anyone > in the UK buys one, unless they are prepared to pay out a considerable > amount should it develop a fault, either in, or out, of warranty. > > 73 Dave G4AON > __ > 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] Buying a K4 in UK
There are some anomalies that need to be cleared up, both in your post and in Geert’s post. Both of you are partly correct and of course entitled to your opinion. I’m also not happy with curt one-liners. If you call Elecraft, what are they going to tell you? The cost of a K4, the cost of shipping and possibly a choice of courier? Things we already know. As far as USPS is concerned they actually contract with Parcel Force in the UK, not Royal Mail. I won’t pretend to know all of the vagaries of USPS, I leave that up to you guys on the US side of the pond. Supposing that USPS do their job correctly, any problems are likely to be with Parcel Force. They have a vast hub in Coventry (Midlands - England) which also houses HMRC (Customs) staff, who vet all packages that pass through the hub and that’s where most of the issues are. Last time I heard, the hub was not fully automated - they had staff using bicycles to get from one end of the vast warehouse to the other! HMRC are grossly understaffed and it usually takes them at least a week (sometimes a lot more) to clear a package through Customs and calculate the duty payable. Parcel Force will then take a couple of days to move the package to the delivery depot and in the meantime they will send the recipient an invoice for taxes and for handling the taxes. Until that’s paid, they will not deliver. My K4 was sent via UPS who either managed to ship it back and forth between different airports, causing some delay, or their iT and tracking are total crap. At least it took them less than a week, door to door. I would have preferred FedEx or DHL, both of which seem more reliable and consistent in the UK. Geert is incorrect on who’s responsible for screw ups. It may be the case in other countries, but UK law states that it’s the sender’s responsibility to ensure that any item is delivered correctly and on time (if stated). None of the shipping companies operating in the UK will entertain a claim from the recipient for loss or damage and the goods do not become the property of the recipient until they’re delivered in good condition. I’m sure that Elecraft know this and know how to ship their products safely. However, once the goods have left the shores of the USA, they have no control when things go awry, especially when the shipping agent is insisting that all is well, while the recipient knows it darn well isn’t! ISTM that there’s very little difference in shipping costs between the various companies, for a given service. Obviously premium services will cost more. Everything but everything is getting more expensive these days, including shipping and it’s gonna get worse. Comparing the cost purchasing direct from Elecraft and from elsewhere in Europe, for me was a no brainer.The distributors in non-USA countries are bound to charge more, to cover the cost of shipping from the USA and the cost of shipping to the end user and some cash to cover any possible warranty claims which they have to repair, plus they’re entitled to some profit. AFAICS the main consideration isn’t initial cost or shipping costs. The real concern is where you would send your $6000 pride and joy for any repairs and how long it would take. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 2 Aug 2023, at 21:43, Jon Poland wrote: > > I agree with the comment to call Elecraft and take exception to Geert's > comments. > > There are other carriers besides the US Postal Service. From my experience > shipping hundreds of parcels from the US to the UK is that the USPS > contracts with a commercial provider in the UK (vs the Royal Post), and > that provider does not do a very good job. > > On the other hand, you can choose FedEx, UPS, or DHL. I've had > particularly good experience with DHL - especially using a discount > provider called Parcel Hero. I guarantee that these big companies are > absolutely up to date with the complexities of foreign import and VAT. > They know how to safely deliver high value items while complying with > current laws and regulations. > > I am confident that Elecraft has experience exporting into the UK (and > EU). I'm sure they have done it more than a few times already. > > jon N0WL > __ 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 Yamaha CM-500 Mic?
This may sound like a silly question, but are you sure you have the plugs in the right way round? i.e. Not swapped over. AFAIK this problem has not been reported on the K4 reflector and I know other folks are using them. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 31 Jul 2023, at 00:40, Oscar Staudt wrote: > > When I got my K4D a month ago, I unplugged my Yamaha CM-500 mic and > headphones from my K3, and plugged them into the back of my K4. I set the > mic input to rear, and mic bias on. I expected the mic to perform > like it had in the K3. > > > I attempted to get 3-5 bars of ALC by turning up the mic gain control. Even > with the gain up to 80, I’d have to speak *very* loudly to just get a > flicker on the ALC meter. > > > I then went back into the mic configuration and turned on the preamp (14dB). > After that I could get some ALC bars with the mic gain around 65 or more. > But > I still had to talk much louder than I had to with the same mic on the K3. > (note: mic level on the K3 was set around 7). > > > Question: Is it reasonable to expect that I’d have to have the mic gain at > such a high level - and still have to talk louder than my normal (K3) > level? > > > BTW, I can hook up the MH-4, switch to front mic, and all works smooth with > mic gain around 12. __ 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] Grounding, Lightning & Attic Antennas
> I disagree. Reflectors are the ideal place to discuss and learn, although > strictly speaking it might be better to use a reflector dedicated to the > subject. > > Anecdotal evidence can be extremely useful, even if it treads on someone > else’s toes. > > Using a single source and taking one person’s advice is not necessarily the > best way to gain knowledge. There are many sources on most subjects and > there’s generally no “one size fits all”. > > 73, > Alan - G4GNX > South Coast UK > Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 / IC-9700 > On 30 Jul 2023, at 05:31, Jim Brown wrote: > > On 7/29/2023 7:18 PM, Steve L wrote: >> What I don’t clearly see is how to provide a station and antenna ground for >> a basement operating position. > > Steve, > > Email reflectors are NOT the place to learn this stuff, but they are the > place to learn where to learn it. STUDY the link I provided to my tutorial, > and/or the N0AX (Ward Silver) ARRL Book. k9yc.com/publish.htm Scroll down. > > 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft service / support in the UK ?
My advice would be to forget W altogether. They may think they’re agents for Elecraft, but they have little or no stock of anything new. They don’t even advertise the K4 any more and unless they suddenly found a competent engineer and bought suitable test equipment, they cannot honour warranty repairs. Even when they were selling K4s etc., they appeared to be grossly overpriced, especially for options like the KAT4 tuner. If you don’t want to do what I did and order direct from Elecraft in the USA, I would recommend contacting Carlo Bianconi - https://www.carlobianconi.com/index.php whose prices seem competitive and he knows what he’s doing when it comes to repairs. 73, Alan - G4GNX South Coast UK Elecraft K4D / KPA500 / KAT500 > On 18 Jul 2023, at 22:35, crabtreejr--- via Elecraft > wrote: > > Waters & Stanton are the Elecraft distributors in the UK. According to the > Elecraft web site, they offer "the complete range of Elecraft products, with > warranty backup and technical assistance". Effective July 1st, 2023, Waters > & Stanton moved location, and now operate as part of the Moonraker Group Ltd. > Did they, and if so do they still, offer a repair service in the UK? > Thanks and 73 > John KC0G/M0KCY __ 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] Signal source for KX3 temperature frequency calibration
Agreed, but as I already have the single frequency version, it will be cheaper too just buy another one. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 14 Jun 2023, at 22:38, Wes wrote: > > The Leo Bodnar two-channel GPSDO should give you both frequencies, although > setting them is really clunky. The promised revised software never > materialized. > > Wes N7WS > > On 6/14/2023 11:27 AM, G4GNX wrote: >> It’s true that both rigs *can* use a 10MHz reference, but the far better way >> to run the IC-9700 is by using an injection board which pulls the onboard >> TCXO from the GPS reference at 49.152MHz, instead of using the 10MHz input >> which is only checked periodically. >> >> The only disadvantage is that 2 different devices are required, one for >> 49.152MHz and one for 10MHz (for the K4). >> >> 73, >> Alan - G4GNX __ 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] Signal source for KX3 temperature frequency calibration
It’s true that both rigs *can* use a 10MHz reference, but the far better way to run the IC-9700 is by using an injection board which pulls the onboard TCXO from the GPS reference at 49.152MHz, instead of using the 10MHz input which is only checked periodically. The only disadvantage is that 2 different devices are required, one for 49.152MHz and one for 10MHz (for the K4). 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 14 Jun 2023, at 17:23, Björn Ekelund wrote: > > Why not just split the signal to both radios since both use a 10MHz reference? > Or are they very far apart? > > Björn SM7IUN > > On Wed, Jun 14, 2023 at 4:34 PM G4GNX <mailto:g4...@g4gnx.com>> wrote: >> AFAIK Leo ships Worldwide (perhaps not Russia)! >> >> It’s an excellent device and fully configurable. >> >> I use one on my IC-9700 and it works flawlessly. I’m considering buying >> another one for the K4, because I’m a bit OCD. 藍 >> >> 73, >> Alan - G4GNX >> >> >> >> > On 14 Jun 2023, at 14:40, Björn Ekelund > > <mailto:bj...@ekelund.nu>> wrote: >> > >> > I'm not sure they ship to the US but I use this >> > <https://www.leobodnar.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info=107_id=301> >> > to >> > calibrate all my radios. >> > >> > Björn SM7IUN >> > >> >> __ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: 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 >> Message delivered to bj...@ekelund.nu <mailto:bj...@ekelund.nu> __ 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] Signal source for KX3 temperature frequency calibration
AFAIK Leo ships Worldwide (perhaps not Russia)! It’s an excellent device and fully configurable. I use one on my IC-9700 and it works flawlessly. I’m considering buying another one for the K4, because I’m a bit OCD. 藍 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 14 Jun 2023, at 14:40, Björn Ekelund wrote: > > I'm not sure they ship to the US but I use this > <https://www.leobodnar.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info=107_id=301> > to > calibrate all my radios. > > Björn SM7IUN > __ 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] Email DANGEROUS EMAIL
It looks like it didn’t go through the reflector, as it’s not in the archive. Just ignore and delete it. Hopefully the idiot who sent it, is now getting all input to the reflector, which should bore him stupid, unless he’s a Ham. 73, Alan - G4GNX Moderator > On 14 Feb 2023, at 20:24, bill steffey ny9h wrote: > > GOT THIS SENT LOOKING LIKE IT IS FROM ELECRAFT LIST . > __ 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] Fluorescent RFI solved
