Re: [Elecraft] SKN: What a Long, Strange Trip...
Eric Norris writes: How far this tiny California company has come in 20 years is just incredible. Not to even mention the KX2 and KX3, and all the other stuff. I worked a bunch of SKN stations with my KX2. Among those QSOs included a Heathkit HW-101 and DX-40, a Drake TR7, and an ARC-5 transmitter. They all had a distinctive hum and chirp that drifted about 1KHz down the band by the end of the QSO. About ran out of RIT range. Fun, and a nostalgic reminder what most rigs sounded like "back in the day." How spoiled we are with today's rock solid rigs, stable DDS frequency control, sensitive receivers, and the benefits of SDR, filtering, IF shift, etc. Not to mention no longer a sturdy table to contain your Collins S-line, power supplies, antenna tuners, etc. Nobody would have imagined 30 years ago the performance and size of today's K3S, KX3 and KX2. Elecraft has definitely led much of the innovation we now enjoy in our hobby. Such kudos are indeed well deserved. 72, Paul NA5N __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] SKN: What a Long, Strange Trip...
This year for SKN, I left the tube radios in their racks, and went with an HW-8, KX1, K1, K2, and K3. After just having watched the in-depth K4 interview with Eric at Elecraft's European Distributor, and having had a personal tour of the K4 by Eric at Pacificon, my mind is blown. Really blown. How far this tiny California company has come in 20 years is just incredible. Not to even mention the KX2 and KX3, and all the other stuff. Well done, Elecraft, long may you thrive. 73 Eric WD6DBM __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN.
For everyone's information, the Straight Key Century Club has Straight Key Night every day and night 24 hours per day and 7 days per week all year. Some of us are Ludites Never get enough Straight Key and Bug operation. We even have some that like and use side swipers. Read about us and our activities at SKCCgroup.com and join us if you like what you see, we are free and will not ask for money. If you are new to CW and would like to get better, we will QRS for you and welcome you! Willis 'Cookie' Cooke,SKCC #4077S K5EWJ & Trustee N5BPS From: Gary Smith To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, January 2, 2016 9:28 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN. Though you did get the info you asked and that SKN is over, this info may be moot but it's a worthy read. SKN is not a contest though it can be looked at that way. Here is the official website and it explains it well. http://www.arrl.org/straight-key-night On the personal side, I enjoy SKN for several reasons but one main reason; it allows me to experience ham radio the way it was before digital everything took over our operating stations. Back when people made more than a "contest style" 599 TU & back to CQing for their next fly by contact. During SKN, people send their station information, rig, antenna, key, their name and QTH and the RST is real rather than cookie cutter 599 regardless of signal. It's refreshing to ignore the electronic log that already gives you their name & QTH the second you enter their call, and listen to them send their town, a comma and then their state. It takes me back to the days of my paper log where it was a challenge to remember someone's name when you hear their familiar call, where if you wanted to know where someone lived to send a QSL, you needed to the look it up in the US and international editions of the US Call Book. Sometimes DX would send their mailing address and it was a test of copy skills to get the unusual street names and town names correctly over the QRN & QSB. But when you did it that way, those QSL cards meant so much more. As a poor student in Nursing School, I remember hand drawing my first QSL cards, artfully, because I couldn't afford to pay someone to make them, paper was cheap and pens were plentiful. Those original KA1DQG cards were a joy to make and surely were appreciated by the recipients. SKN reminds me of those days. It was a time of more honesty in RST and comments as to poor tone and others trying to help you without the eternal LID or UP being always sent. QRM is worse today but there always was QRM, even Maxim called it Rotten QRM and had his Wouf Hong at the ready to do battle. But I wax nostalgic; SKN is a time to experience older times when I think Ham Radio was more fun and personal when it comes to the QSO itself. You hear some on hand keys today, I suspect the speed demons bypass them like the tortoise and the Hare but those with the hand keys are still living the joy that made Ham Radio great and a contact more of a joy than another minimalist Q in the log. I have my Begali Sculpture and use it daily but sometimes I bring out the old Navy Key, just because of respect for the old days. This SKN I used my K3 at around 40 watts with my father's Navy key he brought back from Pearl Harbor when he was there in the 40's. Some of the contacts I made were using their tube gear. It's fun to ragchew about their old radio that they just dusted off. Truth be told, the most fun QSO's I've had in the last year were those SKN QSOs because you have to invest your effort to the copy and the conversation is much more active and personal, it's Ham Radio today as it was then. Consider it an annual Brigadoon of Ham Radio, you just don't have to wait 100 years to enjoy it again. Try to fit it in if you can, next year. 73, Gary KA1J > I've seen several references to Straight Key Nite being tonight. Guys, I > thought SKN was Jan 1st. On the east coast, it's still Dec 31st. SKN should > be tomorrow nite. Right? > > Sent from my iPhone > ...nr4c. bill > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to wrco...@yahoo.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN.
Gary wrote: On the personal side, I enjoy SKN for several reasons but one main reason; it allows me to experience ham radio the way it was before digital everything took over our operating stations. Back when people made more than a "contest style" 599 TU & back to CQing for their next fly by contact. During SKN, people send their station information, rig, antenna, key, their name and QTH and the RST is real rather than cookie cutter 599 regardless of signal. It's refreshing to ignore the electronic log that already gives you their name & QTH the second you enter their call, and listen to them send their town, a comma and then their state. It takes me back to the days of my paper log where it was a challenge to remember someone's name when you hear their familiar call, where if you wanted to know where someone lived to send a QSL, you needed to the look it up in the US and international editions of the US Call Book. -- The only operating I do is rag chewing, mostly on CW with a very rare AM/SSB contact, and I keep a paper log. Since I don't contest I have no need to hook a computer to my rig. Going QRP is another way to dig up ragchew QSOs throughout the year. I find that QRP operators more often than not like to talk about their rigs, especially the homebrewers. My ears prick up when I hear a slightly odd-sounding signal. Perhaps a hint of chirp or it drifts slightly. Aha! That must be a fellow with an interesting rig. My favorites are 40 and 30 meters. They're almost always open and 30 meters is a welcome refuge from contests. While many Hams today focus on contests or DX-ing, we are out there on the bands looking for an interesting QSO. 73, Ron AC7AC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN.
Though you did get the info you asked and that SKN is over, this info may be moot but it's a worthy read. SKN is not a contest though it can be looked at that way. Here is the official website and it explains it well. http://www.arrl.org/straight-key-night On the personal side, I enjoy SKN for several reasons but one main reason; it allows me to experience ham radio the way it was before digital everything took over our operating stations. Back when people made more than a "contest style" 599 TU & back to CQing for their next fly by contact. During SKN, people send their station information, rig, antenna, key, their name and QTH and the RST is real rather than cookie cutter 599 regardless of signal. It's refreshing to ignore the electronic log that already gives you their name & QTH the second you enter their call, and listen to them send their town, a comma and then their state. It takes me back to the days of my paper log where it was a challenge to remember someone's name when you hear their familiar call, where if you wanted to know where someone lived to send a QSL, you needed to the look it up in the US and international editions of the US Call Book. Sometimes DX would send their mailing address and it was a test of copy skills to get the unusual street names and town names correctly over the QRN & QSB. But when you did it that way, those QSL cards meant so much more. As a poor student in Nursing School, I remember hand drawing my first QSL cards, artfully, because I couldn't afford to pay someone to make them, paper was cheap and pens were plentiful. Those original KA1DQG cards were a joy to make and surely were appreciated by the recipients. SKN reminds me of those days. It was a time of more honesty in RST and comments as to poor tone and others trying to help you without the eternal LID or UP being always sent. QRM is worse today but there always was QRM, even Maxim called it Rotten QRM and had his Wouf Hong at the ready to do battle. But I wax nostalgic; SKN is a time to experience older times when I think Ham Radio was more fun and personal when it comes to the QSO itself. You hear some on hand keys today, I suspect the speed demons bypass them like the tortoise and the Hare but those with the hand keys are still living the joy that made Ham Radio great and a contact more of a joy than another minimalist Q in the log. I have my Begali Sculpture and use it daily but sometimes I bring out the old Navy Key, just because of respect for the old days. This SKN I used my K3 at around 40 watts with my father's Navy key he brought back from Pearl Harbor when he was there in the 40's. Some of the contacts I made were using their tube gear. It's fun to ragchew about their old radio that they just dusted off. Truth be told, the most fun QSO's I've had in the last year were those SKN QSOs because you have to invest your effort to the copy and the conversation is much more active and personal, it's Ham Radio today as it was then. Consider it an annual Brigadoon of Ham Radio, you just don't have to wait 100 years to enjoy it again. Try to fit it in if you can, next year. 73, Gary KA1J > I've seen several references to Straight Key Nite being tonight. Guys, I > thought SKN was Jan 1st. On the east coast, it's still Dec 31st. SKN should > be tomorrow nite. Right? > > Sent from my iPhone > ...nr4c. bill > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN.
