Re: [Elecraft] OT: The Colpitts mystery
On 2020-04-27 11:06 p.m., Phil Kane wrote: On 4/27/2020 11:03 AM, Fred Jensen wrote: What was it with the FCC and the Colpitts oscillator schematic on the exams in the 50's/early 60's? It was on my General ['54] and Extra ['56] exams, and practically everyone else I've asked says it was on theirs too. There are other oscillator circuits of the day. Colpitts uses capacitive feedback which is somewhat more stable than a Hartley [snip] They had to pick one of the two, and the rest was inertia. Umm... there were three main oscillator types when I was first learning electronics. Colpitts, Hartley, and Armstrong. -- Cheers! Kevin. http://www.ve3syb.ca/ | "Nerds make the shiny things that https://www.patreon.com/KevinCozens | distract the mouth-breathers, and | that's why we're powerful" Owner of Elecraft K2 #2172 | #include | --Chris Hardwick __ 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] OT: The Colpitts mystery
I would imagine that a lot of people still know what transconductance is. That's how FETs work ... voltage control of current. Dave AB7E On 4/27/2020 8:06 PM, Phil Kane wrote: The Second Telegraph exam that I took about 8 years ago had the same questions as the one that you took "back when". Who remembers "transconductance" :) 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane Elecraft K2/100 s/n 5402 __ 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] OT: The Colpitts mystery
On 4/27/2020 11:03 AM, Fred Jensen wrote: > What was it with the FCC and the Colpitts oscillator schematic on the > exams in the 50's/early 60's? It was on my General ['54] and Extra > ['56] exams, and practically everyone else I've asked says it was on > theirs too. There are other oscillator circuits of the day. Colpitts > uses capacitive feedback which is somewhat more stable than a Hartley > with its "Tickler Coil," but the FCC seemed fixated on the Colpitts for > some reason. The schematic and operation of a dual-triode 1-shot was > also popular. They had to pick one of the two, and the rest was inertia. The Second Telegraph exam that I took about 8 years ago had the same questions as the one that you took "back when". Who remembers "transconductance" :) 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane Elecraft K2/100 s/n 5402 From a Clearing in the Silicon Forest Beaverton (Washington County) Oregon __ 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] April 26th, 2020 SSB Net log
Here is the list of stations that checked in to the Sunday Net. I want to thank the relay stations that helped out, NC0JW, Jim; K1NW, Brian; N4NRW, Roger and KO5V, Jim in New Mexico. We also have the newly created 40 m. net on 7.280 or close to it depending upon usage at 18:45 Z. The 20 meter net is on 14.303.5 at 18:00Z. All are welcome regardless of the type of radio. Call Name State Radio Serial # QRP NotesWB9JNZ Eric IL K3 4017 Net Control NC0JW Jim CO KX3 1356 Relay Statio KB9AVO Paul IN K3S 11103 K8NU/7 Carl OH/WA Yaesu FT 2000 WM6P Steve GA K3S 11453 Relay Station KD2LFE Jeff NM Icom 718 WB8PKK Ken MA Icom 7600 kpa 500 K1NW Brian RI K3 4974 Relay Station K7BRR Bill AZ K3/ K3S 5545 / 10939 N6PGQ Bob CA K3 5891 KC1ACL Steve NM KX3 10677 W1NGA Al CO K3 5765 NC5G George TX K2/100 2217 KF7ZN Ron UT K3S 10832 K6WDE Dave CA KX3 4599 KO5V Jim NM K2/100 7225 Relay StationK7JG John WA KX3 3519 W7QHD Kurt AZ K2/100 / Kx3 1538 / 8697K5APL Wes AR K2 3505 W4DML Doug TN K3 6433 NS7P Phil OR K3 1826 KC0EMO Kevin IA K3 561 N4NRW Roger SC K3 1318 W1DFB John AZ K3 ? N2ENQ Len NJ K3 5270 K4GCJ Garry NC K3 1597 N0MPM Mike IA K3S 10514 K6VWE Stan MI K3 650 K2VJK Vern NY K3S 10151 VE7JBT John BC KX2 2637 N7BDL Terry AZ K3S 10373 N9SRA Steve IL K3S 10563 __ 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] CW Note final update
After changing the High Voltage tap to ensure my full-load HV was above the 60V recommended in the manual for the KPA500, on-air tests show my signal is now absent any ringing. bell-like or otherwise distinctive sound. It is reported as sounding perfect. Resolution of this issue involved ensuring proper supply voltage under load to the K3S as well as to the KPA. Many thanks for the help from members of this list! -- 73 de Chuck, WS1L chandler...@gmail.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] OT: The Colpitts mystery
