Re: [Elecraft] Latest status on K3 to K3s boards?
ky7k, Steve My records say I ordered before the March 2021 deadline. Maybe the S/N 2274 put me into another category Thank you I’ll check it out further…. Thank You 73 John Lawrence W1QS Sent from the all new Aol app for iOS On Sunday, September 5, 2021, 8:55 PM, ky7k wrote: For what it’s worth... I preordered 2 synths on April 22 and they shipped on June 11 Ky7k Sent from my iPad > On Sep 5, 2021, at 17:36, JOHN LAWRENCE via Elecraft > wrote: > > HELLO K3 owners and Elecraft Managers > Now that September arrived, does anyone know the latest on pre-ordered > synthesizer and USB board kits > > > Thanks > John, W1QS, exN6JL > > Sent from the all new Aol app for iOS > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to k...@cox.net __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Latest status on K3 to K3s boards?
HELLO K3 owners and Elecraft Managers Now that September arrived, does anyone know the latest on pre-ordered synthesizer and USB board kits Thanks John, W1QS, exN6JL Sent from the all new Aol app for iOS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 s/n 2274 update to new synthesizer board
Hi Don I was thinking of you when making this inquiry. Thank you! I’m also changing K3 to other changes: usb io, plus adding the 2 meter and GPS boards aimed at the digital mode use. Awaiting last K3 update production boards to arrive in June. Again thanks for tip on synthesizer board washers when removing the old board. 73, John Lawrence W1QS Sent from the all new Aol app for iOS On Monday, May 10, 2021, 11:29 AM, Don Wilhelm wrote: John, Yes, there are lockwashers behind the board - when removing the old synth, do not initially remove the screws completely - loosen them until they are almost out, then tilt the board toward the rear and push the lockwashers up against the old synth board. Now you can fully remove the screws without dropping the lockwashers (they will stay on the screws if you are careful) 73, Don W3FPR On 5/10/2021 10:54 AM, JOHN LAWRENCE via Elecraft wrote: > Hi > any hands on experiences detail that might be useful if I do it myself when > the kit arrives. Thanks > John, W1QS > > > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] K3 s/n 2274 update to new synthesizer board
Hi any hands on experiences detail that might be useful if I do it myself when the kit arrives. Thanks John, W1QS Sent from the all new Aol app for iOS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3 For Sale
KX3 FOR SALE Like new, no scratches, factory built. Used in one CW Field Day to produce over 300 QSOs on CW then stored. s/n 6027, with Hand Mic, Real Time Clock/Battery and 3KHz Roofing Filter options. USB to serial cable. ACC2 break out adapter. Nifty stand and Manuals included. Elecraft operation, KE7X and Nifty mini manuals. All works great with especially super QSK cw and receiver best I've ever used for high speed contest style operation. No internal antenna tuner to increase reliability and allow external manual tuner thus reducing any RFI potential. It works perfectly into the KXPA series amps without a tuner in between. Antenna tuners should be at the antenna away from the shack or tent. . $1195.00 obo plus shipping and no Pay Pal please. John W1QS 207 615 2824 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3 For Sale
KX3 FOR SALE Like new, no scratches, factory built. Used in one CW Field Day to produce over 300 QSOs on CW then stored. s/n 6027, with Hand Mic, Real Time Clock/Battery and 3KHz Roofing Filter options. USB to serial cable. ACC2 break out adapter. Nifty stand and Manuals included. Elecraft operation, KE7X and Nifty mini manuals. All works great with especially super QSK cw and receiver best I've ever used for high speed contest style operation. No internal antenna tuner to increase reliability and allow external manual tuner thus reducing any RFI potential. It works perfectly into the KXPA series amps without a tuner in between. Antenna tuners should be at the antenna away from the shack or tent. . $1195.00 obo plus shipping and no Pay Pal please. John W1QS 207 615 2824 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Fwd: KX3 IQ ADC and IQ DAC specification?
Matt Thanks for your suggestion. I am trying to understand what it took to reach this level of SDR performance knowing the specs of the IQ ADC on the receive side and IQ DAC on the TX side of the archritecture of the KX3. Current drain isn't my concern except in the case of the KX3, it must be able to support battery use in the targeted application. I'm hoping a factory response is received too. Thanks John W1QS -Original Message- From: Matt Maguire <matt.vk...@gmail.com> To: John Lawrence <j123...@aol.com>; elecraft <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> Sent: Fri, Feb 5, 2016 1:31 am Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 IQ ADC and IQ DAC specification? Judging by the anti-aliasing filters, I would guess maybe 48k samples per second, 24 bits per sample. Could be higher at 96k which could reduce noise slightly via decimation, but that would probably consume extra power and not be worth it. But does it really matter? That is all internal to the radio, and is not exposed on any of the external interfaces. 73, Matt VK2RQ Envoyé via Outlook Mobile _____ From: John Lawrence via Elecraft <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> Sent: vendredi, février 5, 2016 4:45 PM Subject: [Elecraft] KX3 IQ ADC and IQ DAC specification? To: <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> I am trying to determine the IQ ADC and IQ DAC specification in the KX3.I'm interested in determinng how many bits and the speed...Bit resolution and samples per second? Thanks John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3 IQ ADC and IQ DAC specification?
I am trying to determine the IQ ADC and IQ DAC specification in the KX3.I'm interested in determinng how many bits and the speed...Bit resolution and samples per second? Thanks John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] FTDI to serial adapter for K3 with Windows 7 change. Why?
I have recently had to reform my C drive and reload Windows 7 Pro After doing the process of reinstalling the K3 utilities off the Elecraft site it has given me an outcome not meeting the prior results. It down loaded fine but now I get PTT pulses on boot or sleep turn on. Never before with the same OS did the same DELL give me this. Exactly, I get a series of PTT key up pulses in a series of, " - - - - - - - " each dash representing the short PTT keyup pulses on the K3 and it's always the seme series of PTT key ups. Something has changed but it isn't the FTDI driver. The command is coming from the Win 7 OS generating it with the FTDI driver. Is there something in the BIOS that has changed? This is the Elecraft FTDI chip set cable. Any Windows 7 gurus who can help me? Thanks John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] My Conditions!
