Re: [Elecraft] New to Elecraft - help with audio settings

[n9tf]

Bob, 

It's an Electric Mic and requires bias. 

Gene 

From: "Bob Nielsen"  

Why would you use bias on the CM500? I thought that it had a dynamic 
microphone. 

73, 

Bob N7XY 


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Re: [Elecraft] New to Elecraft - help with audio settings

[n9tf]

- Original Message -

> "jim" <j...@audiosystemsgroup.com> 

> I strongly disagree with Heil's recommended settings. 


I agree with Jim about NOT using the Heil recommended settings. I use both the 
Heil Gold Elite (hold over from another rig), and the Yamaha CM500. 
I use the exact same EQ settings for both mics. I use the Heil Gold Elite, set 
in the wide position for general rag chewing, and the CM500 for contesting and 
hunting DX. 
EQ settings similar to Jim. 1, 2, and 3 -16, 4 = -3, 5 and 6 = 0, 7 = +12, and 
8 = +9 

Front Panel Mic H. (Heil) Mic gain 30, Compression 17. Gives me 5-6 bars ALC 
and 10DB of Compression. Not to punchy easy to listen to. 
Rear Panel Mic L. Bias On (CM500), Mic gain 3, Compression 17, Gives me the 
same as above ALC and Comp. Crystal clear punchy audio. 

I have Macros M3 and M4 programed to switch between the two mics. 

The same EQ settings end up being a really nice match to both mics and serve 
the purpose for intentions. 

73 Gene, N9TF 
K3S 10057 
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Re: [Elecraft] SSB Net

[n9tf]

Net was on. Quite a few 7's checked in. Eric (WB9JNZ) had good ears as I am 
only 35 miles away and there were many stations I did not hear that Eric did. 
Albeit, my beam was aimed SE at Eric... 

73 Gene, N9TF 
K3S 10057 


- Original Message -

From: "Ramon Tristani" <r.trist...@gmail.com> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Sunday, April 2, 2017 1:16:59 PM 
Subject: [Elecraft] SSB Net 

What happened to the 14.303.5 net today? I did not hear any stations. 

NQ9V 
Ramón E. Tristani 
r.trist...@gmail.com <mailto:r.trist...@gmail.com> 
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nq9v/ <https://www.flickr.com/photos/nq9v/> 
https://tristaniministries.wordpress.com/ 
<https://tristaniministries.wordpress.com/> 
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Re: [Elecraft] KX3 update utility download removed (i.e. blocked) by Norton Internet Security in Windows 7

[n9tf]

I will second that suggestion. Norton takes total control of most all programs 
and sees ham software as virus. Dumped Norton over a decade ago. 

Gene
N9TF
- Original Message -
From: Jim Brown <j...@audiosystemsgroup.com>
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Sent: Sat, 18 Mar 2017 06:05:06 - (UTC)
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 update utility download removed (i.e. blocked) by 
Norton Internet Security in Windows 7

On Fri,3/17/2017 10:52 PM, Oliver Barrett wrote:
> Any suggestions on how to get around this?

Easy. Dump Norton. I see repeated issues with that software screwing up 
ham software.

73, Jim K9YC

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Re: [Elecraft] Mouse-n-Click QSY (was P3 product suggestion)

[n9tf]

Good Stuff Joe. In addition to what you have suggested and done, the other 
thing I would like to be able to do is QSY the XIT frequency offset instead of 
markers A and B moving the VFO. This would be great when working a CW DX 
station working split usually up in a 1-5Khz window. For a QSK span within the 
10Khz span range I usually just us the XIT rather than going into split mode 
with VFO A and B. Not sure that is easily doable though currently since marker 
A and B can only move the VFOs and not XIT frequency. Guess that might be an 
additional firmware mod. Maybe a function command in the P3 to switch markers 
from moving VFO freq to activate moving XIT freq would need to be added? I 
already have PF1 and PF2 programed to turn on XIT and move +1Khz (PF1) and 
+5Khz (PF2). Being able to quickly QSY the XIT with a mouse would be an 
advantage. 

Gene, N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: "Joe Stone (KF5WBO)" <kf5...@wickedbeernut.com> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 6:24:51 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Mouse-n-Click QSY (was P3 product suggestion) 

Let's assume Paul Saffren delivers Mouse-n-Click QSY support with the next P3 
/ PX3 firmware release. What else would you like the mouse to do other than 
QSY the rig's VFO frequency? 

I demonstrated Mouse-n-Click QSY with an Elecraft PX3 and KX3 almost 18 
months ago, 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D32PbJY60Uk 

http://www.wickedstone.com/KF5WBO/Mouse-n-ClickQSY.pdf 

I use the mouse to control marker A (or marker B). Tapping the left mouse 
button, QSY's the KX3's VFO A frequency to the marker A frequency. 
Optionally, tapping the left mouse button also sends an “auto 
spot” command to the KX3 (i.e., automatic zero beating). I found this to be 
very effective with PSK. With a little practice, you can Mouse-n-Click 
quickly. You just need to position the marker within the general vicinity 
of your target. The auto spot command takes care of the rest. It's like 
shooting fish in a barrel. 

If I *hold* (rather than tap) the left mouse button and move the mouse right 
and left, the marker A frequency *and* the KX3's VFO A frequency are 
increased and decreased in one Hertz increments, respectively (i.e., manual 
zero beating). You'd have to gauge for yourself how this compares to moving 
your hand between the mouse and the rig's VFO knob. 

If I hold the middle mouse button (wheel) and move the mouse up and down, 
the span is decreased and increased between 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 
kHz, respectively. I'm effectively zooming in and out. Obviously, a better 
user experience would involve directly controlling the span using the mouse 
wheel without the need to hold the middle mouse button (wheel) or move the 
mouse. This would require a little more firmware. 

I also demonstrated the ability to execute all of the PX3 tap and hold 
functions using a mouse. If I tap the right mouse button over a switch, the 
Tap function associated with the switch is executed. If I hold 
the right mouse button over a switch for longer than 500 ms, the Hold 
function associated with the switch is executed. For example, if you click 
the right mouse button over the Display switch, the display toggles between 
the spectrum and waterfall modes. Functions such as Display and Marker A / 
Marker B execute immediately. The other right-hand switch functions require 
input. I opted to use a keyboard with the mouse for input. 

Any of this of interest? How would you use a mouse (other than to QSY the 
rig's VFO frequency)? 

Joe 
KF5WBO 



-- 
View this message in context: 
http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/P3-Product-suggestion-tp7626927p7626977.html
 
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. 
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Re: [Elecraft] P3 product suggestion

[n9tf]

I also would agree with this suggestion for a mouse function to the P3 for ease 
of QSY. The marker/dial and tap (push) button function on the P3 is OK for 
casual QSYing. But in a contest situation, especially CW, pointing and clicking 
on a signal would be much faster and I would think far more accurate. I know I 
would use this a lot. 
I thought I read another post earlier that from a firmware standpoint it would 
require some additional lines of firmware. If that's the case, sounds like a 
relatively quick enhancement? 
  
73 Gene, N9TF 

- Original Message -

"Jim Cox" jcox...@bellsouth.net 

I fully agree, a mouse click qsy would be wonderful, been waiting for this 
for over a year now..  Jim K4JAF 


-Original Message- 
From: Dauer, Edward 
Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 8:58 AM 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Subject: [Elecraft] P3 product suggestion 

I too would like to see a mouse click QSY, for reasons others have mentioned 
plus one.  It would be far faster, and it could be more accurate.  The knob 
on mine is cruder than the K3's own encoder, requiring a bit of fiddling to 
get it right on.  In addition, when I press the knob sometimes the whole P3 
moves backwards.  I suppose I could strap a brick on top, but a wireless 
mouse would look better. 

