[Elecraft] FOR SALE - K3/100 and accessories
FOR SALE K3/100 S/N 764 Perfect condition / non-smoking / never portable or mobile low mileage / original owner All original paperwork, invoices, updated manual with handwritten notes. Heard many times on the Elecraft SSB Net. --- Current NEW PRICES SHOWN for reference only: K3/100 $2250 (bare) Options installed: KAT3 Auto antenna tuner / 2 ant switch $300 filters: 2.8 kHz 8-pole upgrade $130 2.1 kHz 8-pole $140 500 kHz 5-pole $90 13 kHz FM filter (for wide AM SW reception) $140 KBPF3 General coverage rcv. module $150 KXV3 Transverter/IF interface $120 KDVR Digital Voice Recorder $130 KUSB Serial/USB adapter $40 knobs updated from early cracking problem firmware 4.48 TOTAL 2012 NEW PRICE $3490 TOTAL SELLING PRICE $2600 including ground shipping cont. US Accessories for K3: Kenwood MC-43 hand mic external speakers, passive Gamma HPS1-a micro power supply Astron SS-25 switching power supply CW Touch Keyer ALL THE ABOVE ACCESSORIES TOTAL $200 IF PURCHASED with the K3 I'm selling due to waning interest and moving to smaller home. Windy Dankoff KM5Q Santa Fe, NM (505) 466-4280 windydank...@mac.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] FOR SALE - K3 and accessories
It's been a privilege to own such a fine radio but I'm selling due to waning interest and a need to reduce possessions. K3/100 S/N 764 2012 ITEM PRICES SHOWN for reference: Perfect condition / non-smoking / never portable or mobile low mileage / original owner All original paperwork, invoices, updated manual with handwritten notes. Heard many times on the Elecraft SSB Net. $2250 Options installed: KAT3 Auto antenna tuner / 2 ant switch $300 filters: 2.8 kHz 8-pole upgrade $130 2.1 kHz 8-pole $140 500 kHz 5-pole $90 13 kHz FM filter (for wide AM SW reception) $140 KBPF3 General coverage rcv. module $150 KXV3 Transverter/IF interface $120 KDVR Digital Voice Recorder $130 KUSB Serial/USB adapter $40 K3 update mods included: RXA kit K3AFMDKT Audio line out mod - spkr amp mod installed / line out, not installed RXAMDKT RX antenna isolation mod kit, not installed knobs updated from early cracking problem firmware - 4.48 TOTAL 2012 NEW PRICE $3490 TOTAL SELLING PRICE $2900 including ground shipping cont. US Accessories for K3: Kenwood MC-43 hand mic external speakers, passive Gamma HPS1-a micro power supply Astron SS-25 switching power supply CW Touch Keyer ALL THE ABOVE ACCESSORIES TOTAL $200 Misc. MFJ-949D Versa Tuner II Hallicrafters speaker BW low-pass filter 1.5 KW coax cable, connectors, switches, surge protectors QST magazines 2008-2011 Windy Dankoff KM5Q Santa Fe, NM (505) 466-4280 windydank...@mac.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 battery power
Steve, You can run the K3 directly from a battery, with or without a charger running, and it will deliver full power within the supply range of 11-15V. You do NOT need a booster to supply 13.8V. We had consistent agreement on this some months back in a similar thread. As voltage goes down, the K3 draws proportionally more current to deliver the watts you desire. That's the same thing the voltage booster does. It's another built-in feature of the K3. One caution that is not adequately covered in the manual is the importance of wire size. If #10 AWG wire is more than about 4 feet distance (8 feet total), its voltage drop may reach or exceed 1V. Keep it very short, or go to larger wire as you can determine from a wire size chart. Also, when choosing a battery charger or charge controller, be sure it is compatible for the type of battery, either sealed or flooded type. They require different max. set points. Most sophisticated charger systems have a setting or adjustment for the type of battery. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 That PowerGate looks nice however I was thinking about eliminating the power supply and running only off battery power. A trickle charger would charge it overnight. That would eliminate the power wasting DC supply. I was looking at the MFJ4416 battery booster to keep the supply V at 13.8 too. Steve N4LQ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Elecraft K3 Battery Boost Regulators
Peter, You do NOT need a voltage booster with the K3. If you allow a 12V lead-acid battery to drop to 10.5 you have just over-discharged it and have already caused it at least minor damage. Using a voltage booster to squeeze out a few more amp-hours will yield only a few more minutes of operation, and a disappointment next time you use the battery and find out its capacity is much reduced (permanently). The boosters are sold for other rigs that require around 13.8V (standard for a vehicle battery while engine is running). The K3 has a wonderfully wide voltage acceptance so it doesn't need that gadget (which also wastes a portion of the power that it converts). In the solar and portable power field, battery system controllers are routinely set to shut loads off at 10.5 (or as high as 11.5) volts to prevent battery damage. Electraft built that in for us! K3 ideal for battery operation with NO accessories. Just make sure your power cables are of sufficient size to minimize voltage drop. Incidentally -- Best longevity of a lead-acid battery is achieved if you normally discharge it no more than half-way. Voltage can only give you a clue to the state-of-charge, but not going below 11.75 volts is a reasonable guideline. This applies to deep-cycle batteries. Automotive engine battery should not be discharged that much because it will damage the battery, and you may not be able to restart the vehicle. Smile! Windy Many thanks for information Hector I have looked on two of the major suppliers of amateur radio equipment in the U.K.. and they don't appear to stock the MFJ unit but I will keep looking as it appears to get over the voltage drop problem. Peter G3UCA. - Original Message - From: Hector Padron To: Peter Sinclair Sent: Sunday, February 21, 2010 10:36 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K3 Good morning Peter,I did that test for you,I put my K3 to send a string of dots at 50wpm with 13.8V and 100W out,then started to drop the PS voltage until I saw PO drop to 50W and that happened at 10.5V,below that voltage the whole radio turned off. I am using that MFJ product on my SUV to keep the battery power always at 14V when I use my IC-7000 on HF mobile,it works great,I can even have the engine off without alternator charging and the output of that box remains at 13.8v. Hector AD4C For a refined ham it is compulsory to own a k3 --- On Sat, 2/20/10, Peter Sinclair g3...@blueyonder.co.uk wrote: From: Peter Sinclair g3...@blueyonder.co.uk Subject: [Elecraft] Elecraft K3 To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Saturday, February 20, 2010, 10:36 PM Has anyone done any tests of voltage input against power out on the K3 ? What I want to know is when running on a battery fully charged to about 13 volts at what level of voltage does the power drop off to say 50 Watts ? I see MFJ has a unit (4416B) to get over this problem.Has anyone any experience with this unit. Peter G3UCA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Is NR effective on ssb?
So the question is, may we EVER see NR comparable to this via firmware improvements? Is it possible? I too have been dissatisfied with NR performance in SSB. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 juergen schrieb am 15 Feb 2010 um 15:32: If you like experimenting try this product. I have been using it on the low bands for a while now, and I am very impressed. I have not found a radio with an inbuilt DSP that will beat it. http://www.ing-michels.de/hamradio.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Is NR effective on ssb?
Hector, What settings do use to get such good NR results on SSB? Windy KM5Q After hearing the three MP3 samples of noise reduction in that web page I can tell I was not impressed,actually my K3 can wipe out those noises better than that LINGUA product,I was expecting a better performance but I don't think I would spend over $200 US in that small box when I can do the same or even better with my K3 NR,there are sometimes that the same kind of noise I heard there,disapear completely after playing with the different NR setings,I am very pleased with the performance of my K3 NR,it really works !! AD4C __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 static electricity
Hold on a moment Steve. Before you buy a humidifier, let me suggest that something appears to be ungrounded internally as you suggest. My shack is in an unhumidified work space in New Mexico. I can generate a good bit of static if I wear a fleece sweater and slide just so on my office chair. I've zapped against my K3 many times (it's grounded of course) and it's never once caused a reaction. You might want to ask the factory. I think you have a problem. Windy KM5Q Steve Ellington Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:40:06 -0800 What can I do to eliminate the static electricity problem with K3? Every time I touch the main VFO (A) knob the display goes dark, audio goes off, frequency changes among other things. After about 5 seconds it recovers but somewhat off frequency. Just a little foot shuffling will develop enough charge to cause this. Touching the metal on the rig will discharge things but it's hard to remember to do this. Am I missing a ground on this VFO knob or what? BTW...The FP is only a few months old, new version. Steve N4LQ n...@carolina.rr.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 new GAIN knobs
Improved knobs are available now. After second time having knobs break, I told factory I would keep my glued-together knobs until they had improved ones available. New ones arrived a few weeks ago with a note saying they are now made of a fiber-reinforced plastic that is much stronger. (Although they look the same.) Mine are fine so far and I trust they will stay with the radio until it gains antique value. Windy KM5Q WAS: Re: [Elecraft] K3 potentiometer dead spots? FWIW I've just had another failure of the little AF knob. All four nested knobs were replaced already about 3 months ago due to the originals cracking, but one of the new ones has also now cracked and lost a chunk off the end. I think I saw a rumor here that new stronger knobs (with metal collets?) were being ordered - does anyone know if they are available yet, please? 73, Gary ZL2iFB __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 KAT3 Antenna Tuner Tutorial
Sure Bill. When feedline is wet, I alter some band segments by retuning as needed, as I operate. Then when dry, I encounter the re- tuned segments again when I encounter a high-SWR after I QSY. So then I re-tune, of course. As far as I can observe, that seems to wipe out the wet setting that was recorded at some nearby frequency. Seems OK. I just have to accept that I don't know where the segments are, and so I keep an eye on the SWR when I QSY (normal habit anyway). I'll await any more helpful info from the creators. I accept that it may be simple just keep doing what you are doing. It isn't a problem, I'll await any further understanding of the rules that the ATU memories follow. Thanks / Windy KM5Q Bill K9YEQ wrote: Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:09:57 -0700 Your feedline impedance changes when wet and the memory will change in the tuner. I would expect that is quite normal and a good thing! 73, Bill K9YEQ K2 #35; KX1 #35; K3 #1744; mini mods ATS-3B -Original Message- Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 KAT3 Antenna Tuner Tutorial Fellows, I'm not asking you to go off-topic with advice on my feedline. I'm asking only about the behavior of the ATU memory system after I've retuned a few band segments to wet condx, then condx return to dry. Thanks Windy __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 KAT3 Antenna Tuner Tutorial
Here's another question: I have a dipole with 200 feet of window-line feed. It works great with the ATU. When it's wet, I have to re-tune, then it's fine again. I've tuned it at lots of spots in some favorite bands during dry weather (most of the time in New Mexico). But on a rainy day, I end up retuning frequencies here and there. Next sunny day, does the system detune me when I run into a previously wet-tuned segment? Oddly, I haven't observed this, but I don't understand why. Windy KM5Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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: Clearing the ATU memories?
