Re: [Elecraft] How reliable an internet connection is needed for A K3 remote to work well?
I recently started using the PingPlotter network monitoring software and find it quite useful for keeping long term data in graph format of my packet loss with Comcast. http://www.pingplotter.com/ http://www.pingplotter.com/ The Free version does not provide long term monitoring. The Standard version is reasonably priced (around $30 I think) but the 30 day trial is fully functional. I do not know how it would work with remote station hosts, if they behave like a normal server or not. But if not one could still use it to track problems that are at the first few hops by monitoring other servers like google etc. You can display graphs for each hop in the path to the server. It is much easier to use than manual trace route and ping tests to each hop. Almost all of my packet loss is at hop #2 which is the first node past my router. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/How-reliable-an-internet-connection-is-needed-for-A-K3-remote-to-work-well-tp7591154p7591574.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Side Effects of QRQ On The K3
I will preface this with the comment that I did not order my K3 until Wayne did the QRQ mode firmware work because I operate a lot of QRQ (the definition of this varies of course, for me it is 60+ WPM full QSK). I believe the speed at which someone starts to hear the inconsistency in the K3 Keying in non-QRQ mode is a function of the individual, and also whether one is listening in a speaker or headphones. For me, I just barely start to notice it at 40 wpm with headphones. At 45 wpm it is intolerable. At 60 wpm it is unintelligible. For those who notice it at 30 wpm, my hat is off to your ears capability to detect timing variations I know a few years ago when testing with others, some thought it was fine at 45 wpm. I have no use for RIT or SPLIT, so I am one of the minority who is quite happy to stay in QRQ mode 100% of the time. The only time I press RIT is to demonstrate the QRQ keying to others in non-QRQ mode. I would like to have passband SHIFT available, but my guess is that Wayne would find it very difficult to remove the limitations in QRQ mode, and the target market for speeds above 40 wpm is extremely tiny. I had not been aware that anyone could notice a difference at 30 wpm. I have what I think are pretty picky ears so that is interesting to learn. Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Side-Effects-of-QRQ-On-The-K3-tp7587070p7587115.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] [KPA500] Fan Control from KPA500 Utility?
I have not found a way to change the minimum fan speed from the utility. Am I overlooking it? I find that when in a qso, if the fan control is set to NOR, then sometimes the fan kicks up really high, I can tell it is at least up to level 5. If I have it set to level 3, then it sometimes kicks up to level 4, never to level 5. Most of the time, I like to have it set to NOR (OFF) when idling or in short qsos but in a long qso I like to have the fan *not* run above level 4. I have been controlling it manually with the menu buttons which of course is not too difficult, but being lazy I would like to have fewer steps. Using the menu buttons it is about 11 steps to go from NOR to level 3, some requiring HOLD and some PRESS. Not a big deal, but if the utility had simple mouse clicks to jump up to level 3 and then back to NOR it would be a lot fewer steps. Something similar to the band selection menu in the utility would really be nice. Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Fan-Control-from-KPA500-Utility-tp7579971.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KPA500] Fan Control from KPA500 Utility?
Why didn't I think of this? I should have realized I could handle it this way. Works great. I tested first with ^FC3; since that is the highest minimum speed I want and at first thought it did not work because of other noises in the shack. But ^FC5; left no doubt! I should have posted my query a week ago (have only had the amp a few weeks now). Many thanks. Chuck Iain MacDonnell - N6ML-2 wrote Hi Chuck, You could use the Command Tester tab, and enter a command like ^FC5; (without the quotes). -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Fan-Control-from-KPA500-Utility-tp7579971p7579976.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KPA500] Fan Control from KPA500 Utility?
The reason is because then it does sometimes get up to level 5 and I prefer to keep it below that, if using level 3 as the minimum happens to accomplish that. Level 4 with headphones on is fine, level 5 is just a tad too noticeable. My only type of operation is CW, no monologues, sometimes as much as two or three minutes at a time, maybe as long as 5 minutes, full qsk with back and forth conversation. When I leave it on NOR, invariably on the longer transmissions it will eventually get up to level 5. When I set the minimum to level 3, it never gets above 4. We typically are running QRQ (e.g. 60-65 wpm) but the duty cycle is the same as at 30 wpm of course, and the fan does the same thing at those speeds. No high SWR, the amp never sees more than 1.5:1, using the KAT500. As for temps: Testing in a dummy load with a continuous 60 wpm CW canned message, 400W out, starting with fan off (NOR): Start: 36C 11 secs: 40C 50 secs: 50C 2.5 mins: 60C 4.5 mins: 65C In this test it leveled off at 65C, never kicked up to level 5. Room ambient is 79F. I would guess this rate of temperature rise is probably normal. But since it sometimes kicks up to level 5, when it has started from off, and never does when I keep the minimum at level 3, I prefer that. I would guess for the several minutes at a time when I am listening, it cools back down further with level 3 than with level 0, don't really know. My daily sked has had his amp for a year or more and he experiences the same behavior, he also leaves his at level 3 for the same reason. Chuck, W5UXH AG0N-3055 wrote But why not let the thermostatic controller do its thing? And, if it is kicking up to high speed in a QSO, you must be doing some very high duty cycle QSOs, i.e. talking continuously or working AM with long transmissions.Temps will run higher if you are running some reflected power too. Gary -- -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Fan-Control-from-KPA500-Utility-tp7579971p7579981.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KPA500] Fan Control from KPA500 Utility?
