Re: [Elecraft] Higher Power on Transverter bands??

2011-06-29 Thread Roger Dixon
Hi Geoff I should have said that it is a K3 I have. Is it possible to change the cut-in point of the KPA100 ?? Mine seems fixed at 13 watts. The problem is (ref page 39 - Using Transverters) is that you cannot set XVn PWR to more than 12 watts. Thus you cannot get the clean signal from the

[Elecraft] Flying with K2

2011-06-29 Thread Edward R. Cole
I don't have a K2, but I have carried my FT-817 plus a small 35w amp and mic in my briefcase or carry-on bag with no notice by TSA. I also carry a laptop with Lithium battery (no problems). Several years ago I carried a pelican case with home-made radio equipment and the only thing I was

[Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread Edward R. Cole
I learned CW in a high school night class with one of those paper-tape code machines. Then I built my 3-tube receiver and listened to CW and practised with my Skillman Key and code oscillator for hours and hours before I took my Novice test in 1958. I didn't get a paddle until a couple years

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread John Ragle
I like the keyer in the K3. Long ago, my straight key was all I had. For a while I used a bug, but keeping it adjusted was a nuisance. As soon as Heath came out with their keyer, I built one and loved it. My own experience is that it becomes very hard to copy fast CW if the sender is careless

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying (DIGOUT1)

2011-06-29 Thread Bruce Beford
I'd like some confirmation of this. I can see in the KPA500 manual (rev A, page 16) that pin 11 of the AUX connector is INHIBIT#. That's fine. Pin 11 on the K3 AUX connector is DIGOUT1, OK. However, also in the KPA500 manual (page 17), the wiring for a cable between the K3 and the KPA500 does not

Re: [Elecraft] K3- Higher Power on Transverter bands??

2011-06-29 Thread Bruce Beford
Hi, Roger. What's in a name? Herein lies some of the confusion. On the K3, the 100W amp is the KPA3, not KPA100 (K2 amp). As to your problem, would it not be more efficient to use the low level output available from the KXV3(a) to drive your transverter? This would eliminate the waste of all

Re: [Elecraft] K3- Higher Power on Transverter bands??

2011-06-29 Thread Roger Dixon
Hi Bruce Thanks for clearing up the confusion that I caused. Yes, your solution of the low power out is really the way to go. However (!!) I am resurrecting my old 70cms system for the European VHF Field Day this weekend. That was designed many many years ago to work with the then availability

Re: [Elecraft] K3- Higher Power on Transverter bands??

2011-06-29 Thread Bruce Beford
Ah, I see. Time is always the enemy, isn't it? 8-) Have fun this weekend in the VHF Field Day! 73, Bruce, N1RX However (!!) I am resurrecting my old 70cms system for the European VHF Field Day this weekend. That was designed many many years ago to work with the then availability of 10 watt

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying (DIGOUT1)

2011-06-29 Thread Ken K3IU
Bruce: Rev B of the Owner's Manual which came with my KPA200 shows on page 18 that the DIGOUT1 line is maintained in the AUX Cable. That was indeed the case with the one I received. I broke off pin 11 in the connector so that I can continue to use the DIGOUT1 signal to control my PR6 preamp.

[Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread Roger Banks
Hi All. I am using a K3 with internal 144 transverter module. On 2m I use a sequencer for TX/RX as I use a PA and a LNA at the masthead. The rig TX is triggered by the sequencer by using the PTT In line. The sequencer ensures the rig is switched after the LNA. The sequencer is triggered either by

Re: [Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread Roger Dixon
Hi Roger Different solution ! You could use TX DLY. This delays the RF out from the K3 (setable in mS steps). Roger - G4BVY -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Roger Banks Sent: 29 June 2011 10:36 To:

Re: [Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread Roger Banks
Ok Roger - thanks for the input. TX-DLY is an option I suppose but that means the sequencer will not be sequencing in the right order. ( I dont know if that is an issue or not). The sequencer has to switch the LNA first then switches the PA and K3 over together to tx. TXDLY. If I use TXD then they

Re: [Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread John Lemay
help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 6249 (20110629) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus

Re: [Elecraft] K3- Higher Power on Transverter bands??

