Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Noise Blanking, all-mode squelch- any strategies for settings?
Hi Arlen - I, too, seek just such a general guide for using the various noise reduction features on modern transceivers, but have yet to find one. Transceiver user manuals are typically pretty lean on real world explanation - they enumerate the features, point out what button or knob makes an adjustment, but there is a paucity of explanation on how and when to use those features on the air. This is a problem with many other features on these radios. Moreover, the manuals rarely explain how an one feature relates to the another noise reducing features, including the NB Noise Blanker, BW Bandwidth, PBT Pass band, RF-Gain, and other controls, which, when used together, work pretty well. Modern transceivers like the K3 have different tools for different problems. I recommend a detailed web search for articles and comments that explain how these various systems work, in general, and which work best on what types of noise, in particular. Eventually, you will assemble enough information to better understand how these features operate and interact. I have yet to find a single, comprehensive explanation in real world terms... and I have looked! Sometimes a combination of adjustments will get the click. Sometimes nothings gets the click. This research will pay dividends and you will learn about the K3 and other radios as well. In any case, there are no free lunches, these tools alter incoming signals, causing, in turn, some level of distortion and impose unwanted digital artifacts - hopefully resulting in greater intelligibility, but with some fallout or deleterious impact in the signal. You trade off one for the other, and hopefully don't go too far and make things worse, which is easy to do. Used in moderation, audio quality is sacrificed to some degree to achieve better intelligibility. The first thing you must determine is which type of noise is tackled by each noise reducing feature. For example, and it varies from rig to rig, but generally (speaking in very general and not scientific terms lest I generalize too much) - DSP NR attempts to reduce random noise like atmospheric static and general hiss which covers a weak signal. The NB Noise Blanker typically reduces repetitive pulse type noise like ignition sparking, and some NB circuits are geared more to reducing the heavier pulsing of radar systems, like what SW listeners call the Russian Woodpecker. The AN or Auto Notch seeks out and removes one or more constant tones, like when someone is tuning his antenna tuner right over your QSO. A manual notch does that manually, you gotta adjust it out, frequency and bandwidth are user selected. The PBT or Pass band Tuning control allows you to shift the receiver pass band left of right to avoid a problem signal on one or the other side of the signal you want. You get less of the desired signal, but maybe none or far less of the offending signal that way. RF-Gain can often be used to lower signal and noise (so to speak) and you end up with less noise and less signal, but maybe a better signal-to-noise ratio where noise is less noticeable against the resulting signal volume. You should research how each one works, on transceivers generally, and the K3 in particular, and EXPERIMENT with each individually and blended with others for best advantage, each situation may vary from another in some way. There are few concise explanations, so it may take some time to assemble a comprehensive explanation, but the effort will pay dividends on your time investment. Good luck. - K8JHR - __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] WRTC 2014 - Congratulations, Elecraft!...(and firmware update)
On 7/28/2014 8:45 AM, N4OI - Ken wrote: Perhaps this is discussed somewhere in the thread, but I am surprised by the lack of Flex SDRs in the mix. I would have thought at least a few would be there for PR, if no other reason. __ There is an article that addresses the earlier Flex products, which shows the Flex 1500 and Flex 3000 to be... well... kinda punk in the noise department. http://sm5bsz.com/dynrange/dubus313.pdf No doubt it would be swell if all radios could be included, but I believe this is a HUGE time consuming job mining data by sifting through all those old reviews and selecting the correct data, and then even more time to plot them in a consistent manner. I am not sure there is data on all rigs of interest, and the newest Flex radios revealed at Dayton have yet to be reviewed, heck it takes 8 to 9 months for a new rig to get reviewed in QST magazine. It takes time to test, and issue content is lined up months in advance. I had a piece published in the Nov 2013 QST magazine, but it has been submitted 11 months earlier. K8JHR -- __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] WRTC 2014 - Congratulations, Elecraft!...(and firmware update)
Hi Jim - will you be adding the spectral display graphs of transmitter composite noise testing which appear in the various product reviews to your summary? If so, I will help mine the graphs from the reviews, if that will ease some of the work load. I know that takes serious time. -- K8JHR On 7/27/2014 8:25 PM, Jim Brown wrote: I replotted ARRL test data for key clicks and TX phase noise. I'm not going to stop there, __ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Best Way to Make a 1/4-Wave Reference Wire?