Hi Gary, Since I leave the fan at NOR most of the day, just bumping it up to level 3 during the long qsos, the fan mostly does not run at all. I still don't really understand why the fan sometimes kicks up a step higher when I have it set to NOR than when I have it set to level 3. It is not that often though, but in general during our skeds I hear more changing of fan speed between 0 and 4 than when I just leave it on 3 during the qso. The fan noise is not a problem, I just prefer a more steady level while in qso. I worked many years on systems that used large numbers of 5V/300A supplies and the worst problem was due to fan failures in the supplies! Too many callouts to drive 50 miles in the middle of the night. 73, Chuck On 10/17/13 8:36 PM, AG0N-3055 [via Elecraft] wrote: I'm a firm believer that fans whose bearings dry up and get tight are one of the biggest causes of failure in electronic equipment that runs all the time - that and not cleaning filters. :o) Since I leave most of my equipment on all the time, I would count on more fan maintenance/replacement. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Fan-Control-from-KPA500-Utility-tp7579971p7579990.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [KPA500] New amp and tuner working perfectly, one simple question
UPS delivered around 4 PM yesterday. Could not completely switch over to the new setup last night, but did it at 5:30AM this morning. It all integrates and does exactly what it should, really nice features! My question is very simple and totally unimportant. I notice the LCD has a symbol on the left that I think indicates when the KEY_OUT line from the K3 is asserted. I would guess that is all it does. I have not found any reference to it in the manual and a search of postings does not lead me to similar queries, but it is not easy to formulate the query. Can someone enlighten me? Chuck, W5UXH (happy camper) -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-New-amp-and-tuner-working-perfectly-one-simple-question-tp7579570.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KPA500] Query answered: New amp and tuner working perfectly, one simple question
I received a quick answer offline, pointing me here: /I believe you are referring to the asterisk that is described on page 9 of the owner's manual (last two sentences in point 2 under Transmitting)./ I even recognize the alternate function described so I have clearly read that section in the past, but it did not jump out at me when looking for it Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-New-amp-and-tuner-working-perfectly-one-simple-question-tp7579570p7579572.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KPA500] Suggested checklist for installing KPA and KAT with K3?
All, Thanks for the comments. No one has mentioned anything other than the USB to Serial so maybe I have everything else covered (fat chance!). I planned to use the single USB to Serial along with the switch because I already had all the cables and adaptors and the switch on hand and rarely have used the K3 utility. I will look at the Gearmo and probably pick one up since I currently will be using most of my serial cables even though I would only be using one of the USB to Serial cables. I definitely do not want to use up all of my individual USB to Serial (I think I only have three unused ones at the moment). I am not a DXer or contester and doubt there will be features I will need to change on the fly. I suspect this will be a set up once and forget about it configuration for me. Thanks again. Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Suggested-checklist-for-installing-KPA-and-KAT-with-K3-tp7579314p7579326.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [KPA500] Suggested checklist for installing KPA and KAT with K3?