2011-06-29 Thread Geoffrey Mackenzie-Kennedy
Hi Roger, I should have twigged that you were using a K3 not a K2, so many thanks to Bruce N1RX for his comment. The low power drive solution would be the best option IF you had the time, provided of course that the IMD contributed by any additional amp if required in the transverter was

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread Bill W4ZV
Edward R. Cole wrote: I didn't get a paddle until a couple years ago, even though my radios had internal keyers. I am finding it hard to use the paddle. I guess too many years with a straight key where your hand makes each character. I guess in time I will get the reflexes to use an

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying (DIGOUT1)

2011-06-29 Thread Bruce Beford
Thanks for the response, Ken. The rev B manual is not yet available for download via the web page. I have built my own cable without pin 11 connected between the K3 and KPA-500. This raises the question then- what , if any, is the disadvantage of leaving pin 11 disconnected to allow the K3 to

[Elecraft] KPA3 100 Watt Amp

2011-06-29 Thread Jim Wilson
I've just installed the KPA3 in my K3. The installation went superb and the Transmitter Calibration Gain worked fine. However, I'm able to get 100 watts out on 20 meter through 6 meter but 30, 40, 80, and 160 all come up short. Each measures about 80 watts, via the K3 internal measure under the

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first? (was: Re: K3 in the Media)

2011-06-29 Thread Nate Bargmann
* On 2011 28 Jun 23:20 -0500, Buddy Brannan wrote: Completely agree. To this day, I still can't send properly with an iambic paddle and tend to use them as though they were single lever paddles. Even though I've never owned such a beast. Really, really want another bug, though. In late

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying

2011-06-29 Thread Robert Garceau
I assume that I will be able to use the Y cable with my MicroHam K2? Bob, W1EQ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of n...@n5ge.com Sent: Wednesday, June 29, 2011 12:46 AM To: Elecraft Subject: [Elecraft] KPA500

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread Lou Kolb
I get exactly that same benefit from using a keyboard keyer. Exposure to good code, I think, really does breed better sending. If you're a good enough typist, you can, as has been mentioned, just let the buffer fill, (200 characters in my case) and just enjoy the music of Morse. Lou --

Re: [Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread Bruce Beford
Seems to me this -could- be done, but would require some modifications to your sequencer system. Using the TX INH input (pin 7 or AUX connector on the K3, set TX INH to ON). You would need an output from your sequencer that stays low until TX permission is desired. This operation would be

Re: [Elecraft] Flying with K2

2011-06-29 Thread EMD
Have you considered shipping the battery ahead of time if that is an option. That way it can be waiting for you at your destination when you get there and avoid the stress of losing it to airport security. That is assuming it's not lost in shipping. 73, Ed KE7HGA -- View this message in

Re: [Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread Roger Banks
Thanks Bruce. The sequencer is an SSB DCW2004 B. It does not seem to have a state-change output from rx to tx. It has inputs to earth or high to trigger the sequence and then delay outputs to sequence the devices. So I am note sure that would work.. Roger -- View this message in context:

Re: [Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread Bruce Beford
Roger, You would add your own output that would stay low until the sequencer out for triggering the PTT on the rig is active. This output would also only inhibit the rig when on 2M (a requirement you mentioned), by monitoring the band data outputs of the radio. You would have to build this logic

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread PTA_ABD
There is a certain value in learning to use a straight key. Requires no power or batteries, is immune to RF, and passable CW can be generated with just about any type of contacts. I recall using gum wrappers taped to my fingers when I was a kid ( just fer fun). I still have one hooked up. I

[Elecraft] K3 SN 5035 Hi Sig

2011-06-29 Thread DO5MZ
Hello ich have a problem with my K3. I have today installed KPA3 and KXV3A at the configure says the display HI SIG. I have installet am Dummyload un antenna output. Where ist the problem ??? -- View this message in context:

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] Erratic power control with base cw K2

2011-06-29 Thread Don Wilhelm
Al, With the keying waveshape mod installed, you must use MCU 2.04p/KIO 1.09 or later. Reverting to an earlier firmware level will cause distorted keying waveshapes. In addition to the parts on the Control Board, check RF board C111 (2.2 uF) as well as C168, R98, D36 and R99. 73, Don

[Elecraft] K3 Front Panel Temps/freq drift

2011-06-29 Thread Brian Alsop
Guys, I'm curious what is the max front panel temp you're seeing after a period of operating with significant transmit time? Also what is the room temp at this value. The reason I ask has to do with the K3 Master Oscillator calibration procedure and later drift. A detailed set of

