Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Hi James, Wayne, My intentions certainly weren't to insult the designers. Not taken this way, either! Like I've always said, I learn more from critique than praise. However, there's only so much that can be done quality-wise at a certain price point - I understand that. It's true that Elecraft has stepped up to the plate and replaced all broken knobs which I commend. The problem in my case however, is that both sets of replacement knobs which I paid for and received had off-centered holes. That's a defect. I'm sorry to hear about this, and will look into it. Anyway, to answer your question... if Elecraft designed and released a complete set of machined aluminum knobs and sold it as an upgrade for $200, I'd order it. I'm keeping tabs on this and will see if there's critical mass for it. It would be a lot of work and be very expensive, so I can't make any promises. 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
I discovered both AF knobs on my K3 #2555 had split just a couple of days ago. I received not one set but 2 sets in the mail yesterday. Thanks Elecraft! I suppose the new ones look sturdier. I wouldn't want to replace them with anything else. 73, John N1JM -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3%3A-machined-concentric-knobs-from-Mouser-tp3353328p3362838.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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Hi Wayne, Just to clarify - those knobs were 14 per pair from Mouser. So about 7 bucks each if you look at it from that perspective. If you do decide to offer machined knobs, wouldn't it be easier just to order from a company that already specializes in machined knobs? Capital investment and manufacturing costs shouldn't be significantly higher especially if bought in bulk then they are now for your plastic knobs. Just a thought. Happy Friday and good DX to you and all Elecrafters. BTW, I'll be operating 4U1UN again this afternoon beginning around 2200 zulu, perhaps earlier if I can sneak out of the office. Hope I can work some of you guys then. I've never actually had a QSO with another K3 owner on air.. surprise surprise... On Fri, Jul 31, 2009 at 2:00 AM, Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com wrote: I'm keeping tabs on this and will see if there's critical mass for it. It would be a lot of work and be very expensive, so I can't make any promises. 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Does anyone make a rack mount kit for the K3? k4...@aol.com wrote: Yes, the extended side panels are a good alternative to some type of front cover. I have them for my K3 and K2. Mine were made by David Saylor (forgot the call) at www.saylorsmachine.com (select the link for capabilities). They are 1/4 inch thick, so will add some weight to the K3. __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Wayne, They would have to be_ alot_ nicer looking than the stock K3 knobs. I really like the stock knobs anyway. 73, Tony W7GO would you pay $200 for those knobs if we designed them for you? Just asking) 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Tony Morgan wrote: Wayne, They would have to be_ alot_ nicer looking than the stock K3 knobs. I really like the stock knobs anyway. 73, Tony W7GO Ditto!! 73, Dave, W8OV __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
I sure wouldn't pay $200 for machined aluminum knobs. I could make my own if I wanted to, but don't see any need for it. It's funny though, sometimes I think the K3 should have some kind of hardshell cover for the front panel. Then you could transport it without having to worry about banging up the fragile controls and LCD. Not that I transport the rig much... I guess I just think it would be cool to have a snap-on or hinged panel cover. 73, Drew AF2Z On Wed, 29 Jul 2009 22:08:06 -0700, Wayne N6KR wrote: Hi John, I suppose some operators might prefer a full set of machined knobs, but you can imagine how the cost of K3 would have to increase given $14 per small knob, and more for the larger ones. Like most other manufacturers, we've tried to keep our rigs cost-effective, yet still aesthetically pleasing. (That said, would you pay $200 for those knobs if we designed them for you? Just asking) 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
(Sorry for the duplicate reply; email problems...) Wayne, My intentions certainly weren't to insult the designers. However, there's only so much that can be done quality-wise at a certain price point - I understand that. It's true that Elecraft has stepped up to the plate and replaced all broken knobs which I commend. The problem in my case however, is that both sets of replacement knobs which I paid for and received had off-centered holes. They didn't crack this time around, but because of the off-centered holes, were incredibly difficult to adjust. The top knob would rub against the bottom no matter what because of the cam effect. Anyway, to answer your question... if Elecraft designed and released a complete set of machined aluminum knobs and sold it as an upgrade for $200, I'd order it. In my opinion, the current plastic knobs are the weak-point in an otherwise perfect package. 73 de James K2QI -Original Message- From: Wayne Burdick [mailto:n...