It was on the 2nd phone as well! Not sure if it was one I had to draw or just identify. My recollection is that the 2nd phone was much much harder than the present Extra. My commercial licenses were 1959. My Ham license is 2007. 73 George AI4VZ -Original Message- From: Fred Jensen Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 2:03 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] OT: The Colpitts mystery What was it with the FCC and the Colpitts oscillator schematic on the exams in the 50's/early 60's? It was on my General ['54] and Extra ['56] exams, and practically everyone else I've asked says it was on theirs too. There are other oscillator circuits of the day. Colpitts uses capacitive feedback which is somewhat more stable than a Hartley with its "Tickler Coil," but the FCC seemed fixated on the Colpitts for some reason. The schematic and operation of a dual-triode 1-shot was also popular. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 4/26/2020 7:28 PM, N4ZR wrote: > As for the licensing tests, did you have to draw a Colpitts > oscillator? IIRC, that was on my General exam in 1955. __ 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 gdanne...@gmail.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] Test
Thanks, Ian! I'll watch for the certificate in the mail. :) On 4/27/2020 3:16 PM, Ian Kahn wrote: Congratulations! You passed! __ 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] Test
Congratulations! You passed! 73 de, Ian, NV4C On Mon, Apr 27, 2020, 4:31 PM Dale Kretzer wrote: > Test > > __ > 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 nv4c@gmail.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] Rear panel mike jack
Hi Dennis, I replaced mine a few years back with Switchcraft jacks from Mouser. Unfortunately, I can't find any record of which part(s) I used. Looking at the Mouser site, I believe this is the Switchcraft series: https://www.mouser.com/datasheet/2/393/35rapc__hn2_cd-475095.pdf Just check dimensions to verify it's the right part and order the correct pin configuration (mono, stereo, switched or unswitched). Hope that helps. 73, Josh W6XU On 4/27/2020 3:37 AM, Dennis W1UE wrote: I have a K3 with a rear panel mike jack and the rear panel Line Out jack that have become intermittent. I can find the Line Out jack on the Elecraft website, but not the Mike input jack. Are they the same part number? For that matter, are all those jacks the same part number? And is there a replacement that can be purchased from Mouser or other supplier? Dennis W1UE __ 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] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier
Mike, To amplify what Dave has said, let me make 2 points. 1) The KPA100 fits on top of the K2 in place of the QRP top cover. Anything mounted in the QRP top cover is physically replaced by the KPA100. In your case it will be the KAT2 and KIO2. The KPA100 fits physically on the top of the K2 in the same place as the QRP top cover. They cannot both occupy the same physical space. 2) If you need a tuner for your antennas, then it will need to be rated for the full power output of the 100 watt (KPA100 equipped) transceiver. The KAT100 will do that job nicely, and integrates well with the K2. If you ever plan to operate portable, then you can remove the KPA100 (6 screws) and put the QRP top cover on in its place. That will give you a more lightweight portable package. If you are hiking, the less weight, the better. 73, Don W3FPR On 4/27/2020 4:11 PM, Mike Kopacki wrote: Dave, I’ve looked at the KPA100 manual and I saw that it has it’s own I/O input and circuitry. But I didn’t see anything saying that the installed KAT2 would not be used. There is reference to testing the KPA100 at levels as low as 5 watts. So that tells me that the rig can still be used at QRP levels with the KPA100 installed. Is that correct? Thanks, Mike NJ2OM On Apr 27, 2020, at 3:21 PM, Dave Van Wallaghen wrote: __ 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] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier
Mike, No, the KPA100 actually physically replaces the top cover where the KAT2 is mounted. The KAT2 is not designed to work with anything but the basic 10 watt K2 version. Yes, the K2 with KPA100 can produce anywhere from 0 - 100+ watts. The KPA100 amplifier stage is actually bypassed for the 0-11 watt power range, but no way to use the KAT2 in that configuration. Only the KAT100 ATU or similar brand that can handle 100+ watts can be used as an ATU after the KPA100. 73, Dave, W8FGU On 4/27/2020 4:11:48 PM, "Mike Kopacki" wrote: Dave, I’ve looked at the KPA100 manual and I saw that it has it’s own I/O input and circuitry. But I didn’t see anything saying that the installed KAT2 would not be used. There is reference to testing the KPA100 at levels as low as 5 watts. So that tells me that the rig can still be used at QRP levels with the KPA100 installed. Is that correct? Thanks, Mike NJ2OM On Apr 27, 2020, at 3:21 PM, Dave Van Wallaghen wrote: __ 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] Test