Interesting project. My generalist, non-expert suggestion. There are many variables you must consider, not the least of which are the electrical properties of the components, such as the length, velocity factor, diameter, resistance in circular mils, inherent impedance and capacitance of any conductor or radiator, the effects of any dielectric present, capacitive and inductive coupling with other objects in the vicinity, and many other factors. I am a big fan of verticals, but I usually work in the other direction: I set the length of the vertical element, and adjust the length and angle of the radials to effect a good match, but, it sounds like you want a set, or multiple sets, of known radials as an ersatz control group, against which you will judge the effects of different vertical radiators. I suggest you consider and measure / record all the factors you can, and build a set of control radials for your experiments, and use them for each individual experiment, and see what happens. You cannot control or account for all factors, but unless you start someplace, you will go no place. Build a set of radials and use them as a reference, and see what you get... assess the data... regroup... re-formulate ... and determine what to do next. I suspect the guy to ask is Rudy Severns, N6LF, who is the guru of vertical antenna testing. Happy days, good luck. JHR - On 7/26/2014 9:27 AM, CRAIG W BEHRENS wrote: curious about and I to be able to see what the differences are in the lengths of antennas based on what materials of different types and sizes that I use. _ On 7/26/2014 9:27 AM, CRAIG W BEHRENS wrote: I'm fooling around with custom portable Vertical array antennas for portable and DXpedition use. I was wondering if anyone in our list Brain trust had a favorite way to cut wires to a (reasonably precise) 1/4-wave length. (Yes, I can measure and No I don't want to model, I want to field test and calibrate.) What I want to do is have an elevated vertical (say base at 8'-10'), and add a temporary 1/4-wave reference counterpoise wire with a 20-degree downward slope. Then, use this set-up to adjust whatever physical items I'm using for the vertical element to get a 1:1 match, calibrated to the radials length. I want to end-up with a balanced antenna that is resonant and does not require a tuner (given that I'll have some minor adjustments to fine-tune the antenna's match at different locations). So, theoretically, the vertical could be made of 6-inch diameter aluminum tubing (not likely in the field), insulated or non-insulated wire of any size, or whatever. I'm also curious about and I to be able to see what the differences are in the lengths of antennas based on what materials of different types and sizes that I use. Ideas??? Thanks. 72/73, Craig W. Behrens--NM4TK3, KX3, K2, K1 +++ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to jricha...@k8jhr.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] WRTC 2014 - Congratulations, Elecraft!...(and firmware update)
Shucks, fellers. All that does not add up. WE can rationalize this any way we like, but the fact is, 5 of the 6 best operators did not choose a K3, and I know least one other happy K3 owner used a Brand-X radio for the competition, and in all of his qualifying rounds. Logically - If you say the rig does not matter, and it all turns on operator skill ... then no one can brag about any particular radio used in the competition for any reason. We cannot have it both ways. We cannot say the K3 is best because 70 percent of the field used one, but it does not matter what the winners used, because after all, it all turns on operator skill. If the rig does not matter for the winners, it does not matter for anyone. So the unfortunate bottom line take-away is the top three teams used 5 5 ICOMS and one K3. Again, if you claim the radio does not matter, then it does not matter, and we cannot claim any victory for any rig used in the contest. That would be inconsistent. Personally, I think the fact 70 percent of the field used the same model radio is significant, although it may just prove it is easier than other radios to ship and travel with. Still... it is a big number. Just MY take. --- K8JHR - On 7/25/2014 8:27 AM, Barry wrote: I agree completely. The rig and logging software have very to do with the outcome. The #1 team probably has a sore back and sore arms, from lugging 7800s there :-) Barry W2UP Don Wilhelm-4 wrote Yes, very interesting, and I think most of the credit goes to the operators, rather than the radios. However, the fact that a very large percentage of these top operators *choose* to use the Elecraft K3 does say a lot about the desirability of the K3 for contesting. Whether that be because of the weight, or because of the performance and operating interface, you would probably have to ask each K3 operator about his choice. 73, Don W3FPR -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/WRTC-2014-Congratulations-Elecraft-tp7591534p7591572.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to jricha...@k8jhr.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT GENERAC generators
How much fuel do all you guys with whole house generators keep on hand? How much fuel does one need to, say, go for 10 days? Does everyone have that on hand? What next, if you run out of fuel... [--Note - not an argument, a serious question. I know lots of guys with generators, but I bet they have only one or two days of fuel on hand. What does it really take? Does one need a submarine-size tank, like we see in rural areas, to go the distance? ] -- K8JHR On 7/24/2014 5:22 PM, Edward R Cole wrote: We chose to add a generator to our home after a cheaply built foreign model was unable to supply even enough power for __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] KXPA100 Thermal Fault
I did that on two of my radios, and built a simple clamp on bracket to mount them without modifying the original heat sink fins. Cost of my project was approx. $7 for the fan, and $1.5 for some aluminum stock. I was particular careful to select fans with clearly stated noise figures. Not all vendors publish the noise figures, but those with less than 20 dBA are fairly quiet, and, as Don says, if you slow them down a bit, they will move a lot of air over time, and you will never hear them. I can provide photos if anyone is interested in how I mounted mine. -- K8JHR - On 7/22/2014 7:04 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Salvage a 12 volt muffin fan from a defunct computer and put a resistor in series with it to slow it down. Almost whisper quiet, but it can substantially increase the air flow over the heatsink and keep it cool. Cost, almost nothing. But put a shield over it to keep fingers out of the blades. ___ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] UPS for K3
Good question, Jim. I believe you are correct. You might investigate power conditioning equipment for protection from both surge and sag and transients, and they appear to provide add some degree of regulation. Furhman is a respected power conditioning brand for gear that is used in recording studios and with rock bands and doubtless there are others. - James -K8JHR - On 7/21/2014 12:26 PM, Jim Lowman wrote: But, what about surge suppression for our shack equipment? Or is this a silly question? Are we more susceptible to damage from lightening than from dirty power? __ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] First 4-meter QSO with KX3
Great first contact! I love the contact op's sense of humor - wondering what the prize for being first might be ... maybe he could receive one of those highly coveted, and extremely rare, free E-Brand hats everyone is clamoring to get, as a prize for being the first contact on it!;-) == JHR === On 7/18/2014 2:11 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: Peter arranged a test QSO on 70.190 MHz (SSB) with another station, as documented in this video: . __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 Audio: from OK to superior
Even if you do not like headphones... you MIGHT like a head-worn microphone which keeps the mic element in exactly the same position, regardless of whether you sit back in your chair, look sideways, stand up, or move about your desk area in the shack. A lot of what is thought selective or atmospheric fading is, in reality, unfortunate microphone technique, where operators look away from, or sit back from, the microphone while speaking. A head worn mic does not have to have speakers attached to be very useful in managing consistent microphone input. Just a suggestion. K8JHR --- On 7/18/2014 7:54 PM, Bill W2BLC wrote: I very rarely use a headset - no reason for it. _ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Headphones and extension cable - leave plugged in?