FWIW I have a friend who lives about a mile away and his neighbour replaced his halogen downlighters with LEDs. He also did not change the dimmer. The RFI on 2 metres completely wipes out the band. The guy is an ahole. When he found that he couldn’t listen to his DAB BC radio, he changed a few of the LEDs, but refuses to replace the rest, so 2 metres is still wiped out. What he’s done is actually illegal in the UK, but my friend won’t report it. I have mostly LED lighting now. Mini Sun and Phillips seem to be RFI free. I also installed a couple of cheap LED lights in a cloakroom next to my shack and they ‘appeared’ to be RFI free, but I missed one band hone checking. They obliterate any RX on 4 metres. Fortunately I don’t need to use them when I’m using the radio, so I can live with it, as they don’t seem to be causing issues with any other RX/TV etc., I guess Should replace them, but it would be a lot of hassle, as the entire fitting would need to be replaced. As I’ve had no other reports of issues with them, I guess I can live with my RFI pollution conscience. Good advice to test for RFI before installing. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 27 Nov 2022, at 15:18, Mark Newbold wrote: > > Not all FEIT LED's are RFI-free. At the local Red Cross office I tracked down > a horrible RFI problem to 23 FEIT BR30 13-watt track/flood lights in a nearby > business. That business owner returned them to Costco for a refund (even > though they had been installed for several years) and replaced them with > Ecosmart lights from Home Depot. Those were RFI-free. > > Any time you buy a LED light, you need to test it for RFI before installing > it. If you buy a bunch of LEDs, test them all. There might be just one that > is making RFI, even though they all appear identical. > > --Mark K7NEW > > -- > Mark Newbold > Port Angeles, Washington, USA __ 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] [K3] K3 MacOS M1 Mini
I’ve been running Parallels on my MBP M1 since I got it and it’s never slowed anything down. I use Windows 11 for writing C++ and programming STM devices. The main thing I don’t like about Windows 11 is that useful things such as Delete are in a sub-menu, rather than a straightforward right click. That and the lack of a proper delete key. I won’t be using HRD or any other program that refuses to go with the times. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 25 Sep 2022, at 00:51, Bayard Coolidge, N1HO via Elecraft > wrote: > > …...Only fly in the ointment I’ve encountered is that I run Parallels and > it upgraded to the latest version and then installed Windows 11 ARM for me. I > haven't played with it yet, so I don't know how much it will bog down the > system. *BUT*, be forewarned that Ham Radio DeLuxe is Intel-only and flatly > told me in their support forum that they do NOT intend to make an ARM64 > version for Windows 11. I only use HRD as a backup log program to review my > awards standing (e.g., DXCC, WPX, etc.), and now do so on my Intel-based > iMac, but I plan to retire it eventually. I've never used it for rig control, > etc. > 73, > Brandy, N1HO __ 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] [K3] K3 MacOS M1 Mini
I started using a 2012 MacMini a short while ago, after my elderly Win7 PC sound card failed and it wasn’t worth fixing. The difference between my setup and your proposed one is that I have updated the MacMini to a server style 1TB SSD and more memory, so that I can leave it running 24/7 without worrying. The other thing I’ve done is to bootcamp it and I run Windows 10 on it. The reason for this is so I can run Log4OM which is a Windows based program and I believe that the MacMini USB capability is far more reliable and stable, even when running Windows. It’s been running without issue so far with my K3S, even with 2 screens, but unfortunately programs like HamClock won’t run correctly, which I believe is because the author has made ‘illegal’ screen writes. TBQH I don’t think that the expense of an M1 MacMini is justified for shack use, unless you’re going to double it up for apps that need that sort of speed and memory. I will probably ditch Log4OM sooner or later, due to unfixed bugs and the fact that it uses OmniRig for CAT control. OmniRig only allows 2 rigs to be connected and I want more than that. If/when I do change my logging and CAT control, I’ll then have the choice of using it in Mac native mode or Windows or both. In fact I slipped up and took out a 2nd version of Parallels for my MacBook Pro by mistake and I may well install the 2nd iteration on the MacMini, which makes it very convenient to run MacOS and Windows simultaneously. Like you, I’m looking at logging programs, although of course I don’t know whether our requirements are the same. I need CAT control via the logger for 4 rigs minimum and I need a really good net control section, database sharing via Dropbox and ability to send QSO data to QRZ.com <http://qrz.com/> in real time. I’m interested to know what you think of RumLogNG and any other logging program/app you might be able to recommend. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 24 Sep 2022, at 19:24, David Christ wrote: > > Has anyone used a Mac Mini with a K3 or K3s? How much RAM and how big an > SSD? I am especially interested in which logging program you use. I have > been looking at RumLogNG but am not set on it. How well has it been working? > > David K0LUM > __ 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 vs. K4D shipping
How utterly childish. There is no “fight”. We have different opinions, that’s what discussion is all about. Something you usually learn just after leaving the school playground. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 3 Sep 2022, at 02:06, Richard Isaacs wrote: > > Cat fight! > >> On Sep 2, 2022, at 6:07 PM, G4GNX wrote: >> >> Diversity is not needed by everyone, but I would agree that there are >> probably more that use it than don’t, hence the larger number shipped. >> >> 73, >> Alan - G4GNX >> >> >> >> >>> On 2 Sep 2022, at 19:22, Jim Brown wrote: >>> >>> On 9/2/2022 9:15 AM, Hunsdon Cary III wrote: >>>> I’ve been following the “Shipping Status” page for the K4. It’s readily >>>> apparent that the K4D is being shipped at a faster rate than the “basic” >>>> K4 - no doubt because it sells for a lot more ! >>> >>> Yours is the cynical view. I view it as more likely that it is the more >>> desired version -- it certainly would be for me, because diversity RX is >>> critical. >>> >>> 73, Jim K9YC >> >> __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K4 vs. K4D shipping
Diversity is not needed by everyone, but I would agree that there are probably more that use it than don’t, hence the larger number shipped. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 2 Sep 2022, at 19:22, Jim Brown wrote: > > On 9/2/2022 9:15 AM, Hunsdon Cary III wrote: >> I’ve been following the “Shipping Status” page for the K4. It’s readily >> apparent that the K4D is being shipped at a faster rate than the “basic” K4 >> - no doubt because it sells for a lot more ! > > Yours is the cynical view. I view it as more likely that it is the more > desired version -- it certainly would be for me, because diversity RX is > critical. > > 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Update on Interference on 17M
I think you may be right. Take a listen on 40 metres. OHR is on almost every evening in the UK and moves up and down the band. Not sure where you are but you may be able to pick it up and compare. It’s quite obvious when you hear it and see it on a waterfall/scope. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 22 Apr 2022, at 09:09, Ron Bell via Elecraft > wrote: > > Thanks all for you input and recommendations, helped me submit an "Intruder > report" to DARC. > > I do not think the source is local (power supply, solar systems, Etc.) It's > very strong 20+ over S9 and 20 Khz wide, comes and goes at odd times. Best > guess is an HF radar. > > Ron __ 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] K3 MCU LD
You’re right, not all cables work. If you have one by Prolific, best advice is to bin it. Elecraft supplies a cable with the FTDi interface, or you can buy one elsewhere. Don’t buy a cheap one, it’s a false economy. The K3 utility should be the latest one from Elecraft. When you finally get the port to show, ensure that the baud rate is set to 34800, just to be on the safe side. You may need to force a re-load by applying 13.8V power, then press and hold the power button for at least 10 seconds. I forget the exact indicators, but you will see the backlight go off. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 4 Apr 2022, at 06:13, Josep Torres via Elecraft > wrote: > > Hi guys, > > New to this list. Been suggested by a fellow ham. > > I have a K3 that get stuck while trying a firmware/software update. > Problem is that seems to be no communication between the PC (WIN7) and the K3 > as I get a message of “K3 is not responding”. > > I use a Serial to USB cable and have been told that not all cables work. This > morning I will try to buy another one and try again. If this doesn’t > recover’s the K3 from MCU stuck, I will have to sent it to Italy to Official > Service to get recovered from them. Of course this is the most expensive > solution, but the only way I see to get it back to life. > So, what do you recommend for such a cable so PC and K3 can communicate.? > > Thanks, > > > 73, > > Josep > EA6BF > BUG #256 - CWops #3072 - FOC #2182 (ex 1724) > > > > >> On Apr 3, 2022, at 22:18, Dick Dievendorff wrote: >> >> There are step by step instructions in K3 Utility Help, Trouble Shooting. >> >> 73 de Dick, K6KR >> >>> On Apr 3, 2022, at 13:25, Don Wilhelm wrote: >>> >>> Go to the manual and look up how to recover from that condition (Forcing a >>> firmware download). >>> It on page 42 of my old manual under Firmware Updates, the page may have >>> changed in newer manuals. >>> It is easy to do and does not have to go to a repair facility. >>> >>> 73, >>> Don W3FPR >>> >>>>> On 4/3/2022 1:37 PM, hp via Elecraft wrote: >>>> Here is one line from an EA6 message about a K3 he just purchased . >>>> >>>> Elecraft K3 is stuck at MCU LD and need to be sent to Italy to Elecraft >>>> Official Service to recover it. >>>> >>>> Are there any tricks to recover without sending it to a service site ?? >>>> >>>> I have told him how to subscribe to the reflector and gave him a link to >>>> the archives >>>> but maybe someone has a quick answer which I can forward to him . >>>> >>>> Hank K7HP >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> __ >>>> 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 d...@w3fpr.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 d...@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 ea...@aol.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 g4...@g4gnx.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] A hat was saved (totally apropos of nothing)
I have two. I purchased the 1st one when I ordered upgrade items for a K3. The 2nd one (AFAICR) came free with the K3S. I sold the K3, but the hat didn’t go with it! I still have the K3S and I wore the one of the hats today for a hospital appointment, as the WX was slightly cold today. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 29 Mar 2022, at 18:02, Mike Flowers wrote: > > Some years ago, Elecraft offered some hats on their website. Part number > was KHAT, of course. I bought mine then. > > I run a K3, P3, KAT500 and KPA500 and occasionally a KX3 ... while wearing > my hat. > > - 73 and good DX de Mike, K6MKF, NCDXC Vice-President 2021-2022 > __ 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] De-soldering Tool Recommendations?
