Re: [Elecraft] Weird K-3 Power Behavior

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

No, it's not "snarky".  It points out that a claim can not
be verified absent supporting documentation - just like any
scientific study that has not been subject to peer review is
generally not given serious weight.  This is particularly the
case when the claim runs contrary to not only the designer's
and manufacturer's recommendation but also the experience of
many other experienced audio and RF engineers.

Your anecdotal claim sounds very much like the test procedure
is over driving the first audio stage before any gain control
(too much audio drive, reduced mic/line gain setting).  However,
since the lone "report" can not be peer reviewed it is impossible
to give it any credence.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 4/6/2024 4:56 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
That's kinda snarky, Joe.  I didn't identify him precisely because if he 
wants to expose himself on this reflector (of which he is a member, I 
believe) he should be the one to do so.  I know him to be a retired 
professional electronic engineer with a well-equipped workbench whose 
analyses seemed credible to me (who is none of those hi).


73, Pete N4ZR

On 4/6/2024 4:47 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:

Since your repeated claims do not identify the technician or provide
any documentation of the procedure and results, the claim can not
be validated. 

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Re: [Elecraft] Weird K-3 Power Behavior

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 4/6/2024 3:58 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
Yes - although there have also been some analysis done that seems to 
show that, in FT8,  with any ALC bars visible, signals begin to

widen out, and at 4 bars there is a lot of junk between signals.
Just repeating what I've been told -  I don't have the ability to
check this myself.

Given the way the K3 audio/ALP/Power system operates, the information
you have been given is highly questionable.  Either the test equipment
was not operating correctly, the test procedure was flawed or the
particular K3/K3s being tested was not operating correctly.

Since your repeated claims do not identify the technician or provide
any documentation of the procedure and results, the claim can not
be validated.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 4/6/2024 3:58 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
Yes - although there have also been some analysis done that seems to 
show that, in FT8,  with any ALC bars visible, signals begin to widen 
out, and at 4 bars there is a lot of junk between signals.  Just 
repeating what I've been told -  I don't have the ability to check this 
myself.


I was running FT8 just below 1 bar, and found the driving power to my 
amp took 7 or 8 transmit periods to get to full power each time I 
adjusted my power, even by a tenth of a watt.  I'm now running 3 bars 
(third flickering) and power-up behavior is much better.


73, Pete N4ZR




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Re: [Elecraft] Weird K-3 Power Behavior

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Run the power calibration.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 4/4/2024 9:03 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
I just set the audio to be sure I'm  hitting 4 bars of ALC,and the cycle 
of adjust K-3 power to full expected drive to the KPA-1500 is now more 
like CW, but the question remains -  after I adjust the power a tiny 
fraction in either direction, why does the K-3's output power drop way 
back and relatively slowly recover?


73, Pete N4ZR

On 4/4/2024 7:41 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:


This is typical for those who insist on not running data modes
with 4-5 bars of ALC.  You are not providing enough audio and
the K3/K3s needs to engage the expander (additional audio gain)
in order to achieve enough drive to reach the set power level.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 4/4/2024 6:21 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
I have a K-3 driving a KPA-1500, and have started seeing some strange 
behavior.  After I adjust the power level control on the K-3,. even a 
little (like 33 to 31 watts), the driving power delivered to the 
KPA-1500 starts much below the K-3's indication, and only gradually 
increases to what would be expected at the K-3's power setting.  This 
behavior is apparent in CW, but is more dramatic in FT* using TXData, 
where it can take several 12-second transmit intervals to reach full 
power.  Touch the K-3's power control even a little, and this cycle 
starts over again at reduced power, gradually returning to full.





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Re: [Elecraft] Weird K-3 Power Behavior

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

This is typical for those who insist on not running data modes
with 4-5 bars of ALC.  You are not providing enough audio and
the K3/K3s needs to engage the expander (additional audio gain)
in order to achieve enough drive to reach the set power level.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 4/4/2024 6:21 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
I have a K-3 driving a KPA-1500, and have started seeing some strange 
behavior.  After I adjust the power level control on the K-3,. even a 
little (like 33 to 31 watts), the driving power delivered to the 
KPA-1500 starts much below the K-3's indication, and only gradually 
increases to what would be expected at the K-3's power setting.  This 
behavior is apparent in CW, but is more dramatic in FT* using TXData, 
where it can take several 12-second transmit intervals to reach full 
power.  Touch the K-3's power control even a little, and this cycle 
starts over again at reduced power, gradually returning to full.



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Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 down power on 20M

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

But before that, I should redo the test with a dummy load.

Yes.

And it's not just gain decreasing with rising frequency, because it 
does 92W on 15M, 76W on 10M.

First suspicion ... check the alignment of your bandpass filters.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 3/16/2024 11:56 AM, jerry wrote:

Hello,

    I've been doing a bit of operation with my K2 lately.  It really is 
a joy on CW, and it fits perfectly under my big computer
monitors.  But I have noticed   On 40M, it does 101W out.  But on 
20, only 63W.  This is measured with a Telepost LP-100A vector

wattmeter.  The SWR is 1.4 to 1.

   And it's not just gain decreasing with rising frequency, because it 
does 92W on 15M, 76W on 10M.


   Guess it's time to get out the schematics...  But before that, I 
should redo the test with a dummy load.


  - Jerry, KF6VB










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Re: [Elecraft] P3 history

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Please look at the K3s Owners Manual.  The cabling necessary
to connect the K3S (and K3 with KIO3B) RJ45 Serial connection
to the 2 x DB9 connectors of the P3  or to connect the
K3 (DB9) serial connection to the P3 ... is fully documented
there.
73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 3/7/2024 6:41 PM, Doug Hensley wrote:

Okay, I found an image of the apron of an early P3 & it is using a DB9 RS232 
sub d connector.

Does anyone know this can be adapted to the later CAT5/6 socket the newer K3s 
uses?

Doug W5JV









From: Doug Hensley 
Sent: Thursday, March 7, 2024 5:24 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Cc: Don Wilhelm 
Subject: P3 history

I recently heard that early P3's (first gen ?) used a different P3-to-K3 cable 
than the last generation of P3-to-K3s's did.  Can anyone tell me anything about 
that?  And is there a fix for connecting an eary P3 to a late K3s?

Or was my leg being pulled? 

Thanks,

Doug W5JV




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Re: [Elecraft] Old topic RE: CM500

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Here is what I posted almost a year ago ...

So far both rebuilt sets are holding up as expected.  I have
not had occasion to check if the links given are still valid
- particularly since I picked up enough spares to rebuild both
sets a second time .

I would not recommend the "goop" method as using the correct
cushions the way they were designed is quick, easy and neat.


 Forwarded Message 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] CM 500 Ear Covers - Update
Date: Sun, 21 May 2023 12:23:30 -0400
From: Joe Subich, W4TV 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net



A follow-up ...

Since I had two pairs of CM-500 that needed refurbishment
(my original pair - without any cushions - and my current
pair - that is starting to flake), I took a chance and
ordered cushions for the Koss QZPRO.
 <https://koss.com/products/qzpro-ear-cushion>
They arrived a couple weeks ago and appear to be a perfect
fit for the CM-500.  I would guess they are the same as the
suggested UR-20 cushions (which are "Sold Out").

As the foam was also gone (original pair) or falling apart
(current pair), I started looking for a suitable replacement
as I did not want to do a cut up sock and double stick tape
as suggested in one You Tube video.  I found these:
<https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WN8SWHR>
These are 90 mm round and I was able to simply tuck them
between the QZPRO cushions and the face of the CM-500
"speakers" after installing the new cushions.  There was
no need to cut them down to fit the recesses of the CM-500
and hold them in place using double stick tape.  The foam
is a bit thicker and softer than the original Yamaha (Koss).

Finally, and probably not necessary, I added cloth covers ...
<https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B7JCY8H>
Although I took a chance and got a spare set of the cushions and
foam disks for each of my CM-500s, I decided the extra protection
from sweat, etc. was probably worthwhile for the long term.  I
went with black but a station with multiple operators could use
a different color for each operator.

All in all, replacing the cushions and adding new foam is quite
easy - no broken speaker wires if one is careful.  Getting to
the three screws (Phillips #0) is easy once one learns where
they are (front and +/- 120 degrees).  For $18 total per headset
for cushions ($5), foam disks ($9) and covers ($8 for 2 pair)
the cost is far less than an equivalent replacement headset
(the CM-500 is currently $60 on Amazon).

73,

... Joe, W4TV






On 2/14/2024 3:32 PM, Jim Leder wrote:

I have two Yamaha CM500 headsets that I really like. However, both are 
suffering from the ear pad deterioration problem. A long time back I saw 
several postings suggesting replacement ear pads AND the foam inside cover. 
Naturally now I can't find them. I would like to rebuild at least one of them 
via the 'goop' (glue) method. Any recommendations for both the ear pad AND the 
foam inside cover?

Thanks,

Jim Leder ... K8CXM



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[Elecraft] Fwd: My K3S Has Issues- Ideas?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

ISSUE: When the Power Output is increased over 12 watts the receiver 
sensitivity decreases several S-Units and power output goes to Zero.



So I'm wondering if this could be something besides dead finals?

TR switch diodes (one or more of D7, D8, D9, D1) on the LPA3?

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2/11/2024 2:53 PM, RVZ via Elecraft wrote:

Hi Guys,
  I've tried the rest and still love my K3S the best!  However, K3S Serial #11797 has 
developed a serious issue and Elecraft service is back logged 8 weeks so I'd appreciate 
your thoughts on getting my K3S repaired  ISSUE: When the Power Output is increased over 
12 watts the receiver sensitivity decreases several S-Units and power output goes to 
Zero.  I realize this sounds like the dreaded KPA3A "dead finals" issue but I'm 
surprised that the receiver sensitivity drops like it does.  So I'm wondering if this 
could be something besides dead finals? Also, any recommendations for K3S repair service 
other than Elecraft?  I love Elecraft Service but I don't want to wait 8 weeks plus 
shipping time for repair. Thanks in advance for your recommendations! 73, Dick- K9OM   
(r...@aol.com)
  



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 SUB-RX audio

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

In Windows Sound Control Panel ... select the Recording tab
then select "microphone (USB Audio CODEC)" - the KIO3B ...
select the Advanced tab and make sure Default Format is
to "2 ch, 16 bit, 48000 Hz (DVD Quality)"

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 1/6/2024 2:11 AM, ev...@pa2kw.com wrote:

Setup was:

*   K3 with SUB-RX and MicroHam MKII
*   ANT 1 = TX antenna, RX-ANT (BNC) = Receive antenna.

  


When using the SUB-RX (I think even in Diversity mode), with JTDX I was able to 
“listen” to the Left audio channel which was the SUB-RX (receive antenna)

  


A while ago I installed the KIO3B board. All seems to work fine but….

Whatever I try to change, I’m not able to “listen” to the SUB-RX with JTDX 
anymore.

I do hear both receivers in my headphone Main = Right ear, Sub = Left ear.

Is the Audio Codec signal a MONO channel or is it a setting in the K3 I didn’t 
think of?

  


Any help appreciated.

  


73, Evert PA2KW

  


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Re: [Elecraft] User's Dilemma

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 12/15/2023 3:09 PM, Bob McGraw wrote:


There were other reasons as well, but I agree with Joe, W4TV, the
expert knowledge base is in Watsonville.

My cost/benefit analysis did not even consider the knowledge base
that exists in Watsonville.  Time to repair (TTR) would likely be
15 to 20% longer in a remote/independent facility.  The remote
facility would not be likely to have access to any repair history
(or saved manufacturing configuration files) for the device being
repaired that exist in Watsonville nor would technicians in the
remote facility have the benefit of the experience (institutional
memory) of the more experienced technicians.

Again, manufacturers are regularly finding it more cost effective
to add repair technicians at a central location (*IF* they can find
qualified technicians) than to establish remote maintenance facilities
- that has been true for 20 years or more at this point.

Unfortunately, Elecraft are in a difficult situation ... they are in
a very high cost environment with significant competition for skilled
technicians.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 12/15/2023 3:09 PM, Bob McGraw wrote:
I can totally agree with Joe, W4TV.   At one time I was repairing radios 
for various companies.  I was doing warranty and non-warranty repairs. 
The companies decided it was cost ineffective to maintain independent 
repair services.  Hence, I no longer repair radios, and no longer have 
test equipment to do so. There were other reasons as well, but I agree 
with Joe, W4TV, the expert knowledge base is in Watsonville.


73

Bob, K4TAX


On 12/15/2023 11:57 AM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote:

Message: 5
Date: Thu, 14 Dec 2023 13:03:23 -0500
From: "Joe Subich, W4TV"
To:elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] User's Dilemma
Message-ID:
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed



They clearly aren't interested in setting up a third party repair
center.

Given the cost of setting up and running a second "factory
warranty/repair center" it just doesn't make sense.  Notice
that none of the other radio manufacturers offer duplicate
facilities on the east/west coast ... even those that did so
at one time have pulled back.

The cost of facilities, duplicate test equipment, duplicate
spare/repair parts, etc. simply can not be amortized economically
across one or two technicians.  It's far more efficient to simply
add another technician or two (*IF*  one can find a qualified tech)
"at the mothership".

73,

 ... Joe, W4TV



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Re: [Elecraft] User's Dilemma

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

They clearly aren't interested in setting up a third party repair
center.

Given the cost of setting up and running a second "factory
warranty/repair center" it just doesn't make sense.  Notice
that none of the other radio manufacturers offer duplicate
facilities on the east/west coast ... even those that did so
at one time have pulled back.

The cost of facilities, duplicate test equipment, duplicate
spare/repair parts, etc. simply can not be amortized economically
across one or two technicians.  It's far more efficient to simply
add another technician or two (*IF* one can find a qualified tech)
"at the mothership".

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 12/14/2023 12:38 PM, David Gilbert wrote:


People have been requesting that for years, but I've never even seen a 
response from Elecraft on it.  I doubt they will this time either.  They 
clearly aren't interested in setting up a third party repair center.


Dave   AB7E


On 12/14/2023 8:38 AM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
I love my K3/KPA-1500, and most all the Elecraft owners I know of 
around here share this enthusiasm.  Since the pandemic, though, the 
service department seems to be over-stressed, with delays of 5-7 weeks 
before repairs are begun seeming common.  For us on the East coast, 
you can add another 2 weeks for shipping.


I wonder if maybe it's time for Elecraft to lighten the burden in 
Watsonville by empowering someone else (maybe on the East Coast) to do 
repairs.





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Re: [Elecraft] Yamaha CM500 Headset

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Both of my CM500s - one a dozen or so years old, the other about
five hears old - have stops that limit the mic rotation to around
160 degrees (just shy of vertical up to just shy of vertical down).

I see no way of putting the mic on the right side - at least
without completely disassembling and removing any stops (if
they are removable) and potentially swapping the left/right ear
cups.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 10/11/2023 3:19 PM, Richard wrote:

I just received my Yamaha CM500 headset and I have a question.

Can the mic boom be swiveled around counterclockwise so the mic can be on my 
right side?

Didn’t want to try before asking.

Please reply to my email address:

flat...@comcast.net

Many thanks.

Richard Kunc
W4KBX




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Re: [Elecraft] Behringer XM1800S Mic Does not work on k3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

How have you wired the cable?  The Behringer mic is designed (XLR 3)
for a balanced audio connection.  Wire the cable with pin 2 of the
XLR to the tip of a 3.5mm plug, pin 3 to the sleeve of the 3.5mm
plug and the cable shield to the sleeve of the 3.5mm plug (no
connection to the XLR).  Connect the 3.5mm plug to the rear panel
Mic jack.

Select CONFIG:MIC rP.H (rear panel, high gain) and make sure the
slide switch on the mic is *ON*.

If you want to use the front panel mic jack, connect XLR pin 2 to
pin 1 and XLR pin 3 to pin 7, a cable shield can be connected to
pin 8.

The Behringer mic does not include a PTT switch.  You will need
to use the K3 TX button, VOX or connect a hand/foot switch to
the PTT (RCA) jack on the rear panel of the rig.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 9/27/2023 9:29 AM, E-mail-Server wrote:

Im trying to connect the Behringer XM1800S as an external mc on my K3. I have 
tried all of the configurations possible in the MAIN menu with no joy.  Before 
I break down ( and suffer my XYL's consternation) to buy a compatible Heil 
product, does anyone have any suggestions?

I have the same setup I am trying to use on a Heil proset with no issues.  I 
suspect the mic is the primary issue since it is not an electret mic.
Any suggestions are appreciated.
PatAB8PS(former W8LNO)



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Volume knob failure: second time!

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> Anyone know if this knob is still available?

E980091/E980092 are both listed at
  
$8.95 each ($19.00 for the pair)

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 9/23/2023 11:24 AM, Tom Doligalski via Elecraft wrote:

Took K3 #969 to the beach this week and was surprised to see the main volume
AF knob had failed (split in half at the point where the set-screw is). This
is the second time I've had this happen (in over a decade!).

  


Anyone know if this knob is still available?

  


The tech support form appears to be inoperative on the Elecraft web site.

  


73 Tom W4KX

  


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Re: [Elecraft] AT1 Attenuator

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Looking at the AT1 manual, the switches and traces are certainly
not 50 Ohm transmission lines.  As such, one gets all kinds of
stray behavior.  While you do not say at what frequency or range
of frequencies you made your test, I would suspect you will see
higher SWR as one goes up in frequency and that the departure
from 50 + j0 will be higher on 144 MHz than on 1.8 MHz.

As a general matter, one may be able to "flatten" the SWR somewhat
by placing (and "tuning") shunt capacitors across the input/output
BNC connectors to compensate for the inductance of the traces and
switches.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 9/22/2023 10:14 AM, Steve Gray wrote:

I have purchased a second user AT1 recently, largely due to the ruinous 
TransAtlantic logistics costs, but also the ongoing absence of any support here 
in The UK.

Although purely from observation of the circuit topology it seems reasonable to 
assume that it is not a constant impedance array of resistors, I was quite 
surprised to see the high SWR readings recorded after connecting a good dummy 
load and an antenna analyser- encroaching as it does well into double figure 
readings. My received wisdom being that these devices need to look into a 50 
Ohms load to preserve accuracy.

I have checked all the resistors and they are extraordinarily accurate leading 
me to believe that it has not been cooked by the/a previous owner, and 
confirming the quality of Elecraft dedigns. I also noted that the greater the 
level of attenuation, the lower the SWR is with the lowest attenuation 
displaying the worst result, and the highest displaying a near perfect match, 
but I guess that is not surprising because it is attenuating the reflected RF 
too. What I would like is some reassurance that such elevated SWR readings are 
to be expected for a nominally 50 Ohms stepped attenuator of this nature set to 
the lower levels of attenuation.

Steve, G4VRR.
e ...



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Re: [Elecraft] K2 Band Data

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I see that the aux bus cable - for PC connection - is documented.
Looks like pin 1 is the shell, pin 2 & 3 are the RXD and TXD, and pin
5 is the common. And the protocol is async RS-232 4800 baud, 2 stop
bits.

That part is the standard CAT interface.  There are several MCU based
band decoders that use the Elecraft/Kenwood CAT protocol (either the
AI "auto-information" data or polling) to derive band data.

CAT Protocol documentation is available in the Elecraft web site
download area.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 9/1/2023 7:42 PM, jerry wrote:

On 2023-09-01 12:55, Michael Carter wrote:

Hi Jerry,

There is no simple access to band data in
the K2 unless you want to reverse engineer
the AUXBUS protocol.


*** Considering that it's probably a low-speed
async protocol, that might not be that hard.

   Depending on how

your homebrew amp selects its lowpass
filter options, you may be able to pick up
the relay control signals for the K2's bandpass
and lowpass filter banks and use those
to encode a band data word in the format
used by Yaesu.


*** Yeah, I was thinking of doing just that.  Little
green wires and a pin header.  Then a little board with
a microprocessor to convert the 1-low-per-band to the
needed 4-bit word.  Might be able to do it with a diode
matrix.

