Re: [Elecraft] Need size of Allen wrench for small knobs on K1
1mm Allen Wrench! I have one here in my hand as we speak! I'll send it to you Post Paid you don't need to return it! Best 73, Jim- WA4NTM On Friday, January 16, 2015, George Averill aver...@mchsi.com wrote: Can someone please tell me the size of the Allen wrench that is used to attach the small knobs on a K1? Thanks, George __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net javascript:; This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to capo...@gmail.com javascript:; __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3 - S/N 2917 - FW v2 .19 - DSP 1.3.
*Especially to all that responded to call for HELP:*
*I don't know how my face can be more RED-DER: it's probably along the
lines of FIRE ENGINE RED!. [I knew better!] I don't belong in this FB
fraternity of other FB Operators.*
*I had somehow turn OFF the VOX setting and therefore I could not get my
beloved KX3 to transmit in CW (ME - DUMMKOPF!). When I turned on VOX
I CAN now transmit in CW!*
*THANKS to all responded to this Old Man's (84) cry for HELP! I WON'T be
needing the RSA from the gentleman, Howard - K6IA at Elecraft who so
generously offered the pricing and the promise of securing the RSA.
{So Howard - K6IA, please disregard the RSA] I hate all the work I caused
you, Howard.*
*Jim...*
*WA4NTM*
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[Elecraft] KX3 - S/N 2917 - FW version MCU 2.18 DSP 1.30!
*To all!* *I have a problem: I've checked EVERYTHING but my KX3 has no Power Out with a matched antenna. When I match the antenna There's power out but when I switch to the antenna straight, there's nothing out.* *I have an MFJ-993B auto antenna tuner.* *I'd guess it will have to be sent back to be service. Can anybody tell me where to send it?* *Best 72 73.* *Jim..* *WA4NTM* __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Fwd: KX3 Service!
-- Forwarded message -- From: Gerry leary gerrylear...@icloud.com Date: Sat, Mar 8, 2014 at 1:55 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Service! To: Jim Harris capo...@gmail.com Send it to Ella craft Sent from my iPhone this time On Mar 1, 2014, at 6:44 PM, Jim Harris capo...@gmail.com wrote: *Good evening, All.* *I'm needing to send my KX3 (S/N 2917) in for service. When I try to charge the internal batteries, the display indicates my KX3 DOES NOT have a Battery charger installed but it definitely does. [Rayovac NiMH 2400 mAh] (The rig is NOT under warranty. I purchased this KX3 on or about 11/21/2012; under S.O. No. 2255-6012-3699 and Invoice #97887.)* *I opened my KX3 up with ESD protection and the Battery Cable was NOT connected and in my trying to connect it I pulled one of the wires loose from the Connector on the Battery end of the Harness.* *I'm needing to send my KX3 in for service without the Batteries and I don't know where to send it or if I need a RSA*. *Best 72 73.* *Jim Harris* __ 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 *Good morning, ALL.* *Thanks for all the helpful e-mails suggestions I received from my plea for help with my KX3. I received it back from REPAIR just now and I immediately put it on the air. It works like a charm.* *THANKS ALL who responded.* *Best 72 73.* *Jim..* *WA4NTM* __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] K3 KX3!
*Good afternoon, ALL!* *I've noticed that when I load a newer version of firmware/software, at the end of the load these units seem to turn-off on their own. I read somewhere that the operator should turn the units off and then back on so the units could take advantage of the changes.* *Do I need to turn my rigs off and then back on again* *I hate to ask this question but then I'm reminded That the question is ONLY dumb question when it isn't asked.* *THANKS!* *Best 72 73.* *Jim.* *WA4NTM* __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] RCA Victor!
*Here go again! Nothing to do with Elecraft but radio related.* *I have a Battery operated OLD, OLD, RCA Victor (basket case, but with all knobs, cabinet pieces tubes ) radio and my XYL says to get rid of it or else. I hate to trash it so if somebody restores OLD RADIOS, I'd be more than happy to donate this one to you.* *Contact me off the list and we'll talk.* *Best 73.* *Jim.* *WA4NTM* __ 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
[Elecraft] KX3 Service!
*Good evening, All.* *I'm needing to send my KX3 (S/N 2917) in for service. When I try to charge the internal batteries, the display indicates my KX3 DOES NOT have a Battery charger installed but it definitely does. [Rayovac NiMH 2400 mAh] (The rig is NOT under warranty. I purchased this KX3 on or about 11/21/2012; under S.O. No. 2255-6012-3699 and Invoice #97887.)* *I opened my KX3 up with ESD protection and the Battery Cable was NOT connected and in my trying to connect it I pulled one of the wires loose from the Connector on the Battery end of the Harness.* *I'm needing to send my KX3 in for service without the Batteries and I don't know where to send it or if I need a RSA*. *Best 72 73.* *Jim Harris* __ 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
[Elecraft] Repair of Heathkit HD-1481!
*Good evening, ALL.* *I really appreciate all of those that responded to my plea of help for repair of my Heathkit HD-1481 Remote Coax Switch! I knew I could count on my HAM Community guys.* *Best 73.* *Jim..* *WA4NTM* __ 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
[Elecraft] Heathkit Repair!
*Good afternoon, All.* *This is a tad off an Elecraft topic but it does have to do with HAM Radio.* *I have a piece of Heathkit kit. Does anyone know where I can get this Coax Remote Switch Model HD-1481 repaired? I hate to throw a piece of history in the trash can. I would appreciate ANY lead to a repair station for Heathkits.* *Best 73. * *Jim * *WA4NTM * __ 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
[Elecraft] KX3!
*Hi, All.* *I have a question about my KX3.* *All of of a sudden my KX3 (S/N 2917 with firmware v1.79) has gone from a maximum output power from 12w down to 5w. (I realize this is QRP power on CW.) Is/was there anything in KX3/v1.79 that lowererd this output as was in an earlier version of the K3 firmware dropping the K3 output power?* *Best 72 73.* *Jim.* *WA4NTM* __ 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
[Elecraft] Voltage of K2 2.9AH Gel Cell?
*Hi, All.* *What is the voltage of the 2.9 AH Gell Cell Battery for the K2 when fully Charged?* *Thanks and Best 73.* *Jim.* *WA4NTM* __ 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
[Elecraft] KX3 ATU!
*Good morning, All.* *My KX3, S/N 2917, Purchased under S.O. No. 2255-6012-3699 and it was shipped on or about 11/21/2012!* *My KAT3 was one of the options it includes. This ATU will not tune my 30m RadioWavz Double Bazooka that is almost flat over the entire 30m Band. **This is not the first time I've noticed a problem with this ATU Option. I can have the antenna tuned [it's intermittent] and turn the rig off and the next morning it would have to be tuned AGAIN: same antenna, almost the same frequency!* ** *I also ordered the KXPD3 Paddles. I sent these Paddles back to Elecraft to have the Tension Spring changed out to the firm Tension Spring (P/N E980218). I CAN NOT tell the difference between the medium weight Tension Spring (P/N E980240) and the firm Tension Spring. Is it possible that I didn't have a firm Tension Spring in the 1st place? [I posted this Spring complaint several times and have not received a reply to date!]* ** *I'd appreciate a response to these problems.* ** *Thanks and best 72 73.* *Jim..* *WA4NTM* __ 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
[Elecraft] Question -in-general-?
*Hi.* *Why don't my postings to the Reflector ever go through?* *Jim..* *K1-4, S/N 2580* *K2, S/N 6405* *KX3, S/N 2917* *K3, S/N 2802* __ 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
[Elecraft] KX3-k, S/N 2917!
*Good morning, Folks.* ** *I had a mystery with my KX3 this morning!* *I woke up this morning to a DEAD receiver in my KX3 on 40m. (Last night when I was using it, it was fully operational!) I then checked all of the switches connections and they seem to be correct and tight. **I then tried my K2 and there was static on 40m as is normal around here. * ** *Yesterday I had installed Beta Firmware v1.44 beta and luckily [or unluckily, whichever way you want to look at it] SAVED my configuration. At one time the latest KX3 Utility (1.12.8.11 for Windows) even indicated that it didn't look as if I had a KX3 attached: which I definitely did. [It's ALWAYS connected to my computer via an Elecraft USB Cable.]* *Now here is another mysterious twist! I had resigned myself I was going to have to box up my KX3 to send off for repair. But then I thought I would give a try to that wonderful RESTORE option in the Utility before I resorted to such a drastic move. (I had restored my K3 to operation in the past with this option/procedure with another Beta version of the K3 Firmware: I didn't report this malfunction and I should have!) I went through the operation of a RESTORE of my saved configuration (v1.44 Beta) and jwalah (? - spelling but you get the point), my KX3 came back to life.* *Is this a flaw in Beta v1.44 Version of the Firmware?* *Best 72 73.* *Jim..* *WA4NTM* __ 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
[Elecraft] KXBC3 Question!
*Good morning, Folks.* ** *My KX3 has the KXBC3 Option with 200 maH NIMH Batteries installed: fully charged to 11.0V (indicated).* ** *When I set the BAT MIN to 8.5 in the Menu as is recommended in the Owner's Manual and if I was to transmit using these internal batteries at 3W with BKLIGHT OFF, my rig would drop-dead way before the Internal Battery Pack reached the 8.5V.* ** *What do I have set wrong OR what am I missing here?* ** *Best 72 73.* *Jim* *WA4NTM* __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 S/N 2917
*Good evening, Eric.* * * *Thank you for responding so quickly to my earlier e-Mail. [I bcc only to the Reflector, Eric. I don't know how my e-Mail came direct to you. Sorry!]* * * *If you'll let me know who to contact when I have a question on my * *KX3-K assembly having to do with the manual and/or errata, I will go straight to them. [I already need help, Eric!]* * * *The assembly manual that came with my KX3 (S/N 2917) is Rev. D2, dated Sept. 24, 2012 and the Errata is Rev. D2-2, dated Oct.17, 2012: Firmware MCU 1.27 DSP 0.99 dated Nov.14.2012.* * * *In Instruction 6 of the Errata, referencing Page A3 - And I quote: Page A3 (parts List), Front Panel (Top Cover) Hardware E850532 list, part number E700259: (When I locate envelope E850532, it describes it as KX3 Control Panel Bag and NOT Front Panel (Top Cover) Hardware.) AND there is NO E700259 on **Page A3 or anywhere else in the parts inventory list that I can find.* * @.) - Change the description of part number E700259 to E700277 Again, there is no E700259 listed. But there is already a listing for part number E700277 a little further down: it's for a #2-56 x 9/32 (7.2mm) Flat Head Screw.* * @.) - Change the description to: #2-56 x 9/32 (7.2mm) Flat Head Screw Part Number E700277 is ALREADY described as #2-56 x 9/32 (7.2mm) Flat Head Screw.* * * *I confused and I'll be the first to admit that is not very difficult to do! * * * *Do I have the correct Assembly Manual and the correct Errata for S/N 2917? Also my Owner's Manual is Rev. B4, dated June 1, 2012 and my Errata is rev. B4-1, dated June 1, 2012. Is this the correct Owner's Manual Errata for S/N 2917? * * * *I also submit that once a description has been assigned to an envelope and/or a kit, that same description be utilized throughout all manuals. It will cut down some confusion for us not so experienced in kit building.* * * *Best 72/73.* *Jim...* *WA4NTM* * * On Fri, Nov 30, 2012 at 6:37 PM, Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft e...@elecraft.com wrote: Hi Jim, No need to bcc myself or others at Elecraft on these emails as we also see the ones going through the reflector. Thanks for the positive comments! Hope you have fun with your new KX3! 73, Eric --- www.elecraft.com On 11/30/2012 1:37 PM, Jim Harris wrote: *Folks.* * KX3-K S/N 2917 ordered on the Internet 21 Nov. 2012, delivered in north central Alabama on 30 Nov. 2012 by UPS. Now the fun begins! This KX3-K has all of the available kits.* * * *My hearty THANKS go out to Richard - Parts, Lisa - Sells, April - [? - sorry April], Sofia - * *[? - sorry Sofia] and ALL the packers. Naturally I do not want to leave out Eric and Wayne. SUPER JOB all of you!* * * *Stay tuned and I will let you know how this turns out. * * * *Best 72/73.* *Jim* *WA4NTM* *K1 - S/N 2580* *KX3-K - S/N 2917* *K2/100 Twins - S/N 6405* *K3-K - S/N 2802* * * __**__**__ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/**mailman/listinfo/elecrafthttp://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.**htmhttp://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:elecr...@mailman.qth.**net Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] hEADPHONE'S RECEIVE LEVEL?
*Howdy, Folks.* * * *Thanks for correcting the error of ways. The MON adjustment did the trick. * * * *Thanks for all that replied. I appreciate each and every one of the responses.* * * *Best 73!* *Jim* *WA4NTM* * * On Wed, Oct 10, 2012 at 3:14 PM, david Moes dm...@nexicom.net wrote: Hi Jim I dont believe that there is a menu item for separate level control for the headphones relative to the speaker volume. to adjust the transmit monitor level for sending either CW or phone hold in the power control knob for half a second and it will now adjust monitor level tap it to return to its normal operation. note the Monitor label in yellow under that contol On 10/10/2012 3:08 PM, Jim Harris wrote: *Good afternoon, Friends.* ** *I would like to turn down the volumn in my headset so when I send CW or when I change bands. I know there must be a Menu setting within my K3 to do this but I can't locate it. I have the KE7X Manual, my Owners Manual, my Assembly Manual.* ** *Can someone please direct me to the setting so I can turn the level down to a more comfortable listening level in my Headphones.* ** *Thanks for any help you'll can give.* ** *Best 73.* *Jim.* *WA4NTM* *K3 - S/N 2802* __ 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 __ 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 __ 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
[Elecraft] Balun Ground Connection
Several days ago I responded to someone about a situation with their antenna and balun. I basically said my experience with an antenna at my station was that by connecting the ground on the balun to my station ground the SWR were to 25 and I had operated with the ground disconnected. I received several unsolicited remarks about my antenna system implying there were serious problems and that I should solicit help. I had said I would do some more checking. I connected my SWR meter through a one foot RG-8X coax to the SO-239 connector on the balun. Thereby eliminating all the station with it's coaxes and grounds leaving only the antenna, 400 ohm ladder line and balun connected. At 14.080 Mhz I measured SWR of 5.1:1. I connected the ground lung on the balun directly to the outside ground with four feet of wire and measured an SWR of 9.6:1. In relative terms of SWRs that is near the 25 that I had mentioned earlier. I disassembled the balun and checked it and all wiring and connections and found no problem. I reassembled the balun and retested with the same results. My opinion is the ground and associated wiring, when connected, is forming part of the antenna system thereby changing the SWR as would any metal object attached to the antenna system. Seems simple enough in a practical world. Therefore, it is my conclusion there was and remains no issue with my earlier statement concerning my experience. Yes, I would like to see a lower working SWR with the antenna system and the ground disconnected and I am working on that issue..having a different antenna to install this week. But that is a different issue from the original. I realize people are seriously trying to help. It would also seem that when help is not specifically solicited none should be offered. That will be my position in the future on this reflector. The Kool-Aid is too strong for me. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Balun Ground Connection
John, I found that by connecting the balun ground to my station ground I had 25 SWR on all bands. I just let it float..no problems so far. 73 Jim, W0EM Should I connect the balun, via the case stud, directly to station ground?? John VK7JB __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Balun Ground Connection
John, I'm not surprised at your findings in light of my experience. Regarding the ATUs being able to tune in this case, I'm not surprised. Elecraft tuners will match nearly a complete open and short...been there, done that. I really wish they were limited to something like 6:1 to prevent that. Above that SWR RF energy is grossly wasted, IMHO. It seems for some reason that I don't know about at the moment, when the balun case ground is connected to station ground it somehow makes a major change in the antenna/coax system. I've replaced most of the coax in all my antenna systems in the last month so I'm leaning toward some other explanation. When I get some spare time this weekend I will try to take a further look at it. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On Thu, 9/20/12, zen...@netspace.net.au zen...@netspace.net.au wrote: From: zen...@netspace.net.au zen...@netspace.net.au Subject: Re: Balun Ground Connection To: 'Jim Harris' jim.w...@yahoo.com, zen...@netspace.net.au, 'Elecraft Email' elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Thursday, September 20, 2012, 9:50 PM Hi Jim group I did an experiment today and tied the balun case/coax shield to station ground via the stud. I found 2 things: # 1 the manual tuner settings required for 1:1 match changed on all bands, but the KAT3 and manual tuner were still able to find a 1:1.0 match on all bands 80m - 10m. #2 where I had no detectable common mode current on the coax shield prior to connecting the balun to ground, I now have 15-20mA on 20 and 40m, as measured with my calibrated clip on ammeter. There's also now some RF on my tx audio, where before it was clean. I'm wondering if the coax shield between the balun and tuner IS functioning as part of this loop antenna system and grounding its shield before the tuner is introducing more imbalance? I'm no expert, but this is interesting. 73, John VK7JB Original Message -- John, I found that by connecting the balun ground to my station ground I had 25 SWR on all bands. I just let it float..no problems so far. 73 Jim, W0EM John VK7JB __ 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
[Elecraft] K2 - Sideband Issue??