[Elecraft] K3 SN5035 HI SIG

2011-06-29 Thread DO5MZ
Hello ich have a problem with my K3. I have today installed KPA3 and KXV3A at the configure says the display HI SIG. I have installet am Dummyload un antenna output. Where ist the problem ??? 73 Markus -- View this message in context:

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread Tony Estep
On Wed, Jun 29, 2011 at 2:19 AM, John Ragle tpcj1...@crocker.com wrote: I like the keyer in the K3 Good point. The keyer in the K3 is excellent, but not every rig with a built-in keyer is as good. I have an SDR radio. The accompanying computer program contains a keyer that produces

[Elecraft] K2/100 FS

2011-06-29 Thread William Koucky
I bought this kit, K2 kit with KPA100 and KBN2, and finished the front panel board but then got buried in life and I think I will never finish this kit. If someone is interested, make me an offer. wkou...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing

Re: [Elecraft] K3 SN5035 HI SIG

2011-06-29 Thread Don Wilhelm
Markus, I do not know the specific problem, but the HI SIG message indicates that the K3 is seeing a large signal on the receiver input. I would review the installation steps for the KXV3A and the KPA3 to be certain no step was omitted. 73, Don W3FPR On 6/29/2011 9:20 AM, DO5MZ wrote:

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread Nate Bargmann
* On 2011 29 Jun 08:31 -0500, Tony Estep wrote: So I had to add an outboard keyer (Ham Gadgets MK1, highly recommended). Agreed. Not to take anything away from the K3's keyer, but the fact that the MK1 has K1EL keyer command compatibility makes it useful with a wide range of programs. It

[Elecraft] Fwd: [QRP-L] NorCal QRP club meeting

2011-06-29 Thread Paul Maciel
Hello Everyone, Just in case you missed Song's posting on QRP-L here it is again. 73 and hope to see you on Sunday, ---Paul AK1P Original Message Subject:[QRP-L] NorCal QRP club meeting Date: Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:32:51 -0700 From: Song Kang songk...@comcast.net To:

[Elecraft] Fwd: n6kR and Field day..

2011-06-29 Thread Dave KK7SS
Somehow a wholeline got dropped!! It should ghave started with:- If you do Field day this year, please let us know if you and then the rest of the story! Did you run the KX3 on Field day? If so... impressions and how kitted out?? -- Dave G KK7SS Richland, WA '59 Morris Minor 1000 - working

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread Kevin Rock
You will easily use a straight key if you ever need to now that the rhythm of the code is built into your mind. Good luck and have fun, Kevin. KD5ONS On Tue, 28 Jun 2011 22:14:43 -0700, Wayne Conrad wcon...@yagni.com wrote: I'm too new to this to know much, but it seems to me

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread Kevin Rock
I once had an op check into ECN who I knew but his fist sounded rather odd. Spacing was good but the keying sounded flaky. He was also slower than his normal speed. After the nets he emailed me and told me his story. He had been using two pieces of stranded wire to send code. I think

[Elecraft] KPA500 tolerance

2011-06-29 Thread jgaudron
Hello A friend of of mine has problems with a solid state amplifier that switches to safety at the least value of SWR, like 1.2 or 1.4 ! He would like to know what is the KPA500 tolerance concerning SWR... Any idea welcome Jacques de F9OJ

[Elecraft] Fwd: Straight key first? (was: Re: K3 in the Media)

2011-06-29 Thread Gary D Krause
--- the forwarded message follows --- __ 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:

[Elecraft] (no subject)

2011-06-29 Thread Gary D Krause
I agree. I learned morse with the straight key. One thing I found is that it helps to develop a sense of rhythm. It's like learning to play a musical instrument. I still use a straight key but, I also use paddles. The straight key helps to keep me from getting sloppy which helps to keep me

Re: [Elecraft] n6kR and Field day..