Test __ 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] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier
Dave, I’ve looked at the KPA100 manual and I saw that it has it’s own I/O input and circuitry. But I didn’t see anything saying that the installed KAT2 would not be used. There is reference to testing the KPA100 at levels as low as 5 watts. So that tells me that the rig can still be used at QRP levels with the KPA100 installed. Is that correct? Thanks, Mike NJ2OM > On Apr 27, 2020, at 3:21 PM, Dave Van Wallaghen wrote: > __ 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] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier
Mike, The KAT2 is the QRP version of an ATU used with the base K2. It can handle up to 20 watts. If you need an ATU to work with your KPA100, then you would need the higher KAT100 that will handle 150 watts. The KAT2 and KIO2 mount in the top cover of the base K2. The KPA100 replaces that whole cover. So neither board could be used with the KPA100 installed (as well as the KBT2 battery option). Many ops who upgrade their K2'S with the KPA100, simply keep the top cove around with those options installed and in the event they want to operate QRP, they simply swap the top cover with the KPA100. This is the wonderful nature of the modular design of the K2. Again, I hope this helps and is not clear as mud. 73, Dave, W8FGU On April 27, 2020 14:44:02 Mike Kopacki wrote: Thanks, Dave. You’re saying that the KAT2 that I have now has to be replaced? I wonder if that’s included in the KPA 100 kit? 73, Mike NJ2OM Sent from Mail for Windows 10 From: Dave Van Wallaghen Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 2:24 PM To: NJMike; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier Mike, The amp will fit just fine with your current configuration. Although, the KAT2 and KIO2 boards will stay with the original top cover. The KPA100 includes the KIO2 circuitry. If you need an ATU for use with the KPA100, then you will want a KAT100 ATU or other brand that can handle 100+ watts. Hope this answers your question. 73, Dave, W8FGU On April 27, 2020 14:18:04 NJMike wrote: I built K2 #4619 some years ago. Now I am considering adding the KPA 100 amplifier. When I bought and built the K2, I also built and installed the following option3: KAT2 automatic antenna tuner KSB2 SSB adapter KDSP2 DSP filter and internal clock KIO2 AUX I/O module KNB2 noise blanker K160RX 160 meter module MH2 microphone On the technical side, I need to know if the amp can be installed after installing all these options. On the purchasing side, I guess my options are purchasing from Elecraft for $650 (which I am sure is worth the price), or buying one from someone who bought one but never built it. I am retired now so I'm trying to spend as little as I can. Please let me know if you have one that you'll sell, and if you know the answer to the first question. Thanks! Mike NJ2OM -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to d...@w8fgu.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] OT: The Colpitts mystery
Mine was the push-pull triode RF amplifier (not "linear"!), making sure to show the neutralization circuit. They didn't want any high-powered self-excited oscillators on the bands! 73, Victor, 4X6GP Rehovot, Israel Formerly K2VCO CWops no. 5 http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ On 27/04/2020 21:03, Fred Jensen wrote: What was it with the FCC and the Colpitts oscillator schematic on the exams in the 50's/early 60's? It was on my General ['54] and Extra ['56] exams, and practically everyone else I've asked says it was on theirs too. There are other oscillator circuits of the day. Colpitts uses capacitive feedback which is somewhat more stable than a Hartley with its "Tickler Coil," but the FCC seemed fixated on the Colpitts for some reason. The schematic and operation of a dual-triode 1-shot was also popular. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 4/26/2020 7:28 PM, N4ZR wrote: As for the licensing tests, did you have to draw a Colpitts oscillator? IIRC, that was on my General exam in 1955. __ 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] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier
__ 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] OT: The Colpitts mystery
The Colpitts oscillator was regarded as being the most stable oscillator, which is why it probably was always there, and it was indeed on my test in the mid-60's. But the Hartley oscillator was also on my test if I remember correctly, as was the tuned-plate tuned grid oscillator. If I remember correctly, I had to identify each of at least three oscillator types. The series tuned Colpitts (aka Clapp oscillator) might have been there ... maybe the Pierce crystal oscillator also. I remember that I was required to be able to tell a bunch of them apart. Dave AB7E On 4/27/2020 11:03 AM, Fred Jensen wrote: What was it with the FCC and the Colpitts oscillator schematic on the exams in the 50's/early 60's? It was on my General ['54] and Extra ['56] exams, and practically everyone else I've asked says it was on theirs too. There are other oscillator circuits of the day. Colpitts uses capacitive feedback which is somewhat more stable than a Hartley with its "Tickler Coil," but the FCC seemed fixated on the Colpitts for some reason. The schematic and operation of a dual-triode 1-shot was also popular. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County __ 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] Voltage drop in DC Power to K3
On 4/26/2020 8:33 PM, Charlie T wrote: From the wire tables, I think you'll find that doubling the number of wires will result in an equivalent of one cable 3 wire sizes larger. Yep. Three wire gauges is double the cross sectional area. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier
Mike, The amp will fit just fine with your current configuration. Although, the KAT2 and KIO2 boards will stay with the original top cover. The KPA100 includes the KIO2 circuitry. If you need an ATU for use with the KPA100, then you will want a KAT100 ATU or other brand that can handle 100+ watts. Hope this answers your question. 73, Dave, W8FGU On April 27, 2020 14:18:04 NJMike wrote: I built K2 #4619 some years ago. Now I am considering adding the KPA 100 amplifier. When I bought and built the K2, I also built and installed the following option3: KAT2 automatic antenna tuner KSB2 SSB adapter KDSP2 DSP filter and internal clock KIO2 AUX I/O module KNB2 noise blanker K160RX 160 meter module MH2 microphone On the technical side, I need to know if the amp can be installed after installing all these options. On the purchasing side, I guess my options are purchasing from Elecraft for $650 (which I am sure is worth the price), or buying one from someone who bought one but never built it. I am retired now so I'm trying to spend as little as I can. Please let me know if you have one that you'll sell, and if you know the answer to the first question. Thanks! Mike NJ2OM -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to d...@w8fgu.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] K2 Looking for a KPA 100 amplifier
I built K2 #4619 some years ago. Now I am considering adding the KPA 100 amplifier. When I bought and built the K2, I also built and installed the following option3: KAT2 automatic antenna tuner KSB2 SSB adapter KDSP2 DSP filter and internal clock KIO2 AUX I/O module KNB2 noise blanker K160RX 160 meter module MH2 microphone On the technical side, I need to know if the amp can be installed after installing all these options. On the purchasing side, I guess my options are purchasing from Elecraft for $650 (which I am sure is worth the price), or buying one from someone who bought one but never built it. I am retired now so I'm trying to spend as little as I can. Please let me know if you have one that you'll sell, and if you know the answer to the first question. Thanks! Mike NJ2OM -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Voltage drop in power cable