I have a similar story when I worked for Centronics back in the 1980s. In the UK, we had one rework tech and he had the vacuum desoldering tool. Mostly he would remove components, but sometimes the rest of us would do our own work and the rework tech taught me how to use the tool properly and how to clean it. I can\t remember who made that tool, but I do remember a badge on it with the word “Swaplater”. I can’t say whether the cheap device I bought from Banged has as much suction as the “Swaplater” but I find it adequate for my needs as a hobbyist. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 14 Mar 2022, at 22:24, Dave Fugleberg wrote: > > Back when I was a bench tech doing component level repair, I used a vacuum > desoldering station from Pace (I forget the model). That thing worked > great- I pulled hundreds (maybe thousands) of through-hole parts from > boards with it. > > They were (and are) expensive, but so are time and PC boards, so my > employer equipped every bench with one. It had a glass tube in the handset > that collected the solder. As long as you cleaned it regularly, it worked. > > I recently looked at some used ones but still couldn’t justify the price > for my hobby needs, so I continue to use a variety of means to remove > solder. None are as good as the Pace. I’ve been tempted to buy a Hakko or > one of its knock offs, but reviews generally say they don’t have enough > suction. I’d love to hear an honest comparison between the Pace and the > Hakko from someone who has used both. > > 73 de W0ZF > __ 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] De-soldering Tool Recommendations?
For surface mount I would never use a soldering iron. Learn to use a hot air gun and just pick the components of with tweezers. For thru hole components I use a ‘proper’ desoldering gun which has a hole through the middle of the bit and will remove all solder surrounding a pin. With the right professional technique you gently move the pin around the hole, using the desoldering tool, which ensures that no part of the pin sticks to the plate-thru. Sorry I don’t have a link, but take a look at sites such as Banggood. They have some excellent desoldering ‘guns’ at around $40. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 14 Mar 2022, at 05:06, Tony <73gu...@gmail.com> wrote: > > All: > > Can anyone recommend a budget de-soldering iron that can be used in tight > places? I need to remove a small component that has a few surface mount > devices close by so the iron would need to have a small tip. > > Also need advice on the best soldering iron to use for this type of work as > well as the best low-temp Rosin core solder to use. > > Thanks, > > Tony -K2MO > > __ > 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] KPA500 on 10Meters
I can’t remember where or exactly what the settings are, but between the 3 pieces in use, it’s possible to set the KPA500 to stay in standby, per band. It was a long time back, but I remember setting mine so that I could not TX hight power on 6 metres, due to the antenna not being rated above 100W. I hope that gives you some clues. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 25 Jan 2022, at 22:21, ncela...@scicable.com wrote: > > > > I have a K3,KAT500 and KPA500. I had a station on 10 Meters this afternoon > that I wanted to reach. > > The KPA500 did not work on 10M as if it was in standby mode (it was not), the > KAT500 tuner didn't tune either the K3 showed 1.0-1 5W all across the 10m > band but no relays clicks in the KAT500. I tested after this happened and > both work as expected on all other bands. It has been years since I used 10M. > The firmware is current on all three units. > > Any thoughts or ideas. > > TIA > > Larry NA0F > __ > 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] Elecraft KPA500 sn 1910 dead, update.
A bit of a long shot - I presume you’ve checked the cover interlock switch? 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 17 Jan 2022, at 19:57, Sam Sargent via Elecraft > wrote: > > > Elecraft KPA500 sn 1910 dead. > > UPDATE 12/17/21 > > First. Thanks to everyone who has responded to mypost. I have read all > comments withinterest and have responded to several folks who offered ideas > that I havetried. Thank you for trying to help. > > SECOND. Here is a bit of extra info that I havediscovered. I disassembled > the fuse blockand cleaned all contacts and the fuses with the “Deoxit” > product. I configured my “OWON HDS272S”meter/oscilloscope to measure > resistance and noted that the leads are about 0.7ohms. I connected the meter > leads to theflat prongs of the 115vac cord that was plugged into the fuse > block on theKPA500. With the rocker switch on thefuse block 3 in the OFF > position (o) the meter showed zero (0) ohms. With switch 3 ON (!) the meter > showed 2.8ohms. Thus, subtracting the resistance inthe meter leads, the > resistance through the fuse block changed from 0 ohms to2.1 ohms. I > connected the 115vac cord tothe wall socket and went through the power up > procedure. No joy. I listened for the hum of the transformer, and there was > no hum. I am flummoxed! > > CONCLUSION. Thisleads me to believe that the power cord, fuses, and fuse > block are functioning. > > I think that my next step is to look into the possibilityof sending the > KPA500 to a repair facility. I am open to your ideas. 73 Sam > __ 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 with KAT500 firmware v. 2.05
I’ve been following this topic for a couple of days. Here are my observations: I don’t use 80 metres much, mainly due to horrendous local noise. On Christmas Eve, I wanted to join a Santa Claus net and checked the tuning solution for my antenna (which is not very good for 80 metres) and it seems to have changed since I last set it up for the particular frequency. I tried a re-tune and could not get a very good match. I was rather surprised as I’d always heard and found that the KAT500 could match an iron bedstead. I decided to ignore the poor match, thinking it would be ‘good enough’, but on transmitting SSB at 100W, after a very short while, the tuner went into a Fault condition. A further attempt at matching (20W power) produced the same Fault result. I’ve not made further tests yet on 80m but 40m is as good as ever (1.2:1). I checked the firmware and although I thought I had the latest, it appears that I had not updated the utility and it reports v1.75v ask being up-to-date. I’ve downloaded the later utility, but not applied it yet, I now wonder whether to upgrade, or will I be opening a new can of worms? Should I try to get a better tuning solution with v1.75 first? Having started to install a Mac mini in the shack, I also downloaded (but not installed) the Mac version of the utility and I notice that there is about a two year difference between that and the Windows version. Are they the same utility, or should there be an updated version for Mac? 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 2 Jan 2022, at 17:46, Bart Campbell wrote: > > I upgraded one of my KAT500 tuners to firmware version 2.05. I had already > upgraded the KAT500 utility to the current version, so no issues there. > After the upgrade, the KAT500 is unable to find a tuning solution on my 80 > meter dipole. My first thought was that there was an issue with the > dipole, but I checked it with an AA-230 antenna analyzer and there was no > change from previous measurements. I then switched the upgraded KAT500 > with another KAT500 that I have which was running firmware version 1.75. > It found a tuning solution on the dipole just fine, as has always been the > case with the first KAT500 prior to the firmware upgrade. So, I > "downgraded" the updated KAT500 to firmware version 1.75 and it once again > was able to easily find a tuning solution for the 80 meter dipole. It > seems that something in the tuning algorithm was changed in the latest > firmware that affects the tuner's ability to find a tuning solution on 80 > meters (I did not notice this issue on other bands after I updated the > firmware, but I concentrated my troubleshooting on the 80 meter dipole). > > Any ideas? I really want to use the latest firmware to take advantage of > the capability to accept transceiver TX frequency messages in Kenwood > format. > > Bart, NS4X __ 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] Need a logger recommendation
I too am looking for different logging software. I want to control a K3S, IC9700 and IC7100 plus one other. DXLab Suite sounds like it could work for me, but I need to know if it also has a good Net Control facility. Do you happen to know? 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 22 Dec 2021, at 23:25, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: > > >> Can anyone recommend a good logger that includes some kind of alert >> via text or email when a spot appears for one I need? > DXLab Suite (DXKeeper, SpotCollector, etc.) by AA6YQ > <https://www.dxlabsuite.com/> > > SpotCollector also includes the ability to generate text/e-mail alerts. > > 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 arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noise Reduction
I have a similar issue with what is possibly the filthiest wall-wart in the country. Unfortunately, our equivalent of the FCC failed miserably to do anything to get it stopped, despite my offer to simply buy a new one and the dear lady who owns it wouldn’t let anyone in to check. I am now using a directional LZ1AQ mag-loop setup, with one of the MFJ NR boxes and a BHI audio DSP and signals are bearable but not great. When things are really bad, I resort to cheating and listen on one or other SDR via the Internet, where antennas are good and local noise is minimum. What surprises me is how good the NR is on them, particularly Hack Green. There may not be nearly as much noise as I hear on the K3S, but there must always be some and with very little ‘fiddling’ it will sound like a quality FM broadcast (as long as the audio itself is clean. 73, Alan - G4GNX > On 15 Dec 2021, at 14:55, Dave wrote: > > I have that same issue... > I have some very dirty grow lights about two blocks from me. They are dirty > as they come... Splattering across 80-20 meters. The K3 has never been able > to adequately clean up the crud from them. > > In defense of the NB/NR on the K3, the signals are on the order of S7 to S9, > so my expectations may be too high for the K3. I just hope the K4 NB/NR work > better in my environment. > > 73, and thanks, > Dave (NK7Z) > https://www.nk7z.net > ARRL Volunteer Examiner > ARRL Technical Specialist, RFI > ARRL Asst. Director, NW Division, Technical Resources > __ 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
I fear we're going to get out of control but How many folk singers does it take to change a light bulb? 10 - One to change the light bulb and the other 9 to sing about how good the old one was. and just to take it completely off-topic: How many software engineers does it take to change a light bulb? NONE - It's a hardware problem. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "John Payne" To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 26/07/2021 14:18:13 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Off topic - musical composition How many guitar players does it take to change a light bulb? 12!! One to change the bulb and the other 11 to sit around saying "I can do that". 73 de John W4CWZ __ 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
I build and refurbish Theatre Pipe Organs and produced sampled organs, mainly for home use. Wind pressures can be as high as 25" WG and some of my organs rise more than 6' above the floor. Any advance on 25" or 6'? ROTFL My favourite stop = Bourbon to Organist Coupler. :-D 73, Alan. G4GNX __ 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] Refurbished? What does that mean exactly?