SKN is UTC on Jan 1st to 2359 on Jan 1st. New Year's Day UTC. 73, BILL W4RK Sent from my iPhone > On Dec 31, 2015, at 21:20, Nr4c wrote: > > I've seen several references to Straight Key Nite being tonight. Guys, I > thought SKN was Jan 1st. On the east coast, it's still Dec 31st. SKN should > be tomorrow nite. Right? > > Sent from my iPhone > ...nr4c. bill > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to billge...@embarqmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN.
It's on New Year's eve. Matt W6NIA Always store beer in a dark place. - R. Heinlein > On Dec 31, 2015, at 7:20 PM, Nr4c wrote: > > I've seen several references to Straight Key Nite being tonight. Guys, I > thought SKN was Jan 1st. On the east coast, it's still Dec 31st. SKN should > be tomorrow nite. Right? > > Sent from my iPhone > ...nr4c. bill > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to mzil...@roadrunner.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] SKN.
I've seen several references to Straight Key Nite being tonight. Guys, I thought SKN was Jan 1st. On the east coast, it's still Dec 31st. SKN should be tomorrow nite. Right? Sent from my iPhone ...nr4c. bill __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] SKN sans Elecraft
For the first time since drinking the Kool-Aid years ago, I made it all the way through SKN without touching an Elecraft radio! Nothing but my HW-16 and Heathkit CW twins was used, though I did have to use the AF1 to help the old girls out. Nothing makes you appreciate your K3, KX3, K2, K1, or KX1 like vacuum tubes. 73 Eric WD6DBM Sent from Yahoo! Mail on Android __ 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] SKN, VizKey, AF2
The VIZ Vertical is indeed a smooth bug for slow speed work. Tom made me a custom humongous-sized base so I don't knock the key over. Another approach to slowing it down for super slow speed work is to go to your local hobby shop. You can find small diameter brass tubes which will fit snuggly right over the arm. Cut the brass tube to your preferred length, slip it over the arm, and then slip the weight over the brass tube *above* the damper. This is an inexpensive and effective solution. Tom makes great products and I was sorry to learn that he is presently looking for a buyer for his business (Old Old Timers Club Newsletter "Spark Gap Times", January 2013 edition, page 4, bottom). 73, Stan WB2LQF On Sun, Jan 6, 2013 at 11:52 PM, eric norris wrote: Someone mentioned the VizKey right-angle bug. I have a VizVertical. Tom made me a special weight, 1 1/4" long, with the clamp screw drilled at the end. By adjusting the key so the damper hits the weight instead of the vibrating arm, this gives the VizVertical a 11 to 17 wpm range--perfect for slow pokes like me. You can see this key on my SKN soapbox pics, or a youtube vid under my channel (gliderboy1955) called WD6DBM SKN 2013--THE HEATHKIT TWINS. The Viz Vertical is so smooth when properly adjusted that it feels more like paddles than a bug. I actually have to coarse it up a bit on SKN or transitioning to the Vibroplex is too hard. A great and beautiful key. My Heathkit CW twins have so little selectivity that only by using an Elecraft AF2 are they usable for crowded conditions on SKN 40m. Thanks Elecraft! 73 Eric WD6DBM Sent from the metering jack on my Heathkit Twoer __ 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] SKN, VizKey, AF2
Someone mentioned the VizKey right-angle bug. I have a VizVertical. Tom made me a special weight, 1 1/4" long, with the clamp screw drilled at the end. By adjusting the key so the damper hits the weight instead of the vibrating arm, this gives the VizVertical a 11 to 17 wpm range--perfect for slow pokes like me. You can see this key on my SKN soapbox pics, or a youtube vid under my channel (gliderboy1955) called WD6DBM SKN 2013--THE HEATHKIT TWINS. The Viz Vertical is so smooth when properly adjusted that it feels more like paddles than a bug. I actually have to coarse it up a bit on SKN or transitioning to the Vibroplex is too hard. A great and beautiful key. My Heathkit CW twins have so little selectivity that only by using an Elecraft AF2 are they usable for crowded conditions on SKN 40m. Thanks Elecraft! 73 Eric WD6DBM Sent from the metering jack on my Heathkit Twoer __ 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] SKN 2012
I think I understand your feelings about the old K2. I owned, for a time, serial #7. I didn't build it myself - I acquired it from a ham in Canada. There was a somewhat mystical quality felt in having one of the early ones - wish I had it back :-( . It went for a good cause though... and I did get a K1 in trade. A somewhat local ham was looking for a K2 but, time being limited, settled for the K1. When I heard I, made the swap (some boot - I'm not that generous). He had it and, I assume, enjoyed it for the better part of a year before the big C took him. Some day I'll get another K2 - but it won't be quite the same. 73, rayW0PFO -- On 12/31/2011 05:15 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: > John, > > If you think my fully upgraded (and packed with all options for a QRP > K2) original Field Test K2 SN 00020 will be replaced by a KX3, you have > another "think" coming. > Yes, I will have a KX3, but that old K2 will still be "rolling along". > It may not do prime duty in the home station - the K3 takes of that, and > it will no longer be the Field Radio of Choice once the KX3 is in hand, > but it will sit faithfully on the operating desk and be used in sort of > an SO2R position with the K3. > I hope my heirs treat it with respect as well, but that is out of my > control. So in the future, if you youngsters run across a K2 SN 00020, > know that it was mine, and it was never sold in my lifetime. > > Oh yes, Happy New Year to all - 2011 is just about gone. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > __ 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] SKN 2012
John, FB on your "Trophy Case". I do not have any trophy case of past rigs. I do have some of my old tube receivers stowed away in the attic - I don't know why, but I just can't part with them and since they are homebrew, they are not regarded as classics to be rebuilt. I did sell my BC-348 long ago and have regretted it, I don't know what happened to the SW-54 receiver I used as a novice (any questions about why I did not have many contacts?), and the nice homebrew transmitter I built for my Novice station was cannibalized for parts to be used in other projects (teenager with limited monetary resources). So you see, I am not in the habit of buying gear with any mind toward selling it in the future, nor do I wish to put all my past homebrew projects on display (although that may be worthy of some consideration for what is left in my collection). I do have an attachment to those things that I build, and if I have built them for myself, would never consider selling them. I just keep them around so I can look at them once in a while and "remember when". You do not have to understand nor agree with my personal version of nostalgia, but as we look back (hey, it is New Year's Eve - a time for looking back and anticipating the future) we can enjoy our past accomplishments and take lessons from those things that did not turn out so well. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/31/2011 6:36 PM, John Oppenheimer wrote: > On 12/31/2011 05:15 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: >> John, >> >> If you think my fully upgraded (and packed with all options for a QRP >> K2) original Field Test K2 SN 00020 will be replaced by a KX3, you have >> another "think" coming. > Hi Don, obviously, your K2 #20, same as my K2/10 #7212, fits the > "Characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal; classic" > category. Some day I shall have a QRP rig trophy case; presently, I have > a HW-8, IC-703, and K2/10. All three were/are well used with enduring > memories. > > John > __ > 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] SKN 2012
On 12/31/2011 05:15 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: > John, > > If you think my fully upgraded (and packed with all options for a QRP > K2) original Field Test K2 SN 00020 will be replaced by a KX3, you have > another "think" coming. Hi Don, obviously, your K2 #20, same as my K2/10 #7212, fits the "Characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal; classic" category. Some day I shall have a QRP rig trophy case; presently, I have a HW-8, IC-703, and K2/10. All three were/are well used with enduring memories. John __ 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] SKN 2012
John, If you think my fully upgraded (and packed with all options for a QRP K2) original Field Test K2 SN 00020 will be replaced by a KX3, you have another "think" coming. Yes, I will have a KX3, but that old K2 will still be "rolling along". It may not do prime duty in the home station - the K3 takes of that, and it will no longer be the Field Radio of Choice once the KX3 is in hand, but it will sit faithfully on the operating desk and be used in sort of an SO2R position with the K3. I hope my heirs treat it with respect as well, but that is out of my control. So in the future, if you youngsters run across a K2 SN 00020, know that it was mine, and it was never sold in my lifetime. Oh yes, Happy New Year to all - 2011 is just about gone. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/31/2011 5:27 PM, John Oppenheimer wrote: > Straight Key Night is just a under two hours away: > http://www.arrl.org/straight-key-night > > If you have a straight key, and maybe a vintage CW station, then it's > time to get on the air. Those of you that have a K2, then you may have a > vintage rig ready to go: > > vin·tage > adj. > 1. Of or relating to a vintage. > 2. Characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal; classic. > 3. Old or outmoded. > > Is the year for the K2 the date it was designed, a decade ago, or when > it was built? My K2 is vintage 2011. > > The K2 is absolutely; excellent, very mature, and, because it's still > sold today, must have an enduring appeal. > > Alas, the K2 is old and outmoded, as it will soon be replaced by many KX3s. > > Happy New Year, > John, KN5L > __ > 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] SKN 2012