I wonder what the time constant is for that sense to respond...say to CW or SSB Jack BMW Motorcycles Chuck KE9UW c-haw...@illinois.edu Sent from my iPad > On Apr 27, 2020, at 6:48 AM, Joe wrote: > > For the purest, a possible fix would be to use a power supply that uses > sense leads to regulate the output voltage like my old Lambda power supply > does. I don't use the Lambda for the ham shack, but this would solve the > problem. The sense leads would be connected as close to the transceiver as > possible. They send a sample of the voltage at that point back to the power > supply so the power supply can properly regulate the voltage at that point. > The sense wires are typically small gauge wire because they don't carry much > current at all. For safety, the sense lead should be fused at the voltage > source. I would only use the supply to power the transceiver, or make sure > all equipment is powered from the same point as the transceiver to avoid > over-voltage to other equipment. > > Joe, K1ike > __ > 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 c-haw...@illinois.edu __ 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] OT: The Colpitts mystery
What was it with the FCC and the Colpitts oscillator schematic on the exams in the 50's/early 60's? It was on my General ['54] and Extra ['56] exams, and practically everyone else I've asked says it was on theirs too. There are other oscillator circuits of the day. Colpitts uses capacitive feedback which is somewhat more stable than a Hartley with its "Tickler Coil," but the FCC seemed fixated on the Colpitts for some reason. The schematic and operation of a dual-triode 1-shot was also popular. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 4/26/2020 7:28 PM, N4ZR wrote: As for the licensing tests, did you have to draw a Colpitts oscillator? IIRC, that was on my General exam in 1955. __ 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] Voltage drop in DC Power to K3
>From the wire tables, I think you'll find that doubling the number of wires will result in an equivalent of one cable 3 wire sizes larger. That is, two #18 wires equals one #15 ( and yes, I KNOW there isn't any #15 wire easily available). Likewise, two #12 wires is the same as one #9. So, from this, the hassle of using two #12 wires is only slightly better than one #10, but not quite as good as one #8. Obviously, every installation may be unique, so use the largest you're comfortable with. 73, Charlie k3ICH -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Jim Brown Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2020 6:39 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Voltage drop in DC Power to K3 On 4/26/2020 10:18 AM, Pete Lascell wrote: > When making connections unravel a few outside strands and cut off so the remaining strands will fit the terminals being used correctly. The smaller (higher resistance) section of cable will be only part of an inch. Heatshrink tubing will cover the unsightly chop job. Yep. And I've also used W1ZR's solution of two of the same size cables in parallel. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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 pin...@erols.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] Power supply V drop - was poor CW on K3S
Well, if you simply "must" have a fuse, use the type that those monster car blasters use, an AGU (5AG) type. They are 1½" long and 13/32" in diameter with usually gold plated endcaps. The holders are up to the task as well, with low resistance gold plated pressure fit caps, and are typically water proof. They have hex key set screws for the (BEEEG) wire connection. Perfect for under hood or home use with fuses available from 100 mA up to 200 Amp ratings at 32VDC. I don't think you can find a more efficient fuse & holder for low voltage drop. 73, Charlie k3ICH -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Fred Jensen Sent: Saturday, April 25, 2020 2:20 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Power supply V drop - was poor CW on K3S "glass fuses"? You want to avoid the in-line cylindrical cartridge fuses, the holders almost always have too much resistance. Blade-type automotive fuses are much better ... much more contact surface, much more contact pressure, and a wiping action as you insert the fuse. A drop of DeOxit on the blades as you insert the fuse will also help. If this is a fixed installation and your power supply has some form of overcurrent protection [e.g. crowbar], there may be no need for any fuses in the power cable. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 4/25/2020 9:01 AM, Chuck Chandler wrote: > Here's an update. > > I replaced the power cable running from the powerstrip with a 3-foot > length with glass fuse holders in each leg. I also adjusted the power > supply to 14.50V at rest. The K3S now shows 14.2V at rest. At 100W > TX the K3S shows 13.2V, so a 1 volt drop. Way too much. > > The power supply voltage measured at the terminals drops from 14.50 to > 14.44 for full power TX. This seems too much, I had read the drop > should be no more than 0.01V and this is 0.06V. > > So, suspecting the in line fuse holders I made up another cable with > dual blade-fuse holders, which was worse. TX voltage on the K3S > display dropped to 12.9V. > > I'm suspecting my power supply is to blame - it's a TenTec 963, a > re-branded Astron SS-30. Alternatively, I have another commercial > power cable with fuse holders I can cut down and try. > > Many thanks for all the help both here on the reflector and the direct > emails from several fellows, and to Rich VE3KI for the on-air tests > this morning! > > 73 de Chuck, WS1L > __ 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 pin...@erols.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] Rear Panel Mike Jack
Dennis, I had the same problem with the line out jack. Spraying contact cleaner on a plug and working it around didn't help; one channel was open. You need to replace the whole board unless you want a huge task. Find someone who has upgraded his K-3 to a K-3s. He will probably have the old board to give you. It's the KIO3 I/O audio module. Most likely someone seeing this message can help. Jim W6YA __ 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] Blank emails
On 4/27/2020 8:02 AM, Chuck Chandler wrote: For some reason when I send an email to the list from Windows Mail it shows up empty. Other clients seem ok. Anyone else seen this? Many email reflectors reject formatted text. This is one of them. I use Thunderbird, an excellent, full-featured email client, freeware from the same company that produces FireFox. It can be set to do formatting or send plain text. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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] Blank emails
If your email client sends HTML content only the email reflector will throw it away. In your settings select both HTML and plain text. Then the reflector will send it along. -de John NI0K Chuck Chandler wrote on 4/27/2020 10:02 AM: For some reason when I send an email to the list from Windows Mail it shows up empty. Other clients seem ok. Anyone else seen this? 73 de Chuck, WS1L __ 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] Blank emails
For some reason when I send an email to the list from Windows Mail it shows up empty. Other clients seem ok. Anyone else seen this? 73 de Chuck, WS1L -- Sent from Gmail Mobile Chuck Chandler chandler...@gmail.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] Poor CW note waveform resolved
Apparently one of my email clients is sending something the list won't accept. Here's my earlier email, hope it makes it! Well, I finally figured out why I was seeing a sausage-shaped waveform on the P3. I looked very carefully at the photo of a CW waveform shown in the P3 manual and tried to duplicate it exactly. I had been using the Spectrum and waterfall displays, so I disabled the waterfall display. The waveform looked better. Then I read the time scale at the bottom of the picture in the manual – mine was way off. Mine had been set at the default setting for Mod Scale of 25. In order to duplicate the picture in the manual I had to increase this to 100. That gave me the identical spacing of marks and value (10 mSec/mark) as in the picture. Once I did that, my displayed waveform looked identical to those in the manual. So, one problem solved… or perhaps resolved is a better word, as there is no indication the waveform was ever actually soft. Still a little more work to do on the CW sounding a little off at QRO QRQ. I’ll adjust the HV tap to bring full-load HV back up above 60V and see if that takes care of it. Many thanks for all the help and advice. 73 de Chuck, WS1L On Mon, Apr 27, 2020 at 9:08 AM Chuck Chandler wrote: > Well, I finally figured out why I was seeing a sausage-shaped waveform on > the P3. I looked very carefully at the photo of a CW waveform shown in the > P3 manual and tried to duplicate it exactly. I had been using the Spectrum > and waterfall displays, so I disabled the waterfall display. The waveform > looked better. Then I read the time scale at the bottom of the picture in > the manual – mine was way off. Mine had been set at the default setting > for Mod Scale of 25. In order to duplicate the picture in the manual I had > to increase this to 100. That gave me the identical spacing of marks and > value (10 mSec/mark) as in the picture. > > > > Once I did that, my displayed waveform looked identical to those in the > manual. So, one problem solved… or perhaps resolved is a better word, as > there is no indication the waveform was ever actually soft. > > > > Still a little more work to do on the CW sounding a little off at QRO > QRQ. I’ll adjust the HV tap to bring full-load HV back up above 60V and > see if that takes care of it. > > > > Many thanks for all the help and advice. > > > > 73 de Chuck, WS1L > > > Chuck Chandler > chandler...