Hi, My K2 S/N 47XX is about 6-7 years old and has functioned relatively well since I built it. A few days ago I attempted to use it to check into a local 10 meter net and was told I was on lower sideband. The display indicated upper sideband, U as it should on that band. The displayed frequency was the usual net frequency. I changed the mode to L and was still unable to check into the net. My initial thought was that the last time I adjusted the CAL FIL I had setup on the opposite sideband although I've used the radio since with good success. Then I remembered the OP1 filter is used for transmitting and is not adjustable so that seemed to rule out setting up on the opposite sideband. Im aware there is a frequency inversion on 15 meters and above and have though the problem might be associated with that. This past weekend in the Colorado QSO party I operated portable on 20 meters and logged 76 Q's so that band seems to be transmitting and receiving properly. I've reviewed the K2 troubleshooting procedures in the manual as well as some on line sources and have not found anything that relates to this problem. I sure would be appreciative to anyone who can shed some light on where to start to resolve this issue. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Any good experience/recommendations with boost regulators with K3?
Bob, I've successfully used a MFJ-4416B boost regulator with my K2 and K3. I started using it with my K2 as after 3 or so hours on a 40 AH battery I would start getting reports of distorted audio on phone. With the booster I could get another hour or two out of the battery. After I purchased a K3 I used it with it as well. Somewhere along the line I also purchased a 70 AH battery and the booster worked well with that also. I never received any reports of noise on my audio with the booster in use and did not find any noise or unusual birdies from the booster. Not to say it is a clean unit, just that I never had any reason to suspect it was generating RF noise. If you purchase the MFJ-4416 be sure you get the B version. The previous version would sometimes blow an internal fuse if you double clutched the PTT within 3-4 seconds of each other. I think MFJ is only selling the B version but there could be other versions on the used market. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Sort of off topic, but I was wondering if anyone has any positive experience using boost regulators fed from a lead acid battery to drive their K3? 73, Bob, WB4SON __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - Reliability
Eric, Thank you for your response. I appreciate the apology and readily accept it. I realize it is very difficult to meet all customer's expectations. One has to admire Elecraft's customer service philosophy. I will contact you via email off the reflector regarding your proposed hardware remedies. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On Sun, 8/5/12, Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft e...@elecraft.com wrote: From: Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft e...@elecraft.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 - Reliability To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Sunday, August 5, 2012, 12:45 AM Hi Jim, Wow, this certainly sounds like you have had bad luck. I'd like to personally apologize to you for the frustration you have felt. I'm at a loss about your comment about my reaction to your question at Dayton 2011. To be honest its been so long I don't recall the conversation. I do know that we are usually extremely busy at Dayton, especially when we are setting up and as the show is about to open. I can only guess that you may have misunderstood my response (or I misunderstood your question) and I was then interrupted by someone else, or had to complete an urgent task, which prevented us from talking further at that point. If I don't have the answer to a support or technical question at shows, I usually do recommend that support is contacted again, as they see a lot more K3s than Wayne or I ever will. I also frequently try to direct people to a specific support engineer when I can determine if they have better knowledge of a particular problem. Its amazing what problems Gary, Dale, Richard, Howard and the rest of the crew can quickly recognize and correct. But I would never brush someone off purposely. I also take pains to be polite to everyone. I'm always available for a direct call too if someone is not getting what they need to solve a problem from our support team. I feel very badly that you were left with this impression from our conversation. Would it be OK for me to call you on Monday to discuss your problems? If you are currently unhappy with the state of your current K3, we will gladly exchange it with a new production K3 with the same options at our cost. Regards, Eric WA6HHQ --- www.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
[Elecraft] K3 - Reliability
Bill and others, With all the discussion about problems with the KX3 and K3 I feel is is timely to discuss the problems with my K3 and Elecraft's response. My K3 arrived as the usual modular kit and is in the 34xx serial numbers. I've had it three years this coming September (9/2012). Details of failures are as below. 1. Upon receipt the DSP PCB had 8+ volt buss shorted to ground. Elecraft replaced the PCB and it was up and working about two weeks after ordering. 2. Excessive current indication. Elecraft sent a replacement HPA that did not correct the problem. The replacment HPA had two capacitors hanging off the side. Returned the K3 to Elecraft and they found a drive transistor in the LPA was defective. 3. Loss of sensitivity at turn on. Took about twenty minutes to reach full sensitivity. After many weeks of back and forth discussions, Elecraft sent a relay which I installed. It did not help. Sent the K3 back to Elecraft. They found a defective solder joint on the RF board. They installed several updates. Elecraft extended the warranty to 18 months. 4. CONFIG menu was scrambled. The adjustable items did not line up with the item it was to adjust. Wayne at Elecraft got involved after several exchanges with support. Finally resolved by doing a complete reset and installing all new software. Had to recalibrate all functions and reset all adjustables in the menu as the back up was also corrupted. 5. Power adjustment was erratic. Sometimes it took five or more complete turns to change power from about 30 to 100 watts. Other adjustments controlled by that encoder seemed to work okay. Again, it took weeks back and forth with support. They finally shipped a new encoder which I installed and that corrected the problem. 6. ATU would not tune. No relay action at all. The ATU was not in bypass. After instruction from support to recalibrate several functions and perform other tests, it begun to function properly. I'm wondering if this K3 has had the gold pin modification. Got near simultaneous responses from three different individuals in support when I emailed about the problem. Some troubleshooting overlapped but the varying directions from three different technicians was confusing. Do they have a triage system with one technician assigned to work a problem? 7. Concentrite knobs near the microphone connector cracked. I took the K3 to Field Day and when I removed it from it's Pelican like case after returning, the knobs were cracked. Support sent replacements. The replacements are a matt black and the other knobs are glossy black. The replacements color and finish look weird compared to the originals that remain on the radio. I and elecraft have been unable to determine if the frequency response modification has been done. The radio was shipped at about the time the modification was begun. It appears to have different capacitors from earlier PCB's but there was no daughter board installed. I installed a daughter board myself. I also have a K2 and several mini-kits. The k2 has had no major failures. But I've calibrated the dial and set the filters several times. At the Dayton Hamvention in 2011 I attempted to discuss the radio with Eric. His response was to call support and he turned away. I realize it was at opening time but a can you get back with me after we get open would have been received much better. I have worked the Elecraft booth at the Hamvention and operated an Elecraft table at local swapfests for several years. After the above listed problems, the extended time to resolve some of the problems and the exchange at the Hamvention I will no longer give my time to support Elecraft. When my finances allow I will be replacing the K3 as my main radio with another brand. I realize this may be a solitatiion for flames from those innebrated with the Elecraft kool-aid. I once was a great fan of Elecraft but that has fallen by the way side with this K3. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM I have been reading the posts about the KX3 and it brings up a question about K3 reliability. Prior to my purchase of a K3 last winter, I did all the usual research on reflectors and boards. I was looking for real-life user information and experiences. What impressed me most was the lack of reported serious failures - those requiring a visit to the factory. I do know that some K3s have required factory level warranty repairs. The question is: how many or what percentage. And, is there a particular problem(s) that appears often. Most rigs, after being on the market for a period of time, have known short comings. Not so for the K3. I have read nothing that indicates a chronic problem(s). Based on the above, I purchased and built a K3. Five months after completion - the rig is at the factory awaiting warranty repair (dark display with MCU LD shown). Needless to say, I do question the K3's reliability factor and would
[Elecraft] Field Day
Hi, Took my K3 to Field Day again this year and ran mostly RTTY. Made about 130 Q's which is about normal for Field Day. We operated on the dry, dusty and hot plains east of Colorado Springs CO. Wondering if anyone has a good and thorough cleaning scheme for the K3 and P3? They picked up a lot of dust and grim and I want to clean them well before installing them back into the shack. BTW, add another weird malfunction to those this radio has already experienced. When first powered up at the Field Day site when RIT was pressed the LCD brightness menu would display. PF1 is set up for a different function for those thinking I was holding the button too long. After shutting everything down and restarting it worked fine. This K3 has had some weird problems in the past with all of them confirmed. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] KAT3 not responding to ATU Tune Button
Bill, Had that exact same issue 3-4 months ago. Support had me do several calibrations including the power calibrations followed by several tests. After several back and forths with support it suddenly started working again and has worked okay since. One of the things they had me do was turn off the KPA3 and try and tune just with the LPA. I'm not sure what eventually fixed it. Might try the power calibration and the KPA3 off and on and see what happens. My s/n is 34xxdon't know if yours is close. BTW, My K3 has had six major failures in about two and a half years including DOA. It has been to Elecraft twice and they have sent parts to me three times to repair it. Sometimes support has been hard to convince the radio had problems. But all problems have been confirmed eventually. It has been down literally for several months total, so good luck with a quick repair from support. Has anyone experienced this? After years of faithful service the ATU Tune button on my K3/100 has stopped responding. I can switch between antennas 1 and 2, step through the Ls and Cs, and bypass the ATU, all in the configuration menu but not with the front panel button. I tried a reset but no joy. I'd be grateful for any suggestions for further diagnostics, of better still, a cure. Thanks Bill AD6JV Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Placement and Cooling
Bill, Be very careful of placing anything on the left side of the K3. From experience I can tell you the screw heads on the K3 handle WILL severely scratch anything they touch. A replacement panel for the P3 is about $30.00 shipped. I don't know if there are other limitations but I do know about this one. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Are there any limitations in the placement of the K-line equipment regarding side-by-side placement? What about top clearance? Bill W2BLC __ 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
[Elecraft] JPS NIR-12 with K3 IN RTTY Contest
Hi to everyone, Some may recall that a couple of weeks ago I asked about hooking up a JPS NIR-12 DSP between my K3 and computer for RTTY contesting. The idea was to try to clean up the signal a bit more before the sound card prcesses it. I under took this after learning that at least one prominent RTTY contester does this with excellent results. But, for me, in a few words it didn't work out very well even though I tested it prior to the RTTY Roundup contest. There may have been some extenuating circumstances as after again hooking the audio straight from the K3 to the computer there still seemed to be some muddiness without totally clean decoding. I will have to do some more troubleshooting on that. Once I get that sorted out I am going to try the DSP again. If I make progress I will report back for those interested. I might add that the K3 with my K2 in a SO2R combination was not a total disaster as I had 917 contacts in about 18 hours of operating. I used a Heathkit active filter between the K2 and the computer and found it greatly helped clean up the audio making decode in MMTTY the best I've seen in some years of RTTY contesting. I used it in combination with some DSP processing and XFIL RF3 in the K2. It would have been nice if the MMTTY decoding of the K3 audio had been as good. Sorry for the bandwidth, but one thing I might add. I use ear buds with a small commercially available combiner box to listen to the audio from each radio. Shortly before the contest I realized I had a giant ground loop someplace. After trouble shooting I found it was caused by the box grounding the two radio's together. A hastily put together isolation transformer solved that. Constructive thought and comments always appreciated. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] control knobs lously
Hi, I had a similar problem with setting power. Sometimes it would take several turns to get the power set where I wanted it especially after the radio had been on for a while. It took over six months to convince Elecraft there was a problem. Finally, they send a new power encoder which I installed. Works as it should now. Be sure you are well versed in soldering before tackling it. Your problem may could be something different. Keep it in front of support is my best advice. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Message: 1 Date: Sun, 25 Dec 2011 09:07:28 -0800 (PST) From: ussv dharma ussvdha...@yahoo.com Subject: [Elecraft] control knobs lously To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 1324832848.13945.yahoomail...@web120904.mail.ne1.yahoo.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 when adjusting the knob (power level) the value jumps up, down, slow, fast, all over the place.? Sent rig back for upgrade ...came back and this is still a problem...anyone else have this? Susan Meckley, Skipper W7KFI-mm? AFA9SM USSV DHARMA __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 RTTY Audio Thru External DSP
Doug, Thank you very much for the input. Even though your DSP is a different brand from mine, the hookup information is valuable. Sometime this week I will try to find time to get it hooked up and maybe I can find some RTTY on the bands for testing. I'm sure I will need to go to the local electronics store for cables and connectors to get it all connected together. A good excuse for warming up the soldering iron. Just for funs and grins I also have a Heathkit Active Audio Filter, model HD-1418, hooked up to my K2 which is the second radio in my RTTY contesting SO2R setup. With our postage stamp size lot of 80 X 90 feet in a residential area I don't have the luxury of big antennas so I tend to have low signal levels and high noise. I'm really hoping these additions are going to help bump the RTTY score up a bit. For those that have seen Don, W3FPR's response to my previous message. We have corresponded off line and I think we are on the same wavelength. Both of us are waiting to see how this idea will work out. Thanks guys for the input. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On Sun, 12/25/11, D Joyce d_jo...@sympatico.ca wrote: From: D Joyce d_jo...@sympatico.ca Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 RTTY Audio Thru External DSP To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com, Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Sunday, December 25, 2011, 1:57 PM GM Jim and Merry Christmas Yes I'm using a pair of TimeWave units between the K3 line output and the microKeyer II primarily for dual channel RTTY operation. Both of these units provide an adjustable dual channel passband which can be centered on the standard tone pair frequencies. Specifically the Main Rx audio goes from the Tip on the K3 Line output to the Line input on a DSP-599ZX and then from the DSP-599ZX Line output to the audio cable labeled line out on the K3R cable going to the microKeyer II. I'm also running a cable from the DSP-599ZX speaker output to a small 2 mini speaker to be able to separately monitor the main channel audio. Then for the subRx audio, I take the signal from the Ring on the K3 Line output to the Audio Input on the DSP-59+ and from from the DSP-59+ Line Output to the Tip on the audio connector on the microKeyer II labeled Sub Rx. I had the TimeWave units and decided to hook them up this way to provide independent control of the two audio channels for dual RTTY operation. I'm using MMTTY within DX4Win for the main channel and I open a separate instance of MMTTY for the subreceiver audio. This setup works very well for RTTY DX'ng and has resulted in being able to spot stations very quickly and work the DX. 73, Doug VE3MV - Original Message - From: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com To: Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, December 24, 2011 5:08 PM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 RTTY Audio Thru External DSP Hi to the group and Merry Christmas Has anyone used an external DSP (noise reduction) between the output of the K3 and a computer sound card? What was your experience with it? Before telling me the K3 provides all the noise reduction needed, remember the NR is turned off in digital modes. I'm contemplating using a JPS NIR-12, Noise/Interference Reduction Unit. If anyone has any experience with this setup how did you hook it up? Which output from the K3 did you use; headphone, speaker or lineout? Which output from the DSP; headphone, speaker or lineout? Did you use or find necessary to use an isolation transformer between the K3 and the DSP and the computer sound card? My primary concern is to prevent ground loops. The NIR-12 schematic appears not to have any isolation on the outputs as does the K3 on the lineout. I would appreciate any meaningful comments. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 RTTY Audio Thru External DSP
Hi to the group and Merry Christmas Has anyone used an external DSP (noise reduction) between the output of the K3 and a computer sound card? What was your experience with it? Before telling me the K3 provides all the noise reduction needed, remember the NR is turned off in digital modes. I'm contemplating using a JPS NIR-12, Noise/Interference Reduction Unit. If anyone has any experience with this setup how did you hook it up? Which output from the K3 did you use; headphone, speaker or lineout? Which output from the DSP; headphone, speaker or lineout? Did you use or find necessary to use an isolation transformer between the K3 and the DSP and the computer sound card? My primary concern is to prevent ground loops. The NIR-12 schematic appears not to have any isolation on the outputs as does the K3 on the lineout. I would appreciate any meaningful comments. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 High Stability Ref. Oscillator!