- This mail is in HTML. Some elements may be ommited in plain text. - Sorry for any inconvenience, I'm in a terrible situation. Am stranded here in Manila, Philippines since last night. I was hurt and robbed on my way to the hotel I stayed and my luggage is still in custody of the hotel management pending when I make payment on outstanding bills I owe. Am waiting for my colleagues to send me money to get back home but they have not responded and my return flight will be leaving soon. Please let me know if you can help and I will refund the money back to you as soon as I get back home. Please let me know if I can count on you and I need you to keep checking your email because it's the only way I can reach you at the moment. Let me know if you can be of help. Best regards John John Lawrence Pond Brook Farm 455 Flanders Corner Road Waldoboro, Maine 04572 j123...@aol.com 207-605-2154 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Synchronized and stable GPS phase lock for KX3, K3 and XV transverters
Bob The Trimble Thunderbolt is scarce on the used market and when they appear the price is painful. They were designed and manufactured for the BB wireless and cellular market when the industry switched from analog to digital synchronized cell sites. I was part of that out business. We need a compatible module that will work with the Elecraft products. Today there are chips that reduce to complexity and price that would make it possible to have a product that will reach the Elecraft user base of customers. John, W1QS Not that I had a need but I did instal the K3EXREF with a Trimble Thunderbolt GPSDO. So I have the 10MHZ reference available. I also have no present need for the XV144 XV432 to be locked to that external reference. However were a kit available to do it I would purchase the kit/accessory to do so. i would like to see it as a product. 73, Bob K2TK ex KN2TKR (1956) K2TKR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft Digest, Vol 124, Issue 15 KX3 CW Drift
Focus Group Thoughts for Elecraft Re: KX3 and K3 drift on VHF Digital Applications What about adding an external phase lock option that would also allow the 10 MHz reference phase lock and GPS sync? Many of the digital mode aps are needing this kind of stability and the KX3 with an internal 2 meter board or external XV transverter family choice. The XV series transverter LOs could have a kit for phase lock too. There are so many interested in WSPR and you have one of the gurus up north of Elecraft who's already done a design. This also would bring the Elecraft product up to what's new and state-of-the-art for both the K3 and KX3 in digital communications John, W1QS Message: 22 Date: Sun, 17 Aug 2014 09:21:53 -0700 From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Chris Johnson elecr...@ozy.us Cc: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3-2M CW Drift Message-ID: 859e5ead-9672-4372-97ad-4e126fe6d...@elecraft.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii This is within spec, though we're still looking at ways to further reduce it. 73, Wayne N6KR On Aug 17, 2014, at 4:20 AM, Chris Johnson elecr...@ozy.us wrote: I have two KX3's each with a 2M module. Both units have had the temp calibration done to them. When using CW, there is a noticeable drift in the received CW side tone. It has an unsable warble back and forth slowly +/- ~10 HZ or so. Is this the natural drift of the 2M unit I'm seeing here? If so I'm assuming that's as good as it gets. * __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] XV144 IF input levels and schematic manual Rev C April 2006
Hi Jim The version of the manual I have clearly shows on page 8 the three levels in mw and watts based on jumper settings. And Appendix C Page C-1 again gives the details and jumper settings for the tree levels, up to 0dBm, +24 dBm and + 39 dBm. Appendix Page A-5 Schematic There's a problem? I don't see it... John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3 KXPA combo at Field Day
I wish to report in after our radio club Field Day with glowing results using the KX3 and KXPA-100 combo on CW operating as W1PBR from Thomaston, Maine. We were able to work over 700 QSOs using an OCF Dipole while another 100 watt radio was up in the phone band on 40 and 20 during our operation. The club had two OCF antennas up 40 ft end to end to minimize coupling. There was some desensing but not enough to prevent dual band operation to continue. I used N1MM with the SUCCI-R USB module to connect e the laptop to the KX3 and operated in both PTT or QSK with perfect connectivity. In addition to the regular laptop keyboard, I also used a separate function key pad programed to send the N1MM exchanges. This was a learning curve for to get it all working in a month before the event with N1MM which I'd never used before. Thanks to those who offered some steerage too. John, W1QS, ex N6JL __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3 independent and simultaneous keying for computer logging on CW
Don This independent and simultaneous CW keying of the KX3 is very interesting. Using the paddle option on the KX3 simultaneously with the Keyer 3.5 mm port for CW contest logging is a great and simple set up for logging program keying the key port configured as a straight key making the fill ins process easy. However, I have found my configuration to where I use my regular keyer into the KX3 or K3 Key port a preferred way for maximum flexibility. I can use the external keyer for additional memory messages in addition to the memory messages that are sent by the logging program. The keyer has an opto isolated straight key input port where I plug in the CW output from computer based program. The three wire serial output from the USB to serial converter cable from the computer is broken out with a SUCCI-R module that provides the CW, PTT and Foot Switch ports to interface the radio along with the TX/RX serial data. The K1EL and MasterKeyer MK-1 or any other keyer with a straight key port will work for this application. Yes, your suggested configurati on using the accessory keyer paddle mounted on the KX3 keyer paddle connector and at the same time, the keyer port set up as an independent straight key for logging program keying is simpler but here m alternative provides more versatility. John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 independent and simultaneous keying for computer logging on CW
Matt Your Winkeyer with it's flow control features is something to consider if your relying on the internal KX3 keyer. That may be simpler for those who already have the Winkeyer. I'm happy with my MK-1 alternative. John, W1QS -Original Message- From: Matt VK2RQ matt.vk...@gmail.com To: John Lawrence j123...@aol.com Cc: w3fpr w3...@embarqmail.com; elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thu, May 29, 2014 9:31 am Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 independent and simultaneous keying for computer logging on CW I think connecting both your paddle and PC to a K1EL or equivalent winkeyer is a better option. This way, when you switch between PC and paddle sending, the speed will be the same. Also, I found keying the KX3 directly from the PC sounded a bit choppy, as the timing of the dits was too short. The Winkeyer has a compensation setting which makes the CW sound much better. 73, Matt VK2RQ On 29 May 2014, at 7:26 am, John Lawrence via Elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net wrote: Don This independent and simultaneous CW keying of the KX3 is very interesting. Using the paddle option on the KX3 simultaneously with the Keyer 3.5 mm port for CW contest logging is a great and simple set up for logging program keying the key port configured as a straight key making the fill ins process easy. However, I have found my configuration to where I use my regular keyer into the KX3 or K3 Key port a preferred way for maximum flexibility. I can use the external keyer for additional memory messages in addition to the memory messages that are sent by the logging program. The keyer has an opto isolated straight key input port where I plug in the CW output from computer based program. The three wire serial output from the USB to serial converter cable from the computer is broken out with a SUCCI-R module that provides the CW, PTT and Foot Switch ports to interface the radio along with the TX/RX serial data. The K1EL and MasterKeyer MK-1 or any other keyer with a straight key port will work for this application. Yes, your suggested configurati on using the accessory keyer paddle mounted on the KX3 keyer paddle connector and at the same time, the keyer port set up as an independent straight key for logging program keying is simpler but here m alternative provides more versatility. John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to matt.vk...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3 with N1MM on CW and slashes
I just got my KX3 working wonderfully with N1MM for CW using an imported break out module that's plug and play with my KX3 or K3. The SUCCI-R via EBay came in less than a week and allowed me to connect the three terminal serial adapter jack from USB to ACC1 on the KX3 or a DB9 on the K3 taking TX/RX data but the CW key and PTT are broken out on RCA jack with Opto isolation. Great little unit for under $50 and received in less than a week from Bulgaria. As offered via Ebay, it's enclosed in a little metal box. Neat! Vesko, LZ5VK has a web site too. http://www.kotarov.com/projects/succi N1MM in CW and Data sends slash just fine for me. I use the DTR keying line John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Keying oand sending CW on KX3 with N1MM
I tried to get the KX3 to work with the latest rev level of N1MM and configured it per the instructions for one cable connection using just the USB to serial cable supplied to go between the radio and PC win7. The configuration talks ok at 38400bps with commands for changing bands, vfo frequency and mode but I get an error message saying no CW port has been selected. I'm running on COM 3.In reading through the help manual I some radios require cw keying via a separate keying line into the KX3 using the serial commands set. Anyone been through this with the KX3 and figured out how to run with only the USB to serial cable? Thanks John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Function Keyboard Revisited
Thanks for all the ideas First, I gather there is some confusion as to my application intent. My inquiry was to add a stand alone device to allow the function key ascii codes to come in via an additional keyboard on a computer. And, it was to work with the computer logging programs directly must like the standard computer keyboard but be more user friendly with the function key macros by placing it off to the side of the main board. Back in the early days of computer logging with CT on DOS there were keyboards with the function keys in a cluster off to the side thus avoiding the need to reach up beyond normal touch keyboard range to access function keys and in some cases also press Fn to reach F7 through F12. By having a programmable cluster with 12 keys set as ascii keys for F1 thru F12, it would be easier to work with them at high run rates. That's all. I haven't had time to investigate the alternatives offered to me but I will. When I come up with the best answer it will be presented on here. Again a 12 key cluster with USB to run with the logging program is the goal...I did not intend to interface directly with the K3. John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Keyboards revisited
Function keys continue to be a big big deal for contesting and I too am an OT stuck on the side cluster muscle memory. Does anyone know where we could get a USB stand alone cluster of function keys that could be placed along side the regular or laptop keyboard? Or, maybe ASCII programmable 12 F key cluster? John, W1QS Sent from my iPad __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] New KX3 without VOX DLY adjustability on SSB
I'm sorting through all the functions on my new KX3 and have it working well except for SSB VOX. With either the MH3 or Heil GM5 (HC5 cartridge) my voice is clipped due to too short a delay. At the same time the CW VOX works well with more range than I'd ever need and I see a change when making DLY adjustments. Tech support had me check my settings for: VOX INT, VOX GN, MIC Level and CMP and they are in range Is this unique to my serial number 6027? John Lawrence, W1QS, ex N6JL __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Windows 7 configuration to allow seven USB 2.0 devices to work together in a multitasking enviorment?