John I agree with everything except for number 3. For those of us to have, keep and own a rig where we soldered on the components and qualify as a homebrew transceiver in many homebrew contests, and be proud to say that it has been soldered together by "ME", the K2 will never be replaced. Besides, if anything ever broke on it, I can probably fix it by going to a local electronic parts store and repair the broken components. The K2 will go the way of the Kenwood TS830S, an irreplaceable classic - only my humble opinion. The ergonomics of the K2 design makes it the classic CW rig. Ariel > Date: Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:27:56 -0600 > From: j...@kn5l.net > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] SKN 2012 > > Straight Key Night is just a under two hours away: > http://www.arrl.org/straight-key-night > > If you have a straight key, and maybe a vintage CW station, then it's > time to get on the air. Those of you that have a K2, then you may have a > vintage rig ready to go: > > vin·tage > adj. > 1. Of or relating to a vintage. > 2. Characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal; classic. > 3. Old or outmoded. > > Is the year for the K2 the date it was designed, a decade ago, or when > it was built? My K2 is vintage 2011. > > The K2 is absolutely; excellent, very mature, and, because it's still > sold today, must have an enduring appeal. > > Alas, the K2 is old and outmoded, as it will soon be replaced by many KX3s. > > Happy New Year, > John, KN5L > __ > 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] SKN 2012
I've got a homebrew 6C4 driving a 5763 to 8 watts input *somewhere* around 7.028 +/- the drift ;) but my K2 is my receiver for tonight and the T/R relay is Phil Salas' AD5X version from an old QST. We're definitely *not* talking QSK here, folks!! Made one "warm-up" QSO today with KE3NE and realized the old fist just ain't what it used to be !!! Happy New Year and Happy SKN. Stan WB2LQF On Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 5:27 PM, John Oppenheimer wrote: > Straight Key Night is just a under two hours away: > http://www.arrl.org/straight-key-night > > If you have a straight key, and maybe a vintage CW station, then it's > time to get on the air. Those of you that have a K2, then you may have > a > vintage rig ready to go: > > vin·tage > adj. > 1. Of or relating to a vintage. > 2. Characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal; > classic. > 3. Old or outmoded. > > Is the year for the K2 the date it was designed, a decade ago, or when > it was built? My K2 is vintage 2011. > > The K2 is absolutely; excellent, very mature, and, because it's still > sold today, must have an enduring appeal. > > Alas, the K2 is old and outmoded, as it will soon be replaced by many > KX3s. > > Happy New Year, > John, KN5L > __ > 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] SKN 2012
Straight Key Night is just a under two hours away: http://www.arrl.org/straight-key-night If you have a straight key, and maybe a vintage CW station, then it's time to get on the air. Those of you that have a K2, then you may have a vintage rig ready to go: vin·tage adj. 1. Of or relating to a vintage. 2. Characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal; classic. 3. Old or outmoded. Is the year for the K2 the date it was designed, a decade ago, or when it was built? My K2 is vintage 2011. The K2 is absolutely; excellent, very mature, and, because it's still sold today, must have an enduring appeal. Alas, the K2 is old and outmoded, as it will soon be replaced by many KX3s. Happy New Year, John, KN5L __ 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] SKN - REPORT YOUR RESULTS!
On Jan 1, 2007, at 6:54 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Now that SKN is over, please report your results to ARRL ASAP. There's a short deadline to report. An entire month is not a short deadline. I operated SKN. You can find my notes in the Soapbox. I used my K2/100 for receive, but my transmitter was a homebrew 6CL6 Osc / 6146 PA crystal-controlled rig. What fun! Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN - REPORT YOUR RESULTS!
Folks, Now that SKN is over, please report your results to ARRL ASAP. There's a short deadline to report. You can do it online, or just jot down some comments and send to Hq. Even if you only made one QSO, report it! Without support, activities like SKN will simply go away. 73 es HNY de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN...
Plan to be on SKN tonight. Mostly 80 meters on or around 3546.5. If it's quiet here will try also later in evening on 1815 khz on top band. Will be running the Drake 2NT + 2B or the TCS-12. 73 to all, Sandy W5TVW ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN Results
Results for me as follows: 0 stations worked. My straight key broke and I did not want to use a bug. 73s john-n3drk - Original Message - From: "EricJ" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 1:57 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] SKN Results SKN at KE6US: QSOs: Worked 8 total, 7 on the Novice portion of 40m New Years Eve and one the next afternoon on 20m. Rig: Drake 2-NT and 2-B. First QSO with modified Siltronix CB VFO. I got a 595C signal report! I had to look it up! I thought it was the model of the rig the guy was using. Retired the VFO and hooked the K2 back up as my VFO for the 2-NT. Clean reports. See it at: http://www.ke6us.com/boatanchors.htm showing the K2 lash-up http://www.ke6us.com showing the Siltronix VFO which is back on the bench for now. Antenna: G5RV on 40, TH7DX @ 60' on 20 Key: Speed-X No. of Elecraft rigs worked: None, but 7 of those contacts are scratching their heads over "DRAKE 2NT WID K2 VFO". It was great to hear CW on the Novice portion. Usually it is completely dead up there. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 4:18 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] SKN Results SKN at N2EY: QSOs: 6 (5 on 80 meters, 1 on 40 meters) Rig: 100 W homebrew CW-only transceiver http://hometown.aol.com/n2ey/myhomepage/ Antenna: 80/40 inverted V Key: J-37 # Elecraft rigs worked: 1 (K2) -- Boy it was great to hear 80 meters full of beautiful CW signals. Let's do all we can to keep it that way all year. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN Results
SKN at KE6US: QSOs: Worked 8 total, 7 on the Novice portion of 40m New Years Eve and one the next afternoon on 20m. Rig: Drake 2-NT and 2-B. First QSO with modified Siltronix CB VFO. I got a 595C signal report! I had to look it up! I thought it was the model of the rig the guy was using. Retired the VFO and hooked the K2 back up as my VFO for the 2-NT. Clean reports. See it at: http://www.ke6us.com/boatanchors.htm showing the K2 lash-up http://www.ke6us.com showing the Siltronix VFO which is back on the bench for now. Antenna: G5RV on 40, TH7DX @ 60' on 20 Key: Speed-X No. of Elecraft rigs worked: None, but 7 of those contacts are scratching their heads over "DRAKE 2NT WID K2 VFO". It was great to hear CW on the Novice portion. Usually it is completely dead up there. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 4:18 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] SKN Results SKN at N2EY: QSOs: 6 (5 on 80 meters, 1 on 40 meters) Rig: 100 W homebrew CW-only transceiver http://hometown.aol.com/n2ey/myhomepage/ Antenna: 80/40 inverted V Key: J-37 # Elecraft rigs worked: 1 (K2) -- Boy it was great to hear 80 meters full of beautiful CW signals. Let's do all we can to keep it that way all year. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN Results
It really was nice to hear all the SKN activity. I made seven QSOs, all on 40m, with a WWII-vintage J-45 (a J-37 key mounted on a leg clamp). Boy, that leg clamp is tight. Guys back in the 30s and 40s must have had small legs, is all I can say. :) 73! Dan KB6NU -- CW Geek: Fists #9342, FP #1171 Affiliated Club Coordinator, MI Section Read my ham radio blog at www.kb6nu.com On Jan 2, 2006, at 7:18 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: SKN at N2EY: QSOs: 6 (5 on 80 meters, 1 on 40 meters) Rig: 100 W homebrew CW-only transceiver http://hometown.aol.com/n2ey/myhomepage/ Antenna: 80/40 inverted V Key: J-37 # Elecraft rigs worked: 1 (K2) -- Boy it was great to hear 80 meters full of beautiful CW signals. Let's do all we can to keep it that way all year. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN Results
SKN at N2EY: QSOs: 6 (5 on 80 meters, 1 on 40 meters) Rig: 100 W homebrew CW-only transceiver http://hometown.aol.com/n2ey/myhomepage/ Antenna: 80/40 inverted V Key: J-37 # Elecraft rigs worked: 1 (K2) -- Boy it was great to hear 80 meters full of beautiful CW signals. Let's do all we can to keep it that way all year. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs - OT Old Stuff Comment