I just relocated my shack and extended my window-line feeder to my Cobra dipole. It changed the tuning. The ATU has no problem finding new combinations to retune on every band. However, I suppose I should clear the memories and get a fresh start. Right? How do I do that? I'm running FW 3.27. I can't find an entry in CONFIG to clear the memories. Thanks Windy KM5Q K3 #764 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] broken AF knob
Regarding my cracked knobs, here's the factory reply: On Jul 20, 2009, at 8:52 AM, Richard AD7FZ wrote: Hello Windy, yes we did get a batch of poor quality small knobs. I think most of them have been replaced but we are getting a new more reinforced batch of knobs in a month or 2. If one of your small knobs broke, you got one of the bad ones (problem is they look like the good knobs). I will be glad to send out a replacement knob or 2 if the ones you have now break. Just let me know. Yes waiting is your best bet, but if one breaks please let me know and we'll send you a replacement. Thanks 73 Richard Since my superglue is holding for now, I'm going to wait. Contact: pa...@elecraft.com Windy KM5Q K3 #764 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] looking for a paddle to replace touch unit
Duane, I like no moving parts. I have a CW Touch Tapper from: http://www.cwtouchkeyer.com/ Never had anything but perfect performance with my K3 running 100 watts. Windy KM5Q dw wrote: Hi All, My home brewed touch paddle doesn't get along with the k2 at higher output powers. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 Increased audio level with NR
I have to agree with Hank's comment below. There were a few comments back then also agreeing. At some point I was told by Wayne or Lyle that it was on the list to be improved. Yes, perhaps changing AGC or something else made it worse -- ? -- As it is, I use it only on fairly weak SSB signals where it may help without much distortion. I DO use it on CW sometimes. I find that it can help there the most. My mileage varies! KM5Q Windy hank.k8dd wrote: NR was a good feature about a year ago - Last summer at Field Day (DSP 1.78 or 1.81) NR worked great. Over the next 6 or 7 months it seems to have changed. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 NR Audio level increase
I believe Bill W4ZV hit it on the head with his comment, a couple messages back (ref. below) I was having this problem until I adjusted my RX EQ so the desired CW freq. was at zero or +1, and not higher. Now it's not a problem. Windy KM5Q Most likely it's due to setting RX EQ to positive settings for some bands: http://www.mail-archive.com/elecraft@mailman.qth.net/msg71174.html 73, Bill __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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 Utility for Mac OSX new features not working
I just downloaded the new K3 Utility 1.2.3.18 OSX version I downloaded FW Beta 3.11 through my Mac and it worked fine, as before. CONFIG tab showed up all buttons in gray, so I was unable to save my configurations, etc. I never had this problem before. I had tried it immediately after doing my download. TERMINAL tab CW Memories -- I typed in a CQ and it transmitted OK. I can't find how to edit it. Nor could I find a way to save to the Utility memory -- I quit and restarted and my CQ was gone. Nor does it record into the K3 Menu, which is what I really want. Is it supposed to do that? Windy KM5Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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: Optimizing filter offsets for SSB TX and RX
Continued from: [CQ-Contest] SOME THOUGHTS ON USING THE K3 ON SSB Reading these messages, I decided I should try adjusting the offset for my 2.8 8-pole filter from the normal 0. I have been getting good audio reports, but not excellent. Listening during adjustment, I found that as I reached -.20 some high harshness was reduced. I thought that would be good, as I often find myself cutting back the HI passband to get a similar effect. Then I got on the Sunday Elecraft SSB Net. I couldn't get many opinions because propagation was poor, but I had Phil NS7P give me his opinion. He reported the least distortion around offset -.20, and clearly an improvement over the 0 setting. So that's where I have it. It's an easy test to make, since you can transmit with the CONFIG window open. Ever curious, I thought to play with my 2.1 filter offset (just for receiving of course). I never liked listening to SSB with it because the highs sounded harsh. As I turned it from the normal 0, down past -. 20, it started to sound better. I preferred around -.40 until I checked it on a weak CW signal. It was making it weaker in comparison with the other filters. So I compromised and set it at -.27. I'm happy with that! I think this is a good discovery! Maybe it's something the factory should look into? Windy KM5Q K3 #764 Bill W4ZV wrote: After extensive experiments with tx audio settings in pursuit of perfect audio for my purposes - dxing on 80m - I came to the conclusion that for my voice with the HC-4, an offset of -0.07 with the 2.8 kHz filter was about right. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Width of AM filter
For those who wish to listen AM/SW broadcast, researching the Reflector is required to find out that the FM filter is the way to go. I suggest an addition to the 13 kHz filter product description, and other discussions of filter choice, to say that it is also recommended for full-bandwidth AM reception. That will help prevent people from ordering the AM filter on the wrong assumption. Windy KM5Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] EQP going on right now...
Sure enough! I just worked you on 5W Wayne. How much power are you and Eric running? Windy KM5Q K3 $764 wayne burdick Sat, 14 Mar 2009 11:40:10 -0700 This is a good time to exercise your message memories, folks :) (All Elecraft rigs have them.) I'll be dividing time between 40 and 20 m, near the suggested CW frequencies. Eric said he'd be on SSB. See: http://www.elecraft.com/Awards/eqp_2009.htm 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] 8 AWG adapter
Those short #10 pigtails need to be very flexible. You can go to a car audio shop and by extremely flexible wire by the foot. If it almost fits the connector, snip off a few strands. The stuff I got is speaker cable but I use it for power leads. Very nice. Windy KM5Q Use pigtail wires of the largest guage the PP connectors will accept, to interface between the #8 AWG and the PP connectors. Milt, N5IA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3: audio drops at bandwidth .10 kHz
Spotted perfectly on a CW signal, I narrow the BW from .15 to .10. I hear a click and the audio suddenly drops to about 1/3. S-meter reading stays the same. It didn't do this when the radio was new, but it has been doing it at least since FW 2.78. I now have 2.82. My narrowest roofing filter is . 5. Anybody know what this is about? Windy KM5Q K3 #764 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Terminal for Mac Users
Me too. Sometime in the past year there was indication on this list that there are a large number of Mac users with K3's. I was surprised how many, but don't remember where that was mentioned. Windy KM5Q Add me to the list of Mac users who would like the Terminal program for my K3. (I don't understand why it was left out in the first place.) Robert KI4ZHF __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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: A nice black cover to hide the front panel MIC socket
I got tired of reaching around the mic plug on the front panel, so I made an adapter to plug mic and PTT into the rear. Then I got tired of seeing the empty mic socket. I found a perfect way to hide it, and seal if from intrusion. It looks real fine! I used one of these black vinyl cover caps made for SO-239 connectors: http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1159PLID=16SecID=127DeptID=36PartNo=DXE%2DVC%2D0612 You need to cut a cap shorter. Slip it over a wooden rod. Using a sharp blade, cut around the cap to make it half the original depth. Now fold it part-way back to stretch it, and it will snap tightly over the mic socket. You CW-only guys should really like this. Windy KM5Q __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Dynamic Mics on K3
Audio reports? -- Join the Elecraft SSB Net if you can (for N. America, Sundays 1800 UTC on 14.316). Somebody will record your signal (and others) on their DVR, and play it back to you. You'll have a good audience full of opinions. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto: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] Reminder: Sunday Elecraft SSB Net on 14.316 at 1800 UTC
Every Sunday: Elecraft SSB Net on 14.316 at 1800 UTC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Calling the Elecraft SSB Net -- Reminder for Sunday
Don't forget the Sunday net. Last Sunday had 14 check-ins in 1.5 hours. Bring your questions and topics of discussion. SUNDAYS 1800 UTC on 14.316 MHz If you don't hear anybody, please call it yourself -- There isn't always a regular net control present. There's an Icom net on that frequency that normally clears off before 1800 and leaves the frequency open. Anyone calling the net early will help keep it open. I will NOT be there the next 2 Sundays, but carry on! Windy KM5Q Elecraft CW and SSB net info is posted at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page Scroll to User Nets ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net on 20m - It's alive!