Dear Computer Gurus In addition to all the normal devices such as the mouse and keyboard, I had hoped to be able to run a full load of USB 2.0 devices with a simple configuration of the USB ports using the WINDOWS 7 Device Manager tool. I'm running into conflicts when putting the K3 together with the KX3 and RF amplifier, all with their own utility application software programs on separate USB 2.0 ports. I've been exploring choices for some kind of USB management program that will allow me easier monitoring of all the USB connectivity devices. Right now I get conflicting statements off the Windows 7 OS as it tries to deal with COM3, 4 and 5 together while the mouse and keyboard are attached via two other USB ports. This is a DELL I5 small desktop. To avoid the trial and error world and continuing to use the Microsoft System 7 Device manager alone, is there a utility program that will help me? Oh yes, and I'm scared to death of on line free solutions that most often piggy back other stuff you don't want on to the computer. Yes, this OT wants to plug and play on the computer side so I can continue my focus on the application details. Who knows where I can find the utility that will help? Thanks John Lawrence, W1QS j123...@aol.com 207-615-2824 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] The old mic question for the NEW KX3 owner..Sorry
First of all, the KX3 is a sweet radio and have it running quickly with only small adaptations using my old 70 yo memory bank from 5 years with the K3 and K2. Now that I've read all the historical material debating the alternatives to the MH3 hand mic I'm still not sure how to get my trusted K3 Heil with a cable adapted to work with the KX3.. Yes, I'd like to be able to interchange the Heil GM with the HC5 cartridge between the K3 and the KX3. Using the KX3 I don't care about the up/dwn buttons but do want PTT. So, this mic jack with tip/ring/ring/sleeve I would like to make up an entire new cable to go from the bottom of the mic with a four pin 3.5 mm jack on the other end to plug into the KX3. Is there a pre-made solution available or what is the cleanest/simplest way to make a cable? Looks like Heil doesn't have one. Did I miss the end outcome summary for this transition to KX3? This OT with interconnects in my life since 1959 is getting too old to tease my brain on interconnect details. Instead I prefer the bigger subjects like JT65 stability for the XV-144 local oscillator. Any Elmer's with the answer out there? Thanks, John Lawrence, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] The old mic question for the NEW KX3 owner..Sorry
Bill Thank you for your information. These TRRS plugs and cables are often hard to work with due to the fine wire used on the computer interconnect business. I'm going to explore the XLR 4 and TRSS with plug sources. Up here outside Southern Maine it's all about over the Internet sourcing. John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] 2 meter EME considerations with the K3
Ed Thanks for your feedback on end to end signal EIRP rules of thumb between JT65 and CW. The frequency stability and other JT65 mode considerations are where I need the trade offs and it's nice to see it can be done with under 10 watts of drive to an amplifier in Class C. That makes it much easier than I'd thought. However, greater frequency stability is something I'll be working to achieve. I believe better frequency stability between the two ends in QSO reduces time to complete a contact. The K3 with it's internal transverter and new external 10 MHz reference option make staying within 2 or 3 Hz possible. The external reference stabilizes both the K3 and the K3's internal transverter LO. Where as, the separate XV144 with it's own TCXO option for the LO make it possible to stay within 10 Hz or so if the K3 has its own TCXO option. With the XV144, temperature change during continuous 10 watt output on J65 it will cause some drift with dissipation heat The manual says output must be run backed off to 10 watts or less output with the 100% duty cycle of JT65 transmission. So, a high gain amplifier that allows the least amount of drive from the XV144 makes it more stable. I can get to 700w power level by building a solid state amp using one of the Freescale LDMOS devices like the MRFE6VP61K25H. They have high gain around 20 dB and can be biased for near class C or AB depending on the mode operation. I already have a 50 volt supply. The array being x-pol yagi with 15.5 dB gain and with separate vertical and horizontal feed lines using low loss hard line gives me options of H, V, and x-pol use. This gives me all polarity choices depending on what seems to work based on conditions. Meteor scatter experimentation will be another area of interest. All the other inputs from you and others are appreciated too. Thanks 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Any EME gurus with the XV-144 monitoring?
I'm laying out and gather up the parts needed to use of a XV-144 with my K3 for EME applications. Since my aim is towards JT65, is there anyone on the Reflector who's done it and found need to do a modification to the local oscillator in the XV-144 to enhance the frequency stability? The K3 has the TXCO option. The 10 MHz reference using a GPS reference seems necessary but I hope a GPS discipline is kill. The output linearity on transmit should be ok but I'll be needing to have an IPA plus PA chain without IMD growth as well and I'd like to know how the EME boys are dealing with this side of their configurations. Thanks, John, W1QS John __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Any EME gurus with the XV-144 monitoring?