@gmail.com > > > > > *From: *Chuck Chandler > *Sent: *Sunday, April 26, 2020 7:47 PM > *To: *Dick Dievendorff > *Cc: *Andy Durbin ; elecraft@mailman.qth.net > *Subject: *Re: [Elecraft] Poor CW note more testing and a question > (rather long-ish...) > > > > My EXT ALC menu is set to the default of OFF t-40. The soft waveform is > displayed on the P3 apparently the same shape whether the amp is in use or > standby. > > > > 73, > > > > Chuck, WS1L > > > > On Sun, Apr 26, 2020 at 19:36 Dick Dievendorff wrote: > > External ALC is enabled on the K3 and K3S with a menu entry that defaults > to > OFF. See page 29 of the K3S owner's manual. > > 73 de Dick, K6KR > > -Original Message- > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net > On > Behalf Of Andy Durbin > Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2020 17:20 > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Poor CW note more testing and a question (rather > long-ish...) > > "In general, ALC between an amp and a rig is a recipe for clicks and > splatter. Most authorities advise against using it. This is not new -- it's > in the manual for Ten Tec legal limit amps from the late '70s and for every > amp I've owned since." > > The OP has a KPA500 and K3S interconnect by an Elecraft AUX cable. This > means that ALC is connected (Aux cable pin 15) and opens the possibility > that it is not configured correctly. What I don't know is whether > incorrectly configured ALC could cause the reported problem. I suspect > that > would depend on the time constant(s) of the ALC loop. > > 73, > Andy, k3wyc > > > __ > 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 d...@elecraft.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 chandler...@gmail.com > > -- > > Sent from Gmail Mobile Chuck Chandler chandler...@gmail.com > > > -- === Chuck Chandler chandler...@gmail.com ===
Re: [Elecraft] Poor CW note waveform resolved
Well don't leave us in suspense! What was it? K4TO On Mon, Apr 27, 2020 at 10:09 AM Chuck Chandler wrote: > > __ > 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 k...@arrl.net > __ 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] Poor CW note waveform resolved
__ 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] Voltage drop in power cable
For the purest, a possible fix would be to use a power supply that uses sense leads to regulate the output voltage like my old Lambda power supply does. I don't use the Lambda for the ham shack, but this would solve the problem. The sense leads would be connected as close to the transceiver as possible. They send a sample of the voltage at that point back to the power supply so the power supply can properly regulate the voltage at that point. The sense wires are typically small gauge wire because they don't carry much current at all. For safety, the sense lead should be fused at the voltage source. I would only use the supply to power the transceiver, or make sure all equipment is powered from the same point as the transceiver to avoid over-voltage to other equipment. Joe, K1ike __ 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] Rear panel mike jack
I have a K3 with a rear panel mike jack and the rear panel Line Out jack that have become intermittent. I can find the Line Out jack on the Elecraft website, but not the Mike input jack. Are they the same part number? For that matter, are all those jacks the same part number? And is there a replacement that can be purchased from Mouser or other supplier? Dennis W1UE __ 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] RX Ant K3 Preamp vs External Preamp