*Good morning, All.* * * *I have K3 [S/N2802] with the latest Firmware installed. I'm also using the K3 Utility rev. 1.4.10.11.* * * *When I ordered my kit, I also ordered the KTCX03-1 [0.5ppm] High Stability Ref. Oscillator. When I received this particular kit, with it came a data sheet for the KTCXO3-1 with freqs at certain temperatures. The then K3 Utility revision had a link that allowed me to input the data from that accompanying sheet into the K3.* * * *Has this link been removed? Why, is it no longer required? Am I missing it within the current K3 Utility?* * * *Merry CHRISTmas Happy New Year!* * * *Thanks best 73.* * * *Jim.* *WA4NTM * __ 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
[Elecraft] XG3 question
Hi, I have a need for a 72.9 MHz signal source that can be heard on an FM receiver. The question is does the XG3 cover that frequency and can it's output cause any kind of an indication on an FM receiver. I'm not looking for intelligent audio from the receiver.just a buzz, hiss of anything to indicate that the source is being received. Thanks in advance. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP
Mike, Looks like Don was right. I haven't done an on air test with another station yet but comparing my K2 K3 they now are the same after I changed the sidebands. Hopefully, I can get an on air test in a day or so with a friend to confirm all is well. In spite of my best effort I guess I goofed it up the first time. I've been unable to find clear instructions in the assembly manual nor other instructions available on the internet on what values are correct for the BFO and DAC values. Those values are in the assembly manual for LSB/USB and CW and it's reverse but not for RTTY. I guess I had a one in two chance of getting it right and didn't do well on the odds. Looks like I have plenty of range on my radio so that doesn't seem to be an issue here. I still don't understand why the upper bands were correct and the lower were not. Hopefully both are now correct. Live and learn. Thank you for your input. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM From: Mike Murray w0agm...@gmail.com To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Sent: Sunday, July 17, 2011 6:52 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP Jim, Don was right on with his response - I had exactly the same problem with my K2 even though I thought I had carefully setup the filters. Turned out I didn't have enough VFO low end range to get them set correctly. Searched the archives and found Don's suggestion to pad U11 to change it. Seems to have worked correctly since the VFO values now correspond to LSB/USB values but haven't had a chance to try on the air. Thanks again Don!!! 73, Mike - W0AG On Sun, Jul 17, 2011 at 6:29 PM, Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com wrote: Don, That was the leading suspect in my mind. But I tried very hard to assure they were correct when I set them up. I still don't grasp why the upper band was correct and the lower were opposite. I realize there is an inversion of side bands up there but I thought it was a simple inversion which to me means they should have behaved as did the lower but maybe opposite from the lower on receive and transmit. I will follow your instructions and see how they work out. As always, thank you for your assistance. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM From: Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Sunday, July 17, 2011 10:52 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP Jim, I suspect you have the sidebands inverted in your RTTY filter set. Do the following with the K2 set to a band lower than 15 meters, First set the FL1 filter to use the OP1 filter on the KSB2 board, and that filter along with its BFO settings will be used for transmit. Set RTTY the same as your SSB FL1 settings - the BFO setting for RTTY should be the same as LSB, and the RTTYr BFO should be the same as USB. The other filters are created from the variable bandwidth filter. I usually set FL2 to 1.00, FL3 to 0.70, FL4 to 0.40, and center these 3 filters at 1000 Hz. - use Spectrogram MMTTY mark frequency is set at 915 Hz to be compatible. Check the BFO frequencies for RTTY and RTTYr - normally the RTTY BFO frequency will be in the vicinity of 4914.xx and the RTTYr BFO will be near 4912.xx if you are using 1000 Hz as the center frequency. Higher center frequencies may be possible, but you may run into difficulty with limits of the BFO range for RTTYr. The K2 reverses its mixing scheme on 15 meters and above - below 15 meters the VFO and BFO subtract while on 15 and above the VFO and BFO add. The K2 automatically swaps sidebands for you, but it will not come out right on all bands if the sidebands have been inverted in the filter settings. 73, Don W3FPR On 7/17/2011 11:14 AM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, I ran into a problem during the just completed NAQP RTTY contest with my Elecraft K2. To make a very long and frustrating story short, on at least 20 and 40 meters it receives on the lower side band but transmits on the upper sideband. On 15 meters it receives and transmits on the same sideband which appears to be the lower sideband. The only way I was able to get it to transmit on the same sideband on the two bands mentioned was to put the radio into RTTY reverse (with CW REV) and then operate MMTTY in REV. As a result of the problem I lost about three hours in the contest while troubleshooting the problem. If someone can shed (and I'm sure they can) some light on this perplexity, I would very much appreciate it. This was my first serious attempt to do SO2R. I used my K3 for the right radio and the K2 for the left. I had aligned the RTTY filters in the K2 using the procedures found on the internet and used Spectogram. I tried to be careful to set them on the correct sideband. I can accept that maybe I didn't get that done right and will recheck them. But, I don't understand why
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP
Don, Thank you for the suggestion. I've already done that and it looks like both are now the same. I want to do an on air test before getting near another RTTY contest so I will have to time tweak anything before I have another panic during a contest. I still don't understand why 15 meters was okay and 20 and 40 meters were not. I know about the inversion of side bands at 17 meters and above. But in my thinking the problem should have occurred there as well but on opposite side bands. Thank you again for your help. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM From: Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: w0agm...@gmail.com w0agm...@gmail.com; Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net; w3...@embraqmail.com w3...@embraqmail.com Sent: Monday, July 18, 2011 11:10 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP Jim, You have both the K2 and the K3, so you don't have to wait for an actual on the air test. Connect the K2 to a dummy load, and connect a short antenna to the K3 - place the antenna close enough to the dummy load to give about an S-9 indication on the K3. Transmit with the K2 and listen with the K3 - you will know immediately whether it works or not. 73, Don W3FPR On 7/18/2011 12:44 PM, Jim Harris wrote: Mike, Looks like Don was right. I haven't done an on air test with another station yet but comparing my K2 K3 they now are the same after I changed the sidebands. Hopefully, I can get an on air test in a day or so with a friend to confirm all is well. In spite of my best effort I guess I goofed it up the first time. I've been unable to find clear instructions in the assembly manual nor other instructions available on the internet on what values are correct for the BFO and DAC values. Those values are in the assembly manual for LSB/USB and CW and it's reverse but not for RTTY. I guess I had a one in two chance of getting it right and didn't do well on the odds. __ 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
[Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP
Hi Folks, I ran into a problem during the just completed NAQP RTTY contest with my Elecraft K2. To make a very long and frustrating story short, on at least 20 and 40 meters it receives on the lower side band but transmits on the upper sideband. On 15 meters it receives and transmits on the same sideband which appears to be the lower sideband. The only way I was able to get it to transmit on the same sideband on the two bands mentioned was to put the radio into RTTY reverse (with CW REV) and then operate MMTTY in REV. As a result of the problem I lost about three hours in the contest while troubleshooting the problem. If someone can shed (and I'm sure they can) some light on this perplexity, I would very much appreciate it. This was my first serious attempt to do SO2R. I used my K3 for the right radio and the K2 for the left. I had aligned the RTTY filters in the K2 using the procedures found on the internet and used Spectogram. I tried to be careful to set them on the correct sideband. I can accept that maybe I didn't get that done right and will recheck them. But, I don't understand why the upper band is correct and the lower bands are not. BTW, I ran both radio's pretty hard at 100 watts and neither overheated. The K3 takes care of itself very well. I think one could go near brick down for several minutes and it would be fine. I used a hand held, point at an object, temp sensor with the K2 and the highest heat sink temp I measured was about 100 F..usually it was 10-20 degrees lower. I have manually adjustable variable speed four inch muffin fans mounted about three inches above each radio and ran them continuously at about half speed during the contest. With a little external help I see no problem in running the K2 at 100 watts FB in RTTY contesting. Thanks for all the commits I'm sure I will receive. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP
Don, That was the leading suspect in my mind. But I tried very hard to assure they were correct when I set them up. I still don't grasp why the upper band was correct and the lower were opposite. I realize there is an inversion of side bands up there but I thought it was a simple inversion which to me means they should have behaved as did the lower but maybe opposite from the lower on receive and transmit. I will follow your instructions and see how they work out. As always, thank you for your assistance. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM From: Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Sunday, July 17, 2011 10:52 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 Problem in NAQP Jim, I suspect you have the sidebands inverted in your RTTY filter set. Do the following with the K2 set to a band lower than 15 meters, First set the FL1 filter to use the OP1 filter on the KSB2 board, and that filter along with its BFO settings will be used for transmit. Set RTTY the same as your SSB FL1 settings - the BFO setting for RTTY should be the same as LSB, and the RTTYr BFO should be the same as USB. The other filters are created from the variable bandwidth filter. I usually set FL2 to 1.00, FL3 to 0.70, FL4 to 0.40, and center these 3 filters at 1000 Hz. - use Spectrogram MMTTY mark frequency is set at 915 Hz to be compatible. Check the BFO frequencies for RTTY and RTTYr - normally the RTTY BFO frequency will be in the vicinity of 4914.xx and the RTTYr BFO will be near 4912.xx if you are using 1000 Hz as the center frequency. Higher center frequencies may be possible, but you may run into difficulty with limits of the BFO range for RTTYr. The K2 reverses its mixing scheme on 15 meters and above - below 15 meters the VFO and BFO subtract while on 15 and above the VFO and BFO add. The K2 automatically swaps sidebands for you, but it will not come out right on all bands if the sidebands have been inverted in the filter settings. 73, Don W3FPR On 7/17/2011 11:14 AM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, I ran into a problem during the just completed NAQP RTTY contest with my Elecraft K2. To make a very long and frustrating story short, on at least 20 and 40 meters it receives on the lower side band but transmits on the upper sideband. On 15 meters it receives and transmits on the same sideband which appears to be the lower sideband. The only way I was able to get it to transmit on the same sideband on the two bands mentioned was to put the radio into RTTY reverse (with CW REV) and then operate MMTTY in REV. As a result of the problem I lost about three hours in the contest while troubleshooting the problem. If someone can shed (and I'm sure they can) some light on this perplexity, I would very much appreciate it. This was my first serious attempt to do SO2R. I used my K3 for the right radio and the K2 for the left. I had aligned the RTTY filters in the K2 using the procedures found on the internet and used Spectogram. I tried to be careful to set them on the correct sideband. I can accept that maybe I didn't get that done right and will recheck them. But, I don't understand why the upper band is correct and the lower bands are not. __ 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
[Elecraft] KX3 Questions?