Colin Thank you. I plan to add the OCXO option. A phase lock loop with a common reference might be needed to stay within 3 or 4 Hz. I know some are using a Trimble Thunderbolt disciplined reference but it would be interesting to know how the configuration. I'm looking for EME ops who can fill me in on their configuration with the XV-144 and K3. 73, John, W1QS -Original Message- From: Colin Haig (VE3MSC) ve3...@cogeco.ca To: 'John Lawrence' j123...@aol.com; elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tue, Mar 25, 2014 2:16 pm Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Any EME gurus with the XV-144 monitoring? John - Get the OCXO for $49 for the XV. It helps a lot. Mine is always powered (heated), and also, I used real heatsink goo between the PA module in the XV and the case bottom, as the thin sheet of conductive stuff didn't work well. I've thought about some kind of PLL, but wondering what folks have cooked up for that. Colin VE3MSC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of John Lawrence Sent: March 25, 2014 11:44 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Any EME gurus with the XV-144 monitoring? I'm laying out and gather up the parts needed to use of a XV-144 with my K3 for EME applications. Since my aim is towards JT65, is there anyone on the Reflector who's done it and found need to do a modification to the local oscillator in the XV-144 to enhance the frequency stability? The K3 has the TXCO option. The 10 MHz reference using a GPS reference seems necessary but I hope a GPS discipline is kill. The output linearity on transmit should be ok but I'll be needing to have an IPA plus PA chain without IMD growth as well and I'd like to know how the EME boys are dealing with this side of their configurations. Thanks, John, W1QS John __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to ve3...@cogeco.ca __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] RF Concepts Alpha 8410 Users?
Are there any Elecraft folks who also have an Alpha 8410 amplifier? I'm trying to find you. I've had mine for three months and use it daily with under 50 watts to get the full 1500 output. It's very linear and can handle the full duty cycle found with PSK 31 or RTTY. 73 John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Using NORM 12 for K3 Bandwidth settings of Filters and DSP in each mode except FM
Fred The detailed explanation fills in a key missing detail that I'd not seen printed anywhere before. NCCC's Fred Jensen , thank you for the following: To save your particular settings to a preset, set I/II [your choice] by HOLDING the knob, and set the radio up as you wish. They're saved. If you toggle to the other preset and do other things, the configuration will re-appear the next time you toggle to back the first preset. The NORM function [HOLDING the LO/SHIFT knob] will normalize the DSP and roofing filter settings depending on mode. There are two NORM's, creatively named NORM 1 and NORM 2. Choose your desired DSP BW for CW and SSB. HOLD NORM until until - SAV - appears. Without releasing the knob, rotate it counter-clockwise just a little to save the settings to NORM 1, clockwise to save to NORM 2. To get NORM 1 or NORM 2 back, HOLD NORM until - NOR - appears, and without releasing the knob, rotate it slightly counter-clockwise [NORM 1] or clockwise [NORM 2]. When you have NORMalized the radio, two little wings will appear at the ends of the DSP display slanting downward to indicate that you're set up in one of your 2 normalized settings. They will go away as soon as you change DSP settings. Hope this helps the original questioner. If you don't have Fred's book, don't wait, get it. I've never found much use for the presets and NORM, I suspect I'm not real creative with my radio. :-) I'll bet, since Elecraft is in NCCC territory, they test for knob knowledge to become a member. KB!! I'd been comparing notes on Knob Knowledge with my friend Ron and could'nt make this one function so I could figure out applications of hte feature. I can see low band CW contesting with one set of settings and another wider setting for the higher bands especially while multiplier nunting. I'm always interesting in more thoughts. John, W1QS, ex N6JL __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Don's comments on ESSB and AM
Tim, M0AFJ AM operation here is made up by a niche of interesting guys who are enjoying the hobby just like the antique auto folks. The group here is made up of mostly long term retired hams who are having FUN with AM. Being able to join in with a K3 on AM is just another example of the flexibility of this great radio. And yes, the K3 offers outstanding AM quality over the air. Thanks 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Don's comments on ESSB and AM
Don I agree with you both physiologically and technically about the ESSB and AM modes on the amateur radio bands. However, we have K3 radios that are configured to support all these modes. For that reason (IMHO), I believe it's important that they be properly supported and maintained by Elecraft or dropped as supported modes. There are at least two popular radios made by competitors that have attracted a portion of customers by offering ESSB as a mode. And there are groupies running AM especially on 160 meters, some with K3s. There are also broadcasters running ESSB in growing numbers with the FLEX and Yaseu 3000/5000 radios. I hear them often. Why? I don't get it but its real. The owner base of K3 users tend represent those who want to experienment and operate with all that's possible. The K3 can do that and play well in the company of the alternatives. 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 is an SDR?
Don As I'd expect, you did a beautiful job summarizing the difference between the K3 and KX3 design architecture. I'd call the K3 a hybrid SDR and the KX3 a true SDR? What's interesting to me comes from looking at the leap forward in component technology to make direct SDR from RF possible. This is the evolution in the chip level devices it takes to gain this single step conversion to baseband. Faster and more agile DSP, A/D and D/A etc ICs are at the heart of the step forward between the K3 and KX3. The companies producing these chips were at my fingertips back in the days 10 to 20 years ago. Then they were only able to make it to lower frequency IF stages with costly designs only found in the top high tech applications such as those found in government surveillance. Back then Burr Brown, Analog Devices, Texas Instruments, Motorola, Lucent/Bell Labs were working hard with competitive designs. Semiconductor foundry geometries were heading for half micron on 4 or 6 silicon back then. The software development tools allowing greater coding efficiencies is another area that has played a major roll to bring us to this point. And, his was all done within our free enterprise environment by private/public capitalized US businesses. Happy Holidays John, W1QS Waldoboro, Maine __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Speaking of comprehensive owners manuals – Check out the new K3 manual by KE7X
As Don, W3FPR has just suggested, a comprehensive owners manual for the K2 would be nice to have. As a model, the newly released “The Elecraft K3” Design, Configuration, and Operation by Fred Cady, KE7X is a great example to follow. Fred did a great job and should be and bought by all K3 owners. It covers the P3 too. It contains lots of graphics diagrams and schematics plus its 288 pages is bound just like the Elecraft manual I bought my copy through Lulu.com and received it here in Maine via regular mail in just 4 days. Thank you Fred. How about doing a K2 manual? 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] RE K3's NR feature
After working lots of low band and 6 meter weak DX I fully concur with the latest reviews covering the NR feature and its ability to reach into wide varieties of QRN and pull out the signals. I will add that when using this feature for weak signal DXing, increasing the bandpass filtering allows the the DSP to produce improved signal detection thru/in the noise. At the same time, it also helps if there is less adjacent frequency QRM giving when listening down deep using this DSP based feature. When I narrow up the receiver bandwidth there is less chance of seeing NR improvement. 73, John, W1QS K3 S/N 2274 K2 S/N 47xx __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Mobile mounting for K2 and/or K3
I'm looking for any ideas for a source to mount the K2 or K3 in the Ford F250 PU in the middle on the transmission hump. Ideally, a non-intrusive (to the radio housing) bracket arrangement to hold the radio so it can sit behind the shift up against the front seat at a slight angle. Without making custom brackets, is there anything out in the market that would work? I could mount the radio horizontally on to a laptop pedestal but they take up more room and are expensive. Thanks for sharing ideas 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 with Heil HC-5