Knowing Elecraft, I don't think you have anything to worry about. You will get a unit that will be like new. There may be slight cosmetic marks on the case, but that's doubtful too. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bill Coleman" To: "Elecraft" Sent: 01/07/2021 00:31:01 Subject: [Elecraft] Refurbished? What does that mean exactly? After Elecraft discontinued the P3, I was alarmed, because I wanted one. So, when they offered to sell a limited number of new units, I ordered a P3 when it was first available. At the time, Elecraft said they were going to order the parts and would send out notices when the units were available. I got a notice today for my ordered P3. But they are sending me a refurbished unit, not a “new” one. They did give me a nice discount on the price for my trouble. (although the price was raised considerably from before the P3 was discontinued, so that may be a wash). Given that the P3 is currently unobtainium, and is likely going to remain so after these orders are done, I paid my balance to complete the order. I’m just wondering what I’m getting, if it isn’t “new.” It’s not exactly what I expected. Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: aa...@arrl.net Web: http://boringhamradiopart.blogspot.com Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 __ 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] Gurus
I disagree. The first rules of using test equipment are to calibrate it and RTFM, then maybe you can trust it. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Dean L" To: "Wes Stewart" ; "Elecraft Mail List" Sent: 10/06/2021 20:36:41 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Gurus looked at the videos and said, "Okay, where are the strengths?" the fact that it's $100 Not looking to wage war just stating facts The first rules of using test equipment you got to trust it... 73 all Dean __ 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] Unsubscribe.
Right above your unsubscribe message is an Unsubscribe link to click on. :-) Juste au-dessus de votre message de désabonnement se trouve un lien de désabonnement sur lequel cliquer. :-) 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Jack F6AJW" To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 20/05/2021 17:26:21 Subject: [Elecraft] Unsubscribe. Please unsubscribe ; KX3 sold. Tanks es 73's. Jacques F6AJW __ 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 postings: Main Elecraft reflector vs. Elecraft-K4 at groups.io
Thanks Wayne. I'm sure we all appreciate how busy you must be. It seems like a reasonable compromise and will help to keep K4 only subjects separated from other Elecraft product discussions. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Wayne Burdick" To: "Elecraft Reflector" Sent: 17/05/2021 17:49:16 Subject: [Elecraft] K4 postings: Main Elecraft reflector vs. Elecraft-K4 at groups.io The number of postings we're making about K4 operation, etc., has jumped of late. This is due to the increase in shipping rate. I find that it's not practical to double-post everything to both the Elecraft-K4 list and to the main Elecraft forum. So I'll be following these rules: - Major announcements (including this one :) will go to both. This includes: - documentation and software updates - K4-related product announcements - issue alerts (operational or hardware) - technical topics of broad interest - Day-to-day discussion supporting K4 user questions will go only to the Elecraft-K4 list. I've resisted any sort of list bifurcation in the past, but I believe it's called for in this case. Regular forum readers won't have to wade through so many narrowly focussed K4 threads, and Elecraft-K4 readers can be assured that no official Elecraft postings will be omitted from that list. 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 arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500-KAT500 tuning settings
AFAICR The KAT500 follows the K3, not the KPA500, as long as the Aux-bus cable is connected. I can certainly hear the relays click on the KAT500 when I tune the K3 across a frequency threshold point. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: p...@xs4all.nl To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 08/05/2021 12:59:03 Subject: [Elecraft] KPA500-KAT500 tuning settings Hi, if I switch the KPA500 with the band buttons to another band I would expect the KAT500 to follow the last tune settings on the new band. However this is not the case, the tuner switches to the new band settings only when HF goes through. The 15-p cable is connected and there is no K3 connected. Is there a menu setting to let the KAT500 follow the KPA500? 73s Steef PA2A __ 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] K4 interface to KPA-1500
Is there an update to the KPA500 firmware that reflects the K4? 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bob Wilson, N6TV" To: "James F. Boehner, MD" Cc: "Elecraft Reflector" Sent: 30/04/2021 05:38:24 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K4 interface to KPA-1500 Also be sure to set RADIO TYPE to K4 in the KPA1500 menu. If you don't see it listed, upgrade the KPA1500 firmware. 73, Bob, N6TV __ 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] KAT-500 Increasingly Erratic
Check for dry joints on the wiring to all of the antenna connectors. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: davein...@comcast.net To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 07/04/2021 23:41:44 Subject: [Elecraft] KAT-500 Increasingly Erratic I Have a KAT500/KPA 500 combo that I built as kits two yrs ago. The KPA-500 is a pleasure to operate but the KAT500 has been increasingly erratic to the point where it no longer tunes 7Mhz, even connected to a cantenna. The other bands are erratic and sometimes it is several tries. Powering down and back up helps sometimes. I'm not sure the "memories" are there. I'm switching between bands multiple times and looking for tuning action on the radio control panel. Some bands tune well sometimes and other times they do not. Possible intermittent. Troubleshooting has caused me to look over my antenna system very carefully, fixing some things and eliminating everything in my (G5RV) antenna system until I was down to a new piece of coax and the cantenna. So what to do? All those little relays, is there anything a guy can do on his own? Thanks de Dave WB7ELY __ 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] Can I rent a K4?
The deposit is usually to cover minor damage when an item is returned. It would have to be as high or higher than the cost to buy a new one, or the renter could be well out of pocket. Most would-be renters would be unlikely to want to shell out $400+ as a deposit. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Eric Garner" To: "Elecraft list" Sent: 03/02/2021 17:44:43 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Can I rent a K4? isn't that why most expensive things require a deposit to rent them? Eric KI7LTT On Wed, Feb 3, 2021 at 9:32 AM Alan - G4GNX wrote: __ 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] Can I rent a K4?