  There is no isolated connector

on the K2 Front Panel, Control, or RF boards
that makes available those relay control lines,
so you would have to tap the traces where
those control signals are exposed.

Perhaps you can comment more on the
homebrew amp design with regard to
lowpass filter selection?


*** Sure.  The amp uses a W6PQL RF deck and LPF.  It has a
four-inch touch screen and a Teensy 4.1 microprocessor card.  I
wrote the software.  It's my third recent solid state linear, and
I burned out my share of devices on the other two.  Didn't want
to burn out this one - it's a $230 chip soldered to a heat spreader,
and would be both expensive and a PITA to replace.  So there is no
bandswitch.  In addition, there is a protection card that turns off the
power to the RF deck for

* Excessive drive
* Excessive drain current
* Excessive power output
* Excessive antenna SWR
* Wrong LPF selected

    Even with that last, I prefer to have the linear set its band
from the exciter data.  Belt & suspenders...

    People have commented that I should find Elecraft's universal adapter.
My answer to that is - yeah it would be easy, but not much fun.  I have
plenty of radios

The band data is a four-bit word.  1 = +5V, 0 = 0V.
 - illegal.
0001 - 160M
0010 - 80M
...etc.
 - illegal

It works flawlessly with my FTDX10.  It also works with my T41-EP homebrew
transceiver.  The linear doesn't have true TTL
inputs:  its internal CPU is a 3.3V device, so there is a voltage 
divider at each

band data input.

I see that the aux bus cable - for PC connection - is documented.  Looks 
like pin 1
is the shell, pin 2 & 3 are the RXD and TXD, and pin 5 is the common. 
And the protocol
is async RS-232 4800 baud, 2 stop bits.  There is also power available ( 
I assume 12V )
max 50mA on pin 8.  I think an AtTiny84 would do it - but I'd need to 
also put in an

RS-232 converter chip to deal with that pesky negative voltage.

There's another pin called "AuxBus".  That's probably a more difficult 
nut to crack.


     - Jerry, KF6VB



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[Elecraft] Fwd: K2 Band Data

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 9/1/2023 2:36 PM, jerry wrote:


 Is there any convenient connector inside the radio with band data?


No.  You would need to tap and decode Elecraft's proprietary AuxBus
control data.


Doesn't have to be the 4-bit binary that
the linear expects... I would make up something to convert it.


Your best solution would be acquire an Elecraft KRC2 Band Decoder:


73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 9/1/2023 2:36 PM, jerry wrote:

Hello All,

    I'm interested in putting my K2 on the air with my homebrew LDMOS 
linear.   My amp doesn't have a bandswitch - it gets Yaesu band data. 
Follows the transceiver from band to band like a puppy.  I like it that 
way, because
it's always on the right band, and I don't fry the LDMOS.  The linear 
gives full output with about 10W of drive - so a perfect match for the 
base K2.


    Is there any convenient connector inside the radio with band data? 
Doesn't have to be the 4-bit binary that

the linear expects... I would make up something to convert it.

     - Jerry, KF6VB



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Re: [Elecraft] Interesting observations after installing antenna switch

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Download (or look at) the schematic for the switch/controller.
It has 3.3V zener diodes across each of the BCD inputs.  The
K3/K3S has pull-up resistors to *5 V* on each of the BCD
outputs.

The switch is not allowing the inputs to the KPA500 to reach
the 5V necessary to resister as "High" thus the input is
always  (or 60 Meters).

I suggest you contact the designer/manufacturer of your switch
and ask him what hi will do to fix his defective product (since
he claims compatibility with Elecraft).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 8/29/2023 3:37 PM, W3FPR wrote:

Ken,

Check the voltage/current ratings on the band data lines for both the 
amp and your antenna switch.
It sounds like they may not be compatible.  60 meters is encoded as 
"", so if the voltage is not high enough (perhaps due to 
insufficient current), it will show 60 meters.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 8/29/2023 3:25 PM, ken.k...@gmail.com wrote:
Hi Ray.  Either I was unclear in my description, or it was mis-read.  
According to the display of the amplifier, it is ALWAYS set for the 60 
meter band, regardless of what band I am actually operating.





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Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 8/8/2023 12:16 AM, Jack Brindle via Elecraft wrote:
As contesters who wear headphones as much as 48 hours straight on 
weekends, we find comfort to be one of the most important assets of 
any headphone.

Here is the key!  K8JHR calls the CM500 earpads "flat and lack luster"
but they are larger than the majority of "on the ear" computer and
gaming headsets.  For many of us, the important attribute of a headset
is earphones completely surround the ear without placing excess pressure
on the side of the head, particularly on the temple pieces of glasses
while simultaneously providing modest isolation from room noises and
are not "heavy" on the top of the head and neck.

I know there are $300-$500 broadcast headsets (Beyer, Audio Technica,
Senheiser, etc.) but I for one certainly am not going to try multiple
professional headsets until I find one that is comfortable for even
six hours at a time.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 8/8/2023 12:16 AM, Jack Brindle via Elecraft wrote:

As contesters who wear headphones as much as 48 hours straight on weekends, we 
find comfort to be one of the most important assets of any headphone.
There are LOTS of headphones that sound great, have outstanding performance 
both in their speakers and microphone. But, they make you feel like your
head is in a vice after just a few hours of wear. If the headphone is 
uncomfortable, then no matter what its other characteristics are, they will be 
thrown in the trash.
The CM-500 happens to be one of the most comfortable headset for long-term wear 
(many of us feel that way). Many others (some mentioned in this discussion)
don’t come close. I also have a pair of the KOSS version of this headset. It is 
back in its box - wearing it is very uncomfortable for me. Like others, I have 
tried many
different headphones put out by many companies. This past weekend, for NAQP CW, 
the CM-500s were on my head for 10 hours. With the CM-500s out of production,
I’m not sure what I will turn to when these wear out. I do know that none of 
the computer gaming headsets I have tried fit the bill. And I had the privilege 
of trying out
many of the headsets from a major gaming device company I worked for as a 
design engineer.

Now, before you put down others, find out what their requirements really are.  
It might not be the same thing as yours.

73,
Jack, W6FB



On Aug 7, 2023, at 9:44 PM, JHR  wrote:

Ahem.   CM-500 headset.   Meh.   Uninspiring old school.

I was a long time microphone and headset product test and review writer for the speech 
recognition trade - including both vendors and manufacturers, such as IBM, Microsoft, Nuance, 
Scansoft, Lernhout & Hauspie, Dragon Systems, Kurzeweil AI, and many hardware resellers.  
 I suppose that made me an "influencer" long before that became a popular pastime 
for teenagers broadcasting from their bedrooms on YouTube.

I tested A LOT of microphones and headsets of all kinds, including the CM-500 
which appears to be a rebranded $29 KOSS SB-40  with an very low cost electret 
capsule instead of the original more costly dynamic cartridge.  I have repaired 
multiple CM-500s which broke down during service at a multi-multi contest 
station and at friends' home stations.  The microphone is nothing more than a 
thirty cent condenser capsule - exactly what umpty-thousand other headsets 
have.  The stock ear pads are flat and lack luster.  The earphone receivers 
(speakers) are mediocre at best.  The product has been in production for a long 
time, so it is fairly long in the tooth. Bottom line - there is nothing 
special, wonderful, or exciting about the CM-500.  Really.

You can substitute any number of similar computer grade headsets for the CM-500 
and obtain equivalent or (likely) BETTER audio and mechanical performance.  
Shoot, the KOSS SB 45/49 cost around $35-$40 (street price) and is as good - 
which makes me wonder why anyone would pay nearly $60 for the Yamaha model.  
And still, you could substitute most any well constructed computer gaming 
headset and achieve similar results - and perhaps realize better longevity and 
durability.

Hams are a funny lot.  Some spend thousands on their transceivers, before spending 
substantial additional sums on big money audio equipment (which is not needed, but I 
digress)  while cheaping it on other links in the audio chain.  But then, the CM-500 is 
proof one merely needs a thirty cent electret capsule to get good results on the air!  
And, yet, it is far from the headset I would choose.   In my opinion, Mr. X lost 
substantial credibility as an audio consultant insisting the CM-500 is something special 
(practically insisting it is the Holy Grail of ham headsets ...)  but then, most hams 
always recommend what they have, as if there was no other option worth considering.  
Moreover, many hams just ask what other guys are using, and repeat their choices 
(mistakes?),  without doing their own research, and failing to make an independent 
judgment as to what 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Get a Heil AD1-K or the INRAD equivalent adapter.  That will
provide you an 1/8" jack for the mic and a 1/4" jack for a
foot switch or hand PTT from the front panel regardless of
what headset you end up selecting.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 8/7/2023 1:30 PM, Eric Fitzgerald wrote:

Wow,

Thank you everybody!  I really appreciate the time you all took to give 
such well-informed responses.


I still digesting everybody's thoughtful insights.  One thing that seems 
apparent is that my front panel requirement may well go by the wayside, 
but that is hardly a deal-breaker. I will be operating this set-up 
exclusively out of doors for POTA, drive up SOTA and grid expeditions. 
Wind will often be a factor - especially on summits.


With the Kenwood MC-60 the PTT was in the base of this desk mic. I like 
the idea of a foot switch, but maybe an inline PTT would be better in 
that is one less item to lug around.  What's everybody using there?


I'll keep you posted on my quest's results.

Thanks again for the cornucopia of information.

73 Eric KG6MZS

PS;

Here is a recent SOTA/Grid expedition with my old set-up:

https://kg6mzs.com/2023/05/22/blue-mountain-grid-dn12/




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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power-hunting on FT8

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Doppler caused "spreading" is readily identified ... the spreading is
generally in one direction (because airport "patterns" run in one
direction) and often manifests as a second signal offset by 60-80 Hz
(which can be independently decoded).  IMD is generally in both
directions and can not be decoded.

The *most disgusting* distortion is on signals in which the owner
pumps audio into a dynamic mic input and overdrives the mic preamp.
The mic gain control of most traditional rigs follows the preamp
and the preamp is often into clipping - particularly when the "speaker"
or headphone output of a sound card is run into a dynamic mic input
without an attenuator.  Electret inputs typically require a 20 dB
(10:1 voltage - 10 K series, 1K parallel resistors) attenuator while
dynamic inputs call for a 40 dB (100:1 - 47 K series, 470 Ohm parallel)
attenuator.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 7/23/2023 3:13 PM, Jim Brown wrote:

On 7/23/2023 9:49 AM, Andy Durbin wrote:
It is my belief that many of the wide FT8 signals seen on 6 m FT8 are 
caused by Doppler shifted aircraft reflections.  It's very common here 
in the Phoenix metro area and does not imply that the transmitted 
signal was in any way abnormal.


YES! It's very common anywhere around airports with much traffic. We see 
lots of it in the SF Bay area -- N5KO, W6RN, WB6RJH, and I are roughly 
20 miles from SJC (San Jose) 30 miles from SFO (San Francisco), a little 
farther from OAK (Oakland). There are other propagation-related causes 
for spreading signals.


73, Jim K9YC


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Re: [Elecraft] Power hunting

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 7/23/2023 11:48 AM, Gmail wrote:
Unlike many other digital modes, FT8 is a constant carrier, constant 
envelope mode.


This is true for any "N of M tone" FSK mode where N is 1.  However,
the DSP filtering in both the K3 and K4 has a finite delay which
causes some "spreading" of energy from one bit to the next which
means there is *some* level of both tones present during the transition.

This two tone condition *can* result in IMD.  Since both the K3 and K4
are "100W, 12V" final amplifiers, the finals will begin to go into gain
compression (the early stages of saturation) at around 80W (look at the
data sheets on the final devices) and will produce IMD if run with the
PWR control above the onset of compression - *EVEN WITH A "CONSTANT*
*CARRIER, CONSTANT ENVELOPE" MODE*

The proper solution to this "excess" IMD is not reducing the ALC (audio
drive to the ADC and DSP modulator) but reduce the POWER OUTPUT until
the amplifier is operating in its linear (no gain compression) range -
or about 80W for most "100W, 12V" rigs.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 7/23/2023 11:48 AM, Gmail wrote:

Unlike many other digital modes, FT8 is a constant carrier, constant envelope 
mode. The ALC level will quickly settle at a constant value and should not 
hunt. ALC does not affect FT8 transmissions. My K4 goes to 5 and never changes 
and peak power on an external analog meter does not change.
Perhaps I will try 7, monitoring signal on my Rigol SA and see what happens.

   I wonder if the 5 recommendation for the K4 is more for non constant 
envelope modes, to keep the level below the ALC threshold.  Some insight  from 
Elecraft would be helpful.
Oh, as has been pointed out to me previously unlike my K3, 5 on my K4 is not 5 
bars.
Ray
W8LYJ


Sent from my iPad



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Power-hunting on FT8

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Are you sure the "technically-qualified local ham" was not running his
tests in SSB instead of DATA A?  There are more than a few "technically-
qualified" individuals who insist on using SSB instead of DATA_A with
WSJTX and that makes all the difference in the ALC display.

Again, READ THE K3 OWNERS MANUAL and do what the manufacturer says.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 7/20/2023 10:33 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
OK guys - rather than reply individually, let me try to pull everything 
together in one message.


In a previous effort at FT8 I followed the standard advice to set the 
power slider in WSJT-X (on the lower RIGHT side) so that my K-3 showed 4 
bars on the ALC meter, just below the threshold for ALC starting, and 
that seemed to work fine.  Then a technically-qualified local ham showed 
me spectrum analyzer images of a K-3 at 4 bars versus at no bars, and 
the difference was startling - the no bars signal was clean and narrow, 
while the 4-bars signal looked like some of those SSB sigs we hear 
during contests, wide and with many artifacts.  I am not going to 
identify my source here, but I'm fairly sure he reads this reflector, so 
maybe he'll join the discussion


Anyway, I'm kind of at sea - WSJT-X works fine with no bars - I've 
finished 12 and 17M, as well as digital DXCC in the last few weeks, 
following his advice.  But the hunting typically takes almost 20 seconds 
of transmitting - roughly 1 1/2 FT-8 cycles - to reach full power - and 
happens every time I change bands, which puts me behind the curve if I 
switch bands, see someone I need, and have to spend 1 1/2 transmit 
cycles getting up to full power before I can call him effectively.


73, Pete N4ZR




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Re: [Elecraft] K3s Receive EQ

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Parametric EQs are much less flexible than a graphical.
When it comes to graphical, the RX EQ built into the K3
is much better suited to the job at hand than most of
the small 6/7/8 band consumer products that generally
have "bands" up to 20 or 40 KHz that are wasted for
our purposes.

The K3 RX EQ maintains separate settings for SSB and CW.
I generally set CW to max cut for 50/100 and -6/10/12
for 1600/2400/3200 (my pitch is ~500 Hz).  SSB is set to
max cut at 50/100, flat at 200/400/800, +2/4 at 1600/2400
and -8 at 3200 (to roll off a hit of the hiss).

Those settings are not as "hard" as some would suggest
for TX EQ but seem to help.  For phone one could push
the 1600/2400 boost a bit but too much boost will do
more harm that good.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 6/26/2023 9:17 AM, Dave New, N8SBE wrote:

Here's a receive equalizer:

https://bhi-ltd.com/products/noise-cancellation-products/parapro-eq20-audio-dsp-range/1-parapro-eq20-dsp.html

Gigaparts and DX Engineering are two US dealers for this UK-based company.

73,
-- Dave, N8SBE

On 2023-06-26 09:13, Dave New, N8SBE wrote:
My apologies.  The equalizers linked to below are for TRANSMIT, not 
receive.


That's what I get for not reading thoroughly before hitting the 'send' 
button.


73,
-- Dave, N8SBE

On 2023-06-26 09:10, Dave New, N8SBE wrote:

Richard,

While reading your inquiry below, I was reminded of this:

https://w2ihy.com/product-category/equalizers/

I've never used one, but I've seen their booth at many prior Dayton 
Hamventions, so I guess they've been in business for a while, is 
saying a lot for many ham-related business these days.


Hope this helps.

73,
-- Dave, N8SBE

On 2023-06-26 02:05, Richard wrote:
I love my K3s, warts and all, but I want a way to tailor incoming 
audio for better readability in special cases. Yes, I know about the 
built-in function, but that's hardly comfortable for quick, 
on-the-fly adjustments.


Can you recommend/suggest an outboard equalizer, ideally 8 bands, 
that can be used to tune the headphone audio only?


1. This unit would be entirely external to the K3s, so its output 
level would have to be sufficient to drive headphones.


2. This unit would ideally be 9" by 9" maximum and 8" by 5" minimum, 
dictated by the available placement space in my station. There’s 
lots of wiggle room here.


3. 12 volts DC is available to power it.

4. An in/out (inline/bypassed) switch is essential.

Links to look at would be great.

Fingers crossed … VISA paid up and ready to rock and roll.

Cheers

Richard Kunc
W4KBX




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Re: [Elecraft] CM 500 Ear Covers - Update

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

A follow-up ...

Since I had two pairs of CM-500 that needed refurbishment
(my original pair - without any cushions - and my current
pair - that is starting to flake), I took a chance and
ordered cushions for the Koss QZPRO.
<https://koss.com/products/qzpro-ear-cushion>
They arrived a couple weeks ago and appear to be a perfect
fit for the CM-500.  I would guess they are the same as the
suggested UR-20 cushions (which are "Sold Out").

As the foam was also gone (original pair) or falling apart
(current pair), I started looking for a suitable replacement
as I did not want to do a cut up sock and double stick tape
as suggested in one You Tube video.  I found these:
   <https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WN8SWHR>
These are 90 mm round and I was able to simply tuck them
between the QZPRO cushions and the face of the CM-500
"speakers" after installing the new cushions.  There was
no need to cut them down to fit the recesses of the CM-500
and hold them in place using double stick tape.  The foam
is a bit thicker and softer than the original Yamaha (Koss).

Finally, and probably not necessary, I added cloth covers ...
   <https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B7JCY8H>
Although I took a chance and got a spare set of the cushions and
foam disks for each of my CM-500s, I decided the extra protection
from sweat, etc. was probably worthwhile for the long term.  I
went with black but a station with multiple operators could use
a different color for each operator.

All in all, replacing the cushions and adding new foam is quite
easy - no broken speaker wires if one is careful.  Getting to
the three screws (Phillips #0) is easy once one learns where
they are (front and +/- 120 degrees).  For $18 total per headset
for cushions ($5), foam disks ($9) and covers ($8 for 2 pair)
the cost is far less than an equivalent replacement headset
(the CM-500 is currently $60 on Amazon).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 5/8/2023 6:14 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:


On 5/2/2023 12:03 PM, Walter Underwood wrote:

The Koss UR-20 is the same headphone as the Yamaha CM-500 and Koss 
SB-40, but without a boom mic. The link to these replacements was 
posted in this email reflector (11/1/19) by Josh W6XU. These are the 
ones I ordered. 


Unfortunately, the SB-40 ear cushions are "Sold Out" at Koss.  The 
QZPRRO headset ear cups appeared to be the same size/shape so I

ordered a couple pairs (both of my CM-500s need new cushions) and
they fit just fine: <https://koss.com/products/qzpro-ear-cushion>
The foam in both of my headsets has also deteriorated but the QZPRO
cushions do not come with replacement foam.  My next step is to find
a source for that foam.

For the benefit of others, the earphone cups of the CM-500 are
98.4 mm (3 7/8") x 93.6 (3 11/16") - a standard 100 or 105 mm
(round) headphone pad should work.  However, since the screws
holding the headphones together are located under the cushions and
the cushions are clamped between the face and cup of the headphones,
cushions with built in foam screens will not work.

The foam screens are 80 mm (3 1/8") x 60 mm (2 3/8") and are
fixed to the face of the headphone with double stick tape.  One
could probably use 98 x 93 mm foam and simply slide it between
the earpad and the face of the headphone after the earpad has
been replaced.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV



On 5/2/2023 12:03 PM, Walter Underwood wrote:
Replacement ear pads are available, but the internal wiring is very 
fragile.