I've settled down on the HC-5 as the best sounding SSB TX audio. It was after spending the time to determine that this was the right answer for the K3. The TX equalizer should be tailored based on your own voice to give it the best fidelity. Because of my great audio, I get asked what mic I'm using on many occasions. Mic Gain setting:19 Compression setting: 24 Good luck 73, John, W!QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Heil Goldline Mics
I've been using the Heil Goldline GM-5 for about a year. It contains two elements that can be toggled with a switch mounted in the lower half of the mic body. The switch makes the HC-5 and a broadcast type dynamic element in the base easily selectable. The GM-4 is the same except it contains the HC-4 instead of the HC-5. The cable option for the Kenwood is plug and play for the K2 and K3 radios. The K3 is simple to configure for the microphone. I started with two TX audio equalizer settings, one for the dynamic and the other for the HC-5. I also have an older Kenwood mic with the HC-4 that was used during initial testing on the K-3. After a few months of trying various combinations of equalizer, mic gain and compression settings, I came to a final arrangement which I only use. Over and over, it is reported that my audio sounds super. The settings are: Mic gain=20, Comp=24, TX Equalizer= flat with 6 dB boast. K3 Config= Mic Low Z, Bias off The broadcast mic requires different settings but it wasn't ever close to the HC-5 for best fidelity and “undistorted” punch. The HC-4 is almost the same but lacks fidelity. Each user should experiment a little to match your own voice characteristics. After 18 months of use my K3 still measures up to all my expectations. 73, John, W1QS s/n 2274 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 Quick Split Revisited - One more time
Now that I've been using the K3 for about one year I find CW DX operation to be even better with the K3. When first starting out with the K3 I'd preferred using the two VFO approach with all split operation on CW. However, now it's clear that the XIT/RIT combo buttons together with IT tuning does the best trick. It also seems that leaving the Split VFO operation exposes me to less chance of operator error thus transmitting on the DX frequency. A DX station who's working split UP or DWN 1, 2 or 5 KHz etc, can be spotted quickly by using the RIT button to check for the right transmit frequency for positioning your transmit freq by spoting last worked stations. In the CWT mode, with the RIT botton on I tap PITCH for auto zero beat and XIT tracks the receive frequency exactly. Then, with a tap on RIT it puts you back on the DX station while leaving you ready to call on the frequency where worked last. This is great for the typical CW split operation but on SSB the spread is often too great thus dual VFO Split is required. Cool method! 73 and Cheers, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] W1 Wattmeter SWR Bridge
I have need to place a remote 120 watt rf power measuring device out at the antenna site some 450 feet from the shack. I have RS-232 wireless connectivity at the remote location and would like to use the W1 to provide the measurement. Does anyone have experience using the W1 with the GUI software provided by Elecraft? Any ifo would greatly appreciate input from those who are using or have used this device. Thanks 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Contesting with logging software on a PC (not MAC)
I'm a return veteran contester with lots of wins using the old pencil log with a dupe sheet. I've tried various new programs attempting to gain a level of comfort so I might consider a serious entry into some contesting again. You should appreciate that I'd hate to feel the pain of getting part way into the contest and be delayed or loose my logs due to a computer freeze, lock out or reboot. For the past year I've been soliciting contest guru opinions and come away with conclusions based on inputs of the long term contersters from my past more active years. My conclusion has nothing to do with the suitability of the wonderful K3 as a radio for CW or SSB contesting. I'd use a basic mission critical PC with a 386/486 processor, DOS and CT to run the logging process without connection to the Internet during the contest. CT runs with the K3. The more recent contesting software might be ok but Windows is buggy and may crash during the event. Lets hope System 7 can be configured to offer mission critical reliability in the new PC platforms. Lastly, I find this to be mostly an off Elecraft topic. Happy New Year 73, John, W1QS K3 s/n 2274, K2 s/n 4204 mission critical = power supply with extra wattage, two hard drives with less than 10,000 hrs, shadow write utility and clean fan/filter __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] NR Revisited (trying again in plain text mode)
Over the past two months I've been enjoying weak signal low band DXing on good antennas with my K3 using roofing filters for CW (500Hz) and SSB (2.1 KHz) . My K3 has the latest DSP board and the firmware is up to date with the thirty-two(?) NR choices. What I'm finding is that the NR Firmware likes to see a wide bandwidth from which the weakest signals can be dug out of the in the noise on SSB or CW. If I narrow up the bandwidth with the optional filters I can't copy the signals as well. i.e. with NR enabled together a 2.1 or 500 Hz filter. I hear best with NR together with the 2.7 KHz filter. Interesting! This means that QRM must be considered as a secondary matter within the bandpass if the NR feature is to work at its best for me. I find different NR settings depending on band conditions and the ultimate setting varies with incoming signals. I've been working lots of JAs on 80 meters where the NR truly helps. The narrow CW/SSB filters are great but I don't use NR with them. Weak signal reception comes down to using the narrow roofing filters without NR. OR, just the 2.7 KHz wide filter with NR enabled. Yes, over and over, the 2.7 KHz bandwidth together with NR brings them out from the depths of ESP level to readable signals. So, why have the optional filters? I use them to get signals so I can copy them through QRM when the band is busy. . Happy Holidays 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] NR Revisited
__ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] NR revisited
__ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Tap Dancing with Split Operation
During these recent DXpeditions I've hear more wrong VFO transmissions than ever. What is this going on? Yes, some because we're all getting older and forget which button was tapped last but there are lots more than just this as the reason for the wrong foot forward in this tap dancing process. Since there is discussion about improvement for split and sub receiver operation I think the subject also should be reviewed for single receiver/transmit operation. Is there any way firmware could be added to prevent transmitting on either VFO, A or B if it were on set to prevent transmit (by error) on a known frequency where the DX is tranmitting? When setting up to chase the DX-pedition if I could set up my K3/K2 to not allow transmitting on an identified frequency I'd be more relaxed and enjoy the chase. I know that there are many DXers with different kinds of radios and are sure suffering from this similar problem in the feeding frenzy dance operation of Find, Tap and pounce. There should be a way to Find the DX, Hit TX inhibit for the frequency. John Lawrence Pond Brook Farm 455 Flanders Corner Road North Waldoboro, Maine 04572 207-615-2824 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] One last rehash on tuning hash
In answer to Joe Planisky, here's my rehash on hash. My K3 which is factory built still has some tuning hash but it's now at a much lower in level, doesn't move the s-meter (with or without preamp) and is only centered around 28000 +/- 5 KHz. I can barely hear it now. I haven't added the h/w mod. Because this K3 is factory built and never been opened, lets assume it is properly built with cables and fasteners properly positioned and seated. Eric's comment: The h/w mod does not really impact the noise at all. It is required though and is there to maintain reliable signaling between the main processor and the synthesizers when the CPU to Synct serial bus speed is increased with SPI=2. Its the change to SPI=2 that reduces the noise. I've read some conflicting comments on the need to make the h/w mod. I gather it's Eric's position that it's necessary to keep the signals clean between the main MCU and synthesiszers. Before seeing this latest comment I was left thinking the h/w mod would also further reduce the tuning hash. With all this in mind I can live with small amount of remaining tuning hash. And, this K3 has been running in this configuration for almost a month without any signs of problems that could relate to omitting the h/w part of change. Cheers to the Elecraft team. John, W1QS K3 s/n 2274 K2 s/n 4204 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] NR in the latest K3 firmware released yesterday