I can't see that working. When a renter defaults and does a runner, Elecraft would have to layout a lot in recovery fees and maybe even end up with a pile of junk for their trouble. It might work in a very small country or if they had a physical presence in all states. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "John Harper" To: "Elecraft list" Sent: 03/02/2021 17:20:47 Subject: [Elecraft] Can I rent a K4? I wonder if this model would work? Flex offers a refund for those who try one of their rigs and don't like it. But a rental would pose less risk to the manufacturer. There are (rumored) a small number of K4's in existence - the rest, of course, are on hold. But regardless...even after full production has begun: What if, before plunking down 4 kilodollars, I could rent the rig for two weeks? If I don't like it, I send it back to Elecraft and I'm only out the rental fee and the cost to ship (renter pays shipping in both directions). If I do like it, I keep the rig and pay the balance. The rental fee would separate the serious potential buyers from those simply wanting a two-week joyride. The question is, how much of a rental fee would be acceptable for a company to offer such a business model? John AE5X https://ae5x.blogspot.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] Shack Equipment Storage
My shack is in the attic of a single storey building in the UK. I have a similar setup with a roof window for ventilation and light. It can get up to 104 degrees in Summer, even with a small evaporative air conditioner in use. It doesn't normally get too cold in Winter because the room's fed by part of the main heating system. I leave a PC, network server, network hub and phone charger running 24/7. My K3, KPA500, KAT500, IC-9700, IC-7100 and a Wouxun multi-band plus all PSUs, rotator controllers, monitor screens stay there permanently (all switched off) and are turned on and used as necessary, several times a week. I have had no issues so far. ;-) BTW any would-be burglars reading this, don't bother - we have a very good security system, linked to the Police. :-D 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Joseph Shuman via Elecraft" To: "Elecraft Mail Server" Sent: 27/01/2021 15:18:04 Subject: [Elecraft] Shack Equipment Storage There is a difference between stupidity and ignorance. I claim ignorance. My shack is a room in a barn attic space, separate from the house, no HVAC so cooling is one window and heating is a space heater (when I am working the waves). Otherwise storage is ambient temp in the room. Winter temps typically down to low 20s, summer up to 90s. Sunny summer temp in the shack gets up to 120. My concerns are leaving the KX2 (#3007) and KXPA100 (#2802) in the shack and the effects of daily cycling the temp, especially in winter. My “internet research” (maybe an oxymoron?) has such varied opinions it is worthless. What say you, my fellow Elecraft faithful? Keeping Watch- shu Joe Shuman, NZ8P __ 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: Thoughts on MFJ-1026 or any other phasing box
I have one and I also use an LZ1AQ double mag-loop. The mag-loop works pretty well with QRM from neighbours but it has limitations, especially when there's more than one source. The MFJ unit kinda works, but you do need a good 'noise' antenna, which I haven't installed yet. I'll be using a mini-whip which comes recommended for the job. Again though, the MFJ has its limitations when there are multiple noise sources. From reports I've read, some people find them great and others not so. Take a look at a couple of YouTube videos, that might help you decide. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Dean L" To: "Elecraft Mail List" Sent: 07/01/2021 23:00:28 Subject: [Elecraft] OT: Thoughts on MFJ-1026 or any other phasing box I have horrible noise ( assumedly from my neighbors) that i cant seem to kick on my K3 and kx3. The NB and NR dont touch it. Ive been watching youtube videos on this magic little box from MFJ that seems to do wonders on my type of noise. Has anyone a MFJ-1026 they no longer need? Any thoughts on this unit? Thanks for the bandwidth and 73 Dean K2WW __ 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] Genius vs. Stupidity
Oh God, please don't let us degenerate to this on a Ham Radio group. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Wes" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 26/12/2020 01:17:29 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Genius vs. Stupidity If you were woke, you'd know that the bell curve is racist. Wes N7WS On 12/25/2020 5:57 PM, Fred Jensen wrote: Actually, it all depends on who gets to draw the curve 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 12/25/2020 4:21 PM, Harry Yingst via Elecraft wrote: It all depends on where you are on the curve. On Friday, December 25, 2020, 07:11:43 PM EST, Clay Autery wrote: MANY higher-intelligence folks APPEAR to be "insane" to other folks falling higher up on the bell curve. I am in no way anywhere nearly as intelligent as the Professor, but have had any number of encounters in my 57 years where either the "look" or the actual words from the person with whom I was interacting clearly communicated that they thought I was "insane". "I'm not crazy; my mother had me tested!" - Sheldon Cooper, Big Bang Theory __ Clay Autery, KY5G (318) 518-1389 __ 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] K3 Main knob friction adjustment
Hi Gernot. I'll hold off with the printing for now. Still very interested to try out a fully working version. Something I never thought of designing myself. :-) 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: g...@gmx.net To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 23/12/2020 00:22:17 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Main knob friction adjustment Hi Alan, thanks for the feedback - the uploaded design is not the latest one and probably won't work. I'll upload an upgrade soon. 73 Gernot DF5RF __ 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] K3 Main knob friction adjustment
Hi Gernot. I just downloaded it and will 3D print it as soon as I can. Looks like a good design and a useful feature. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: g...@gmx.net To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 22/12/2020 23:07:32 Subject: [Elecraft] K3 Main knob friction adjustment Hello Elecrafters, while we are all waiting for the arrvial of the next beauty, I started to think what's to improve on my K3 meanwhile. I realized I have always missed a means to adjust knob friction while tuning. So I sat down and did the construction and printing (and some iterations of that) and I got one sample working for me now. It really makes a difference now to tuning. Here is my idea: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4694133 <https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4694133> Let's see if anybody else likes to have that, too. Please send me a PM if you do so. If there is enough interest I'm willing to put in the effort to make it available via a printing service. The price range might be around $20-30, depending on the material and quality. Seasons greetings 73 Gernot DF5RF __ 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] Flashover in linear amp fed w. K3
This happened to me last week, although it may not have been a flashover. Have you power cycled the K3? Mine would not output any power after the KPA500 faulted, even when I turned the KPA500 off. No barefoot power, zilch. I power cycled the K3 and all restored itself. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Pentti A J Pajunen" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 15/11/2020 19:35:28 Subject: [Elecraft] Flashover in linear amp fed w. K3 Hello Elecrafters! Happened one day when tested Drake L4, that there was a loud bang in the linear causing electrical shutdown in both, the linear and the K3. Now seems that the K3 refuses of any output, RX normal. Hopefully the cause is only corrupted firmware, still having a fear for damaged transmiiting cirquits. No PA output no output when the PA is deactivated. Bricked? -- 73 & CU Penna, OH2G, OH2CG __ 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] K3S RX OUT
Yes they do. :-) A little expensive for what it is, but it will do the job. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bill Steffey NY9H" To: "Alan - G4GNX" ; "Elecraft Reflector (elecraft@mailman.qth.net)" Sent: 14/11/2020 16:48:22 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S RX OUT mfj makes a little box that does just that https://mfjenterprises.com/products/mfj-1708b-sdr good to see you on nidxa zoom stay well On 11/14/2020 11:38 AM, Alan - G4GNX wrote: There's no reason why you can't do this. You would however have to be very careful that the SDRPlay is isolated when you transmit. Not just removing power to it, but also grounding the SDRPlay input. This is not because there's any issue with the K3, but because you can still set up a high energy field that can destroy the SDRPlay. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Jim McDonald" To: "Elecraft Reflector (elecraft@mailman.qth.net)" Sent: 14/11/2020 16:31:42 Subject: [Elecraft] K3S RX OUT Can an SDR, such as a SDRPlay RSP1A, be connected to the RX OUT jack on the K3S instead of using the IF OUT (on the radio or the P3)? 73, Jim N7US __ 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...@arrl.net -- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3S RX OUT
There's no reason why you can't do this. You would however have to be very careful that the SDRPlay is isolated when you transmit. Not just removing power to it, but also grounding the SDRPlay input. This is not because there's any issue with the K3, but because you can still set up a high energy field that can destroy the SDRPlay. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Jim McDonald" To: "Elecraft Reflector (elecraft@mailman.qth.net)" Sent: 14/11/2020 16:31:42 Subject: [Elecraft] K3S RX OUT Can an SDR, such as a SDRPlay RSP1A, be connected to the RX OUT jack on the K3S instead of using the IF OUT (on the radio or the P3)? 73, Jim N7US __ 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] K3s/KPA500 communication issue?