Using the Sunday schedule of 1800 UTC, 14.316, I called the net (the lazy way, using my K3 DVR). Over the course of 1 1/2 hours, we had lots of activity and few discussions, ending with friendly ragchew. I estimate each station could copy about 2/3 of the other participants. Conditions were relatively steady, so it went well. During the hour before the net, there is an Icom net on freq., but like last year, they closed before the hour was through, leaving us a clear frequency. Check-ins today: KM5QWindy all using K3/100 except where noted K7SJRoger KG0KP Jim W0NTA Dick KG0KB Jim NS7PPhil KA5KKT Dick W7QHB Kurt K2/100 W3NFRoy WB2ART Ken AB2TC Tim KB4TZK John W8FUBruce KB0YH Gus -- off at 1937 UTC Thanks everybody! That's a big change from last Spring -- Lot's of K3's now -- but all are welcome. Nobody expressed interest in re-initiating the 40m evening net. 73! Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Calling the Elecraft SSB Net
Fellows, Several guys wrote to me wishing to see the net started up again. Last year we decided it should be a general Elecraft net, not just K3. So YES! LET'S TRY TOMORROW! Sunday Jan. 4 on the old schedule: SUNDAY 1800 UTC on 14.316 MHz If you don't hear anybody, call the net yourself please. My request: For further planning, I ask that other guys please step up and take over this discussion. That means YOU :-) Either approve or request changes to the old schedule, then help to kick it off. For reference again, here is the old schedule SPRING 2008. -- OLD 2008 SCHEDULE: ELECRAFT SSB NET 7.192 MHz and 14.316 +/- MONDAY THURSDAY USA-NIGHTS / 0130 0230 UTC SUNDAY 1800 UTC on 14.316 MHz You may need to tune +/- a few kHz to look for the net. If you don't hear anybody, please call it yourself -- There isn't always a regular net control present. Elecraft net information to be posted at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page - Summary: LET'S RE-START THE NET ON SUNDAY JAN. 4 Let's discuss starting up the evening net too, but don't depend on me. Talk to ya later, Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: Question about K3 nets
AD4C, Some of us started the Elecraft SSB Net last March. We had as many as 12 check-ins, but we put it to sleep after 2 months. But as propagation tends to improve, and especially with more K3 owners out there, I'd suggest reviving the SSB net. For current net information, go to the K3 Wiki at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page A CW net is active now. Here is the SSB schedule that we arrived at after 2 months of activity: -- ELECRAFT SSB NET SCHEDULE 7.192* MHz and 14.316 MONDAY THURSDAY USA-NIGHTS / 0130 0230 UTC (In Europe that's Tuesday and Friday mornings) SUNDAY 1800 UTC on 14.316 MHz You may need to tune +/- a few kHz to look for the net. If you don't hear anybody, please call it yourself -- There isn't always a regular net control present. Elecraft net information is posted at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page - Again, the above net is NOT currently active. If YOU or ANYONE wishes to activate it, please consider the above schedule and check the frequencies yourself, then post your wish to the group. I'm sure it will happen, propagation-willing. How to post the net info to the K3 Wiki: Once the schedule is established, go to the Wiki link again, and hit discussion tab on top. (Create an account first.) Then you can enter the new schedule information to be made public. The Wiki wizards will add it to the page. Meanwhile, in a few hours of casual SSB operation on 20m in the past month, I've run into 3 other K3s on the air. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 Question about K3 nets Posted by: catolico2008 ad4c2...@gmail.com catolico2008 Thu Jan 1, 2009 7:03 am (PST) First of all very happy new year for all the group users,I wish 2009 will bring to all of us health,luck and happiness and for the ones who still don't have it yet,a brand new K3 to fill up your dreams. The question is If you guys know any net for K3 users on the air,either on SSB or CW,I will like to hear other K3's on the air.Thanks AD4C ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 as a SW receiver
I agree with Mike that for occasional listening to AM stations outside the ham bands, the stock SSB filter in SSB mode is fine. Zero beat the station and it sounds OK. Switch to AM mode and it's too narrow. For tuning around casually, having to listen to carriers as you tune is annoying. The 13 kHz FM filter adds a lot of quality to the fidelity, and lets you tune and listen in AM mode with pleasant results. And yes, other Mike, bandswitching and VFO management are still problematic outside the ham bands. Windy KM5Q ___ 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
RE:[Elecraft] K3 as a SW receiver
For AM SW listening be sure to get the FM filter (13 kHz). It gives you the width you need for the audio bandwidth you expect. The normal SSB filter (I have the 2.8) is too restricting for AM. However, I find that switching mode from AM to SSB reduces severe fading and distortion, much like AM synchronous detection does (fills in the missing carrier). It's a good technique, at least until synch detection is implemented in the firmware. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 mobile
There are at least two ferrite core transformers in the K3 that are supported only by their thin wires. I'm concerned that they may not survive a mobile environment. It would take only a dab of RTV (silicone adhesive sealant) to secure them, but I don't know if this has been discusses or approved. Windy KM5Q ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Re: K3 noise reduction vs. Clear Speech speaker
Here is a comment I got off-line from a fellow who comments about CW (and I agree, though my comments applied to SSB): quote -- I have been using MCU 2.23, but an older DSP 1.81 to get a decent sound on CW. The newer DSP takes too long to sync on the CW signal and it sounds like very soft keying when NR is on and about F=2--3 or so. ... It brings the signal up out of the static, but destroys the leading edge of the CW signal. At least that's what I'm seeing here. --end of quote Some guys like it the way it is, but there's a lot of agreement here that it's a work in progress, and has even been in digress lately. I know the developers are listening and I'm it's going to be improved. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM K3 #764 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Nabble identity help please
I tried to reply to a message through Nabble. It asked me to re- register. I accidentally did so using my usual address, not my ham- call address that I use in these matters. It has my reply waiting for moderator, saying I'm not registered in the Elecraft group. So I went back and tried to change my km5q email address. It said that address is already in use! -- Yes, by me. So I seem to be registered twice, but I don't know how to reply as the Elecraft-registered entity. Anyone know just what to do? Windy KM5Q ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 noise reduction vs. Clear Speech speaker
Somebody recently was asking if anyone has compared K3 NR with external NR systems. I just did, again. With my old analog rig, I used a Clear Speech speaker (it has built-in digital NR). It is VERY effective at reducing any sound that is steady for more than about 1/2 second, like stable QRN, and even pretty good with less stable QRN. It introduces very little distortion to the signal. Really an excellent product. It has since evolved into another company's product, but I'm not sure which one. When I got the K3, I tried the Clear Speech and found it redundant with the NR in the K3, so I retired it and went stereo. Then, NR seemed to improve considerably somewhere around FW 1.88. I thought I'd never use the Clear Speech again with the K3. Changes again ocurred in the NR with subsequent FW versions. I'm not so happy with it. Even on low settings, it seems overly agressive. There is no setting, even 1-1, that does not unpleasantly distort the audio and make the volume unstable. So I dusted off the Clear Speech guess what? It now works better for reducing steady QRN than the K3. By better, I mean I it pleases me enough to want to use it. I have nearly given up on using the NR after upgrades of the past 2 months or so. I think it got better, then worse. All it needs to do on low settings is cancel out any sound that's steady. That was done nicely with a $120 product in the 90's. What's up, Elecraft? Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM K3 #764 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Paddle for K3
Pounders, I took my keying into the solid state realm, and eliminated moving parts. http://www.cwtouchkeyer.com/ I use this model, the Touch Tapper http://www.cwtouchkeyer.com/TT1.htm I prefer the vertical motion, the way my fingers move on a keyboard. And without heavy ballast, it doesn't slide around on the desk. (I put rubber feet directly under the paddles.) Performance with my K3/100 has been flawless. Kit building experience was pleasant. The company owner was most helpful when I had questions. You can even make your own custom enclosure. Look on the site for the funny one made from a D-104 mike head. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM K3 #764 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] BCB sensitivity [K3]
Mike, How do you tune the ATU optimally for BCB, since you can't transmit? Windy KM5Q Sometimes the ATU helps and sometimes the ATU hurts signals on the BCB. ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] KRX3 KDVR Install
Thanks Lyle. I have both KRX3 and KDVR on order. If I'm in no hurry, how much work might I save by waiting for the KDVR and then installing both at once? Windy KM5Q K3 #764 Santa Fe, NM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3: Firmware 2.10 NR audio gain
I just upgraded from 2.02 to 2.10 beta. Before, NR gain equalzation (between on and off) was such that when I turned on NR, I had to increase the AF GAIN to compensate for audio drop. Now, the gain equalization has been shifted the other way. When I turn NR on, the gain goes UP. NR is working nicely, but I have to turn the gain DOWN unless the signal is weak. I think they overcompensated with this new firmware. I would rather they set the equalization in between the previous version and this one. That way switching in NR will be a one-tap operation under all conditions. It think the audio quality of NR is better now (less reverberation and distortion) but that is a different subject. Windy KM5Q K3 #176 Santa Fe, NM ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Optivisor?
For local sources of Optivisor, try art and craft supply stores. Windy KM5Q ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K3 noise reduction
Tony, I have AGC SLP set somewhere around 12 like you. That isn't the problem. Distortion is the inevitable effect of DSP noise reduction. The higher the S/N ratio, the less NR is needed, so I end up turning NR on and off manually according to S/N conditions (on SSB). Someone else was asking for NR comparisons with other radios. I had a chance to compare K3 to a SGC-2020 ADSP2 (the late, advanced edition, highly regarded) -- NR is about equally effective, as is overall weak signal performance on SSB. However, the K3 has much more pleasant audio, with or without NR. I also have a ClearSpeach DSP speaker (purchased in '99), which reduces any noise that is steady-state, like background hiss. It's good, but K3 NR is substantially more effective. I still believe that there is room to improve the NR effect on steady background hiss. Nobody has commented on my description of my NR seeming to get worse over a few weeks (while using the same firmware). I've begun to doubt my own sensibilities. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 Hi Windy, I wonder if adjusting the AGC SLP would have an impact on NR processing? I have AGC SLP at 12 and when I need NT it is set for F1-2. Maybe a higher AGC SLP would cause less distortion with stronger signals? 73, N2TK, Tony ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K3 noise reduction
I see it the same as Dave. However, I've about given up on using NR. Strange thing! When I installed Firmware 1.99, it seemed to have improved! Audio level was equalized between NR on/off. And, it seemed less distorted. Then over the next few weeks, it gradually went back to (apparently) more distortion and definitely much less volume. Does newest firmware improve it? Windy KM5Q K3 #764 Yes, I'd hope for further improvement of the NR on phone. Even if it's not too effective I still nearly always have it on, but the radio powers up with it off and blasts me with the increased audio. It seems like it would be nice if it powered up with the NR in the same state it was before. Is this a problem for anyone else? Dave W5DHM ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 noise reduction
But the strange thing is that just after 1.99 installation, it really improved. It had been fairly good (for SSB), then it got really good, with volume equalized between on/off. Since then, I have NOT updated firmware, but it deteriorated over a period of weeks to the point where it does practically nothing now except introduce more or less distortion (normal DSP distortion) according to the 1-4 etc. setting that I use. I have not updated firmware since 1.99 but I will try that shortly. I wonder if anyone else has seen the NR performance deteriorate over time with NO change to the firmware. It's like adaptive in reverse. Windy KM5Q ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 noise reduction
Continuing from my previous message -- I just loaded the current Firmware 2.02. I think NR works better now, but I'm not really sure. In the process however, I found that I was being distracted by the more powerful ranges of 3-x and 4-x. For SSB, the best setting seems to be 1-3. Before, I didn't think it was so effective. The 1 range maintains good volume equalizing between on/off. Higher ranges cause too much distortion. Maybe they are OK on CW, but any advantage seems to be not worth the time to continue experimenting. For now, I'm going to use 1-3 and forget about the higher ranges of NR. A good improvement would be if the NR processing could reduce automatically with signal strength, to avoid unnecessary distortion on strong signals. I trust we'll see some further improvement eventually but meanwhile, I can enjoy using it on low signal/noise ratio conditions and switching it off on stronger signals. Windy KM5Q ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net -- declare dormant for summer?