I managed to get the replacements on, but broke a wire. After four 
breaks and three re-solderings, there wasn’t enough wire left to work 
with, so I bought a new headset.


The Koss UR-20 is the same headphone as the Yamaha CM-500 and Koss 
SB-40, but without a boom mic. The link to these replacements was 
posted in this email reflector (11/1/19) by Josh W6XU. These are the 
ones I ordered.


https://www.koss.com/accessories/cushions/ur20-ear-cushion

This video walks you through the replacement steps.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gz-atFziEz4

This guy just glued on the new ones, which might be a safer approach.

http://n4cf.mdodd.com/cm500_pads.html

wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog)


On May 2, 2023, at 7:24 AM, Paul Ecker  wrote:

Realize this subject has been around before, most of postings in 
archives

are dated. Does anyone have a good current source for replacement ear
covers for the Yamaha CM 500 Headset?

73 Paul w2eck



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Re: [Elecraft] CM 500 Ear Covers

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 5/2/2023 12:03 PM, Walter Underwood wrote:

The Koss UR-20 is the same headphone as the Yamaha CM-500 and Koss 
SB-40, but without a boom mic. The link to these replacements was 
posted in this email reflector (11/1/19) by Josh W6XU. These are the 
ones I ordered.

Unfortunately, the SB-40 ear cushions are "Sold Out" at Koss.  The
QZPRRO headset ear cups appeared to be the same size/shape so I ordered
a couple pairs (both of my CM-500s need new cushions) and they fit
just fine: 

The foam in both of my headsets has also deteriorated but the QZPRO
cushions do not come with replacement foam.  My next step is to find
a source for that foam.

For the benefit of others, the earphone cups of the CM-500 are
98.4 mm (3 7/8") x 93.6 (3 11/16") - a standard 100 or 105 mm
(round) headphone pad should work.  However, since the screws
holding the headphones together are located under the cushions and
the cushions are clamped between the face and cup of the headphones,
cushions with built in foam screens will not work.

The foam screens are 80 mm (3 1/8") x 60 mm (2 3/8") and are
fixed to the face of the headphone with double stick tape.  One
could probably use 98 x 93 mm foam and simply slide it between
the earpad and the face of the headphone after the earpad has
been replaced.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV



On 5/2/2023 12:03 PM, Walter Underwood wrote:

Replacement ear pads are available, but the internal wiring is very fragile.

I managed to get the replacements on, but broke a wire. After four breaks and 
three re-solderings, there wasn’t enough wire left to work with, so I bought a 
new headset.

The Koss UR-20 is the same headphone as the Yamaha CM-500 and Koss SB-40, but 
without a boom mic. The link to these replacements was posted in this email 
reflector (11/1/19) by Josh W6XU. These are the ones I ordered.

https://www.koss.com/accessories/cushions/ur20-ear-cushion

This video walks you through the replacement steps.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gz-atFziEz4

This guy just glued on the new ones, which might be a safer approach.

http://n4cf.mdodd.com/cm500_pads.html

wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog)


On May 2, 2023, at 7:24 AM, Paul Ecker  wrote:

Realize this subject has been around before, most of postings in archives
are dated. Does anyone have a good current source for replacement ear
covers for the Yamaha CM 500 Headset?

73 Paul w2eck



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Re: [Elecraft] Using KIO3B for digital and AFSK RTTY

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Nothing to read ... simply make sure you have *nothing*
connected to the Line IN jack and use "Speaker (USB CODEC)"
exactly as you have been using any external sound card.

Use AFSK_A as your RTTY mode, DATA_A as your general
digital (FT4/FT8) mode.  Set MENU:MIC_SEL = Line In
for Data modes and adjust Mic Gain for 4 bars of ALC.

Bottom line, "USB Audio CODEC" is a direct substitution
for any other sound card you may have been using previously.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 5/3/2023 11:10 AM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
Is there somewhere online where I can read about how to use the sound 
card in my KIO3B?  I am particularly interested in FT8 and AFSK RTTY, 
and the KIO3B installation instructions are zero help.



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Re: [Elecraft] TL-922

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

The TL-922 does not have snubber diodes across it 100V relays.
The back EMF spike will kill the KeyOut circuit in the K3.

*ALWAYS* use a key line buffer with a TL-922 that has not
been fitted with a soft key circuit.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 3/29/2023 8:25 AM, Mark Musick wrote:

Per the K3 manual page 17 the K3 can key +200VDC @ 5A.
No need to have a key line buffer if the amp keying voltage and current meet 
those specs.

73,
Mark, WB9CIF

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net  On 
Behalf Of James F. Boehner, MD via Elecraft
Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2023 11:55
To: 'Josep Torres' ; 'Elecraft Reflector' 

Subject: Re: [Elecraft] TL-922

Josep,

Be sure to install a soft-key interface in the TL-922 before hooking it up to 
the K3.

https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fharbachelectronics.com%2Fshop%2Fkenwood-tl-922%2Fsk-922-soft-key-keying-interface%2F=05%7C01%7C%7C3477a90435fe4f56f8db08db304cb2c8%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435%7C1%7C0%7C638156878191285160%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C=CtTlkUMq2f5c%2B0nckmeEK0YKKnhuYA1WQzNFfEbCFbo%3D=0

The newer rigs were not meant to handle the voltages on the older amplifier's 
keying circuits.

I modified mine with the soft-key board and added the new capacitor block.

'73 de JIM N2ZZ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net  On 
Behalf Of Josep Torres via Elecraft
Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2023 3:03 AM
To: Elecraft Reflector 
Subject: [Elecraft] TL-922

Hi guys,

Have a couple of Kenwood TL-922's around and was thinking to connect one to a 
K3.
Has anybody done so.? And if so, how have you done the wiring.?
Got 2 K3's (in fact I have 3 of 'em, but one not physically at now now) and 
maybe one day I can use the spare one with a TL-922 from another QTH.

Thanks,


73,

Josep
EA6BF
BUG #256  -  CWops #3072  -  FOC #2182 (ex 1724)



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Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Odd transmit power output behavior on TX DATA

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

One band or all bands?

Have you done the power calibration routine recently?

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-12-30 10:34 AM, Bill Coleman via Elecraft wrote:

I own two K3/100 radios. One is SN70xx, another SN87xx. On one of them, I 
observe an odd behavior with transmit power output.

Even though I have an antenna matched to nearly 1:1 VSWR using the internal 
tuner, any time I change bands, or adjust the power level, SN70XX does not put 
out full power right away. Instead, it starts about 40-50 watts, and then 
slowly creeps up to 100 watts. This takes about 4-6 15 second FT8 transmissions.

It doesn’t appear to behave this way on CW or SSB. Only on TX DATA modes.

My other radio doesn’t exhibit this behavior.

The two radios have different internal options, but many of the configuration 
parameters are the same.

Any suggestions?

Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: aa...@mac.com
Quote: "We invented personal computing."
   -- Bill Gates @ TechNet / MSDN 2003



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Re: [Elecraft] Yamaha Headphones

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-11-21 3:23 PM, Walter Underwood wrote:

> Yes, a $400 dynamic mic sounds great.

Many broadcast mics are nowhere near $400 (at least not when I
was specifying/buying them).  The hand mics you typically see
in the field on TV newscasts and the lavs on anchor lapels are
(where) < $150 ... the wireless transmitters that have become
ubiquitous are more expensive than the mic!

> But a $2 electret mic element sounds nearly as good.

An electret mic is much easier/cheaper to manufacture than an
equivalent dynamic capsule.  With the built-in FET follower,
the electret output is some 20-25dB higher than the dynamic
making RFI and hum reduction much easier to manage in consumer
electronics.  In addition, the electret does not suffer as
badly from the proximity effect that is common with all dynamic
mics (a benefit of using condenser mics for studio vocals -
particularly with vocalists that don't know good mic technique!).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-11-21 3:23 PM, Walter Underwood wrote:

That is exactly why I said “inexpensive” dynamic mics. Yes, a $400 dynamic mic 
sounds great. But a $2 electret mic element sounds nearly as good. Electrets 
are a really amazing technology, invented at Bell Labs. They are a cheap, 
rugged relative of the condenser mics used in studios.

Here is one for $1.50: https://www.adafruit.com/product/1064 


wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/  (my blog)


On Nov 21, 2022, at 12:03 PM, Al Lorona mailto:alor...@sbcglobal.net>> wrote:


An electret mic has much better fidelity than an inexpensive dynamic mic,
so the CM500 is probably a better choice.


Is that really true? If you looked inside all of your local AM broadcast 
stations, all you'd see are dynamic microphones.

I'm not sure why most headsets have electret mics. Maybe it's because they have 
a higher output which lessens the need for a lot of preamplification? I don't 
know.

Al  W6LX/4




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Re: [Elecraft] Recommendation for Microphone for K3s?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-11-02 12:34 PM, Lou Laderman via Elecraft wrote:

> Nobody has yet suggested RadioSport boomsets (Arlan Communications,

At $299 each (on sale) they are like the Heil headsets, grossly over
priced for what you get - 5 X the price for the CM500 or SB45.  The
RadioSport sets are much heavier/harder on the head and neck.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-11-02 12:34 PM, Lou Laderman via Elecraft wrote:

I’ve read a lot of comments about Heil and the Yamaha boomset. Nobody has yet 
suggested RadioSport boomsets (Arlan Communications, 
http://www.arlancommunications.com/products/amateurradio/radiosport/rs60cf.asp).
 I have several pairs. Although definitely on the high end of the market, they 
are superbly built and extremely comfortable, with both dynamic and electret 
condenser mic options. Some complain they’re too heavy, but I find them to be 
great for me.

73, Lou

Lou Laderman W0FK
Sent from my mobile device

On Nov 1, 2022, at 4:13 PM, Bernie and Cheryl  wrote:

Dear Folks:

Although I'm primarily a CW op, and dabble in FT8 (sadly, sometimes there's no 
one on anywhere else except for FT8), I'm thinking about expanding my SSB 
presence on the bands.  I have a K3s and would be interested if anyone has a 
specific recommendation for a good microphone?  I'm thinking about one of the 
Heil microphones (either the Heil Gold or the Heil HM-10XD) but am willing to 
look at anything else someone may recommend.

Thanks and 73 de Bernie, KF0QS


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Re: [Elecraft] Recommendation for Microphone for K3s?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Almost any quality microphone will work with the K3s ...

For a basic dynamic mic take a look at:

 



For an electret, even an inexpensive "computer mic" like this
will do a credible job:

 



With the dynamic mic you will need to build an XLR to 3.5mm or
XLR to Foster cable.  The electret will plug directly into the
rear panel mic jack.

There is no need to spend 5 to 50 times as much for something
marketed to hams .

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-11-01 5:12 PM, Bernie and Cheryl wrote:

Dear Folks:

Although I'm primarily a CW op, and dabble in FT8 (sadly, sometimes 
there's no one on anywhere else except for FT8), I'm thinking about 
expanding my SSB presence on the bands.  I have a K3s and would be 
interested if anyone has a specific recommendation for a good 
microphone?  I'm thinking about one of the Heil microphones (either the 
Heil Gold or the Heil HM-10XD) but am willing to look at anything else 
someone may recommend.


Thanks and 73 de Bernie, KF0QS



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Re: [Elecraft] K3S Receiver Issue on FT8

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

What is the "shift" in your K3?  Sounds like your center
frequency is somewhere around 2500 Hz instead of 1500 Hz.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-10-24 4:20 PM, RVZ via Elecraft wrote:

All of a sudden my K3S isn't receiving FT8 signals that are transmitting on 
frequencies under 950 khz even though it receives signals fine that are 
transmitting between 950 to 3,000 khz.  The receiver acts like I have the K3S 
filter width set to 950 or 1,000 khz but fact is the 2.8 khz crystal filter is 
selected along with a DSP width of 2.8 khz. Any ideas why my K3 is no longer 
receiving FT8 signals transmitting between 200-950 khz?By the way, my second K3 
receives FT8 signals on all frequencies fine so the problem doesn't appear to 
be WSJTx software related. Thanks!  Dick- K9OM


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Re: [Elecraft] K3S- USB problem

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Only have Comport 5 is available and while it will do basic radio 
control of the K3S such as band changes it won't transfer audio to 
the computer which is needed for digital modes. Any ideas why I lost 
my virtual ports 13 & 14 and how to get them back?

1) The K3S (or K3 with KIO3B) supports only one virtual serial
port.  If you had multiple ports you were using some other
software in addition to the basic USB serial driver.

2) Audio is handled by the USB ADUIO CLASS driver built into the
operating system.  I suggest you look for sound cards, etc. in
Windows Device Manager and see why it has disabled "USB Audio
CODEC" which is the sound device in the K3S and K3 with KIO3B.
Also check in Windows Sound Control Panel.

3) Windows 7 support ended *32 MONTHS AGO*.  You should not be
using an obsolete/abandoned operating system due to its large
number of unpatched security issues.  Your operating system is
a threat to every other computer user connected to the internet.

Using an unsecure operating system is in the class of using spark
on amateur radio or leaving an open mic while you operate FT8.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-09-17 1:04 AM, RVZ via Elecraft wrote:

Hi Guys,
  I've got a USB issue that I'm hoping you can help me resolve: My K3S had been communicating 
with my Windows 7 64-bit computer fine via a USB connection using virtual Comports 13 & 14. 
 I then removed the K3S from the computer in order to test a different radio.  Now I have the 
K3S connected to the computer again but  Comports 13 & 14 are no listed in Device Manager.  
Only have Comport 5 is available and while it will do basic radio control of the K3S such as 
band changes it won't transfer audio to the computer which is needed for digital modes. Any 
ideas why I lost my virtual ports 13 & 14 and how to get them back?  Thought: if you 
believe I need to download a FTDI Driver again please advise which one I should use for a 
Windows 7 64-bit computer as multiple drivers are listed and I downloaded one and it didn't 
resolve my issue. Thanks & 73, Dick- K9OM


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Re: [Elecraft] K3 INTERFACE WITH LDG Z100A

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-09-03 12:07 AM, Julia Tuttle wrote:

But it sounded like Greg could *not* find a K3-specific cable -- are
you saying there is one that he just hasn't found?

Again, that is why he should contact LDG.  They know (or should know)
their product line and what transceivers they support.

I looked up the Owner's Manual for the Z100A and it does not have
a "Molex" connector on the tuner.  The radio interface cable is a
miniDIN6.  The manual also does not list a cable for K3 (or any
Elecraft transceiver) - only the "IC106" cable for connecting power.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-09-03 12:07 AM, Julia Tuttle wrote:
But it sounded like Greg could *not* find a K3-specific cable -- are you 
saying there is one that he just hasn't found?


On Fri, Sep 2, 2022, 22:57 Joe Subich, W4TV <mailto:li...@subich.com>> wrote:


On 2022-09-02 9:09 PM, Julia Tuttle wrote:
 > That's an odd suggestion, Joe; LDG is no more responsible for the
 > ports on the K3 than Elecraft is for those on the Z100A. They may
 > have experience connecting a Z100A to a K3, but someone here may
 > likewise have experience connecting a K3 to a Z100A.
If LDG sell a cable they say will interface their tuner to a K3
they should be able to explain how to connect it and how to use
their product with the K3.  Neither Elecraft nor Elecraft users
are likely to know that information as Elecraft have their own
tuner solutions - the internal KAT3 and the external KAT500.

For years I supported third party product(s) with dozen of different
transceivers - Elecraft, Icom, Kenwood, Ten-Tec, Yaesu.  The product
was designed to be used with the transceivers when the transceiver
was operated exactly as the transceiver maker documented it their
own Operating/Instruction Manual.  The optional interconnection
cable had the appropriate connectors for the transceiver and each
connector was labeled to match the transceiver manufacturer's own
labels.

73,

     ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-09-02 9:09 PM, Julia Tuttle wrote:
 > That's an odd suggestion, Joe; LDG is no more responsible for the
ports on
 > the K3 than Elecraft is for those on the Z100A. They may have
experience
 > connecting a Z100A to a K3, but someone here may likewise have
experience
 > connecting a K3 to a Z100A.
 >
 > Greg, you'll need to take a look at the manuals for *both*
products and see
 > what their interfaces look like. Hopefully the needed signals
clearly match
 > up, but if not, feel free to come back to the list with the specific
 > signals you're having trouble routing or converting.
 >
     > 73,
     >
 > Julie
 >
 > On Fri, Sep 2, 2022, 18:32 Joe Subich, W4TV mailto:li...@subich.com>> wrote:
 >
 >>
 >> I suggest you contact LDG for help with their product.
 >>
 >> 73,
 >>
 >>      ... Joe, W4TV
 >>
 >>
 >> On 2022-09-02 5:46 PM, greg best wrote:
 >>> I have tried to find a cable that goes from my K3 to the LDG
Z100A tuner
 >> but all I see is just a cable with a Molex like connector going
to the
 >> tuner and nothing on the other end of the K3 except bare wires
(i.e. no
 >> connector). Does the tuner have to get connected to the K3 ACC
jack?  Or
 >> does someone have a wiring diagram so I can marry the correct
connections
 >> between the 2 units?
 >>>
 >>>
 >>>
 >>> 73’s,
 >>>
 >>> Greg N9GB
 >>>



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 INTERFACE WITH LDG Z100A

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-09-02 9:09 PM, Julia Tuttle wrote:

That's an odd suggestion, Joe; LDG is no more responsible for the
ports on the K3 than Elecraft is for those on the Z100A. They may
have experience connecting a Z100A to a K3, but someone here may
likewise have experience connecting a K3 to a Z100A.

If LDG sell a cable they say will interface their tuner to a K3
they should be able to explain how to connect it and how to use
their product with the K3.  Neither Elecraft nor Elecraft users
are likely to know that information as Elecraft have their own
tuner solutions - the internal KAT3 and the external KAT500.

For years I supported third party product(s) with dozen of different
transceivers - Elecraft, Icom, Kenwood, Ten-Tec, Yaesu.  The product
was designed to be used with the transceivers when the transceiver
was operated exactly as the transceiver maker documented it their
own Operating/Instruction Manual.  The optional interconnection
cable had the appropriate connectors for the transceiver and each
connector was labeled to match the transceiver manufacturer's own
labels.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-09-02 9:09 PM, Julia Tuttle wrote:

That's an odd suggestion, Joe; LDG is no more responsible for the ports on
the K3 than Elecraft is for those on the Z100A. They may have experience
connecting a Z100A to a K3, but someone here may likewise have experience
connecting a K3 to a Z100A.

Greg, you'll need to take a look at the manuals for *both* products and see
what their interfaces look like. Hopefully the needed signals clearly match
up, but if not, feel free to come back to the list with the specific
signals you're having trouble routing or converting.

73,

Julie

On Fri, Sep 2, 2022, 18:32 Joe Subich, W4TV  wrote:



I suggest you contact LDG for help with their product.

73,

 ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-09-02 5:46 PM, greg best wrote:

I have tried to find a cable that goes from my K3 to the LDG Z100A tuner

but all I see is just a cable with a Molex like connector going to the
tuner and nothing on the other end of the K3 except bare wires (i.e. no
connector). Does the tuner have to get connected to the K3 ACC jack?  Or
does someone have a wiring diagram so I can marry the correct connections
between the 2 units?




73’s,

Greg N9GB




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Re: [Elecraft] K3 INTERFACE WITH LDG Z100A

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I suggest you contact LDG for help with their product.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-09-02 5:46 PM, greg best wrote:

I have tried to find a cable that goes from my K3 to the LDG Z100A tuner but 
all I see is just a cable with a Molex like connector going to the tuner and 
nothing on the other end of the K3 except bare wires (i.e. no connector). Does 
the tuner have to get connected to the K3 ACC jack?  Or does someone have a 
wiring diagram so I can marry the correct connections between the 2 units?