On 7/19/2014 11:39 AM, Barry wrote: My question - is it better to unplug the headphones from the extension cable when not in use, ... Or, would repeatedly plugging/unplugging it cause more fatigue in the connection over time? --- The plugs/jacks are meant to be connected all the time, so it is better to just leave them connected. I believe the usual culprit is a break in the little wires inside the cable, and not usually the spring clips that comprise the jack. They usually break close to where the strain relieve ends. One can usually repair them by cutting the jack off the cable (NO pun intended... I assure you) ;-) and installing an inexpensive replacement for around $1. The same goes for the plugs on the headphones, although the little cables on the headphones are typically much smaller gauge than that of the extension cable inner conductors, so they are much harder to fix than extension cables. I have no argument with the suggested de-oxit treatment, but in my experience, the jack is not the usual suspect (although sometimes the jack contacts do break occasionally) and the usual problem is a break down the line just after beyond the strain relief, so close to the jack we suspect it, instead of the cable. Shoot, these little extension cables cost about $2 or less at www.allelectronics.com so it behooves one to have several extras on hand and just toss them when they go flaky. I cannibalize them for the good ends and use them for other things when building projects. I took extra cables, an extra headset, and some odd connectors to my first time at the big contest station along with my radio and favorite headset - just in case I encountered any problems with my gear... and that enabled me to provide instant replacement of a flaky cable and headset on the most important 40 meter station, saving them from having to effect time-consuming repairs. I felt pretty stud because I was prepared and was able to solve the problem in a flash. So, buy extra cables and just swap them out whenever they go bad, tossing the good ends into your wish box for use in future building projects. Just MY take, anyway. K8JHR -- .. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 P3 SVGA - ?future firmware updates for K3/P3/SVGA?
As outside observer, it seems the K3 is more of a process than a product. I doubt it will ever be a finished product, with a static list of features and capabilities. Instead, one buys into an ongoing, organic, developing process. It has never been finished and likely never will. You either accept the process or maybe you don't because they spend more time developing features you are not interested in, whilst the one's you desire remains on the wish list. From initial release to the present, the K3 has undergone continual development, subject to updates, upgrades, and re-design. My friend ordered his before there were any actually built and available for sale. The rig today is very different from what he expected at the time he placed his order. As an ongoing process, it is subject to a myriad of vagaries and uncertainties, and (inevitably) disappointments that your feature did not get updated or improved or even off the drawing board. So, you either like it or you don't. You should buy it for what it can do on the date of purchase, not for what it might be able to do on some uncertain, unspecified later date. Whatever it becomes should be seen as gravy or as a bonus. As an outside observer, I believe the Elecraft management have intentionally bitten off more than they can chew so as to do as much as is possible, considering all ideas and suggestions, and implementing those within reach. They could have opted to close the book and rake in the profits on a static set of specifications. A unique characteristic of this process is that it is quite transparent, open, and shared with the consumer. The company could have played its cards much closer to the vest, and there would be no disappointment because no one would have any clue what might come next, if anything, until it does. Instead, they elected to take the far more dangerous, open course, and cut the customer in on the process. THAT is unique, but does open the door to some disappointment as one's pet improvement remains delayed whilst others' desires are fulfilled. I consider any future enhancement, upgrade, or improvement as falling into two categories: 1) mandatory updates to maintain or effectuate stated specifications (i.e., warranty updates) and 2) optional updates implementing wish list items for additional or different features or capabilities. The first type are required to comply with warranty obligations, the second type is optional and bonus to the buyer. As I believe the Elecraft management is sincere, it will do its best to implement all the category 2 option features it can, within the constraints of time, resources, and profitability. As such, while your pet update may languish on the drawing board, you did not buy the rig with that in mind, as it was not a stated feature when you purchased it, and you bought into a process which is subject to uncertainty. But you have bought into a process where management does mean what it says and is doing its best. I cannot see how one could ask for more. No one else is as keen on selling a process, ... just the rig as it is on date of sale. Just My take, anyway. -- JHR - __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] desk mike for K3
Beyond convenience, headsets have two valuable attributes: 1) Headsets position the mic element in a consistent position relative to the mouth. This provides consistent audio input - speech volume rem remains constant even when the operator turns his head, looks up or sits back in his chair, etc. I believe much of what is blamed on atmospheric selective fading (or the like) is really the other guy moving about in his chair and getting inconsistent microphone input. 2) Headsets are close-talking microphones. Because you are loud, compared to ambient noise in the shack, they tend to get you, while rejecting the ambient noise - a matter of stronger signal relative to noise. A desk mounted microphone mounted farther from you tends to hear you and the noise up more evenly. My only pet peeve with headsets is the number of operators who place the mic element in front of the mouth, where one can breath into it, and where it tends to pick up plosives - i.e., popping of Ps and Bs and puffing into it. The mic element should be placed off to the corner of the mouth, away from all that. A local guy on the repeater system does this all the time... we like him, but he drives us all nuts when he's on the air. Just MY take anyway. -K8JHR On 7/9/2014 4:41 PM, John Veach wrote: I do use a Heil Proset Headset with the HC-6 Element. just like having both hands free as I keyboard __ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 strange power surging behavior FIXED!
Oh... I see ... just another screw loose... ;-) == K8JHR === On 7/8/2014 7:52 PM, NZ0T wrote: The rig worked perfectly after I tightened the screws but did the calibration to be safe and passed with flying colors. ___ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] A Good Antenna Length?