2011-06-29 Thread Wayne Burdick
Dave KK7SS kk...@frontier.com wrote: Wayne, Did you run the KX3 on Field day? Yes. Several of the K6SRA club members and I gave it a good workout. The food, brew, and company were all excellent, too. My son (age 7) had a blast. If so... impressions Don't turn your back, or the rig

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire
In the early 1960's I was pulled off the bench Lockheed Missiles and Space to write a manual and never looked back. I enjoyed 'looking over the shoulders' of engineers and scientists to document what they were doing rather than spending long hours alone designing something myself. The best

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying (DIGOUT1)

2011-06-29 Thread iain macdonnell - N6ML
On Wed, Jun 29, 2011 at 11:00 AM, Bruce Beford bruce.bef...@myfairpoint.net wrote: Thanks for the response, Ken. The rev B manual is not yet available for download via the web page. I have built my own cable without pin 11 connected between the K3 and KPA-500. This raises the question then-  

Re: [Elecraft] K3 SN5035 HI SIG

2011-06-29 Thread DO5MZ
Hello Don The K3 also reacts very slowly, an antenna is not connectet. I will bring back the K3 on 10W and see what happens 73 Markus -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-SN5035-HI-SIG-tp6528930p6529540.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at

[Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire
I found Iambic keying wonderful to use. I stopped only because it *ruined* my fist for a bug, Hi! To make a C you just squeeze both paddles with the dash paddle closing slightly ahead of the dot. To make a Q you just hold the dash paddle and tap the dot paddle at any time during the second

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying (DIGOUT1)

2011-06-29 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire
AFAIK, the only 'downside' is that you need to run the separate PTT cable. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bruce Beford Sent: Wednesday, June 29, 2011 4:00 AM To: 'Ken K3IU' Cc:

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying (DIGOUT1)

2011-06-29 Thread Bruce Beford
No, actually, that's pin 10 not pin 11. Bruce, N1RX AFAIK, the only 'downside' is that you need to run the separate PTT cable. Ron AC7AC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help:

Re: [Elecraft] K3 Front Panel Temps/freq drift

2011-06-29 Thread Guy Olinger K2AV
There has been talk off and on from Wayne of completing the firmware that would interpret the TCXO cal figures. Given that, those who really want this (for whatever reason - I won't comment on that) could, with a separate precise frequency standard, actually develop their own TCXO cal figures

Re: [Elecraft] K3 Front Panel Temps/freq drift

2011-06-29 Thread Jack Chomley
Mmmm..given that there is now a Pactor 4 modem available, this could be an advantage? JT65 too? 73, Jack VK4JRC On Thu, Jun 30, 2011 at 3:15 AM, Guy Olinger K2AV olin...@bellsouth.netwrote: There has been talk off and on from Wayne of completing the firmware that would interpret the

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Jim Brown
On 6/29/2011 8:23 AM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: The best writing always comes from personal experience Yes, and MOST IMPORTANT -- any good writing must TELL A STORY in language that the reader understands. If it doesn't do that, it won't be effective. 73, Jim K9YC

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 tolerance

2011-06-29 Thread Jim Brown
On 6/29/2011 7:43 AM, jgaudron wrote: A friend of of mine has problems with a solid state amplifier that switches to safety at the least value of SWR, like 1.2 or 1.4 ! He would like to know what is the KPA500 tolerance concerning SWR. My KPA500 puts out 600W - 675W (I've seen occasional

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread WILLIS COOKE
I find this thread a bit strange.  There is little doubt in my mind that the best way to send a long message with minimum errors is to send a prepared file by computer with one on the digital modes.  Better yet, send it by email over the Internet and skip ham radio all-together.  For

[Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable and KRC2

2011-06-29 Thread n5ge
Does anyone have this combination working? K3, KPA500 and KRC2. AUX Cable connected to the KPA500, then connected to one side of the supplied Y cable, which is connected to the K3 ACC connection. The other side of the Y Cable is connected to the KRC2. With this connection the Amplifier will

Re: [Elecraft] n6kR and Field day..

2011-06-29 Thread Ross Primrose N4RP
On 6/29/2011 11:14 AM, Wayne Burdick wrote: It performed very well, too. This was a 100-watt FD effort, but we ended up substituting the KX3 (at 5-10 W) for one of the brand X 100-W radios for most of the weekend. Does that mean that the 100W amp isn't even at prototype stage yet?