  


73’s,

Greg N9GB



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Re: [Elecraft] External Preamp & RX ANT IN/OUT

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

What preamp are you using?  Specifically, what are you trying
to accomplish?

The basic answer is: connect RX Ant Out to the preamp input and
connect the preamp output to RX Ant In.  Activate (tap) RX ANT
to toggle the external preamp in/out.

If the preamp has its own bypass relay you can use CONFIG:DIGOUT1
(and any necessary external circuitry) to bypass the preamp on
a per band basis.  See: CONFIG:DIGOUT1 in the K3/K3S Owner Manual.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-08-31 8:33 AM, John Stengrevics wrote:

I was told that a preamp can be connected across the RX ANT IN/OUT jacks and 
that certain settings are then changed to make this work.

However, I cannot find anything in the manual or the Cady book that discusses 
this.

Appreciate any comments.

John
WA1EAZ



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Re: [Elecraft] switchbox KX3 to signalink/mike+headphones

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-07-23 9:34 PM, Brian Hunt wrote:
Pretty simple home brew project, I would think. Four stereo jacks, a 
DPDT switch, a small box and a capacitor should do it.

It would take a four pole double throw (mic, PTT, L Audio, R Audio)
or two DPDT switches.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-07-23 9:34 PM, Brian Hunt wrote:

Pretty simple home brew project, I would think. Four stereo jacks, a DPDT 
switch, a small box and a capacitor should do it. The capacitor is to block the 
mic bias from going to the Signalink. You would still likely have to adjust 
levels whenever switching. Would take some study to get all the connections 
right.

73,
Brian, K0DTJ


On Jul 23, 2022, at 17:29, Andrew (A.J.) Stockton via Elecraft 
 wrote:

You can check out a few on Amazon - common one headset between computer for 
web calls and second for gaming systems

Nobsound Little Bear MC1023 2-Way Audio Microphone Headset Speaker MIC Switcher 
Headphone Switch Hub Volume Control Controller Selector 3.5mm RCA 
https://a.co/d/7lg6yyp

A.J. Stockton


On Jul 23, 2022, at 7:33 PM, James Bennett via Elecraft 
 wrote:

For sure - I’d like to switch my Yamaha CM-500 headset between my K4D and an 
Icom IC-705. I currently have to use two separate headsets - a PITA to say the 
least.

Jim / K7TXA


On Jul 23, 2022, at 5:26 PM, Julia Tuttle  wrote:


I would be interested in such a gadget too! And it's not (just) lazy, it
also saves wear on the jacks. :)


On Sat, Jul 23, 2022 at 1:49 PM  wrote:

Is there a product, some kind of a little box,  that allows me to quickly
switch the KX3 mic/phones between SignaLink and  my mic and speakers ?

I know it sounds lazy !



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Re: [Elecraft] Stacking K3-line: variation on recent thread

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-07-23 7:13 PM, Ian Kahn wrote:
> If it were me, I'd go (bottom to top) KAT500-KPA500-K3.

For me, the order (bottom to top) would be K3, KAT500, KPA500
because one is much more likely to use the K3 controls than
either of the other two.  Raising the arm extensively for tuning
the band will result in a sore arm/shoulder in short order.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 2022-07-23 7:13 PM, Ian Kahn wrote:

If it were me, I'd go (bottom to top) KAT500-KPA500-K3.

Make sure to allow plenty of room around the stack for ventilation - at
least a couple of inches all around.

73 de,

Ian, NV4C

On Sat, Jul 23, 2022, 5:13 PM Don Putnick  wrote:


Perhaps I wasn't specific enough. I'm looking to stack them directly on top
of each other, not on shelves. Which component goes on the bottom and which
on top?




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Re: [Elecraft] K3S - High SWR on 6 Meters

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> Any advice?
> A spur/oscillation in the KPA3A?
> A relay stuck/not switching?

Are you sure there is no breakdown in your antenna, feedline or
external antenna switch?  Infinite SWR on the external meter would
indicate an issue beyond it.

Are you seeing the problem on any other band?  with any other antenna?

I recently went through a "High SWR" issue with my K3 that turned out
to be a bad coaxial jumper (between rig and switch that allows me to
switch rigs) even though the jumper does not test bad with an ohm meter
(no shorts, opens or intermittents as either connector is flexed or
twisted).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-06-13 4:07 PM, N4ST wrote:

So, received a new KLPA3A & KPA3A from Elecraft in exchange for my old ones
plus $$.
Installed the new KLPA3A & KPA3A and passed LP and HP TX Calibration.
My 6M beam measures 1.06 SWR on analyzer.
CW Key down, 100W, I get 1.2 on external SWR meter and 1 bar on K3S SWR
meter.
With FT8 I'm OK for 1 or 2 transmits and then I get infinity on external SWR
meter and full scale on K3S SWR meter, but full power out.
If I switch to a dummy load, I get zero power out (fold back?)
If I operate FT8 at 8 watts with the beam, I get 1.2 on external SWR meter
and 1 bar on K3S SWR meter and 8 watts out.
Going back to CW full power seems to perform a reset.  Everything still fine
in CW, but now FT8 is OK for 1 or 2 transmits and then high SWR returns.

Any advice?
A spur/oscillation in the KPA3A?
A relay stuck/not switching?

My TenTec Eagle is carrying the load for me during these 6M openings.
(46 states worked in last few weeks)


___
73,
Jim - N4ST




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Re: [Elecraft] Icom SM-2 Microphone and K3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

From the schematic there should not be an issue unless the K3/K3s
mic bias can't provide enough current for the preamp board.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-06-09 12:03 AM, Dave (NK7Z) wrote:

Hi,

Has anyone here wired an Icom SM-2 to a K3 and had luck with this?  Any 
surprises in this?

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Re: [Elecraft] CW, Here I come!

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I hear a tone when I operate the straight key but the volume is low 

> and I can’t change the tone.

Level is controlled by the MON in CW (hold CMP/PWR).  Frequency is
controlled by "Pitch" (Hold SPOT).

> How about some sequential help on this?

All in the Owner's Manual.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-31 8:59 PM, Richard wrote:

For code practice, I tried plugging a straight key into the “KEY” jack on the 
back of my K3s. I hear a tone when I operate the straight key but the volume is 
low and I can’t change the tone.

How about some sequential help on this?

Richard
W4KBX



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Re: [Elecraft] Have a K-2 SN 01049

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Don,

You are conflating two different rigs.  01949 is the QRP rig mentioned
by W6YCA who has no idea of what is installed, etc.  Tim does not know
the serial number of the K2/100 with SSB, DXP and KAT100 owned by his
friend (that has only receive "lowball" offers).  It is the K2/100 that
you supposedly built and have worked on a couple of times.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-31 7:22 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:

Tim,

Most importantly, ask him if I upgraded it with the A to B upgrades.
SN 01949 is pretty old.
If can give me his name and callsign, I can search through my records

73,
Don W3FPR

On 5/31/2022 6:08 PM, Tim Tucker wrote:
Thanks Don.  He says that you're the one that built it for him and has 
been

back to you a couple of times (for what, I'm not sure). I'll ask him for
the serial number; it's the K2/100 with DSP and SSB, as well as the 
KAT100

to go with it.

Tim

On Tue, May 31, 2022 at 2:46 PM Don Wilhelm  wrote:


Tim,

There are several variations of a K2, so the fair price depends on the
state of the upgrades (as well as the options installed).  If it is
above SN3000 and if the KPA100 has been upgraded, it should bring a fair
price.
He should state which upgrades and options have been installed.
If it is below SN3000, and has not been upgraded, it will have a low
price, but if above 3000 with all upgrades he should get a good price.
There is a good list of upgrades in the K2AtoB instructions for the base
K2 (except for the upgraded IF Crystals).

I have a K2 SN 00020 that has been FULLY upgraded, and it performs just
like a new one.
Serial numbers above 6400 have all updates included already, but the one
Chris asked about is SN 1049 and may need a lot of options.  When I was
working on the K2 a full set of options was price at about $500 and
likely is higher now.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 5/31/2022 5:14 PM, Tim Tucker wrote:

Once you figure it out and if you do sell, please let us know what you

get

for it. A local here has a loaded K2/100 that he's been trying to sell

for

a while but has only received what he perceives as low offers.  I'm
interested to find out where the market for these is at.

Tim
AE6LX

On Tue, May 31, 2022 at 1:55 PM George Paul Linehan III via Elecraft <
elecraft@mailman.qth.net> wrote:


Considering selling but need to figure out what is installed, as I

haven’t

used the rig much after purchase. Elecraft is missing a block of

records.
They suggest opening up & taking pics. Any others thoughts 
appreciated.

It’s the QRP version with a tuner. Thanks. Paul WA6YCA
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Re: [Elecraft] The Dreaded 400 Hz hump

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-05-20 8:36 PM, jerry wrote:
> I remember reading a magazine article many years ago...

QST, Dec 1977, Nov and Dec 1978 also the ARRL Handbook, 57th
Edition (1980).

They showed a hole of frequencies in the normal human voice audio 
spectrum where there is not much energy.  It was proposed to create

a new modulation where the higher frequencies would be shifted down
into the hole - thus letting the SSB signal take up less spectrum -
and then shifting those audio frequencies back up at the receive
end.


I think it was called NBVM (narrow band voice modulation).  Used
a hard lowpass filter around 600 Hz to preserve the low audio,
a bandpass filter to "select" 1500-2500 Hz, a balanced modullator
with a 3100 Hz "carrier" and pandpass filter to select the lower
sideband.  This resulted in the 1500 - 2500 Hz audio being inverted
into 600 Hz - 1600 Hz and the total transmitted voice bandwith of
just 1400 Hz (200-1600 Hz).


73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-20 8:36 PM, jerry wrote:
I remember reading a magazine article many years ago... They showed a 
hole of frequencies in the normal human voice audio
spectrum where there is not much energy.  It was proposed to create a 
new modulation where the higher frequencies would be
shifted down into the hole - thus letting the SSB signal take up less 
spectrum - and then shifting those audio frequencies

back up at the receive end.

   Thinking about it...that's the sort of thing I would have expected to 
read in Ham Radio magazine.  I miss it.


     - Jerry KF6VB


On 2022-05-20 17:10, Walter Underwood wrote:

About seven years ago, there was an extended discussion on this list
about equalization settings for transmit. I collected all the settings
people used and posted about the majority contour.

https://observer.wunderwood.org/2015/09/09/transmit-audio-and-compression-with-the-elecraft-kx3/ 



wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog)


On May 20, 2022, at 6:07 PM, Bob McGraw  wrote:

Oh yes it is there on many SSB signals where the OP is a male. That 
is where most of the fundamental male voice energy occurs. Those 
signals which look uniform across the SSB TX bandpass do sound good.


I attribute this to the fact most hams will "boost this and boost 
that" and never give thoughts to attenuating.  In fact the 
characteristics of the EQ in the boost mode are noticeable different 
than the attenuate mode.  Yes, one can hear the difference.


In my world of pro audio, it is a practice to attenuate first and 
then boost if absolutely necessary.   Hams just can't get over the 
fact they must always have more...boost boost boost.


So if ones signal is muddy or bassy, what's to do?   Attenuate the 
low end first, and rarely if ever,  boost the high end.  Of course 
boosting the high end will make it brighter, but not attenuating the 
low end will consume lots of unnecessary transmitter power not being 
used for effective communications. 50Hz - 16dB, 100Hz -16dB, 200Hz - 
16dB, 400Hz - 9dB, 800Hz - 0dB, 1.6kHz - 0dB, 2.4kHz +0dB, 2.4kHz 
+3dB, 3.2kHz + 6 dB.


Works for me.

73

Bob, K4TAX

On 5/20/2022 4:30 PM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote:

Message: 8
Date: Thu, 19 May 2022 02:14:10 + (UTC)
From: Al Lorona
To: Elecraft Reflector
Subject: [Elecraft] [OT] The dreaded 400 Hz hump
Message-ID:<1840135010.161126.1652926450...@mail.yahoo.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8

Have you studied how SSB signals look on your panadapter? I believe 
about 90% of all phone signals have a very pronounced peak at about 
400 or 500 Hz. This peak is sometimes 10 dB (or more) higher than 
the rest of the bandwidth. This is wasted power and, to my ear, 
makes signals sound muddier.


On the other hand, every once in a while you'll see a signal that 
has a more or less flat frequency response, without any huge peaks. 
Sometimes, a signal will actually have slightly*more*  power in the 
higher frequencies, say, 2000 Hz and higher. I've noticed that these 
signals have much more articulation and punch. But these signals are 
all too scarce.


It's pretty well known that the aging population of hams 
collectively suffers from a high frequency hearing loss. It seems to 
me that this is even more reason to carefully shape your frequency 
response and cut the dreaded 400 Hz hump.


R,

Al? W6LX/4


--
IF ONE EXPECTS COMPUTERS AND TECHNOLOGY TO SOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS,
ONE DOESN'T UNDERSTAND COMPUTERS AND TECHNOLOGY
AND ONE DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THEIR PROBLEMS."



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Re: [Elecraft] Kenwood MC-60 Mic with a K3?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-05-17 1:19 PM, Eric Fitzgerald wrote:
>
> Can you use a Kenwood MC-60 desktop mic with an Elecraft K3?

If you have an MC-60 (not MC-60A), you can use it "as is".  The
only difference is that Elecraft and Kenwood reverse pins 5 and 6.
Pin 5 is +8V for Kenwood, Pin 6 is +5V for Elecraft.

If you have the "non 'A'" version of the MC-50 or MC-60, pins 5
and 6 are not used.  If you have the "A" versions pin 5 is used
to power the preamp in the base of the mic.  If you have the "A"
versions you will need to do one of the following:
 A) swap pins 5/6 in the Foster plug on one end of the coiled cord
 B) move the wire from pin 5 to pin 6 on the 8 pin jack where the
coiled cord (PG-4C) connects on the base of the mic
 C) leave the preamplifier (mic amp) switch in the "out" position.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-17 1:19 PM, Eric Fitzgerald wrote:

Hello Wise and Powerful Reflector;

Can you use a Kenwood MC-60 desktop mic with an Elecraft K3?  I seem to 
recall the front panel jack is the same pin configuration as a Kenwood.


TIA

Eric KG6MZS

www.kg6mzs.com



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Re: [Elecraft] Kenwood MC-60 Mic with a K3?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-05-17 1:42 PM, Derek Brown wrote:
> I did with mine. No mod needed. I did do menu, FPHbias.

*DO NOT* use bias with an MC-50/MC-60.  The microphone is
dynamic (moving coil) and DC on the coil can *DAMAGE* the
element (true for *any* dynamic mic).

FP.H is the correct setting *without* "bias" - tap 2 to
toggle bias.  If the gain is too low (it should not be)
enable the second preamp (FP.H-) by tapping "7".  "1"
will toggle between PF.H and FP.L.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-17 1:42 PM, Derek Brown wrote:

I did with mine. No mod needed. I did do menu, FPHbias. High bias instead of 
low, press #1 while on that setting and it will switch between the two.

Derek / K0ATV

Get Outlook for Android

From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net  on behalf 
of Eric Fitzgerald 
Sent: Tuesday, May 17, 2022 11:19:19 AM
To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Subject: [Elecraft] Kenwood MC-60 Mic with a K3?

Hello Wise and Powerful Reflector;

Can you use a Kenwood MC-60 desktop mic with an Elecraft K3?  I seem to
recall the front panel jack is the same pin configuration as a Kenwood.

TIA

Eric KG6MZS

www.kg6mzs.com



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Re: [Elecraft] Antenna Quandary

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-05-11 8:02 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
> On 5/11/2022 1:56 PM, Richard wrote:
>> Anybody out there super-well versed in the behavior of the half-wave
>> dipole?
>
> You do have a copy of the ARRL Handbook, don't you? Every ham should
> have one, and there's a lot of tutorial material in it.

Two books no amateur's library should be without: the ARRL Handbook
and the ARRL Antenna Manual.  The Antenna Manual is the far better
reference for questions about a half-wave dipole.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-11 8:02 PM, Jim Brown wrote:

On 5/11/2022 1:56 PM, Richard wrote:
Anybody out there super-well versed in the behavior of the half-wave 
dipole?


You do have a copy of the ARRL Handbook, don't you? Every ham should 
have one, and there's a lot of tutorial material in it. I'd bet that 
every single one of those engineers who got us to the moon learned 
electronics and radio from The Handbook.


That said, what's your question? OF COURSE there are LOTS of folks here 
who know a LOT about half wave dipoles. I have six of them in the air 
for different bands and directions.


73, Jim K9YC



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Preamp

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

That's not a function of the synth boards.  It's a function of
the KXV3B.  KXV3 had no preamp, KXV3A added support for the
internal transverter and KXV3B integrated the second preamp
for 18 MHz and up.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-07 5:40 PM, Mike Fatchett W0MU wrote:
I thought there were two settings for the preamp  Like a 1 and 2? I have 
the new synth boards.


W0MU



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Re: [Elecraft] KAT 500 and the Yaesu FTDX10

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

To which connector did your KAT500/FTdx1200 tuner cable attach?

The Tuner jacks are the same on both FTdx1200 and FTdx10 as are
the "Linear" jacks.


73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-05-05 3:17 PM, Greg Chartrand via Elecraft wrote:

I just purchased a ftdx10 and wondered if the band data cable is the same as 
the one I had with my old ftdx1200.
Thanks,W7MY-Greg ChartrandRichland, WA.



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Re: [Elecraft] Rig control error with K3S and WSJT-X on 30 meters

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Band specific problems are nearly always the result of common mode RFI
(RF on the feedline/rig/CAT cable). Start by testing into a dummy load
or with QRP (<5W) output.  After that, use the normal common mode
elimination measures, quality chokes at the antenna feedpoint(s),
bonding all of the equipment together, ferrites on the CAT/USB cable.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-04-19 1:20 AM, Frank O'Donnell wrote:
Over a period of time I've noticed an occasional error when transmitting 
FT8 on 30 meters with my K3S using WSJT-X. A couple of seconds into a 
transmit cycle, WSJT-X will display a "Rig control error" box, and I 
start hearing the rig's modulated audio output on its own speaker. This 
only happens on 30 meters, and not 100% of the time. Over the past day, 
I've done FT8 QSOs normally on various bands, but when I tried 30 meters 
tonight I experienced the above error several times in a row. It's 
occurred over time using various versions of WSJT-X. The computer is a 
Mac running Catalina.


I tried going into WSJT-X preferences and changing Radio > Split 
Operation from "Rig" to "Fake It," but the error persisted.


I can try changing around various parts of the setup (using a Windows 
PC, for example), but first was curious if anyone has seen a 
band-specific error like this.


Thanks,

Frank K6FOD




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Re: [Elecraft] Shipping via UPS - A Lesson Learned the Hard Way

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-04-11 6:29 PM, eda...@aya.yale.edu wrote:
>

The UPS Store does not charge real UPS rates.  They have UPS in their
name. They use a logo indistinguishable from the UPS logo. Their
counter clerks wear UPS Brown.  There was a standar UPS truck parked
in front of the shop. There was NOTHING visible to me in the store
that indicated it wasn't a UPS shop.


For those reasons as well as that neither FedEx nor UPS will make
a pick-up at a residential address (only if an established commercial
customer issues a pick-up ticket), I have used good old US Postal
Service for all of my shipping for the past 15 years plus.

USPS on-line rates ("click-n-ship") were regularly better than those
from either UPS or FedEX (corporate on-line), the USPS carrier will
pick up packages (if scheduled on-line the day before) and the nearest
Post Office is closer than either "The UPS Store" or "FedEx Office".

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-04-11 6:29 PM, eda...@aya.yale.edu wrote:

I just shipped some of my Elecraft gear to someone who had purchased it from
me.  The agreement was that I would ship it and they would bear the shipping
expense.  The buyer was OK with my using UPS.