I put out the message below, and nobody replied. Meanwhile, the Wiki site has announced that the SSB Nets are inactive during summer 2008 until further notice. Refer to User Nets header at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page So please be informed -- It is NOW dormant. Perhaps it will thrive in the winter season. There is no designated net control or manager, so when the time comes, I encourage anyone to take charge. Thanks to those who showed up on numerous occasions. Windy KM5Q KM5Q wrote: Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:17:51 -0700 Activity on the 40 and 20m SSB nets has decreased with the coming of spring. Noise levels are high, propagation is poor. Outdoor and family activities take priority. I'd rather declare it dormant than waste time calling nobody. I suggest we keep the schedule listed on the Wiki site:http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page -- see User Nets, but say that it's dormant for summer 2008, or until any of us decide to reactivate it. Any comments? Thanks, Windy KM5Q K3 #764 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net -- declare dormant for summer?
Activity on the 40 and 20m SSB nets has decreased with the coming of spring. Noise levels are high, propagation is poor. Outdoor and family activities take priority. I'd rather declare it dormant than waste time calling nobody. I suggest we keep the schedule listed on the Wiki site: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page -- see User Nets, but say that it's dormant for summer 2008, or until any of us decide to reactivate it. Any comments? Thanks, Windy KM5Q K3 #764 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3: overwriting memories? - Try this!
Like Tony, I also found it helpful to color my VM button, but I did it in a different way. It looks good, and I and find it helpful. I stained it red with permanent ink. I took a bit of cloth and wet it with alcohol. Onto that I applied some red ink with a Sharpie pen, then rubbed it onto the button. It still shows the label on the button very clearly - just makes a pink wash. I liked it, so I then applied red around the sides of the button where it shows deeper red. I consider it permanent, but it's my radio and I like it. Windy KM5Q Tony Fegan VE3QF Fri, 30 May 2008 20:18:07 -0700 I went a step further and put a piece of white 1/4 inch masking tape over the VM key. Not pretty but it works for me. It is just enough to catch your eye and of course when you really need it, it can still be depressed. I do have an advantage in that with poor eyesight it is not easy to read and mix up the keys! My band memories are set similar to yours Doug. I have my most usedfrequency in VFO-A and my second most used frequency in VFO-B. I operate mainly SSB but monitor the other modes. I have not used the band up/down for 3 months. 73 Tony Fegan VE3QF ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Bandswitching-My experiences to Date
I posted this idea on May 9. I got several favorable replies and thanks for it. I still find it very efficient, so I offer this again. There is plenty more memory space left to add data bands. - A complete BAND SWITCHING scheme using 23 memories I tried using the quick memories 0-9 to store band data, modes, filters, and other parameters (Douglas Zweibel's message of March 10). Then I thought about how most bands are split into CW and phone sub- bands that need separate mode and filter settings. So, I took it a step further. I offer this as a universal band management scheme. I assigned each CW and phone band to a separate memory number, starting with memory 10. These are selected by VFO A (with the help of text labels). I set VFO A to the bottom of the (CW or phone) sub-band, and VFO B to the top of that sub-band. That enables band scanning (Manual p. 37). And of course, I set modes and filters appropriately. I labeled each memory like this, starting with #10: 10. 160C -- the 160m CW portion 11. 160S -- the 160m (SSB) phone portion 12. 80 C 13. 80 S 14. *60 1 -- on 60m, the last digit is the channel number (1-5) 15. *60 2The *asterisk sets up channel-hop scanning (Manual p.37) (not yet enabled in firmware) ... etc., ending with: 33. 6 S -- the 6m phone band Quick memories M1-M4 supplement these entries PER-BAND. For 20-10m, I set the DX beacon frequencies to M4. M1-M3 are open for quick entries, nets, etc. This set-up took me about an hour, but it's good learning practice! I now have instant reference to ALL my band boundaries, right on my K3 screen. So, how does it play? Tap MV and the big knob becomes a super band switch (without detents). You want speed? Duplicate just your favorite bands onto any quick memories 0-9. Memories 10-33 remain, keeping ALL the bands stored for you. If (when) you tap VM by mistake and override a quick memory (!) you can find it again, with all your settings, and transfer it back to the quick memory. 2. To hop bands with instant return to the same frequency, don't forget the original BAND switch! 56 non-quick memories remain available. I set one for CB (11m USA Citizen's Band) -- Why not? I can scan it to check for 10m skip. I can use others for SWL bands or favorite broadcast stations (one on VFO A and another on VFO B). Now I fully enjoy the navigation capability of the K3. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] #911 built
Dick, I found the manual to be very clear. I'm really an analog guy. I am a slow learner and fast forgetter with a lot of digital devices. My Yaesu VHF HT drives me CRAZY. On the other hand, I've had FUN learning to use the K3, so I can only speak well of the manual. The manual works for me but it assumes the reader has a background in CW/SSB transceiver concepts. My previous HF transceiver is 30 years old. I was almost completely inactive in the field for 20 years. Yet I understand all except the more arcane parameters I've read in the manual and actually enjoy configuring and experimenting. The concepts you need in order to understand the K3 manual are of a general variety that you can learn from ARRL publications etc. This is my view, and hopefully some useful advice -- NOT criticism! Windy KM5Q K3 #764 My only gripe is with the owner's manual. I have never used a software defined rig before, and I found the description of the various menu and config choices fairly baffling. ... ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K3 10M Birdie
I have it too. It's a clean carrier, too weak to indicate on the S meter. Windy KM5Q #764 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] RE: Elecraft SSB Net - dual band / dual hour proposal
Gary, Thanks for trying on 20! I called a little, but found action on 40. After that, I popped up to 20 a couple more times for a quick check, but heard nobody. I'm sure that was us that you were hearing on 7.192. We usually identify frequently, but we got casual about that last night. This is a reminder to mention the net frequently in our IDs, and pause for check-ins. When noise levels are high, even my mojo-saturated 120 watts doesn't cut it. I often turn the control over to someone who is being heard better, with more power and a higher antenna. However, we've had some wonderfully quiet nights recently, so please keep trying. It's a pleasure to hear the 10-watt guys. On noisy nights, the best approach may be to find something better to do -- Wait for the quiet nights, rather than spin your wheels. Here is the full list of check-ins last night on 7.192 at 0130: Windy KM5Q, net catalyst, K3 Roger WA7BOC, faithful sidekick K3 Bruce W8FU, new K3, first time in net, took control with best signal 1KW to a beam Jim K4JAF, expecting K3 in a month Peter N8MHD, K2/100 and a nod to Gary N7HTS for making the effort At 0230, conditions were better, but only Roger and I reappeared, first on 20, then better on 40. Keep this later time in mind, please. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM Again: ELECRAFT SSB NET MONDAY THURSDAY USA-NIGHTS / 0130 0230 UTC (In Europe that's Tuesday and Friday mornings) FREQUENCIES: 7.192* MHz and 14.316 * +/- the QRM Use memories or band switch to go back and forth, to see what works best. SUNDAYS 1800 UTC 14.316 MHz If you don't hear anybody, please call the net yourself -- There isn't always a regular net control present. - Gary D Krause Fri, 23 May 2008 07:36:01 -0700 Hi Windy, I tried to check into the 20 meter net last night but, nobody heard me! I wascalling CQ ten minutes before the net started and about ten minutes after itstarted. I heard someone on the frequency announce the Elecraft net but, I guess he couldn't hear me. I was running 10 watts on my K2. Unfortunately we had bad weather here last night with tornados, hail and severe thunderstorms so, I had my main vertical antenna down. It's on a tilt mount. I was using a small portable vertical so, I'm sure that didn't help. I went to 40 meters and heard some activity at 7.192 but, I wasn't sure it was the net since I didn't hear any mention of it. Instead of spending time on the net, I spent the evening as a weather spotter on 2 meters. I'll try again next time! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: Elecraft SSB Net - dual band / dual hour proposal
It worked! Tonight the noise level was even higher than usual on 40 and 20, but we had exchanges on both bands. At 0130 I contacted WA7BOC Roger on 20. We moved to better conditions on 40. We had 5 check-ins on 40. Bruce in Toledo, W8FU was in for the first time on K3 #844. At 0230, I raised nobody on 20, but had a strong contact with WA7BOC again on 40. We had a nice 2-way. So this seems to be a workable net plan. Sunday on 20m remains the same schedule. Here again: ELECRAFT SSB NET MONDAY THURSDAY USA-NIGHTS / 0130 0230 UTC (In Europe that's Tuesday and Friday mornings) FREQUENCIES: 7.192* MHz and 14.316 * +/- the QRM Use memories or band switch to go back and forth, to see what works best. SUNDAYS 1800 UTC 14.316 MHz If you don't hear anybody, please call the net yourself -- There isn't always a regular net control present. - Hope to hear you, Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3: Optimizing TEXT DECode for CW