In a message dated 12/24/05 1:14:44 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > >Well, there you are! "Restorable" ARC-5s are expensive but junkers aren't. > > Most have been ham-hacked into oblivion. Today, it would be a shame to > deface or modify in *any* way WWII-era military radios that have managed to > avoid > 60 years of ham defacement. Please, use a "pre-hacked" unit if you intend > to actually put one on the air. I agree 100%. Keep the mint/unmodified sets as they are, and focus on the ones so hacked up they'll never be restored. > > The famous WWII "command set" (ATA/ARA, SCR-274-N, AN/ARC-5) transmitters > actually perform rather well when left all original and operated in the > manner > which the original engineers intended. Agreed! Leave it to a ham armed with not much more real radio engineering knowledge > than how to use Ohm's law to completely "re-design" (i.e., destroy) a set. > Most of the post-WWII ham mag articles detailing the faults of the original > designs are based upon pure myth and lack of knowledge by the author. > I disagree! Sort of, anyway. The "ARC-5" sets do work quite well in original configuration *if* you have all the required stuff like dynamotors and suitable supplies, and set them up the way they were originally used (transmitters tuned up and locked on frequency, for example). But hams didn't/couldn't use them that way. They'd get a surplus unit all by itself - no documents, no dynamotor, etc. Cars were 6 or 12 volts DC, houses were 110 AC - 24-28 VDC was a problem! In those days *anything* less than pure T9X was likely to get you an FCC notice as well as an OO card. Sure, it might be possible to get a good signal out of Command set - if a lot of "ifs" were met... On top of this was TVI. Even a little harmonic energy was too much back in those days when TV stations ran relatively low ERP, there was no cable, and people tried to pick up distant TV stations because so few were on the air. > I have all-original AN/ARC-5 and SCR-274-N systems (radios, controls, > racks, mountings, tuning shafts, cables, connectors, etc.) that took me many > years > to complete. The receivers and transmitters are by far the easiest > components to obtain. > The average ham who used Command sets in the bad old days was very economy-minded, and buying "accessories" wasn't part of the plan > eBay is a great resource for hacked or original condition units. > > Those who are interested in this great old technology, both historical, > operational, and technical, may want to join two other qth.net lists: > > [EMAIL PROTECTED][General military radios of all eras, but WWII > predominates] > [EMAIL PROTECTED][WWII aircraft radios, especially "command" > sets] > > Traffic can sometimes be light on these lists. But beware...on either of > the above lists, inquiries about modifications to all-original gear or major > "re-design" of lightly-hacked gear, may get a somewhat cool reception. > How to join? Again - my opinion is that unhacked units should be left alone! There are plenty of sets that have been hacked up so much or are in such poor shape that they're better off as parts sources/modification platforms. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs - OT Old Stuff Comment
>Well, there you are! "Restorable" ARC-5s are expensive but junkers aren't. Most have been ham-hacked into oblivion. Today, it would be a shame to deface or modify in *any* way WWII-era military radios that have managed to avoid 60 years of ham defacement. Please, use a "pre-hacked" unit if you intend to actually put one on the air. The famous WWII "command set" (ATA/ARA, SCR-274-N, AN/ARC-5) transmitters actually perform rather well when left all original and operated in the manner which the original engineers intended. Leave it to a ham armed with not much more real radio engineering knowledge than how to use Ohm's law to completely "re-design" (i.e., destroy) a set. Most of the post-WWII ham mag articles detailing the faults of the original designs are based upon pure myth and lack of knowledge by the author. I have all-original AN/ARC-5 and SCR-274-N systems (radios, controls, racks, mountings, tuning shafts, cables, connectors, etc.) that took me many years to complete. The receivers and transmitters are by far the easiest components to obtain. eBay is a great resource for hacked or original condition units. Those who are interested in this great old technology, both historical, operational, and technical, may want to join two other qth.net lists: [EMAIL PROTECTED][General military radios of all eras, but WWII predominates] [EMAIL PROTECTED][WWII aircraft radios, especially "command" sets] Traffic can sometimes be light on these lists. But beware...on either of the above lists, inquiries about modifications to all-original gear or major "re-design" of lightly-hacked gear, may get a somewhat cool reception. 73, Mike / KK5F ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
In a message dated 12/24/05 12:08:09 AM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > I actually had a generous offer of a command set by a list member for just > that purpose. Well, there you are! "Restorable" ARC-5s are expensive but junkers aren't. > > I'm holding out for an HG-10B or HA-5 for cosmetic reasons, though the > HG-10B is sort of a beast. Good heavens! When I was a novice with a station like this, I would use anything that would work. > Now I'm more superficial and also want the whole thing to "look good". > You can make a Command set look really good by the following method (it does take a bit of metalwork, though): First you need an extension for the tuning knob. The shaft of the variable cap is an odd size (3/16"?) and so it helps to have access to a lathe to make a custom adapter. But it can be done a number of ways. Next you make a front panel and mount the Command set chassis behind it with spacers - about 3/4 inch. New dial is a disk of metal. plastic or even cardboard. A window with a bit of Plexiglas lets you see the dial, and a few dial lamps to light it up are a nice touch. A Spot switch and other controls can be put on the panel as well. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
In a message dated 12/23/05 10:23:38 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > I spent my first 20 years as a ham building tube gear. All that sawing and > filing and drilling no longer holds my interest. > > I'm toying with building one based on a DDS card and controller. In fact, I > mocked up a Drake-style front panel for it which I posted on my website, but > there is just something...unnatural...about the idea. hi. > You don't need to do all that metalwork if you have a little imagination. Just get a Command set transmitter and use it for the VFO chassis and mechanicals. One that has been heavily modified and is beyond restoration is best, and cheapest. All you want is the chassis, variable caps and coil, and maybe a tube socket or two. Solid state, tube or hybrid, the hard work is all done for you. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
I spent my first 20 years as a ham building tube gear. All that sawing and filing and drilling no longer holds my interest. I'm toying with building one based on a DDS card and controller. In fact, I mocked up a Drake-style front panel for it which I posted on my website, but there is just something...unnatural...about the idea. hi. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 3:31 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs In a message dated 12/23/05 1:20:02 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I'm still looking for a real VFO. Build one! 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
Yep, I agree, Bill. I would say use your whole forearm, but no real muscle effort should be required, of course. Keep your elbow and your wrist LOOSE. Even rubbery. Your forearm basically just gently bounces enough to flex your wrist. Your fingers do nothing but perch on the knob. If you don't tense any muscles, the keying is very fluid and it is easy to get into a rhythm which, it appears, you already know. I really miss all the interesting fists you could hear on the ham bands in the years before electronic keyers. I remember an episode of MASH where a concert pianist lost his right arm. Winchester tried to get him interested in playing, by getting him some music written for the left-hand, but the young soldier was adamant that any career in music was over. I remember Winchester telling him, "I can play the notes...but I can't play the MUSIC." That's how I remember the old fists. They were individual and as recognizable as a musical style. The electronic keyers allow one to play the notes, but it isn't really music any longer. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Bill Coleman Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 12:20 PM To: Joseph Trombino Jr Cc: Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs On Dec 23, 2005, at 12:48 PM, Joseph Trombino Jr wrote: > > I'll be using a U.S. Navy flameproof hand key...for a couple of QSO's > before my wrist breaks down (grin)hope the CW is intelligible. Now, if you have that key adjusted correctly, and are using it correctly, you should be able to send CW all day on a straight key without any problems or pain. About 30 years ago, 73 magazine had an excellent article about "glass arm" -- how telegraph operators would get it and it would put them out of a job. It also spoke of how to avoid it -- to use a rather wide spacing, loose trunnions, pivot on your elbow and have your whole arm move when you key. If you key just with the muscles of your wrist, you'll tire out in no time. Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN, SFN?