*Good morning, All.* * * *Maybe the answers to my questions haven't been determined as of yet but here goes anyway.* * * *a.) - The power connection to the basic/barefoot KX3, will they be 30A Power Pole Connectors?* *b.) - What is the maximum amperage the basic/barefoot KX3 pull: gauge wire required?* *c.) - The power connection on the 100W Amp/Antenna Tuner combo, will they be 30A Power Poll Connectors?* *d.) - What is the maximum amperage the 100W Amp/Antenna Tuner pull? Or maybe a better question would be, what gauge wire will be required? I'm trying to prepare/pre-plan/pre-wire my shack and/or my S-10 pickup truck for the 100W KX3 combo.* *e.) - Will the 100W combo required external fusing [similar to my K2] or will all necessary fusing be internal [similar to the KPA500] to the new rig/amp combo?* * * *Thanks and best 73.* * * *Jim...* *WA4NTM* * * * * __ 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
[Elecraft] P3 Right Side Panel Scratched
Hi, Just a word of caution for anyone owning or anticipating purchasing a P3. If you position it on the left side of your radio the screws holding the carry strap WILL seriously scratch the P3's right side panel. While that to some may seem obvious it appeared to me that the strap was thick enough to prevent scratches. NOT. Support tells me to contact a person who's information I do not have in front of me at the moment, to purchase a replacement side panel. I have not contacted that person yet so I have no idea of availability and cost. I would like to strongly suggest a warning about the potential for scratching be put in the P3 manual. Maybe some sort of suggestion like taping the screw heads, using screws with a different head or some kind of bumper be included in the P3 manual. This situation may also apply to the other models of the K-Line as well. Users beware. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K2 for SO2R
Hi, Can anyone share their experience using a K2 as part of a SO2R station and especially for RTTY. Seems with it's sensitive receiver, at least on receive, it would be a good choice. I realize it is limited to AFSK only. The RTTY filters can be narrowed to 4-500 Hz. There has been considerable discussion in the past about operating high duty modes at power up to 100 watts. I've never understood if that is a real or imagined limitation. The other radio would be a K3. Thanks for any useful comments. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Radio Packing for Shipping
Hi to all, I've been reading the comments on packing radio's for shipping with considerable interest. I've spent many years in the packing and shipping world and offer a few comments here. Some years back I authored a several page paper on packing that has been on eHam and I've give permission for it to appear in a book on amateur radio. There are two aspects to consider when shipping. First is to obviously protect the item, radio in this case, from damage. The amount and type of packaging depends on fragility, weight and value of the item. As a broad and general guideline the average modern non-tube radio should have at least four inches of packing between the item and the outside of the box. Wrap the item in two inches of bubble wrap and place it in a corrugated box. Wrap that box in two more inches of bubble wrap and place in a second box. Notice there is no mention of packing peanuts. They settle 10-15 percent in transit and should only be used in corners and similar location and not as cushioning. Be sure nothing will move or rattle inside either box. Slightly over stuff the boxes. Use plenty of good quality packing tape, not cellophane or duct tape on the boxes. Put name, to and from addresses, phone number, RMA number etc in each box along with invoice and other paper work. Put the RMA number on the outside of the box. Up to six inches of cushioning may be needed depending on, again fragility, weight and value including double wall boxes or crates. Seek a professionals guidance if there is any question. Second is to assure you pack adequately so you can collect from the carrier should the item be damaged. All carriers publish similar packing guidelines. While an inch of packing may protect many items, if the item is NOT packed in accordance with the carriers guidelines you will be awarded the dreaded insufficient cushioning award from the carrier and the carrier will NOT pay an insurance claim. Regardless of the amount of insurance or who is responsible for the damage. Pack in accordance with the carriers guidelines. (See their websites for guidelines.) Without doing so may result in damage and denial of a claim if there is damage. BTW, do buy insurance. It's cheap when compared to the overall cost of your radio. If there is damage be prepared to substantiate the insured value. Don't be so foolish as to poorly pack a $2000 radio, insure it for $5000 and expect to receive the full insured amount when it's damaged. The carriers have heard and denied every scheme you can imagine. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 APF Problem
Vic and all, This morning I've reloaded all the K3 firmware and the problem has disappeared. Guess the third time loading is the charm. Two suggestions for those that make decisions. Put a feature in the utility to load only certain firmware rather than a complete reload. There is a feature to upload only new revisions but nothing to reload only a single firmware. Second, zip a complete set of compatible firmware files into one file, unzip it in the utility and load from those files only. This could eliminate the problem I had that took several emails and three days to correct. Of course, individual files could be left on the server for those desiring to download individual files. The APF does give a peak to weaker CW so it is a definite improvement. I noticed very little ringing. It makes the audio sound a bit more crisp making it easier to hear. Guess that is a result of enhancing the Q someplace as has been previously discussed. Vic, thank you for helping resolve the problem with my K3. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Message: 31 Date: Sun, 30 Jan 2011 17:00:57 -0800 From: Vic K2VCO v...@rakefet.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Fw: K3 APF Problem To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4d4609c9.20...@rakefet.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Make sure DTBL0014.HEX is in the folder along with the DSP files. That's the DSP table for DSP 2.71. Then reload the DSP. I think this is the same kind of problem that you had with the FP -- out-of-sync files. __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 APF Problem
My thanks to Eric and all who pointed out the Advanced Mode in the View menu. I use the utility infrequent so I was unaware of that feature. Live and learn, and I say that in a positive way. I think this thread can now be put to bed. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On Mon, 1/31/11, Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft e...@elecraft.com wrote: From: Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft e...@elecraft.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 APF Problem To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net, v...@rakefet.com Date: Monday, January 31, 2011, 6:21 PM If you enable advanced mode in the utility preferences, you can chose to only load specific files. Be careful with this, as DSP, CPU, FPF files etc from a release must all match the release set. That's why we recommend clicking on the 'load all files' button. 73, Eric WA6HHQ --- On 1/31/2011 10:04 AM, Jim Harris wrote: Vic and all, This morning I've reloaded all the K3 firmware and the problem has disappeared. Guess the third time loading is the charm. Two suggestions for those that make decisions. Put a feature in the utility to load only certain firmware rather than a complete reload. There is a feature to upload only new revisions but nothing to reload only a single firmware. Second, zip a complete set of compatible firmware files into one file, unzip it in the utility and load from those files only. This could eliminate the problem I had that took several emails and three days to correct. Of course, individual files could be left on the server for those desiring to download individual files. The APF does give a peak to weaker CW so it is a definite improvement. I noticed very little ringing. It makes the audio sound a bit more crisp making it easier to hear. Guess that is a result of enhancing the Q someplace as has been previously discussed. Vic, thank you for helping resolve the problem with my K3. __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 APF Problem
Vic, Thank you for the response. You may be heading me in the right direction. I had the K3 Utility download the latest of all the firmware's from the website and told it to install them. It shows it downloaded and installed FPF 1.09. You mention it should be 1.14. I'll try to find it on the site, download and install it and see what happens. Strange that what should apparently be the latest release is not directly available when the Utility checks the website. That creates problems for people like me. I'll post results when there is something new. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Date: Sat, 29 Jan 2011 17:18:53 -0800 From: Vic K2VCO v...@rakefet.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 APF Problem??? To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4d44bc7d.8030...@rakefet.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Make sure that the front panel code is also updated. The proper version for 4.25 is 1.14. Also make sure the proper DSP table is present when you update; it should be DTBL0014.HEX. If all the versions aren't synchronized you can have problems like you describe. On 1/29/2011 2:27 PM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, After watching the progress of APF for a few months I decided it was time to upgrade to the latest firmware (4.25) and give it a try. When pressing the DUAL PB there is a LOUD clip and the CW is gone. Turning the SHIFT control products one LOUD clip for each 50 Hz step. I went to CONFIG and could not find DUEL PB to ascertain APF was selected. Now this gets complicated so follow closely. There is no DUEL PB in the VFO B space between DIGOUT1 and EXT ALC as the latest manual (D9 - Pg 55) indicates there should be. However, when EXT ALC is selected APF is show in VFO A. It appears that in my K3 all values in the second column of the manual (displayed in VFO A) beginning with EXT ALC is shifted up one entry from the first column of the manual (displayed in VFO B). BTW, turning VFO A knob does change the VFO A display from APF to DUEL PB and back again when in EXT ALC. I have taken a picture and will be happy to display it someplace if anyone is interested in seeing it. I've read the verbiage on page 35 about APF and there is nothing there that seems to help. Anyone have any ideas or can tell me what I'm doing wrong. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Fw: K3 APF Problem
Vic, As you suspected the problem with the menu misalignment was the front panel firmware revision. Somehow yesterday when I had the utility download all the latest firmware it downloaded 1.09. Today it found 1.14. I've installed it and the menu problem is resolved. Strange how it found the right one today but not yesterday. However, function of the APF is unchanged from what I've described below. That is a loud clip when engaged, CW disappears and then when rotating the shift control there is a loud clip when each 50 Hz step is incremented. I've read the manual to no help. Any clues from anyone would be helpful and appreciated. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On Sun, 1/30/11, Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Subject: K3 APF Problem To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net, v...@rakefet.com Date: Sunday, January 30, 2011, 10:40 PM Vic, Thank you for the response. You may be heading me in the right direction. I had the K3 Utility download the latest of all the firmware's from the website and told it to install them. It shows it downloaded and installed FPF 1.09. You mention it should be 1.14. I'll try to find it on the site, download and install it and see what happens. Strange that what should apparently be the latest release is not directly available when the Utility checks the website. That creates problems for people like me. I'll post results when there is something new. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Date: Sat, 29 Jan 2011 17:18:53 -0800 From: Vic K2VCO v...@rakefet.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 APF Problem??? To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4d44bc7d.8030...@rakefet.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Make sure that the front panel code is also updated. The proper version for 4.25 is 1.14. Also make sure the proper DSP table is present when you update; it should be DTBL0014.HEX. If all the versions aren't synchronized you can have problems like you describe. On 1/29/2011 2:27 PM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, After watching the progress of APF for a few months I decided it was time to upgrade to the latest firmware (4.25) and give it a try. When pressing the DUAL PB there is a LOUD clip and the CW is gone. Turning the SHIFT control products one LOUD clip for each 50 Hz step. I went to CONFIG and could not find DUEL PB to ascertain APF was selected. Now this gets complicated so follow closely. There is no DUEL PB in the VFO B space between DIGOUT1 and EXT ALC as the latest manual (D9 - Pg 55) indicates there should be. However, when EXT ALC is selected APF is show in VFO A. It appears that in my K3 all values in the second column of the manual (displayed in VFO A) beginning with EXT ALC is shifted up one entry from the first column of the manual (displayed in VFO B). BTW, turning VFO A knob does change the VFO A display from APF to DUEL PB and back again when in EXT ALC. I have taken a picture and will be happy to display it someplace if anyone is interested in seeing it. I've read the verbiage on page 35 about APF and there is nothing there that seems to help. Anyone have any ideas or can tell me what I'm doing wrong. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Fw: K3 APF Problem
Vic, I'm not sure which folder you are speaking of that the hex file should be in but I'm suspecting it needs to load with the other DSP firmware. As best I can remember I think I saw that file load with the other DSP files. I'm away from the radio now but tomorrow I will reload the DSP firmware and watch for that hex file to load. Thank you for your patience and help. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On Mon, 1/31/11, Vic K2VCO v...@rakefet.com wrote: From: Vic K2VCO v...@rakefet.com Subject: Re: Fw: K3 APF Problem To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Monday, January 31, 2011, 1:00 AM Make sure DTBL0014.HEX is in the folder along with the DSP files. That's the DSP table for DSP 2.71. Then reload the DSP. I think this is the same kind of problem that you had with the FP -- out-of-sync files. On 1/30/2011 3:02 PM, Jim Harris wrote: Vic, As you suspected the problem with the menu misalignment was the front panel firmware revision. Somehow yesterday when I had the utility download all the latest firmware it downloaded 1.09. Today it found 1.14. I've installed it and the menu problem is resolved. Strange how it found the right one today but not yesterday. However, function of the APF is unchanged from what I've described below. That is a loud clip when engaged, CW disappears and then when rotating the shift control there is a loud clip when each 50 Hz step is incremented. I've read the manual to no help. Any clues from anyone would be helpful and appreciated. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On *Sun, 1/30/11, Jim Harris /jim.w...@yahoo.com/* wrote: From: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Subject: K3 APF Problem To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net, v...@rakefet.com Date: Sunday, January 30, 2011, 10:40 PM Vic, Thank you for the response. You may be heading me in the right direction. I had the K3 Utility download the latest of all the firmware's from the website and told it to install them. It shows it downloaded and installed FPF 1.09. You mention it should be 1.14. I'll try to find it on the site, download and install it and see what happens. Strange that what should apparently be the latest release is not directly available when the Utility checks the website. That creates problems for people like me. I'll post results when there is something new. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Date: Sat, 29 Jan 2011 17:18:53 -0800 From: Vic K2VCO v...@rakefet.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 APF Problem??? To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4d44bc7d.8030...@rakefet.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Make sure that the front panel code is also updated. The proper version for 4.25 is 1.14. Also make sure the proper DSP table is present when you update; it should be DTBL0014.HEX. If all the versions aren't synchronized you can have problems like you describe. On 1/29/2011 2:27 PM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, After watching the progress of APF for a few months I decided it was time to upgrade to the latest firmware (4.25) and give it a try. When pressing the DUAL PB there is a LOUD clip and the CW is gone. Turning the SHIFT control products one LOUD clip for each 50 Hz step. I went to CONFIG and could not find DUEL PB to ascertain APF was selected. Now this gets complicated so follow closely. There is no DUEL PB in the VFO B space between DIGOUT1 and EXT ALC as the latest manual (D9 - Pg 55) indicates there should be. However, when EXT ALC is selected APF is show in VFO A. It appears that in my K3 all values in the second column of the manual (displayed in VFO A) beginning with EXT ALC is shifted up one entry from the first column of the manual (displayed in VFO B). BTW, turning VFO A knob does change the VFO A display from APF to DUEL PB and back again when in EXT ALC. I have taken a picture and will be happy to display it someplace if anyone is interested in seeing it. I've read the verbiage on page 35 about APF and there is nothing there that seems to help. Anyone have any ideas or can tell me what I'm doing wrong. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM -- Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA 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
[Elecraft] K3 APF Problem???