@elecraft.com] Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:08 AM To: k2qi@gmail.com Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: re: K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser Hi John, The K3's knobs were custom-designed (by me). They match, too :) So the thought of using knobs from another vendor on a K3 is a bit painful It's true that our knob manufacturer used the wrong material for one early batch of the dual concentrics. But we caught most of them, rejected the rest of the stock, and we've been replacing them in the field as quickly as possible. The correct material is very strong, as you'd expect. If anyone feels their K3 knobs are substandard in any way, they can request new ones at no charge. I suppose some operators might prefer a full set of machined knobs, but you can imagine how the cost of K3 would have to increase given $14 per small knob, and more for the larger ones. Like most other manufacturers, we've tried to keep our rigs cost-effective, yet still aesthetically pleasing. (That said, would you pay $200 for those knobs if we designed them for you? Just asking) 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Not me. I like the ones that are on there now and if I have trouble because of being part of the bad batch I know I will be taken care of and that will be the end of it. I would NOT pay $200 for replacement knobs that I do not think look right on the K3. It looks great NOW. 73 de Jim KG0KP - Original Message - From: James Sarte k2qi@gmail.com To: 'Wayne Burdick' n...@elecraft.com; k2qi@gmail.com Cc: 'Elecraft Reflector' elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 7:17 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser (Sorry for the duplicate reply; email problems...) Wayne, My intentions certainly weren't to insult the designers. However, there's only so much that can be done quality-wise at a certain price point - I understand that. It's true that Elecraft has stepped up to the plate and replaced all broken knobs which I commend. The problem in my case however, is that both sets of replacement knobs which I paid for and received had off-centered holes. They didn't crack this time around, but because of the off-centered holes, were incredibly difficult to adjust. The top knob would rub against the bottom no matter what because of the cam effect. Anyway, to answer your question... if Elecraft designed and released a complete set of machined aluminum knobs and sold it as an upgrade for $200, I'd order it. In my opinion, the current plastic knobs are the weak-point in an otherwise perfect package. 73 de James K2QI -Original Message- From: Wayne Burdick [mailto:n...@elecraft.com] Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:08 AM To: k2qi@gmail.com Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: re: K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser Hi John, The K3's knobs were custom-designed (by me). They match, too :) So the thought of using knobs from another vendor on a K3 is a bit painful It's true that our knob manufacturer used the wrong material for one early batch of the dual concentrics. But we caught most of them, rejected the rest of the stock, and we've been replacing them in the field as quickly as possible. The correct material is very strong, as you'd expect. If anyone feels their K3 knobs are substandard in any way, they can request new ones at no charge. I suppose some operators might prefer a full set of machined knobs, but you can imagine how the cost of K3 would have to increase given $14 per small knob, and more for the larger ones. Like most other manufacturers, we've tried to keep our rigs cost-effective, yet still aesthetically pleasing. (That said, would you pay $200 for those knobs if we designed them for you? Just asking) 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
That was exactly my thought! Last year, I looked at the nice big heavy tuning knob on my IC746 and thought how nice it would be to have that on my K3...and then I realized that the rig would start to get heavier and heavier if you started replacing the current knobs. Might not be much on the scale, but like dB on EME, they all add up! Having carried this K3 with me to E51, I appreciate keeping it as light weight as possible. I will stay with the little plastic knobs until they get smashed ;-) VY 73, Lance Bill wrote: I also wonder how much weight they add. -- Lance Collister, W7GJ (ex: WN3GPL, WA3GPL, WA1JXN, WA1JXN/C6A, ZF2OC/ZF8, E51SIX) P.O. Box 73 Frenchtown, MT 59834 USA QTH: DN27UB TEL: (406) 626-5728 URL: http://www.bigskyspaces.com/w7gj 2m DXCC #11/6m DXCC #815 Interested in 6m EME? Ask me about subscribing to the MAGIC BAND EME email reflector! __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Folks (and especially Wayne), we must be very happy transceiver owners that we start discussing about the quality and design of the knobs of our rig. It shows that the K3 is a nearly perfect machine - except the too slow maximum keyer speed, of course ;-) Martin DK4XL K3 #2199 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3%3A-machined-concentric-knobs-from-Mouser-tp3353328p3356792.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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Exactly Martin. I love my K3 in just about every respect. I only have two gripes: the knobs and the DSP NR. Other than that, tickle me pink. James K2QI On Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 10:50 AM, DK4XL dk...@web.de wrote: Folks (and especially Wayne), we must be very happy transceiver owners that we start discussing about the quality and design of the knobs of our rig. It shows that the K3 is a nearly perfect machine - except the too slow maximum keyer speed, of course ;-) Martin DK4XL K3 #2199 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3%3A-machined-concentric-knobs-from-Mouser-tp3353328p3356792.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 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