Mike, I'm not sure if this is relevant or not but I also have a tale of woe, similar to yours. My main antenna is also an OSCFD and not really cut for 80 metres, so the SWR is always a bit higher than I prefer, possibly approaching 2:1. My setup is a K3S + P3, KPA500 and KAT500. A couple nights ago I was attempting to call a special event station in a pileup on 80 metres and decided to turn the KPA500 on. I was only running with around 11W from the K3S, giving me about 200W output from the KPA500. After 'shouting' a couple of times, the SWR was just below 2:1 but the KPA500 didn't like it and suddenly faulted. When I tried to TX barefoot from the K3S, there was no output - nothing showing on the K3S display. I checked the power setting and it was 100W. I had previously power cycled the KPA500 and it was in Standby. The only way I could get the K3S to TX was to power cycle it, then all was back to normal. I ran the KPA500 in Operate again for a few moments to check that it was OK and all seemed normal, but I didn't pursue it on 80m because I didn't want to push my luck. :-) A couple days later on a regular 40 metre net, I ran the KPA500 again for over an hour (on SSB) and have had no issues. I've not checked the manuals as to whether the original action is a safety feature or a bug. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Mike Dodd" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 14/11/2020 01:59:57 Subject: [Elecraft] K3s/KPA500 communication issue? Occasionally it seems my K3s doesn't know the STBY/OPER state of my KPA500. I also have a KAT500 for my Carolina Windom. Here's the first scenario: K3 in CW mode. I put the KPA in STBY and hit TUNE on the KAT and on the K3. When the tune is complete, I send one dash and note the 100W LED on the KPA. So far, so good. Next I put the KPA in OPER mode. The K3 power level is already set to about 10W, sufficient for about 250W on the KPA. Now I send a dash. Occasionally the KPA power indicator shoots up to 700W, and the KPA faults. When I clear the fault, the KPA is in STBY, and if I send a dash, I see the 100W LED come on. if I then put the KPA in OPER and send a dash, USUALLY I get the expected 250W output, but occasionally it shoots up to 700W and faults again. Now for the second scenario. With the KPA in OPER and outputting 250W, I switch it to STBY, then send a dash. I expect to see the 100W LED, but it does not light. If I look at the K3 RF bar graph, it shows 10W, not 100W. If I slightly turn the K3 PWR knob, it shows about 10W, not 100W. Until recently, the K3 ALWAYS switched back to my normal setting of 100W when the KPA is in STBY. The fact that it occasionally remains at 10W seems to indicate that it doesn't know the KPA is in STBY. Furthermore, the first scenario, where the KPA output shoots to 700W and it faults, seems to indicate that the K3 is sending it 100 watts -- another indication that the K3 doesn't know the KPA is in OPER, and thus doesn't reduce its output power to 10W. Is there any way to diagnose this problem, and more importantly, to fix it? Thanks for any and all guidance. -- 73, Mike N4CF Louisa County, VA USA Elecraft K3s / P3 / KPA500 / KAT500 Carolina Windom up 45' http://n4cf.mdodd.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 g4...@g4gnx.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] OT question about receiving loop antenna
May I suggest checking all your PSUs. I had the same issue once and it turned out to be the PSU running a tuner. I binned the PSU and installed a tried and tested new one. No more issues. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Victor Rosenthal" To: "Elecraft Reflector" Sent: 12/11/2020 14:16:53 Subject: [Elecraft] OT question about receiving loop antenna I have an RF Pro 1b receiving loop antenna which I use for diversity reception on my K3. It used to be sold by Pixel Technologies, and now it is handled by DX Engineering. If there is someone else who has this same antenna, please contact me off list. My antenna seems to be producing a strong (-50 dBm) spurious signal that starts around 7400 kHz and drifts down. It is frequency modulated at the line frequency. I have replaced the preamp and I still have the problem. I am pretty certain that it is not an external signal, but I would like someone else to check theirs for the same issue as a sanity check. -- 73, Victor, 4X6GP Rehovot, Israel Formerly K2VCO CWops no. 5 http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ __ 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] CM-500
Thanks Charlie. Fortunately the flaking is only around the periphery, not the part that touches the ear, so I have a little time yet. I'll do a search for Velour and see what I can find. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Charlie T" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 03/11/2020 03:29:37 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 I'd highly recommend Velour pads as opposed to OEM or equivalent that start flaking way sooner than you expect. I've put them on three different Sony MDR-7506 headphones. They are much more comfortable and wear quite well (no pun intended). Poke around some. Velour pads are available for many brands. I'm sure they're made for the CM-500's 73, Charlie k3ICH __ 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] Broken boom mic attachment on a CM-500
My CM500 certainly has an electret insert and it came with a separate plug-in battery bias pack. Unfortunately the ear pads are starting to deteriorate. Have you had to replace yours? If so, with what? ISTR I read somewhere that new separate pads are not available. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Jim Brown" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 02/11/2020 02:59:17 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [OT] Broken boom mic attachment on a CM-500 Hmmm. I've used nothing but a CM500 since about 2008, and I've never seen one with a dynamic mic. The data sheet for all of them has said it was dynamic, but none of then were. 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Transformer
Guys. My comment was sarcastic and has a smiley on the end of it. Elecraft know what they're doing and I would not expect anyone to tell them they got it wrong! 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Nr4c" To: "Alan - G4GNX" Cc: "Elecraft Reflector" Sent: 20/10/2020 19:42:31 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Transformer No, no. The torque wrench is used to insure the proper torque is applied. A torque wrench is not a torque multiplier, it is a measurement instrument. Sent from my iPhone ...nr4c. bill On Oct 20, 2020, at 6:33 AM, Alan - G4GNX wrote: Then perhaps someone needs to educate Elecraft not to specify use of a torque wrench, in their assembly instructions. ;-) 73, Alan. G4GNX __ 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] JIM's KPA 500 transformer [was: KPA500 Transformer]
Jim. I don't see this as resurrecting an old thread. You've asked for help in your particular circumstance, not to discuss the merits of a generic transformer. As you seem to have done almost everything sensible, if the correct torque doesn't correct it, I think your only recourse is to get back on to Elecraft and tell them you think the transformer's faulty. In the meantime, I guess the only thing you can do is either not use it, or wear headphones and try to ignore it. 73, Alan. G4GNX On 2020-10-20 8:11, jimn4kh wrote: I wasn't my intention to resurrect an old thread. I checked the archives before posting my message yesterday. I found a little info but not much. Perhaps I missed it. I delayed going to the list but Elecraft tech support is apparently really backed up because I've gotten zero response to my emails and voicemails beyond one email with the hum mitigation tech note I mentioned before. I thought perhaps the larger community had a specific solution. Judging from the widely varied responses I've gotten obviously not. I've tightened, loosened, and moved the transformer around multiple times with no change. I'll go get a torque wrench and try that but I cant imagine it resolving the problem given how loud it is. Ill take it all apart first and try the procedure once and see if it helps. I just don't like having to solve problems through experimentation on a $2k+ amplifier. Jim N4KH __ 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] KPA500 Transformer
Then perhaps someone needs to educate Elecraft not to specify use of a torque wrench, in their assembly instructions. ;-) 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bert" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 20/10/2020 05:15:21 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Transformer Toroidal transformers cause very little acoustic hum, unless the core is not tightly wound or the copper wire windings are loose! If you have to tighten the mounting bolt with a torque wrench to get the transformer quiet, something is wrong! Bert VE3NR __ 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] KPA500 Transformer
I don't see the problem. I presume you bought a kit to assemble it yourself. You simply reverse part of the assembly procedure, then re-assemble it. I've assembled several KPA500s and I'd bet that you didn't quite get it right first time. There's no shame in that. This is a risk you take with self-assembly. ISTR there's a torque wrench setting for tightening. Did you use one? Have confidence. Take it apart, do as they say and enjoy feeling smug that you fixed it yourself. :-) Lessons learned? Yeah, take your time, follow instructions to the letter. Don't do anything if you're tired. Plenty of space. Plenty of light. The right tools and a suitable container for parts. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Jim Spikes N4KH" To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 20/10/2020 00:59:06 Subject: [Elecraft] KPA500 Transformer Looking for details from anyone who resolved issues with excessive transformer hum during transmit on a KPA-500. I have a hum mitigation application note sent from Elecraft tech support. But the procedure recommended is pretty involved - removing front/side panels, un-plugging connections, removing the transformer, changing positions of the rubber discs, and putting it back together. Possibly more than once, depending on the results. There is a risk of breaking something, and I'm not sure its going to solve the problem if I'm successful. This is a new out of the box KPA500 kit. If anybody has any lessons learned I would appreciate hearing them. Jim, N4KH __ 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] K3 and Astatic mic?
I changed the insert for an electret, turn on K3 bias and it works fine. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "David F. Reed" To: "Elecraft Reflector" Sent: 16/10/2020 17:39:30 Subject: [Elecraft] K3 and Astatic mic? Anybody have any luck getting a old Astatic Silver Eagle microphone to work with their K3? Thanks & 73 de W5SV, Dave __ 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] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m
No sweat Bill. Sh*t happens. :-D 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bill Coleman" To: "Alan - G4GNX" Cc: "Elecraft" Sent: 14/10/2020 18:55:01 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m In this case, it wasn’t RG-213, but RG-303. The author regrets the error. On Oct 14, 2020, at 1:45 PM, Alan - G4GNX wrote: Not wishing to pick a fight, but he said that he is using a balun rated at 1KW. What you describe is a common mode choke and as I'm sure you know, that is not a transformer which is what I described. I can see Jim's frustration. Folks really need to get to grips and properly understand the terms they are using, otherwise we get into meaningless arguments and false advice. RG213 is a commonly used co-axial cable: https://www.awcwire.com/productspec.aspx?id=rg213-coaxial-cable 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: j...@kk9a.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 14/10/2020 18:17:00 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m AA4LR is using #43 ferrite beads on RG-313 coax. I am not sure what RG-313 is however there should be no ohm meter short unless he is using a hairpin match. Perhaps there is a flaky connection somewhere in his system. I had a lot of RF feedback problems with my K3S when using a corroded station in the Caribbean but no current warnings. John KK9A Alan - G4GNX wrote: I presume that you disconnected the feeder from the balun when you did the DC Ohms test? If not, there is something wrong because you should see almost a dead (DC) short through the primary of the balun. I must admit I put off replacing my antenna until I was forced to. Might be the way to go. :-) 73, Alan. G4GNX __ 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 g4...@g4gnx.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 aa...@arrl.net Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: aa...@arrl.net Web: http://boringhamradiopart.blogspot.com Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 __ 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] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m