  


So I packed it up and took it to "The UPS Store."  There are about 30 of
them in the Denver metro area and about a dozen in the city itself.  Before
taking the package there I looked at UPS on-line to see what insurance would
cost.  The UPS site said $1.05 per hundred dollars in excess of the $100
included in the shipping rate.  When I arrived at the UPS Store they charged
me $4.50 per $100.  That difference times the value of what I was shipping
came to well over $100.  When I questioned it (more accurately, when I
complained about it) they told me that UPS and The UPS Store are different
entities.  The latter, they said, is a network of franchises independent of
the real UPS that "works with" UPS for retail shipping and receiving.  So
what I had seen on the UPS website was what UPS charges, not the grossly
inflated premium The UPS Store charges.  OK, I asked, how can I ship this
via UPS itself?  The answer was a 90 minute round-trip drive to the nearest
real UPS terminal.

  


The UPS Store does not charge real UPS rates.  They have UPS in their name.
They use a logo indistinguishable from the UPS logo.  Their counter clerks
wear UPS Brown.  There was a standar UPS truck parked in front of the shop.
There was NOTHING visible to me in the store that indicated it wasn't a UPS
shop.  Maybe everyone on this reflector already knows about this.  Until
this morning I didn't.

  


There's an old maxim that a happy customer tells one other person about
their experience.  An unhappy customer tells ten other people.

  


Ted, KN1CBR




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Re: [Elecraft] K3 and Kenwood MC-50 mike

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2022-04-11 10:55 AM, David Woolley wrote:

RF PAs are also, typically, much lower impedance than their design load.




Except they *DO HAVE* impedance matching - typically a broadband output
transformer (4:1, 9:1, 16:1) to 'get close' followed by some kind of
"antenna tuner" (automatic or manual), i.e. matching network to match
the working load.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 and Kenwood MC-50 mike

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I do have the K3 set for high impedance for the MC-50 (tap 1 in the
mic selection menu) and then I switch to low impedance for the
CM-500.


In MENU:MIC SEL, tapping 1 toggles between high gain (dynamic mic) and
low gain (electret mic) input levels.


I tried low impedance with the MC-50 (yes I positioned the cable on
the back of the mic correctly) and have settled on high impedance as
it seemed to drive the K3 better when it is also set for high
impedance.


The high impedance setting of the MC-50 will have more output but
the impedance mismatch may result is some frequency response issues.
However, any frequency response problems may be addressed with the
K3 TX EQ.


I've found the MC-50 to be one of the best microphones ever made for
modern radios.


The MC50/MC50A/MC60A are a decent quality dynamic mic and a good
match for the Elecraft transceivers.  With the MC50A/MC60A one can
(should) turn off the preamp in the base unless the 8 pin output
jack is modified to move the +8V input from pin 5 to pin 6.


73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-04-09 7:37 AM, Nate Bargmann wrote:

* On 2022 08 Apr 16:59 -0500, David Christ wrote:

Digging around I find I have an older Kenwood MC-50 mike in its
original box. Anyone have experience with this?

Is it reasonable to use this with my K3.  It is dynamic so no bias.  I
think the 600 ohm setting is what I am supposed to use.  Do I need to
change my equalization from what I use with my condenser mikes.

Also I need to find a 4 pin jack to make an adaptor.  I don't see
anyone listing such a thing for sale. I will probably plug it into the
back if I use it.
  
Hi David.


I have an MC-50 connected via a four pin to eight pin adapter I probably
picked up off ebay.  The idea at the time was swapping the mic between
the K3 and the TS-520SE I have.  I also have a
CM-500 headset connected to the back panel which needs bias.  The mic
menu makes switching then rather easy.

I do have different mic gain and compression settings between the two
stored in the K3 utility.

I do have the K3 set for high impedance for the MC-50 (tap 1 in the mic
selection menu) and then I switch to low impedance for the CM-500.  I
tried low impedance with the MC-50 (yes I positioned the cable on the back
of the mic correctly) and have settled on high impedance as it seemed to
drive the K3 better when it is also set for high impedance.

I've gotten unsolicited good audio reports on both microphones.  It's a
setup that works for me.


Or should I just try to sell it at the next hamfest?


The choice is yours.  I've found the MC-50 to be one of the best
microphones ever made for modern radios.

73, Nate, N0NB


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Re: [Elecraft] RPN Calc App For Android

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I still have an HP15C on my desk that I picked up when I was working
at the Ohio State University and taking EE/Computer Science from '79-
'84.  It replaced an earlier model (probably an HP-25) in which both
the battery and LED module failed.   The 15C is still ticking right
along with new batteries every 5-10 years .

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-01-30 7:57 AM, Chuck Guenther wrote:

Interesting discussion of the RPN calculators!

I've been a user of RPN calculators for fifty years now. I started my EE 
career in 1966 still using slide rules.
My first calculator was the HP-25C, then went to the HP-67 and several 
others after that. My favorite is the HP-28S, which is marvelous for 
complex number manipulations.


Was glad to get the info on calculator Apps for the iPhone.

73,
Chuck NI0C


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Re: [Elecraft] K3s USB sound card not receiving MMTTY audio

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> I feel stupid for overlooking this setting, but honestly I don't
> remember doing it in the past when setting up for other RTTY contests,
> or switching back to MIC afterward. I need to check MMTTY and N1MM to
> see if either sends any commands to the K3 to do this automatically.

Use *AFSK_A* data submode for RTTY.  Then you can select MENU:MIC SEL =
Line In for RTTY and leave MENU:MIC SEL= on one of the mic settings
for USB/LSB/AM/FM.  The input will be selected automatically based
on mode.

N1MM will send commands to switch audio input *IN PHONE* (mic or
Sound card DVK) if you indicate that the sound card is internal to
the transceiver.  It does not send commands when switching between
voice and data (the K3 handles that if you have it set up properly).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2022-01-09 10:42 PM, Mike Dodd wrote:

Aargh! Aargh! Aargh! (Sound of head banging on desk.)

The problem was that I did not have the K3s set to use the line input! 
I.e., MAIN:MIC SEL menu entry was not set to LINE IN.


I feel stupid for overlooking this setting, but honestly I don't 
remember doing it in the past when setting up for other RTTY contests, 
or switching back to MIC afterward. I need to check MMTTY and N1MM to 
see if either sends any commands to the K3 to do this automatically.


To make matters worse, I have a text document that shows connections and 
settings for the K3, but it didn't mention the MIC SEL menu entry; it 
only said to set the MIC (line) level. I completely missed the implied 
line input selection. You can bet that is now fixed!


So, problem solved. THANK YOU to everyone who offered suggestions here 
and via private email. I hope I can avoid this embarrassing situation in 
the future.



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Re: [Elecraft] Simulated stereo

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-12-25 6:46 PM, Douglas Hagerman via Elecraft wrote:

Some of the various Heil headphones, including the one on the 
Elecraft site, have a switch that passively selects between mono and

simulated stereo by changing the phase between the two sides.


Any *Stereo* headphones can accomplish the same thing by simply adding
a DPDT switch wired to reverse the connections (invert polarity) to
one of the two ears.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-12-25 6:46 PM, Douglas Hagerman via Elecraft wrote:


The K3 (and I think the KX3 and K4) has a simulated stereo function
which allows you delay the audio to one channel slightly, which makes
signals seem to stand out from the noise. I believe that the radios
newer than the K3 also have the ability to create stereo separation by
pitch, which helps in picking out CW signals in QRM.

My question is: is there some kind of device that you can get that will
take the monaural audio from a non-Elecraft radio or a K2 and produce
similar effects?
--
73,
Victor, 4X6GP
Rehovot, Israel
CWops #5
Formerly K2VCO
https://www.qsl.net/k2vco/


Some of the various Heil headphones, including the one on the Elecraft site, 
have a switch that passively selects between mono and simulated stereo by 
changing the phase between the two sides. It basically seems to widen the 
perceived space of the sound source, possibly helpful.

Doug, W0UHU.



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 AND FT8 USING CAT CONTROL NO TX RF

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

How is audio connected from your computer to the K3?  Are you connected
to the mic jack or the "Line In" jack?

What mode are you using USB or DATA_A (preferred)?

What are your MENU:MIC SEL and MENU:MIC+LINE  settings?

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-12-23 5:40 PM, greg best wrote:

i have hit the wall with my knowledge of FT8.  I have my K3 configured with
a stationmaster that feeds the CAT control to/from the computer.  I can
test the CAT using the WSJT SW and it is GREEN. I can receive and decode
but TX output is not working and cannot figure out why.
The K3 goes into xmit mode when Tune is selected on the WSJT SW program.  I
can hear sidetone but there is no RF output. I can select TX enable and the
K3 goes into TX mode but again there is NO RF output nor does the bargraph
on the program indicate any TX audio.  It acts like there is no audio
getting from the computer to the rig but I have no clue why.  Audio
connections have been checked from two different computers, (MacPro amd
Optiplex 780 runnin Win 10), and both setups give the same result. Audio
cables from each computer have been verified to be good.  So I think it has
to do with the radio setup but i thinik it is correct. I am using TX Data
mode, and split shows up.  (BTW-that is what WSJT SW also says.) What am I
missing?



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Re: [Elecraft] Fwd: Need a logger recommendation

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Can anyone recommend a good logger that includes some kind of alert
via text or email when a spot appears for one I need?

DXLab Suite (DXKeeper, SpotCollector, etc.) by AA6YQ
  

SpotCollector also includes the ability to generate text/e-mail alerts.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-12-22 4:30 PM, Brian F. Wruble wrote:

-- Forwarded message -
From: Brian F. Wruble 
Date: Wed, Dec 22, 2021 at 4:20 PM
Subject: Need a logger recommendation
To: DX List , DX Reflector 


I have been using CommCAT (by Howard, W6HN) for at least  15 years.  I have
been a beta tester.  It has one feature that really set it apart.  Every
time a DX spot  appeared that I needed for a new bend, mode, both, grid,
etc., CommCAT could send a text message or an email to my iPhone.  W6HN has
stopped supporting the program, and the text alert function is gone.

Can anyone recommend a good logger that includes some kind of alert via
text or email when a spot appears for one I need?

Thanks.  Happy New Year to all.

73,

Brian, W3BW

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Frequency Calibration

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I use WSJTX but not in its CAL mode.  Simply set the VFO for x.000 on
the highest frequency you can reliably hear WWV (10, 15, 20 or 25 MHz)
and "dial in" the audio tone (SSB or DATA A) to the proper 500/600 Hz
frequency using REF CAL.

I've stopped using the "toggle between USB/LSB or CW/CW_R" and match
the tone as it's far easier to set the trace on the waterfall -
particularly if one sets "bins per pixel" to 1.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-12-19 12:04 AM, David Hachadorian wrote:
After exchanging emails with N4ZR, who started this thread, we think 
this is the easiest procedure:


Tune the rig to 10.000 MHz in CW mode.  Listen to the tone of the WWV 
carrier, which should be close to your CW PITCH setting.
Switch back and forth between reverse cw and normal cw, adjusting REF 
CAL until the tones are equal in pitch on normal and reverse.


This procedure should get you calibrated well within 1 Hz, much better 
than required for any amateur radio application that I can think of.


Dave Hachadorian, K6LL
Yuma, AZ


On 12/18/2021 2:39 PM, Bob McGraw wrote:
The method I use seems to work great and be easy enough to do. No zero 
beating required and no external measurements required.


Put the radio in CW mode, tune to a WWV frequency and press and 
release SPOT.  The radio will automatically zero to the carrier with a 
tone that matches your preferred CW note.  Then via the CONFIG MENU go 
to REF CAL and adjust up or down with the VFO A knob,  the number of 
Hz error the previous SPOT routine disclosed.   A 10 Hz change on the 
REF CAL will equate to about 2 Hz at 10 MHz.    I find that checking 
several different WWV frequencies is even better using this method. To 
make sure it is optimum, tune to 5 or 10 Hz above and below each of 
the WWV frequencies.  Press SPOT from both above and below and see how 
it resolves.   Usually I can get within 2 Hz or better on all of 
them.  You may need to do this several times.  Be sure the radio has 
been on for at least 1/2 hour to allow things to stabilize.


73

Bob, K4TAX



Message: 4
Date: Thu, 16 Dec 2021 18:46:59 -0500
From: Don Wilhelm
To: Pete Smith N4ZR, Elecraft List

Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Frequency Calibration
Message-ID:<81d4d693-6cd1-f11b-30b7-d4523ce74...@w3fpr.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed

Pete,

When using WWV to set the K3 reference, make certain you are listening
to the carrier.? WWV is an AM signal that is modulated by a 500 or 600
Hz tone on alternate minutes (440 Hz 2 minutes after the hour).? That
produces tones that are both above and below the carrier.
So be certain you are hearing the carrier and not one of the modulating
tones.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 12/16/2021 4:34 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:

I've been wondering for some time if my 10-year-old K3's frequency
calibration was off, because it seemed like most spots of me were well
off when I clicked on them, usually in one direction.? Not having a
frequency counter, I went to the alternative method outlined in page
49 of the manual.? I thought I did it all "by the book", but found
that when I was done 15-MHz WWV's carrier frequency (determined by
zero-beating the carrier) was almost 400 Hz low. Since I wasn't
looking for FMT-level accuracy, I went back to WWV and adjusted the
REF CAL setting by ear until 15.000 on my RX dial was as close to
zero-beat with WWV as I could tell. We'll see how it worked out, but I
wonder if I simply have some fundamental misunderstanding of what's
involved.? Wouldn't be the first time...



--

Message: 5
Date: Thu, 16 Dec 2021 17:01:50 -0700
From: David Hachadorian
To: Pete Smith N4ZR, Reflector Elecraft

Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Frequency Calibration
Message-ID:<6453871f-7e7d-fa93-8a79-7b1efd5e4...@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed

You had it fixed, but then you broke it again. After doing the
alternative method on page 49, when you tune in to 10. MHz in CW
mode, you should hear a CW note at the same frequency as your PITCH
selection.? I presume that is 400 Hz.

I got an extremely good score on last year's Frequency Measuring Test
using only that alternative calibration method.

73

Dave Hachadorian, K6LL
Yuma, AZ



--

Message: 6
Date: Thu, 16 Dec 2021 23:04:36 -0800
From: Ray
To: Wes, "elecraft@mailman.qth.net"

Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Frequency Calibration
Message-ID:<61bc3686.1c69fb81.f8fd0.8...@mx.google.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"

Gents
Go to a WWV signal, (5.00)  on a Good Strong Frequency.
Place the Mode To Upper SSB, Listen to the Beat note Tone Freq,
Now Move the Mode to Lower SSB. Adjust the  Ref. Cal. Osc. until the 
Beat Note is the Exact Same Freq

On Lower SSB and Upper SSB.   Done
Ray WA6VAB  K3

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Re: [Elecraft] ID a small board

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

In a small zip bag was board with a 4 pin connector on each end. On
the back it is printed "Remove to instal KPA3".

Probably a "KPA Jumper Block" ... it is installed for low power
operation if the KPA3 is removed.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-12-05 4:36 PM, Neil Foster wrote:

Recently I purchased a KPOD from a local SK's estate. In a small zip bag
was board with a 4 pin connector on each end. On the back it is printed
"Remove to instal KPA3". In searching the parts list it says the KPA3 is a
12V Sense Mod 1N4148. On the front next to the connectors are marked J67a
and J67B and the component is marked C241.
I am trying to figure out what this module is and how it was used. It came
with the KPod but I am not sure it has any bearing. My radio is a K3s
Many thanksNeil   N4FN



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Re: [Elecraft] Rx-In/Out used for exteranl SDR Device

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

This only works 1) if the SDR impedance is consistently high from
100 KHz to 54 MHz and 2) the SDR has excess gain to compensate for
the loading from the K3 receiver.

However without a splitter, there is no protection for the K3 receiver
against spurious signals generated by the SDR!

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-12-05 1:35 PM, Bob McGraw wrote:
I use a pair of BNC to BNC cables, about 4" long, from the RX OUT and RX 
IN to a "T" connector.  The 3rd port of the "T" goes to the SDR.  I find 
that the SDR input impedance, is nowhere close to 50 ohms,  is high 
enough that it doesn't load the signal on the main RX.   Again, no 
splitter required.   No loss encountered.


Yes, one does have to select RX ANT on the front panel for this to be 
active.


73

Bob, K4TAX


On 12/5/2021 11:36 AM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote:

Message: 22
Date: Sun, 5 Dec 2021 17:35:46 +
From: Dave
To:elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Rx-In/Out used for exteranl SDR Device?
Message-ID:

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


I see about a 3 S-unit drop in signal
level when routing through the splitter

Pete (N4ZR), what do you see with a straight cable linking in/out?

I have no idea about Minicircuits splitters, but my home made one had a
measured 3.1 dB loss at 29.7 MHz.

73 Dave G4AON



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Re: [Elecraft] Rx-In/Out used for exteranl SDR Device?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-12-05 12:35 PM, Dave wrote:


I have no idea about Minicircuits splitters, but my home made one had
a measured 3.1 dB loss at 29.7 MHz.


Only 0.1 dB is "loss" - an unamplified two way splitter will show at 3 dB
reduction in signal level from input to either of the output ports just
due to the split.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-12-05 12:35 PM, Dave wrote:

I see about a 3 S-unit drop in signal
level when routing through the splitter


Pete (N4ZR), what do you see with a straight cable linking in/out?

I have no idea about Minicircuits splitters, but my home made one had a
measured 3.1 dB loss at 29.7 MHz.

73 Dave G4AON


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Re: [Elecraft] what soundcard for K3 and Mac

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

What I haven’t quite figured out is how important is this really is
to weak signal digital decoding.


Low noise in a sound card is important to weak signal decoding in two
ways:

1) you want the inherent noise floor in the sound card to be 10 to 15
   dB *LESS* than the minimum - receiver noise + "antenna" - noise.  On
   VHF with a very quiet receiver the receiver noise can be quite low.

2) high noise level in a sound card directly subtracts from the dynamic
   range (ADC clipping - noise floor).  With a high noise floor, strong
   signals either overflow the ADC or the receiver AGC must reduce gain
   with moves the weak signals below the (higher) noise floor.

After testing, I settled on a Sound BlasterX G5 model SB1700 which 

> tested at about -120dB noise level.

-128 dB relative to what?  A quality 16 bit sound card has a theoretical
dynamic range of 97dB - a quality 16 bit card (low noise) will produce
about 90 dB dynamic range in practice.  A 24 bit sound card has 144 dB
theoretical dynamic range but a practical 24 bit sound card will produce
maybe 115 dB dynamic range but to take advantage of that dynamic range
the sound card (any audio preamps and the ADC) need to operate with a
supply voltage greater than the typical 3.3 or 5 V USB supply.  A 24 bit
sound card with a 5 V (USB) supply will be lucky to achieve 100 dB
dynamic range.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-10-31 10:41 AM, SteveL wrote:

Dave,
This interest caught my eye awhile back:

http://members.chello.at/oe1mww/sound-card-check/ 


I’ve tested several of the inexpensive (<$10) nameless USB sound card dongles 
using his method and saw a wide variety of noise floors - however significantly 
higher than a name brand USB card.  After testing, I settled on a Sound BlasterX 
G5 model SB1700 which tested at about -120dB noise level.  How does this compare?  
My nameless sound dongles noise level tested -70 to -90dB - a big difference.

What I haven’t quite figured out is how important is this really is to weak 
signal digital decoding.

Steve
aa8af


On Oct 30, 2021, at 10:49 PM, David Christ  wrote:

Yes this has been bead to death previously. Jim Brown made a number of 
suggestions in a paper from 2014.  However the market has changed.  Those 
models are all discontinued and those manufacturers' follow ons are much more 
expensive and have features that are not needed for sound card modes.  Any 
offerings of these older models seem to be coming from overseas.  The $100 and 
under market seems to be dominated by mystery brand dongles which are a gamble.