Lots of guys have good results with OCF dipoles all over the world. I run a weekly nationwide net for a Brand X radio model using a 40-6 meter OCF dipole. I am the loud signal and I hear all and they all hear me. Of course it helps I am in the Midwest, but still, I run 700 watts into it and NO CMC or other problems. I can run more power, but don't because that is enough to get the job done. Power is not an issue on my OCF dipole. Best advice I ever received on OCF Dipoles comes from a guy who tested several OCF dipoles for common mode noise, and then found the right type of balun/choke to use. IT DOES make a difference how you build and deploy it. If you run the feed line closer to one side than the other, you get CMC. If you use the wrong balun, you get CMC. See here: http://www.dj0ip.de/cmc-test/ Using a proper DUAL Core balun - where the transformer is wound on a separate toroid from the choke wound on another toriod - it works fine and you have no CMC noise issue. Stop by my shack and have a listen. CMC can be a problem if you allow it to be, but not if you pay attention to what you are doing. Again, don't believe me... stop by the shack or join my net some Wed evening and see. (We don't care what brand rig you own - its is ham radio and it is all good) Just MY take. This antenna works better than the AlphaDelta and home brew fan dipoles I used to use... (although I cannot explain why the others did not work as well, they should have...but who knows what they were coupling with in my crowded little lot.) Happy days. - K8JHR -- On 7/5/2014 12:50 PM, Dave wrote: I tried a 40M OCFD for a while. I gave up on it and went back to a centre fed dipole instead. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] [OT] Jim's Dot Stabilizer
It is in what the keyer does when both are pushed: http://www.palm-radio.de/pdf/IambicPaddleModeAorBfunction-1.pdf == JHR On 7/4/2014 3:29 PM, Fred Jensen wrote: As long as the Iambic mode you replace isn't *my* Iambic mode. :-) Why is it called Lake Erie Swing? For that matter, why are there two Iambic modes in the first place? __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Ouch
I am thinking Don did not catch the use of a bias Tee type DC injector in the story... JHR === On 6/30/2014 1:36 AM, Michael Eberle wrote: Anderson Power Poles on the antenna jack? - - __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] RF in the Trees
Hmmm vertical dipole... vs... end fed half wave vertical dipole - not sure these are equivalent in performance. I know W8JI thinks the end fed half wave needs some sort of ground system-counterpoise to keep the feed line from becoming part of the antenna, so I am wondering - asking not telling - whether these two are really equivalent? (He said reaching for his ARRL Antenna Book...) I believe Jim K9YC modeled a true vertical dipole (including the n6BT end-loaded vertical dipole) - but I would expect it to work out differently from an end fed half wave vertical. The GAP antennas and Cuschraft R8 and R9 type are supposed to be loaded vertical dipoles, and are not, I don't think, end feds... but that is the question... are these really all equivalent? Certainly feeding at the bottom of an end fed would be easier from a construction and deployment point of view, so I can see the obvious appeal therefor, but then does it work as well as, say, the N6TB vertical dipole fed in the middle? Again, this is a question not a critique. K8JHR --- On 6/26/2014 10:59 AM, Doug Person via Elecraft wrote: The K9YC modelling with EZNEC http://k9yc.com/VertOrHorizontal-Slides.pdf is quite interesting. Certainly has me thinking about vertical dipoles. The half-wave end-fed looks like the perfect candidate for a simple vertical dipole. __ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] RF in the Trees
This guy comae up with a variation on the OCF Dipole that matches well on many bands and has been field tested in contests by a station in Germany. Lightweight, low profile, durable, especially good for QRP or field day operations. Maybe it will give you an idea or two... I understand the developer spent countless hours modeling, testing, re-modeling, re-testing, etc., until he got the right feed point offset to maximize low SWR on multiple bands, as if looking for the holy grail of antennas. http://www.aerial-51.com/ I have no financial interest in any of it, but if the balun comes potted in epoxy, it was kinda my idea ... ;-) K8JHR -- On 6/27/2014 1:40 PM, Doug Person via Elecraft wrote: Now I'm thinking of what would be the best all-band antenna for the K2 which is my secondary operating position in the living room where I can give demos to visitors. I'm thinking of giving the 88 foot doublet fed with 300 ohm twinlead a try. _ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] RF in the Trees
Short wave listeners use kites and baloons to hold up long wire antennas all the time. I did this long before becoming a ham. -- K8JHR -- On 6/26/2014 7:24 PM, Slava Baytalskiy wrote: I wonder if anyone's ever used a kite in a field to keep a wire up. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 - UHF emissions
On 6/24/2014 7:48 PM, Fred Jensen wrote: I need to add to my UK -- US dictionary: UK=Sproggy US=Spurious emission?? spoggy Sparrow (bird): Spoggies are the most common birds in the residential areas of Broken Hill. Compare spagger, sprag, sproggy. I suspect he means birdie ... i.e., as you guess. More probably from Down Under ... more than the UK... K8JHR = ;;\ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Experience with KXPA100
Er... um... is such a large voltage drop typical? We don't see that happening on Brand X amps using good power supplies. I understand the voltage drop when going from, say, 10 to 100 watts should be minimal, like no more than .2 volts. I have also seen this sort of power output weakness in some transceivers which are rather picky about voltage sag when running full tilt. I would check the power supply and try one that does not sag more than .1 or .2 volts on full power. I suspect the amp is good, the power supply not. Just My take. K8JHR -- On 6/24/2014 4:46 PM, Igor Sokolov wrote: it much depends on the voltage of the power supply and voltage drop on the feeding wires. The voltage drop at this power is about 1.2 V according to KX3 meter. The voltage meter of KX3 shows then 11.1 V at that power. IMHO KXPA100 is pretty sensitive to voltage of the power supply. / __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Way OT - The Metric System is Inevitable