I find this to be a great improvement on SSB for weaker ones buried in the noise. With NR turned on to the F1-1 setting I could pull out the weak JAs and VK/ZLs this morning on 40 SSB. It truly works well without to much of the hollow in the tunnel reception. Turning up the NR settings beyond the first doesn't seem to offer improvement. On CW the improvement isn't that great unless I open up the bandwidth to the F1 SSB filter. With FL2 turned on to about 300 Hz the weak signal improvement isn't as pronounced as on SSB. I guess the question is to know if narrow band CW signals can expect the same level of improvement using any DSP NR algorithm? Also, the CW mode auto tune tap on SPOT is slick. I'll keep that. Nice going Lyle 73, John, W1QS K3 s/n 2274 K2 s/n 4204 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K2 Guru needed KSB2 problem
Help please I recently purchased a K2/100 with a number of options including the KSB2 SSB adapter. (serial number 4000 plus) It was sold as a good working radio and it checks out ok at first glance. CW is working FB but the SSB is distorted with the MH-2 as it was set for this radio with the 5.6K resistor between pins 1 and 6 of mic jack. With the HC-5 Heil it sounds better but doesn't product the normal Christmas tree envelope on my scope. This is not an RFI related audio issue. It's the same sounding at low power (5, 10 or 100 w) or driving my KW amp By reading through the KSB Operation Instructions it seems that I might need to tweak the BFO as a refinement. However I've found that SSBA and SSBC do not adjust with changes in settings. In fact, SSBA Level 1 mic gain is atten 10dB and no changes on the scope or sound in another receiver all the way up to Level 4. Compressor Ratios from 1:1 to 4:1 on SSBC show no changes to the envelop on the scope or sound on a second receiver. This test was conducted with both the MH-2 and HC-5 Heil but the Heil sounds much better. Both these mics work well on my K3 Maybe it's cockpit procedure. I may have missed some step in the menu configuration process. I need to get the basics functioning properly before venturing on into the BFO Optimization process that might clean up the muffled sounding audio on transmit. Any helpful ideas from some of you who've lived with K2's will be greatly appreciated. Thanks 73, John, W1QS e-mail: j...@hughes.net __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 VFO/RIT hash rehashed
Trying again in hopes that Hughes will not reformat my basic plain text to HTML or Rich Formating.Third time is charm hopefully and sorry about this... Approximately one month ago I brought to the Digest information on my six-month-old K3 involving noise generated while tuning either the VFOs or RIT while on the 10 meter CW band. It was at a level of two S meter bars where it peaked around 28000 and again at 28045 KHz. This also showed up on my receiver on 6 meters where it manifests itself as audible steps while tuning threshold level CW signals such as on the EA6 I worked in June. Although my K3 doesn't have 5 MHz tuning hash, there are also some that were reported. Wayne responded to me while on his vacation and promised to look into it further upon return to work in mid July. Since then I've been contacted with possible fixes after it was determined that the hash was SPI bus related radiation into the front end of the receiver. I was forwarded a pre release Beta Firmware version to try and it confirmed that their findings at the factory corrected this issue. I was also informed that, if needed, there are other simple component related fixes involving the PCB serial bus that will be possible. I'm happy to report that on my factory built K3 S/N 2274, has most of the hash eliminated with only the firmware. Wayne is in the process of finalizing all the avenues by which those who have this issue can resolve it. This is not a universal K3 issue. I know many K3 users who don't have this condition. Only some have experienced this and they can deal with this once there is a finalized firmware/hardware upgrade. I understand that this will be available within a few weeks. I wish to finish by expressing my thanks to Wayne and the Elecraft team who are handling this with excellent service and professional expertise. We are lucky to have such a great product Designed and Made in USA Amateur Radio high tech multi-mode transceiver. Cheers John, W1QS ex N6JL K3 s/n2274, K2 s/n4204 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 VFO/RIT Tuning Hash Update
__ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 VFO/RIT Tuning Hash Update
Trying again remembering the plain text without HTML or Rich Formating. Approximately one month ago I brought to the Digest information on my six-month-old K3 involving noise generated while tuning either the VFOs or RIT while on the 10 meter CW band. It was at a level of two S meter bars where it peaked around 28000 and again at 28045 KHz. This also showed up on my receiver on 6 meters where it manifests itself as audible steps while tuning threshold level CW signals such as on the EA6 I worked in June. Although my K3 doesn't have 5 MHz tuning hash, there are also some that were reported. Wayne responded to me while on his vacation and promised to look into it further upon return to work in mid July. Since then I've been contacted with possible fixes after it was determined that the hash was SPI bus related radiation into the front end of the receiver. I was forwarded a pre release Beta Firmware version to try and it confirmed that their findings at the factory corrected this issue. I was also informed that, if needed, there are other simple component related fixes involving the PCB serial bus that will be possible. I'm happy to report that on my factory built K3 S/N 2274, has most of the hash eliminated with only the firmware. Wayne is in the process of finalizing all the avenues by which those who have this issue can resolve it. This is not a universal K3 issue. I know many K3 users who don't have this condition. Only some have experienced this and they can deal with this once there is a finalized firmware/hardware upgrade. I understand that this will be available within a few weeks. I wish to finish by expressing my thanks to Wayne and the Elecraft team who are handling this with excellent service and professional expertise. We are lucky to have such a great product Designed and Made in USA Amateur Radio high tech multi-mode transceiver. Cheers John, W1QS ex N6JL K3 s/n2274, K2 s/n4204 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 VFO tuning hash
Toby Thanks for your thoughts and experience with the subject at hand. Wayne is on vacation and will take up the matter upon return. I will keep you message as a reference once we take it up again 73, John, W1QS On Jun 28, 2009, dj7...@muenchen-mail.de wrote: Hi John and the List, What I've discovered and reported to factory tech support is a very noticable hash noise while in the receive mode with any bandwidth centered around 28.000 MHz to 28.050 MHz. And, it is also present while tuning RIT. I noticed something like this after adding the secondary receiver to my K3 many months ago. At least in my case, the actual physical layout (routing) of the cables to and from the synthesizers, the reference and the receivers turned out to be critical and rather touchy. After a fair amount of fiddling I managed to reduce the hash to a point where it was below the noise level from the antenna on a quite, inactive band. Apparently something was coupling into and then elsewhere out of the shields of the coax wiring around the synthesizers. If I remember correctly, the smallish knob for the secondary RX was worse than the big main knob, and when the two receivers were tracking the hash was much stronger then when they weren't Because I do not do 5MHz or 50MHz, I can't really comment about these bands. vy 73 de toby -- DD5FZ (ex 4n6fz, dj7mgq, dg5mgq, dd5fz) K2 #885, K2/100 #3248, K3/100 #67 DOK C12, BCC, DL-QRP-AG __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 VFO tuning hash