It seems to me that by now, SKN is dangerously close to becoming Straight Face Night (SFN). Which brings up yet another question: If I build a mechanical key to send with my left foot (QLF, that is), will it be a legal device for SFN... err... I mean SKN? Dave, W6KOW, K2 S/N 5120 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
In a message dated 12/23/05 1:20:02 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > I'm still looking for a > real VFO. > Build one! 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN
To all, With tongue firmly in cheek and a smile on my face (try that!) let me say to this issueGET A LIFE, people. I remember the "good old days" of the straight key. I could hardly wait to ditch the @#$%^ thing and get a bug. I bet the use of the straight key was the second leading cause of carpal tunnel syndrome after operating the manual printing press. Then I could hardly wiat to ditch the @[EMAIL PROTECTED] bug, which couldn't be adjusted for decent dot speed without wrapping the arm with about a pound of solder between the weights, for a W9TO Keyer, which I built. Then I couldn't wait to ditch the $%^&* 12AX7 multivibrator circuits which would, at random intervals lock up or send odd length dits or dahs, for a solid state keyer, the Micro TO keyer, which I built. It was pretty good, but I like the modern, Mode B iambic keyers better. I can't warm up to the keyboard method, so here I amstuck at this point. I would use the straight key for a few hours on SKN, if I could find my 1957 J-38, but I don't know where it is. And while I am playing the part of curmudgeon, let me say that no matter which is used, straight key, bug, or modern keyer, the use of the good old QLF Q-signal will be desparately needed. Having said all of this (which is waaay too much already) let me say that CW is my favorite mode and I encourage everyone to get on by what ever means they can from using two wires to a keyboard and use CW. I will patiently and gladly work you and won't even use the QLF Q-signal. 73 and Merry Christmas to all. Dave, K4TO ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
On Dec 23, 2005, at 12:48 PM, Joseph Trombino Jr wrote: I'll be using a U.S. Navy flameproof hand key...for a couple of QSO's before my wrist breaks down (grin)hope the CW is intelligible. Now, if you have that key adjusted correctly, and are using it correctly, you should be able to send CW all day on a straight key without any problems or pain. About 30 years ago, 73 magazine had an excellent article about "glass arm" -- how telegraph operators would get it and it would put them out of a job. It also spoke of how to avoid it -- to use a rather wide spacing, loose trunnions, pivot on your elbow and have your whole arm move when you key. If you key just with the muscles of your wrist, you'll tire out in no time. Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
Hi Eric: Your web site is excellent. It brought a lot of memories. My first rig was the Drake R4-B and the 2-NT. Later when I passed the General, I replaced the 2-NT with the T4X-B. I still have them all, but the 2-NT is in a box in my storage room. I, too, never found a suitable VFO for it, but God if we only new about VXO's in that day !! HI I was a high school sophomore in 1971 with my Novice ticket - WN4YDL - living in Memphis. I now also have built the Elecraft line - K2/100, K1, and KX1. I just may have to try this 'VFO' out ! I certainly need to get the Tarn-X out and start cleaning up these great old rigs. I saw where an outfit called Misty Hollow is developing DDS gear for the transceivers of the day, but I don't know if they have anything going back to the separates. 73 and Merry Christmas, Jamie WB4YDL -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of EricJ Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 12:17 PM To: 'Elecraft' Subject: RE: [Elecraft] SKN rigs On STRAIGHT KEY Night, I'll be using the Drake 2-B, 2-C and 2-NT, not surprisingly with a Speed-X STRAIGHT KEY. The VFO for my 50 dollar Drake transmitter is an Elecraft K2 into a DL-1 for about 2 vrms into the FT-243 crystal socket. My apologies to boatanchor enthusiasts everywhere. I'm still looking for a real VFO. Pictures at: http://www.ke6us.com/boatanchors.htm Included is a picture of a STRAIGHT KEY for those who seem confused about the concept of STRAIGHT KEY Night. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN
Thanks, Larry. Kathy opens up entirely new possibilities for ARRL events. I was always intimidated by all that fast-paced, short number exchange stuff in ARRL contests. I thought it was mandated by the rules on the ARRL site. But instead we're only bound by philosophy. I'm going to enjoy contests more now that I know the participants are going to enjoy ragchewing with me at 10 wpm. DX contesters will enjoy my efforts to reach across the oceans in friendship and learn their culture. Afterall, isn't this what ham radio and the ARRL are all about? But I think I'll stick with a straight key on Straight Key Night. To "celebrate the good old days." Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com where a Drake 2-NT gets an Elecraft K2 VFO for Christmas! -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Larry Walker (KW4A) Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 8:22 AM To: Elecraft List Subject: [Elecraft] SKN Just got off the phone with Kathy who was speaking for Dan Henderson, N1ND (Head of ARRL contest division) who is on vacation. I asked her what was the thinking of the organizers of SKN pertaining to what kind of keys are acceptable for use during SKN? Her answer was very definite in as much as "Any mechanical means of producing a CW signal is acceptable". The bug is every much a part of radio history as the "straight key" and is perfectly acceptable for use during SKN. You can quote the statement shown on the ARRL site as much as you wish but this is not a "Set of Rules" but more a philosophy of what the night is all about. The celebration of the "Good old days". Vintage equipment is being used more and more on that evening along with the mechanical keys used to generate cw signals from that era. All is encouraged and acceptable. The ONLY thing that is not acceptable is the electronic generation of the cw signal. eg: electronic keyers of any type, keyboards, etc. I have tried to represent the thinking of the officials organizing this event in as simple and straightforward method as possible. I am sure someone will read something into this that isn't there to promote their thinking that because the name of the event is Straight Key Night that it is the only device acceptable. NOT TRUE!!! Gee, I hope this settles this thread. Larry KW4A K2 ser# 811 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN rigs
On STRAIGHT KEY Night, I'll be using the Drake 2-B, 2-C and 2-NT, not surprisingly with a Speed-X STRAIGHT KEY. The VFO for my 50 dollar Drake transmitter is an Elecraft K2 into a DL-1 for about 2 vrms into the FT-243 crystal socket. My apologies to boatanchor enthusiasts everywhere. I'm still looking for a real VFO. Pictures at: http://www.ke6us.com/boatanchors.htm Included is a picture of a STRAIGHT KEY for those who seem confused about the concept of STRAIGHT KEY Night. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN rigs
Fellow Elecrafters: I'll be using my newly resurrected/rehabbed/revitalized HT37 along with my Drake 2B on SKN night. Believe I participated in SKN a year or two ago and quickly realized why I went to a bug in my Novice days (grin). I'll be using a U.S. Navy flameproof hand key...for a couple of QSO's before my wrist breaks down (grin)hope the CW is intelligible. See you there. 73, Joe W2KJ I QRP, therefore, I am ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN
I am planning on participating this year. Despite the keyers and bugs that I have, the straight key is what will be used. Yes, the bug is a part of morse code history but that's not the name of the event is it? I plan on running my K2 for the most part, but I might break out the HW-16 for a little while.. James Kern Network Administrator Kurt S. Adler, Inc. 1107 Broadway New York, NY 10010 212-924-0900 x222 (work) 212-807-0575 (fax) 908-451-6801 (cell) 800-209-7438 (pager) [EMAIL PROTECTED] -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Bill Coleman Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 11:47 AM To: Larry Walker (KW4A) Cc: Elecraft List Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN On Dec 23, 2005, at 11:21 AM, Larry Walker (KW4A) wrote: > The > ONLY thing that is not acceptable is the electronic generation of > the cw > signal. eg: electronic keyers of any type, keyboards, etc. Suppose a ham has built, or has refurbished an ancient TO electronic keyer? Why wouldn't they be able to use it on SKN? I'm certainly not going to step on anyone else's fun, but, for me, using something other than a straight key kinda dilutes the whole SKN experience. Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
On Dec 23, 2005, at 11:21 AM, Larry Walker (KW4A) wrote: The ONLY thing that is not acceptable is the electronic generation of the cw signal. eg: electronic keyers of any type, keyboards, etc. Suppose a ham has built, or has refurbished an ancient TO electronic keyer? Why wouldn't they be able to use it on SKN? I'm certainly not going to step on anyone else's fun, but, for me, using something other than a straight key kinda dilutes the whole SKN experience. Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASELMail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!" -- Wilbur Wright, 1901 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
KW4A said..Gee, I hope this settles this thread. and so do I !!. 72 Tony, W4FOA Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2006 - Original Message - From: "Larry Walker (KW4A)" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Elecraft List" Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 11:21 AM Subject: [Elecraft] SKN Just got off the phone with Kathy who was speaking for Dan Henderson, N1ND (Head of ARRL contest division) who is on vacation. I asked her what was the thinking of the organizers of SKN pertaining to what kind of keys are acceptable for use during SKN? Her answer was very definite in as much as "Any mechanical means of producing a CW signal is acceptable". The bug is every much a part of radio history as the "straight key" and is perfectly acceptable for use during SKN. You can quote the statement shown on the ARRL site as much as you wish but this is not a "Set of Rules" but more a philosophy of what the night is all about. The celebration of the "Good old days". Vintage equipment is being used more and more on that evening along with the mechanical keys used to generate cw signals from that era. All is encouraged and acceptable. The ONLY thing that is not acceptable is the electronic generation of the cw signal. eg: electronic keyers of any type, keyboards, etc. I have tried to represent the thinking of the officials organizing this event in as simple and straightforward method as possible. I am sure someone will read something into this that isn't there to promote their thinking that because the name of the event is Straight Key Night that it is the only device acceptable. NOT TRUE!!! Gee, I hope this settles this thread. Larry KW4A K2 ser# 811 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN
Just got off the phone with Kathy who was speaking for Dan Henderson, N1ND (Head of ARRL contest division) who is on vacation. I asked her what was the thinking of the organizers of SKN pertaining to what kind of keys are acceptable for use during SKN? Her answer was very definite in as much as "Any mechanical means of producing a CW signal is acceptable". The bug is every much a part of radio history as the "straight key" and is perfectly acceptable for use during SKN. You can quote the statement shown on the ARRL site as much as you wish but this is not a "Set of Rules" but more a philosophy of what the night is all about. The celebration of the "Good old days". Vintage equipment is being used more and more on that evening along with the mechanical keys used to generate cw signals from that era. All is encouraged and acceptable. The ONLY thing that is not acceptable is the electronic generation of the cw signal. eg: electronic keyers of any type, keyboards, etc. I have tried to represent the thinking of the officials organizing this event in as simple and straightforward method as possible. I am sure someone will read something into this that isn't there to promote their thinking that because the name of the event is Straight Key Night that it is the only device acceptable. NOT TRUE!!! Gee, I hope this settles this thread. Larry KW4A K2 ser# 811 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
It may say that and it has evolved to that but that was not the original intention of the creator. john - Original Message - From: "Ken K3IU" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "'n3drk'" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; "'Dale Putnam'" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; "'elecraft'" Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 10:24 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] SKN Actually, guys, it DOES say "old-fashioned bugs, a variation of the straight key" on the rules page for SKN of the ARRL web site. "In many circles SKN has been expanded to encompass vintage radio equipment as well. Reminiscing about their early days in our hobby, many operators use SKN as the "excuse" to refurbish their old Viking, Heathkit, or Scout. You will hear as many vintage radios on the air during SKN as you will variety of keys. And you will hear signals generated using old-fashioned bugs, a variation of the straight key. SKN is the time amateur radio recalls the past, transporting it to the present." Surely this horse is dead by now. 73 and Merry Christmas, Ken K3IU -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of n3drk Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 10:15 AM To: Dale Putnam; elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN See you on SKN... and who cares what I use ?? Come challange me?? What am I using? --... ...-- Dale - WC7S in Wy. I surely do not care what you use. But it says straight keys. Does not say bugs or paddles but straight keys. Only you will know what you are using. We all have to live with our conscience. Why dont you start a new one! Call it "Bug Night" or "Paddle Night". Then you will have the few who claim that a straight key is a paddle! MERRY CHRISTMAS john-n3drk ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN
Actually, guys, it DOES say "old-fashioned bugs, a variation of the straight key" on the rules page for SKN of the ARRL web site. "In many circles SKN has been expanded to encompass vintage radio equipment as well. Reminiscing about their early days in our hobby, many operators use SKN as the "excuse" to refurbish their old Viking, Heathkit, or Scout. You will hear as many vintage radios on the air during SKN as you will variety of keys. And you will hear signals generated using old-fashioned bugs, a variation of the straight key. SKN is the time amateur radio recalls the past, transporting it to the present." Surely this horse is dead by now. 73 and Merry Christmas, Ken K3IU -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of n3drk Sent: Friday, December 23, 2005 10:15 AM To: Dale Putnam; elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN > > See you on SKN... and who cares what I use ?? Come challange me?? > What am I using? > > --... ...-- > Dale - WC7S in Wy. I surely do not care what you use. But it says straight keys. Does not say bugs or paddles but straight keys. Only you will know what you are using. We all have to live with our conscience. Why dont you start a new one! Call it "Bug Night" or "Paddle Night". Then you will have the few who claim that a straight key is a paddle! MERRY CHRISTMAS john-n3drk ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
See you on SKN... and who cares what I use ?? Come challange me?? What am I using? --... ...-- Dale - WC7S in Wy. I surely do not care what you use. But it says straight keys. Does not say bugs or paddles but straight keys. Only you will know what you are using. We all have to live with our conscience. Why dont you start a new one! Call it "Bug Night" or "Paddle Night". Then you will have the few who claim that a straight key is a paddle! MERRY CHRISTMAS john-n3drk ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN
Must be the logic of learning to live in the elements, with the wind, rain, snow, and sun, and even the moon. Accomplishing what must be, and learning that not all the is expected is gonna happen. With the soft footfalls from underneath, and a clear starry night, a bit of a fresh breath across one's cheek, and the creak a leather, the sought after is found, and once more, the return to the barn is underway. Time for reflection, honest work results in honest rewards. No one playing fence cop, no one yelling about the condition of the saddle... simply the plain facts... saddled horse, pleasant ride, found calf, return, calf and cow are fine. Day done. Seems a whole lot like SKN. Get on the air, have a good conversation, followed by another... and maybe more... and when you turn off the flow of electrons. a satisfied feeling knowing that it is an accomplishment. Simple... rewarding... satisfaction garunteed. See you on SKN... and who cares what I use ?? Come challange me?? What am I using? --... ...-- Dale - WC7S in Wy. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN
"But the organization that sponsors the event seems to think otherwise." No, they don't...That is reading between the lines...Consulting the ARRL "Members Only" page, attached is an excerpt from the SKN announcement which also appears on page 89, December, 2005 QST...Note the words "using straight keys"...Elsewhere in this article the author mentions what we might HEAR (bugs) being used during SKN, but it does not say they sanction the use of bugs, nor does it call a bug a straight key...This is not a contest, there are no awards or certificates, maybe just honorable mention...Why would one want to use anything but a straight key?...It defeats the whole purpose of the event...IMHO... >In this era of digital communication, keyboarding, FM and electronic keys, >once a year many excellent operators bring the past to the present and >participate in the annual ARRL Straight Key Night. The object of this friendly >event is to enjoy some good, old fashioned QSO fun, using straight keys. The >emphasis is on rag-chewing rather than fast contest-type exchanges. SKN 2006 >begins at 7:00 p.m. EST December 31 and runs for 24 hours through 7:00 p.m. >EST January 1( --2400 UTC January 1, 2006)< Jerry, wa2dkg ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN History
In a message dated 12/19/05 11:54:03 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > The first few SKN's I participated in were twice-yearly. I tried to look up > the dates but can't find them. How about it Jim? > Well, I'm no expert, but here goes: The first mention of SKN appears in QST for April 1970. K4MD suggested it, and the first one was held on New Year's Eve/day of that year (1970--->1971). First one was 8 PM to 1 AM local time. They got over 160 reports, and SKN has been repeated every year since then. Quick timeline: New Year's Eve 1970 --> 1971 - First SKN, 8 pm to 1 am local time. There has been a New Year's SKN every year since that first one. New Year's Eve 1971 --> 1972 - Time extended: 8 pm to 3 am local time July 1974 - Addition of "4th of July" SKN. Actually run the night of July 3 if I understand the times correctly. New Year's Eve 1974--->1975 Time changed to 6 hour period starting at 0100 UTC on January 1 (1975, actually, but in USA it starts on New Year's Eve). New Year's Eve 1976--->1977 Time changed to 24 hour period starting at UTC on January 1 (1976, actually, but in USA it starts on New Year's Eve). July 1979 - Last "4th of July" SKN. Lack of participation cited as reason for cancellation; the New Year's event got more reports. --- Researching SKN was a bit of a sporting course because in the early years it was a very low-key (arghhh!) event. It appears as a small paragraph buried in "Operating News", and doesn't show up on the ARRL indexes for the first few years. SKN didn't get a separate announcement or result until 1976. But even with that tiny amount of publicity, the first one drew over 160 reports and had over 600 different calls reported worked. One unusual feature of SKN has always been the short reporting deadline. ARRL wants reports within 10 days IIRC, not the usual 30 days. Of course the report can be very informal, or highly detailed. There is no "wrong" format of report! I think there's a bit of a message in all that. If we aren't active, or don't report our activity, they'll change the format or even discontinue the event. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN
It is interesting that SKN should come up right now, although SKN 2006 is approaching...I've been cleaning out the shack and going through old issues of QST...I came across December, 1975, the last "small" QST, measuring 6 !/2 inches by 9 1/2 inches...On page 95 in "Operating Events", they mention SKN and the rules...The event was 6 hours long and started at 0100 hours Zulu on December 31It specifically said "Rules require the use of a straight key"...No amount of revisionist thinking can convince me that a bug is a straight key, and I own a left-handed Lightning Bug myself...I don't operate SKN anymore, but it always used to "bug" me when I heard someone call CQ SKN with a bug...They did not slow down to my speed because they couldn't !!...The idea behind SKN was to send ARRL one's operating results and the name and call of the best fist heard...IMHO, only a straight key can produce a true fist signature, bugs and keyers cannot because they are too automatic and are eith er partially of fully devoid of the human element...I know this is going to fall on me like a ton of bricks, but that's life, isn't it?...Maybe I'll dust off the J-38 on New Year's eve...The K2 is ready, I don't know whether I am or not... Anybody interested in acquiring some old issues of QST, starting around 1962?..Don't all yell at once... Jerry, wa2dkg ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN / Bug - Just one request.