I placed the order for the factory assembled KPA and KAT to go with my K3/100. I would like to identify any specific configuration items I need to be aware of to hopefully smooth the integration of all three units. Things already taken care of: Latest K3 firmware (04.67). Two 15 pin cables assembled per AD5X instructions. KPA and KAT utilities installed. I plan to use a single USB to RS-232 cable (already in use on the K3) with a switch box for all three units. I still need to fabricate the DE-9 to 1/8 stereo plug adaptor for the KAT but have the wiring information needed for that. Obvious configuration menu items to set: Amplifier Key Interrupt Power: select Optimize for the KPA500 Tuner Antenna selection per band: I will set this appropriately for the two antennas I use. (It appears that this can be set in the Configuration menu, but it sounds as if one can just train this setting on each band while training the tuner settings.) In reading the KPA and KAT manuals I have not run across anything else so far. I will need to set my K3 drive level for each band of course (currently set for an AL-80B/QSK amp). My hope is to be able to hook everything up and be ready to train the KAT for each frequency segment of bands of interest, set the K3 drive level for each band, and be ready to go. I will appreciate any suggestions / pointers that current users can provide. I suspect there will be one or more menu items in the K3 needed, so I need to study the K3 documentation next. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Suggested-checklist-for-installing-KPA-and-KAT-with-K3-tp7579314.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [K3] K3/0 Remote Rig QRQ / QSK performance
Apparently my mailman subscription disappeared, so this is a second attempt to get this query out there: Can anyone comment on the performance of the remote rig setup for higher speed CW? If I use a keyboard keyer on the K3/0 end and CW+ QRQ mode, other than the latency that of course is network dependent, can I expect the performance to be close to that when operating the K3 directly? On the K3/0 end I assume I would hear a local sidetone from the K3/0 and there would not be a sidetone coming back from the remote end? Can I expect the keying quality from the remote K3 to be the same as when operating the K3 directly? I would really like to hear from someone who actually operates QRQ speeds on the order of 50+ WPM who has used this setup, but perhaps that is wishing for too much. But how about 30 wpm or so in a QSK style QSO? Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-K3-0-Remote-Rig-QRQ-QSK-performance-tp7579062.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [KAT500] Tune operation question
Apparently my subscription to the mailman list got lost, so this is a second attempt to get this query out there: First, the Rev C. manual says the following: /The Elecraft KPA500 is designed to have its key line switched to disable or enable the amplifier even while it is producing full RF power, but many other amplifiers may be damaged doing that. To protect those amplifiers, the *KPA500* is supplied configured so that the key line will not be switched if more than 29 watts of RF power is present./ I am guessing this paragraph should say the *KAT500* is supplied configured.? I am getting close to ordering the KPA500 and KAT500 to go with my K3/100 and the tuning process is not clear in my old brain yet. The manual states: /A tune operation begins when RF power between 10 and 100 watts is applied and the SWR is above the tuning threshold in AUTO mode, or when the TUNE switch is tapped in either AUTO or MAN modes./ I am not able to fully grasp how this all works. Part of my confusion is the upper limit of 100 watts. Typically I will run the amp at more than 100 watts driving into the tuner. What am I missing? I hope tuning is automated such that all I have to do is key down shortly (a dash at 30 wpm I think I read somewhere) and the tuner will kick the amp offline if retuning is needed, do the tuning, and kick the amp back online. Any comments will be appreciated. Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KAT500-Tune-operation-question-tp7579061.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] K3/0 Remote Rig QRQ / QSK performance
Thanks for the interesting comments so far. I guess it is difficult to get a clear picture without hands on, but I have wondered about this for a long time. Regarding latency effects on QSK, I have a daily qso with a friend, typically at 60 wpm, where we are basically operating two paths in parallel: 20M RF and an internet CW VOIP path. The total latency for the full path from each of us through the server to the other (he is in Berkeley, CA, the server is in San Jose, CA and I am in southern NM) is such that one of us can listen to the real time RF path and the other can listen to the internet path or we can both listen to the internet path and it is easy to forget which path you are listening to. Of course if one of us pauses, intending to continue, the other may start to respond resulting if a brief doubling of a character or two, but with the full QSK in the K3 and the full duplex on the VOIP path, this is not a problem. Mitch mentions an external keyer can be used which is what I would require, so it is good to know that. Does the RRC still generate a local sidetone, with that audio mixed in the RRC with the remote audio, and the remote sidetone turned off? David mentions the remote sidetone will drive you nuts, but hopefully it can be set to zero. A third reply (offline) commented: On CW I can hear the band between characters at 25-28 WPM but I would think when you approach 30-35 WPM you wont hear much band.. Perhaps this is with the slow CW mode, not CW+. I would hope that the remote audio coming back would have the same CW+ QSK performance that I experience at 60 wpm. The QSK does degrade a bit starting at 65 wpm, but is excellent up to that point. Above 65 wpm, the QSK is variable depending on the exact stream of characters being sent, it is a bit strange actually. I think Wayne has said this is not the case if you send a string of dits using the internal keyer at 80 wpm, but with an external keyer things are not quite the same. Still I am very pleased with the CW+ mode performance up to 65 wpm. At 70 wpm, I actually prefer the VOIP path, but it is very rare to be pushing that hard, and we usually do not even creep up to 65. Thanks all, Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-K3-0-Remote-Rig-QRQ-QSK-performance-tp7579062p7579068.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KAT500] Tune operation question