Wayne Sorry to bother you on your vacation. Yes, thirty years of trying to get away without leaving the connections to business behind is well known to me. Let me put a cap on this for now by saying there are other chaps out there with the same issue and there’s one who hears a saw like sounds while tuning on six meters and it reminds me of my issue on 10 meters. I understand from some that you've been made aware of the findings consistant with my K3 serial number 2274. With increased fine frequency tuning the number of step clicks increases per unit of frequency change. As I see it this means that the noise is being generated after the encoder’s frequency divider function. It’s not coming from the raw optical encoding device on the VFO and RIT tuning knobs. The amount of this stepping noise isn’t just above threshold. It’s more noticeable than that and was heard over the telephone by your tech support member who received my call two weeks ago. Enough said for now. Sorry enjoy your vacation. 73, John, W1QS 73, John, W1QS On Jun 28, 2009, n...@elecraft.com wrote: John, I've noted your report of VFO tuning noise on 10 m, and will look into it further when I get back from vacation. Sounds like re-radiation of SPI bus tuning data, and this could be frequency specific. It might also vary with the type of antenna, ground, and other I/O devices connected to the rig. Usually atmospheric noise masks any digital switching noise, which is typically at an extremely low level. As Graham noted, a temporary workaround might be to use the DSP noise blanker, set to something like t1-5. This will have virtually no impact on normal signals, and is applied post-crystal filter so it can't cause wideband IMD. The DSP NB is quite good at removing low- level, high rise-time signals. NB settings are stored per-band, and you can also save the on/off status on a per-band basis by setting CONFIG:NB SAVE to YES. 73, Wayne N6KR On Jun 27, 2009, g3...@lineone.net wrote: This noise was previously reported under the title K3 Tuning encoder pulses and birdie problem In my case it is only noticeable at the low end of 28MHz when there is a low noise level from the antenna or with a dummy load attached. Wayne suggested using the noise blanker on a low setting like t1-5, also tightening screws and tmp cables may help. In my case it seemed to get better when I installed the KRX3, but maybe cos I tightened up the screws and cables. HTH Graham __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 VFO tuning hash
Graham I value your input on my VFO hash issue. Of all the responses yours seems to best match my situation. I bought my radio factory built and have never been into it. When I retired last year, I meant it. I bought this K3 in December hoping not to ever open any more radios. I prefer the operating and doing the antenna builting part of the hobby. The last two years of work were with the Motorola VHF/UHF CDMs and their Canopy microwave radios and that was to be the end of tweaking the inner parts of the circuits. Programing radios is fine but dealing with surface mount boards and their interconnects requires more lab than I have here at home. I guess I will wait for solid factory direction before I venture inside for the first time. You know, having not built my K3 leaves me at quite a disadvantage if I should start now by dealing with the inside workings of the radio. I've seen this kind of noise on early radios. It makes sense that a optical encoder digital device on the VFO knob would generate this kind of pulse noise. I gather that the RIT knob is also an encoder too. But why is it only showing up on the low end of 10 meters? Maybe some ferrite chokes on the ribbon cable/wires would suppress the emission? Thanks again 73, John, W1QS On Jun 27, 2009, g3...@lineone.net wrote: This noise was previously reported under the title K3 Tuning encoder pulses and birdie problem In my case it is only noticeable at the low end of 28MHz when there is a low noise level from the antenna or with a dummy load attached. Wayne suggested using the noise blanker on a low setting like t1-5, also tightening screws and tmp cables may help. In my case it seemed to get better when I installed the KRX3, but maybe cos I tightened up the screws and cables. HTH Graham - Original Message - From: John Lawrence j...@hughes.net . What I've discovered and reported to factory tech support is a very noticable hash noise while in the receive mode with any bandwidth centered around 28.000 MHz to 28.050 MHz. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 VFO tuning hash
Now that 6 and 10 meters have been open to Europe and Africa, I frequent these bands for the first time in the six months of owning a factory built K3 radio. What I've discovered and reported to factory tech support is a very noticable hash noise while in the receive mode with any bandwidth centered around 28.000 MHz to 28.050 MHz. And, it is also present while tuning RIT. It sounds like synthesizer switching noise and its repetition rate increses when the VFO is set to fine tuning. I do not hear it on any other band. I also don't hear it over the entire 10 meter band, just the region as stated. Is this in other K3s or is there something going on that needs attention in only my radio? I called factory tech support over a week ago. Since they have not come up with an answer it seemed time to open it up to a wider group of users. Thanks 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 VFO tuning hash
Cookie Thanks for you response. I have this noise into an open, short and 50 ohm load. I believe it's coming from the K3 itself. If you study how a synthesiser works with it's phase locked circuitry, it's highly likely to be the source. However, I haven't don a scope probe on the output of the circuit to know for sure. 73, John W1QS, ex N6JL On Jun 26, 2009, wrco...@flash.net wrote: John, I spend a lot of time on ten and a fair amount on six. I usually operate CW with most of my activity around 28.05. I hear some noise on ten meters occasionally when the band opens which I attribute to broad band interference coming in on skip. It varies with beam heading, but not with any tuning parameters. I have speculated that it may be a Broad Band over Power Line artifact, but I can't confirm that. Does your noise go away if you switch to a dummy load, or change your beam heading? Willis 'Cookie' Cooke K5EWJ --- On Fri, 6/26/09, John Lawrence j...@hughes.net wrote: From: John Lawrence j...@hughes.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3 VFO tuning hash To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Friday, June 26, 2009, 10:20 AM Now that 6 and 10 meters have been open to Europe and Africa, I frequent these bands for the first time in the six months of owning a factory built K3 radio. What I've discovered and reported to factory tech support is a very noticable hash noise while in the receive mode with any bandwidth centered around 28.000 MHz to 28.050 MHz. And, it is also present while tuning RIT. It sounds like synthesizer switching noise and its repetition rate increses when the VFO is set to fine tuning. I do not hear it on any other band. I also don't hear it over the entire 10 meter band, just the region as stated. Is this in other K3s or is there something going on that needs attention in only my radio? I called factory tech support over a week ago. Since they have not come up with an answer it seemed time to open it up to a wider group of users. Thanks 73, John, W1QS __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] New K3 Configuration Software and SSB DX Contest QRP
I've just started using the latest 2.0 version of N2BC's freeware K3_EZ and find it fills the my need for the Graphical User Interface oriented software to configure my radio. There are software packages similar to this for most professional instruments and test sets found in the electronics industry and it's nice to have it for the K3. Like all new Beta versions of software there are areas of enhancement that each of us would like to suggest but I'm going to use it for a while longer before offering my thoughts. The Rev 2.0 is well within 80/20 rules for a Beta freeware offering. Nice Job! However I've another learning curve funny story. Yes, I'm still on that steep learning curve having fun with the K3. Now that the quick split, quick spot” operation is down after the K5D expedition was my training ground, I'm venturing into software configuration and control options for this radio. Last week I set up K3_EZ to run on my two month old K3 s/n 2274. Not yet completely understanding how it configures the K3 and without this intention I found out something exciting. First of all, this proves I'd achieved proper setting of the TX audio giving it the clean punch needed to get through in a contest. I'd unknowingly left the power level to 3 watts not thinking K3_EZ would leave it set at that level after I disconnected the serial connection and turned off my radio. On Saturday morning I turned it on and started listening around on 15 and 10 meters for openings in the contest. There was some weak signal activity to the south. Using the ATU tap to tune the antenna and meter displaying ALC and Comp, I couldn't easily observe the power output setting. Yes, I was working weak marginal opening stations mostly 1 kw level contesters with only 3 watts! I went quickly through all of them on 15 meters then switched quickly to 10 meters and did the same thing. Finally my lights went on when I lhappened to look over at the external wattmeter that wasn't moving as it should. That means I'd worked all the Central and South Americans on the first or second call this Saturday with only 3 watts to and a G5RV antenna. Amazing! Who needs an amp? Mine is till in the boxes. Sorry I tasked some of the contesters by making them flex their inner ears and slowing them down for a second or third try at getting my reportMe? I'm left being thrilled with my new radio and confirming the location location location factor by this memorable 3-watt experience from here on my farm in Maine. 73, John, W1QS, ex N6JL __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Quick Split revisited (John Lawrence W1QS)