If you have a squeeze key you can wire the dash paddle through 2 diodes to the tip and the ring of the phone plug and leave the dot paddle to the dot line. You can then emulate a bug on the K2 if you have it set for auto-key-detect. I haven't tried it...I was never very good with a bug above 15WPM. Tom K2TA - Original Message - From: "Thom R LaCosta" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Vic K2VCO" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Cc: Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2005 1:13 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN / Bug - Just one request. > On Wed, 21 Dec 2005, Vic K2VCO wrote: > > > Some old-timers may remember the "banana-boat swing" in which a bug is > > adjusted to produce very fast dits relative to the sending speed. The > > operator usually sends more dits than necessary, although I think there is > > some relationship between the number of dits sent and the number required. > > Well, this is *easier* to copy than CW with lousy spacing! > > > > To forestall the inevitable comments, yes I know that the banana boat swing > > differs from the Lake Erie swing, in which the proper quantity of dits is > > used. > > Now that strikes me a worthwhile addition to the K2 keyeran option for which > swing you want. > > Another one might be a seperate weighting factor for the dashesyou know > Dahdidahhhdi da dahhh dit > dahh > > I tried to do it with the K2...very frustrating indeed. > > 73,Thom-k3hrn > www.zerobeat.net Home of QRP Web Ring, Drakelist home page,Drake Web Ring, > Free Classified Ads for amateur radio, QRP IRC channel, Drake IRC Channel, > Elecraft Owners Database > www.tlchost.net/hosting/ *** Web Hosting as low as 3.49/month > ___ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > You must be a subscriber to post to the list. > Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm > Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN / Bug - Just one request.
Oh! And Sad Drake mode that makes the tone "whoope!". I nearly fell out of my chair laughing the first time I heard that sound! On Wed, 21 Dec 2005, Thom R LaCosta wrote: On Wed, 21 Dec 2005, Vic K2VCO wrote: Some old-timers may remember the "banana-boat swing" in which a bug is adjusted to produce very fast dits relative to the sending speed. The operator usually sends more dits than necessary, although I think there is some relationship between the number of dits sent and the number required. Well, this is *easier* to copy than CW with lousy spacing! To forestall the inevitable comments, yes I know that the banana boat swing differs from the Lake Erie swing, in which the proper quantity of dits is used. Now that strikes me a worthwhile addition to the K2 keyeran option for which swing you want. Another one might be a seperate weighting factor for the dashesyou know Dahdidahhhdi da dahhh dit dahh I tried to do it with the K2...very frustrating indeed. 73,Thom-k3hrn www.zerobeat.net Home of QRP Web Ring, Drakelist home page,Drake Web Ring, Free Classified Ads for amateur radio, QRP IRC channel, Drake IRC Channel, Elecraft Owners Database www.tlchost.net/hosting/ *** Web Hosting as low as 3.49/month ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN / Bug - Just one request.
On Wed, 21 Dec 2005, Vic K2VCO wrote: Some old-timers may remember the "banana-boat swing" in which a bug is adjusted to produce very fast dits relative to the sending speed. The operator usually sends more dits than necessary, although I think there is some relationship between the number of dits sent and the number required. Well, this is *easier* to copy than CW with lousy spacing! To forestall the inevitable comments, yes I know that the banana boat swing differs from the Lake Erie swing, in which the proper quantity of dits is used. Now that strikes me a worthwhile addition to the K2 keyeran option for which swing you want. Another one might be a seperate weighting factor for the dashesyou know Dahdidahhhdi da dahhh dit dahh I tried to do it with the K2...very frustrating indeed. 73,Thom-k3hrn www.zerobeat.net Home of QRP Web Ring, Drakelist home page,Drake Web Ring, Free Classified Ads for amateur radio, QRP IRC channel, Drake IRC Channel, Elecraft Owners Database www.tlchost.net/hosting/ *** Web Hosting as low as 3.49/month ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN / Bug - Just one request.
Darwin, Keith wrote: Extra space between letters is your friend. I'd rather work a clean fist at 10 wpm then a string of seemingly random dots & dashes at 20 wpm. This isn't just a bug problem! I hear plenty of keyer-generated CW in which letter and word spacing is inadequate. Some old-timers may remember the "banana-boat swing" in which a bug is adjusted to produce very fast dits relative to the sending speed. The operator usually sends more dits than necessary, although I think there is some relationship between the number of dits sent and the number required. Well, this is *easier* to copy than CW with lousy spacing! To forestall the inevitable comments, yes I know that the banana boat swing differs from the Lake Erie swing, in which the proper quantity of dits is used. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
Some of the sloppy fists you'll hear are due to the fact that not everyone fills their cups with hot chocolate that night! See you all on SKN (sober) with my Navy "sparkless". Either using my K1 or the K2/100. 73 de Tom K2TA - Original Message - From: "Gregg mulder" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Tuesday, December 20, 2005 9:54 PM Subject: [Elecraft] SKN > I'm very glad to see and hear that there are those of u out there that agree that SKN is for straight keys ! I know that there are also those among us that would try to dilute this most pure fun by using other than a straight key, and that is their perogative, but SKN only comes once a year, and I wouldn't think of using anything but the "Real Mccoy". A nice cup of hot chocolate and the sweet melody that comes from a straight key on a cold winter's eve. It just dosen't get any better. Anybody who tells u otherwise just dosen't know the true joy of the music that only comes from "pounding the brass". I hope to meet many of u practicing this fine tradition this year during SKN. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. 73 Gregg WB8LZG dit dit > ___ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > You must be a subscriber to post to the list. > Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm > Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN / Bug - Just one request.
Hey guys, I believe SKN is a straight key event. I also know folks will use bugs rather than straight keys. I have but one request. Well two actually: 1. Please send cleanly as far as your are able. If you mean to send "santa" don't send "sank". QRS and send clean. Extra space between letters is your friend. I'd rather work a clean fist at 10 wpm then a string of seemingly random dots & dashes at 20 wpm. 2. Please, HAVE FUN! Enjoy the time you spend. If you can only honor one of these requests, make it the 2nd please. 73! - Keith KD1E - ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN
I'm very glad to see and hear that there are those of u out there that agree that SKN is for straight keys ! I know that there are also those among us that would try to dilute this most pure fun by using other than a straight key, and that is their perogative, but SKN only comes once a year, and I wouldn't think of using anything but the "Real Mccoy". A nice cup of hot chocolate and the sweet melody that comes from a straight key on a cold winter's eve. It just dosen't get any better. Anybody who tells u otherwise just dosen't know the true joy of the music that only comes from "pounding the brass". I hope to meet many of u practicing this fine tradition this year during SKN. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. 73 Gregg WB8LZG dit dit ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN
If anyone wants to know what a straight key is traditionally go to these two sites. This should put an end to the current discussion. It even has pictures for the mentally challenged. If one still does not understand what the difference is between a straight key and a bug, well , there is nothing that can be done for you. Just do not operate that night. http://www.mtech.whsites.net/ghd/ http://www.morsex.com/misc/keyadj.htm ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN - A Straight Solution - background
Group, Jim is the ONLY "technical expert" recognized by the ARRL. He can detail the actual QST issue which details this fact as well as the issue that his article on Field Day appeared (published author). Jim, you should research back to when there were multiple Field Days (duting the 1930's?) and document it here on the reflector. SKN is important because many people nowadays not only do not know history accurately but actually choose to revise it. So it would be nice to know the exact year that the 4th of July event ceased. Believe me, some HAMs only know BPL as an interference problem and NOT what it originally meant for decades! Tom, WA3UZI _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN - A Straight Solution Date: Tue, 20 Dec 2005 12:29:44 -0500 So here's what we all do: 1) Operate SKN using straight keys only 2) Send in detailed reports of our operations to ARRL, with pics if possible, listing QSOs, rigs/keys used, best fist, most interesting QSO, etc. (Something ironic about using a $250 2004 digital camera to take pics of my 1945 J-37 key, bought at a junk sale for 25 cents in 1965) 3) Mention in report that while I/we have/use bugs, sideswipers, cootie keys, keyboards, electronic whoozis and watsatzs, on SKN I/we use straight keys only. 4a) Suggest there be a separate "Bug Night" set aside. Maybe the original July 4th SKN date. 4b) Or maybe suggest BN and SKN should run consecutively, not concurrently - say, Dec 31 UTC is straight keys only, Jan 1 UTC is any nonelectronic key. Or something similar so SKN retains its unique identity. You get the idea - tell 'em what we want! No matter what the rules say, if we all use straight keys that night, it will remain Straight Key Night. 73 es ZUT de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN - A Straight Solution