Sorry to pick you up on this Bill, but you've been rather misleading on your description. A current choke (common mode choke) is not even 1:1 as in a transformer, there is no ratio, primary to secondary. You rightly say that you're using a CHOKE which is NOT a balun "balanced to unbalanced transformer". In the light of that, I apologise. My information regarding a balun is useless to you. Sorry to have wasted your time. BTW I also don't understand where the 1KW rating came from. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bill Coleman" To: "Alan - G4GNX" Cc: "Elecraft" Sent: 14/10/2020 18:45:11 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m It’s a current (choke) 1:1 balun. Ferrite beads over coax. There are no turns, there is no primary. On Oct 14, 2020, at 9:19 AM, Alan - G4GNX wrote: I presume that you disconnected the feeder from the balun when you did the DC Ohms test? If not, there is something wrong because you should see almost a dead (DC) short through the primary of the balun. I must admit I put off replacing my antenna until I was forced to. Might be the way to go. :-) 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message ------ From: "Bill Coleman" To: "Alan - G4GNX" Cc: "Elecraft" Sent: 14/10/2020 13:39:06 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m I was not seeing any SWR shifts on this antenna. A check with an ohmmeter shows no shorts. This antenna is currently on the ground due to other work on the tower. I’m considering replacing the antenna entirely. It’s been up over 10 years, and the traps could use re-work. __ 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 aa...@arrl.net Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: aa...@arrl.net Web: http://boringhamradiopart.blogspot.com Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 __ 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] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m
Not wishing to pick a fight, but he said that he is using a balun rated at 1KW. What you describe is a common mode choke and as I'm sure you know, that is not a transformer which is what I described. I can see Jim's frustration. Folks really need to get to grips and properly understand the terms they are using, otherwise we get into meaningless arguments and false advice. RG213 is a commonly used co-axial cable: https://www.awcwire.com/productspec.aspx?id=rg213-coaxial-cable 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: j...@kk9a.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 14/10/2020 18:17:00 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m AA4LR is using #43 ferrite beads on RG-313 coax. I am not sure what RG-313 is however there should be no ohm meter short unless he is using a hairpin match. Perhaps there is a flaky connection somewhere in his system. I had a lot of RF feedback problems with my K3S when using a corroded station in the Caribbean but no current warnings. John KK9A Alan - G4GNX wrote: I presume that you disconnected the feeder from the balun when you did the DC Ohms test? If not, there is something wrong because you should see almost a dead (DC) short through the primary of the balun. I must admit I put off replacing my antenna until I was forced to. Might be the way to go. :-) 73, Alan. G4GNX __ 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m
Jim. I agree about the MISS-use of the word balun. As the word is actually supposed to represent a balanced to unbalanced TRANSFORMER, I have used it in its correct sense. If I had meant common mode choke, I would have said so. If the OP is not using a balun in the true sense of the word, then he should say so. Sorry, but I can't be held responsible for others' misuse of the terms. I don't see why the word "balun" should be eliminated. That's like saying the word "resistor" should be eliminated because I actually mean to describe a capacitor, but can't be bothered to learn the correct terminology. :-) 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Jim Brown" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 14/10/2020 17:57:31 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m On 10/14/2020 6:19 AM, Alan - G4GNX wrote: I presume that you disconnected the feeder from the balun when you did the DC Ohms test? If not, there is something wrong because you should see almost a dead (DC) short through the primary of the balun. Here's an example of where the word "balun" blows up our thinking about problem solving. The "balun" you're describing is a transformer, sometimes called a voltage balun. Other things commonly called a "balun" are a common mode choke, which should look like an open circuit at both DC and RF. The word "balun" should be eliminated from our use. I know of at least ten very different things that are called a "balun." 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m
I presume that you disconnected the feeder from the balun when you did the DC Ohms test? If not, there is something wrong because you should see almost a dead (DC) short through the primary of the balun. I must admit I put off replacing my antenna until I was forced to. Might be the way to go. :-) 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bill Coleman" To: "Alan - G4GNX" Cc: "Elecraft" Sent: 14/10/2020 13:39:06 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m I was not seeing any SWR shifts on this antenna. A check with an ohmmeter shows no shorts. This antenna is currently on the ground due to other work on the tower. I’m considering replacing the antenna entirely. It’s been up over 10 years, and the traps could use re-work. __ 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] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m
This happened to me on a multi-band antenna, with SWR changing, but no Hi Cur warning. I would be transmitting for months, using only 100W with no issues. I added in a KPA500/KAT500 combination and apart from a short test at 400W, I continued to use it at 200W (SSB) max. After a month or so, the SWR would change - mid QSO. A quick retune and I was able to continue. Over a few weeks the occurrence was more frequent. Using a Rig Expert analyser, no fault or bad SWR was indicated and I (wrongly) guessed that the 400W Guanella balun was breaking down at power over 100W. In the meantime I ordered a new 1KW balun made for that antenna, but before it arrived, during a QSO there was a catastrophic "occurrence" with all kinds of warnings and the SWR was off the scale. A check with a multimeter indicated a dead short somewhere in the feedline (RG58). I also took the balun apart and found no fault. As I'd ordered a new balun, I decided to change it anyway. I don't have the power to exceed the new balun's spec, so it should last forever - RF wise. ;-) Obviously I replaced the co-ax feeder - I now use Westflex 103 with much larger ferrites (to fit the new cable size) as a common mode choke. All now works as it should and shows no sign of breakdown, even at 400W (max legal for the UK). The old co-ax is a different matter. With both ends disconnected (open) connecting one end to the analyser showed a short circuit about 15 feet along its length. I cut out a section either side and the remaining two pieces showed 'open' as they should. On visual inspection I find that the braid of the co-ax has migrated through the center insulation and is touching the inner conductor, indicating that a fair amount of heat has been generated. The area in question was right where the common mode ferrites had been fitted, although there were no tell-tale marks on the ferrites or the outer casing of the co-ax. It's fairly obvious that a high voltage node has caused an internal flashover which in turn has changed the characteristic which has resulted in a high current node which has generated the heat. You may well be right that your balun is not faulty, but you should check it anyway as well as checking out all the other aspects of the installation. If you can, replace the feeder. You may be surprised at what you find. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Bill Coleman" To: "Don Wilhelm" Cc: "Elecraft" Sent: 13/10/2020 01:55:16 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m SWR on the problem antenna is below 1.2:1. It’s a trap dipole - designed for that band. It is unlikely the balun is “breaking down”. It’s a current balun - #43 ferrite beads on RG-313 coax. It can easily handle a kW or more. On Oct 12, 2020, at 2:12 AM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Bill, I would suggest that you check the SWR on the antenna before concluding it is an RF feedback problem. Don't forget that the balun may be breaking down with power and show no problem at lower power (like from an antenna analyzer). Don W3FPR On 10/11/2020 8:53 PM, Bill Coleman wrote: Don, I finally got around to running my K3 into a dummy load. I had no problem running 100w or even 110w with a dummy load. Current draw from the power supply was 22 A and 23 A, respectively, on the K3 display. No HI CUR indications. External wattmeter validates the output. I was getting the HI CUR indication on a trap 30/17/12m inverted V. I had to take it down, and now I’m using a trap 80/40/20m dipole through the tuner. No HI CUR indication on that antenna, either. Even though I have current baluns on both antennas, I’m thinking that my HI CUR problem may be related to RF feedback in the shack. Do you concur? I’m in the process of a number of shack improvements, including antenna replacements and grounding and bonding, so that might take care of it. On Jan 11, 2020, at 11:29 AM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Bill, Is this into a dummy load (bypass the ATU or tune the ATU into the dummy load). If it is into an antenna, there are a whole lot of guesses about how the antenna behaves with higher power levels than your antenna analyzer shows. So check it with a dummy load to eliminate the possibility that the problem is in the antenna. Put an external wattmeter in line with the dummy load to eliminate questions about the calibration on the K3 wattmeter. If you can measure the actual current drawn, that would also be helpful. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/11/2020 11:18 AM, Bill Coleman wrote: Back in early December, I installed two KSYN3As in my K3 SN 7071. Sometime after that, I noticed that on 12m, I’m seeing a HI CUR indication when I set the power level to more than about 80-85 watts. The K3 will back off on the power level, then slowly ramp back up until it hits HI CUR again. I don’t remember seeing this before. After the KSYNC3A install, I ran the transmit
Re: [Elecraft] KAT3A
ISTR you remove the center strengthening bar (plain aluminum) and it will probably help to remove the side panel. Then it's a matter of gentle 'wiggling'. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Grant Youngman" To: "Tom Fitzpatrick" Cc: "Elecraft Refl" Sent: 24/09/2020 22:35:08 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KAT3A Have you looked at the manual? You can follow the installation instructions in reverse …. might give you a hint. On Sep 24, 2020, at 5:26 PM, Tom Fitzpatrick via Elecraft wrote: Can anyone tell me the secret to pulling the KAT3A tuner card out of a K3? I changed it out once for the newest version but forgot how I did it. Part of th chassis frame stops the board from being pulled out. Tom, K4IE __ 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 and subject change [was: Status of Add-ons for K3?]