ER... um... ah... I have nothing to add to the metric system deal...BUT AS LONG AS EVERYONE IS OFF TOPIC and saying what they are imbibing this evening, I might as well join in, MAKE A TOAST AND DRINK to everybody's good health ! Thus, I am enjoying a double shot of superb George T. Stagg Straight Ky Bourbon, uncut, unfiltered, barrel proofed at 142.6, dumped and directly hand bottled, hand labeled, and ... oh... so good, with lush toffee sweetness and overlaying dark chocolate, with hints of vanilla, nougat and molasses. Underlying notes of dates, tobacco, dark berries, spearmint and a hint of coffee round out the palate. Mmmm so smooth and good. So, good health, peace and prosperity to all! (whereupon he sips a wee bit of the bronze colored nectar, and heaves a heavy sigh ...) Ahhh. good stuff. 73 and Good DX to ya. I am SURE Eric will terminate the thread after all this! K8JHR -- On 6/22/2014 11:06 PM, Dauer, Edward wrote: Ted, KN1CBR (enjoying a quarto) From: Bruce Beford bef...@myfairpoint.net Bruce/N1RX (Enjoying a pint...) __ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] A product that would revolutionize ham radio
Interesting question... although, I have all that now, with my portable tripod mounted antenna (it can be configured as either an OCF vertical dipole or as a vertical ground plane on several bands) and my transceiver with internal ATU. The only difference is my kit needs a transmission line - WHICH I WANT TO KEEP, because that enables me to operate away from the antenna, keeping RF off the rig, and out of my head. Remember exposure to high levels of RF can be dangerous... A transmission line allows me to operate from inside my camper, or tent, or under an awning outside the camper, but out of the sun, or within a park pavilion, while the antenna resides outside, a safe distance away.It also allows me to place the antenna away from the operating position, perhaps at the fringe of the forest, where it is less conspicuous, and gives substantial flexibility in setting up a temporary operating position. My tripod mounted antenna can become either an OCF dipole or ground plane within a couple of minutes. I can substitute that for a low dipole or end-fed half wave or some other design in the same time. I would NOT want an all in one solution and I want the flexibility in mixing and matching different antennas with different radios, and would feel constrained if limited to one, built in radio/antenna product, where I could not mix and match rigs, antennas, and other components at will. Neat idea... but it does not appeal to me. Thanks for posting something interesting and off the usual trail - it is a good question, even if it does not appeal tome. Maybe someone will make a mint on it! I like business success stories! Happy days, OM. -- JHR On 6/16/2014 2:21 PM, Vic Rosenthal wrote: I am presenting the idea below in the hope that some manufacturer will embrace it. No royalties will be demanded! :-) __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Which way to steer a new ham K2-KX3
Excellent and well phrased question. It succinctly expresses my own observations. - K8JHR On 6/16/2014 5:53 PM, KC6CNN wrote: I have been training new hams to pass their test and get licensed. During one of the classes we looked at my rigs K3, KX3, K2, Drake TR-4. I was telling them how proud they would feel having built their own rigs and that the K2 was a good radio. It is hard to push the K2 to them when the price difference is so minimal between the K2 and the KX3. The KX3 also has so many more features that it is hard to get them to put that a side for the pride in making it themselves. What would you guys suggest? Features verses the pride in making it yourself. Price difference is minimal. _ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Which way to steer a new ham K2-KX3
Big money business types usually like to be told what to buy, and will spend a lot on a single recommendation (as they often do in business) and totally miss the fun learning about radios, antennas, towers, and accessory OPTIONS and CHOICES. Some guys rush through the process of building a station, which I feel is a big part of the hobby. Some guys figure they are better hams because they wrote a big check. My personal ham hero is the regular guy working man with 300 confirmed entities, running barefoot with a $1000 radio, and a couple of well made and thoughtfully designed home made antennas. He has researched and agonized over every aspect of his station, and never makes an unjustified purchase., He develops good operating skills, and can whip the pants off a lot of other guys running big power into big beams on tall towers. Having an expensive station does not, itself, make a good operator, any more than owning a super sports car makes one a good driver. I wonder how many of these big dollar suits will be on the air a year from now... Just MY take. -- JHR --- On 6/16/2014 6:44 PM, Gerald Manthey wrote: Yeah Don That is what I was just thinking. This group is a bunch of middle aged business owners who were feed with a silver spoon. I brought up used equipment and was told they buy only the best. Then we all walked out to the parking lot and my Toyota truck was surrounded by $50,000 trucks. Hihi. Okay they got the money but was wanting to teach a more hands on ham. We start antennas this week so hopefully they will want to make them. One guy already had a company come out and install a 50 foot tower on his farm/ranch. Thanks Gerald. On Jun 16, 2014 5:34 PM, Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Gerald, I believe the KX3 is the better general choice for new hams. They can get it in kit form so they can have the pride of making it themselves, even though there is no soldering. For those who are experienced with soldering as well as properly following written instructions, and really want to solder their kit together from thru-hole components, the K2 is an excellent choice. Yes, the price difference is minimal and the extra features offered by the KX3 (data modes, FM, AM, dual receive, etc.) make it more flexible than the K2. If the new ham wants only a basic CW QRP transceiver, then the K2 price is much lower. The other point to be made is that the cost of expanding the K2 to a 100 watt transceiver is less than a KX3 with the KXPA3 and KXAT3. For a 100 watt transceiver, the basic K3/100 and KX3 with KXPA100 are priced within the same ballpark, so you may want to add the K3 to your list of suggestions. New hams may not have resonant antennas, so an antenna tuner may be an asset. 73, Don W3FPR On 6/16/2014 5:53 PM, KC6CNN wrote: I have been training new hams to pass their test and get licensed. During one of the classes we looked at my rigs K3, KX3, K2, Drake TR-4. I was telling them how proud they would feel having built their own rigs and that the K2 was a good radio. It is hard to push the K2 to them when the price difference is so minimal between the K2 and the KX3. The KX3 also has so many more features that it is hard to get them to put that a side for the pride in making it themselves. What would you guys suggest? Features verses the pride in making it yourself. Price difference is minimal. Thanks Gerald - KC6CNN __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 jricha...@k8jhr.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 case