The K3 TEXT DEC system works well on CW signals that are above the noise level, but to use it for weaker signals and noisy conditions requires some understanding and technique. Here's what I learned. The decoder gets its signal from the same trigger as the CWT indicator bar. See for yourself -- When your display is in CWT mode, play with the RF gain so the CWT bar goes on and off. The moment it disappears, the decoding stops. As soon as the CWT bar flickers with noise, the decoder TRIES to read the on/off signal. If the CWT bar is responding to clean code, you will get good text. If it isn't code, unfortunately, the decoder tries anyway, and produces junk text. If the CW signal is audible but is not stronger than the noise, the CWT bar will flicker from the noise AND the CW, and the decoder will show too much junk. Once you accept that, you can reduce frustration. To minimize junk text from QRN, hold TEXT DEC, then adjust threshold (thr ...) upward until it squelches the CWT bar. Now, The text decode will work if there is CW signal above the noise. But now, set the threshold a little lower, slightly too sensitive. This will allow for varying conditions. When noise works the CWT bar, reduce the RF GAIN until the bar disappears. This is how to fine-tune the threshold quickly. If you get static crashes or other erratic noise triggering the decode, don't let IISKSK IEN SKSK distract you. Watch the CWT bar. Let THAT tell you when to watch the text -- when it LOOKS like code rather than noise. Maybe future firmware will improve the decoder so it will ignore noise, but for now, this is the best way I have found to use it. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM K3 #764 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: Elecraft SSB Net - dual band / dual hour proposal
I got several favorable replies to my proposal below, so let's start right away. 40m has been S8 noise level for me, but usable. 20 is very good! I'll going to pay most attention to 20, but I'll listen to 40. I think we'll have a more viable net this way. Even if it only results in a few personal QSO's that's fine. Consider it a place to meet. Give a call. See what happens. So again: MONDAY THURSDAY USA-NIGHTS / 0130 0230 UTC (In Europe that's Tuesday and Friday mornings) FREQUENCIES: 7.192* MHz and 14.316 * +/- the QRM If this doesn't work, I may give up until winter approaches! Over, Windy KM5Q SSB Nets were off to a good start through the winter, but with seasonal shift, activity has faded on both the 20m and 40m nets. Last night for example, 40 was noisy and short, but 20 was jumping with 3- ways all over the USA and down to ZL, especially later in the evening. I suggest we schedule two bands at once. With my K3/ATU, I can switch between 40 and 20m net frequencies with two taps of either memory or band switch. Some of us have two rigs and can also do it with ease. Let's use our capabilities (especially when sub-RX arrives). Time is the next issue. Best time now is when nearly all USA is dark -- that's hard for some Easterners on a school night. So let's set TWO check-in times. Two times? Two bands? Numerous solid 2-way QSOs are more satisfying than 20 minutes spent checking in 10 guys at a bad time. So here's my proposal: MONDAY THURSDAY USA-NIGHTS / 0130 0230 UTC (In Europe that's Tuesday and Friday mornings) FREQUENCIES: 7.192* MHz and 14.316 * 7.190 has been busy. 7.192 is more clear but maybe there's a better hole. Let's observe. 14.316 at night? Also subject to observation. The Sunday net has also been unresponsive lately. Let's take that up next. Thanks! Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Burn in of KPA100
Where did this topic come from? I never read about on the Reflector before, or in the assembly or operating manuals. Did I miss something? Windy KM5Q K3 #764 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] ESD mat
Robert, There was lots of discussion of this on the list a month or two ago, but suffice to say there are many sources and it seems a lot of them cost about $25. Nobody had any significant reasons to recommend one kind over another. Here's a cheaper source, and while you're at it, a fine company for good tools and other great ham stuff. http://www.mtechnologies.com/tools/#strap Get their larger mat, only $9.95 I used their strap and mat and My K3 survived assembly 100% even in dry static-prone wx. In all the previous discussions, nobody mentioned to be careful what you wear! No wool or fleece, for example. Maybe that's just obvious. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM K3 #764 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net - dual band / dual hour proposal
SSB Nets were off to a good start through the winter, but with seasonal shift, activity has faded on both the 20m and 40m nets. Last night for example, 40 was noisy and short, but 20 was jumping with 3- ways all over the USA and down to ZL, especially later in the evening. I suggest we schedule two bands at once. With my K3/ATU, I can switch between 40 and 20m net frequencies with two taps of either memory or band switch. Some of us have two rigs and can also do it with ease. Let's use our capabilities (especially when sub-RX arrives). Time is the next issue. Best time now is when nearly all USA is dark -- that's hard for some Easterners on a school night. So let's set TWO check-in times. Two times? Two bands? Numerous solid 2-way QSOs are more satisfying than 20 minutes spent checking in 10 guys at a bad time. So here's my proposal: MONDAY THURSDAY USA-NIGHTS / 0130 0230 UTC (In Europe that's Tuesday and Friday mornings) FREQUENCIES: 7.192* MHz and 14.316 * 7.190 has been busy. 7.192 is more clear but maybe there's a better hole. Let's observe. 14.316 at night? Also subject to observation. The Sunday net has also been unresponsive lately. Let's take that up next. Thanks! Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Bandwidth SAV Not Working
It works on mine (using the current Beta firmware). However, I had to read the errata addition in the instructions 3 times to get it. SUGGESTION: I think it would be more useful to have it edit what NORM means so that one press of NORM would give me my preferred setting(s) of I/II. For example, on CW (I have the 500Hz filter) NORM is .50. I'd rather begin cruising the band with a wider setting, then narrow down when I choose. So I'd prefer to save my NORM setting as .90. I was hoping to do this with SAV, but to have to then remember to turn the knob to an ALT, it's more trouble than just adjusting the passband wider. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 On Sat, 17 May 2008 12:02:33 -0400, Roy Morris wrote: I would like to know if the SAV function has been temporarily disabled in firmware. This is the function that sets the bandwidth in memory and is accessed by pushing in the SHIFT knob for approx 3 seconds. These memories are set through --NOR-- selection. Presently I cannot SAV new bandwidth settings. Roy Morris W4WFB K3 #323 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Power down without using power switch - OK?
Sometimes I just turn off my power supply instead of turning the radio off first. Is this recommended or not? Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 BETA FIRMWARE RELEASE -- MCU rev 1.94
Following are by-ear impressions: The receive audio seems to have improved. Voices sound more natural and clear. NR audio has improved. I used to turn it off and on and keep evaluating whether the noise reduction was worth the degradation in audio quality. Now I can forget sometimes that I have it on. Last night we had lightning crashes and I was amazed how well it took them out on 40m (although on that I can't compare from previous release). CWT in my observation has not improved but we simply await Wayne's reverting to the older system soon (per his recent message). Smiling, Windy KM5Q ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Antenna 1/2 Operation
I have the same concern as Craig. The recommendation from Robert and Vic don't work on my K3. Here's my scheme: Ant. 1 is a non-resonant dipole. On 20m for example, SWR is 4.5:1. The ATU brings it to 1:1. Ant. 2 is a screwdriver vertical on tin roof, adjusted (with ATU bypassed) to show 1:1. I set the ATU for for either antenna, or one then the other, but it NEVER auto-adjusts when I switch antennas. Never on any band or with any (mis)tuning of my vertical, have I heard more than one relay click when switching ANT 1/2 (no ATU reset). I'm running the new Beta FW now (no problem) and it's my third FW version. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 Santa Fe, NM -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/K3-Antenna-1-2-Operation-tp17208306p17212835.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 BETA FIRMWARE RELEASE -- MCU rev 1.94
I'm getting the same result as Bob. No matter how I set the threshold, 2,3, Automatic, etc, I cannot get it to perform as well as the old 1.78 version which was just amazing. Windy KM5Q Well, I have, and found that the lower the threshold, the less stable. Using the beta version, with THR = 2 excursions of 20 Hz between auto-spot invocations are not uncommon - yet on the same signal (S5 or so) the 1.78 version performs very well. The side by side comparison with two rigs using the same signal is telling. I'll play with it a bit more this evening. Bob NW8L On Tue, May 13, 2008 at 8:56 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Bob, Try setting the threshold to 2 or 3 (CWT Hold). With a fixed threshold, it seems very close to the previous performance on all but the strongest signals (and even the old FW was a bit touchy with S9+20 signals). 73, ... Joe, W4TV -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/K3-BETA-FIRMWARE-RELEASEMCU-rev-1.94-tp17199166p17215426.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Antenna 1/2 Operation
Thanks Robert and Craig. I got it! In fact, I had it all along. I had been manually resetting ATU with every band change, not knowing it was doing it for me! I can't tell the difference between hearing one relay click and numerous relays are clicking simultaneously -- they sound like one click to me, not even perceptibly louder. I didn't believe it was working until I made as variety of tests. My previous rig is 30 years old. I'm still in Rip Van Winkle mode. All join now, as we proclaim by golly. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/K3-Antenna-1-2-Operation-tp17208306p17215573.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Receiver distortion
I also notice slightly rough audio. It's subtle, but I believe something went wrong after the last FW upgrade. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - A complete BAND SWITCHING scheme using 33 memories
Back to the subject -- I've received 6 thank-you notes so far for the band switching scheme I described. I relay the thanks to Douglas, Rick and others who initiated this. I welcome feedback or suggestions from users, on or off-list. I may then write a revised how-to document. When the K3 Utility (or other system) provides computer download to the radio's memories, we'll have a fine management tool. Meanwhile, just use the radio's entry system. You'll get good at it. It's really only 23 memories. My mistake -- it's #10-33 (plus optional duplication onto the quick buttons). Enjoy! Windy KM5Q ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 60m setup?
