Re: [Elecraft] KXUSB pinout
The cable shown in the XG3 manual can be ordered from Elecraft as the KXSER cable. Or it is easy to build your own if you have the proper connectors. The KXUSB has the same pinout at the KX2/KX3/XG3 end, but plugs into a USB port instead of a serial port. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/17/2020 9:54 PM, M. George wrote: Is the same cable as you would use with the Elecraft XG3, take a look at the end of the XG3 manual: https://ftp.elecraft.com/XG3/Manuals%20Downloads/E740154%20XG3%20Owner%27s%20Manual.pdf The tip(1) is TX and the Ring(2) is RX... and well you guessed it... the Sleeve(3) is Ground. So on a DB9 (D-Sub) connector, pin 3 goes to the Tip, Pin 2 goes to the Ring and Pin 5 to the Sleeve. __ 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] Off-Topic: Your advice/suggestion about antenna
If I recall correctly, the original question in this thread was about the effectiveness of radials over rocky ground. We have gone far astray from that consideration. I am trying to bring it back to 'ground zero'. As I recall, the question was about a vertical whose feedpoint was above the ground - rocky or not. Let me add some conceptual thoughts. Does anyone remember the Ground Plane vertical that was popular back in the 1960s and 1970s (and is still commonly used on VHF today)? A 1/4 wavelength vertical radiator with usually 4 1/4 wavelength radials from the base. It was often mounted on a roof, and the radials sloped downward along the roof providing a feedpoint impedance near 50 ohms as opposed to 35 ohms if the radials are perpendicular to the vertical member. That antenna has a nice low angle of radiation, which is good for far away stations. A dipole has a higher angle of radiation, and will outperform the vertical at near-in distances. A high dipole (at least 1 wavelength high) will also have equal low angle radiation to the vertical. To work effectively, the radials must be arranged symmetrically, so each pair will cancel the horizontally polarized radiation. Actually only 2 radials are required for that, but they must be arranged 180 degrees from each other. For best performance, the radials should be tuned to the center frequency of interest - just like tuning a dipole. This is what is known today as a vertical with raised (or elevated) radials. It is ground independent in contrast to a typical vertical with buried radials which is quite dependent on ground conductivity. In comparing a vertical with a dipole, remember that a good vertical has its best radiation at a low takeoff angle, while a dipole will have its best radiation at a much higher angle. Listening tests will make the dipole have much better performance when there are a lot of stations in the 400 to 800 mile radius of the station, while the vertical will 'reach out further' while suppressing the strength of the nearby signals. So all this talk about how many dBi is nonsensical unless a specific angle of radiation is being stated as well. A good vertical has better low angle radiation than a dipole, and rejects high angle signals. A dipole that is low in terms of wavelength has a high angle component of radiation. That means to me that a dipole mounted at a modest height for 160, 80, and 40 will provide local as well as moderately distant contacts easily. A proper vertical will provide more DX contacts, and weaken the receive signals for more close-in stations - it is all in the angle of radiation - how many miles does the signal travel before it is reflected by the ionosphere? It is all a matter of physics and geometry. 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Possible K3 Line Input Damage
Mike, This sound to me like you have to make a trip to the remote site to see what is going on. A soundcard failure may have applied DC voltage to the K3 and damaged it (but I have never heard of that happening). You may have a soundcard failure of some sort and no audio is getting to the K3 - so go to the site with another soundcard in hand to use if necessary. When testing with the new soundcard, if the Line In does not work, lower the computer output of the soundcard and try Mic In (change the MIC SEL menu). If that gets audio to the K3 while Line In does not, then contact supp...@elecraft.com to see where you should go from that point. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/9/2020 7:50 PM, Michael Tope wrote: Recently I've made some configuration changes at my remote station that should in the end improve things. In the short term, however, it has caused problems when working voice. Specifically I was getting feedback if I raised the line out level on the PC too far past a certain threshold which seem to depend on the K3 compressor settings (in case you are wondering, yes, the K3 monitor level was set to 0). Despite these problems, I was able to make some 40 meter SSB contacts Sunday morning during the ARRL DX Phone contest. On Sunday afternoon, I connected to the remote with about ten minutes to go in the contest and heard PY0F calling CQ on 20 meters with a very loud signal. Not having touched the settings from the night before, I figured I would tweak the tuning on the KAT-500 and then just call him. Things did not go well. The rig broke into audio feedback and I lost transmit/receive control for what seemed like a forever, but was