Ted, KN1CBR 


Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone 
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Re: [Elecraft] strange request ,,,,, contacts tonight ?

[n9tf]

I'll listen on your 40m freq as 20 will be dead here in the Chicago area at 
that time. 

Gene
N9TF
- Original Message -
From: Bill Steffey NY9H <n...@arrl.net>
To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Sent: Wed, 08 Feb 2017 19:12:34 - (UTC)
Subject: [Elecraft] strange request ,  contacts tonight ?

for our radio room at our local club
( Washington Amateur Communications - WACOM)
we secured a used K3...added the 100 wt amp and away we go,

We've used members 5 K3s radios at field day successfully, however 
some club members have accused me of drinking too much 
purple  'koolaide" and that
the K3   is too confusing 
so tonight we are having a class , a Lab  a session on  which 5 
controls you need to know...  and tomorrow we get into the other controls 

The goal is to get some of these challenged non-believers into the 
fold & on HF.
I am going to attempt to force them to hit the XMIT button...
about 8:30 Eastern...  14.155 ...  or  7.165..

If anyone is out tuning around and could make certain I can find a 
"good one" for these knwicomyasooo guys, I'd appreciate it.
Some are still HF set less, so I am suggesting a used  K3.

thanks,,,


bill ny9h /3 Washington, PA35 mi SW of Pittsburgh

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Re: [Elecraft] PX3 can see my tramsmiited signal

[n9tf]

I have noticed this occasionally, very sporadically with my K3S/P3. It seems to 
happen in SSB mode when contesting and running. I notice that sometimes the P3 
will be sluggish transitioning back to RX from TX. Sometimes it can be a 2 to 3 
second delay. If I begin another CQ call before it completely switches to RX, 
the P3 will display a TX wave form. 
I first noticed it when running N1MM logger, and someone on the reflector here 
gave advise to reduce the polling from N1MM. That seemed to help when running 
N1MM. But there have been a couple of times when not running N1MM, in SSB, I 
notice the hang delay in the P3 from switching back to RX, and have been able 
to reproduce displaying my TX wave form by going back into TX just before it 
seems to want to transition back to RX. 
Not sure what causes the sporadic delay. I'd say 99.9% of the time there is no 
delay in switching. 

Kinda strange, but no biggie. 

Gene 
N9TF 
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: "Don Wilhelm" <donw...@embarqmail.com> 
To: "Don Baucom" <k4...@comcast.net>, "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2017 4:57:20 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] PX3 can see my tramsmiited signal 

Don, 

Theoretically, it should not be present, but practically, it may happen 
and does not represent a problem. 
Nor does it give you a guaranteed accurate representation of your 
transmit signal - it is simply due to some leakage path. It may be OK 
to view as representative of your transmit waveform, but the amplitude 
is not necessarily correct. 

73, 
Don W3FPR 

On 1/26/2017 1:16 PM, Don Baucom wrote: 
> This may have been this way the whole time and I did not notice. When I 
> transmit I can see my signal just to the right of the green line. I don't 
> remember this on the P3 or perhaps I just didn't notice. Is this as it 
> should be 
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Re: [Elecraft] (no subject)

[n9tf]

Could this be the reason. Does the K3S need to be switched off of safe mode for 
the PTT-PTT settings to not change? 
  


PTT/KEY USE WITH THE USB PORT IMPROVED: Some PC applications can control PTT 
and 

KEY at the K3S via the RTS/DTR signals of the USB port. However, use of these 
signals may also allow 

the PC’s USB port initialization to unexpectedly activate transmit at the K3S. 
This can happen if the 

computer is turned on after the K3S, or if the USB cable is not connected. 
There is now a "Safe" mode 

(the default) which disables PTT-KEY transmit until the K3S receives a command 
via USB, such as a 

read of the rig's VFO frequency. To turn on safe mode on/off, go into 
CONFIG:PTT-KEY and tap '1' to 

select "USB SAFE" or "UNSAFE". Exit the menu and turn the K3S off/on. 
Applications that use PTTKEY 

via USB but never send commands may require "UNSAFE" mode. In this case, 
unwanted 

transmit can be avoided by turning the PC on before the K3S. 
  
http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740258E%20K3S%20Owner's%20man%20errata%20A1-2.pdf
 
  
Gene, N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: "Dimitry Borzenko" <4z...@bezeqint.net> 
To: "elecraft" <Elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Monday, October 24, 2016 10:28:25 AM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] (no subject) 

Hello. 
Have check now and find - PTT setting is not saved. 
I have set it to RTS-OFF, after turning off (by power button, not by power 
supply) and turning on again -  setting of PTT is  OFF-OFF. 
s/n of TRX is 10944 with firmware 5.50. 

Regards. 


-Original Message- 
From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don 
Wilhelm 
Sent: Monday, October 24, 2016 5:14 PM 
To: Jeff <w...@arrl.net>; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] (no subject) 

Jeff, 

I have no idea what you are doing wrong, but here are a few thoughts: 
After making the menu change, are you exiting from the menu? Tap the MENU 
button. 
Are you 'pulling the plug" when you say you turn the radio off and back on? 
Just like your computer, you must use the POWER button if the state is to be 
saved. 

Do you have anything plugged into the USB or RS-232 port that might be 
causing a command to reset the menu entry?  Pull out the USB cable and/or 
the RS-232 cable and try again. 

73, 
Don W3FPR 

On 10/24/2016 9:24 AM, Jeff wrote: 
> Good morning.  I am having a problem getting my K3S to save in the config 
menu the setting for PTT-PTT. When I set it for RTS-DTR, hit menu it works 
fine.  Then I turn the radio off and back on and the PTT-PTT setting is back 
to OFF-OFF. What am I doing wrong? How do I get the Config menu to save the 
PTT-PTT setting to RTS-DTR? 
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] K3S QST Article

[n9tf]

Hi Eric, 
Just curious/devils advocate question. Was this unit that was reviewed, picked 
at random from stock at Elecraft? If so, or not, wouldn't it's performance be 
reflective of a population of other units manufactured? Just curious how you 
can say all others shipped were/are OK on 17, when the review unit was not? 
  
Just asking. 
  
Also curious, when radios are factory built and aligned, does Elecraft keep 
some kind of history data base of performance measurements of hose radios. kind 
od like a Certificate of Analysis/Performance, of specifications? 
  
Thanks and 73, Gene N9TF 
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: "Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft" <e...@elecraft.com> 
To: "Jim Rogers" <jim.w4...@gmail.com>, "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Tuesday, October 18, 2016 2:10:17 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S QST Article 

Hi Jim - The 17 m harmonic problem was limited to the single review unit, which 
we corrected. All others shipped were/are OK on 17M. 