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable and KRC2

2011-06-29 Thread Ed Muns
These three products are integrated and working fine here since first adding the KPA500 a month or two ago. I use the Elecraft KPAK3AUX cable and Y-adapter, but not the key line interrupter. I can't think of what configuration menu settings might cause or fix your problem, but it must be

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable and KRC2

2011-06-29 Thread n5ge
Problem found! With the help of Paul at Elecraft support we found the problem. If the PR6 is activating DIGOUT1 Of The K3 KPA500 while when the K3 is in transmit mode. This will require (hopefully) a firmware modification to one or both units. Many thanks to Dale Farmer at Elecraft Support

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable and KRC2

2011-06-29 Thread n5ge
Ed and all... It was the PR6 (6m Preamp) installation that was inhibiting PTT on the KPA500. All is well now :o) 73, Tom Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:41:55 -0700, Ed Muns w...@msn.com wrote: These three products are

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable Keying

2011-06-29 Thread n5ge
Update: This was being caused by the PR6 preamp being installed. It was inhibiting keying of the KPA500. All is well now... 73, Tom Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Tue, 28 Jun 2011 23:45:42 -0500, n...@n5ge.com wrote: Y' All According to page 21

Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 AUX Cable and KRC2

2011-06-29 Thread iain macdonnell - N6ML
On Wed, Jun 29, 2011 at 7:45 PM, n...@n5ge.com wrote: Problem found! With the help of Paul at Elecraft support we found the problem. If the PR6 is activating DIGOUT1 Of The K3 KPA500 while when the K3 is in transmit mode. Having a hard time parsing that sentence ;) ... but if you're using

[Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread cqbilld
I have broken the PTT line in the mike to operate the sequencer input (also have an external toggle switch to operate the sequencer as well.) The sequencer then operates the K3 PTT. This has worked very well on several different IF radios over the years. The K3 PTT line on the front panel

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Mel Farrer
I agree with one other element, the story must be at the level of the intended reader. Mel, K6KBE From: Jim Brown j...@audiosystemsgroup.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wed, June 29, 2011 11:09:15 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing On 6/29/2011

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Joe Subich, W4TV
The problem is that there are so many who never bother to ready the manuals these days ... and even more than can't read anything above the level of a graphic novel (a.k.a. comic book). It is nearly impossible to tell a technical story under those conditions. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread David Honey
Absolutely Mel. One of the skills is getting engineers to put themselves in the shoes of users and put aside much of the technical detail they know so intimately and tell a story without assuming the reader is an equal expert in the subject matter. In the software industry, it can be quite

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first?

2011-06-29 Thread WILLIS COOKE
Wayne, congratulations!  It did not take you long to find the secret.  I still listen to W1AW code practice from time to time and I have only been licensed since 1956.  It always pays to listen to well sent code from time to time along with the hodge podge of good and not so good code you hear

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Jack Chomley
Just like the user manual comic for the M16 Armalite, some 40 years ago :-) 73, Jack VK4JRC On Thu, Jun 30, 2011 at 7:43 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV li...@subich.com wrote: The problem is that there are so many who never bother to ready the manuals these days ... and even more than can't read

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Mel Farrer
You just described the level of education, ability to read and write of the average HS graduate the schools are putting out. Pitiful isn't it? Mel, K6KBE From: Joe Subich, W4TV li...@subich.com To: Mel Farrer farrerfo...@yahoo.com Cc:

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Mel Farrer
One of the greatest finds I made, years ago, was come across engineering books written prior to WWII. They don't assume anything and while it takes longer to get through a point, once there, education has been accomplished. Mel, K6KBE From: David Honey

[Elecraft] TX Inhibit options

2011-06-29 Thread Edward R. Cole
Roger, Just to be sure before writing you, I tested my K3 by pressing the XMIT key and the K3 goes immediately into Tx-mode but unless there is modulation in SSB/DATA or the CW key is pressed there is no RF output. If I press and hold so that the K3 goes into TUNE then RF is immediately

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Mel Farrer
Last thought on this. While in the manufacturing business years ago at KLM, we had complaints about the assembly instructions. From that point on, the receptionist had a new job title. Assembly instruction manual tester. When the manual got to the level where she could put the antenna

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Mike
At first glance I thought The problem is that there are so many who never bother to ready the manuals these days was a typo. Then I realized it is true. A well prepared manual is a joy! 73, Mike NF4L On 6/29/2011 5:43 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: The problem is that there are so many who

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Joe Subich, W4TV
At first glance I thought The problem is that there are so many who never bother to ready the manuals these days was a typo. Actually, it was a typo. While there may be those who don't care to prepare a quality manual, there are far more instances of users who simply don't care to even