Whoa... for $30 ... super duper heavy duty. == JHR === On 6/12/2014 8:46 PM, Rick Miller - AI1V wrote: If you want something pretty bulletproof, try these surplus containers: __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Hard Case for K3
You might also explore what the music stores sell for transporting musical gear such as mixers and other sound processing gear, and see what might be adapted for your use. Musicians have been hauling sensitive gear around for decades. Look for heavy duty road cases. Good luck. --- K8JHR --- On 6/9/2014 3:50 PM, WILLIS COOKE via Elecraft wrote: A lot of people have used various Pelican Cases which apparently give good protection at a moderate price. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Multiple Port Issues
The Navigator is a complete USB sound card modem with audio sound card chip, six FTDI USB serial COM ports, a K1EL CW Winkeyer, to connect a radio to a computer using a single USB cable. The Navigator duplicates audio and control functions, and seems an expensive way to resolve USB-Serial conversion issues. I use a good sound card, and for substantially less cost, a mere $20, solved all my serial port problems with a 4-port, PCIe serial port add-on card, which the computer thinks are 4 old fashioned serial ports. You can get them for PCI or other buss types, too, but having four serial ports makes running multiple rigs and accessories a no -brainer. NO driver issues. Cheap peace of mind. The sound card handles the rest, without duplication. Works for me, anyway! Happy trials. --K8JHR - On 6/7/2014 6:15 AM, Jim Rogers wrote: It seems one of the most frequent posts to this list concern setting up, and configuring multiple serial ports ___ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] PowerPoles s way to prevent from plugging them in wrong
Heck, it is an even better plan to just turn off the power supply before making any such connection, whether it is a computer, radio, or accessory. But, shoot, this could happen to anyone in a hurry or in a moment's distraction. My most frequent connectivity faux pas is to confuse the little computer mic plug with the earphone plug, and wonder why I don't hear anything...;-) It took a huge dose of humility for a guy with his credentials to tell us that story. Just MY take. Happy trails! --- K8JHR --- On 6/5/2014 2:31 PM, Harry Yingst via Elecraft wrote: Note: It's a good Idea to fuse the power cord so that the fuse will blow if this happens. A simple preventative measure to prevent the cord from being plugged in the wrong way would be ... ___ . __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 MARS mod, showing a virus
... er... um... well, shoot, Grant... I understand the cigarette danger... but don't follow that bit about the Jack ... ;-) --K8JHR--- On 6/4/2014 10:56 AM, GRANT YOUNGMAN wrote: That’s like claiming those 4 packs of Camel non-filters and 2 5ths of Jack a day haven’t caused any problems … yet … ;-) ___ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] W2 Meter Question
Greetings - I recently assembled and installed the W-2 SWR/wattmeter. Background: I have several antennas. I have an A/B switch to select either a vertical, or one of several dipoles further selected using a remote coax switch. The sensor is on the branch with the vertical. I use a linear amp at 500 watts when net control for a Brand X rig owners' net. Question/Problem: When using the vertical, the meter works on the A side of the switch works properly. But, using any of dipoles, on the B side of the switch, it goes crazy and all the diodes light up. It only does this when the amp is on line. I tried re-routing the sensor cable with no advantage. Any ideas? Thanks in advance. = K8JHR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Outboard speaker for KX3
Sounds like a great ham radio project - low cost, high satisfaction, and that heady self-satisfaction that comes from the successful completion of a home brew project. Good for you. --- K8JHR --- On 5/31/2014 3:25 PM, Doug Person via Elecraft wrote: I built an outboard amplifier/speaker especially for the KX3. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Dayton hotels/motels
It depends on how far out you are willing to stay. Go to Centerville, Kettering, Beavercreek, or Troy, and you can find rooms with no reservation. You may have a 15-20 minute drive to the Arena, but that does not seem too far to me, most guys commute longer than that to work in many cases. I never make a reservation, just go. It is another story if you want to stay within a block of Hara Arena. Just MY take. K8JHR - On 5/12/2014 2:23 PM, Scott Manthe wrote: I must be doing something wrong, because my search didn't show there being plenty of rooms in the $50-$80 range: --- / __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 question
As someone said in another thread, adding an amp is like going from a dipole to a small beam. But, remember that adding a better antenna usually costs less and provides a two-way improvement - your amp can boost your transmit signal, but does nothing to boost the received signal. An antenna with gain will improve matters both ways. Now, I am not talking you out of an amp... they have their place in the shack for sure... I am only saying I would put an amp in the shack only after I had installed the best, most efficient, highest gain antenna system I could fit in my yard, before putting an amp on line. That will assure you the best two-way improvement, and give the amp an even better antenna to break the pileups. Just MY take... -- K8JHR On 5/7/2014 8:06 AM, Slava Baytalskiy wrote: Can someone please explain to me the rationale behind the KPA500? Why 500W? I'm a new ham (almost a year new), so please be gentle. '' __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Could this operate on a motorcycle?
Now I don't mean to sound critical, but is it somehow different for guys on bikes than for guys in cars? We use 5 watt FRS/GMRS radios for our MINI Cooper driving club, and we can easily have thirty or forty cars on a tour, and have participated in groups as large as 400. If cars get out of range, then we are either too spread out to be a group, or perhaps the group is too large if the front and rear cars cannot connect, or we cannot relay info. I suppose that is where knowing the route in advance plays a helpful part. We don't kibitz at every turn; we pretty much know where we are going in advance ... well... all except for Wrong Way Joan who gets lost no matter what we do. Is it so different for bikes you need such a wide signal range? We do multi state, multi day tours, so it it is not like we don't go anywhere, so I am wondering why you need more range than what a 5 watt rig might provide. Again...not being critical, genuinely curious about this. Might learn something to take back to our club! -- K8JHR On 5/4/2014 4:16 PM, rgconner wrote: 5w is not enough if we get out of line of site. 5w on 70cm works great 95% of the time, until we get canyons or lose line of site. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Could this operate on a motorcycle?