73, 

Eric 
/elecraft.com/ 

On 10/18/2016 11:38 AM, Jim Rogers wrote: 
> To all who responded, certainly my friend Don and others 
> 
> "During initial testing, we found that the second harmonic on 17 meters 
> measured 42 dB below the fundamental, well below the specified >50 dB we 
> measured on the other bands. We returned the transceiver to Elecraft for 
> repair and they brought it into spec." Bob Allison, WB1GCM Assistant ARRL 
> Laboratory Manager, QST (Nov 2016) p.50 sidebar. 
> 
> Elecraft K3s Operators manual pg. 9 "Harmonic Spurious Outputs >50 dB below 
> carrier @ 100W (>60 dB on 6 meters). 
> 
> Just sayin' if that is the case with my K3s s/n 10271, send me the necessary 
> board/module(s) to correct the situation and I will be more than happy to 
> make 
> the replacement in my K3s and return the defective units to Elecraft for 
> rework. Just don't ask me to send the whole radio back for something I can 
> accomplish in the field. 
> 
> I am not angry, perhaps a bit dissappointed.  I love my K-Line, which 
> originated with a K3 and when the K3s came out, I elected to buy a K3s rather 
> than upgrade my K3. Tell me my radio meets the spec and does not need repair 
> to meet the spec and I am a happy camper. 
> 
> Jim, W4ATK 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 have low sensitivity on 10 M and 6 M

[n9tf]

I have always done the same thing with signals at the noise floor, or below. 
The biggest change I've noticed by doing this is the band noise is much more 
attenuated through the headphones lying on the table and the signal one is 
trying to copy jumps out in the clear since band noise is attenuated. 
  
73 Gene N9TF 

- Original Message -

  "Fred Jensen" k6...@foothill.net 
  
  
Related subject:  An old CW RO's trick when copying a weak signal in 
noise and QRM is to lay the headphones on the desk face up.  I learned 
this years ago on the Holy Frequency.  I have no idea why it works, but 
it often does.  Maybe one of the acoustic experts here will explain it. 

73, 

Fred K6DGW 
Sparks NV USA 
Washoe County DM09dn 

On 10/14/2016 6:53 AM, brian wrote: 
> This test may be a bit out of date. 
> 
> With digital modes decoding signals ~10 db below the noise these days, 
> one may need at least two S-units of noise. 
> 
> 73 de Brian/K3KO 

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Re: [Elecraft] Microphone

[n9tf]

Bill, 
  
I have the CM500, and am very, very happy with it. I also use a Heil Gold Elite 
that was originally on my ProIII. I use the CM500 way more than the Heil. The 
EQ functionality in the K3S is superb, making any inexpensive microphone sound 
like a million bucks. Don't go overboard on the $$ for a microphone. Put that 
extra $$ towards antennas!! 
  
Gene 
N9TF 
  
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: "Bill DeVore" <maxr...@gmail.com> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Thursday, October 13, 2016 1:37:44 PM 
Subject: [Elecraft] Microphone 

I just completed assembly of my K3S, KAT500, KPA500 and P3. I didn't order a 
microphone from Elecraft. I am considering a Heil PR-10 but will welcome any 
suggestions. 

Bill - W3PNM 
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Re: [Elecraft] SSB Contesting filtering out contesters

[n9tf]

David, 
Jim is spot on about wide dirty signals getting into your passband. The best 
you can do is play with the band width and shift to find a combination that 
limits the interference and makes the signal you are trying to copy, more 
copyable. For SSB contesting I will use the 2.1khz filter with a bit of DSP and 
also some shift to knock down the interfering station. I will say, the K3/S is 
far superior to the 756ProIII I had prior in this regard, from sharp filtering 
and AGC pumping. I can usually knock out a strong wide signal well into the 
passband I am listening, so that I can copy the weaker station. 
  
I am amazed though how close these days SSB contesters "overlap" intentionally 
into someone else's frequency, sharing half of the 2.7khz band width! That's 
one reason I prefer and enjoy CW and RTTY contests over SSB contests. Much more 
pleasing on the ears and temper! 
  
73, Gene N9TF 
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: "David Smith" <dlsm...@harlanonline.net> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Friday, September 2, 2016 12:50:36 PM 
Subject: [Elecraft] SSB Contesting filtering out contesters 

Have a question I feel I know the answer to.  I am an avid contester and 
when contesting thru the years (since 1978 and especially on 40 meters) have 
always had problems filtering out on my receive other contest stations who 
bleed over to my receive frequency their signals so I care hear the weaker 
stations coming back to me, mainly domestic contests.  Thru the years 
operated IC 765, Omni 6+ and now the K3S.  Still with DSP filtering, etc. I 
feel this is a way of life with contesting.  Have had this discussion with 
many of my big gun contesters and we feel this must be a way of life with 
ssb contests.  CW contests are much easier to filter out the side to side 
stations.  My directional antennas on these bands help a lot but guess this 
is the way of life with ssb contesting.  Would like other input from your 
experiences. 

  

Thanks 

  

David, ND4Y  (KS3, KS2, KX2 owner) 



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Re: [Elecraft] OT - 6 meter DX activity in sunspot low

[n9tf]

Gary, 
  
Here is a good read on 6 meter and VHF propagation in general.  
http://www.uksmg.org/content/sporade.htm 
  
Jim, K9YC, has given you some very good info already. I have been active on 6 
meters for probably the last 20 years, and have not seen any drastic 
differences in propagation on 6 between sunspot highs and lows. Although the 
"prime" sporadic E time frame historically is spring and summer months, I have 
actually worked western EU in December on a couple of occasions. As I remember, 
that happened during this sunspot high during the first peak.  
My biggest antenna has been a 3 element at about 40'. I will admit, there was 
propagation in the past, during the first sunspot peak of this cycle, to JA 
land that guys around me in the Midwest were working that I could not even 
hear. Long boom antennas up high with power! 
  
As Jim mentioned, you are closer to the action from the east coast to EU. I saw 
many posts a few weeks ago of EU action on 6 meters from the NE states. Did not 
hear most of those signals here in the Chicago area. 
  
Put up a 3 element and give it a try! 
  
73 Gene N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: "Gary Smith" <g...@ka1j.com> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Monday, August 22, 2016 11:32:42 AM 
Subject: [Elecraft] OT - 6 meter DX activity in sunspot low 

I've made exactly five 6M contacts in the last 36 years, all of them 
a couple months ago during Field Day with my K3s. It piqued my 
interest as I have DXCC from 160 through 10 & this would offer a new 
challenge. 

I discovered DXEngineering has a 3 element, 6M add on that attaches 
to a tribander and gives decent gain. Considering my tribander is 
roof mounted on a ranch, I won't have a great antenna for 6 no matter 
how I slice it. Still, if there is something worthwhile I can do with 
6M, I should. 

So my question is for those who have operated 6M for years and know 
how the band works during the lows of the sunspot cycle; is it like 
17 & up where any DX openings are unobtanium, or does 6M behave 
differently at sunspot lows and DX openings are common? 

Thanks & 73, 

Gary 
KA1J 
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Re: [Elecraft] Field antenna tip

[n9tf]

Here ya go Wayne, a 160m loading coil!   
http://www.slickpic.com/users/GeneGabry/albums/N9TFHamStationPhotos/?wallpaper#2743010
 
  
This was from my one time 160m inverted "U". No matter how many times I tried 
shortening and lengthening the end, 2:1 was the best VSWR I could achieve. 
Until I added 21 turns around a "full" tube of caulk. Must have been the 
dielectric constant of the caulk material ;) 
  
73 Gene, N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: "Wayne Burdick" <n...@elecraft.com> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Cc: k...@yahoogroups.com 
Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 2:45:53 PM 
Subject: [Elecraft] Field antenna tip 

Hi all, 

This weekend I was using the KX2 with a random length of wire tossed in a tree 
and another random length laid on the ground. Normally the ATU (KXAT2) can 
handle just about anything, but this particular combination of lengths wasn't 
working well on 40 m; SWR was still around 3:1 after matching. It probably 
looked like an end-fed half wave to the tuner. 

The wires were connected to a BNC-to-binding post adapter, suggesting a simple 
workaround. Rather than adjust the length of the wire by cutting or splicing, I 
simply reeled in a few feet of it and wrapped it around one of the binding 
posts, forming an inductor of perhaps several uH. 