So can any one recommend a tried and true sound card interface for use between 
an K3 (without a sound card) and a MacBook Pro (which has no mike or line in 
jack)?  I would like to hear from people who have actually the unit, not just 
speculation.




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Re: [Elecraft] feeding a half-wave dipole with ladder line

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Your 130' dipole will be damn near impossible to feed on 40 meters as
the center is very high impedance.  You would be better served to
hang a parallel dipole (33' per side) under the 65' wires and use
RG213/RG8 for the vertical section.

The additional 33' wires will give you marginally more top loading
and the coax will work just as well for the vertical element since
you are shorting it top and bottom.  While you're at it, push the
feeedpoint up to 50 feet ... more vertical for 160/630m and better
performance for the dipole on 80/40.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-10-28 5:23 PM, Ed Cole wrote:

I am redesigning my 40/80/160/630m antennas.

A year ago the tower I was supporting my 630m Invert-L was damaged by 
wind and taken down.  Replacement tower is shorter so not suitable end 
wire support for HF antenna.


I decided to repurpose my 80/40m dual dipole into a based-loaded 40-foot 
vertical using the 80 & 40m wires for top hat loading on 160/630m.  To 
do that I purpose to run 40-foot of ladder-line vertical and either load 
the bottom using a balun for 80/40m or short the ladder line for the 
loaded vertical.

http://www.kl7uw.com/630mTee.jpg

My question is what balun to use for 80/40m. ladder line is 200-300 ohm 
whereas the dipoles are near 50-ohm.  Should I use a 9:1 balun or would 
my original 1:1 balun work?  Tuners will be in the shack (KXAT at 100w; 
Drake MN-2000 at 1200w).  RG-13 coax to base of ladder-line.


I have a couple vac-relays to short the ladder-line and connect the 
loading coil for 160/630m.


Thanks, Ed - KL7UW



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 / WSJT-X Delayed Transmit

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Update to the latest WSJTX and hamlib.  The problem is due to a timing 
issue in the older versions of hamlib not allowing WSJTX to begin audio

until it receives certain CAT responses from the K3/K3s.   Older
versions of hamlib were doing too many (unnecessary) CAT commands.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-10-11 3:23 PM, James Bennett via Elecraft wrote:

David -

I’ve played with the VOX Gain to no avail - at zero the rig never transmits, 
and at 100 (where it has been sitting) I get the delay. Various settings in 
between have no effect. The Delay controls how quickly the rig goes back into 
receive mode after speaking. But, thanks for the hints!

Jim Bennett / K7TXA
Eagle, ID



On Oct 11, 2021, at 12:00 PM, D Remy  wrote:

I know nothing about operating in the digital modes but wonder if the delays 
might be changed with Vox Gain and Delay settings.

Good luck!
David, NS4V


David R. Hourdequin, PE
Specialty Heavy Timber Engineer
828-421-6216


On Oct 11, 2021, at 13:57, James Bennett via Elecraft 
 wrote:

Hi Folks,

Wondering if someone on the list might be able to solve this one. I’m using a 
K3 and while CW is my main passion, I do dabble in FT8 occasionally. I’ve 
noticed that the radio does not start transmitting right at the start of the 15 
second FT8 cycle. It will start anywhere from 2 - 5 seconds into the cycle. I 
can’t help but think that is not a good thing and could be the cause of an 
occasional missed QSO. I DO make QSOs but this kinda bothers me. The audio 
signals are delayed this amount of time, as is the red TX light coming on - I 
am using VOX . Same thing happens when I press the TUNE button - it takes 
anywhere from 2-5 seconds for the rig to go into transmit mode.

I really doubt it is due to computer overload, as the only applications running 
are WSJT-X, MacLoggerDX (my logging program), and JT-Bridge  - all other 
applications have been ended. Since this happens when I press TUNE, that pretty 
much eliminates JT-Bridge and MacLoggerDX as the cause. Some hardware and 
software specifics:

Mac mini, 32 GB RAM, 3GHz processor, 6 cores, Intel Core i5.
Mac OS Big Sur 11.5
WSJT-X 2.4.0
Audio Interface: Tascam US-125M external USB device
Values in the DT column are consistently about 0.1 - 0.4

Wasn’t sure if I should post this here or on the WSJT-X list, but I thought I’d 
start here. Any ideas?


Jim / K7TXA
Eagle, ID



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Re: [Elecraft] Stumped: K2/100 stopped going into Transmit for digital

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-10-07 9:56 AM, Carter Craigie wrote:

NO red transmit LED on the SignaLink USB, nor any transmitting bars 
show on the K2. No Problems with the receive. And the K2 responds to

commands from the computer, such as changing frequencies and such.


The Signalink is a brain dead external sound card that generates PTT
based on the presence of audio output (built-in VOX).  If you get no
transmit LED, the audio output is not high enough to trigger the
internal VOX circuits.  Check the TX level (and output device) in
your digital software (WSJTX, DigiPan, DM780, etc.).

You will likely find that the audio endpoints have changed due to
an application and/or Windows update.  First step in trouble shooting
is *always* to do a Windows *RESTART* (not shutdown, power off or
reboot - but *RESTART*) in order to force Windows to load all drivers
fresh from disk rather than used cached versions.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-10-07 9:56 AM, Carter Craigie wrote:

Hello fellow Elecrafters,
I am completely stumped!
I have been using my K2/100 along with a SignaLink USB soundcard to do
digital programs, such as PSK31, RTTY, and FT8--all with no problems, for
years.
After downloading and installing the latest version of Ham Radio Deluxe I
now have NO ability to transmit.
I have tried going back and trying Digipan, but no joy there, nor with FT8.
I have no idea what went wrong, and I really don't think my problem has
anything to do with downloading and installing the new version of HRD.
I have taken my control cable (which runs from the K2 to its tuner to its
FTDI USB-232 converter) and have used my Volt-Ohm meter to trace continuity
in all the wiring, and everything ohmed out just as I had built the cable
years ago.
I know that the SignaLink USB has the correct setup, as I have been using
the chip for the K2 which has faithfully worked for me.
I have checked the Com Port (in this case, COM3) and made sure that I have
all the parameters correct.
I have disconnected all three cables going into the SignaLink USB and
reconnected them several times, as well as having done the same on the K2.
Nothing seems worn or improperly used.
BUT:
NO red transmit LED on the SignaLink USB, nor any transmitting bars show on
the K2. No Problems with the receive. And the K2 responds to commands from
the computer, such as changing frequencies and such.
I am completely stumped. Any ideas for me, please?
73,
Carter Craigie, N3AO
Blacksburg, VA
(540)250-8184
carterwc...@gmail.com
Elecraft K2/100 Nr. 678



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Re: [Elecraft] K3s with sub receiver - filter mix and match question

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Groping into my blurred memory, I think the benefit of having similar
bandwidth filters (e.g 400hz, 2.7Khz or 2.1 KHz) in the main and sub
receiver is diversity reception but I’m not sure.

"Matched" filters were required for optimal diversity operation
with the *original* synthesizer.  With the new synthesizer in
the K3S, that requirement has been relaxed.

Does it matter if I installed either of these single filters on the 

> main or sub rx?

No.  For example, I have 13 KHz (FM), 2.8, 1.8, 500 (8 pole) and 200 Hz
in my main with 2.8 and 500 (8 pole) in my sub rx.  Since I have the
new synthesizer, I can use matched filters for Diversity or select a
tighter filter in the main RX and continue to use a wider view in the
right ear (sub rx).  From a DX (split) perspective, I can use a narrow
filter in the main (for the DX) and the wider filter in the Sub RX for
"listening in the pile-up".

If you are one that likes to park the Sub RX on the DX station and
"lock" VFO B, then transmit on VFO A ("split off") and tune around
the pile-up, you may want to put the narrow filters in the Sub RX.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-07-05 3:30 PM, PAUL GACEK via Elecraft wrote:

Simple question: Can I mix and match different filters between the main and sub 
receiver. If yes, what am I giving up?

Groping into my blurred memory, I think the benefit of having similar bandwidth 
filters (e.g 400hz, 2.7Khz or 2.1 KHz) in the main and sub receiver is 
diversity reception but I’m not sure.

In my project to install a KRX3/KSYN3A into a K3s, I have a pair of 2.7Khz 
filters and a pair of 400Hz filters. Separately, I have a variety of single 
filters such as a 250 Hz and 1.8Khz.

Does it matter if I installed either of these single filters on the main or sub 
rx?

Paul Gacek
W6PNG/M0SNA
www.nomadic.blog



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Re: [Elecraft] HOA Crap

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-06-29 6:28 PM, Dennis Moore wrote:
>
> Is the objection to the use of the internet to connect to that remote
> station?

No, the (my) objection is using multiple stations in a short period
of time.  I would not have a problem with a "one station (location)"
per year, six months, or quarter ... but using multiple locations
on opposite coasts, per day/week is simply beyond what any amateur
could physically accomplish with *legitimate* relocations (even an
extensive RV operation).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-06-29 6:28 PM, Dennis Moore wrote:
I mostly agree with this. However, how would that compare to me packing 
up my own station, driving from California to Delaware, setting up on 
the beach so I could work a bunch of EU stations, then packing up and 
going home, claiming those DX on my DXCC?


We all know that we can make a permanent move from one state to another 
and we don't have to start DXCC all over again. There's obviously no 
minimum length of time I have to remain at that new QTH, so it could be 
an hour or 40 years.


Is the objection to the use of the internet to connect to that remote 
station?


Dennis NJ6G

On 6/29/2021 15:00, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:

However,
"shopping" rental stations for the best propagation to work some DX
station is simply immoral.  ARRL should modify DXCC (and contest) rules
to limit the use of "remotely controlled stations" to *one station*,
with all transmitters, receivers and antennas within a 500 foot circle
of which the licensee is the sole owner of the station. 



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Re: [Elecraft] HOA Crap

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-06-29 6:26 PM, Bill Frantz wrote:

> I really don't think the amateur radio community has wrapped its mind
> around the fact that many of us move around the country a lot.

No, they understand that may move a lot.  *HOWEVER* even the most
mobile don't move around the country at the speed of light.  They
don't make one contact from Maine followed by a contact from Washington
State, followed by a contact from Coastal Carolina, follow by a contact
from Southern California depending on the best path to the DX.

Even if someone could afford to build competent stations in each of
those locations, they could not physically be in more than one place
a day (approximately).

"Dialing for DX" is not amateur radio!!!

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-06-29 6:26 PM, Bill Frantz wrote:
OK. I have a DXCC award on my wall. It is from Los Gatos, CW. It's 
showing 185 mixed confirmed in my logbook. I moved to NH in 2019. My NH 
log shows 106 mixed confirmed. (I keep separate logs for NH and CA 
contacts.) It's a bit hard to get the union of the two logs, but the 
results will be higher than 185 due to the ease of EU contacts. (I 
think, if I've done my uploads to Clublog correctly, they have the 
correct count.) My only answer to all the questions about the situation 
is to fall back on the DXCC rules which say that all these contacts count.


I really don't think the amateur radio community has wrapped its mind 
around the fact that many of us move around the country a lot.


73 Bill AE6JV

On 6/29/21 at 5:03 PM, rick.n...@gmail.com (Rick NK7I) wrote:

Jim, I agree, rental hopping for the purposes of DXCC or similar, is 
equally immoral and as such, should be banned from such awards.  Use 
your own, a club or a friends station WHILE physically there if your 
morality reaches that far.  Mine doesn't; I've used other stations and 
entered into THEIR log, not mine (the station is not mine, simple).


---
Bill Frantz    |The nice thing about standards| Periwinkle
(408)348-7900  |is there are so many to choose| 150 Rivermead Rd #235
www.pwpconsult.com |from.   - Andrew Tanenbaum    | Peterborough, NH 03458




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Re: [Elecraft] HOA Crap

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-06-29 5:40 PM, Doug Person wrote:

I own a condo in Loveland, CO just south of Fort Collins. The HOA is
a pain in the butt. My main residence is on the other side of the
Rockies in rural northwestern Colorado where I have acreage, many
wire antennas and a tower with a nice HexBeam on it.

Using a remote station that you own/use exclusively is one thing.  Using
a remote station that rents by the hour - in New England one hour, the
Pacific Northwest a few hours later, perhaps in Hawaii or Puerto Rico
the next day ... that simply is no longer Amateur Radio.  "Rent a Shack"
is about as close to commercial radio as one can come and still pretend
to be amateur.

I'm not talking about a rental condo/home in some Caribbean island for
a week or two holiday with a ham shack for "down time" (or a contest
weekend) ... that is more like using a club station, a friend's shack
or tossing a wire off a hotel balcony on a business trip.  However,
"shopping" rental stations for the best propagation to work some DX
station is simply immoral.  ARRL should modify DXCC (and contest) rules
to limit the use of "remotely controlled stations" to *one station*,
with all transmitters, receivers and antennas within a 500 foot circle
of which the licensee is the sole owner of the station.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-06-29 5:40 PM, Doug Person wrote:
I own a condo in Loveland, CO just south of Fort Collins. The HOA is a 
pain in the butt. My main residence is on the other side of the Rockies 
in rural northwestern Colorado where I have acreage, many wire antennas 
and a tower with a nice HexBeam on it. When I'm in Loveland I operate my 
rural station remotely. It works well and is a lot of fun.  I operate 
10, 6, 2 and 70cm with antennas in the attic of my condo. But getting on 
HF is always going to be remote.


To me hamming is communicating and solving technical challenges and then 
being proud of your accomplishments. Remote hamming is just another 
version and I'm glad I'm able to do it. In the future I may have to give 
up my rural residence, When I do, a neighbor and good friend of mine is 
ready and willing to let me setup a solar-powered  remote station on his 
property. Without that option I would probably be off HF completely.


Remote operating is becoming more and more important for people who 
otherwise have no option for HF.  That's probably why the K4 has such 
excellent facilities for remote operations. Getting on the air and 
making contacts, talking to old friends all over the world, adding a new 
country or even just a state - THAT is ham radio to me.


Doug -- K0DXV

On 6/29/2021 2:35 PM, Bill Frantz wrote:

On 6/28/21 at 12:45 AM, rick.n...@gmail.com (Rick Bates, NK7I) wrote:

Ditto using remote receivers to augment your own; your station can or 
cannot; it's THAT simple.


[With apologies to N4ZR. I'll try to tie my comment to germain topics.]

I generally disagree with NK7I's comments because I think ham radio is 
a huge tent, and the point is having fun.


However, this comment tickled the thought that setting up remote 
receivers could be something hams do regularly. I can imagine a remote 
receiver at one son's house in Colorado, and another at the other 
son's house in California.


These receivers might be useful for activities like the Elecraft net, 
where frequently the QRO stations, which are the backbone of the net, 
can't hear the QRP stations who try to check in. It would be a fun 
project in station building.


73 Bill AE6JV

--- 


Bill Frantz    | Re: Computer reliability, performance, and security:
408-348-7900   | The guy who *is* wearing a parachute is *not* the
www.pwpconsult.com | first to reach the ground.  - Terence Kelly



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Re: [Elecraft] Advice on K3 versus KX3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

The question is:  If I sold off the K3+P3, what would I be missing 

> with keeping just the KX3?

Significantly lower composite noise even with the original synthesizer
in the K3 (in addition to those items referenced by K9YC).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-05-22 4:57 PM, Phil Hystad via Elecraft wrote:

Looking for advice…

I am considering which of my two rigs to keep, the K3+P3 or the 
KX3+PX3+KXPA100.  My K3 is serial number 3799 and it has not been upgraded with 
the new hardware developed for the K3S and I have no interest in upgrading the 
K3.

Sherwood engineering ranks (with its default ordering) the KX3 above the K3 but 
as for me, those subtle differences in performance factors have never been 
meaningful to me so that does not matter.

The question is:  If I sold off the K3+P3, what would I be missing with keeping 
just the KX3?


73, phil, K7PEH

P.S. I almost put the K3 up for sale last year but covid changed my priorities.


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Re: [Elecraft] Band decoder ala KRC2

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

microHAM Station Master:
  https://www.microham.com/contents/en-us/d132_SM.html
  http://microham-usa.com/store/product-info.php?pid12.html

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-05-14 3:36 PM, Jim Cary wrote:

Looking for a band decoder similar to the discontinued KRC2 for my K3 to 
control my antenna switch.  Doesn’t have to have a lot of bells and whistles.  
Would appreciate any suggestions.

Tnx and 73,

Jim
W2SM



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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500-KAT500 tuning settings

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-05-09 1:23 PM, Bob Wilson, N6TV wrote:
In the meantime, N4PY Pegasus Plus software 
 can transform any supported 
transceiver's frequency into Kenwood format for the KAT500 as well,

plus there are Icom/Yaesu/Kenwood translating hardware solutions
available in some microHAM devices such as the MK2R+. 


microHAM MK2R+, microKeyer II, microKEYER III, DigiKeyer II, Station
Master and Station Master Deluxe can provide *ICOM* CI-V output.

In addition, CIV Commander (part of the DXLab Suite) can also provide
either Icom or Kenwood format output for any of its supported
transceivers.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-05-09 1:23 PM, Bob Wilson, N6TV wrote:

On Sun, May 9, 2021 at 9:33 AM Wes  wrote:


This despite the claim: "The KAT500 Automatic Antenna Tuner is designed to
be
closely integrated with the Elecraft K3 transceiver and the Elecraft
KPA500
amplifier although it may be easily used with other transceivers and
amplifiers."

The last part is simply not true, IMHO, of course.



I guess that depends on how you define "easily".   Plug and play cables and
plus some menu configuration seems pretty easy to me, if you have a Kenwood
rig.

IMHO, the KAT500 and KPA500 *is* very easy to use with Kenwood radios, with
VFO A auto-track, once connected property.  It's all well documented
in the KAT500
Owner's Manual

(pages 16 - 18), and Elecraft can supply KPA500/KAT500 interface cables for
a long list of non-Elecraft transceivers, listed here:

https://elecraft.com/products/75-discount-on-a-kpa500-kat500-power-combo

The S-BOX  can provide plug and play interfaces in
more complex environments, when you need even more devices connected to the
Kenwood serial port, such as SteppIR controllers and Bandmaster band
decoders.

Some combinations (Icom, Yaesu) do not provide frequency auto-track with
just cables, though Yaesu support should be easy to add to the KAT500 /
KPA500 firmware since they've already done the code for the KPA1500.  In
the meantime, N4PY Pegasus Plus software
 can transform any supported
transceiver's frequency into Kenwood format for the KAT500 as well, plus
there are Icom/Yaesu/Kenwood translating hardware solutions available in
some microHAM devices such as the MK2R+.

73,
Bob, N6TV
https://bit.ly/S-BOX



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Re: [Elecraft] k3 STEPPIR 6Meters

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

In my design, you can make the changes to a steppir on a tower if you
can reach your passive 6M element.   You don't have to order any
parts to make this work.

The GM3SEK modification can also be made "on the tower" as both the
new elements are less than 4 feet from the mast.  Ian spent considerable
time modelling and working on an element mounting system to provide
stable operation with changing weather.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-05-02 10:42 AM, Michael Walker wrote:

I added the 6M element and wasn't happy with the performance.

I remodelled it and I was able to improve a number of things and posted the
measurements on my QRZ page if you are interested.

Not only did it model better it performed better and loaded better as the
SWR was lower.   A bunch of  my friends tried it and they were pleased with
it as well.

In my design, you can make the changes to a steppir on a tower if you can
reach your passive 6M element.   You don't have to order any parts to make
this work.

This was for the 3EL Steppir.

Mike va3mw


On Sun, May 2, 2021 at 8:42 AM Joe Subich, W4TV  wrote:


On 2021-05-02 3:59 AM, turnbull wrote:> Dear OMs and YLs,I believe if
you check online there is a

modification to mounting the additional parasitic element possibly
even adding yet another which is supposed to greatly improve the
three element SteppIR six meter performance over that of the three
element with the single parasitic element.