Re: [Elecraft] Writing

2011-06-29 Thread k6rb
It's not just tech writing, but writing in general. I made a (very good) living as a writer (6 books published, many articles in print) since 1977. And, the world has changed so much since then. Plus, it's pervasive. I can't begin to tell you how many CEOs never get past the executive summary in a

[Elecraft] W7RDP/B on the air from Tam Valley

2011-06-29 Thread Doug Phillips
OK guys the XG3 (without boots) is on the air from CM87rv aimed a Mt. Daiblo. My K3 tells me the XG3 is at 50.06159. 73, Doug W7RDP/6 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help:

[Elecraft] So, how's the backlog on KPA500 kits going?

2011-06-29 Thread KD3RF
Are we getting any closer to getting caught up on the backlog? Are shipments still going out? Lots of KPA500 buyers wondering what the latest status is? Not seeing many reports beyond S/N 101 received... -- View this message in context:

Re: [Elecraft] So, how's the backlog on KPA500 kits going?

2011-06-29 Thread n5ge
Using #119 on 15m right now.. 73, Tom Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Wed, 29 Jun 2011 16:57:50 -0700 (PDT), KD3RF avav...@verizon.net wrote: Are we getting any closer to getting caught up on the backlog? Are shipments still going out? Lots of KPA500

[Elecraft] Tech Writing - reading the manual

2011-06-29 Thread Johnny Siu
Hello Joe,   Your observation is correct.  While many hams blame the manual of whatever radio is poorly written, they in fact simply do not border to read the manual.   There is even a test about 'how quick you can operate a radio without reading the manual'.   English is not my native language

Re: [Elecraft] So, how's the backlog on KPA500 kits going?

2011-06-29 Thread Van W1WCG
My KPA500 kit ordered 4/6 is due to arrive tomorrow... Whoopee!! Van, W1WCG North Haven, CT On 6/29/2011 7:57 PM, KD3RF wrote: Are we getting any closer to getting caught up on the backlog? Are shipments still going out? Lots of KPA500 buyers wondering what the latest status is? Not

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing - reading the manual

2011-06-29 Thread Tony Estep
There has been a substantial evolutionary change in documentation and support in technology, one that has put manuals in a much different relationship to the user than they had a decade ago. Some tech products come with no manual (e.g. iPhones). There are big hairy software extravaganzas that

Re: [Elecraft] Straight key first? (was: Re: K3 in the Media)

2011-06-29 Thread Jim Dunstan
At 06:06 PM 6/28/2011 -0700, you wrote: The hardest CW to copy (for me anyway) has insufficient spacing between letters or words. This is exactly what a keyer does NOT help you with! The operator has to learn to recognize what good CW sounds like. Does sending with a straight key help with

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Carl Clawson
Another advantage of iambic keying is that it's easy to send with your non-dominant hand, leaving the other hand free to write without juggling the pencil. Think about stringed instruments -- CW is music, after all. One of my elmers suggested this decades ago and I've been sending left-handed ever

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Don Wilhelm
OK, I have made a vow to learn to send with my right hand within the next year, so my left hand is free to write. Then I will not have to change any of the transmitters to reverse the paddles anymore. Being a Southpaw can be a good thing! 73, Don W3FPR On 6/29/2011 9:26 PM, Carl Clawson

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Tony Estep
On Wed, Jun 29, 2011 at 8:26 PM, Carl Clawson carlclaw...@frontier.comwrote: Another advantage of iambic keying is that it's easy to send with your non-dominant hand, leaving the other hand free... I remember as a Novice reading about legendary contester Katashi Nose, KH6IJ, who sent with one

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Dale Putnam
I learned with a straight key and a stick. It took me about half of one QSO to figure out swapping a pencil back and forth, along with throwing the t-r switch, and the mute switch, adjusting the tx, then keying the key, and reversing all that, pretty near made it necessary to use my off hand

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Kevin Rock
Or you could do what I did: shatter my right wrist in so many places they had to pin it together. For eight weeks I was in a cast that held my hand immobile; thus necessitating my entry into the world of left handedness. I learned to do every thing with my left hand, most especially