Good, I thought it had to be this way, but am easily confused. I looked at the manual again and specifically noticed this statement: *Clicking on Optimize for the KPA500 automatically selects that setting.* which does make it even clearer. Having the default at 29 watts is quite reasonable. Thanks Dick and Ron. Chuck -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KAT500-Tune-operation-question-tp7579061p7579076.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [K3] VFO B mechanical clicking
I have started to notice a slight clicking noise as I rotate VFO B knob. It is strictly mechanical, being the same with power off or on. It is not a felt rubbing sound, but a distinct click , on the order of 8 clicks per revolution. It seems to vary somewhat so it is not precisely one click per 45 degrees of rotation but is in that ballpark. I have not opened it up to visually check things yet, but wonder if this rings any bells with anyone? I have not been able to refine either nabble or google searches sufficiently to find past topics for something similar, if they exist. K3 SN 4588, coming up on the 1 year anniversary in a few weeks. Thanks, Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-VFO-B-mechanical-clicking-tp6626860p6626860.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] VFO B mechanical clicking
Hi Don, I really should have removed the knob before posting, but just had the mind set that the noise was on the other side of the panel (no excuse for deciding that of course). As soon as I took the knob off, the nut fell on the floor! I rarely rotate VFO B but had not noticed it feeling loose when I did use it for menus. I had noticed that the slight felt rubbing noise I used to hear was gone when I started hearing this new noise today. I did not want to try to tighten the nut too much without being able to provide some support from the rear, but I think it will work fine for now by just snugging it from the front. Thanks for the suggestion. 73, Chuck, W5UXH Don Wilhelm-4 wrote: Chuck, I do not recall hearing anything about such a problem. I would suggest you take the knob off and see if the condition still exists. See if there is any felt strands from the washer stuck in the encoder shaft. If the felt washer has hairs cut them off with scissors. 73, Don W3FPR -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-VFO-B-mechanical-clicking-tp6626860p6627062.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] VFO B mechanical clicking
I used a small wrench and would guess I applied a reasonable amount of torque. Of course there is the question of why it came loose in the first place. Thanks, Chuck, W5UXH Guy, K2AV wrote: If you have one of those smallish 3 to 4 inch open end wrenches that fit the nut exactly, torquing it by putting pressure on other end of wrench with pinky finger only, can tighten it permanently with no danger to any component. Long term operation of VFO B without that nut tightened properly is a greater threat to physical integrity of components behind the panel. 73 GL Guy -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-VFO-B-mechanical-clicking-tp6626860p6627703.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Basic Info
Don, I suspect that Tom wants to run in CW+ (or QRQ) mode, and I believe in this mode the TX DLY delay parameter must remain at 8 and this effectively produces a delay from KEY IN to KEY OUT on the order of 4 to 5 msecs. I also believe it can not be increased by changing TX DLY? My guess is the vacuum relays in the amp might not switch quite this fast. 73, Chuck, W5UXH Don Wilhelm-4 wrote: Tom, I know nothing about that particular amplifier, but I offer a few in general facts. Pops in the K3 audio while keying an amp could be a sign of hot switching in the amplifier. Try increasing the keying delay in the K3 to see if that eliminates it. If not, check the relay pull-in time for the amp (plus any contact bounce time), and if it is not within the K3 Key-to-RF onset time, you will not be able to use QSK with that amplifier unless you can speed up its T/R relay. 73, Don W3FPR -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Basic-Info-tp6588331p6588551.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Basic Info
Tom, In the original release notes for QRQ mode, Wayne stated: Note 2: If you use CONFIG:TX DLY to set external keying delay, you may need to adjust its setting for QRQ CW use. Also, any increase in the default (8 ms) may decrease the maximum available CW speed. It stil is not clear to me exactly what this meant. I used the scope to look at the timing between KEY IN and KEY OUT to determine that increasing the parameter above 8 msec had no effect on the timing. And as mentioned previously, the delay is not equal to the value of 8 msecs. It is on the order of 4 to 5 msecs, so the 9500 relays must be able to switch faster than that. I believe what I found happening when the parameter was changed from 8 to even just 9 was that the KEY OUT line quit following the keying so that you effectively had semi qsk. A long interval of key open was needed in order for KEY OUT to go high again. I would need to check my log notes from my testing last August to verify this result, but it was something of this nature. Even when set to 8, KEY OUT starts to hang low (not follow the keying) at about 65 wpm so the QSK begins to degrade at that point. I would prefer for it to continue unblemished up to 70 wpm, but I hardly ever run 65, usually 63 max, so I remain very pleased with the performance. Chuck, W5UXH Tommy Alderman wrote: I suspect my days of QRQ are about over as right now I'm doing pretty good to copy at just 70 wpm! My primary interest is getting 'smooth' full QSK at contesting speeds, i.e., 26 to 36 wpm. If I can get that, then I'll be happy. I did drop TX DLY from 20 down to 8 and with the K3 barefoot, it sounds pretty darned good. In the morning I will try this with the Alpha 9500 amp; every time I try it (on 20m), many Eu stations want a 'QSO'. Anyway I am getting close, both at 30 wpm and I just tested with TX DLY set for 8, and at 60 wpm it sounds good. Tom - W4BQF -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Basic-Info-tp6588331p6588729.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Firmware rev. 4.39: New main/sub AF mixer settings, high-res. S-meter read command, etc.