probably in reality only about 15 seconds. After I regained control of the rig, I power cycled the rig and then power cycled the computer (I can do that remotely). The K3 still works fine on CW, but I can no longer operate SSB. TeamViewer indicates I am getting audio to the remote site, but the radio no longer responds. I've tried both VOX and manually switching to transmit. Either way, I get nothing. I even tried playing a local audio source on the computer at the remote site which should have gone straight into the K3. I still got nothing. IS IT POSSIBLE TO DAMAGE THE LINE INPUT OF THE K3 IF IT IS OVERDRIVEN BY A SOUNDCARD LINE OUTPUT OR DOES THE K3 SOMEHOW SELF-PROTECT? IF THE FORMER, WHAT PART IN THE K3 SERVES AS THE "FUSE"? I know it is premature to assume the K3 is damaged as I haven't physically been to the remote site test the rig since the incident, but I wanted to understand what the worst-case scenarios might look like. __ 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] 20 KHz wide signal in K3 on CW
Ignacy, It sounds to me like you (and the gentleman with the 20kHz wide signal) have a problem with your K3 - that is not normal. I suggest you contact supp...@elecraft.com. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/11/2020 11:09 AM, Ignacy wrote: A while ago, one station in a contest had a 20 KHz wide signal. I send him email and he replied that he had K3. Yesterday I was calling D2EB on 3521 and got lots of angry reports about my signal jamming everything around. One station sent a panadapter screen. There are spurs about every 700 Hz. The first one is -15db from the main signal, the second -25db, and 3 KHz away it is -35 db. I checked the radio later with a SDR. It had spurs but not as big. I checked the radio today, and the spurs seem almost gone. My K3 is #2283. Ignacy, NO9E -- 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 donw...@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] KXFL3 Adjustments
Mike, I assume you are using the internal oscillator. Do you have a 2 turn loop on that 'piece of small coax'? If not, you will not have a sufficiently strong signal. Set the menu values back to the defaults and try again. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/8/2020 10:49 PM, Mike Short wrote: I am doing the alignment following the install, and I do not hear any difference regardless of phase/gain, or preamp setting. There is also no difference in S meter display either. I am using a piece of small coax as the pickup antenna. Any suggestions? __ 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] FS: KPAKAUX cable set
The AUX Cable uses the ACC connector, not the serial port or the USB port. Are you certain you are offering the AUX cable that fits into the 15 pin connectors? So it can be used with the older K3 with the RS232 port or the newer KIO3B with the USB connector. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/6/2020 4:51 PM, Mike Maloney wrote: New unused AUX Cable set Optional KPA500 or KPA1500 to K3S/K3. Wont play with my older K3 version with serial port. Asking $30 shipped CONUS only. Mike AC5P __ 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] Extra Protection For KPA500?
Tony, Look at the CONFIG Menu description in the manual. Turn CONFIG:PWR SET to Per Band and then with the AMP on, go to each band and set the proper power to drive the amp on that band. With the AMP off, you should have full range of the Power control. Yes, you need the AUX cable so the K3 knows the state of the amplifier. If you have the KAT500 as well, you will need 2 AUX cables. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/6/2020 2:07 PM, Tony wrote: Tony, The Config Menu has a Per-Band power setting (PWR SET = PEr bAnd) that will set the power output depending on the band selected. If you use the Aux cable between the K3 and KPA500 is is fully automatic and seamless. 73 George AI4VZ George: I must be missing something because when I select PER BAND in the config menu, there's no power setting to set. It doesn't display the power like TUN PWR does where the tune power is shown within that menu item so you can adjust it. I have to order the AUX cable, but in the meantime I'd like to use this setting with the K3S so any suggestions would be appreciated. Tony __ 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 donw...@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] Extra Protection For KPA500?
Rick, When you move into the new shack location, consider getting the new AUX cables from Elecraft. If your original ones have a large (about 1/4 inch diameter) cable, the new ones are smaller and more flexible. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/5/2020 5:57 PM, Rick Bates, NK7I wrote: Don et al, On occasion the signal that the amp goes into Operate mode is not passed along (or received, I don't know which), which means that the K3 will operate at higher than required drive level, for a moment only because the KPA500 will fault VERY quickly protecting everything. However, I am unable to come up with a viable pair of suspenders, so I simply try to be more aware when the amp goes hot. The reverse can be true too; the K3 thinks the amp is still in operate (but it isn't) and transmits at lower than expected output. __ 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] Extra Protection For KPA500?