The ATU was then able to match the antenna on 40 m, as well as the other bands 
(up through 10 m). 

73, 
Wayne 
N6KR 

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Re: [Elecraft] PTT KEY CONFIG setting volatile?

[n9tf]

Hi Gary, 
  
Firmware 5.33 was the improvement for this. See below in my message. (posted 
earlier this morning). If you have Unsafe mode toggled these settings will not 
default back to OFF-OFF. 
  
Even in the Safe mode, I have noticed the rig needs to have been powered down 
for more than a few seconds/minutes to reset to OFF-OFF. A test I ran this 
morning was to turn off rig "first" then power supply off and kept off for 5 
minutes each, SAFE MODE and UNSAFE MODE, powered up the supply first then the 
K3S, and found in SAFE MODE the PTT-KEY had reset to OFF-OFF, but not in UNSAFE 
MODE. 
  
  


"* PTT/KEY USE WITH THE USB PORT IMPROVED: PC applications can activate PTT and 
KEY at the K3S via the USB port's RTS/DTR signals. However, initial setup of 
the rig's USB port by the PC may cause pulsed or continuous activation of the 
transmitter. This can happen if the computer is turned on after the K3S, or if 
the USB cable is not connected. There is now a "Safe" mode (the default) which 
disables PTT-KEY transmit until the K3S receives a command via USB, such as a 
read of the rig's VFO frequency. To turn on safe mode on/off, go into 
CONFIG:PTT-KEY and tap '1' to select "USB SAFE" or "UNSAFE". Exit the menu and 
turn the K3S off/on. Applications that use PTT-KEY via USB but never send 
commands may require "UNSAFE" mode. In this case, unwanted transmit can be 
avoided by turning the PC on before the K3S." 

  

73 Gene, N9TF 

K3S 10057 

  

- Original Message -

From: "Gary Smith" <g...@ka1j.com> 
To: "elecraft" <Elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Monday, May 23, 2016 1:57:55 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] PTT KEY CONFIG setting volatile? 

I just checked on my K3s and after the multiple off/on cycles, the 
PTT-KEY was and still remains set to RTS-DTR and I'm using the latest 
firmware. 

Gary 
KA1J 


>   It may be something unique to the K3S.  My older K3 didn't do it, but 
> the new K3S (#10641) always reverts to PTT KEY OFF-OFF on a power cycle. 
>   must be a glitch in the FW.  It IS completely repeatable as the OP 
> stated.  Definitely call Elecraft Support on it. 
> 
> Jim - W0EB 
> 
> -- Original Message -- 
> From: "Gene Gabry" <n...@comcast.net> 
> To: "'danny.higgins'" <danny.higg...@keme.co.uk>; 
> elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
> Sent: 5/23/2016 7:17:03 AM 
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] PTT KEY CONFIG setting volatile? 
> 
> >Same thing happens here with K3S SN 10057. I have no digital SW running 
> >or rig control at the time of power down. If I set PTT to DTR and power 
> >down for some period of time, PTT defaults back to OFF when power up. 
> >Always done that since day one. I thought there was some update done in 
> >latest firmware to PTT-KEY line to default those to OFF so when PC was 
> >restarted K3S would not go into TX? 
> > 
> > 
> >>> 
> >>>  At 07:42 PM 5/22/2016, Cady, Fred wrote: 
> >>>>  That doesn't sound right.  I don't think mine has ever changed. 
> >>>>  Cheers, 
> >>>>  Fred KE7X 
> >>>> 
> >>>>   
> >>>>  From: Elecraft <elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net> on behalf of Ken 
> >>>>  Arck <k...@arcomcontrollers.com> 
> >>>>  Sent: Sunday, May 22, 2016 4:23 PM 
> >>>>  To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
> >>>>  Subject: [Elecraft] PTT KEY CONFIG setting volatile? 
> >>>> 
> >>>>  I notice the PTT KEY selection under CONFIG doesn't appear to be 
> >>>>  non-volatile as when the radio is power cycled, it always reverts 
> >>>>to 
> >>>>  OFF - OFF.  I'd like it to stay set to DTR -- RTS but it doesn't 
> >>>> 
> >>>>  Even if I leave 13.8 to the radio, turning it OFF and back ON and 
> >>>>  that setting reverts. 
> >>>> 
> >>>>  Ken 
> >> 
> >> 
> 
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> Message delivered to g...@ka1j.com 
> 



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Re: [Elecraft] Sherwood's receiver performance table updated

[n9tf]

:) Best darn investment I ever made on a ham radio! Keep the hits coming 
Elecraft! 
  
73 
Gene, N9TF 
K3S 10057 
P3 

- Original Message -

From: "Wayne Burdick" <n...@elecraft.com> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Cc: k...@yahoogroups.com 
Sent: Monday, April 25, 2016 9:55:57 AM 
Subject: [Elecraft] Sherwood's receiver performance table updated 

Rob has added the IC-7851, IC-7300, and IC-9100 to his table: 
  
    http://www.sherweng.com/table.html 

73, 
Wayne 
N6KR 


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Re: [Elecraft] K3s AFSK frequencies

[n9tf]

I have had really good luck using the 500hz roofing filter and adjusting down 
to 400Hz with DSP for rag chewing. In contests I will adjust to 350 or even 
300Hz, depending on how close signals get bunched together, with very good 
decode. 
I've also made adjustments to AGC, which have also been an improvement. AGC DCY 
- soft, AGC SLP - 6, AGC THR - 16. All other AGC settings at default. These 
settings in my location, seem to work the best for me so far. 
  
Gene, N9TF 
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: j...@kk9a.com 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Wednesday, April 13, 2016 8:56:06 AM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3s AFSK frequencies 

The optimal band width may depend on how crowded the band is. Wide 
filtering may work well for a DXer trying to copy a super weak signal on a 
quiet band. I only use RTTY in contests when the bands are packed and I 
have had great results using very narrow roofing filters. 

John KK9A 


from: Dave Hachadorian 
Tue Apr 12 23:54:57 EDT 2016 

Current thinking is to use a fairly wide filter for RTTY.  The 
software filters that are applied in the sound card are much 
narrower, about 50 Hz wide.  Lately I've been using the 2.7 KHz 
roofing filter, with DSP bandwidth set to about 600 Hz. 


Dave Hachadorian, K6LL 
Yuma, AZ 

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Re: [Elecraft] P3 Ref Lvl saving

[n9tf]

WOW! I wish my noise floor was only that noisy on 160!! I'm happy when it goes 
down to -110DBm. I average about -100DBm!! 
Gene, N9TF 

  
Hi Bill, 

Make sure you have SpanScale turned off, and then try it.  I just tried it 
here on my bench units.  I put the K3 on 160 and set the RevLvl to 139 (it's 
noisy here).  Then power cycled the radio and P3.  The P3 came up with 139 
on 160 meters. 

-Paul 



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View this message in context: 
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Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. 
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Re: [Elecraft] OT noise on 17m

[n9tf]

Here's noise from my neighbors new washing machine (Samsung).  
http://www.slickpic.com/users/GeneGabry/albums/N9TFHamStationPhotos/?wallpaper#11792105
 
Repeats about every 17Khz. From about 20Mhz-22.5Mhz. Most of all the RF 
pollution in my neighborhood generates garbage on 15m. Have not seen any yet of 
17m. At least the washing machine garbage only lasts for about 60 minutes two 
to three times a week (when I'm in the shack on 15m). 
  