Hi Folks, After watching the progress of APF for a few months I decided it was time to upgrade to the latest firmware (4.25) and give it a try. When pressing the DUAL PB there is a LOUD clip and the CW is gone. Turning the SHIFT control products one LOUD clip for each 50 Hz step. I went to CONFIG and could not find DUEL PB to ascertain APF was selected. Now this gets complicated so follow closely. There is no DUEL PB in the VFO B space between DIGOUT1 and EXT ALC as the latest manual (D9 - Pg 55) indicates there should be. However, when EXT ALC is selected APF is show in VFO A. It appears that in my K3 all values in the second column of the manual (displayed in VFO A) beginning with EXT ALC is shifted up one entry from the first column of the manual (displayed in VFO B). BTW, turning VFO A knob does change the VFO A display from APF to DUEL PB and back again when in EXT ALC. I have taken a picture and will be happy to display it someplace if anyone is interested in seeing it. I've read the verbiage on page 35 about APF and there is nothing there that seems to help. Anyone have any ideas or can tell me what I'm doing wrong. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] spectrogram
Jim, Just downloaded the file and scanned it with AVG which said it is okay. Take pride in the USA. 73 Jim, W0EM Date: Thu, 30 Dec 2010 10:30:50 -0800 From: Jim Brown j...@audiosystemsgroup.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] spectrogram Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4d1ccfda.5000...@audiosystemsgroup.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Thanks for the alert, Rich, and for your report, Guy. I would appreciate any others. If it turns out to be real, I'll take it down. 73, Jim K9YC On 12/30/2010 5:42 AM, Rich - K1HTV wrote: Jim, FYI, when I downloaded the 'spectrogram.exe' file from your site I got a message from my Norton Security software that it contained TROJAN.ADH. I checked its definition and came up with: Trojan.ADH or Heuristic.ADH is a very harmful Trojan that will infect executable files on the compromised computer. Trojan.ADH and Heuristic.ADH are generic detection for a malicious files or computer virus with the same functionalities and payload once executed on the system. Not sure if it's a bogus message or is really a threat. 73, Rich - K1HTV __ 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
[Elecraft] TCXO - 0.5PPM
Hi Folks, Been kicking around putting the 0.5PPM TCXO in my K3. After doing some reading a question or two arises. The instructions sheet(s) for the TCXO mentions using method 1,2 or 3 in the K3 manual to set frequency. The K3 manual does not have a method 3 as I can find. I've checked the reflector archive and found there is a data input feature in the K3 utility for inputting data received with the TCXO. I think this equals method 3. Someone make a note to change instructions/manuals if needed. My question is do I need to do a method 1 or 2 before doing the data input? Method 1 is to use a freq counter. My freq counter is only about +/- 10 Htz depending on variables. Method 2 is zero beat. By ear the best I can get is about +/- 25 Htz. How close do I need to get with method 1 or 2 (if needed) before inputting the data? Second question, will the 0.5PPM TCXO eliminate the hysteresis I see during RTTY? Depending on whether I tune to a signal from low to high or high to low I can see 10+ Htz difference in the signals frequency. Or, are other factors at work? Constructive thoughts appreciated. Happy New Year. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] TCXO - 0.5PPM
Hi, Thank you Wayne, for your fast response. Seems I'm better off to stick with my stock TCXO as I've never had much luck with method 1 and 2. My K3 was in the shop 3-4 months ago and looks like Rene set it's frequency dead on. Happy New Year. 73 Jim, W0EM --- On Tue, 12/28/10, Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com wrote: From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] TCXO - 0.5PPM To: Jim Harris jim.w...@yahoo.com Cc: Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Tuesday, December 28, 2010, 6:24 PM At present, method 3 remains unimplemented. Fortunately the TCXO's uncorrected drift is already less than +/- 0.5 PPM from 0 to 50 C. This was the target for method 3. 73, Wayne N6KR On Dec 28, 2010, at 10:18 AM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, Been kicking around putting the 0.5PPM TCXO in my K3. After doing some reading a question or two arises. The instructions sheet(s) for the TCXO mentions using method 1,2 or 3 in the K3 manual to set frequency. The K3 manual does not have a method 3 as I can find. I've checked the reflector archive and found there is a data input feature in the K3 utility for inputting data received with the TCXO. I think this equals method 3. Someone make a note to change instructions/manuals if needed. My question is do I need to do a method 1 or 2 before doing the data input? Method 1 is to use a freq counter. My freq counter is only about +/- 10 Htz depending on variables. Method 2 is zero beat. By ear the best I can get is about +/- 25 Htz. How close do I need to get with method 1 or 2 (if needed) before inputting the data? Second question, will the 0.5PPM TCXO eliminate the hysteresis I see during RTTY? Depending on whether I tune to a signal from low to high or high to low I can see 10+ Htz difference in the signals frequency. Or, are other factors at work? Constructive thoughts appreciated. Happy New Year. 73 Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
[Elecraft] Volume Level with NR
Hi, I've noticed recently that when I press NR the volume level drops what could be called a considerable amount. I normally use NR setting of F-1-1 or -2. More than that tends to almost mute the receiver. I find that the volume control needs to be increased about 70 degrees or so to give the same loudness as before the NR was pressed with the above settings. I have to manually change the volume every time I engage or disengage the NR. I realize that most likely there should be some decrease in loudness but this seems to be excessive. Does anyone have any meaningful experience or recommendations they can pass along. Thank you. Take Pride in the USA! 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Volume Level with NR
Wayne, Thank you for your response. When I first got my radio I tried the F5 and up setting but found they, to me, muffled the audio. That was many revisions ago so I will give them another go. I've found in some instances it's better for me to not use the NR function than to use it and deal with it's situations. I'm sure an external sound meter would show a reduction in volume. Perhaps in software it's possible to add a comparable amount of gain to boost the volume. I've tried setting the audio control near max and riding the RF gain and the results are similar to RF gain fully up and riding the audio gain. BTW, a great notch function and a NB that really blanks noise. I probably use them more than the NR. Take Pride in the USA! 73, Jim, W0EM CC: elecraft@mailman.qth.net From: n...@elecraft.com To: w...@q.com Subject: Re: Volume Level with NR Date: Mon, 4 Oct 2010 09:13:54 -0700 Jim, Some drop in apparent volume level is typical with NR. Part of the drop is due to the removal of noise. Part of it may be a psychoacoustic effect (sorry, I'm not an expert on this). You might also try setting F5-1. Settings from F5-x to F8-x use a different algorithm. 73, Wayne N6KR On Oct 4, 2010, at 9:04 AM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi, I've noticed recently that when I press NR the volume level drops what could be called a considerable amount. I normally use NR setting of F-1-1 or -2. More than that tends to almost mute the receiver. I find that the volume control needs to be increased about 70 degrees or so to give the same loudness as before the NR was pressed with the above settings. I have to manually change the volume every time I engage or disengage the NR. I realize that most likely there should be some decrease in loudness but this seems to be excessive. Does anyone have any meaningful experience or recommendations they can pass along. Thank you. Take Pride in the USA! 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] P3 Questions
Thanks Lyle, Hot Diggidie,..the P3 is going to be some real fun. Amazing...amazing Elecraft products are totally outstanding. Way to go guys at Aptos and where ever else the rest of the crew might be. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM Date: Sat, 31 Jul 2010 14:33:51 -0700 From: k...@wavecable.com To: w...@q.com CC: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] P3 Questions ... Elecraft pictures of the P3 with the K3 shows it on the users right side of the radio. You can place the P3 on either side, your preference. The supplied cables are long enough to accommodate either placement. ...Does the P3 have enough resolution on the more narrow bandwidth sweeps to discern separate signals If the bandwidth is set narrow enough, you can easily see both peaks of an RTTY signal. 73, L:yle KK7P __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] P3 Questions
Andy, That is good info to know. That enforces my original thoughts. Thank you for sharing. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM From: andrewfa...@ymail.com To: w...@q.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] P3 Questions Date: Sat, 31 Jul 2010 15:10:41 -0700 Jim, I can't talk directly about the P3 and RTTY, but in WPX CW, I did use a prototype P3 at P49Y. Right next to it as the second radio was a 756 Pro2. The display on the P3 had a much finer resolution than the Pro2, which looked smoothed in comparison. Individual CW sigs were much narrower on the P3. 73, andy ae6y www.arubaqth.com -- From: Jim Harris w...@q.com Sent: Saturday, July 31, 2010 1:57 PM To: Elecraft Email elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] P3 Questions Hi, Obviously, I'm not a P3 owner but maybe Santa might change that. Last evening I perused the manual. This morning I was rambling through how it might be used in conjunction with my K3. Two questions came to mind that field testers and perhaps others might like to comment on. My favorite activity in amateur radio is RTTY contesting. Elecraft pictures of the P3 with the K3 shows it on the users right side of the radio. My thinking is it might be better on the left side as I use the mouse with my right hand and operate the radio with my left when RTTY contesting. It would seem the point and click and other functions on the P3 would be better accessed with my left hand than putting the radio on the right side and having to reach across with my left or move my right hand from the mouse to access the functions. I realize the side is an operators choice (I think) but I'm wondering if anyone has any meaningful experience or thoughts on the subject. That leads me to my second thought. My prior experience with a bandscope was with a ProIII. (It departed the shack several months ago.) To the best of my ability with it there was no way I could discern separate RTTY signals in a contest. Does the P3 have enough resolution on the more narrow bandwidth sweeps to discern separate signals in a contest or is just a big blurs as the ProIII. If separate signals are discernible in a contest is it possible to point and click on one with the P3, and perhaps with the AFC in MMTTY enabled, be able to near instantly work that signal? I realize there are most likely a lot of variables involved but the thought occurred to me the P3 might be able to add a new dimension to RTTY contesting for me and perhaps others. Perhaps I'm wishing for more than the P3 is capable of but constructive thoughts and ideas would be greatly appreciated. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
[Elecraft] P3 Questions
Hi, Obviously, I'm not a P3 owner but maybe Santa might change that. Last evening I perused the manual. This morning I was rambling through how it might be used in conjunction with my K3. Two questions came to mind that field testers and perhaps others might like to comment on. My favorite activity in amateur radio is RTTY contesting. Elecraft pictures of the P3 with the K3 shows it on the users right side of the radio. My thinking is it might be better on the left side as I use the mouse with my right hand and operate the radio with my left when RTTY contesting. It would seem the point and click and other functions on the P3 would be better accessed with my left hand than putting the radio on the right side and having to reach across with my left or move my right hand from the mouse to access the functions. I realize the side is an operators choice (I think) but I'm wondering if anyone has any meaningful experience or thoughts on the subject. That leads me to my second thought. My prior experience with a bandscope was with a ProIII. (It departed the shack several months ago.) To the best of my ability with it there was no way I could discern separate RTTY signals in a contest. Does the P3 have enough resolution on the more narrow bandwidth sweeps to discern separate signals in a contest or is just a big blurs as the ProIII. If separate signals are discernible in a contest is it possible to point and click on one with the P3, and perhaps with the AFC in MMTTY enabled, be able to near instantly work that signal? I realize there are most likely a lot of variables involved but the thought occurred to me the P3 might be able to add a new dimension to RTTY contesting for me and perhaps others. Perhaps I'm wishing for more than the P3 is capable of but constructive thoughts and ideas would be greatly appreciated. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 AM Power Setting: Was (no subject)
First let me apologize for sending out the first message without a subject. My mistake. I appreciate all the responses to my questions. While Grants information below sounds reasonable and may well be correct I would like to see something in the manual about how the AM power setting functions. It does seem unusual that I set 25 watts with AM mode selected and received a 56 report from 1200 miles away. That would mean that slightly over six watts was actually transmitted. Specifications of many other radio's speak of 25-40 watts for AM. The specifications and owners manual for the K3 does not address the details of AM power. And, I might add the same for FM. I would like to see Elecraft staff address this so there is no misunderstanding. CU in the Colorado QSO Party on September 4th, 2010. Jim, W0EM -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/no-subject-tp5199002p5202723.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] (no subject)
Hi, Recently I was able to do a QSO on AM for the first time using my K3. Yes, I have the 6 Khz filter installed. As I was setting power I found I could dial in about 100 watts the same as SSB. Realizing that would over work the PA I brought it back to 25 watts and had a very nice QSO with a good audio report. Afterward, I checked the specs and instructions in the Owner's Manual and could find nothing about AM power rating. What should be the power rating for the K3 when transmitting AM? Please put that information in the manual. Would it be possible to limit the AM power with a software update to eliminate the chance of transmitting a signal that might be illegal and/or to prevent possible damage to the KPA3? Thanks and have a great day. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K2AT to QRP Cover!
Good afternoon, Folks. I recently purchased a VERY FB K2/100 with KAT100 off e-Bay. It's an unbelievable rig as you all know. With it came the QRP Top Cover with the Speaker installed. I'm thinking about building and installing the KAT2 into this Cover so I can more easily carry it into the field or out to my patio. [I'm not a real kit builder (only a couple of kits under my belt) or tech type but more of a dare to dream kit builder: in other words, I'd like to give this build/installation a shot as a way of occupying my leisure time keeping me out of trouble. I'm 79! :-)] If this endeavor is more complicated than I envision, please feel free to say so and I will get a pro to do it for me. [I AM thinking of going with the pro wound Toroids by the Toroid Guy.] If it's thought this might be a do-able, then also please feel free to warn me of pitfalls you know about from your experience/s with this kit. Thanks Best 73. Jim. WA4NTM __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 Cooling
Hi Folks, Which way is the air flow supposed to be through the fans on the K3? Mine blows out, pulling air in from the slots in the top above the KPA3. (My K2 blows in.) The manual doesn't seem real clear on which way to install them in the K3. My K3 is nearing eight months old and doesn't seem to have a major cooling problem. But, I do some heavy RTTY contesting and I've occasionally seen the PA temp at over 60 degrees centigrade. I'm considering adding a fan on half inch stand offs from the bottom of the shelf above the radio to blow through the slots in the top of the K3. Will this disturb normal airflow around other components possibly causing them to overheat? In the past I installed an external fan on two off-shore radios and it seemed to improve cooling. I want to be sure I have the fans installed correctly and there would not be other problems before proceeding. Thanks everyone. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Cooling
Ken, The manual is NOT wrote to accommodate the industry accepted protocol for fans. Labels are not an accepted standard for direction of air flow. The industry standard is arrows embedded in the case of the fan indicating the direction of rotation and air movement. The manual doesn't tell me which way the air should flow. My K2 has the fan label on the outside but airflow is inward. Yes, it is assembled per the manual and verified at least twice. Perhaps I should have been more clear on my description of my conception of the instructions in the KPA3 assembly manual. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM Date: Sun, 4 Apr 2010 17:55:54 -0500 From: k9...@socket.net To: w...@q.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Cooling On the contrary, the ASSEMBLY manual is very clear on how they should be installed. They should blow out . . . as stated in the manual: Assembling the Fan Panel Locate the fan panel and mount the fans as shown in Figures 12 and 13 using 4-40 7/8” black flat head screws and acorn nuts. Note that the appearance of the fans in your kit may differ slightly from those shown. 1. Orient the fans with the side with the manufacturer’s label facing away from the panel. 73, Kent K9ZTV SN 21 On 4/4/2010 5:16 PM, Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, Which way is the air flow supposed to be through the fans on the K3? Mine blows out, pulling air in from the slots in the top above the KPA3. (My K2 blows in.) The manual doesn't seem real clear on which way to install them in the K3. __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Cooling
Don, The label on the fan of my K2 is on the outside but it pushes air inward. Verified many times including fan wiring. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM Date: Sun, 4 Apr 2010 20:14:07 -0400 From: w3...@embarqmail.com To: w...@q.com CC: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Cooling Jim, Your KPA100 fan *should* exhaust air just like the K3. If yours moves air the other way, check to be certain the fan label is on the outside. 73, Don W3FPR Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, Which way is the air flow supposed to be through the fans on the K3? Mine blows out, pulling air in from the slots in the top above the KPA3. (My K2 blows in.) The manual doesn't seem real clear on which way to install them in the K3. __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question