I would also find this useful. I frequently use the K3 LINE OUT for recording both sides of a CW QSO and for using the CW sidetone alone to drive iCW (the AA0HW Internet CW system that works very well for those without home stations so they still have the capability of running some QRQ CW). When recording qso's, if I adjust MON so the sidetone level going to the sound card matches the received signal level in LINE OUT, then the sidetone in my headphones is too loud. As a result I have to get by with a weak sidetone in the recording. The settings of course are dependent on the characteristics of the sound card in use. With my current sound card, I have to turn the LINE setting far higher than the default setting of 10 to produce a reasonable level. My previous computer had a higher sensitivity sound card so levels were more reasonable. If the sidetone level to the LINE OUT could be separately adjusted to match the received audio level in the LINE OUT path, while the actual sidetone to the headphonse (or speakers) is still adjusted by MON, it would be very handy. No big deal, just one more convience added to the K3. As it is, the LINE OUT quality in my K3 setup is still far higher than any previous rigs, none of which even provided the sidetone in the LINE OUT, only loud thumps. The K3 LINE OUT is clean as a whistle. 73, Chuck, W5UXH Las Cruces, NM Peter-64 wrote: Hi Joe and all Perhaps I wasn't clear enough, but I was referring to the TX audio This part is still controlled by the TX monitor settings If there is no monitor audio,(set CCW) there is no audio at the output I will be nice if the TX audio level can be set fixed Peter PC2A -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Firmware-rev-4-39-New-main-sub-AF-mixer-settings-high-res-S-meter-read-command-etc-tp6554895p6575978.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: KPA100 Squeal
I looked at the MP3 file using Goldwave. It appears to me that the 12 KHz component is present only during the tics, not continuously. The tic period is roughly 270 msec (I have no idea what the tic is of course). I zoomed in to a single tic (see PDF of images at the link below). It appears that each tic has a very distinct pattern seen in the individual samples which I suspect is the 12 KHz energy. I have no idea what any of this means. 73, Chuck, W5UXH Las Cruces, NM https://sites.google.com/site/k3lineoutrecordings/ab3ls-mp3-file-analysis Images and comments from Goldwave view of the MP3 file Guy, K2AV wrote: Hi Geoff, below... On Thu, Jun 30, 2011 at 9:24 AM, Geoff Wolf AB3LS lt;liltechdud...@gmail.comgt; wrote: And, for even more information, I analyzed the audio that I recorded and the squeal is right around 12Khz. It peaks at -48dB (louder than the QSK relay clicking) http://imgur.com/V8o5t - image of the analysis AB3LS With your image I realize I had been making some assumptions. I need to fill in some details... Are you listening to the audio in earphones or are you hearing it in the free air. I had been assuming listening with your ears only in free air to miscellaneous sound in the neighborhood of the K3. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-KPA100-Squeal-tp6518460p6534295.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Questions about K3: Reference oscillator calibration
I cannot address you by name or call, but greetings none the less (possibly you are Tom?): I just uploaded a Youtube demo of the procedure that I use to calibrate the K3 on WWV at 10 MHz. In the demo I start off with a nominal 6 Hz error and show how I make use of the toggle between CW-NORMAL and CW-REVERSE to judge when I am exactly zero beat. It is a matter of judging when the tones heard from the WWV carrier (*not* the modulated tones they have on the carrier) are equal as I switch between CW-NOR and CW-REV using the MODE--ALT function to toggle back and forth. Since I was 6 Hz high, I turned the REF CAL frequency *down* from 49.379.780 to 49.379.756 (24 Hz) to accomplish the calibration adjustment. Your exact frequency will of course not be the same as mine. I do not know if this will be sufficiently clear in the demo, but I find it works very well for me. When I did this 3 months ago, my starting error was 25 Hz high. Since calibrating it to 0 Hz error at that time, I have drifted only 6 Hz. Not bad at all (no high stability option installed here). The demo is hopefully found at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SWRlTUG5RM 73, Chuck, W5UXH Las Cruces, NM tomb18 wrote: Hi, I just finished my kit and I seem to have some difficulty determining if the ref. osc. is calibrated correctly. I am using an off air signal (wwv). I can hear the monitor tone and then another one that gets lower in pitch as I turn vfo a. But i can never hear a zero beat. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Questions-about-K3-Reference-oscillator-calibration-tp6515521p6515973.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Uses for Programmable Function Keys
I have M1-M4 programmed so that they do the same function for both TAP and HOLD. That capability really helps me for the several functions I use often. I knew when I ordered the K3 that I did not care for the alternate key operations but I did not realize that M1-M4 would be so useful to overcome the normal behaviour of other buttons. I never touch either the BAND or MODE buttons (since I use the key pad for band selection). Once I get the KPA-500 I will try to position it where I can use the BAND select buttons to simplify band selection even more. Chuck, W5UXH Wes Stewart wrote: (Got tired of switching bands.) -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Uses-for-Programmable-Function-Keys-tp6506608p6508815.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KPA-500 vs others