[Elecraft] OT: My other hand sending

2011-06-29 Thread Ken - K0PP
If you're confronted with a situation where you need to send with your other hand ... as in when you're visiting someone's station ... just turn the paddles around so the paddles face away from you and reach over the top. 73! Ken - K0PP

Re: [Elecraft] OT: My other hand sending

2011-06-29 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire
I used paddles just like I use a bug; with my arm lying on the table and rolling my wrist and hand from side to side. Sort of hard to do that reaching over the top, Hi! But I learned both a bug and paddles right handed in spite of being a southpaw so it was never an issue. Of course, back when

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Buddy Brannan
Heh. I just copy in my head. Have pretty much since the beginning. The only time I've ever written down anything during cw q's has been 1) traffic handling and 2) logging. When I remember to, lately, yes, I've slipped into lazy habits. With this in mind, I am still baffled when I hear people,

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread WILLIS COOKE
The M/G is only slightly lighter (800 lbs) than the TBL (900 lbs) and is located on the main deck cabin just forward of the crew quarters and about75 ft aft of the radio room.  The TCE M/G is in the same compartment and only weighs about 150 lbs.  I think of these 200 watt and 125 watt

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread WILLIS COOKE
For the commercial and military ops, it was all traffic handling and if you did not have a written copy, you didn't copy it.  It is pretty hard to head copy a very long message if it is five letter code groups or in a language that you are not fluent.  For that matter, it would be pretty hard

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Jim Brown
I guess I failed -- I said in language that the reader understands. 73, Jim K9YC On 6/29/2011 2:08 PM, Mel Farrer wrote: I agree with one other element, the story must be at the level of the intended reader. Mel, K6KBE

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Duncan Carter
When I passed the Extra test in 1958, I copied just over a minute continuously which was my printing speed limit; my script speed limit was lower. At that time I could copy code at 55 wpm on my electric Olympia but I've never been able to type that fast on a computer keyboard. Since then,

Re: [Elecraft] So, how's the backlog on KPA500 kits going?

2011-06-29 Thread David Yarnes
I also ordered mine (a kit) on 4/6, and just received the pre shipping confirmation of order request from Elecraft. So, mine should be on it's way in a few days or so. Obviously there were a great many orders placed early on, but they are making headway. We don't know how many orders

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Dave KK7SS
An Operations Manual group I wrote for a US Army Project was rejected with instructions that it was to be written to a Grade 7 education level! Including pictures, for example, of which way to turn a screwdriver to remove or insert a screw - and which end to use! I kid you not! -- Dave G

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread John KLim
Dave, I believe you. A very good friend of mine once told me anyone can idiot proof anything, but can they manager proof it? The basic answer was NO WAY! 73 ES CUL DE N3KHK = John R. Klim II ARRL LM, AMSAT LM 10-10: 68135 30MDG: 1820 QSL: LoTW,

Re: [Elecraft] Iambic Keying (WAS: Straight key first?)

2011-06-29 Thread Phil Kane
On 6/29/2011 8:48 PM, WILLIS COOKE wrote: For that matter, it would be pretty hard to head copy and then write a full minute with no errors to pass the FCC code test. Head copy is pretty much a ham radio thing. Starting in the late 1960s I was one of the FCC code examiners in San

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Phil Kane
On 6/29/2011 9:33 PM, Dave KK7SS wrote: An Operations Manual group I wrote for a US Army Project was rejected with instructions that it was to be written to a Grade 7 education level! Including pictures, for example, of which way to turn a screwdriver to remove or insert a screw - and which

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread gdaught6
A very good friend of mine once told me anyone can idiot proof anything, but can they manager proof it? The basic answer was NO WAY! Always keep Dilbert's 'pointy-haired boss' in mind. I was told by someone 'It is impossible to make anything foolproof, because fools are often terribly

Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing

2011-06-29 Thread Edward R. Cole
It helps. But if you are instructing someone it helps if it is non-fiction! -- Message: 6 Date: Wed, 29 Jun 2011 11:09:15 -0700 From: Jim Brown j...@audiosystemsgroup.com Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Tech Writing To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID:

Re: [Elecraft] K2 Erratic power control with base cw K2

2011-06-29 Thread Alastair Couper
My problem here turned out to be an incorrect value for C34, which was why the CW time constant was so far off. Now all is working normally with the proper value. Thanks for this great support forum. It is definitely part of the value of the K2.