From: drewko drew...@verizon.net Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:06:01 -0400 It's funny though, sometimes I think the K3 should have some kind of hardshell cover for the front panel. Then you could transport it without having to worry about banging up the fragile controls and LCD. Not that I transport the rig much... I guess I just think it would be cool to have a snap-on or hinged panel cover. I tried to get one made at my local TAP Plastics (El Cerrito), but the fellow there didn't seem to be able to get it the right size, even with my leaving the K3 with him. I'd like to have such an item. One of the few advantages of some of the Japanese-manufactured rigs is that the front panel is removable, so the heavy part can be separated from the fragile part. 73, doug __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
One of the few advantages of some of the Japanese-manufactured rigs is that the front panel is removable, so the heavy part can be separated from the fragile part. We solved that by not making a heavy part in the K3 :-) 73, Lyle KK7P __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
From: drewko drew...@verizon.net Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:06:01 -0400 It's funny though, sometimes I think the K3 should have some kind of hardshell cover for the front panel. Then you could transport it without having to worry about banging up the fragile controls and LCD. Not that I transport the rig much... I guess I just think it would be cool to have a snap-on or hinged panel cover. I tried to get one made at my local TAP Plastics (El Cerrito), but the fellow there didn't seem to be able to get it the right size, even with my leaving the K3 with him. I had a foam shop fabricate a custom die set for punching out foam protectors for both the front and rear panels of the K3. The closed-cell foam is then glued to a thin sheet of PVC which protects the foam and distributes any shock applied to the front or rear panel. The foam cut-outs clear the knobs and connectors, contacting the sheet metal portion of the panels. See http://www.w0yk.com/images/k3_foam.jpg. If there is enough interest, I might consider having another run of them made up. Price would be $15 plus shipping. Ed - W0YK __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Admittedly I'd pay 30 to 35 bucks for a snap on front cover much like the newer Agilent oscilloscopes do today. I'm not sure it would be all that possible to snap on being that there are no snap features built into the rig itself at the moment. ~Brett -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of drewko Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 5:06 AM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser I sure wouldn't pay $200 for machined aluminum knobs. I could make my own if I wanted to, but don't see any need for it. It's funny though, sometimes I think the K3 should have some kind of hardshell cover for the front panel. Then you could transport it without having to worry about banging up the fragile controls and LCD. Not that I transport the rig much... I guess I just think it would be cool to have a snap-on or hinged panel cover. 73, Drew AF2Z On Wed, 29 Jul 2009 22:08:06 -0700, Wayne N6KR wrote: Hi John, I suppose some operators might prefer a full set of machined knobs, but you can imagine how the cost of K3 would have to increase given $14 per small knob, and more for the larger ones. Like most other manufacturers, we've tried to keep our rigs cost-effective, yet still aesthetically pleasing. (That said, would you pay $200 for those knobs if we designed them for you? Just asking) 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
My plan was to use bits of Velcro to hold it on. Extended side panels would give more protection and a good way to hold them on, too. My K2's have extended side panels, thanks to someone on this list. 73, doug From: Brett Howard br...@livecomputers.com Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:30:25 -0700 Admittedly I'd pay 30 to 35 bucks for a snap on front cover much like the newer Agilent oscilloscopes do today. I'm not sure it would be all that possible to snap on being that there are no snap features built into the rig itself at the moment. __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Yes, the extended side panels are a good alternative to some type of front cover. I have them for my K3 and K2. Mine were made by David Saylor (forgot the call) at www.saylorsmachine.com (select the link for capabilities). They are 1/4 inch thick, so will add some weight to the K3. Hey...maybe Rose could make something that would slip over the front with a velco strap or elastic band for tightening. 73, Henry - K4TMC K3/100 #98 and K2/100 #3137 -Original Message- From: Doug Faunt N6TQS +1-510-655-8604 fa...@panix.com To: br...@livecomputers.com Cc: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thu, Jul 30, 2009 1:49 pm Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser My plan was to use bits of Velcro to hold it on. Extended side panels would give more protection and a good way to hold them on, too. My K2's have extended side panels, thanks to someone on this list. 73, doug From: Brett Howard br...@livecomputers.com Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:30:25 -0700 Admittedly I'd pay 30 to 35 bucks for a snap on front cover much like the newer Agilent oscilloscopes do today. I'm not sure it would be all that possible to snap on being that there are no snap features built into the rig itself at the moment. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