Just wait until buck/boost DC-DC converters and switchers are deployed more 
prolific at 1Mhz and higher. Company I work for makes the line choke and power 
inductors used in those switchers. They are worse noise generators than the 
lower frequency switchers 50khz-500khz. It's only going to get worse :( 
  
Gene, N9TF  

From: "HankP" <pfizenma...@q.com> 
To: "Robert G Strickland" <rc...@verizon.net> 
Cc: "Elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2016 12:46:56 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT noise on 17m 

The stuff I have run into that is in the 16 to 18 khz range includes furnace 
/air conditioner  motor controls and  washing machines. 

Of course those are intermittent which is also a clue- although 
there are some furnace/A/C blowers that stay on at low speed all 
the time for circulation.   

If you have a P3 - decrease the span  and most of the newer stuff 
at certain parts of the cycle will actually be several spikes in 
each group of noise. 

Hank K7HP 



   


- Original Message - 
Can someone help me understand the "noise" on 17m - and elsewhere - 
right now? It repeats every 17kc, very strong. Perhaps some sort of over 
the horizon radar? Is it general or just something in my neighborhood? 
Thanks much. 
...robert 
-- 
Robert G Strickland, PhD ABPH - KE2WY 
rc...@verizon.net.usa 
Syracuse, New York, USA 
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Re: [Elecraft] Need a second set of eyes... WAS: Re: Price Increase Alert for Feb 4th.

[n9tf]

When I am running in a contest, the 400hz filter is perfect to be able to catch 
callers calling above and below my call freq. But, when I S or am trying to 
work a Dxpedition station, I am glad I have the 250hz filter, especially for a 
DXpedition. I will also then typically use additional DSP filter to tighten 
down to 150hz. This really helps especially when the frequency cops get going, 
as most of them will be outside of that narrow of a passband. I'm glad I went 
with the tighter filter for this purpose. 
  
Gene N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: "Bill Parris" <bparri...@nc.rr.com> 
To: "Michael Murphy" <m...@ki8r.com>, "Clay Autery" <caut...@montac.com> 
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 2:53:54 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Need a second set of eyes... WAS: Re: Price Increase
Alert for Feb 4th. 

I agree  I contest a lot, but seldom use the 250.  If I were on the 
other side of the pileup it would probably be a good idea. 

Bill, AA4R 

-Original Message- 
From: Michael Murphy 
Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2016 2:43 PM 
To: Clay Autery 
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Need a second set of eyes... WAS: Re: Price Increase 
Alert for Feb 4th. 

When I ordered my K3 13 months ago, I spent time talking it through with 
one of the guys at Elecraft.  I considered swapping the 2.7 for the 2.8 
filter, but didn't.  Now I don't see a reason to and am glad I didn't 
bother. 

As for the 250 CW filter, I do contest, but have used it maybe once or 
twice since I've had the radio.  If I had it to do over again, I would have 
stopped at the 400hz filter. 

Mike - KI8R 

On Thu, Jan 28, 2016 at 2:04 PM, Clay Autery <caut...@montac.com> wrote: 

> OK...  so I don't have time to complete my stack of cash for my K-Line 
> order...  I've paired it back.  Anyone interested in offering me a 
> second pair of eyes to see if I am making any glaring mistakes in 
> spec'ing out my reduced order? 
> 
> Here's a link to a screen shot of my shopping cart: 
> 
> *http://www.montac.com/pics/Elecraft_Draft_Order.jpg 
> * 
> Here's the Executive summary: 
> K3S/100K  Transceiver with 100 Watt amp module 
> KRX3A-K  Secondary Receiver 
> KAT3A-K  Internal Antenna tuner 
> MH-2  Hand Mic 
> SS30DV  Power Supply 
> 
> And here's the filters I am going to end up with: 
> FL1 - Reserved for FM/Reserved for FM 
> FL2 - KFL3A-6K/KFL3A-6K  (AM/eSSB) 
> FL3 - KFL3A-2.8_2.7sw/KFL3A-2.8_2.7sw  (trade-up to 2.8kHz/8-pole on 
> both receivers) 
> FL4 - KFL3A-400/KFL3A-400  (CW... yes, this "no-code" is diligently 
> working to achieve 25wpm before the end of summer) 
> FL5 - KFL3A-250/KFL3A-250 (CW) 
> 
> Lot's of other stuff I'd LIKE to have, but just can't do it.  Anyone 
> think I should do anything different?  I'm kind of capped right around 
> this total. 
> 
> Thanks 
> 
> __ 
> Clay Autery 
> MONTAC Enterprises 
> (318) 518-1389 
> 
> On 1/27/2016 5:02 PM, Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft wrote: 
> > Early alert for our Elecraft list readers: 
> > 
> > We're finally implementing the planned price changes that we first 
> > mentioned late last year. We ended up delaying that change due to both 
> > the large holiday season order rush and several ham shows, both of 
> > which always generate a lot of sales sales activity and keep our sales 
> > team very busy. 
> > 
> > As noted before, our costs are going up as our vendors increase their 
> > prices to us and our labor costs also increase. (Its a never ending 
> > battle to keep costs down as economic activity has picked up the last 
> > two years.) We've been absorbing all of these increases, but now we 
> > have hit the point where we  must increase prices slightly on a number 
> > of our products. 
> > 
> > The prices will change on next Thursday, Feb. 4th.  Our on-line order 
> > forms will update with the new pricing at that time. 
> > 
> > Please resist the urge to call or email our sales / support people 
> > about which specific products will be changing or how much the changes 
> > will be, as they do not have this information. (We're still in the 
> > middle getting everything entered.) 
> > 
> > Of course, all orders received -prior- to the Feb 4th increase will be 
> > charged at the lower pre-increase pricing when they ship. 
> > 
> > 73, 
> > Eric 
> > /elecraft.com/ 
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Re: [Elecraft] Koss SB-45 Headset, update on comfort

[n9tf]

Gus, 
  
I think the term bias, or bias voltage is a pretty generic term when meaning 
applying a voltage or current to turn on a device, in this instance a 
microphone element that requires voltage to operate. 
  
http://www.learningaboutelectronics.com/Articles/What-is-bias-voltage 
  
73 Gene, N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: "Augie \"Gus\" Hansen" <augie.han...@comcast.net> 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Wednesday, January 6, 2016 1:02:58 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Koss SB-45 Headset, update on comfort 

Hi Jim, 

> Electret and dynamic mics are equally good for ham radio. Use whatever 
> comes with the headset you like and be happy. All that matters is that 
> electret mics need bias turned on and dynamic mics do not. 

Do you know why Elecraft calls the power provided to an electret element 
BIAS? Unlike the large form condenser microphone elements that need both 
polarizing potential and preamp power, usually provided via a "phantom 
power" circuit, an electret element is permanently polarized. The power 
applied via the phantom circuit is actually providing only the drain 
voltage for the FET preamp in the electret microphone capsule, not any 
kind of biasing voltage. 

Of course we have similar terminology used in systems that provide 
control voltages or operating power to remote equipment: The so-called 
BIAS-TEE used to inject and extract power over a coaxial cable, for 
example. 

I haven't found any official documentation for these types of circuits 
that uses the BIAS moniker. Are there any references that you might 
point to? 

Cheers, 
Gus Hansen 
KB0YH 

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Re: [Elecraft] Rick & antennas...