True, channel hopping isn't yet implemented in firmware (nor is stopping for strong stations when scanning). Also, others have reported the same problem of BAND switch going to out-of-band previous stops, like WWV. We have to wait for that too. Best to be thrilled with what you have, and wait patiently for the small issues to be addressed. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM K3 #764 Channel Hopping doesn't work yet. It's on the fixit list. matt zilmer, W6NIA ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 - A complete BAND SWITCHING scheme using 33 memories
I tried using the quick memories 0-9 to store band data, modes, filters, and other parameters (Douglas Zweibel's message of March 10). Then I thought about how most bands are split into CW and phone sub- bands that need separate mode and filter settings. So, I took it a step further. I offer this as a universal band management scheme. I assigned each CW and phone band to a separate memory number, starting with memory 10. These are selected by VFO A (with the help of text labels). I set VFO A to the bottom of the (CW or phone) sub-band, and VFO B to the top of that sub-band. That enables band scanning (Manual p. 37). And of course, I set modes and filters appropriately. I labeled each memory like this, starting with #10: 10. 160C -- the 160m CW portion 11. 160S -- the 160m (SSB) phone portion 12. 80 C 13. 80 S 14. *60 1 -- on 60m, the last digit is the channel number (1-5) 15. *60 2The *asterisk sets up channel-hop scanning (Manual p.37) (not yet enabled in firmware) ... etc., ending with: 33. 6 S -- the 6m phone band Quick memories M1-M4 supplement these entries PER-BAND. For 20-10m, I set the DX beacon frequencies to M4. M1-M3 are open for quick entries, nets, etc. This set-up took me about an hour, but it's good learning practice! I now have instant reference to ALL my band boundaries, right on my K3 screen. So, how does it play? Tap MV and the big knob becomes a super band switch (without detents). You want speed? Duplicate just your favorite bands onto any quick memories 0-9. Memories 10-33 remain, keeping ALL the bands stored for you. If (when) you tap VM by mistake and override a quick memory (!) you can find it again, with all your settings, and transfer it back to the quick memory. 2. To hop bands with instant return to the same frequency, don't forget the original BAND switch! 56 non-quick memories remain available. I set one for CB (11m USA Citizen's Band) -- Why not? I can scan it to check for 10m skip. I can use others for SWL bands or favorite broadcast stations (one on VFO A and another on VFO B). Now I fully enjoy the navigation capability of the K3. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Scanning doesn't stop at strong signals
The manual doesn't actually say scanning should stop, but it should unmute for interesting signals. I presume that means stop! Mine doesn't unmute or stop, even for S9 signals. Also, channel hop scanning (mainly for 30m) doesn't work. I suspect these are waiting for future firmware - ? Windy KM5Q K3 #746 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: K3 Band Changing using Memories
In reply to Dick Green WC1M / Mon, 05 May 2008 23:06:37 -0700 I would imagine there's been some talk about the ergonomics of changing bands on the K3. Before I add my two-cents, has Elecraft committed to any improvements in this area? 73, Dick WC1M I took the advice of one of our loyal contributors as I have copied below. Works wonderfully for me. I have memories set for DX beacons as well. Windy KM5Q K3 #764 Santa Fe, NM = From: DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: March 10, 2008 6:24:41 PM MDT To: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3: remembering filters per mode, etc I think it might be valuable to share how some of us (but not ALL of us!) set up our K3's. You can really do a lot of neat things in terms of setting it up. Remember that the memories can store a TON of information per memory. Here is what I have done; maybe it will give some you a couple of ideas for YOUR approach. First, I loaded the keypad memories (0-9) as a sort of band switch. I borrowed (stole) from another user's idea which was posted here quite a while ago. It was clever and is worth repeating. For the Keypad #'s I did this (slightly different than what was originally suggested, but works for me). 1 = 10 meters 2 = 20 meters 3 = 30 meters 4 = 40 meters 5 = 15 meters (five and fifteen both start with the same sound...) 6 = 160 meters (emphasis on the 6 sound) 7 = 17 meters 8 = 80 meters 9 = 12 meters (so it's not perfect) 0 = 6 meters (which I don't have an antenna for, so I kept it out of the way) Now here's the trick. I made sure to set VFO A for CW with all of my favorite CW parameters (meter display = SWR and RF Power, filters = 500hz (what I have here), DSP BW = 400hz (what I like), VOX, QSK, AGC=F, etc. I set up VFO B for SSB, again with my favorite SSB parameters (meter display = CMP ALC), AGC = S, filter = 2.7 (what I have), DSP BW = 2.6, Shift = down a bit (how I set it up), HI/LO as I set it up, etc. This is done via filter modes I and II. I am not using Alt 1 and Alt 2 for my style, but you can. Don't forget to be on your favorite frequency for the mode you are selecting. I did this for EVERY band (key-pad number, as per above cheat sheet). So if I'm on 10m cw and want to go 15m cw, I tap MV, then tap 5 on the keypad, and I'm there! If I had wanted to go to SSB on 15, I'd do the same thing, but when done I would tap VFO A/B and I'm on SSB in the SSB portion of the band. If you operate mostly SSB, set them up so that VFO A has the SSB info. But now it gets even better (at least for me). The M1 = M4 memories also store all that stuff but on a per band basis. So, let say I'm on 15m. I put 21000 into VFO A and 21060 into VFO B (the latter being the QRP frequency). For each (both on CW), I set up the other parameters as I like for CW. I put that into M1. For M2, I set up for SSB. VFO A = the bottom of the phone band, along with all my favorite SSB settings. I set VFO B for somewhere higher in the band, say 21.350, again with all my favorite SSB parameters, including filters, shift, etc. For M3, I set up for RTTY. I'm not a big RTTY type, so basically I have a discrete frequency somewhere where the RTTY guys seem to hang out, set the MODE for FSK D, decoder ON, CWT=ON, etc. and when I want to see some RYRYRYRY, I just M3. So once I get to 15m using my keypad band switch, I can zero in on where I want to be using M1 - M4. Do this on every band. This may not be the best way for you, but I like it! Kind of a neat trick. Right now, TX5C is the callsign of the Clipperton DxPedition. Over the last two days, they have been rock solid on fixed transmit frequencies (at least on cw) per band. It is trivial to plug those into the memories per band (say, M4). SPLIT is saved and I would pick something up 5 as a starting point. Or you might want to use the XIT instead. By the way, if you LOCK their transmit frequency, that appears to be SAVED also. Amazing. Prior to using LOCK on their transmit freq, I found myself thinking that I was tuning around for where I should transmit (in split) when I was actually on THEIR frequency (not a good idea, since I then lost where they were transmitting). So LOCKING the VFO on their transmit frequency completely prevents that from happening. Maybe this is what getting old is. LOL Doing all of this, I never use the MODE switch and BAND up/down. I haven't added up how many taps it takes to do it this way vs the other ways, but this is way is fun and I'm not navigating all of the front panel and having to spin the VFO like crazy or pushing RATE or COARSE buttons to get close to where I want to be. Setting up every parameter the way you want it for every band does take a little time (not much once you get going) and also a little skill. I can't remember how many
Re: [Elecraft] K3 FM filter required for full AM receive width
My widest filter is 2.8. I am allowed to widen the DSP to 4. So why not in AM, for BC receiving, be allowed wide enough for high fidelity, without a roofing (or xmit) filter? (AM can be widened to 10, but it sounds narrow and muffled) I get much better bandwidth (fidelity) now using SSB to receive AMl, but it makes noisy band-browsing because of all the heterodyne noise. Windy KM5Q K3 764 How can you have an IF bandwidth wider than 6KHz without using a filter that's wider than 6KHz? - Julian, G4ILO K3 s/n: 222 K2 s/n: 392 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Knob shaft and pot issues
My #764 wasn't missing anything. I'm left with an extra pile of spare hardware, so I could have dropped a tiny screw and been OK. My dual-pots have only slight play. They turn smoothly. I think they switched vendor and should watch for this! My rig worked fine at first power-up. Windy KM5Q Bob K9PAG wrote: Mon, 05 May 2008 10:10:27 -0700 My kit K3 #818 came with the shafts on the four small dual function knobs lose and the associated pots feeling like they were gritty when turned. Sure not as smooth and nice as my ICOM 746! Wonder how many #800 units experienced this problem or is it just me? The lose shafts and gritty feeling when turned reminds me of cheap volume controls on a Chinese radio. And how many have experienced a DOA KSYN3 (synthesizer) board in your kit? In addition, how many of you have experienced missing hardware in your kit making it difficult to complete? ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Listen for GM4ESD on the 40m Elecraft SSB net tonight
Gents, Come join the net and listen for Geoff. I have thunderous sky here, but I'll do my best (?) Windy KM5Q K3 #674 Good evening Windy, 40m almost woke up here last night, good contacts into Chile etc. If I can stay awake I shall be listening / calling on 7.190 MHz +- tomorrw morning at 0100 UTC (0200 local time). I will have to use my homebrew receiver as my K2/100's receiver cannot cope with the BC station at 7.190 MHz, but will use the K2/100's transmitter to make things 'legal'!! 73, Geoff GM4ESD ELECRAFT SSB NET MONDAY THURSDAY EVENINGS 0100 UTC on 7.190 MHz That's evenings local time in the Americas. In Europe, it's Tuesday and Friday mornings ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 FM filter required for full AM receive width
Wayne, In the new firmware announcement you say: AM RECEIVE WIDTH RANGE INCREASED ... NORM selects an IF bandwidth of 6.0 kHz in this mode. WIDTH settings above 6.0 kHz will not be useful unless you have an FM-bandwidth crystal filter installed (at FL1). I like using the K3 for shortwave listening. I would rather not be required to buy the FM xtal filter to get the full bandwidth on AM. Will this change with future revisions? Windy KM5Q ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K3 FIRMWARE UPDATE: MCU 1.87, DSP 1.69 (Finally!)
I noticed the exact same thing as Harrison, below! Auto-spot is broken. But if I have to say something nice, NR works better (on SSB at least) than it did before! Windy AI1V Sun, 04 May 2008 20:00:52 -0700 Ditto here. While it wasn't perfect before, the new version often over-shoots the frequency. It appears considerably less damped than before and often quits before things settle down. I personally prefer the old version. Rick AI1V K3 728 Harrison Hooker wrote: Hello, I also confirm that the auto- spot is broken. My CW pitch is set at 600 Hz (only note tested) and it now takes several attempts to get it to set near 600 Hz. The old version worked very well for me. 73, Harry W8YMO ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K3 VFO A tuning knob set screw
John, If the threads of your tap mesh the screw, then the screw is NOT metric. Metric size is noticeably different. If your tap's diameter also matches, I'd go for it. Windy KM5Q -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/K3-VFO-A-tuning-knob-set-screw-tp17038533p17040327.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Firmware Update for Mac OSX won't talk to K3 --?