Indeed! Most eme'rs encounter this issue some point in their operation. I started out on 144-MHz with only 100w on CW. Then began use of digital in 2003. But it was not until I started running above 800w in 2011 that I began to see preamp failure. I like my preamps to not see RF over 0 dBm (1mw) so that implies the need for 61.8 dB isolation if running 1500w. Initially I was using a coax relay with only 45-dB isolation. So I upgraded to better relays (spec > 80-dB). But there are two other paths for RF to reach the preamp: 1) thru the dc power leads (solved by using RG-58 for my power leads), 2) poor shielding in coax jumper from relay to preamp (solved by using double-shielded RG-142). I also use a sequencer for controlling relay and amp transfer to transmit (to avoid hot-switching the relay). These are probably good arguments for using the internal preamp in a K3S or PR6 at the K3. Internal TR switching protects them. 73, Ed but the 6M antenna on which I would use it is within 10 ft of two antennas with which I run legal limit, and I have concerns that it would survive up there. :) My compromise is 7/8-in hard line for those antennas, which minimizes the loss, and thus the advantage of a mast-mounted preamp. 73, Jim K9YC 73, Ed - KL7UW http://www.kl7uw.com Dubus-NA Business mail: dubus...@gmail.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] RX Ant K3 Preamp vs External Preamp
Assuming this question is for the K3, K3S, and K4, then the only bands that preamp NF and preamp location matter is on 10m & 6m. I run eme on 50, 144, and 1296 MHz; at 144 and above a so-called masthead preamp (close to antenna) makes a difference in receiver sensitivity (ability to hear the weak one's). At 50-MHz I use an ARR P50VDG preamp at the base of my eme tower. But its a very marginal improvement over using the PR6 on back of my K3. For all non-eme operating I just use the PR6. I believe the PR6 is not needed in the K3S and K4. If your coax line loss is under 1-dB locating the preamp at the radio works fine. Most 6m-eme stations have under 1-dB loss and place their preamp at the radio. PR6 helps my 2010 era K3 on 10m as well. I never use the internal preamp with either the PR6 or ARR preamps, but sometimes use it on 20m or 17m. 30, 40, and 80m do not need any preamp as those bands are sky noise limited (for most of us). 73, Ed - KL7UW http://www.kl7uw.com Dubus-NA Business mail: dubus...@gmail.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] RX Ant K3 Preamp vs External Preamp
On 4/26/2020 8:26 PM, Rich wrote: I was talking about RX antennas, like Beverages and such, so mainly 40m and 80m. I am happy with the K3 pre-amp I was just curious to what others use As always, W3LPL's response is pretty much on the money for this. The slightly longer short answer is that it depends on the antenna and the noise where you use it. Some RX antennas have far higher output than others. Beverages, for example, have fairly high output, so the preamp built into most radios is plenty good enough, even in a quiet location. Smaller antennas are more likely to need an outboard preamp. Some need a preamp at the antenna. There's greater discussion of this in this piece that I wrote for National Contest Journal a few years ago. http://k9yc.com/RXChokesTransformers.pdf 73, Jim K9YC __ 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] Voltage drop in DX Power to K3
On 4/26/2020 7:28 PM, N4ZR wrote: did you have to draw a Colpitts oscillator? IIRC, that was on my General exam in 1955. Yep. It was one of several we had to learn. :) With the power strip, what's wrong with measuring the voltage in and out, knowing the current being drawn, and deriving the resistance from that? Because most instrumentation available to hams isn't accurate enough. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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] RX Ant K3 Preamp vs External Preamp
On 4/26/2020 4:32 PM, Rich wrote: Is it best to use the K3 internal pre-amp or add an external pre-amp to the RX antenna system? Unless you operate in a VERY quiet location, it's hard to beat the preamp in the K3S (and that was offered as an accessory for the K3). The preamp in the original K3 was not very good, and really needed the accessory unit they offered for 12M and above. I have a outboard GAsFet preamp designed for 6M that is slightly better than the K3S preamp, and that I bought long before there was a K3. As it turns out, it also works well down to 12M. I used it with my K3 at the patch point. I've since replaced the transverter module in my K3s to get that upgraded preamp. Bob is certainly correct about the virtue of a preamp at the antenna, but the 6M antenna on which I would use it is within 10 ft of two antennas with which I run legal limit, and I have concerns that it would survive up there. :) My compromise is 7/8-in hard line for those antennas, which minimizes the loss, and thus the advantage of a mast-mounted preamp. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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