On Thu, 2009-07-30 at 08:52 -0700, Ed Muns wrote: I had a foam shop fabricate a custom die set for punching out foam protectors for both the front and rear panels of the K3. The closed-cell foam is then glued to a thin sheet of PVC which protects the foam and distributes any shock applied to the front or rear panel. The foam cut-outs clear the knobs and connectors, contacting the sheet metal portion of the panels. See http://www.w0yk.com/images/k3_foam.jpg. If there is enough interest, I might consider having another run of them made up. Price would be $15 plus shipping. Ed - W0YK I'd go for it. Count me in. Al N1AL __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Me too, Bob, N6CM On Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 5:12 PM, Alan Bloomn...@cds1.net wrote: On Thu, 2009-07-30 at 08:52 -0700, Ed Muns wrote: I had a foam shop fabricate a custom die set for punching out foam protectors for both the front and rear panels of the K3. The closed-cell foam is then glued to a thin sheet of PVC which protects the foam and distributes any shock applied to the front or rear panel. The foam cut-outs clear the knobs and connectors, contacting the sheet metal portion of the panels. See http://www.w0yk.com/images/k3_foam.jpg. If there is enough interest, I might consider having another run of them made up. Price would be $15 plus shipping. Ed - W0YK I'd go for it. Count me in. Al N1AL __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Looks like those knobs sold out rather quickly from Mouser. 73 de James K2QI PS: did I get a chance to work anyone here tonight from 4U1UN? __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
I received my machined concentric knobs today from Mouser, and as promised, I would write back to the group with my findings. First of all, the knobs are incredibly well made and appear to be anodized black. There is a fat, white, indicator stripe on the barrel. There are also two set screws. The knobs fit PERFECTLY on the K3 with absolutely no shimming or modification required. Just take off the old plastic knobs and replace with these. The knobs themselves are expensive - somewhere in the neighborhood of 13 or 14 dollars per pair, but in my opinion well worth the investment. The outer diameter and length of the knobs themselves are also a tad larger than the OEM plastic pieces, making adjustments easier for fat-fingered types. Anyway, this is the part number again for anyone interested: 506-KN5700B1/4 The only downside to this is now none of the other knobs match, and all feel cheap compared to these Mouser units. 73 de James K2QI __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Any way you can post some pictures? Mike AC6JA K3 #3215 K2 #0028 In a message dated 7/29/2009 4:47:44 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time, k2qi@gmail.com writes: I received my machined concentric knobs today from Mouser, and as promised, I would write back to the group with my findings. First of all, the knobs are incredibly well made and appear to be anodized black. There is a fat, white, indicator stripe on the barrel. There are also two set screws. The knobs fit PERFECTLY on the K3 with absolutely no shimming or modification required. Just take off the old plastic knobs and replace with these. The knobs themselves are expensive - somewhere in the neighborhood of 13 or 14 dollars per pair, but in my opinion well worth the investment. The outer diameter and length of the knobs themselves are also a tad larger than the OEM plastic pieces, making adjustments easier for fat-fingered types. Anyway, this is the part number again for anyone interested: 506-KN5700B1/4 The only downside to this is now none of the other knobs match, and all feel cheap compared to these Mouser units. 73 de James K2QI __ 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 **Hot Deals at Dell on Popular Laptops perfect for Back to School (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1223106546x1201717234/aol?redir=http:%2F%2Faltfarm.mediaplex.com%2Fad%2Fck%2F12309%2D81939%2D1629%2D8) __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Here are two pictures. I left the bottom RF knob off to give you an idea of how well the larger concentric knob slides onto the encoder shaft. It's perfect; no looseness or wiggling. http://jamespaulsarte.com/temp/ham/knob1.jpg http://jamespaulsarte.com/temp/ham/knob2.jpg James K2QI _ From: ac...@aol.com [mailto:ac...@aol.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 8:51 PM To: k2qi@gmail.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser Any way you can post some pictures? Mike AC6JA K3 #3215 K2 #0028 In a message dated 7/29/2009 4:47:44 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time, k2qi@gmail.com writes: I received my machined concentric knobs today from Mouser, and as promised, I would write back to the group with my findings. First of all, the knobs are incredibly well made and appear to be anodized black. There is a fat, white, indicator stripe on the barrel. There are also two set screws. The knobs fit PERFECTLY on the K3 with absolutely no shimming or modification required. Just take off the old plastic knobs and replace with these. The knobs themselves are expensive - somewhere in the neighborhood of 13 or 14 dollars per pair, but in my opinion well worth the investment. The outer diameter and length of the knobs themselves are also a tad larger than the OEM plastic pieces, making adjustments easier for fat-fingered types. Anyway, this is the part number again for anyone interested: 506-KN5700B1/4 The only downside to this is now none of the other knobs match, and all feel cheap compared to these Mouser units. 73 de James K2QI __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html _ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