System: Mac OSX 10.5.2. I have the KUSB adapter cable. I downloaded AND installed the appropriate Prolific driver for my OS, as instructed (PL2303 driver). Installation looked normal. I restarted, etc. I have K3 Utility v. 1.1.4.1 K3 is turned on, connected to USB port. Port -- after Refresh Port List, I hit Test Communications. It says MCU boot loader is ready for MCU firmware load RS232 39400 bps. Firmware -- I GOT the download of new files from Elecraft OK -- Utility shows MCU Available: 01.87, etc. I hit Send All New Firmware to K3 This is as far as I can get: 20:50:09 New firmware is available for your K3 20:51:29 K3 boot loader is waiting for MCU firmware load. 20:51:44 K3 boot loader is waiting for MCU firmware load. This is the same message I was getting BEFORE I installed the Prolific driver. I don't think computer is talking to K3: Crystal Filter Configuration shows all zeros K3 Config still shows 1.78 I turned K3 off, then back on. No help. Am I supposed to do something at K3 other than turn it on? Frustrated! Windy KM5Q ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 kit builders start your nuts ...
Start them with a Heathkit nut starter! It's a little plastic tube just soft enough to stretch over the two main sizes of nuts. Makes it SO much easier to start those little buggers. You'll need to find an Old Master who saved them from the good old days. Get on his good side, and MAYBE he'll give you a nut starter he saved from the good old days. Then, promise to save it for the next generation. Thanks Fred. Windy KM5Q ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Use RIT/XIT knob for speed-tuning
I might have missed this handy feature if another K3 owner hadn't shown it to me. That's why I'm bringing it up here. When RIT/XIT is off, it's control can function as a very coarse tuning, to quickly zip around a band. To enjoy this feature, you need to configure it -- See the user's manual, bottom of p. 14. Enjoying! Windy KM5Q K3 #764 PS. Hope to CU in the SSB Net shortly, 7.190 at 0100 See http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page for the net schedule (under User Groups) ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Front panel rattling washer
LOOSE PHONES JACK AND WASHER RESOLVED! I removed the left side panel to see what's up. So there is a very small gap due to slight bowing forward of the front panel. Again I could squeeze it shut with my fingers and re-tighten the nut, but that's not adequate. Lacking a hex nut, I placed cloth over the round nut and tightened it carefully with pliers. It's fine for now. Why not simply supply a hex nut and flat washer? It would make it safe, easy and secure. Windy KM5Q -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/K3-Front-panel-rattling-washer-tp16964678p16987379.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Loose PHONES jack and crooked VFO A shaft RESOLVED!
LOOSE PHONES JACK and RATTLING WASHER RESOLVED! I removed the left side panel to see what's up. There was a very small gap due to slight bowing forward of the front panel. Again I could squeeze it shut with my fingers and re-tighten the nut, but when plugging in phones, it would again loosen immediately. I placed cloth over the round nut and tightened it carefully with pliers. It's fine until I find a hex nut that fits. Elecraft: Why not supply a hex nut and flat washer? It would make it safe, easy and secure. VFO A SHAFT was off-90° RESOLVED! I was sure I had tightened the front panel nut, perhaps too much, using a box-end wrench. I removed the knob and plastic and found to my surprise that it was NOT tight. Something shifted? I don't know. I gave the nut some gentle torque with the wrench and it came out almost perfectly straight, and definitely good enough. All's well in the shack. Windy KM5Q K3 #764___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K3 Headphone jack/front panel gap
Ron, Thank you for the detailed reply. I have shortened your response below, and inserted my comments. Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:28:14 -0700 I've only received sporadic reports of this happening, and *nothing* after suggesting checking the fit of the mic connector, which led me to believe the problem was fixed as suggested My mic connector does clear the hole, as in Fig. 37. ... Among the returns they have noticed several that did not have the split ring lock washer between the standoff and the pc board as shown in Figure 34 of the assembly manual. Instead the builder put the washer under the head of the screw because that’s where one might expect to put a lock washer, but that is *not* where it goes. ... I'm certain I did it as described. In this case it is part of the total spacer provided by the standoff and must go between the standoff and the pc board. That mistake actually helps the PHONES washer fit more tightly by moving everything forward toward the sheet metal, but can result in a skewed VFO A shaft since the connector 'bottoms out' in the jack on the front panel PC board before it sits squarely behind the front panel. In that case, I suppose I would have seen the threaded shaft draw outward as I snugged the nut. I used a box-end wrench and watched, and didn't see that happening. I think the toothed lockwasher on the inside crushed more on one side. Since I had 6 wrench leverage, I followed temptation and made it pretty tight, maybe more than intended? - but not extreme. I do have some finesse. I suppose I could try tightening it more, to see if it straightens out. Adding the nut inside the front panel will move the VFO A encoder back and solve that problem, but it can cause fit issues in the future as you add options. Another problem that mistake causes are occasional broken LCD glass because the display is moved forward with the front panel board where the screws holding the LCD cover can strike it. So far, they have found they can fix loose PHONES jack washers and crooked VFO A encoders by tightening the nuts sufficiently. As one builder mentioned, the knurled nut defies too much tightening with a tool unless one risks scratching the front panel. What the folks in Aptos have done is to squeeze the front panel sheet metal back against the PC boards in one hand, pressing *between* the jack and the red and yellow LEDs just above it (but not ON the LEDs) with a thumb while supporting the PC boards with their fingers from behind. That flexes the sheet metal just slightly but enough to allow them to tighten the PHONES knurled nut with the fingers of the other hand to trap the washer securely. So far, that has cured all the loose washers they have encountered assembling rigs. That's what I did when I assembled it, since I didn't think just finger-tight would do. I got it tighter that way, but still, it loosened as soon as I plugged headphones in a couple times. They also reported getting a few K3s back with complaints about a crooked VFO A encoder that was fixed simply by tightening the nut against the front panel. It was finger tight, but not tight enough. A little extra leverage on the nut straightened up the shaft. See above. Mine IS pretty tight. Of course, both of those fixes can cause serious damage if the front panel is not properly spaced from the front panel board using the 5/16 standoffs and split lock washers as shown in the manual. I guess I'm safe there. An obvious question is how tight is too tight so that it might break something. I have assembled two front panels, and both times nominal pressure with pliers (or a socket wrench held in my hand - no handle attached) was plenty. But two is a tiny sample. It would be good to hear from those who have the loose Phones washer and crooked VFO A encoder problems and whether any of the above helped, should you be inclined to take another look. Feel free to drop me a note if you're experiencing these problems and let me know if the above help. Ron If I can find some fix for the loose PHONES jack, I'll be happy to leave the encoder shaft as it is, unless you suggest I tighten it a bit more (trusting my good judgement) but now that I recall from the photo how slim the lock washers are, I'm more inclined to leave well enough alone. Thanks! Windy___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 #764 experience and critique
First, I'm delighted with the whole K3 experience. It's a brilliant product, worth the wait. I have a few issues and suggestions: 1. Several times I found myself doing a complex assembly step in my hands while reading the instructions. An important point would show up late in the paragraph, and I wished I had read it all first (but I couldn't resist). If important points were emphasized in BOLD print, I would have been more likely to read them first. 2. The final multi-plugging of the front panel was the only challenge I experienced. I knew it would be tricky, after reading about it in the reflector. Because I knew this, I took extra time and did it with confidence. Had I NOT known it was tricky, I would have felt clumsy and frustrated. I suggest noting in the instructions that this IS a tricky step and if the builder is getting tired, take a break first, and take it SLOW. 3. VFO A encoder uses an inside-tooth lock washer on each side of its mount. This caused mine to come out slightly off-90° when tightened (using a box-end wrench). I noticed it only when I mounted the knob with the felt washer and it rubbed on one side. I spaced it out slightly further with cardboard. It's OK, but this could have been avoided somehow. 4. Headphone jack on front panel isn't tight enough. Instructions are to tighten the ring-nut only finger-tight. I have pretty strong fingers, but that doesn't do the trick. If I use a hex-nut, will it squeeze the panel too much? 5. K3 is advertised as a no-solder kit, so it should not require soldering (or a $100 crimp tool) to make the Powerpole connection. That should be done at the factory. I soldered mine, using high temp. quickly, so it wouldn't wick much solder up the cable. A builder who does not have good soldering skills is likely to have trouble. 6. KUSB adapter instructions make no mention of Mac application. They should mention that the Prolific.com site has driver download for Mac OSX as well as other PCs, and that it is necessary. 7. When I turn down the compression, the power goes down with it. It should be equalized. 8. When I tune out of a ham band to listen elsewhere, then hit band switch, band switch will not return to the nearby ham band, but to the out-of-band frequency. Others reported this a few days ago. I expect that will get fixed in firmware. 9. I did frequency calibration by zero-beat method with WWV. I tuned the wrong way and didn't know it would take many turns. I didn't write down the original setting, so I got lost. I waited until I had a steadier WWV signal, then went in the other direction and got it perfect. I suggest that the instructions say that it may take many turns of the knob, and that you should write down the original setting first. In conclusion, the only issue I'm left with is the loose headphone jack. Not too bad! I have a Kenwood MC-43S fist mike with the 8-pin connector standard. I plugged it in and it works fine. My first QSO was with another K3 at the super-station in Visalia :-) I also checked into the Sunday Elecraft SSB Net. I've gotten all excellent audio reports. I just retired my Ten Tec Triton IV. I feel like Rip Van Winkle, awaking from the 1970's. Windy KM5Q___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3/Mac OSX firmware download seems stuck
My K3 (just received) came with a note that said to download the latest firmware before using it. Config menu says uC 1.78 / FW REV 5 I got through most of the process, but it won't finish. Here is the report from the K3 Utility: 08:47:53 K3 boot loader is ready for MCU firmware load. RS232 38400 bps. 08:49:08 K3 boot loader is waiting for MCU firmware load. 08:51:18 Connecting to ftp.elecraft.com. Please be patient, this takes a few seconds. 08:51:29 Connected to Elecraft server. 08:51:41 Copying files to Windy HD:Users:windy:Library:Application Support:Elecraft:K3 Firmware: 08:51:53 hmcu0178.hex verification succeeded 08:51:58 TBOOT7.HEX verification succeeded 08:52:09 HDSP0158.HEX verification succeeded 08:52:19 HAUX0155.HEX verification succeeded 08:52:36 DTBL0008.HEX verification succeeded 08:52:42 Copied K3UtilityVersionInfo.txt from Elecraft 08:52:48 Copied hfwnotes.rtf from Elecraft 08:52:48 Copied 7 files from Elecraft to Windy HD:Users:windy:Library:Application Support:Elecraft:K3 Firmware: 08:52:50 K3 boot loader is waiting for MCU firmware load. 08:52:50 Ready 08:54:42 K3 boot loader is waiting for MCU firmware load. 08:59:16 K3 boot loader is ready for MCU firmware load. RS232 38400 bps. That's as far as it will go after pressing Send All New Firmware to K3. I'm using the KUSB adapter between my Mac (with current OSX) and the K3. K3 is turned on. I don't see any clues in any instructions about anything else I'm supposed to do. It's Saturday, so the factory isn't open. ? Windy K3 S/N 764 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3/Mac OSX firmware download seems stuck
PS. Now I think it DID work! After my attempt, I checked the Config menu. Ity says uC 1.78 / FW REV 5 The Utility says 1.78 IS the current MCU version. So I think it worked, but the waiting statement is misleading and the Utility gave me no confirmation of success. Comments from OSX users welcome. Meanwhile, back to the shack! Windy ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net - Mark your calendar
In case you are new here, or have forgotten -- We have a nice little net going, and YOU are cordially invited. --- ELECRAFT SSB NET MONDAY THURSDAY EVENINGS 0100 UTC on 7.190 MHz That's evenings local time in the Americas. In Europe, it's Tuesday and Friday mornings SUNDAY 1800 UTC on 14.316 MHz You may need to tune +/- a few kHz to look for the net. If you don't hear anybody, please call it yourself -- There isn't always a regular net control present. -- This sched. plus the CW Net sched. stays posted and updated at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page scroll down to User Nets Be there or be square (or both) Windy KM5Q K3/100 #764 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Nov. 9 order arrives -- It's alive!