Curiosity is getting the best of me -- If the built-in protection works well, why do you need more protection? If the belt works OK, then why add suspenders as well? If you are operating a K3 or K3S, there is a per band power level that can be used. It will automatically use the settings for the amplifier when the KPA500 is set to operate. That can be considered your 2nd level of protection and it guards against "fumble fingers" 73, Don W3FPR On 3/5/2020 2:35 PM, Tony wrote: All: I'd like to avoid the inevitable situation where one mistakenly transmits too much power into an amplifier. I have a KPA500 and the protection circuit works well, but I was wondering what can be done to add an extra layer of protection? Tony __ 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] Unusual Behavior K3S / KPA500 Drive Power Greater Than 12 watts
Tony, The other comments are correct, but I will add one more. Adjust the SSB audio so that you have 5 to 7 bars on the ALC meter when talking into the mic. If you have less than that, the K3/K3S will "Power Hunt" trying to keep up with the requested power. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 9:20 PM, Tony wrote: Rick Et al: The K3S makes 110 watts measured so the rigs finals appear to be just fine. Audio is also clean with no distortion. After further testing, I found that the power drop is only momentary. The RF output on the KPA500 does drop when the drive on the K3S is increased from 12 to 13 watts, but it quickly rebounds to it's normal output a few seconds later. __ 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] Unable to send WAV file to K2
Mark, YES, that is what I meant. The fingers did not catch up with the mind - a sign of aging! 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 5:34 PM, Mark Musick wrote: Mike, Don's message said: A BTW note - I hope you are plugging that USB to serial adapter directly into the K2 AUX IO connector. I think he meant to say "I hope you are NOT plugging that USB to serial adapter directly into the K2 AUX IO connector." 73, Mark, WB9CIF -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm Sent: Wednesday, March 4, 2020 21:57 To: Mike Kopacki Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Unable to send WAV file to K2 Mike, All that is fine for CW, but for playing WAV files (I assume audio for SSB mode), you have to have a connection from the computer soundcard to the K2 Microphone input. There is no other way to get SSB audio into the K2. OTOH, if the WAV file is for keying the Winkeyer in CW mode, that would be a question to be directed at K1EL - I did not think you could create CW from a WAV file, but if possible it would have to be done in the WinKeyer - it is not a K2 consideration. A BTW note - I hope you are plugging that USB to serial adapter directly into the K2 AUX IO connector. You MUST use the special cable for the K2 to PC. Plugging a full RS232 port into the K2 AUX IO connector may cause damage to the K2 and will cause strange behaviors. Only 3 pins of the K2 connector are RS-232. The remaining ones are internal K2 signal lines to be used for communicating with external Elecraft gear such as the transverters, the KAT100, and KRC2. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 4:34 PM, Mike Kopacki wrote: The WinKeyer is connected to the USB port on the tablet. There is a USB to serial cable from the WinKeyer to K2. The cable was from K1EL who makes the WinKeyer. Thanks, Mike On Mar 4, 2020, at 3:18 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Mike, Please describe your method of connecting the computer soundcard output to the K2 Microphone jack. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 3:05 PM, NJMike wrote: I am using a Windows 10 tablet, connected to a WinKeyer USB box and then to an Elecraft K2. I use N1MM+ Logger for my logging software. This setup is working fine on CW. Now I am trying to play a WAV file assigned to a function key in N1MM. It plays fine on the tablet but is not being sent to the K2. I have exhausted all user manuals and not come up with the answer. Any help will be appreciated! __ 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 markmus...@outlook.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] Unable to send WAV file to K2
Mike, All that is fine for CW, but for playing WAV files (I assume audio for SSB mode), you have to have a connection from the computer soundcard to the K2 Microphone input. There is no other way to get SSB audio into the K2. OTOH, if the WAV file is for keying the Winkeyer in CW mode, that would be a question to be directed at K1EL - I did not think you could create CW from a WAV file, but if possible it would have to be done in the WinKeyer - it is not a K2 consideration. A BTW note - I hope you are plugging that USB to serial adapter directly into the K2 AUX IO connector. You MUST use the special cable for the K2 to PC. Plugging a full RS232 port into the K2 AUX IO connector may cause damage to the K2 and will cause strange behaviors. Only 3 pins of the K2 connector are RS-232. The remaining ones are internal K2 signal lines to be used for communicating with external Elecraft gear such as the transverters, the KAT100, and KRC2. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 4:34 PM, Mike Kopacki wrote: The WinKeyer is connected to the USB port on the tablet. There is a USB to serial cable from the WinKeyer to K2. The cable was from K1EL who makes the WinKeyer. Thanks, Mike On Mar 4, 2020, at 3:18 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Mike, Please describe your method of connecting the computer soundcard output to the K2 Microphone jack. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 3:05 PM, NJMike wrote: I am using a Windows 10 tablet, connected to a WinKeyer USB box and then to an Elecraft K2. I use N1MM+ Logger for my logging software. This setup is working fine on CW. Now I am trying to play a WAV file assigned to a function key in N1MM. It plays fine on the tablet but is not being sent to the K2. I have exhausted all user manuals and not come up with the answer. Any help will be appreciated! __ 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] Unable to send WAV file to K2
Mike, Please describe your method of connecting the computer soundcard output to the K2 Microphone jack. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 3:05 PM, NJMike wrote: I am using a Windows 10 tablet, connected to a WinKeyer USB box and then to an Elecraft K2. I use N1MM+ Logger for my logging software. This setup is working fine on CW. Now I am trying to play a WAV file assigned to a function key in N1MM. It plays fine on the tablet but is not being sent to the K2. I have exhausted all user manuals and not come up with the answer. Any help will be appreciated! 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 donw...@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] Unwanted audio
Martin, Just a thought - do you have anything plugged into the LINE IN jack? Or do you have MIC plus LINE set on? Another thought - do you have the FP mic set to turn on the additional mic preamp? 73, Don W3FPR On 3/3/2020 3:31 PM, Martin wrote: Elecrafters, my K3 shows a strange Problem. On USB it transmits a tone at about 2khz above (respectively on LSB about 2khz below) carrierpoint. This happens even with no mic attached. The level of the tone follows the setting of the 2.4khz level of TXEQ. It also follows Mic Gain level. Anyone know what to do? Setup: Dynamic Mic on Frontpanel (or removed, doesn't matter), tap XMIT, listen on sdr-console. __ 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] High Current only on 20 Meters
Lee, That should be fine. Try doing the Transmit Gain Calibration on the K3 and if it persists afterwards, email supp...@elecraft.com. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 1:54 PM, Leroy Buller wrote: Don. It goes to 12.9 volts on 20. On 40 it goes to 13.0. Current on 20 goes to 24 amps then gives me the message. No rig runner. 24 inch #10 wire to the k3 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] High Current only on 20 Meters
Lee, What is the voltage out of your power supply during transmit? View it with the K3 ALT VFO B display. If it is below 12 volts, check your power supply connections. If you are powering the K3 through a RigRunner or other DC distribution system, eliminate it for the K3 and connect directly to the power supply terminals. The K3 will try to keep the power constant, so if the voltage is low, the current must go up. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 1:32 PM, Leroy Buller wrote: I have a K3 that seems to have a problem. I am getting HI CURRENT warning only on 20 meters. The antenna is matched. 80, 40 and 15 do not have the issue. The current meter on the power supply does show quite a bit of current (20+ amps) on 20 meters but when I reduce power it stops giving me the issue on 20 meters. When I reduce power on 20 meters, the high current goes away around 65 watts. Anyone have an idea what is going on? I do appreciated the help __ 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] Unusual Behavior K3S / KPA500 Drive Power Greater Than 12 watts
Tony, Try doing the TX Gain Calibration on the K3S. You only need a dummy load that is flat (1:1 SWR) up through 6 meters along with K3 Utility. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/4/2020 1:48 AM, Tony wrote: All: I've noticed an unusual thing happen with my K3S and KPA500 amplifier while in SSB mode. When I increase the K3S drive beyond 12 watts, the KPA500 power drops-off dramatically. This only happens in SSB mode. __ 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] K3 and JTDX
Paul, I do not have any setup information relevant to the gear you are using, but you must obtain 4 bars solid with the 5th bar flashing on the K3 ALC meter. Failure to achieve that will result in no transmit or erratic power from the K3. I have information on my website to aid you in setting the audio levels to achieve that target. Go to my website www.w3fpr.com and scroll down the left column to the last article and click to open the document. I hope that helps. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/3/2020 12:22 PM, Paul GRANGER wrote: Hi all Maybe this has been asked already, but... I am trying to configure my K3 so it can do FT8 with JTDX. I know that, in the radio tab of JTDX, some people use K3, some people use none. What is/are the advantages/disavanteges of each ? I have a MicroHam USB2 (no soundcard built-in), but I can of course connect my computer directlyy to the K3 with 2 audio cables (both stereo) without going through the MicroHam. So far, I was ble to configure JTDX to receive, but after spending more than 10 hours "playing" with the 10,000 setups involved, I am still unable to transmit. At some stage, I was able to key the KL3 to go TX, BUT no power output at all. __ 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] Comments from Special Forces personnel on KX2 use