[n9tf]

John, 
  
As a user of an 80M OCF dipole, I knew it was going to be a compromise. My goal 
was to be able to put up an antenna on a small lot that would get me on the air 
on 80 and 40. I don't have room to run even a full 1/2 wave dipole for 80m, or 
a lot of wires, but the OCF dimensions (45'/90') fit in to my lot with a bit of 
zig-zagging. I don't use the OCF on anything higher than 40m as I have a small 
beam for the higher bands. 
Yes, common mode current can be a problem if not designed properly. I use a 4:1 
current balun and an additional 10 turn choke at the feed point, in addition to 
a single point ground system. No issues at this location. 
I agree simple dipoles or fan dipoles would be desired. In my case, I do not 
have 66' in both directions, of the direction of interest, to string a full 
size 80m dipole. But I can get 45' in one direction and the 90' leg does take a 
turn at 75'. 
Point is, we put up what we can, understanding the compromises (antenna theory) 
in the space we have. 
  
One point of relative (A/B) comparison I can share . The 80m OFC is resonate of 
course on 17 and 12 meters. I have a rotatable trap dipole (D3W) on the tower 
for 12/17/30m at 42'. The OFC is at 35'. When comparing signal strength of the 
two antennas to EU, which is where the OFC is broad side to on 17m, the OFC is 
about 20DB less signal strength than the rotatable trap dipole. So yes, the OCF 
is a compromise. 
  
There has been one benefit to the OCF in contesting, and that is in the NAQP 
and SS contest. With it's height above ground at only 35', it works well for 
close in state side contacts on 20/40/80. It comes down to what the operators 
goals are, and understanding antenna theory. 
  
73 Gene N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: j...@kk9a.com 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2015 7:16:30 AM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Rick & antennas... 

How do you know that it works well?  Low SWR or even working DX is no 
indication of antenna performance 
I really do not understand the 
popularity of OCF antennas. They can have considerable common mode current 
making them susceptible to feedline radiation and RF in the shack.  Simple 
dipoles or fan dipole for the desired bands is a much better option. 

John KK9A 

Wed Dec 9 18:06:50 EST 2015 
Previous message (by thread): [Elecraft] P3 cw waterfall 
Next message (by thread): [Elecraft] Rick & antennas... 

The Buckmaster is recommended to be installed as an inverted V. That's 
sweet that the E Tuner gets along with it but I have the 3,000w version 
and run full legal limit on all bands (where allowed) that it operates on 
without the need to use my tuner. Not high performance eh? Funny stuff. I 
suggest anyone considering this fine antenna consult the  eHam reviews of 
it by people who actually own the antenna & have experience with it. 
Comparing a beam antenna to a wire is sort of ridiculous IMO for what 
should be more than obvious reasons. Lotsa haters out there as usual. 

kd0bcf 

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Re: [Elecraft] P3 transmit monitor

[n9tf]

Hi Barry, 
  
I have been using a spectrum scope long before purchasing my K3S with P3. For 
just day to day operating, I have become accustomed to being able to see at a 
glance the activity on the band that I am operating.   
It really comes in handy for contesting and working DX pile ups that are 
working split. In the later case, it helps to spot the stations the DX has 
worked and allows one to track how the DX station is moving through the split 
frequency range. 
  
I mainly use it as tool for contesting and DX operations working split. 
Although, it's also nice to be able to see the other guys TX wave form and 
bandwidth. It's amazing how many dirty signals are out there, but that's 
another topic! 
  
73 Gene, N9TF 
  
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: "Barry N1EU" <n1eu.ba...@gmail.com> 
To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 8:10:29 AM 
Subject: [Elecraft] P3 transmit monitor 

I'd like to hear from folks who've owned the P3 transmit monitor for a 
while.  Can you please comment on why you do (or don't) find it useful 
in day-to-day operating?  Is it a tool you use often, just a cool toy, 
etc ??? 

Thanks & 73, 
Barry N1EU 
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Re: [Elecraft] P3 transmit monitor

[n9tf]

Bill, 
  
I wrote back to Barry off line to apologize for misreading his subject line, 
and explained I did not have the Transmit Monitor for similar reasons that Jim 
Brown has already highlighted. 
I apologize to the list. Should have read the material more closely before 
responding. 
  
73 Gene, N9TF 

- Original Message -

From: "Nr4c" <n...@widomaker.com> 
To: n...@comcast.net 
Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 12:17:44 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] P3 transmit monitor 

But what do you think of the "Transmit Monitor" on the P3 display?  The 
original question! 

Sent from my iPhone 
...nr4c. bill 


> On Dec 9, 2015, at 12:41 PM, n...@comcast.net wrote: 
> 
> Hi Barry, 
>   
> I have been using a spectrum scope long before purchasing my K3S with P3. For 
> just day to day operating, I have become accustomed to being able to see at a 
> glance the activity on the band that I am operating.   
> It really comes in handy for contesting and working DX pile ups that are 
> working split. In the later case, it helps to spot the stations the DX has 
> worked and allows one to track how the DX station is moving through the split 
> frequency range. 
>   
> I mainly use it as tool for contesting and DX operations working split. 
> Although, it's also nice to be able to see the other guys TX wave form and 
> bandwidth. It's amazing how many dirty signals are out there, but that's 
> another topic! 
>   
> 73 Gene, N9TF 
>   
> K3S 10057 
> 
> - Original Message - 
> 
> From: "Barry N1EU" <n1eu.ba...@gmail.com> 
> To: "elecraft" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
> Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 8:10:29 AM 
> Subject: [Elecraft] P3 transmit monitor 
> 
> I'd like to hear from folks who've owned the P3 transmit monitor for a 
> while.  Can you please comment on why you do (or don't) find it useful 
> in day-to-day operating?  Is it a tool you use often, just a cool toy, 
> etc ??? 
> 
> Thanks & 73, 
> Barry N1EU 
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noise Blanker problem?

[n9tf]

Great post Guy, 
  
I also encountered occasional noise on 160, (neighborhood Christmas 
decorations!) during last weekends contest as well. I found similar settings 
worked as you have described below. In addition, I found that switching in the 
notch filter and manually adjusting the notch frequency just a couple hundred 
hertz plus or minus from my CW offset of 600hz, and adding in some NR, I could 
reduce a bit more of the hash from the NB. I was typically listening on the 
250hz roofing filter and narrowed it down with DSP to 200hz. Point being, lots 
of flexibility in adjustments to kill much of the unwanted hash. 
  
 73 Gene, N9TF 
  
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: "Guy Olinger K2AV" <k2av@gmail.com> 
To: "Larry - K1UO" <k...@tds.net> 
Cc: "Elecraft Reflector" <elecraft@mailman.qth.net> 
Sent: Tuesday, December 8, 2015 2:45:13 PM 
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noise Blanker problem? 

Hi Larry, 

[This response is posted only to Elecraft Reflector. Posting to more than 
one reflector with the same email post gets you 1) dunned by the Elecraft 
Admin -- already done by Eric 2) dunned by experienced general readership 
of all reflectors, who long, long ago figured out cross-posting just got 
people confused. Consider yourself (in a kindly way of course) doubly 
dunned.] 

To Larry and all other fellow noise sufferers equipped with K3/K3S 
transceivers... 

Short Version: 

See if the AM BC crud goes away when the NB LEVEL has IF set to OFF. The 
crud is a necessary possible artifact of IF blanking in the K3/K3S. This 
"IF" process in the K3/K3S is at root the same as 1950's noise blanking in 
tube gear, but with modern improvements. 

Long Version: 

The K3 or K3S (referred to as K3 in the rest of the post) has two separate 
noise blanker processes: IF and DSP. Depending on settings with a hold on 
the single NB button [LEVEL] you can have none, just IF, just DSP, or both 
processes running. If they are both on, they work in series. The IF NB 
works first, in broadband circuits before the roofing filters. The DSP NB 
works second, after the RX low IF analog to digital conversion. The DSP NB 
has algorithms doing its magic, and is buried in the number soup that is 
SDR. 