That modification is by GM3SEK (about 2015).  I believe is was in one
of the UK publications.  In any case, Doug is correct, the modification
adds both a director and reflector turning the 3 element SteppIR into
a proper four element yagi on a 12.5 foot boom.

73,

 ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-05-02 3:59 AM, turnbull wrote:

Dear OMs and YLs,I believe if you check online there is a modification

to mounting the additional parasitic element possibly even adding yet
another which is supposed to greatly improve the three element SteppIR six
meter performance over that of the three element with the single parasitic
element.As I have a four element SteppIR, this has not been tried
here.Worth investigating.73 Doug EI2CNSent from my Galaxy




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Re: [Elecraft] k3 STEPPIR 6Meters

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-05-02 3:59 AM, turnbull wrote:> Dear OMs and YLs,I believe if 
you check online there is a
modification to mounting the additional parasitic element possibly 
even adding yet another which is supposed to greatly improve the 
three element SteppIR six meter performance over that of the three 
element with the single parasitic element.

That modification is by GM3SEK (about 2015).  I believe is was in one
of the UK publications.  In any case, Doug is correct, the modification
adds both a director and reflector turning the 3 element SteppIR into
a proper four element yagi on a 12.5 foot boom.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-05-02 3:59 AM, turnbull wrote:

Dear OMs and YLs,I believe if you check online there is a modification to 
mounting the additional parasitic element possibly even adding yet another 
which is supposed to greatly improve the three element SteppIR six meter 
performance over that of the three element with the single parasitic element.As 
I have a four element SteppIR, this has not been tried here.Worth 
investigating.73 Doug EI2CNSent from my Galaxy



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Re: [Elecraft] This does not bode well for the chip users of the world

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Welcome to the world of "just in time" inventory meets off shore
production.  Then couple that with a Chinese Communist Party that
makes sure that Chinese companies get their orders filled before
the rest of the world.  Then don't forget that there are not enough
shipping containers to accommodate all the freight demands.

International commerce is reaping the rewards of concentrating
manufacturing in China while stripping the US & Canada (and to a
lesser extent, Europe) of much of their manufacturing base.

It's not just chips but pharmaceuticals, consumer electronics and
even consumer staples.  The trend will only get worse if the current
administration has its way and increases taxes on business and capital
by 50%.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-04-29 5:11 PM, Gary Memory wrote:

It isn't just IC's.  I placed a $250-ish order from Mouser two days ago.
Most of the items are common components, with a BO lead-time into
September.  We live in a different world, at least temporarily if not for a
long haul?

Gary N7BRJ


On Thu, Apr 29, 2021 at 5:01 PM Ken B via Elecraft 
wrote:


  Its affecting everything - Tried to by a bunch of 555 timing chips for
the local troops scouting project - none around, glad we don't need them
till November.

 On Thursday, April 29, 2021, 04:50:57 PM EDT, Wayne Burdick <
n...@elecraft.com> wrote:

  Many off-the-shelf parts are affected as well.

Wayne


elecraft.com


On Apr 29, 2021, at 1:13 PM, Linda M  wrote:


Hi Wayne.
I would think the Parts you use are Off the Shelf Semiconductors.
The Auto Industry are Custom Fab semiconductors.
Ray WA6VAB  K3

From: Wayne Burdick
Sent: Thursday, April 29, 2021 11:40 AM
To: Mark Goldberg
Cc: Elecraft Reflector
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] This does not bode well for the chip users of

the world


Indeed, it's a ubiquitous curse. Fortunately we stocked up far in

advance on most parts and assemblies.


Wayne
N6KR





On Apr 29, 2021, at 10:39 AM, Mark Goldberg 

wrote:


For smaller customers that are not buying millions of parts at a time,

it

is even worse, as they have no leverage. That includes the company I am
working for and I would assume companies like Elecraft. Even for simple
orders from distributors of in stock parts they are taking a week to

ship

rather than the usual next day shipment. It is really disruptive.

Regards,

Mark

On Thu, Apr 29, 2021 at 10:20 AM Dave Cole  wrote:


An interesting story from OPB dealing with the global shortage of

chips...





https://www.opb.org/article/2021/04/29/it-s-not-just-cars-ipads-and-macs-suffer-from-semiconductor-crunch/


--
73, and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL Technical Specialist, RFI
ARRL Asst. Director, NW Division, Technical Resources



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Re: [Elecraft] Speaker upgrade

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Absolutely, I've used a pair with each of my K3(s) for several years.
They replaced larger "bookshelf" speakers with no loss in quality.
The little Pyle do not have the low end of the larger "bookshelf"
speakers, the spectrum below 200 Hz or so is not something that is
missed for "communications" audio.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-04-24 10:14 AM, Buck wrote:
If you don't care for amplified speakers, the Pyle 3" Mini Cubes are 
excellent.  Less than $30 a pair online.


k4ia, Buck
K3s# 11497
Honor Roll  8B DXCC
EasyWayHamBooks.com



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Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Frequency Shift in DATA A - What Am I Doing Wrong?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> What am I doing wrong?

Nothing

Or, is something wrong?

No

> Suggestions appreciated.

You probably have WSJTX Settings -> Radio -> Split Operation
set to "Radio"

With Split Operation WSJTX will shift the transmit frequency +/- 1 KHz
as necessary to keep the audio tone in the 1500-2000 Hz range.  With
a -500 Hz shift, your transmit (TX) is probably between 1000 and
1500 Hz.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-04-23 8:51 AM, krug261--- via Elecraft wrote:

I don't know how long this has been going on (wow, sounds like a song lyric), but 
each time WSJT keys up my KX3, the transmit frequency shifts down 500hz. For 
example, the standard 30m FT8 freq of 10.136 000 shifts down to 10.135 500. The 
freq shift shows on the KX3 vfo B and the WSJT screen. It occurs on all bands, as 
well as if I change mode to FT4. When this occurs the KX3 screen shows: DATA; TX 
is pointing to the B vfo; SPLT is illuminated; and the vfo B freq is 500hz lower 
than vfo A. I have pressed A>B (which changes the vfo B freq back to that of 
the vfo A) and then held the SPLIT button (which has TX now point to vfo A and 
SPLT disappears). But once I key-up it reverts back to the original screen display 
and the lower transmit freq.
I have gone through the manual and cannot figure out what else to clear on the 
KX3. In WSJT: PTT Method is CAT; Mode is Data/Pkt and Split Operation is Rig. 
These settings have not changed.
What am I doing wrong? Or, is something wrong? Suggestions appreciated.
Bob, KA2TQV


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Re: [Elecraft] Mode not Switching with band change?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

The Band buttons in DXLab Suite/Commander's Bandspread window are each a
band stack.  They store the last five frequencies visited on each band.
If the last frequency/mode on 40 meters was USB, that is what will be
recalled.  If the last frequency on 40 meters was CW, that will be
recalled. You can step through the five frequencies by repeated clicks
on the band button.

Note:  the frequency/mode is saved in the band stack *after* the dwell
time has expired.  If your dwell time is 30 seconds but you bounce
around every 5 seconds, the band stack will not be updated

See the Help file for Commander (click the Help button in Commander's
Bandspread window and select "actions in the Bandspread window").

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-03-25 7:03 PM, David F. Reed wrote:
I am running an Elecraft K3 and a KPA1500 amplifier. I use the DXLab 
Suite of programs for logging, rig control and so on.


If I do a manual band change on either the K3 or using the KPA1500 and 
change back and forth between 15m and 40m, the side band changes 
appropriately.


If I do it using the Commander Bandspread window buttons and go from 15 
to 40, it stays in USB.  I can then do a MODE ALT to get the correct 
mode, but it doesn't stick if I go back and forth.


FWIW, going to 80 has the same issue...

I suspect the K3/KPA1500 set are working correctly since the only 
misbehavior is when I do it with Commander.


Has anyone else seen this, fixed it, or have any hints?



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 DATA A problem

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> Audio is being fed from my PC to the K3's line input and I'm certain
> that the radio is in DATA A and the Config for MIC SEL is set to LInE
> In.

It *sounds like* you are still in AFSK A and not DATA A.  By default
AFSK A has a narrow audio filter on the input of the modulator process
(DSP) that restricts modulation to a very narrow range around the
AFSK tones (e.g. 2050-2350 Hz for 2125/2295 tones).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-02-28 12:07 PM, John Simmons wrote:
I worked the RTTY contest yesterday using AFSK with N1MM. All worked 
fine and I shut everything down when I was done. Today I tried to 
operate FT8 but I can not get any power output.


Audio is being fed from my PC to the K3's line input and I'm certain 
that the radio is in DATA A and the Config for MIC SEL is set to LInE 
In. When I hit the TUNE button in WSJT-X, the radio keys and there 
definitely is audio input to the K3 from the PC because I can hear K3 
monitor audio of the tone. Varying the MON level on the K3 varies the 
FT8 tone so I'm quite certain the FT8 tone is coming into the K3. 
However the radio doesn't put out any power and there isn't any ALC 
indication whatsoever. I've adjusted the line in level to max and set 
the WSJT-X "PWR" slider to max but I still can't get the radio to put 
out any power nor any ALC indication.


I've also tried using N1MM to send AFSK RTTY as I did yesterday but I 
still get no RF power output from the K3.


What the #$^%&^ am I missing?


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Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Support?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Try k3supp...@elecraft.com

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-02-26 3:35 PM, Jay Radcliffe wrote:

I have a K3 that I am having some trouble with (Low power output and
2m module no output). I have been emailing supp...@elecraft.com for
weeks now and have gotten no response.

1. Is Elecraft Support still in business? Maybe I can get a better
contact there?
2. Can someone recommend another repair center?

Jay n8os


Jay Radcliffe
Twitter: @jradcliffe02
E-Mail: jay.radcli...@gmail.com
LinkedIn + Resume: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jradcliffe02



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Re: [Elecraft] K3s USB audio problem; both channels identical

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I found out that I lost the audio of the MAIN RX on the USB port of
my K3s


Thank Microsoft!

In Windows Sound Control Panel (You may need to access it via
Settings -> System -> Sound -> Related Settings)

Select the Recording tab
Select (double click) Line for USB Audio CODEC in the K3
Select the *Advanced* tab
Set the Default Format to "2 channel, 16 bit, 48000 Hz"
(48 KHz is required for digital applications like WSJTX)
Click "Apply"

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-02-20 5:45 AM, h...@kpnplanet.nl wrote:

Hi Elecrafters,

  


I found out that I lost the audio of the MAIN RX on the USB port of my K3s
(with SUB RX  installed)

On all other audio outputs (speaker, headphone, line-out) MAIN and SUB audio
are present.

On the USB port the Right and Left audio stream are identical. (so both L
and R is MAIN audio now)

  


I did check on new firmware and I did an MCU LD with all the latest versions
available. (which were already loaded anyway)

The USB problem was still there.

  


Once again an MCU LD.

The audio via USB is still only MAIN (at both channels), no SUB audio.

  


An EE INIT with some older configurations.

This should not have any impact and it didn't; no change.

  


CAT is working OK via USB.

Different cables make no difference (as expected).

Changing L-MIX-R to different settings makes no difference (as expected)

  


Besides USB, power and antenna nothing else is connected to the K3s.

  


After some K3s power cycles the reverse is now happening.

USB audio is only SUB audio (both R and L channel) and no MAIN audio is
present

The rest of the audio outputs remains OK.

  


I did check USB audio on 2 different PC's (both WIN10) with various audio
programs which are using Right and/or Left channel audio input (WSJT-X,
MSHV, Visual Analyser).

All have the same issue.

Windows 10 settings are OK, mic. input is set for 2 channels.

There are no other programs running, requiring audio input.

  


Visual examination of the KIO3B boards revealed nothing.

  


Anyone with some bright ideas that could help me out?

  


73 Henk

PA0C

  


PS: I did sent a mail to Elecraft support, but hope to get some feedback
from this group as well.




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Re: [Elecraft] Powering down K3 using DXLab Commander

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

The K3/K3S does not have any provision to turn on via the RS-232/USB
interface.  When it is powered down the processor is not running so
there is nothing there to interpret commands.

The only way to perform a remote power on is to pull the "power on" line
of the ACC connector to ground for at least 100 msec (K3 Owner's Manual,
page 44).  Unfortunately, I do not know that Commander has any provision
to toggle a specific hardware signal in response to a User Defined
Command.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-02-12 2:46 PM, David F. Reed wrote:
I need some help figuring this out; I can do the power down from the 
Elecraft Utility (using command "*PS0;*")


In trying to get it to run from Commander, I have done the following 
(but no results); other than this, Commander is working fine.


User -defined Command Sequence:
     Note:             Power Off
     Command:    PS0;

Unfortunately, hitting Run on the edit screen, or clicking F5 button 
produces no results.


Any hints for the befuddled?

Thanks & 73 de Dave, W5SV



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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 on AM

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-02-04 3:12 PM, Grant Youngman wrote:
Actually, that assumes that peak to avg is exactly 4.  Which it 
rarely (never?) is with a real human voice.

It also assumes the modulation is symmetrical and that the mic is
wired with the correct polarity.

> A monitor scope on the output is essential …

 ... and that the deflection on the scope is accurately calibrated
to PEP level (peak voltage across 50 Ohms).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-02-04 3:12 PM, Grant Youngman wrote:

Actually, that assumes that peak to avg is exactly 4.  Which it rarely (never?) 
is with a real human voice.

Aside from the legal (and oft disputed) aspects of AM power limits, you’re 
better off being conservative and setting drive levels for something under 375W 
carrier from the amp.  Maybe 250-300W.  That will ensure you have some headroom 
for voice peaks (especially if you have a good bit of positive voice 
asymmetry), keep the amp cooler, etc.  And no one on the receiving end will 
know the difference, anyway.  The referenced article is a good place to start.

A monitor scope on the output is essential …

Grant NQ5T


On Feb 4, 2021, at 2:22 PM, Morgan Bailey  wrote:

The max that you can legally run is 375 watts carrier. That on AM will get
you 1500 watts PEP. YMMV. I do not know the spex on the 1500 but that may
put you in the ballpark. Understanding linearity, for AM is covered here:

https://www.w8ji.com/am_linear_amplifiers.htm

If you want to run AM, this is where I would start reading.



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Re: [Elecraft] Can I rent a K4?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Your numbers are entirely unrealistic for for a $4000 transceiver.

The discount for a "used" (rental stock) device would need to be
*at least* 20-25% (typical of "B Stock" in the professional AV
world).  A two to four week rental would need to be *at least*
$500, if not more, to cover the overhead, management, repair and
refurbishment (with every rental) costs of such an endeavor.

Given the constrained availability of the K4, the ability of the
factory to sell every unit they can ship for the next 18-24 months
at a minimum, limited repair capacity, and cost or repair parts,
Elecraft would be losing money with any rental operation.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-02-03 3:31 PM, John Harper wrote:

Let's throw some numbers in, just for S:

I pay $200 for 2 weeks of togetherness with a K4. Another $100 for 2-way
shipping.

I'm out $300 if I decide not to keep the rig.

No one's going to go for this unless they're already thinking seriously of
buying the thing. If they only like it marginally, they realize they now
have a $300 dud to send back or (more likely) they realize that they're
already 85 or 90% of the way (financially) toward ownership.

And...Elecraft only has 10 K4's slotted for this program. They'll prolly
sell 8 or 9 of them and can continue to rent, or eventually sell as used
(at 90% retail) the remaining two. They're ahead either way.

To top it off, they benefit from the social media buzz created by those 90%
who like, decide to keep and rave about the rig online. A few may even name
their firstborns Wayne and/or Eric. It's a win-win for all involved.

Few people who use/own one are dissatisfied with an E rig. This would
potentially increase the number of people within that pool.

John AE5X
https://ae5x.blogspot.com


The real problem with rental returns ("B Stock") is that is can
no longer be sold as new resulting in a loss of value that is
often more than the rental proceeds.

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Re: [Elecraft] Can I rent a K4?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

No, the deposit is typically for damage and/or late charges.
Deposits are generally nowhere near to the replacement cost
of expensive equipment.

The real problem with rental returns ("B Stock") is that is can
no longer be sold as new resulting in a loss of value that is
often more than the rental proceeds.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-02-03 12:44 PM, Eric Garner wrote:

isn't that why most expensive things require a deposit to rent them?

Eric KI7LTT

On Wed, Feb 3, 2021 at 9:32 AM Alan - G4GNX  wrote:


I can't see that working.

When a renter defaults and does a runner, Elecraft would have to layout
a lot in recovery fees and maybe even end up with a pile of junk for
their trouble.

It might work in a very small country or if they had a physical presence
in all states.

73,

Alan. G4GNX


-- Original Message --
From: "John Harper" 
To: "Elecraft list" 
Sent: 03/02/2021 17:20:47
Subject: [Elecraft] Can I rent a K4?


I wonder if this model would work?

Flex offers a refund for those who try one of their rigs and don't like

it.

But a rental would pose less risk to the manufacturer.

There are (rumored) a small number of K4's in existence - the rest, of
course, are on hold. But regardless...even after full production has

begun:


What if, before plunking down 4 kilodollars, I could rent the rig for two
weeks?

If I don't like it, I send it back to Elecraft and I'm only out the rental
fee and the cost to ship (renter pays shipping in both directions).

If I do like it, I keep the rig and pay the balance.

The rental fee would separate the serious potential buyers from those
simply wanting a two-week joyride. The question is, how much of a rental
fee would be acceptable for a company to offer such a business model?

John AE5X
https://ae5x.blogspot.com



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Re: [Elecraft] Email security

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> Use a separate email account.

Amen!  I use a separate e-mail account for posting to e-mail lists
*AND* "forums".  My e-mail program is configured to accept e-mail
to that address *only* from the lists.  Any e-mail *NOT* from the
lists to that address goes directly to the spam folder.

Those from whom I want to hear have my personal e-mail, my ham e-mail
(as appropriate) or are in my e-mail "white list."  If I am posting in
a "business" capacity, the business/reply e-mail is in the signature
block (and/or the header).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-30 1:09 PM, w...@w2xj.net wrote:

I like things just as they are and avoid social media. Got at problem? Use a 
separate email account.

Sent from my iPad


On Jan 30, 2021, at 12:35 PM, Andy Durbin  wrote:

One of the reasons this antiquated "reflector" will never convert to a much more capable "group" 
is cited as being security.  However, unlike the "groups" to which I subscribe, this "reflector" 
provides no protection against disclosure of people's personal email addresses.
Please do not include personal email addresses in replies to this 
list/reflector.   I already receive far too much garbage email.

Thanks,
Andy, k3wyc



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Re: [Elecraft] Subject: Waaay OT: A new kind of QRM to be aware of ... warning issued by FCC today

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-01-18 2:55 PM, Phil Kane wrote:

For a while, the FCC declined to take action against criminal (like 
"convicted") violators if the crime did not involve

telecommunications law.  I don't remember the actual case that Doug
mentioned other than it wasn't one of mine :)

Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ (sk).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-18 2:55 PM, Phil Kane wrote:

On 1/18/2021 10:36 AM, Doug Faunt N6TQS +1-510-717-1197 wrote:


There was a case a while back where a ham had his license pulled
because he was convicted of telecom fraud. IIRC, the FCC said it was
evidence that he was unwilling to follow the rules. And I think it
only came visible because he protested, or filed to get it reinstated. 
I suspect Phil can recall more details. It's been a
while. 


For a while, the FCC declined to take action against criminal (like 
"convicted") violators if the crime did not involve telecommunications 
law.  I don't remember the actual case that Doug mentioned other than it 
wasn't one of mine :)  but I do remember that there have been several. 
For other violators, there is a provision in the Communications Act that 
requires the FCC to determine if the conviction bears on the moral 
qualifications to become or remain an FCC license holder, and there are 
provisions in other statutes that bar someone from holding or receiving 
a license if in arrears to court-mandated payments..