The word is inexpensive... not cheap! Those look really nice! I was just sitting here wondering if there was a knob that would fit over the shift, width, speed, and pwr knobs. I'm not so sure I'd want to mess w/ them too much though as I'd not want the spacing between them to get too terribly much smaller. They work well as they are... But that does look quite good... ~Brett On Wed, 2009-07-29 at 21:09 -0400, James Sarte wrote: Here are two pictures. I left the bottom RF knob off to give you an idea of how well the larger concentric knob slides onto the encoder shaft. It's perfect; no looseness or wiggling. http://jamespaulsarte.com/temp/ham/knob1.jpg http://jamespaulsarte.com/temp/ham/knob2.jpg James K2QI _ From: ac...@aol.com [mailto:ac...@aol.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 8:51 PM To: k2qi@gmail.com; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser Any way you can post some pictures? Mike AC6JA K3 #3215 K2 #0028 In a message dated 7/29/2009 4:47:44 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time, k2qi@gmail.com writes: I received my machined concentric knobs today from Mouser, and as promised, I would write back to the group with my findings. First of all, the knobs are incredibly well made and appear to be anodized black. There is a fat, white, indicator stripe on the barrel. There are also two set screws. The knobs fit PERFECTLY on the K3 with absolutely no shimming or modification required. Just take off the old plastic knobs and replace with these. The knobs themselves are expensive - somewhere in the neighborhood of 13 or 14 dollars per pair, but in my opinion well worth the investment. The outer diameter and length of the knobs themselves are also a tad larger than the OEM plastic pieces, making adjustments easier for fat-fingered types. Anyway, this is the part number again for anyone interested: 506-KN5700B1/4 The only downside to this is now none of the other knobs match, and all feel cheap compared to these Mouser units. 73 de James K2QI __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html _ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
I also wonder how much weight they add. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Brett Howard The word is inexpensive... not cheap! Those look really nice! I was just sitting here wondering if there was a knob that would fit over the shift, width, speed, and pwr knobs. I'm not so sure I'd want to mess w/ them too much though as I'd not want the spacing between them to get too terribly much smaller. They work well as they are... But that does look quite good... ~Brett __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Wow, nice knobs. I would like a complete set for my K3. Phil K7PB - Original Message - Here are two pictures. I left the bottom RF knob off to give you an idea of how well the larger concentric knob slides onto the encoder shaft. It's perfect; no looseness or wiggling. http://jamespaulsarte.com/temp/ham/knob1.jpg http://jamespaulsarte.com/temp/ham/knob2.jpg __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Aluminum isn't all that heavy... On Wed, 2009-07-29 at 21:19 -0500, Bill wrote: I also wonder how much weight they add. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Brett Howard The word is inexpensive... not cheap! Those look really nice! I was just sitting here wondering if there was a knob that would fit over the shift, width, speed, and pwr knobs. I'm not so sure I'd want to mess w/ them too much though as I'd not want the spacing between them to get too terribly much smaller. They work well as they are... But that does look quite good... ~Brett __ 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: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Hi John, The K3's knobs were custom-designed (by me). They match, too :) So the thought of using knobs from another vendor on a K3 is a bit painful It's true that our knob manufacturer used the wrong material for one early batch of the dual concentrics. But we caught most of them, rejected the rest of the stock, and we've been replacing them in the field as quickly as possible. The correct material is very strong, as you'd expect. If anyone feels their K3 knobs are substandard in any way, they can request new ones at no charge. I suppose some operators might prefer a full set of machined knobs, but you can imagine how the cost of K3 would have to increase given $14 per small knob, and more for the larger ones. Like most other manufacturers, we've tried to keep our rigs cost-effective, yet still aesthetically pleasing. (That said, would you pay $200 for those knobs if we designed them for you? Just asking) 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser
Wayne Burdick wrote: It's true that our knob manufacturer used the wrong material for one early batch of the dual concentrics. But we caught most of them, rejected the rest of the stock, and we've been replacing them in the field as quickly as possible. The correct material is very strong, as you'd expect. Years ago I worked in an injection molding factory. There are multiple parameters that you have to set on the machine: temperature, pressure, time, cooling, etc. and some of these have 'profiles' -- they are not simply scalar quantities, but vary over time. Different materials, sizes and shapes of products, kinds of molds, etc. require different setups. I'm sure there is a science to it, but I remember it being a black art. If you didn't do everything right you got all kinds of defects, including parts that seemed OK at first but later became brittle. I remember an incident in which our engineer took some sample kitchen faucets that we'd made to show them to a distributor. When he demonstrated the quick smooth action of one of the valves...snap. The stem broke off in his hand. Hmm, that never happened before, he said, and turned the other valve. Snap. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco __ 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