Keep in mind that might not have been a serious statement. I know there has been at least one occasion where my QSO partner on 30M said something of that nature in jest. Let's hope the one you heard was also in jest. Chuck, W5UXH Vic K2VCO wrote: It would even be nicer if US hams actually OBSERVED this rule! I have even heard a guy telling his QSO partner that he was running a kW! -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA-500-vs-others-tp6503846p6505105.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Kit Build
Thanks for the report! I have been wondering when the reports from the first shipments of assembled units would show up in larger numbers. I was hoping for lots of comments about how happy everyone is. So at least it is good to get the first report of success with the kit version. Chuck, W5UXH Ed Muns, W0YK wrote: I built up a KPA500 kit last night and thought people might want to hear about it, especially those who are eagerly awaiting their own KPA500 kit. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Kit-Build-tp6433105p6433987.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [QRO] KPA500 PIN diodes / High SWR
Back in Feb, Guy (K2AV) wondered in another thread: -- I still wonder what happens to the KPA500 pin diodes when you open with a dit into an unterminated coax and a 20:1 SWR. Wayne and Co are working their magic into a problem that has taken most amps down. -- I would also like to know if they have been able to provide sufficient protection, magical though it would be. That would be a terrific selling point. I know I will eventually hit the key while in a confused state with the KPA500. Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/QRO-KPA500-PIN-diodes-High-SWR-tp6307781p6307781.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [QRO] KPA500 PIN diodes / High SWR
Hi Eric, That is what I hoped to hear. I also had a response off list from a dedicated tester who tested this. It is good to know there is a good chance of surviving an occasional oops. 73, Chuck, W5UXH Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft wrote: Hi Chuck, We immediately protect the amp by going into bypass mode. The microprocessor detects the extreme SWR event and immediately routes the drive signal around the amp, initially though the diodes, and then through the bypass relay after it has switched. This happens in a few milliseconds. While I do not recommend this as a normal operation test, we even have pulled the coax out of the dummy load at 500W during tx to test this, with no ill effects. (If you were at our contest university demo in Italy, you may know how I know this.. ;-) We have not been able to kill the t/r diodes during lab destructive testing or in on-air operation. 73, Eric WA6HHQ -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/QRO-KPA500-PIN-diodes-High-SWR-tp6307781p6307820.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit/amplifier relay
Actually there is a situation where it is very desirable for me. But I understand why most people would prefer to not have this happen. I use this feature for QSK testing, including external QSK switches, for the amp. It is very useful because all timing is exactly the same as if RF were being generated but I can test on top of band activity to hear exactly how well the QRQ QSK is performing without interfering with signals I am on top of. Chuck, W5UXH Scott Ellington wrote: Perhaps there is a situation where it is desirable to do what the K3 does, though it escapes me. In any case, it would be nice to have the option of turning it off in PTT mode. Scott K9MA -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Re-K3-transmit-amplifier-relay-tp6162793p6163562.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TX delay
I am under the impression that the TX DLY setting of 8 msecs does not actually produce an 8 msec delay between KEY OUT going low and start of RF. In non-QRQ mode I think it is on the order of 15 to 17 msecs. The delay does increase approximately 1 msec for each unit increase in TX DLY. In QRQ mode, I measure the delay between 4 and 5 msecs when TX DLY is set to 8, and I believe it does not increase when TX DLY is increased. Chuck, W5UXH Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO wrote: I've also advocated to Elecraft in the past to make available RF delay settings below 8 ms for those of us who have fast QSK amplifier switching using vacuum relays or switching diodes. (My homebrew 6m amplifier T-R speed is well under 4 ms, for example. The new Elecraft amp, I assume, will be even faster.) -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-TX-delay-tp6031150p6035956.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TX delay
According to the manual TX DLY description: ...sets the time from KEY OUT jack .. to first RF in 1-ms steps I agree with your measurement of 9 msecs from KEY IN to RF. Approximately 5 msecs is lost in the K3 between KEY IN going low and KEY OUT going low. At least in QRQ mode. I have not spent time looking at non-QRQ mode since QRQ is the only mode I use. I normally use the KEY OUT jack to control the qsk boxes for amps and it is this delay that is important to me. I have implemented my own KEY OUT line that goes low coincident with KEY IN but goes high again approximately coincident with KEY OUT. This is needed with my miniature relay qsk boxes (a la AD5X) since the ~4 msecs setup time is too close for comfort to the relay switching times. It does not work with my PIN qsk boxes because the diodes switch before the K3 RX is muted, producing nasty clicks! I normally use diode qsk, so the KEY OUT line is fine for that. Chuck, W5UXH P.B. Christensen wrote: I am under the impression that the TX DLY setting of 8 msecs does not actually produce an 8 msec delay between KEY OUT going low and start of RF. At the default 8 ms setting of TX DLY, I measure ~ 9 ms of delay in QRQ mode between the K3's key *input* line and RF. So, I agree that the 8ms figure is not associated with the time measured from the K3's amp key line to the onset of RF. At least, that's the way it measures here. In non-QRQ CW with TX DLY still at 8ms, I measure ~ 16 ms between key closure and RF. Paul, W9AC -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-TX-delay-tp6031150p6036502.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TX delay