Interesting observations - surely a different driving experience. Thanks for the uptake. We drive in Michigan, Ontario Canada, and down in the Smokey Mountains, and mountains of Kentucky, North Carolina, and Tennessee, so some of the same terrain considerations apply. Thanks for the courteous reply. --- K8JHR --- On 5/4/2014 6:08 PM, rgconner wrote: Your passenger, which 95% of do not have, cannot effectively navigate for you, either. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Could this operate on a motorcycle?
Hmmm kinda biting the hand that feeds you, here. ;-) Considering your last three posts, you are kinda sound just a little bit angry we do not agree with your plan. You are, of course, free to buy the rig and use the radio as you think best, but it may be just a wee bit inappropriate to blame us for your disappointment that we do not think the rig is the best tool for the given task. Your condescending remarks are misplaced and tantamount to a lawyer impeaching his own witness ... sorry he asked, not because he was out of line, or that the question was improper; but because he simply did not get the answer he wanted! You impugn our knowledge of the application ... but frankly there are many among us who have deep insight into, and experience in, the very application you ask about. Good luck on the project, your club is lucky to have such a staunch advocate researching the options. Just MY take... Happy days, OM. --- K8JHR -- On 5/4/2014 9:10 PM, rgconner wrote: Hmm. What I think the biggest issue is that I am both a motorcycle enthusiast and a budding HAM enthusiast... although the shine is coming off quickly. Motor scooters come in 600+ cc now, they are as big and fast as half the motorcycles out there. BMW's C600 will cruise all day long, and you can get up and 1000 miles again the next day if you want. This highlights the difficulty: lack of mine and others knowledge of both spheres in equal depth. I know motorcycles. I don't know HAM as well. You all know the HAM as well, but there seems to be not an overlap with motorcycles so much. And, considering the spec this was designed for: home, backpacking, and travel. it sounds like another product: cell phones. And we motorcyclists mount our cellphones to the handlebars all the time, even small tablets. So I am surprised those products fair better than the KX3 in the overlapping home, backpacking, and travel. environment. I have broken 3 phones packpacking, so I guess the KX3 is out altogether if it is not as rugged as as say, a Galaxy S phone. My 2c worth. On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 5:59 PM, Jim Brown-10 [via Elecraft] ml-node+s365791n7588568...@n2.nabble.com wrote: On 5/4/2014 5:17 PM, Russell Conner wrote: well, the naysayers have convinced me, the Elecraft is not the radio for me for this application, and this is the application I need to solve first. A home station is a year or two away, if ever. Hi Russell, Congratulations on getting your license. The experience and backgrounds of those who have offered advice is pretty widely varied -- everything from true expert to opinions only to hearsay. Most of us own Elecraft rigs, and most have owned lots of other rigs too, over the years. I've had nearly 20 in the 60 years I've been a ham. Many of us own and use 2M and 440 MHz rigs -- I certainly do -- and I mostly use them on the road. I agree with the advice that Elecraft does not make a product to do what you want on your motorcycle -- for the short distances involved, I'd be looking at either a 2M rig if all the guys in your group are hams, or an FRS radio if they are not, looking for something you can fit with a suitable headset. As others have noted, the KX3 is a great rig for home, backpacking, and travel. That's what it's designed for. When you are ready for a rig like that, it's head and shoulders above the rest. Sort of like the difference between a Harley and a motor scooter. :) 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[hidden email]http://user/SendEmail.jtp?type=nodenode=7588568i=0 This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to [hidden email]http://user/SendEmail.jtp?type=nodenode=7588568i=1 -- If you reply to this email, your message will be added to the discussion below: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Could-this-operate-on-a-motorcycle-tp7588505p7588568.html To unsubscribe from Could this operate on a motorcycle?, click herehttp://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/template/NamlServlet.jtp?macro=unsubscribe_by_codenode=7588505code=cmdjb25uZXJAZ21haWwuY29tfDc1ODg1MDV8ODU2NDE2OTM= . NAMLhttp://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/template/NamlServlet.jtp?macro=macro_viewerid=instant_html%21nabble%3Aemail.namlbase=nabble.naml.namespaces.BasicNamespace-nabble.view.web.template.NabbleNamespace-nabble.view.web.template.NodeNamespacebreadcrumbs=notify_subscribers%21nabble%3Aemail.naml-instant_emails%21nabble%3Aemail.naml-send_instant_email%21nabble%3Aemail.naml -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Could-this-operate-on-a-motorcycle-tp7588505p7588570.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Kit Wisdom
On 5/3/2014 2:15 PM, Bill W2BLC wrote: as all I ever see are the old style paper ones. Must be from living in a cave! -- Maybe, but even a cave man can do it ! _ Anonymous ___ . __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 Chasing local HF noise sources
K9YC raises an important issue. I love my OCF dipole, but only because I was very careful in how it went up. My friend in Germany is making a serious study of common mode noise on OCF dipoles, and from his work I know you must bring the transmission line away at a 90 degree angle, and use a good 4:1 balun with common mode choke, or the OFC Dipole can be an inherently noisy thing - in fact, causing its own noise! I have a very quiet OCF dipole, but I was extremely particular in how I assembled and hung it, with a good balun-common mode choke, and making sure I did not have have a problematic length of transmission line, etc. Great antenna, I use it as net control of a nationwide net, but you must be careful in how you build it. If the coax comes near the elements, even just a little, it can become problematic - affecting SWR if not causing audible RFI. Even if you put up resonant half wave dipoles, follow Jim's advice and use a common mode choke. Some guys put chokes at both ends of the transmission line - at feed point and near the shack - and I know of no negative or down side from doing that. In addition to what Jim refers you to, in general, see: www.dj0ip.de and in particular see: http://www.dj0ip.de/off-center-fed-dipole/what-s-wrong-ocfd/ which is all in English, and the author makes the case that many times the 4:1 balun is poorly constructed or improperly wound to minimize noise and effectuate the proper transformation. And he uses 2 OCF dipoles, himself, so it can be done with good results. It seems that some things called a balun are transformers and other things called a balun are common mode chokes, and sometimes you need both functions, and how yours is made matters. So, read Jim's article, and the other references herein, and maybe check out W8JI's personal web site, for good information on this. Just MY take. === K8JHR On 5/2/2014 1:09 AM, Jim Brown wrote: First, dump the off-center-fed dipole -- it's inherently noisy. Put up some resonant dipoles (or even fan dipoles) and put a ferrite common mode choke at the feedpoint of each dipole. Study k9yc.com/RFI-Ham.pdf for lots of detailed advice on RFI issues, and how to wind common mode chokes. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] (no subject)