Bob, I live on a postage size lot so big antennas and lots of separation is not possible. I usually run an ALS-500M amp. My initial thought is to run both K3's on the same bands. However, digging out mult's on different bands might be the way to go. The same band idea came from my days with duel watch radio's. It's all a growing and learning experience. I've looked at the ICE filters plus those from other companys. I'm guessing at this point the more isolation (expensive) filters would be better. I've discovered in the last day or so that when signal levels are over about S9+30/40 the K3 receiver goes strangely quiet and no bars on the S-meter are light. It takes from a few seconds to a minute or so to recover. Thank you for your suggestions. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM From: w...@w5ov.com To: w...@q.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 17:20:49 -0600 Jim, Are you asking if you can run high power SO2R and do so safely without bandpass filters? You didn't mention what power level, and this makes a huge difference. You can use ICE bandpass filters (-30 to -35db) which are relatively cheap (~$40 each). Their performance is not as good as W3NQN design filters (-75db to -80db) which are the ones that cost big bucks(~$99 each). If you allocate one radio to doing say 160, 40 and 15 and the other to doing 80, 20 and 10m, you could get by with just one set of 6 bandpass filters. While bandpass filters have a by-product of protecting your radio's front end, that's not all they do. The filter on the transmitter limits what gets out and the filter on the receiver limits what gets in - so having a filter on each radio increases the benefit. This is more of a practical operational thing than being protective. Also, when you say separation of frequencies within the band do you intend to run both radios on the same band? Needless to say, bandpass filters will not be of any use if you do this. The key here is physical separation of your antennas so that the coupling between the two is minimized. Bob W5OV P.S. ICE has a new owner and is delivering product again much more quickly. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Jim Harris Sent: Monday, March 08, 2010 4:03 PM To: Elecraft Email Subject: [Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question Hi Folks, I'm currently selling an off-shore rig with the hopes of acquiring a second K3 for SO2R, primarily for RTTY contesting. I believe I've seen somewhere in the not to distant past that is was said the K3 receive front end can withstand 1-2 watts without damage. I've spent the last hour reviewing the email archive and can find no reference to that. Can anyone confirm or deny my remembrance? (Or, is it all just wishful thinking?) Is there anyone on the reflector that is operating a K3 SO2R station without the thousand or so dollars of band pass filters needed to protect the radio's front end? Second part of the question is.if possible to not damage the front end, what is the possibility of desensing or causing blocking or noise that would interfere with reception on one receiver when transmitting on the other radio. I'm sure that is highly dependent on band(s) and separation of frequencies within the band. I'll fully aware of the K3's ability to completely block signals a few kilohertz away but when RTTY contesting I do seem to notice there may be some desensing or AGC action from these signals even though they are not heard or processed by MMTTY. Comments very much appreciated. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question
Tony, Thank you for the link. Those are not the exact words I remember but they contribute to my understanding. I received my K3 in early September 2009 and it has the mod. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 18:33:34 -0500 From: jafe...@rogers.com To: w...@q.com CC: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question Hi Jim, I think this is the thread you are looking for: http://n2.nabble.com/KRX3-Overload-Protection-on-160M-td3814157.html#a3814157 Hope this helps. 73 Tony Fegan VE3QF Jim Harris wrote: Hi Folks, I'm currently selling an off-shore rig with the hopes of acquiring a second K3 for SO2R, primarily for RTTY contesting. I believe I've seen somewhere in the not to distant past that is was said the K3 receive front end can withstand 1-2 watts without damage. I've spent the last hour reviewing the email archive and can find no reference to that. Can anyone confirm or deny my remembrance? (Or, is it all just wishful thinking?) Is there anyone on the reflector that is operating a K3 SO2R station without the thousand or so dollars of band pass filters needed to protect the radio's front end? Second part of the question is.if possible to not damage the front end, what is the possibility of desensing or causing blocking or noise that would interfere with reception on one receiver when transmitting on the other radio. I'm sure that is highly dependent on band(s) and separation of frequencies within the band. I'll fully aware of the K3's ability to completely block signals a few kilohertz away but when RTTY contesting I do seem to notice there may be some desensing or AGC action from these signals even though they are not heard or processed by MMTTY. Comments very much appreciated. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question
Brett, Thank you for the link. As I mentioned in a reply to someone else my radio has the mod. In lieu of any definitive statement from Elecraft it probably would be best to go in the safer direction of using filters. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM From: br...@livecomputers.com Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 16:04:28 -0800 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question To: w...@q.com CC: elecraft@mailman.qth.net http://www.elecraft.com/K3/mods/K3%20rx%20protection%20mod,%20rev%20B.pdf That document explains a mod that you should definitely make sure is in place in your radio if you're worried about this condition. I had one of Q8 and Q9 blow in my radio after too much power came back in from another operator who told me he *WAS* staying off of 20 meter like to told him to do he was down on 14 meters! ;) Anyway we replaced the Q and the rig came back to life. But if you view that document it says that when you get to +13 to +20dBm it will automatically engage the preamp for you. +20dBm is 100mW so that would at least give you an added 10dB of protection on your way up to the 1-2W realm. ~Brett (KC7OTG) On Mon, Mar 8, 2010 at 2:03 PM, Jim Harris w...@q.com wrote: Hi Folks, I'm currently selling an off-shore rig with the hopes of acquiring a second K3 for SO2R, primarily for RTTY contesting. I believe I've seen somewhere in the not to distant past that is was said the K3 receive front end can withstand 1-2 watts without damage. I've spent the last hour reviewing the email archive and can find no reference to that. Can anyone confirm or deny my remembrance? (Or, is it all just wishful thinking?) Is there anyone on the reflector that is operating a K3 SO2R station without the thousand or so dollars of band pass filters needed to protect the radio's front end? Second part of the question is.if possible to not damage the front end, what is the possibility of desensing or causing blocking or noise that would interfere with reception on one receiver when transmitting on the other radio. I'm sure that is highly dependent on band(s) and separation of frequencies within the band. I'll fully aware of the K3's ability to completely block signals a few kilohertz away but when RTTY contesting I do seem to notice there may be some desensing or AGC action from these signals even though they are not heard or processed by MMTTY. Comments very much appreciated. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 SO2R Question
Hi Folks, I'm currently selling an off-shore rig with the hopes of acquiring a second K3 for SO2R, primarily for RTTY contesting. I believe I've seen somewhere in the not to distant past that is was said the K3 receive front end can withstand 1-2 watts without damage. I've spent the last hour reviewing the email archive and can find no reference to that. Can anyone confirm or deny my remembrance? (Or, is it all just wishful thinking?) Is there anyone on the reflector that is operating a K3 SO2R station without the thousand or so dollars of band pass filters needed to protect the radio's front end? Second part of the question is.if possible to not damage the front end, what is the possibility of desensing or causing blocking or noise that would interfere with reception on one receiver when transmitting on the other radio. I'm sure that is highly dependent on band(s) and separation of frequencies within the band. I'll fully aware of the K3's ability to completely block signals a few kilohertz away but when RTTY contesting I do seem to notice there may be some desensing or AGC action from these signals even though they are not heard or processed by MMTTY. Comments very much appreciated. CU in the Colorado QSO Party Sept 4th, 2010. 73, Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K-3 Interface to Ameritron ARI-500
Bob, I use the ARI-500 with my K3 and ALS-500M amp. The pull up resistor mod is incorporated in later K3's. I home brewed a Y connector from the ACC jack on the K3 to the ARI-500. The other leg goes to a com port on my computer for FSK RTTY. Be sure to set up the ARI-500 exactly per the manual. No problems at all.functions as designed. 73, Jim, W0EM -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K-3-Interface-to-Ameritron-ARI-500-tp4528035p4531501.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 KUSB PROBLEM
Eric, I tried that a couple of years ago and it worked for about 15 seconds. An RFC in the ground line of the 9 pin D jack inside the K2 opened. It's not an easy part to replace. I found there was about .3 vdc between the case of the laptop and K2. The laptop was operating from it's AC adapter and the K2 from a 13.8 vdc power supply. Others have reported success but didn't work for me. 73, Jim, W0EM -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K2-KUSB-PROBLEM-tp4472555p4478283.html Sent from the [K2] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 Audio Feedback
Hi folks, While phone contesting yesterday I found there is audio feedback from headphones/external speakers through the microphone without the PTT being pressed. Monitor level was initially set at about 15. I was using a Heil BM-10ic headphone through the front panel with bias turned on. They have tiny ear pads that could easily let an amount of noise slip past to the microphone. The audio line out on my K3 back panel goes to a computer which has garden variety speakers hooked to it's audio out. On the radio I had the AF control turned most of the way up and was riding the RF (IF) gain. NR was on with a setting of F1-2. I found that when the RF gain was turned up something like half way or more (depending on signal level) the audio level would creep up as though AGC was pumping. If the gain was further increased the characteristic howl of feedback resulted. Remember all this was occurring without PTT (no PTT light). I would have thought the microphone would be dead without PTT. I turned down the monitor to 8 and the feedback was not as much but was still present. Finally I moved the volume control slider for the computer speakers to the bottom and that eliminated the feedback. I'm very surprised to find a microphone connected to the K3 is live and that the audio is being feed to the audio outputs without the PTT being pressed resulting in the described feedback. That is disappointing because it limits the ways that I can use my radio. I'm wondering if this may be the source of some noise comments here on the reflector. Does anyone else have any experience with this or any constructive comments? Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] A K3 Happy Note
Hi to all, Just finished the ARRL RTTY Roundup with my somewhat new K3. It hauled the load this time without a drop of sweat. In early December while in another RTTY contest it developed Hi Cur warnings. That with a DSP board being DOA when I built the radio in September and the noise issue I was ready to heave it out the window. Elecraft in an amazing show of Customer Support took the radio into their care and found a defective final transistor in the LPA causing the Hi Cur warning. With all the discussion about noise issues here on the reflector I've found a combination of settings that makes the noise much more tolerable. Oh BTW, they replaced the DOA DSP board pronto. After a rough start I'm looking forward a long and happy coexistence with my K3. My personal thanks to all the gang at Elecraft for their support when the future of this radio wasn't looking too bright. As a show of my gratitude and confidence in the radio I've ordered a KDVR3 to replace my external DVK. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Noisy K-3 Receiver
Dick, I've had the same experience as you describe. You will get some explanations here on the reflector that sort of make sense so I will not try to repeat them. What it comes down to for me is there is less usable S meter range and amplified background noise to contend with. A great receiver but having to listen to that background noise is disquieting. I think the noise/S meter relationship needs a solid review from engineering aimed at putting a bit of a knee at the bottom of the scale and in the process dropping the apparent noise level. A supersensitive receiver is great but when all it's doing is digging out noise it's of little value. I agree NR and related controls help a bit on the noise but it doesn't address the underlying situation. Many of us over-the-hill folks have a sensitivity to noise that younger people don't have so it may be hard for them to understand and appreciate our concern. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 23:44:26 EST From: r...@aol.com Subject: [Elecraft] Noisy K-3 Receiver To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: be9.65ac7dd1.3859b...@aol.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Hi Guys, I'd appreciate your thoughts as to why my K-3 receiver is so noisy. I'd really like to make this radio perform. The radio is Serial #603F (factory model) running 1.2.10.27. I purchased the unit from the original owner a couple of months ago so I don't know if it's always been this noisy but I do know it was the same before I recently updated software to 1.2.10.27. The radio is in immaculate condition and was never used mobile or bounced around. (it's a beautiful radio that looks like new!) I say the receiver is noisy based upon listening to dozens of different signals on: 40/20/15 m. and by doing numerous A/B comparison tests. The comparison tests were done with the K-3 Pre-Amp turned Off. (and tried with ATT on and off but mostly on to reduce noise). Radio 1: Yaesu FT-1000-MP w/AF Mod. A signal is peaking S-8 and with the no signal noise level is averaging S-1. Therefore, the signal is peaking aprx. 7 s-units above the noise based upon the MP s-meter and the signal sounds loud and is way above the noise level. Now I switch to the K-3: Radio 2: K-3 tuned to the same signal with PreAmp Off and is peaking S-7 but the no signal noise level is noisy S-4 to S-5. Therefore, the signal is peaking only about 2 or 3 s-units above the noise level based upon the K-3 s-meter. The result is that the MP has aprx. a 4 s-unit S/N ratio advantage. Thoughts: I realize that all s-meters read differently and the fact that the MP s-meter shows a 4 s-unit stronger signal above the noise level doesn't mean alot. But the fact is that the signal on the MP sounds MUCH louder with alot more headroom above the noise level. The K-3 receiver sounds so noisy even with the S-7 signal that it isn't enjoyable listening to and that's why I ran the comparisons because I couldn't stand all the noise. Switching on the K-3's NR, ATT, and/or adjusting the RF Gain does help some but the signal still sounds noisy compared to the MP. Based upon Reviews of the K-3 I believe that I must have an unusual K-3 noisy receiver problem. I'd sure appreciate your ideas on how I can get a better S/N ratio on my K-3. Thanks! 73, Dick- K9OM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power Problem ??
Dave, Looks like you have pointed me in the right direction. I had not done the wattmeter calibration as the manual implies that it is optional. That plus the usual inaccuracies in the average wattmeter I decided to accept the factory settings. This morning I did the procedure and thus far have not had a high current warning. Current is 1-2 amps less than before; still a little on the high side but at least no warnings about it. Knock on wood.. For the Elecraft tech writers and anyone attempting to do the procedure there is an error in the procedure. On page 49 of the Owner's Manual the last step on the bottom left should read tap XMIT rather than hold TUNE. If TUNE is used rather than XMIT the radio will output 20 watts regardless of the power set while calibrating. Thanks for the help. 73, Jim, W0EM Dave G4AON wrote: Jim, if you calibrated the K3 Wattmeter with a low reading Wattmeter it would give the symptoms you describe. The calibration is optional and calls for an accurate Wattmeter, the K3 already comes calibrated from the factory. You might have a fault, K3 Support will be able to assist. I use the supplied cable and obtain good correlation to the expected power at 5 and 50 Watts, but slightly less at 100 Watts. There is a table of the results at: http://www.astromag.co.uk/k3/ I've never had an over current warning. 73 Dave, G4AON K3/100 #80 - Exactly 100 watts set on K3. Measured about 90 watts out on two external watt meters. One on an MFJ antenna tuner and the other is a high end MFJ power meter. They agree within a couple of watts near 100 watts measured. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-Power-Problem-tp4116099p4118258.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power Problem ??
Dave, Thank you for taking he time to take the measurements nd pass them along. I said in my previous post that I had calibrated the wattmeter and it seemed to help. Well, it did help some but not enough to completely eliminate high current warnings and subsequent power reductions. In trouble shooting I have found that some interesting things. 1. Going through the tuner part of my antenna tuner adds about three (3) more amps than going direct through the tuner. 2. I have set CONFIG:WMTR to the setting (180) that requires least current regardless of actual external meter indication. If the setting (160) is used that indicates 50 watts on the external meter when 50 is set on the radio, the current is nearly one amp higher. 3. When the radio is room temperature on 20 meters with 100 watts set, the current is 20.25 amps when going directly into two different dummy loads. After about four minutes of 15 seconds on and off the current is 21.6 amps and climbing. 4. When using an antenna with an SWR of higher than 1.2:1, the current warning is always displayed with subsequent power reduction. 5. I have found the current warning threshold is at about 24.5 amps. It seems the high current warning only is displayed during RTTY at 100 watts into less than a perfect antenna while tuning with an external antenna tuner. I've never seen the warning in any other mode. If this is in fact normal then I'm very disappointed with my K3. It sure spoiled my contest effort today. I've previously learned that the S-meter does not respond in the way I would expect. These and 2-3 other issues have left a less than sterling impression of the K3. I'm trying hard to like this radio but my offshore rig doesn't have these kind of issues. Does anyone else on the list have high current warnings when running RTTY at 100 watts? If support is listening I sure would like to hear from you. Jim, W0EM 100W measured on the following bands gives: 160m, 18.1 A 80m, 17.3A 40m, 22.5A 30m, 21.5A 20m, 20.5A 15m, 19.4A 10m, 17.5A 6m, 21.5A These figures were with 13.5 ~ 13.4 Volts from my power supply as measured on the K3's display (both for Amps and Voltage). Power measurement into a 50 Ohm load with a calibrated LP-100 power meter. 73 Dave, G4AON K3/100 #80 -- -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-Power-Problem-tp4116099p4119926.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 Power Problem ??