The IF NB is basically the same NB in the tube ham receivers I used as a 
teenager. A strong pulse is detected early in the RX string, and is used to 
cut off the incoming broadband signal for the duration of the pulse. There 
are refinements to that process, but at root blanking cuts off some part of 
the RF/IF string for the duration of the noise pulse. It is possible for 
the RF peaks of non-noise signals to trip the blanking threshold. 

The modern, mostly digital K3 still uses the ancient IF blanking because it 
still works for certain kinds of noise. Usefully, by messing with 
preamp/attenuator settings and the width and delay of the blank, the oldie 
but goodie blanking can be "tuned" to better blank certain kinds of noise. 
We get to "tinker" with the NB and discover the best setting for a certain 
kind of noise. 

But the IF NB still has inescapable aspects of blanking, drawbacks when I 
was a teen and the same now: modulating the RF or pre-filter IF with the 
blanking pulse, and MUST have sidebands and intermodulation from the 
process. Some of those artifacts of blanking will sound like chewed up 
signals that are NOT in the passband. This is because the blanking pulse 
has to be applied in a broadband place where the noise pulses are still 
extremely sharp and narrow. 

Anything loud making it through the front end bandpass filters can be in 
the NB IF process blanking artifacts. On 160 meters that easily involves 
strong local AM broadcast. In CW contests with many strong CW signals 
around the band, you can hear beeple bopple from intermodulating CW signals 
or crud from "spread out" QRN. The thinking? The crud, while possibly 
irritating, is far less of a problem than the line or spark noise that is 
being blocked. The K3 IF blocking does have sophisticated amenities added 
to the RF/IF blanking which improve on the old tube type versions which 
generally were either just on or off with no adjustments. 

I have found that a pernicious recurring line noise on 160 around my QTH is 
well dealt with using NB, IF set to narrow-3 and DSP to 1-7 or 2-7. This 
will produce a variation in effectiveness with frequency, usually with a 
noise null or two somewhere in the CW frequencies 5-10 kHz wide. The 
overall noise drop in these nulls is 5, 6, 7 S units, dropping down to the 
level of regular band noise without the buzz. There will be some blanker 
trash that comes and goes, but I am rescued from giving up on copying 
anything not S9 or louder and am able to operate the contest at 93% or so, 
placing my run frequencies in the K3 NB noise null. 

To those trying to get rid of a certain noise, remember that there are 
2

Re: [Elecraft] IC-756 ProIII & K3S

[n9tf]

Hi Jeff, 
  
I just recently went from the PROIII to the K3S. Although, my PROIII did NOT 
have the Inrad roofing filters. 
  
The gotta haves for me were 100 watts, antenna tuner, 250hz 500hz 2.1khz 2.7Khz 
and 6Khz roofing filters, and P3 Panadapter. I am a contester and DX chaser.  
I actually ordered with 200hz 5 pole filter, but that went unavailable during 
the time my unit went into production. The combination of the 500hz and 250hz 
filters serve my purpose well. I chose not to go with the second RX at this 
time as I never used the dual watch on the proIII, and got very used to using 
the spectrum scope and switching either back and forth between split or RIT. I 
just never felt comfortable listening to TX/RX freqs simultaineously. Just like 
I struggle trying to carry on a verbal conversation and coping CW, one or the 
other please! Just my preference, and I'm comfortable with it :) 
My main focus is contesting and was looking to improve RX capability on CW and 
RTTY/digital. Also wanted to get rid of all the sound card interconnects for 
AFSK operation. Secondary was improving SSB blocking even a little bit over the 
PROIII. The K3S has proven to be all and more of what I was looking for. CW and 
AFSK RTTY are 10 times better to work in contests. So, so much more pleasant on 
the brain and ears! SSB turned out even better of an improvement than I guessed 
there would have been. Lots more flexibility in RX tweaking with NR/AGC/RX EQ 
and roofing filters band width for all modes than was capable with PROIII. It 
used to be if I could hear them I could work them. Now I'm finding, I can hear 
more than I can work, quickly! I have found another layer or two that was 
always there but couldn't hear. 
It all comes down to what you "gotta have" for your operating style. For me the 
gotta haves were better RX filtering/flexibility, P3 to see the band, 100 watts 
and antenna tuner, and able to get all the sound card cables and interface 
stuff out of the way. 
  
BTW, PROIII's are still holding value pretty well. I don't think their value 
will change much between now and spring. Although, if you have another rig to 
keep you on the air till then, you could sell now just to make sure. 
I purchased my PROIII used in 2009 and could have sold it for a bit more than I 
paid, but ended up selling it to my son for a little less. They are holding 
value, "I think" due to the price tag of newer rigs hitting the market, keeping 
the price tag somewhat inflated for the older rigs with attractive 
functionality, IMHO. 
  
You will not regret a K3 or K3S. 
  
73 and good luck! 
  
Gene, N9TF 
  
K3S 10057 

- Original Message -

From: w...@flashdog.us 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Wednesday, September 9, 2015 1:10:56 PM 
Subject: [Elecraft] IC-756 ProIII & K3S 

Hello Everyone, 

I am considering selling my Icom IC-756 ProIII, with Inrad roofing filter, to 
help pay for a future K3S. While at the moment I am somewhat inactive, due to 
work and my remodeling of my home,  I don’t see myself getting a K3S until 
Spring. 

However, I the more I wait, the more the ProIII the value declines. I still 
have another rig to use. 

Question:  In replacing the ProIII, what would be the best most economical add 
ons to the K3S? I really like the fact that the Pro III has the “Dual Watch” 
feature and I use a multi-band antenna via Icom remote antenna “tuner” (AH-4). 
I would to use the K3S with an SGC coupler (I think I’ve read that you can 
program the K3 to provide 10 watts to “tune” the antenna). 

I”d like to hear from anyone who has gone from the Pro III to the K3 or K3S and 
get their advice (all others are welcome, too). 

Tnx & 73, 

Jeff 
wb0m 
Nebraska 
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Re: [Elecraft] K3- 630 meters

[n9tf]

AWESOME, Ken! Now I gotta figure my entry into the 630 meter fray. The XYL is 
going to kill me!!! 
73 Gene N9TF 
  
  
K3S-10057 

- Original Message -

From: Ken Roberson via Elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
To: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Tuesday, August 18, 2015 9:43:40 AM 
Subject: [Elecraft] K3- 630 meters 

Hello all, 
Good condx on 630 meters 
With the K3 and homebrew power amp running 5 watts ERP on 630 meters ( 475.710 
khz )And 60 ft vertical with top loading. 
Last night ( 8/18/15 ) this station was decoded by two stations in Australia ( 
VK2DDI - 13987 km )And ( VK2XGJ - 13962 km ). 
630M is the new top band. 
73 all K5DNL/WG2XXM 
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Re: [Elecraft] Rig Insurance

[n9tf]

Fortunately, my homeowners insurance (State Farm) will pay for that loss up to 
and including if the rig that was damaged is no longer available, will pay for 
whatever has taken it's place. Had a test of this back in 1999, when I took a 
direct hit. Insurance paid 100% NEW replacement cost. for all radios and 
antennas. It was Christmas in May, sorta. Policy still the same, with same 
coverage. 
Interesting side note of the lightening strike, only rig not damaged at all was 
the one connected to an Alpha Delta 2 position antenna switch box with arc 
plug. Three other rigs, power supply and a bunch of other accessories on the 
bench became toast. 
  