Oops. I attributed my relay qsk boxes to AD5X but forgot to attribute some of the diode ones to K7FJ! Chuck, W5UXH W5UXH wrote: This is needed with my miniature relay qsk boxes (a la AD5X) since the ~4 msecs setup time is too close for comfort to the relay switching times. It does not work with my PIN qsk boxes because the diodes switch before the K3 RX is muted, producing nasty clicks! I normally use diode qsk, so the KEY OUT line is fine for that. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-TX-delay-tp6031150p6036544.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TX delay
And at least one of us has thanked Wayne for this. I don't run over 65 wpm, but the keying and qsk performance is excellent in QRQ mode at this speed! One does not need RIT, SPLIT etc. for a good QRQ ragchew, so I am very happy with the K3. Chuck, W5UXH Guy, K2AV wrote: In this mode all the various features that kill the milliseconds in TX/RX state change are disabled so that some can have their 75 wpm QSK. 73, Guy. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-TX-delay-tp6031150p6036729.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - Firmware question / QRQ
Hmm, when I hold SPLIT, I get the N/A QRQ message. I don't really want to use SPLIT for anything but am now curious if there is some other menu setting needed to enable SPLIT in QRQ mode? Chuck, W5UXH wayne burdick wrote: Hi Bruce, You can do SPLIT in QRQ mode, and I recommend this as an alternative to RIT, for now. 73, Wayne N6KR -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Firmware-question-QRQ-tp5970401p5970480.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KPA-500 vs THP
I remain interested in knowing if the KPA-500 will handle QSK with the K3 in CW+ mode at 65 wpm, and if it uses PIN diode switching for QSK. Chuck, W5UXH Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft wrote: Way less than that for both the kit and build versions. We haven't set the final price yet, but the kit version should come in about $1995. We're in field test right now. Stay tuned! 73, Eric -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA-500-vs-THP-tp5954668p5955986.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Nabble
For some days, I have felt like the postings on Nabble are long delayed. I receive the digest emails but prefer to read postings on line. I look at the list of subjects in the digest and then try to find them on Nabble. That used to work fine for me, but now I end up having to look through the digest since I can't find the postings on Nabble until much later. I have also noticed the have not been accepted messages for somewhile now on some postings. That certainly seems strange. Chuck, W5UXH Las Cruces, NM Julian, G4ILO wrote: I'm wondering if there is a connection between that and Nabble saying that our messages have not been accepted by the list yet. I'm also surprised no-one else has noticed. Perhaps we are the only two people who use Nabble? -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Nabble-tp5879478p5880229.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [QRO] Re: KPA 500
I would be interested in knowing if the KPA-500 will work QRQ / QSK (to at least 70 wpm) with the K3 in CW+ mode, where the KEY OUT to RF out timing is fixed at approximately 4 to 5 msecs? Also, does the KPA-500 QSK use all solid state switching (no relays)? Anyone have any information on these details? Chuck, W5UXH wayne burdick wrote: We're shooting for February. The amps are working beautifully, but we need to ramp up for production, and some parts have longer lead times. We'll be announcing pricing, etc., well before then. 73, Wayne N6KR -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA-500-tp5647464p5827372.html Sent from the [QRO] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 AGC THR doesn't go low enough - SOLVED
Did 1.3.7.26 have this problem? I just used it for RF cal a few minutes ago. Chuck, W5UXH Bill W4ZV wrote: If you do get an XG2, be sure to download the latest K3 Utility (at least 1.3.10.11 or later) which correctly saves the parameters. If anyone else has done RF Cal recently (i.e. in September), you should redo it with the new Utility when released. 73, Bill -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-AGC-THR-doesn-t-go-low-enough-tp5614723p5629318.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: AGC THR doesn't go low enough
For me, it is more than a perception. To demonstrate this to myself, I used the XG-2 set at 50 uV (so a good strong S9 signal) and for my normal operating setup I see a tone (from the XG-2) in the presence of very noticeable noise on an oscilloscope when looking at the K3 audio output. I believe I understand why this happens in my case. I believe it is because as a 100% CW 100% QSK type, I am not able to operate with the RF gain at maximum. If I do this, then when I am talking, the band noise is greatly amplified in between elements by the AGC, in the absence of other received signals. For this reason I have spent the last 50 years using the RF gain as my primary level control, keeping it as low as possible for the band conditions and signal I am in QSO with. With the K3, the received signal sounds great with RF gain at max. But it is not possible to think when transmitting with the RF gain at max, due to band noise. With the RF gain turned down to an appropriate level for decent QSK (and the AF gain subsequently set higher), the perceived extra noise is very