Hi Folks, When doing RTTY at 100 watts a high current warning flashes in the VFO B display area and RF power is automatically cut back to about 60 watts. SWR is about 1.1:1 or there abouts; nothing approaching 1.5:1. I have found there is 0.6 volts drop in the Elecraft supplied power cable (Power Poles are soldered) and about 0.2 volt drop between my power supply and the output of the Rigrunner. It's between the power supply and the K3. Voltage at the radio drops to 13.2 vdc and current is 23-24 amps on transmit. Under that load the voltage at the power supply drops 0.01 volts. I run the power supply (it's variable) at 14.0 volts at the supply. It's a 40 amp power supply. I have a popular off shore rig that has no problem with the existing power setup. In reading the Supply/Voltage Current specifications on page eight (8) of the Owners Manual I find it recommends When using reduced supply voltage (12volts), power output should be reduced (e.g. 70 W at 11 V). Further, For best results, use the supplied 5 foot (1.3 m) power cable. Those two statements appear to be in error when applied to my radio. My K3 appears to be overly sensitive to voltage and current. The only adjustment I can locate that might relate to this is the menu CONFIG:ADC REF entry. However, I seriously doubt it will have any impact on this as this appears to be a serious error and adjust appears to be for fine tuning at best. I certainly would appreciate any ones constructive input on this situation. I could appreciate knowing the gauge of the supplied cableI'm hoping that doubling or tripling the size might help. But, that seems to be a bandaide rather that eliminating the root cause. Thank, have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] [MM] XG1 signal problem
Brian, I had a similar problem off and on with my XG1 for 2-3 years. While recently calibrating the S meter in my new K3 it came to the point I could no longer use it. During troubleshooting as you did I found that tapping the case of X1 (crystal case) would cause the problem to come and go. I installed a replacement crystal from Elecraft and no longer had the problem. I also replaced the variable cap at the same time as a tiny piece of insulation was sticking out from the edge of the top metal plate under the adjustment screw. If troubleshooting doesn't find another problem you might replace the crystal and/or variable cap to see what happens. Have a good day and 73, Jim, W0EM Brian - N5BCN wrote: Hello all, When attempting to calibrate my K2's S-meter with a XG1, I discovered the XG1 itself is having a problem. I verified this by connecting it to a working IC-7600. The signal output on it, although heard, is very weak. Adjusted for on-frequency, the s-meter reads about S2 or S3. Touching the XG1 can get the signal up to about S4 or S5. Switching between 1 uV and 50 uV makes no apparent difference in signal strength on the s-meter. Resistance checks on the XG1 and found some problems: Resistance from the following junctions to ground: U2, R1 = 50 k Ohms (should be 57-63 k Ohms) C4, R3 = 50 k Ohms (should be 57-63 k Ohms) R1, C1 = 54 k Ohms (should be 67-73 k Ohms) Checked all component placements and solder joints, no obvious problems. Reheated all solder joints (twice now) just in case; no improvement. My next step is to measure all the resistor and capacitor values. Do these symptoms jump out anybody as something obvious (bad xtal or other component)? Any suggestions will be most appreciated. 73 Brian - N5BCN -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/XG1-signal-problem-tp4054195p4055700.html Sent from the [MM] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] (no subject)
Rich, Thank you for your thoughtful response. I've copied and pasted your comments into a new email as I get the digest and cannot answer directly. To make a long story short your suggestion #3 below led me to turn CONFIG:PTT-KEY to OFF-OFF and that seems to have corrected the situations. I would have never guessed that since I had not checked to send PTT through DTR/RTS on COM1 that the K3 would need to be told to not look for something that wasn't there. And also, why would that affect something in the radio that was totally unrelated. But, alas, greater minds than mine have stumbled over smaller things. My thanks to everyone, including Wayne, who expressed an interest in this. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM From: Richard Ferch ve3...@storm.ca Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Menu Stuck Jim, This is a bit of a stab in the dark, and may or may not have anything to do with what is happening to you, but exactly how many methods are you using to do PTT? It sounds as if you may have two or perhaps even three methods enabled simultaneously, which is not a good idea and might be contributing to the problem by confusing the firmware somehow if the hardware and software commands are getting crossed due to slight timing differences. 1) MMTTY is controlling PTT on DTR/RTS on COM4, which you have connected to the PTT pin on the ACC connector via a keying circuit. 2) You are using MMTTY's Radio command, which means MMTTY will be sending TX; and RX; commands over COM1 unless you have deliberately blanked out the RX and TX boxes in the Commands pane of the MMTTY Radio command dialog box. 3) If you happen to have the PTT box checked for DTR/RTS in the MMTTY Radio command dialog (top right), MMTTY is also controlling DTR/RTS on COM1, and if you have the K3's CONFIG:PTT-KEY set to anything other than OFF-xxx, this would also be commanding the K3's PTT on and off. Since you have method 1 implemented via the ACC connector, you don't really need MMTTY's Radio command at all, at least not for purposes of PTT. If you are using Radio command in order to get radio frequency information into MMTTY for logging purposes, you might consider: (a) unchecking the PTT box for DTR/RTS in the MMTTY Radio command dialog box; and if this doesn't work or it is already unchecked (b) clearing out the contents of the Rx and Tx commands in the MMTTY Radio command dialog box in order to stop MMTTY from trying to control PTT via software. Hope this helps. 73, Rich VE3KI __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 Menu Stuck
Matt, Here are the firmware rev's: MCU 3.41, FPF 1.04, DSP 2.37. Several additional pieces of information I have found. In addition to the menu situation as mentioned, when changing modes the mode will not change from CW. Remember you need to go through CW to get from DATA to USB/LSB or vice versa. The problem only occurs when MMTTY is open and the radio is set to FSK D. The situations do NOT occur with Radio Command port set to None (no radio command) nor in other data modes. I have tried MMVARI and Hamscope and it doesn't happen with them but they don't do FSK RTTY. I have a straight through cable from COM 1 on my PC to the RS-232 on the K3 for radio command. For FSK RTTY I have a home brew cable with level converters from COM 4 on the PC to the ACC port on the radio. FSK=TXD DB9-3 (PC) to DB15-1, PTT=DB9-7(PC) to DB15-4. Ground =DB9-1 to DB15-5/12. There are two level converters. One each for FSK and PTT and they are in the back shell of the DB9 connector. Each lev el converter is a 1k ohm resister from the respective DB9 pin to the base of a 2N3904 transistor. The collectors go to their respective pin on the DB15. Both emitters are tied to the ground pins on each connector. FSK RTTY works fine with MMTTY using FSK D on the radio. It's just that the radio gets hung up in the two area mentioned above when radio command is on. I'll try to do some experimenting with radio command to see if there is something that can be changed that will eliminate the situations. Hope the additional information is helpful to anyone trying to duplicate the situation. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM Re: [Elecraft] K3 Menu Stuck Matt Zilmer Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:50:48 -0700 Hi Jim, What firmware rev(s) are you using? This doesn't happen with a recent field test firmware on the K3 here. No one can confirm your result without a rev # for the firmware. It may be revision-dependent and probably was eliminated some time ago. 73, matt W6NIA K3 #24 On Tue, 27 Oct 2009 01:38:55 +, you wrote: Hi, Just discovered something that doesn't seem right. When I hit MENU and turn VFO B to RPT OFS the display stays on that regardless whether turning VFO B forward or backwards. It only sticks on that entry. It sticks regardless of which way (CW or CCW) I approach the entry. The only way to get out of it is to turn the radio off and back on. Anyone have any ideas on what is happening and how to correct it. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 Menu Stuck
Hi, Just discovered something that doesn't seem right. When I hit MENU and turn VFO B to RPT OFS the display stays on that regardless whether turning VFO B forward or backwards. It only sticks on that entry. It sticks regardless of which way (CW or CCW) I approach the entry. The only way to get out of it is to turn the radio off and back on. Anyone have any ideas on what is happening and how to correct it. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Line Out in Data Mode?
Dave, Thanks for the suggestion. I'm using a level of 8 ---the manual recommends no more than 10. In sideband I get a good level to the programs I mentioned. In data modes there is absolutely nothing showing on the programs displays. It's like there is absolutely no output from the Line Out on the K3. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM Date: Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:19:16 +0800 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Line Out in Data Mode? From: lowb...@gmail.com To: w...@q.com CC: elecraft@mailman.qth.net check your line out setting, maybe you set too low... 73 de ba4rf/Dave On Fri, Oct 16, 2009 at 10:40 AM, Jim Harris w...@q.com wrote: Hi, I've been able to transmit and receive PSK and RTTY in USB LSB on my new K3. That includes sound out of the Line Out on the rear panel to my computer's sound card. However, in all data modes there is no sound from Line Out to the computer. I've used MMTTY, MMVARI and Hamscope with the same results. I've read everything related in the operators manual without finding anything that will help. Looking for working ideas. Thanks, have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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 __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 Line Out in Data Mode?
Hi, I've been able to transmit and receive PSK and RTTY in USB LSB on my new K3. That includes sound out of the Line Out on the rear panel to my computer's sound card. However, in all data modes there is no sound from Line Out to the computer. I've used MMTTY, MMVARI and Hamscope with the same results. I've read everything related in the operators manual without finding anything that will help. Looking for working ideas. Thanks, have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] [K3] RE: K3 S-Meter and Noise
Don, I did not say nor hopefully imply that my procedure was intended to be scientific. I was simply doing a layman's side-by-side comparison. Obviously, my K3 has a higher noise level than my other four radio's and it is represented on the S-meter. QSO's that are something like S7 and above are a real problem as during pauses by the person on the other side as the AGC drops I'm hit with this rush of noise as the S-meter settles around S2+. I don't hear this on my other radio's as the noise level is usually settles closer to S0. After 20-30 minutes it becomes mostly unbearable. Maybe this is one of the reasons so many people complain about K3 audio. Thank you for the reminder about the MDS procedure in the XG1 manual. I'll work on that in the next day or so as I get a chance. One thing most interesting about this whole discussion on the email forum is that no one has said what I am experiencing is normal for a typical K3. I've been in communication with support and Wayne and none have said it's normal. I've had comments from I don't understand what I'm talking about to in-depth discussions on noise but no one has said what I'm experiencing is normal and it's not a problem. Wayne has offered a beta software with a revised RF gain procedure that may be of some benefit. I'm going to ask him to send it and see how it works. Thank you for your reply. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM Date: Sat, 3 Oct 2009 20:50:36 -0700 From: ml-user+39068-1894282...@n2.nabble.com To: w...@q.com Subject: Re: K3 S-Meter and Noise Jim, I know perception is 99% of reality, but your measurement technique is not entirely valid. The proper way to make the determination of sensitivity is to measure the MDS of each of the receivers. Use your XG1 signal generator to determine the MDS of each reciever using the technique outlined in the XG1 manual. A more sensitive receiver will create more antenna noise than one that is less sensitive. Say that the K3 can hear a -138 dBm signal, and the atmospheric noise is -136 dBm, then the K3 will hear all signals on that band that are greater than that -136 dBm noise level. If the MDS of the other receivers is at -132 dBm, they will not be able to hear the atmospheric noise, and will also not be able to hear a signal of -133 dBm either. A receiver that hears more 'antenna noise' is usually the more sensitive one. The noise floor - the noise level with the antenna disconnected - is the limit where the receiver will mask weak signals. OTOH, atmospheric noise (antenna noise) will mask signals on all receivers. 73, Don W3FPR Jim HaRRIS wrote: Tom, I have three radio's in my shack besides the K3. I've checked their S-meters with the recommended XG1 and all have comparable readings. All four are equally quiet without an antenna connected and with a dummy load connected. When connected to an antenna the K3 has about 2 S units more noise indicated than the other radios connected to the same antenna (A/B switch) and the noise level sounds about that much louder. All volume controls are at about 9 o'clock. This applies to most bands. Strangely, WARC bands seem to be mostly excepted. This afternoon I took the my K3, K2 and FT-857D mobile using a 54 Li'l Tarheel II screwdriver antenna tuned to 20 meters. I operated the K3 K2 from a SLA battery with the van turned off. I was in a park with nothing electrical for at least a half mile. Volume was again set at 9 0'clock on all three. The K3 have a steady S1 with peaks to S3. The other radios had S0 with no peaks. Volumes sounded appropriate for indicated S-meter reading. I've almost completely disassembled the radio and reassembled it and done the EE INIT reset with no change. It's apparent this K3 is more sensitive to antenna noise than the other four radio's which are all about equal. This leads me to believe this particular radio is going to bury weak signals in noise making them harder to dig out than the other radios. I've exchanged several emails with support and next week I'm supposed to talk with someone higher up at Aptos. I'm trying to be patient with this but it has been over a month since I placed the initial order. During assembly I had to replace the DSP board for an unrelated problem. If the radio has to go back to Aptos it will be close to two months since ordering before I have a fully functional radio. Have a good day and 73, Jim, W0EM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[hidden email] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html View message @ http://n2.nabble.com/K3-S-Meter-and-Noise-tp3706850p3762733.html To unsubscribe from Re: K3 S
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] K3 S-Meter and Noise
Tom, I have three radio's in my shack besides the K3. I've checked their S-meters with the recommended XG1 and all have comparable readings. All four are equally quiet without an antenna connected and with a dummy load connected. When connected to an antenna the K3 has about 2 S units more noise indicated than the other radios connected to the same antenna (A/B switch) and the noise level sounds about that much louder. All volume controls are at about 9 o'clock. This applies to most bands. Strangely, WARC bands seem to be mostly excepted. This afternoon I took the my K3, K2 and FT-857D mobile using a 54 Li'l Tarheel II screwdriver antenna tuned to 20 meters. I operated the K3 K2 from a SLA battery with the van turned off. I was in a park with nothing electrical for at least a half mile. Volume was again set at 9 0'clock on all three. The K3 have a steady S1 with peaks to S3. The other radios had S0 with no peaks. Volumes sounded appropriate for indicated S-meter reading. I've almost completely disassembled the radio and reassembled it and done the EE INIT reset with no change. It's apparent this K3 is more sensitive to antenna noise than the other four radio's which are all about equal. This leads me to believe this particular radio is going to bury weak signals in noise making them harder to dig out than the other radios. I've exchanged several emails with support and next week I'm supposed to talk with someone higher up at Aptos. I'm trying to be patient with this but it has been over a month since I placed the initial order. During assembly I had to replace the DSP board for an unrelated problem. If the radio has to go back to Aptos it will be close to two months since ordering before I have a fully functional radio. Have a good day and 73, Jim, W0EM Radio Amateur N5GE wrote: On Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:18:33 +, Jim Harris w...@q.com wrote: Hi All, I've had my new K3 up and running for about a week after replacing the DSP board during assembly due to the 5vdc rail being shorted to ground. The S-meter shows about S-2/3 noise and there is about an equal level of noise from the speaker. I have an IC-756ProIII sitting beside it and it shows S-0 with minimum noise from the speaker. Of course, I'm using the same mode and have set the filters in both to the same width. I have played with the preamp and attenuator in both and the K3 always shows a higher noise level with accompanying S-meter reading. My K2 is extremely quiet and does just great on the many portable trips I take. I may well be missing something on the K3 in all the myriad menu settings of the K3 but don't have a clue at this point as to how to proceed. I sure don't want to think this $2000 radio has such a noise problem and I'm going to have to live it. Does anyone have any information that may help? I would be most appreciative. Thank you, have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM [snip] Have you compared the two rigs with their antennas disconnected? Are they both on the same antenna? Have you calibrated the Icon/K2 S-Meters with a known 50 microvolt signal? What band are you on? Just a guess, but it sounds like the K3 has a more sensitive RX than the other two. 73, Tom, N5GE n...@n5ge.com K3 #806, K3 #1055, PR6, XV144, XV432, KRC2, W1 and other small kits. 2 W2's on order 1 K144XV on order http://www.n5ge.com http://www.swotrc.net __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-S-Meter-and-Noise-tp3706850p3762588.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Firmware Ver 3.30
Hi, I've had my K3 (S/N 3431) up and running about two weeks. It arrived with version 3.30 installed. I'm understanding from reading here on the reflector that version is beta and is not available for download by K3 owners due to some unforeseen difficulty. Two points. So far I've found no major issues other than S-2 noise on 20 meter where it's not present on my IC-756ProIII. On the other hand I'm somewhat concerned about receiving my radio with unreleased software making me a unknowing test subject. Should I revert to an earlier version to avoid learning about my new radio with unreleased software that will obviously change in the near future. Second point, to Elecraft management. It seems unwise business practice to provide a product to customers that has not gone through necessary testing and release and especially without the customers knowledge. If I'm misunderstanding something here please help me understand and I do apologize if I do misunderstand. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 S-Meter and Noise
Hi All, I've had my new K3 up and running for about a week after replacing the DSP board during assembly due to the 5vdc rail being shorted to ground. The S-meter shows about S-2/3 noise and there is about an equal level of noise from the speaker. I have an IC-756ProIII sitting beside it and it shows S-0 with minimum noise from the speaker. Of course, I'm using the same mode and have set the filters in both to the same width. I have played with the preamp and attenuator in both and the K3 always shows a higher noise level with accompanying S-meter reading. My K2 is extremely quiet and does just great on the many portable trips I take. I may well be missing something on the K3 in all the myriad menu settings of the K3 but don't have a clue at this point as to how to proceed. I sure don't want to think this $2000 radio has such a noise problem and I'm going to have to live it. Does anyone have any information that may help? I would be most appreciative. Thank you, have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Special Event Station
Sep 17-Sep 20, 1800Z-1700Z, Kenton, OK. Oklahoma City Astronomy Club, Callsign N0T (N zero T). 26th Okie-Tex Star Party. 7200 14.235 28.440. Certificate. Oklahoma City Astronomy Club, PO Box 22804, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1804. First Star Party Special Event. All invited. Stop by if you're in the area. ac...@hotmail.com or www.okie-tex.com Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 Resistance Check Failed
Hi, Yesterday I spent several hours assembling my new K3 to the point of resistance measurements on page 45 of the assembly manual. U12 is reading 16-18 ohms instead of the specified 500ohms. I've since exchanged emails with support with the usual tips on trying a different meter, reversing leads, checking connectors etc. None have changed the readings. I removed the front panel and separated the DSP board from the front panel board. With the entire front panel removed the resistance is ~5 k ohms. When plugging in only J51 (yes, very carefully) on the DSP board the resistance is again ~16 ohms. Plugging in the other connectors on the two boards results in ~ 5 k ohms. I've done a very through inspection of the RF and DSP boards and have found nothing at fault. I would appreciate any thoughts and ideas on how to reslove the problem. Thank you, have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K3 FSK RTTY
Hi Folks, I have a K3 on it's way form Aptos that will arrive Tuesday, Sept 8th.would have here today except for a minor hiccup. But, not complainingjust a lesson in patience. I've been worrying over the assembly and operating manual the last few days. I like to contest using FSK RTTY. Looks like the only way to get the FSK from the computer to the radio is through the Accessory port on the radio. Looks like there are several other functions that go through the connector. The manual seems a little shy on how to gather all the data from apparently several locations and get it into the connector. Is there a cable available to do that or is one left to their own to fabricate such a spiderweb thing. I applaud the built in interface isolation transformers only to find myself faced with having to engineer and build a break out cable that connects among several pieces of hardware. Do I have this thing all wrong or do I need to start contemplating building a breakout cable? Thanks for any help. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] K2 Problem ???