It really would help if folks were not too lazy to change the subject line to reflect the actual content. Then we could all decide for ourselves whether to bother to start reading it. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Jim Sheldon" To: "Charlie T" Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 24/09/2020 16:41:17 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Status of Add-ons for K3? What, may I ask do these cigarette posts have to do with Elecraft radios? You guys are WAY out of line. W0EB __ 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 Digest, Vol 197, Issue 18
For goodness sake, please trim your posts!!! ;-( 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: ccolema...@gmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 14/09/2020 21:10:47 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Digest, Vol 197, Issue 18 Sent from my iPhone On Sep 14, 2020, at 11:03 AM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote: Send Elecraft mailing list submissions to elecraft@mailman.qth.net To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net You can reach the person managing the list at elecraft-ow...@mailman.qth.net When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of Elecraft digest..." Today's Topics: 1. Why predistortion ? (JR) 2. Re: Why predistortion ? (Wayne Burdick) 3. Re: Why predistortion ? (E.H. Russell) 4. Re: Why predistortion ? (Randy Farmer) 5. KAT500: Fails to tune,and shows 3:1 on good antenna on 18 MHz. (Dave Cole) 6. Re: KAT500: Fails to tune,and shows 3:1 on good antenna on 18 MHz. (Dick Dievendorff) 7. Re: KAT500: Fails to tune, and shows 3:1 on good antenna on 18 MHz. (Ken Winterling) 8. Why predistortion ? (John Harper) 9. Re: Why predistortion ? (Wes) 10. Re: Why predistortion ? (W2xj) 11. Re: KAT500: Fails to tune, and shows 3:1 on good antenna on 18 MHz. (Dave Cole) 12. Re: KAT500: Fails to tune, and shows 3:1 on good antenna on 18 MHz. (Dave Cole) 13. Re: Why predistortion ? (David Gilbert) 14. Re: Why predistortion ? (Bill Frantz) 15. Re: Why predistortion ? (Wayne Burdick) 16. Re: Why predistortion ? (Jim Brown) 17. Re: Why predistortion ? (Jim Brown) 18. Re: Why predistortion ? (David Gilbert) 19. Elecraft CW Net Report (kevinr) 20. Re: KAT500: Fails to tune, and shows 3:1 on good antenna on 18 MHz. (Dave Cole) 21. Re: KAT500: Fails to tune, and shows 3:1 on good antenna on 18 MHz. (Ken Winterling) 22. 630 meter operation on the K4 (Nigel Lemaire) 23. Re: Why predistortion ? (Charlie T) 24. Re: Why predistortion ? (Charlie T) 25. Re: Why predistortion ? (Dr. William J. Schmidt) -- Message: 1 Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2020 17:32:21 -0400 From: JR To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Why predistortion ? Message-ID: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8; format=flowed Why are so many ops obsessed with predistortion? The Elecraft K-Line already produces some of the cleanest, purest transmit signals around.?? Do we need predistortion ?? If so, why, and how much better is it than what we already have?? Should I wait to buy a new rig until that is available? Thanks and Happy Trails to all.?? K8JHR _ -- Message: 2 Date: Sun, 13 Sep 2020 15:03:00 -0700 From: Wayne Burdick To: JR Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Why predistortion ? Message-ID: <93a9df67-0b33-4fbf-88fc-226d98d27...@elecraft.com> Content-Type: text/plain;charset=utf-8 Hi JR, Virtually all class-AB-biased amplifier stages have worst-case 3rd-order IMD in the range of -30 dBc (ARRL method) on some HF bands. This reflects a limitation in the state of the art. Even with adequate feedback and bias, an amplifier operated in the vicinity of its 1 dB compression point (where it is most efficient) will exhibit such characteristics. To improve on this you either need to operate class A, which is highly inefficient, or use predistortion. A small number of commercial transceivers are now providing predistortion, in some cases as an optional/experimental setting (that not everyone uses, or at least not all the time). There are constraints on predistortion power range imposed by the headroom limit of the amplifier stage itself. Go over that point and distortion will be worse than without predistortion. Predistortion, correctly applied, can reduce interference between adjacent stations on a crowded band. This is a factor at least some fraction of the time during typical amateur radio use. Beyond that, the motivation for a ?pure? signal exemplifies the amateur spirit of cooperation, and is an example of keeping the hobby on the forefront of electrical design. Wayne, N6KR elecraft.com On Sep 13, 2020, at 2:34 PM, JR wrote: ?Why are so many ops obsessed with predistortion? The Elecraft K-Line already produces some of the cleanest, purest transmit signals around. Do we need predistortion ? If so, why, and how much better is it than what we already have? Should I wait to buy a new rig until that is available? Thanks and Happy Trails to all. K8JHR _ __ Elecraft mailing
Re: [Elecraft] K1ZTE - KAT500
The KAT500 retains matched memories for each band/frequency per antenna. So yes, you have 3 solutions per band/frequency. It has quite a lot of memories. :-D 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "w4sc" To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 13/09/2020 00:38:08 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K1ZTE - KAT500 I have the KAT/KPA500 setup with the K3. It works great when trained, tracking VFO. I had only one antenna available per band at the time using the setup. Currently the “shack” is undergoing a move and renovation. I will be back on with possibly as many as 3 antennas available on a single band. I have looked for answer to the following question. Is the training saved per-BAND/ANTENNA combination tuning solution?.. possibly resulting in 3 solutions per band. If there is only one solution there are implications in switching to a different antenna in a band with multiple antenna choices. In my case the future may hold a vertical, beam, and horizontal loop on 40M. Ben W4SC __ 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] K1ZTE - KAT500
I was quoting from the KAT500 owners manual and only the min and max power that the KAT500 will tolerate. As I just posted, there's a cable made which allows you to use the external tuner function of the IC-7300, forcing it to output low power for tuning, but without connecting the IC-7300 to the tuner, except for the RF connection. That way you know that the IC-7300 is only outputting its intended tuning power and will protect itself. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "KENT TRIMBLE" To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 13/09/2020 00:03:34 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K1ZTE - KAT500 Alan is right, but it depends on which "good book" one is consulting! We have to be careful about transceiver power levels when tuning an external AMU, for the sake of the /transceiver /as well as the AMU. Your AMU may be able to tolerate 100 watts during the tuning process, but your transceiver may not. Unless the transceiver automatically folds back its output in the presence of high SWR levels, one risks damaging the transceiver's PA transistors. While many modern rigs do so, others, especially older rigs often used by new licensees, do not. For example, when seeing an SWR above 3:1, my FT-991A reduces its CW output from 100 to 10 watts while at the same time flashing "HIGH SWR" in red letters. The rig may be successfully protecting itself, but why risk stressing components if it's not necessary? That's why I prefer switching the transceiver to AM at 25 watts when tuning an external AMU. 73, Kent K9ZTV On 9/12/2020 5:16 PM, Alan - G4GNX wrote: Although it's preferable to have at least 20W to tune, the good book says that anything between 7 and 100 watts is OK. __ 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 g4...@g4gnx.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] K1ZTE - KAT500
From what the OP wrote, I don't think he's using the Tune button to activate the KAT500. A 3rd party sells a cable that plugs into the AH-4 socket on the back of the IC-7300, which allows you to make the IC-7300 enter Tune mode, by pressing the simple button on the end of the cable. It would of course be possible to make your own. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "w4sc" To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 12/09/2020 23:06:37 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K1ZTE - KAT500 There may be a clue here https://kg3v.com/2019/03/03/cant-use-tune-button-on-ic-7300-with-kat-500-tuner/ __ 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] K1ZTE - KAT500
Yes. You would normally 'train' the KAT500 in segments over each band for each antenna. This is done in Auto mode. The recommended segments are listed in the back of the KAT500 manual. Each match setting is stored in its own memory. You would then leave the KAT500 in Manual mode and each time you transmit, it should detect the band/frequency and switch to the appropriate memory. Memory settings are retained after power down. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Ted Edwards W3TB" To: "KENT TRIMBLE" Cc: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 12/09/2020 23:22:48 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K1ZTE - KAT500 Related question: Should the KAT-500 hold memorized settings after shutting down to ready for use another time? __ 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] K1ZTE - KAT500
Although it's preferable to have at least 20W to tune, the good book says that anything between 7 and 100 watts is OK. I guess you're providing that in CW mode. Have you 'trained' the KAT500 for the entire band/s you want to use? If you do that in Auto mode, then switch to Manual mode, the KAT500 should see RF from the IC-7300 and switch to the 'trained' and matched frequency, but you will have to speak into the mic to produce some RF. Pressing the PTT or Transmit button won't do that, unless you have a really high background noise which the mic picks up. Are you sure that the IC-7300 internal tuner is switched out? I haven't messed with our club's IC-7300 for some time (pandemic issues) but I previously found that the internal tuner was not very good and would not match anything over 2:1 and even with it switched out the rig would drastically cut its power back if it thought the SWR was high. It may be a chicken and egg situation where the KAT500 has not yet matched, so the IC-7300 sees that mismatch and won't produce enough power to make the KAT500 activate. You would probably find it would work as you wish if you setup an AH-4 cable between the rig and tuner. Page 15 of the KAT500 shows how to do this. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Russell Domareck via Elecraft" To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 12/09/2020 22:04:29 Subject: [Elecraft] K1ZTE - KAT500 I own a KAT500 and KPA500 that I use with an IC 7300. When in CW mode, the KAT500 can be activated by keying the IC 7300, no problem. This allows the KAT500 to find a match with low power while the KPA500 is in standby mode. In SSB mode, there is still the need to activate the KAT500 for the match, however, neither keying the mike nor speaking into the mike activates the KAT500. A press of the transmit button in the IC 7300 also did not activate the KAT500. I find that I have to first switch to CW mode for the activation before switching to SSB so that the KAT500 is all set for KPA500 operation. Is what I am doing the only way to do this? I have read related posts on this subject but they did not satisfactorily answer my question. __ 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] With the K4 coming, is it time to replace this email list with a forum?
I'd bet quite a lot that it will only be 50% because most contributors are too lazy to change the header. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "David Gilbert" To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 07/09/2020 00:52:45 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] With the K4 coming, is it time to replace this email list with a forum? Ahh. Well then, I'd bet quite a lot of money that 95+% of that traffic will have "K4" in the header and easily be sent directly to your trash bin. You'll never even see it. 73, Dave AB7E On 9/6/2020 3:03 PM, Barry wrote: David Gilbert-2 wrote And as others have pointed out, there is already a K4 forum on .io . why doesn't that work for you?? Dave AB7E Because I'm not looking for a K4 forum. I'm looking to AVOID all the K4 traffic that will be comping. Barry W2UP __ 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 KX3 reverse voltage smoke
In which case I maintain my original point that the PSU is faulty, but it would seem to be by bad design rather than a developed fault. Whilst the mains ground is there for safety, if there was a ground fault, it's quite possible that high voltage/current could be applied to the PSU low voltage side and cause untold damage, a fire or even death. If I had bought a PSU connected like that, I would return it if possible, otherwise it would be in the trash! Apart from the perceived PSU fault, have Elecraft really connected the -ve input terminal to chassis? That would kinda negate the use of the reverse polarity diode. The KX3 circuit diagram is not entirely clear. 73, Alan. G4GNX -- Original Message -- From: "Andy Durbin" To: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: 05/09/2020 19:59:14 Subject: [Elecraft] New KX3 reverse voltage smoke "If that really is the case, there would seem to be a fault with your power supply. The secondary (low voltage) side of a PSU should never be connected to ground. Both poles should always 'float'." Many of the currently marketed small switching supplies have the same internals and only differ in branding, rear connectors, and metering. I own two Jetstream switching supplies and there quite a few "badge engineered" power supplies that use the same internals. These power supplies most certainly do have the negative output terminal connected to chassis and mains supply ground. No, you can't isolate the output terminal. I was remined that the negative terminal is not isolated when I used one of these power supplies to drive the reversible DC motor that tunes my magnetic loop. One direction works ok, the other direction lets smoke out of the wires. If you want to feed reversible polarity DC up the coax using a pair of bias T then the PSU better be isolated! Opinions on whether PSU output terminals should float seem to be quite stong so I expect a protracted debate. 73, Andy, k3wyc __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