Thanks for all the interesting comments to my not so Quick Split post. At the end of the day I'm still left believing that in the Split configuration displayed with TX on VFO B and RX on the larger VFO A, that there should be a way to always display the transmit frequency and especially while transmitting. In fact, unless I'm missing something as a newbie to the K3, the transmit frequency is not displayed while transmitting on CW and may not be displayed in the VFO B area while sitting idle. On my K3 the CW text decoder is in the VFO B display area of the LCD unless I touch the VFO B knob. An option that would allow the CW decoder to be shut off so the transmit frequency can be displayed would be a fix that might wake me (us?) up before actually transmitting on an unintended frequency. The text decoder is a nice feature but probably isn't as important to CW DXer's during the heat of chasing a hot one. On SSB the transmit frequency is always displayed on VFO B thus th is issue goes away. The other split method using the RIT/XIT buttons does switch to displaying the XIT frequency when on the air. I don't like to use this split method because it's too quick for me and I find transmitting on the wrong frequency is a greater posibility. I'm sure to get it someday but in the meantime my appologies for keeping the LID police busier than I should. Being old fashion, liking to know where I am transmitting all the time is comforting. 73, John, W1QS, ex N6JL, ex K1KTH __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Quick Split revisited (John Lawrence W1QS)
SorryI guess my message wasn't clear. Sorry. I agree with your details on the graphical display however the actual TX frequency isn't displayed when in the conventional split mode. That was my point NOT the details on the "clues" via that little arrow pointing to VFO B and the yellow light for delta F. They only tell you that you are in split mode not where you're transmitting. Get it? On Feb 17, 2009, j...@w7brs.com wrote: When in split mode there are two indicators that your Tx frequency is different.Three actually.1. is the arrow pointing down to (B) on VFO B.2. is the SPLT indicator just above VFO B.3. is the yellow light over delta-f meaning your Tx and Rx frequency is different.You get #3 if you use RIT/XIT without being SPLITYou get #1 thru #3 if you use SPLIT-jeffOn Tue, 17 Feb 2009, JOHN LAWRENCE wrote: Thanks for all the interesting comments to my "not so Quick Split" post. At the end of the day I'm still left believing that in the Split configuration displayed with TX on VFO B and RX on the larger VFO A, that there should be a way to always display the transmit frequency and especially while transmitting. In fact, unless I'm missing something as a newbie to the K3, the transmit frequency is not displayed while transmitting on CW and may not be displayed in the VFO B area while sitting idle. On my K3 the CW text decoder is in the VFO B display area of the LCD unless I touch the VFO B knob. An option that would allow the CW decoder to be shut off so the transmit frequency can be displayed would be a fix that might wake me (us?) up before actually transmitting on an unintended frequency. The text decoder is a nice feature but probably isn't as important to CW DXer's during the heat of chasing a hot one. On SSB the transmit frequency is always displayed on VFO B thus th is issue goes away. The other split method using the RIT/XIT buttons does switch to displaying the XIT frequency when on the air. I don't like to use this split method because it's too quick for me and I find transmitting on the wrong frequency is a greater posibility. I'm sure to get it someday but in the meantime my appologies for keeping the LID police busier than I should. Being old fashion, liking to know where I am transmitting all the time is comforting. 73, John, W1QS, ex N6JL, ex K1KTH __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Not so Quick Split please
Well I'm guess I now qualify as an old timer with an analog mind that works well unless there's too many tap dances during the feeding frenzy of a DX pile up. Split operation when searching to spot the QSO with the DX station can give me a red face after I call on the DX's frequency. Not so cool! As a new K3 user I find there are two paths to follow when in this mode of operation. Split with RIT/XIT on VFO A This approach makes it easy with only VFO A set on the DX station and spotting by tapping RIT, finding the station working the DX, down or up, when found then a tap on XIT button followed by an RIT button tap gets me back to the DX station with TX split on the last QSO and ready to roll. Sounds simple and quick? Not so safe! Sometimes I find myself transmitting on the DX frequency in the frenzy. There are too many taps in this dance step for me and it brings on the over zealous self appointed police with all their powers to send .._ / ._ _. and/or ._.. / .. / _.. Oh my! sorry. The RIT/XIT combo dance is too complicated. I'm going to go sit down. Split RX on VFO A, TX on VFO B Alternative I've decided this alternative is safer and reduces the posibility of sending cw on the DX frequency. Spoting the QSO before sending requires two taps on the A/B button. But quick taps in the Split mode may also result in sending on the WRONG VFO or on the DX operation frequency. Thus my first suggestion after two months with my sweet K3. May I suggest to the Elecraft staff that a Human engineering change be offered for the 60 yo as a reward for being licensed over half a century. This special feature requires a K3 with a frequency TX inhibit feature that can be set for the DX operation frequency before the tap dance begins. Or should it be called Safe Split rather than Quick Split?Get it? Don't get me wrong I love the radio but I have too many quick controls :-( 73, John, W1QS, ex N6JL (76-08), K1KTH (59-76) __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT Tuner Basics
John, Your K3 auto tune optionwithin the K3 and the SB200 should take care of any amplifier input mismatches found on the turned circuits within the grounded grid amplifier. In more technical terms, the impedance range of the KAT3 should be adequate. Having a second tuner in between the K3 and the amplifier doesn't help. In fact, there are a number of reasons it will make the combination not work to it's fullest efficiency. ie network losses. The reason why you are seeing varying VSWR readings is most likely due to changes in coax line length between the K3 and amplifier, with and without the additional tuner. Reading the K3 manual it says the internal auto tuner can handle a fairly wide VSWR range. If you find that some of the bands are problematic due to the internal tuner not able to tune out the VSWR into the amp, then I'd attempt tuning the powdered iron core (one per band) on the amp's input circuit. I am a new user on the learning curve with my K3 S/N 2270 and this is my first post. It's an exciting way to stay young. If you'd like to make a schedule on 80 meter ssb to talk about K3 details I'd be delighted. In fact, I'd like to establish a Northeast OT'ers User's Group to meet on 80 meter schedules. What do you or anyone else who is interested in meeting on 80 meters within day time, (8AM) mid week availability think about this idea? Pre retired baby boomers and their children would be welcome too. 73, John, W1QS ex N6JL, K1KTH and KA7AB John LawrencePond Brook FarmNorth Waldoboro, Maine 04572207-615-2824 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