His question is ... Why have some operators sold their TS-590s to buy a K3? Only one who has sold a TS-590 to purchase a K3 is competent to answer and state his reason for doing that. I am almost similarly situated as the original inquisitor... I recently sold my 590 and now seriously consider buying a K3, but I am still on the fence, planning to test drive the K3 as soon as possible. Why did I sell my 590 to consider buying the K3? The 590 is a solid performer, and I enjoyed using it, and while my rig had no issues, I sold it because I did not enjoy the overall 590-ownership-experience, and although it is too complicated to explain fully here, I will say I was sick of too many other owners whining and expecting perfection from a $1500 radio, basing many complaints on unfounded or fanciful claims, paranoid delusions, and unreasonable expectations. I just got sick of it, and of being asked by other hams about this and that so called issue or problem I was not experiencing, so it was no fun to own. So, I bought a Orion II and now considering buying a K3, both of which radios seem free from that sort of nonsense. That's my reason, anyway. --- K8JHR -- On 5/1/2014 9:32 PM, Richard W Hemingway wrote: Hello everyone, I am a newbe and am selling my Kenwood TS 590s to buy a K3. I am wondering how many of us have had a 590 and come to a K3 and why? Thanks DIck N5XRD __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 jricha...@k8jhr.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] (no subject)
On 5/2/2014 10:38 AM, george fritkin via Elecraft wrote: Who needs two receivers when you can buy two complete radios (TS590s) for the price of the Elecraft - Cause the K3 does not have a transmit spike. Cause the K3 'may have better ALC operation (there are questions surrounding the 590 ALC operation... one reason I sold my 590 Cause the k3 (I think) can handle diversity audio, and you would need a separate device like what MFJ sells to mix and blend the two audio channels or keep them separate and that entails buying another accessory for more money Cause you cannot transmit into the other receiver by accident when you have a K3 with two receivers - two 590s could be tricky as you could accidentally transmit into the second rig and fry its delicate front end - SO2R guys have this problem Cause you might need two antennas or have an awkward time splitting one antenna for the two radios and then there is the time sequencing problem of coordinating the PTT on each one to avoid confusion or Cause, as good as the 590 receiver specifications are, it is not as good a k3 right out of the chute - the k3 is a down conversion rig on all bands, all the time, whereas the 590 does down conversion only on some bands under some conditions Cause the K3 occupies one space and needs only one power supply - you would have to buy a second supply for your second 590 Cause you would need N4PY software or equivalent to coordinate two rigs at additional cost - not that it is not worth it... but still it is something else to guy and configure and coordinate - linking the two rigs would be awkward I think Cause it takes up twice the room on the desk top to have two radios do what one can do by itself, and shack space often comes at a premium Cause it would be more difficult to take on the road, or to Field Day, or to the contest shack with the other guys, etc. I think that is a good start why I would buy a second receiver for the K3 and not get two TS-590s just to have a second receiver. Just MY take. --- K8JHR - __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 not responding to K3
I am a funny sort of guy. If you cannot be sure which cable is perfect - replace both! You have a $3000 Plus radio plus and a $2000 Plus amp and also an expensive tuner... Sheesh... I would get two new cables under warranty or bite the bullet and just pay up, and sleep well at night. In the mean time, you might do a continuity check on each one, checking it against its schematic drawing, to determine of them is perfect and proper and which is different from what Elecraft specifies as correct. Use the perfect one, and return the broken one under warranty, or if a generic cable, spring for another perfect one locally and get on the air with confidence. How much are they? Probably less than a pizza and a beer, I bet. Just MY take, anyway... -- K8JHR - On 5/2/2014 12:28 PM, Jack Brindle wrote: So, my suggestion. Use the cable with all pins intact between the KPA and K3. Use the other cable from the K3 to the KPA. __ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Wow... nice experience
I called the Elecraft Sales Office to head off a potential issue with my online order, and the gal on the phone was most pleasant, helpful, courteous, and (best of all) with it. I hope management will read this message. Happy days. -- K8JHR - __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 not responding to K3
Gotta love it! -- K8JHR On 5/2/2014 3:45 PM, Ben Collins-Sussman wrote: FYI, Elecraft is sending me a replacement cable. :-) __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Bluetooth adapter for K3 Audio
Does it have to be Bluetooth? Some operators with hearing loss have good results with various wireless headphones. My wife gets good results with Sennheiser gear. Sometimes using a pair of 30 dB passive noise cancelling cans will cut outside noise to a point where she can adequately hear the intended signal. - K8JHR -Original Message- From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of W0MU Mike Fatchett I have just joined the ranks of hearing aid wearers. Has anyone found a good bluetooth device that I could plug into the headphone jack? . __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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