As far as the present situation, what the notice said (in plain 
language) is using a radio while planning or committing a crime is a 
crime itself. Has nothing to do with the content as long as it does not 
involve planning or committing that criminal act.  Yes, there are limits 
to First-Amendment-protected speech.   (Pardon me if I'm teaching 
first-year Constitutional Law.)


73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane
Elecraft K2/100   s/n 5402

 From a Clearing in the Silicon Forest
Beaverton (Washington County) Oregon




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Re: [Elecraft] Ten Tec Orion II and KPA500

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> I am not sure about the O2 but it should fit to KPA.

Not quite.  According to the description this board takes
BCD input and provides 12 one line per band active high
outputs.  It is just backward from what is needed to
convert the Orion II "one line per band" output to the
BCD for KPA500/KPA1500.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-17 5:20 PM, Petr, OK1RP/M0SIS wrote:

Hi Barry,

I know that I am coming too late...:)
I found today this link for decoder:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/12-Band-BCD-Decoder-Yaesu-Elecraft-Apache-Labs/203217549978?hash=item2f50b5ba9a:g:nWoAAOSwl5hf1e1Z

I am not sure about the O2 but it should fit to KPA.

Stay safe!





-
73 - Petr, OK1RP
"Apple & Elecraft freak"
B:http://ok1rp.blogspot.com
MeWe: https://bit.ly/2HGPoDx
MeWe: https://bit.ly/2FmwvDt
--


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Re: [Elecraft] Ten Tec Orion II and KPA500

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> or alternatively has anyone designed something home brew to
> achieve the purpose.

Takes nothing more than a 74LS147 and some pull up resistors
on the inputs and inverters (or open collector transistors with
pull ups) on the outputs.  The Orion II band outputs are open
collector - maximum pull-up current is specified in the Orion II
manual.

Everything you need to know to roll your own is in the 74LS147
data sheet.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-16 6:58 PM, Barry Simpson wrote:

Gooday all

I use my Ten Tec Orion II with my KPA500 and usually try to manually switch
bands rather than rely on the RF sensing.

I would really like to use the band information output from the Orion II to
automatically switch bands on the KPA500.

Does anybody know of a band decoder which is compatible with both pieces of
equipment or alternatively has anyone designed something home brew to
achieve the purpose.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ



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Re: [Elecraft] Delivery of the K4

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Al Lorona wrote:

If by 'most infectious' you mean highest number of cases per 100K 
residentsin the last 7 days, that distinction goes to Arizona. If you

mean most deaths per 100K in the last 7 days, CA isn't even close to
Kansas in the top spot.


Perhaps for now.  However, if one considers asinine and uneven business
killing covid restrictions, California and New York are far and away
the leaders.  States in which the politicians don't even follow the
rules they make for everyone else.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-06 11:38 AM, turnbull wrote:


Hello Doug,     Let us not wish the Golden State such trouble, despite my 
spelling, 'e pluris unum'.   My father, WA1GHS would kill me having been a 
latin and greek graduate.    Then Elecraft might go to China like so many 
others including Tesla and Apple.    I think there are troubles in most places. 
  While conservative now, how can I forget Scott McKenzie - no never.Peace and 
73 Doug EI2CNSent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
 Original message From: Doug Renwick  Date: 06/01/2021  
16:19  (GMT+00:00) To: 'Elecraft Reflector'  Subject: Re: 
[Elecraft] Delivery of the K4 I understand many companies are leaving California. Hint, 
hint.DougFree Climbing - The ultimate test of strength and technique.-Original 
Message-From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On 
Behalf Of Al LoronaSent: January-05-21 7:47 PMTo: Elecraft ReflectorSubject: Re: [Elecraft] 
Delivery of the K4 If by 'most infectious' you mean highest number of cases per 100K residentsin 
the last 7 days, that distinction goes to Arizona. If you mean most deaths per 100K in the last 7 
days, CA isn't even close toKansas in the top spot.But we Californians know what you meant, and 
thanks for the sympathy.Source: CDC COVID Data Tracker.Al  W6LX    On Tuesday, January 5, 2021, 
03:54:54 PM PST, Paul Van Dyke wrote:    Considering that 
California is now the most infectious state in the UnitedStates for Covid-19, I suspect the Eric 
and Wayne have their hands fulljust being alive, and making sure their, friends, family, 
employees arestaying alive  they have been through going through living h*** forover a 
year..Paul - KB9AVO



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[Elecraft] Fwd: Any value in using a Microkeyer III with a K3S or K4?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Unless the interface is poorly designed (like some "low price"
amateur only devices), the noise floor is generally set by the
IF noise in the transceiver on the higher bands and by the
"no signal" atmospheric noise on the low bands.

A 24 bit sound card has the potential to provide greater dynamic
range than the more common 16 bit cards but *only* if the software
is written to take advantage of the "extra bits".  Swapping a 24
bit sound card for a 16 bit sound card will make no difference
on existing software like MMTTY, FLDIGI/DM780, etc.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-03 6:50 PM, Courtney Krehbiel wrote:

I have a K3... the best radio I've ever owed in my 50+ year ham life.  I'm 
currently using a US Interface Navigator with it for digital modes.  This is 
now sold as the Time Wave Navigator and has worked really well for me for many 
years.

My understanding is that the K3S and now the incoming K4's have sound cards 
built-in via the USB port.  So perhaps I won't need the Navigator anymore when 
my K4 eventually arrives.  But my question is whether there is still something 
to be gained using a newer transceiver interface with the K3S or K4?  I've been 
looking at the Microkeyer III with its 24 bit audio processing.  Does anyone 
have any hands-on experience with the Microkeyer III with Elecraft radios?  I'm 
particularly interested if it has a lower noise floor or other features that 
might not be found in the stock K3S or K4.

Thanks for any input or feedback!

   -- Courtney  KD6X



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Re: [Elecraft] Any value in using a Microkeyer III with a K3S or K4?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

There's also the issue of how the units address differing sample 
rates.WSJT-X works at 16-bits, 48 kHz. If the hardware runs at 96 or

192 kHz, how good are they at the conversion. And so on.


The sample rate conversion is a function of the operating system - not
the sound card (CODEC).  Windows sets the hardware to operate at what
is defined as the "Default Format" and accepts that sample rate, bits,
channels (e.g., "2 channel, 16 bit, 48000 Hz (DVD quality)").  When an
application opens the sound card for input with different parameters
the operating system does the up/down sampling leaving the original
data stream available for other applications (the ability of multiple
applications/instances to operate in parallel).

The "easiest" (most accurate) conversion is when the sample rates are
integer multiples (e.g., 8000, 12000, 16000, 32000, 48000 Hz).  The
least accurate conversions are where the sample rates are non-integer
multiples (e.g. 44100 Hz, 11025 Hz an 48000 Hz.).  Generally, bit depth
conversions are "integer multiples" but there is considerable loss of
linearity (at the low end) when downsampling from 24 bit to 16 bit or
16 bit to 8 bit, etc.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-05 4:17 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
I strongly agree with Joe on this. The only thing I'll take exception is 
that I suspect his estimates of noise levels are wildly optimistic, 
which further supports his observations about sound card dynamic range. 
 From where I sit with neighbors running WSJT-X modes on the same band, 
I look at dynamic range differently.


Consider a local who's 50 dB over S9 on a well calibrated S-meter (yes, 
that's optimistic too). If you accept 5 dB/S-unit (I don't), your lower 
limit is an S2 signal, or S1 at 6dB/S-unit. Few hams have noise levels 
below S5. Depending on band and the direction my antennas are listening, 
my noise level in the Santa Cruz Mountains with nearest neighbors ~400 
ft from my antennas is S1-S2 with my 6M optimally aimed (to the North 
Pole) to reduce noise and S4-5 pointed at either two solar systems in 
those closer houses. While still in a Chicago residentail neighborhood, 
it was a very good day if I got below S6 on HF on very inferior 
antennas. You've got to be in the middle of NOWHERE with a 50dB over S9 
neighbor to need more than a 16-bit sound card.


What you DO want is a much better than average sound card, which is why 
I've looked to the better units designed for the semi-pro audio market. 
One of the qualities of A/D and D/A stages important both to audio pros 
and to hams is their amplitude linearity around their noise floor (and 
very quiet audio stage feeding the A/D converter.


There's also the issue of how the units address differing sample 
rates.WSJT-X works at 16-bits, 48 kHz. If the hardware runs at 96 or 192 
kHz, how good are they at the conversion. And so on.


73, Jim K9YC

On 1/4/2021 5:36 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:


Are you aware of any move afoot to support higher bit levels in 

 > upcoming versions of popular software?

I have no insight into the roadmap for most amateur digital software.
However, I doubt that many developers will expend the effort to do
24 bit processing.  The 97 dB (theoretical) - 88 to 90 dB practical
dynamic range of a well designed sound card is quite adequate for most
HF purposes.

The "background noise" in suburban/semi rural areas is on the order of
-135 dBm (~0.05 uV).  That means a 90 dB dynamic range can handle from
the background noise to about S9+30 dB.  Using an attenuator or reducing
the RF gain in the presence of signals above S9+20 dB can extend the
useful dynamic range by another 20 dB or more.

The only use case for greater dynamic range would be for SDR purposes
where a very wide spectrum was being processed simultaneously or for
extremely "quiet" frequencies (e.g. VHF/UHF with antennas pointed to
a quiet part of the sky - EME or radio astronomy).  In the VHF/UHF
case, dynamic range (noise floor) can be improved much more economically
through the use of low noise preamplifiers (and receiving converters).

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-04 7:34 PM, Courtney Krehbiel wrote:
Thank you for your input Joe!  I didn't really think of the software 
as impacting the functional resolution of the sound card.  But upon 
looking at the block diagram for my Navigator, I can see that's the 
case.  Are you aware of any move afoot to support higher bit levels 
in upcoming versions of popular software?


Thanks again, and 73!

   -- Courtney  KD6X

-Original Message-
From: Joe Subich, W4TV 
Sent: Sunday, January 3, 2021 7:12 PM
To: Courtney Krehbiel 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Any value in using a Microkeyer III with a 
K3S or K4?



Unless the interface is poorly designed (like some "low price"
amateur only devices), the noise floor is generally set by the IF 
noise in the transceiver on the higher bands and by the "no signal

Re: [Elecraft] Any value in using a Microkeyer III with a K3S or K4?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Are you aware of any move afoot to support higher bit levels in 

> upcoming versions of popular software?

I have no insight into the roadmap for most amateur digital software.
However, I doubt that many developers will expend the effort to do
24 bit processing.  The 97 dB (theoretical) - 88 to 90 dB practical
dynamic range of a well designed sound card is quite adequate for most
HF purposes.

The "background noise" in suburban/semi rural areas is on the order of
-135 dBm (~0.05 uV).  That means a 90 dB dynamic range can handle from
the background noise to about S9+30 dB.  Using an attenuator or reducing
the RF gain in the presence of signals above S9+20 dB can extend the
useful dynamic range by another 20 dB or more.

The only use case for greater dynamic range would be for SDR purposes
where a very wide spectrum was being processed simultaneously or for
extremely "quiet" frequencies (e.g. VHF/UHF with antennas pointed to
a quiet part of the sky - EME or radio astronomy).  In the VHF/UHF
case, dynamic range (noise floor) can be improved much more economically
through the use of low noise preamplifiers (and receiving converters).

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-04 7:34 PM, Courtney Krehbiel wrote:

Thank you for your input Joe!  I didn't really think of the software as 
impacting the functional resolution of the sound card.  But upon looking at the 
block diagram for my Navigator, I can see that's the case.  Are you aware of 
any move afoot to support higher bit levels in upcoming versions of popular 
software?

Thanks again, and 73!

   -- Courtney  KD6X

-Original Message-
From: Joe Subich, W4TV 
Sent: Sunday, January 3, 2021 7:12 PM
To: Courtney Krehbiel 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Any value in using a Microkeyer III with a K3S or K4?


Unless the interface is poorly designed (like some "low price"
amateur only devices), the noise floor is generally set by the IF noise in the 
transceiver on the higher bands and by the "no signal" atmospheric noise on the 
low bands.

A 24 bit sound card has the potential to provide greater dynamic range than the more 
common 16 bit cards but *only* if the software is written to take advantage of the 
"extra bits".  Swapping a 24 bit sound card for a 16 bit sound card will make 
no difference on existing software like MMTTY, FLDIGI/DM780, etc.

73,

 ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-03 6:50 PM, Courtney Krehbiel wrote:

I have a K3... the best radio I've ever owed in my 50+ year ham life.  I'm 
currently using a US Interface Navigator with it for digital modes.  This is 
now sold as the Time Wave Navigator and has worked really well for me for many 
years.

My understanding is that the K3S and now the incoming K4's have sound cards 
built-in via the USB port.  So perhaps I won't need the Navigator anymore when 
my K4 eventually arrives.  But my question is whether there is still something 
to be gained using a newer transceiver interface with the K3S or K4?  I've been 
looking at the Microkeyer III with its 24 bit audio processing.  Does anyone 
have any hands-on experience with the Microkeyer III with Elecraft radios?  I'm 
particularly interested if it has a lower noise floor or other features that 
might not be found in the stock K3S or K4.

Thanks for any input or feedback!

-- Courtney  KD6X




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Re: [Elecraft] P3 Panadapter Cable Connections

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-01-04 4:07 PM, Rick NK7I wrote:
> While I don't have the Microham, the Y should be first in the series
> (listen only port to the Microham);

*NO!!!*  The microHAM USB III is, in part, a USB to Serial converter.
It provides the CAT connection to the transceiver and should be treated
as a computer serial port.  The RS232 connection should *NEVER* be
attached to a "listen only" port on a "Y" cable.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-04 4:07 PM, Rick NK7I wrote:
While I don't have the Microham, the Y should be first in the series 
(listen only port to the Microham); to the P3, then the cable from the 
P3 to the K3 so they can 'chat'.  (That is the same as I do for my 
SteppIR controller.)


HNY,
Rick NK7I


On 1/4/2021 12:28 PM, MICHAEL SMITH wrote:

Gentlemen:

I recently purchased a P3 and connected it to my K3.  The installation 
shares the RS232 connection with a Microham USB interface III for 
digital operation.  I used a Y cable to connect both of these units 
simultaneously.


I find I cannot run both at the same time.  If I do, the P3 does not 
display the frequency at the top of the screen, and does not display 
the band-pass of the VFO A.  Each unit will run separately with full 
function.


Has anyone else experienced this interaction?  Were you able to adjust 
the connection to allow full function of both units?  How did you do it?


73, Mike Smith
K0CCM



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Re: [Elecraft] P3 Panadapter Cable Connections

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

I recently purchased a P3 and connected it to my K3.  The 
installation shares the RS232 connection with a Microham USB 
interface III for digital operation.  I used a Y cable to connect 
both of these units simultaneously.

That is the *WRONG WAY* to connect a K3, P3 and Computer.

Connect the RS-232 plug from microHAM USB III to the "PC" jack
on the P3.  Connect the XCVR jack on the P3 to the RS232 jack
on the K3.  Set the K3 RS232 RATE to 38,400 and set the CAT
Rate in your logging software to 38,400 as well.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-04 3:28 PM, MICHAEL SMITH wrote:

Gentlemen:

I recently purchased a P3 and connected it to my K3.  The installation shares 
the RS232 connection with a Microham USB interface III for digital operation.  
I used a Y cable to connect both of these units simultaneously.

I find I cannot run both at the same time.  If I do, the P3 does not display 
the frequency at the top of the screen, and does not display the band-pass of 
the VFO A.  Each unit will run separately with full function.

Has anyone else experienced this interaction?  Were you able to adjust the 
connection to allow full function of both units?  How did you do it?

73, Mike Smith
K0CCM


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Re: [Elecraft] Long messages

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2021-01-04 8:38 AM, Louandzip via Elecraft wrote:

That would def be my preference.  20 years ago, everything was 
reflectors, but Elecraft is the only one I'm dealing with now.  Much 
of the traffic is not really relevant to me and a well structured 
forum would make it much quicker and easier for the user to sort 
through, and easier to contribute to.


A competent e-mail program like Thunderbird or Outlook will take care
of all those issues, provide the advantages of a "forum", allow the
user to download the messages in bulk then work (read/respond) offline
(e.g. on an airplane, in areas where WiFi/LTE/5G are not available)
and upload responses in bulk when connectivity is available.

Competent e-mail software does wonders to maximize signal to noise
ratio - even with a "forum" - although it can't eliminate the
"Sent to all" generated flame wars that are unfortunately more common
with forum based groups than properly configured e-mail lists.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-04 8:38 AM, Louandzip via Elecraft wrote:

  >>> Just another reason why a forum makes so much more sense than pushing out
emails to everyone. Barry W2UP<<<
That would def be my preference.  20 years ago, everything was reflectors, but 
Elecraft is the only one I'm dealing with now.  Much of the traffic is not 
really relevant to me and a well structured forum would make it much quicker 
and easier for the user to sort through, and easier to contribute to.
I had been out of the loop for quite a few years and now getting back into it, 
dusting off my K1 and K2,  and looking at new rigs, I was disappointed to find 
Elecraft still using a reflector.
For me, Elecraft having a forum would "reflect" possessively on the company.
Lou W7HV
 On Monday, January 4, 2021, 6:13:06 AM MST, Barry  wrote:
  
  Just another reason why a forum makes so much more sense than pushing out

emails to everyone.

Barry W2UP



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Re: [Elecraft] External sound card advice needed to attach to K3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> Bad form.  They should know - or be taught - better.

But there is no "teaching" ... give them a book with all the license
questions, let them memorize them and get a license without a CW exam
or test that amounts to anything - even for Amateur Extra these days.

ARRL is too busy promoting WinStink and other quasi commercial activity
to spend pages in QST and/or staff time at hamfest fora on good
operating practice for digital modes.

> Bad form.  They should know - or be taught - better.  Forgive me, I'm
> and old f*** who's only been licensed 69 years.

You've got about 19 years on me but I don't feel like an old f***.
I do feel like someone trying to hold back the tide with a push broom.


73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-01 8:23 PM, Phil Kane wrote:

On 1/1/2021 1:57 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:


The number of amateurs using some kind of DX alerting system and/or
streaming music while waiting for someone else to find them "a new
one" to work in significant and you can hear most of their alerts
or music on the air from time to time.


Bad form.  They should know - or be taught - better.  Forgive me, I'm 
and old f*** who's only been licensed 69 years.


73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane
Elecraft K2/100   s/n 5402

 From a Clearing in the Silicon Forest
Beaverton (Washington County) Oregon




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Re: [Elecraft] External sound card advice needed to attach to K3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Given the garbage audio heard on the bands, you are one in 10,000
who does not do *some* of the other things with the shack computer.

The number of amateurs using some kind of DX alerting system and/or
streaming music while waiting for someone else to find them "a new
one" to work in significant and you can hear most of their alerts
or music on the air from time to time.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-01 2:18 PM, Wes wrote:
How about using, as I do, a totally separate computer that runs the 
radio equipment and logging functions.  All of that other stuff is 
banned from the shack and done on the desktop computer in the office.  I 
don't need audible alerts of anything, thanks.


Wes  N7WS


On 1/1/2021 11:58 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:


That doesn't prevent other sounds - particularly VoIP (Zoom/Skype)
and steaming audio (Pandor, Podcasts, etc.) from reaching the rig
(and being transmitted if the digital program is running and/or
the VOX is enabled).

There *IS NO BETTER SOLUTION* than a separate sound card for the
rig connection and proper a properly configured operating system
that separates "computer audio" and "radio audio".

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV


On 2021-01-01 1:20 PM, Wes wrote:

Turn off Windows sounds in Control Panel and operate.

On 1/1/2021 9:56 AM, Rick Bates, NK7I wrote:
A generically 'bad' idea and is the reason that voice, operating 
system sounds (all illegal) and poor audio are often in the digital 
portions of the bands.


HNY!
Rick NK7I

On 1/1/2021 8:50 AM, Wes wrote:

You don't need a sound card beyond the one in your computer.



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