What's needed is a "Mechanical Key Night" (bugs and straight keys) versus an "Electronic Key Night" (keyers and keyboards) to go along with "Straight Key Night" (straight keys only). And for those who don't like CW, a "VOX Night" and a "PTT Night". And then, considering the season and the condition of the bands, a "Silent Night" (not to be confused with Silent Key Night, one I hope I can participate in when I've gone to the big DXPedition in the sky...) :) 73, Brian, W0DZ -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, December 20, 2005 10:30 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN - A Straight Solution So here's what we all do: 1) Operate SKN using straight keys only 2) Send in detailed reports of our operations to ARRL, with pics if possible, listing QSOs, rigs/keys used, best fist, most interesting QSO, etc. (Something ironic about using a $250 2004 digital camera to take pics of my 1945 J-37 key, bought at a junk sale for 25 cents in 1965) 3) Mention in report that while I/we have/use bugs, sideswipers, cootie keys, keyboards, electronic whoozis and watsatzs, on SKN I/we use straight keys only. 4a) Suggest there be a separate "Bug Night" set aside. Maybe the original July 4th SKN date. 4b) Or maybe suggest BN and SKN should run consecutively, not concurrently - say, Dec 31 UTC is straight keys only, Jan 1 UTC is any nonelectronic key. Or something similar so SKN retains its unique identity. You get the idea - tell 'em what we want! No matter what the rules say, if we all use straight keys that night, it will remain Straight Key Night. 73 es ZUT de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN
On Tue, 20 Dec 2005, EricJ wrote: I got a peek at the SKN 2007 rules. Electronic keyers are OK, but no keyboards. In 2008, all SKN exchanges will have to be handled via Winlink and confirmed via LOTW. But you didn't tell everyone that SKN will mean Sailboat Keeper Night. SKN is for straight keys. It was at one time. Thom www.baltimorehon.com/Home of the Baltimore Lexicon www.tlchost.net/hosting/ Web Hosting as low as 3.49/month ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN - A Straight Solution
So here's what we all do: 1) Operate SKN using straight keys only 2) Send in detailed reports of our operations to ARRL, with pics if possible, listing QSOs, rigs/keys used, best fist, most interesting QSO, etc. (Something ironic about using a $250 2004 digital camera to take pics of my 1945 J-37 key, bought at a junk sale for 25 cents in 1965) 3) Mention in report that while I/we have/use bugs, sideswipers, cootie keys, keyboards, electronic whoozis and watsatzs, on SKN I/we use straight keys only. 4a) Suggest there be a separate "Bug Night" set aside. Maybe the original July 4th SKN date. 4b) Or maybe suggest BN and SKN should run consecutively, not concurrently - say, Dec 31 UTC is straight keys only, Jan 1 UTC is any nonelectronic key. Or something similar so SKN retains its unique identity. You get the idea - tell 'em what we want! No matter what the rules say, if we all use straight keys that night, it will remain Straight Key Night. 73 es ZUT de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
EricJ wrote: I got a peek at the SKN 2007 rules. Electronic keyers are OK, but no keyboards. In 2008, all SKN exchanges will have to be handled via Winlink and confirmed via LOTW. SKN is for straight keys. Eric KE6US LOL! Unfortunately, could be true. -- _ _ _ _ _ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ John L. Sielke ( W ) ( 2 ) ( A ) ( G ) ( N ) http://w2agn.net \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ "CRUSTY OLD CURMUDGEON - AND PROUD OF IT!" ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN
This is a joke, right? I didn't see the . Dan / WG4S / K2 #2456 I got a peek at the SKN 2007 rules. Electronic keyers are OK, but no keyboards. In 2008, all SKN exchanges will have to be handled via Winlink and confirmed via LOTW. SKN is for straight keys. Eric KE6US ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN
I got a peek at the SKN 2007 rules. Electronic keyers are OK, but no keyboards. In 2008, all SKN exchanges will have to be handled via Winlink and confirmed via LOTW. SKN is for straight keys. Eric KE6US www.ke6us.com -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of W2AGN Sent: Tuesday, December 20, 2005 6:12 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: > Yes, another SKN will be upon us soon. While they've taken to allowing > bugs as "straight keys", that makes me rather sad. Here's why: > > I agree 100%. Straight Key Night shoukld be for straight keys. I once told Ed Hare W1RFI that I thought that, and received a vituperative reply that basically told me I was trying to "spoil" the fun of SKN by insisting it was for Straight Keys. -- _ _ _ _ _ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ John L. Sielke ( W ) ( 2 ) ( A ) ( G ) ( N ) http://w2agn.net \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ "CRUSTY OLD CURMUDGEON - AND PROUD OF IT!" ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
Of course John. Do you expect any better than the man who tries to rewrite ham radio history and tradition! Since its inception SKN was for using Straight Keys. A bug is NOT a straight key. But some primadonas who crave control and like telling others how it is to be done insist having their way. And if persons like us do not answer these posts the truth will never get out for the newer licenses. 73s john-n3drk - Original Message - From: "W2AGN" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Cc: Sent: Tuesday, December 20, 2005 9:11 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SKN [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Yes, another SKN will be upon us soon. While they've taken to allowing bugs as "straight keys", that makes me rather sad. Here's why: I agree 100%. Straight Key Night shoukld be for straight keys. I once told Ed Hare W1RFI that I thought that, and received a vituperative reply that basically told me I was trying to "spoil" the fun of SKN by insisting it was for Straight Keys. -- _ _ _ _ _ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ John L. Sielke ( W ) ( 2 ) ( A ) ( G ) ( N ) http://w2agn.net \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ "CRUSTY OLD CURMUDGEON - AND PROUD OF IT!" ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Yes, another SKN will be upon us soon. While they've taken to allowing bugs as "straight keys", that makes me rather sad. Here's why: I agree 100%. Straight Key Night shoukld be for straight keys. I once told Ed Hare W1RFI that I thought that, and received a vituperative reply that basically told me I was trying to "spoil" the fun of SKN by insisting it was for Straight Keys. -- _ _ _ _ _ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ John L. Sielke ( W ) ( 2 ) ( A ) ( G ) ( N ) http://w2agn.net \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ \_/ "CRUSTY OLD CURMUDGEON - AND PROUD OF IT!" ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN History
Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: nor, as it is sometimes rumored, did I go to grade school with Gugliemo Marconi... and Jim KL7CC wrote: Yeah, but we heard you used to date his sister! Hmmm, wasn't her name Maria Olivia Ramona Silvia Elena? 8-) Keep clam, Terry N6RY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN History
Yeah, but we heard you used to date his sister! - Jim, KL7CC Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: nor, as it is sometimes rumored, did I go to grade school with Gugliemo Marconi... ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] SKN History
The first few SKN's I participated in were twice-yearly. I tried to look up the dates but can't find them. How about it Jim? But, no, I was not around for two Field Days nor, as it is sometimes rumored, did I go to grade school with Gugliemo Marconi... Ron AC7AC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] SKN History
Maybe I'm getting along a bit, but nobody seems to remember the history of SKN - not even ARRL! It started out as a casual operating activity on or about the 4th of July. (not New Year's Eve!) It was so popular that a second SKN was added for New Year's. The New Year SKN eventually outshone the 4th of July event, and the latter was dropped. Part of the issue was that many of us were outdoors on the 4th rather than in the shack. If anybody's interested, I can look up the dates. btw, for a few years in the 1930s there were 2 Field Days each summer, too. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] SKN
Yes, another SKN will be upon us soon. While they've taken to allowing bugs as "straight keys", that makes me rather sad. Here's why: When I became a ham back in 1967, bugs and bug users were all over the place. Electronic keyers were still fairly new gadgets even though a few had been described as far back as the 1940s. The problem was that a bug cost only a little more than a keyer paddle, while a keyer with paddles cost more than a bug. And a bug could key any rig, while most keyers had all kinds of limitations on current and voltage. But over time, keyers became the defacto standard and bugs became almost museum pieces. Now it has reached the point that they're being included in SKN. I remember a time when I didn't have to explain what a bug was, what it did or how to use one, to any licensed ham. Now I find many hams have never seen one in use before they see mine. I used a straight key for the first 7 years I was a ham - every night was Straight Key Night! Then I got a bug for Christmas 1974 and have used both ever since. Maybe the activity should be two nights, or the period split, or some kind of categories. -- One thing to do: Be sure to send in a report/log or something to ARRL. A detailed log with callsigns and votes for "most interesting QSO" and "best fist" is great, but even a quick note or email saying you were active is a good idea because it shows support for the activity and support for the mode. 73 de Jim, N2EY ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com