The kit arrived yesterday. I spent about 8 hours assembling and configuring. Easy assembly except for the expected tricky front-panel plugging. A little head-scratching to configure, but got it -- somehow the parts I did AFTER a night's sleep went easier. Go configure! So far, so good! Running now at 12W out. Will install 100W PA shortly, and will check into the SSB Net with a new voice. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Katiegram received for order of Nov. 9
Shipment expected 7-10 days. Back-ordered: 1.8 and 6K filters, sub-receiver, DVR My Triton IV is limping toward the finish line. Windy KM5Q ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net this week
On Sunday 4/6 on 14.316, we had these check-ins: KM5Q KE4WY - K3 WB6HPF - K2/100 KC7OKV On Tuesday evening, 4/7 (USA) we had these check-ins on 7.190: KM5Q N6GJR K4JAF - K3 on order N7HTS - K2/100 WA7BOC - K3 AD4C KB0WVI AF6AF On Thursday, we had: KM5Q W7QHD - K2/100 KA5KKT/4 - K3 on order KD8HXT 40M QRN was terrible on Tuesday. Thursday was steady noise, no crashes, and I had some enjoyable ragchew with 2 stations. They both sent encouragement to keep the net going. = NET SCHEDULES for SSB and CW Nets are posted at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page Scroll down to User Groups 73, Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM Ordered K3 Nov. 9 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net April 3, noisey but fun tonight
We had 6 check-ins. KE4WY is a new one in my log -- Jim in Kentucky on K3 #367. But the highlight of my evening was Budd W3FF mobile, riding a RECUMBENT TRICYCLE sporting an FT-857 and a vertical buddipole. Budd is a friend of Eric at Elecraft. He had just visited and tried a K3. He had so much enthusiasm and WOW in giving his impression of the K3 that he was overloading his little FT and proceeded to whack his antenna into a tree. Look him up on QRZ if you don't believe it. So there IS some fun on the Elecraft SSB Net. Y'all join in some time, hear? Windy KM5Q ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net Schedule for 40m and 20m
Here is a reminder with improved wording, and to inform new group members. -- Elecraft SSB Net Schedule for 40m and 20m MONDAY THURSDAY EVENINGS / 0100 UTC / 7.190 MHz That's evenings in the Americas. In Europe, it's Tuesday and Friday mornings SUNDAY 1800 UTC 14.316 MHz GENERAL GUIDELINES Tune +/- a few kHz to look for the net. If you don't hear anybody, please call it yourself -- There isn't always a regular net control present. --- For any future changes, check the listing on the K3 Wiki site: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page Scroll down to USER NETS. You'll see the CW net listed there too. Hope to CU, Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM K3 due late April ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Selecting An Iabic Key
There are so many to choose from that I had to find something really unique. It has NO moving parts, NO mechanical contacts: http://www.cwtouchkeyer.com/ I got the vertical-motion Touch Tapper: http://www.cwtouchkeyer.com/TT1.htm I built it from a kit, and I love it. Nothing to fool with, it just works perfectly by touch, at least for me. I find the vertical finger motion to be much more natural than a paddle, like the motion of using a keyboard. I put extra rubber feet right under the touch plates. My grandson can pound on it and it doesn't walk around on the desk. But they make paddle-style also. eHam reviews are mostly 5 (including mine). This is the solid state approach :-) Windy KM5Q / Santa Fe, NM There are so many to choose from ... it's hard to make a single recommendation -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/Selecting-An-Iabic-Key-tp16342000p16372401.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net Times and Frequencies *********
People keep asking me when the net is, so here is the current schedule: ELECRAFT SSB NET 40m MONDAY THURSDAY EVENINGS (Americas) TUESDAY FRIDAY MORNINGS (Europe) 0100 UTC 7.190 MHz 20m SUNDAY 1800 UTC 14.316 MHz You will also find the net schedule posted and updated at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page The CW Net is posted there too. If the frequency is in use, please tune up and down as necessary. If you hear nobody, please call the net yourself. There is not always an official net control. Hope to CU, Windy KM5Q Net Catalyst Santa Fe, NM ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net on 40m -- hello?
David, The 0200 UTC time is evening here, better for most folks in N. America. You might try starting an Elecraft Euro net. When propagation allows, we can hop the pond. EVERYONE, Find the net schedules at: http://www.zerobeat.net/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page Scroll down to User Nets -- At time of this message, the 20m freq. has not yet been updated. It should be 14.316. If there's another QSO close to frequency, tune around. If you hear nobody, call the net yourself. There may not be any official net control present. Thanks Windy KM5Q M0XDF wrote: do you think you could announce this earlier - like at least 12 hours before - since I'd like to have a go, but I'm many hours ahead of you and I forget. Please post the time and freq again and I'll put a reminder in my iCal ... 73 de M0XDF FISTS #12575 K3 #174 -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/Elecraft-SSB-Net-on-40mhello--tp16344093p16352988.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] KX1 and Solar Panel
Ed, I'd be very cautious around Li-Poly batteries. From what I know, they require a very careful charging program. Most of them have temperature sensing and a special chip built-in that signals back to the charger. On the other hand, your panel is very low power so maybe it's OK. I really don't know, but I just want you to take caution. Windy KM5Q Hello all, I plan to conduct some tests. I have a small solar panel that puts out 50ma maximum. I'll connect it to my pimped-out KX1 and see how it charges the 11.8v Li-Poly Battery. More to come... 72, Kangaroo Ed, WA3WSJ -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/KX1-and-Solar-Panel-tp16340778p16357831.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - Katiegram
This just in on the K3 Yahoo! group: For those tracking these things, I received my Katiegram tonight for an order placed September 27, 2007. Nelson, KU0A (via Windy KM5Q) -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/K3---Katiegram-tp16318835p16325940.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net for Sunday 20m needs a new frequency
I've heard favorable replies and nothing against, so let's start at 1800 on 14.316 starting this coming Sunday. Hope to CU. Windy KM5Q Thanks Jim. If Icom net seems to be clear (as you imply) by 1800, then we start then on 14.316. Then we have unlimited time. I'll make the final announcement after any further replies. Windy KM5Q Jim-168 wrote: Windy, correction 14.316 Icom is 1700 typically not long 14.329 Flex is 1900 14.329 TenTec is 2130 Yes, they are other radio forums on Sunday. One of these frequencies should work. Jim -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/Elecraft-SSB-Net-for-Sunday-20m-needs-a-new-frequency-tp16239964p16343166.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net on 40m -- hello?
I heard nobody tonight. There was another QSO on 7190. I called 2Kc higher and 2Kc lower for 8 minutes, but heard nobody. I suggest that if you hear nobody on or around the frequency, find the nearest clear spot and call it yourself. You don't commit yourself to being net control, you just put the signal out to see if anyone is lurking. We were off to a good start a few weeks ago, but activity has faded. I hope we can get active enough to at least maintain a meeting point. If there isn't much interest, maybe we should go to one night per week. Windy KM5Q Santa Fe, NM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3: KXV-3 for bandscope only - add later?
My K3 is due in about a month. I wonder if I should order the KXV-3 (RF I/O option) for the initial build, or consider adding it later. The ONLY purpose I expect to have for it is to connect the bandscope, when available. It seems to make sense to wait and add it later, unless it is hard to do after the assembly. Any advice from you builders? Or, an option might be to instal an IF output for the scope without purchasing the KXV-3. Is it just a cable and jack, or is there some isolating circuitry? (If it's very involved, I'd just get the whole KXV-3.) Thanks! Windy KM5Q ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net for Sunday 20m needs a new frequency
Jim -- are those other radio forums also on Sundays? That sounds logical, being a vacant hour in an established watering hole. If it gets muddy, we can make a move from there. Is there agreement or disagreement? Windy KM5Q How about 14.329 1800 utc? Icom is 1700 typically not long Flex is 1900 TenTec is 2130 73 de KE4WY Jim -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/Elecraft-SSB-Net-for-Sunday-20m-needs-a-new-frequency-tp16239964p16256022.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft SSB Net for Sunday 20m needs a new frequency
Thanks Jim. If Icom net seems to be clear (as you imply) by 1800, then we start then on 14.316. Then we have unlimited time. I'll make the final announcement after any further replies. Windy KM5Q Windy, correction 14.316 Icom is 1700 typically not long 14.329 Flex is 1900 14.329 TenTec is 2130 Yes, they are other radio forums on Sunday. One of these frequencies should work. Jim -- View this message in context: http://www.nabble.com/Elecraft-SSB-Net-for-Sunday-20m-needs-a-new-frequency-tp16239964p16262464.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