Gene, N9TF 
  
K3S-F 10057 

- Original Message -

From: ae...@carolinaheli.com 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Friday, August 7, 2015 10:13:48 AM 
Subject: [Elecraft] Rig Insurance 

I'm wondering with such a large investment in gear if anyone has special 
insurance just for their station? I'm pretty OCD about disconnecting my 
station when not in use (major pain) and actually had my coax arch connector 
arc over recently (I keep rubber covers over the connectors when not 
connected) when a storm was near and there was a lightning hit up the road. 

  

It would be a real shame to invest in a lifetime rig and lose it to 
something silly like a storm/fire..etc. 

Just wondering what folks do and their experiences protecting their 
investments. 

Jerry / AE4PB 

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Re: [Elecraft] K3S solder type?

[n9tf]

Hi Jer, 
  
Solder spidering, or Tin whiskers has always been an issue, even when 60/40 
SnPb solder was the standard. In the past decade, the switch to non lead, or 
RoHS compliant solders has, mandated the removal of Pb in solder. With the 
absence of Pb and a much higher content of Sn, typically 96.5% of the solder 
formulation, tin whiskering has become more of a taking point and in some 
cases, problems in micro and especially nano circuits. 
The typical formulation for solder paste (for reflow) and solder pots is 
96.5%Sn, 3%Ag, and .5%Cu. It's the brighteners in the Sn that are crucial to 
midagate the tin whisker growth. 
Although I did not see anything on the Elecraft web site that stated RoHS 
compliant, I would bet that their PCBs are being soldered with this type of 
RoHS compliant material, as Elecraft is selling into the EU marketplace, where 
these restrictions are enforced. 
  
As far as tin whiskering issues for the type of PCB's that are designed into 
these products, I do not think one should fear and shorting issues due to tin 
growth, as the pad spacing and line spacing is not at a critical spacing. Tin 
whisker growth is a very slow process, and we humans will probably be gone 
before anything like that would present a problem, especially in the normal 
conditions we operate the gear. 
  
I would be more concerned about cold solder connections as the newer RoHS 
solders require higher temps to reflow. That too has pretty much been handled 
over time with pretty precise solder reflow apparatus, and tweaks over the 
years on the paste and solder formulations. 
  
73 Gene, N9TF  

- Original Message -

From: Jerry Moore je...@carolinaheli.com 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Wednesday, August 5, 2015 11:33:53 AM 
Subject: [Elecraft] K3S solder type? 

Anyone know the type of solder used in the K3S board manufacture? I've been 
reading up on environmentally safer solder and all of the reliability issues 
that result from the solder spidering over time. Anyone happen to know? 

I'm sure it's not an issue but it came to mind. I tried to call Elecraft to 
ask but they are busy helping customers who need actual help with their 
units J 

  

Jer 

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Re: [Elecraft] I wonder how many folks have had buyers remorse on a K3/K3S purchase?

[n9tf]

No regrets or buyers remorse here at all Jerry! 
Although the box is not flashy as some with all the outboard candy, it's 
what's under the hood that counts, and the reputation of Elecraft support, 
which has not been disappointing. I thought long and hard before making my 
purchase, all the way back when the K3 was first introduced. In a way I'm very 
glad I waited, as the K3S is a result of many, many improvements from operator 
suggestions and some beta testing. As I compared the under the hood 
capability and flexibility for future expansion with other rigs, less expensive 
(FTDx 3000, TS590SG), and more expensive (FTDx 5000, TS990s), the K3S kept 
winning, for my operating style. 
I personally like the aesthetics and compact appearance of the K3/K3S platform. 
  
I am a casual contester who's scores are to support a larger club cause. My 
more serious enjoyment is DXing, CW and digital, and following Dxpeditions. Any 
tool that will make these areas of ham radio more enjoyable for me is worth the 
price. For me, this the first new radio in 15 years, so I researched what I 
thought was going to be the ultimate tool that would make my ham experience the 
most enjoyable. So far the K3S has not disappointed! 
  
My last rig, which I just sold to my son, KC9ETU, was a PROIII. I bought that 
used back in late 2008, which was to replace a Kenwood TS570s and TS2000 (last 
2 new radios). I like to use the comparison that the K3S is in a world of it's 
own over the PROIII, like the PROIII was to the two Kenwood's. 
  
There are probably some functions I will never get to, to using on the K3S, but 
the ones I'm using have certainly been huge improvements to what I have been 
playing with in the past. 
  
I went with the 100 watt K3S with auto tuner and P3. For me and my style of 
operating, I did not see the need for the dual receiver, at this time. The P3 
lets me see what's going on, on the band. I tried the dual receive function in 
the PROIII years ago, and I just preferred the band scope instead!  I went with 
the 6Khz, 2.7Khz, 500Hz and 250Hz roofing filters. Very happy camper! 
  
73 Gene N9TF 
  
K3S 10057    
  

- Original Message -

From: Jerry Moore je...@carolinaheli.com 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2015 7:59:05 AM 
Subject: [Elecraft] I wonder how many folks have had buyers remorse on a
K3/K3S purchase? 

Just asking. It's a lot of money but appears to be a lot of radio. It's not 
as flashy as some. 

  

Just a lot to think about as I save up. 

Jer 

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Re: [Elecraft] New K3S

[n9tf]

Hi Joe, 
  
I received my K3S last week SN 10057. I cannot give you an A-B comparison 
against the original K3 as I never had one. One thing I can comment on though A 
to B, is about the speaker audio between the K3 and K3S as I was exposed to 
several K3's at field day. The speaker audio is MUCH cleaner with better gain 
and no distortion. I am running the speaker out to a pair of Polk book end 
speakers (passive) from a surround sound entertainment system. Very clean 
audio. The internal speaker also presents a very clean, loud, undistorted 
quality. 
Any other comparisons would be compared against my previous Icom ProIII, which 
so far is night and day! I have the following roofing filters set up. 6Khz, 
2.7Khz, 500hz and 250hz. I am amazed at how tight this receiver is with these 
roofing filters, and the flexibility of all RX options compared to what I was 
using. With regard to the preamps, I can only compare to ProIII, and the S/N  
with pre amp 1 or 2 in has a much higher signal level to noise floor increase. 
Very clean. 
  
I am still in the learning mode at this time! 
  
73 Gene, N9TF 
  
K3S - 10057 

- Original Message -

From: Joe W2KJ w...@bellsouth.net 
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2015 4:02:28 PM 
Subject: [Elecraft] New K3S 

Howdy Gang: 

I wonder if anyone has received a new K3S yet?? 

Would certainly appreciate any comments as to performance, receive audio 
quality, new preamps, etc, etc. 

Many thanks for any info. 

73, Joe W2KJ 
I QRP, therefore I am 
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Re: [Elecraft] [K3S] Are They Shipping Yet?

[n9tf]

Mine just shipped yesterday. Ordered online May 22. 

N9TF
- Original Message -
From: Keith Robinson w4...@charter.net
To: n...@n5ge.com
Cc: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Sent: Fri, 17 Jul 2015 15:42:56 - (UTC)
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3S] Are They Shipping Yet?

In fact they are
I received mine last Monday 
I placed my order at Dayton on Friday morning about 8:15.
Good luck
Keith Robinson 
W4KTR

Sent from Keith Robinson's  iPhone

 On Jul 17, 2015, at 09:08, Amateur Radio Operator N5GE n...@n5ge.com wrote:
 
 Has anyone received a K3S yet?
 
 Amateur Radio Operator 
 N5GE
 
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