Hi, My K2 is slightly over four years old. I only use it for portable operations about once per month. It has all the bells and whistles including DSP and all needed mods are installed. I power it with an external battery through an MFJ battery booster. I had to add the booster because as the battery voltage would drop below about 11.5 volts at the radio I would get reports of transmitted audio distortion. I now get good audio reports on my transmitted audio. Since I've added the booster when I set the display function to show the DSP parameters there is a crackling buzzing sound in the received audio. The other display settings do not cause the noise. Apparently there is no ill effect other than the annoying noise. Has anyone experienced this previously? Any idea as to what is causing the noise and how to get rid of it. Thank you. Have a good day and 73. Jim, W0EM __ 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
[Elecraft] Status of K3 Shipping??
Hi, At the chance of stirring the err of the fanatic faithful a question has become obvious over the last few days. What is the status of K3 shipments? It has been a week or more since there was a proclamation by anyone of receiving a K3 or having received notification of a pending shipment. Is all well in Aptos or ??? Jim, AB0UK ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 vs USB to Serial Adapter
Hi, Some of you may remember from 2-3 weeks ago that my K2 would not work with my new Vista equipted laptop that did not have a serial port. Over the space of several weeks I collected four adapters from various locations and none would work with the K2 but they would work with my FT897D. The K2 would work with both the serial port and USB port, with an adapter, on a home brew XP computer. After literally weeks of throwing hardware at the problem and tweaking everything available in the K2, the laptop and several contest/logging programs. That included finding and installing all the latest drivers. I finally decided to take off my amateur radio hat and put on my electronic technician hat. Literally within minutes I found and resolved the problem. There was ~300 millivolts AC and ~350 millivolts DC between the chassis of the K2 and the laptop chassis. A short jumper cable between the two corrected the problem. Now I can control the K2 from the laptop. As of yet I've not tryed to hook up the audio to see if the K2 will transmit audio from the computer without a ground loop problem. So when things calm down later on this Christmas Day I will try the audio and see how that works. Thanks to everyone for their patience, time and support. Merry Christmas and 73, Jim, AB0UK K2 S/N 4787 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Re: K2 and Vista
Glenn, Thank you for the information. That is very reassuring for me. I've ordered the adapter from Elecraft and we'll see what happens when it arrives. To All, My thanks to all who replied including direct email to me. Your responses have been excellent and appreciated. I might mention I am aware of the need to use the special cable as prescribed in the Elecraft manuals. I've used it successfully numerous times with my K2 so I'm confident it is correctly configured. 73, Jim, AB0UK -Original Message- From: Glenn McNeil [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Dec 13, 2007 10:30 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: K2 and Vista Hi Jim, I'm using the Elecraft supplied USB/Serial Cable that I ordered with my K3, to communicate with my K2 using a Toshiba Laptop running Vista Home Premium...works fine. Incidentally, I bought a cheap local USB/Serial Cable from Jaycar here in VK Land for about $30 AUD, and it works with the K3 also with no problems...I have done several firmware updates, and as I cannot use my K3 at present ( No working Transverter Firmware, but we won't go there...), I have been playing around with both USB/Serial Cables. They both appear quiet ( some years ago I had one that made 6 Meter/HF use impossible ), and I can JUST hear some noise in the K3 when my local cable is plugged in to it, but I have yet to try the Elecraft one. In a nutshell...the Elecraft one works with Vists on a Toshiba and talks to my K2. 73 Glenn VK4TZL ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KUSB vs K2
Hi, Does anyone know conclusively if the KUSB USB to serial adapter listed on the Electaft website will work with a K2 and Vista? The KUSB is listed on the website with the K3 items. I've searched the archive and I found one remark that said the KUSB should work with a K2no mention of OS. I had to buy a new laptop and it has Vista and only USB ports. I have a couple of other adapters that will work with my FT-897 but not with my K2. After testing per the procedure in the KPA100 manual the K2 will send to the laptop but the laptop will not send to the K2 with my present adapters. Thanks and 73, Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Non-K2 mics Preamp Schematic
Okay, everyone I totally goofed on this one. It is on the Elecraft Website. The URL is http://www.elecraft.com/Apps/microphone_pre.htm Sorry abuut the wrong location. The old gray matter isn't what it used to be. Have a great day. Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 On Mar 22, 2006, at 12:29 PM, Jim Harris wrote: I use a preamp with my non K2 mics when using them with the K2. I got the preamp schematic from Don Wilhelms website. (He offers tremendous troubleshooting advice here on this forum.) The site URL is http://w3fpr.qrpradio.com/ I couldn't find a schematic for a pre-amp on this web site. (I found a bunch of other stuff, though) Could you cite the actual circuit you used? Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Quote: Not within a thousand years will man ever fly! -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Heil Proset question
The stock HC4/5 elements (non Elecraft versions) in their basic form produce a minus 65 db output. This is sufficient for use with some rigs other than an Elecraft. I use them straight with my IC-746Pro without a preamp. The Heil items sold by Elecraft for the K2 has a built in preamp that boost their output to a minus 40 db. To power the preamp, +5vdc is needed on the AF line between the K2 and the mic element. The K2 should have the higher level (-40db) to attain full SSB modulation. BTW, the numbers above came directly from Bob Heil in an email exchange between he and I. When saying one gets good audio reports doesn't mean that your K2 is fully modulated. It just means there is no noticable distortion to the listener. The actual received signal could be one to three S units difference between the elements with and without the preamp and without SSBA and SSBC adjustment in the K2. That is something similiar to adding a 200-500 watt amplifier to your K2. Yes, it is worth it to have the correct level output from your microphone. I use a preamp with my non K2 mics when using them with the K2. I got the preamp schematic from Don Wilhelms website. (He offers tremendous troubleshooting advice here on this forum.) The site URL is http://w3fpr.qrpradio.com/ I built a separate +5vdc regulator supply for the preamp using +13.8vdc from my Astron SS-30M power supply for my K2. Hope that helps clear up some things for those who have been wondering. Have a great day. Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 I see that Elecraft offers a Heil Proset tailored to the K2. Ironically, I bought a Proset just a few months ago with the HC4 element. Can anyone tell me how superior the mic in the Elecraft Proset is to the HC4 element in the set I currently own? (I'm really hoping someone will tell me I can keep the set I have, but an objective opinion would always be preferred!) __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Using an Amplifier with a K2/100
Hi, After using my K2/100 for nearly a year I finally got it hooked up to my Ameritron AL-811 amplifier. Previously, I had used the amp only with my IC-746Pro. I build a switch box to switch the amp keying. It also switches out the amplifier ALC (not that the K2/100 uses it) and it switches the MFJ-216 Amplifier Saver as well. BTW, I had to move the K2/100 about 15 inches from the amplifier to get rid of audio distortion. That has been discussed before here so it is nothing new. The K2/100 and the amp worked together just fine. With the K2/100 power out at about 55 watts the amp output was about 500 watts. I'm sure with 65 watts the amp would have easily put out it's full 600 watts. The extra power sure caused a stir in the ether. Toward the end of an hour I actually had a pileup going. Imagine having a pileup in Colorado. Just more incentive for the Elecraft amplifiers. The K2/100 just keeps amazing me as to it's capabilities. (I'm still trying to figure out all the ins and outs of the DSPmost of the time I don't think I really need it. But, hey buy it anywayWayne and Eric can always use the business.) Have a great day everyone. Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Embarassing
Well, I'm afraid to raise my head after this. About two weeks ago I raised the question here on the reflector about realigning my K2. My initial alignment had went relatively well but did not use Spectogram. After encouragement from several people to give it a go I dived right in. It went real smooth until I got to the SSB filter calibration. Levels shifted between filters, the filter widths were much too wide on all settings and the S meter was dead on several filters. I posted several questions here on the reflector and to different individuals including Elecraft Support. At one point I was convinced I had the problem under control. Then after more test it was obvious something was wrong. All the guidance I received was good but didn't correct the problem. Something was still wrong. This morning I was digging thru the reflector archives looking for help. I found a response back in 1999 to someone from Wayne at Elecraft about something somewhat similiar. He mentioned that a voltage chart was being released for the SSB module and check all voltages with it. After finding the chart I measured voltages and found the cathode of diode D6 on the SSB module was several volts low. To shorten a long store the diode was installed backward by me when the K2 was built almost a year ago. Reversing the diode corrected the problems. The filters probably need a little more tweaking but they are much better now. I've not been a big filter user on the K2 so really did not previously have a good feel as to how they were operating or should operate. The radio is just about good enough without filters. My thanks to all for their patience and understanding. It is hard to believe all that has happened with this radio since I started with it and now to find I had installed a diode backwards. I'm sure I will be shaking my head on this one a long time. 73, Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 Realignment
Last week I asked on this reflector about realigning my K2 as it is about 10 months old and I wasn't really sure I did a good job of it the first time. Several good people here on the reflector adviced it probably was a good idea and offered some valuable suggestions for this time around. Over the last two days I've spent about 10 hours doing what I think is a good alignment and think that it is now complete. (Surprized how close most setting were.)I've not done any serious on air testing with it other than some casual listening because I have two concerns. Both relate to the IF passband as seen on Spectrogram. First, the CW level when using OP1 filter is about 20+ db higher than on LSB/USB. If this is a problem, any ideas as to how to correct it? Second, the displayed bandwidth is 400-500 hz wider than that set in the K2 and especially on OP1 which was about 3khz+ wide. They resemble their settings except all are simply wider than that set. I'm allowing for half power points and all that. I had to increase the Spectrogram sample rate to see all the bandwidth especially on OP1. Again my thanks to all for the good help I received and to Elecraft for the bandwidth here. Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Is a K2 Realignment Advisable
Hi Folks, Several days ago I raised the question here as to whether it is advisable to realign my K2 after having it in use for several months. Several people replied to which I am thankful for their advice. Everyone seemed to think, in my case, it would probably be helpful to redo the alignment and include Spectrogram. While chasing 3Y0X on the upper bands I realized those bands may no be doing as well as the middle and lower bands and especially on RTTY receive. As the K2 is only capable of doing RTTY with AFSK I'm presuming LSB mode would be used like other rigs. The received RTTY in MMTTY on the K2 looks much more ragged and seems less copyable than with my IC-746Pro. Is there a special filter setting for RTTY? Now to find some time to work on it and make a great rig even better. There is just too many things do and not enough time to do them when you are retired. -;) Thanks and have a great day!! Jim, AB0UK __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Is a K2 Realignment Advisable
Hi Folks, My K2/100 (S/N 4787) is about 10 months old. My question is at what point, or ever, should all the initial alignments be repeated? There are several reasons for asking the question other than electronic components simply drifting a bit with age. 1. Recently I've noticed when it is initially turned on the received frequency is about 100 hz high judged by the pitch of people's voices that I know. After 20-30 minutes they drift to near exact frequency. 2. When initially turned on and transmitting right away I've had reports of distortion like I'm crowding the mike. 3. When doing the initial alignment I had a terrible time with zero beating due to bad hearing. A frequncy counter finally helped solve that to some degree. 4. I did not use spectrogram as it seemed confusing and my radio seemed to play well enough without it. It is still equal to or better than my IC746Pro. 5. Several voltages and frequency ranges were slightly out of tolerance but again overall it seemed to align okay and initial performance seemed okay. 6. I'm now using the receiving antenna port and am trying to dig out DX and other weak signals. I just hate to fix it if it's not broke. But, I'm wondering if I could squeeze a little more performance out of it. I hate to have my K2 on the bench for 2-3 days and not be able to use it. Well, what does everyone say. Go for it or not? Thanks for the help and bandwidth. Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Where is the Amplifier????
Hi Gang, Something over six months ago Elecraft leaked word that two new amplifiers were in the works. My impression was at least one was intended to be ready by Christmas. Does anyone know status of these and what is that status??? Inquiring minds want to know. ;-) Thanks and 73, Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 __ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] An Interesting Article for Amateur Radio Hikers
Something that might be of interest to all amateur radio hikers. It might be just the thing for Elecraft's QRP rigs. The link is from the CNN website tonight. http://www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/09/09/backpack.reut/index.html BTW, had about a dozen amateurs over yesterday to do some tower work and every one just had to see my K2. Of course, I was happy to oblige them. At least one OM went away shaking his head saying no single conversion radio can be that good. Have fun and enjoy. Jim, AB0UK K2/100 S/N 4787 __ Yahoo! for Good Watch the Hurricane Katrina Shelter From The Storm concert http://advision.webevents.yahoo.com/shelter ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