real as seen on the scope, and typically, in the absence of signals, there is no change in the noise when I ground the antenna. Of course with RF gain at max there is a big change in noise when I ground the antenna. So, I really doubt there is any cure for me. I have played with the AGC SLP and THR parameters per suggestions in the main thread under this subject just in case. But I suspect clean QSK and RF gain at max are just mutually exclusive with the K3. If anyone can point me to a setup where this is not the case, I would be happy to investigate. This is not the case with my FT-1000MP. I have no idea what the reason for this difference is. Unfortunately the MP keying waveform leaves a bit to be desired. Maybe I will finally be forced to try one of the key click mods! Chuck, W5UXH Las Cruces, NM P.B. Christensen wrote: I had resigned myself to living with the AGC off because I can't stand the sound of the audio with it on in CW mode.. I have similar perceptions in CW mode and generally leave AGC turned off. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-AGC-THR-doesn-t-go-low-enough-tp5615857p5620257.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Loud POP in speaker at turn-on (K3)
I have the same thing. It seems to be associated with relay actions. First in one speaker channel, then a bit louder in the other speaker. At power off there is one more pop about like the lower level first pop at power on. Not too bad, but it was surprising to find this happening. Chuck, W5UXH Edward R. Cole wrote: I wonder if any of you K3 owners have this phenomenon: My K3 causes a loud pop-pop in the speaker when I turn on the power. It appears that the volume is at full momentarily on turn on. I am using an external 4-ohm speaker (not amplified). It does this with the internal speaker, as well. it does this even with volume control at minimum. Is this normal? -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Loud-POP-in-speaker-at-turn-on-K3-tp5618309p5618408.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: Duration of button press 'beep' varies
I suspect I have. Several times I was caught off guard by what I was hearing and I believe it was a longer tone from the confirmation beep. I think it was when toggling back and forth between CW-nor and CW-rev for zero beating (SPOT doesn't get close enough for me most of the time) so I was confused between the toggling tones of the incoming signal and the unexpected behavior of the confirmation beep. Since then I have turned off the beep. Chuck, W5UXH Andrew Moore-3 wrote: On my K3/100, firmware 4.05, I've noticed some odd behavior with the audio confirmation beeps depending on how long I hold or tap a button. .. Has anyone else noticed it? --Andrew, NV1B -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Duration-of-button-press-beep-varies-tp5565457p5566918.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] CW Sidetone
I just had my first qso with a K3 and Steve's point was one of the very first things that jumped out at me. I would like to be able to adjust the sidetone level easily while in qso. I could probably get used to the push/hold step if the tone was only present when I key, but having the steady tone will probably drive me crazy along with Steve. Identifying the best level for given band conditions (full qsk of course) is best done while sending. With lots of band noise, I need a higher level of sidetone but with quiet condx, I tend to want a lower level. It would be nice if I could magically remove the compression function and replace it with sidetone level (but no tone if key up). I would then leave that knob set to the sidetone level state except when I need to change power. Chuck, W5UXH This issue has been debated many times on the reflector and both parties have their points. In my opinion, the K3 has it right BUT I need the sidetone level to be available at all times during cw operation without push/hold/tone. The steady tone thing drives me crazy if I'm in a QSO and need to change level. The pitch adjustment with it's steady tone also bugs me but I've gotten used to this. Now I'm permanetly crazy! Steve N4LQ -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/CW-Sidetone-tp5106421p5542721.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] CW Sidetone
Useful information, thanks. Still not exactly what I would like, but much closer. I doubt I would have stumbled on this behavior, so I'm glad I brought it up. Chuck, W5UXH The Smiths wrote: This is an easy one. Push and hold the Mon button as usual then QUICKLY tap your key down... Doing this will shut off the tone, from there you can operate the rig while adjusting the Mon tone level up and down. You can still move the VFO and do other things you need to at the same time incase you aren't settled on the loudness you've selected. No more annoying tone while in a qso. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/CW-Sidetone-tp5106421p5544052.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [K3] Auto power cutback if high SWR?
In the K3/100, what happens if I accidentally key into an open or short circuit, or less drastically into a relatively high SWR (e.g. 5:1). Is there an automatic power cutback? Or do I just get HI CUR / HI SWR warnings but no automatic protection from my dumb errors. If it is the latter case, how dangerous would an open circuit be? I have been known to think I was on the dummy load switch position when it was really an open circuit position. I have also keyed into a shorted coax going to a dummy load. (Not yet with the K3, it is brand new.) I have tried to search the forum and the manual to find a discussion of this. Probably right under my eyes. Thanks, Chuck, W5UXH -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Auto-power-cutback-if-high-SWR-tp5442570p5442570.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