Most any wire you put up can be made to radiate. The problem is matching the feedpoint to the feedline. If you want to use coax for the feedline, you must provide a proper matching network at the antenna (balun or otherwise). Open wire line can be used with a matching network in the shack. If you are transmitting at 100 watts (or 10), all that power will go into the radiator and be radiated. If you are concerned about how effective that radiation will be consult the antenna books and look at the elevation and azimuth radiation patterns to obtain your answers. L.B. Cebik (SK) did a lot of antenna radiation models. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/2/2020 2:13 PM, Fred Jensen wrote: Folks these days seem to be looking for the perfect [magic?] antenna and are reluctant to just try a basic "non-buried conductor" unless it comes with the magic guarantee first. I'm somewhat constrained by our HOA's Architectural Review Committee [OK, nothing visible]. My 135' end-fed wire along the wooden fence works surprisingly well at 100 W considering it is just about eye level all the way. As good as 5 over 5 over 5 at 100' on 40? Not quite, but I can make Q's on any open band anytime I want including DXpeditions where I wait a few days until the bruhaha has settled down some. __ 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] Elecraft Digest, Vol 190, Issue 22 Open Office etc
Both Libre Office and Open Office are free complete suites for Word Processing, spreadsheet, presentations, and database uses. What is more, they are multi-platform. Quite comparable to MS Office and have a similar look and feel. They can be set to save in MS Office formats, but those are not the default file types. I use Libre Office for all my documents and spreadsheets as well as exporting as .pdf files. Don't have MS Office on any of my computers, except for the one my wife uses - she won't switch, yet! 73, Don W3FPR On 2/29/2020 3:26 PM, David Gilbert wrote: PDF24 is free, period, and works great. https://en.pdf24.org/ Dave AB7E On 2/29/2020 9:50 AM, Neil Zampella wrote: Jim if all you're using Open/Libre Office for is creating PDFs, you may want to look at the PDF printer driver from Software995.com. Its free __ 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] Strange Behavior on P3
Robin, I certainly have not seen that behavior, but recommend you go over the P3SVGA and P3TXMON option instructions. Are all cables fully plugged in, and are the cables dressed inside like what is shown in the diagrams? You may have to devise some kind of 'clip or support' to keep the cables in place. If I recall, I used a length of wire to wrap around the cables for the P3SVGA to keep them in place. I do not have the P3TXMON option installed. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/28/2020 5:43 PM, W4IEN wrote: My P3 has started to exhibit some strange behavior since I installed the SVGA and TXMon options. Every time I turn the VFO A the P3 acts like it is being overloaded and the display shows interference. I have never noticed this before. Has anyone seen this behavior before? I am running a K3S with the P3. __ 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] Excel Test
If you do not have Microsoft Word, then you should download and install LibreOffice. It is a full Office suite that is quite similar to Microsoft Office. And it is free to use. It will read any file produced by MS Office, and it also exports to .pdf format. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/26/2020 11:31 AM, James Walker wrote: I would say it differently. I would say PDF is where text goes to be read. I decline to download any text file that’s not PDF. Too risky. It's amazing to me how many people will send out a file in a proprietary format like Microsoft Word and expect all the recipients to be able to read it. Jimmy Walker, WA4ILO, Macon, GA __ 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] Excel Test
Yes, but .pdf preserves the author's content and formatting and is viewable by anyone using Adobe Reader (free). LibreOffice will reliably export a .doc or .xml file as a .pdf document. I don't know about Microsoft Office since I don't use it. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/26/2020 11:04 AM, Walter Underwood wrote: I got it from somebody else. Before I heard this, I said that PDF is where text goes to die. wunder K6WRU Walter Underwood CM87wj http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog) __ 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] Found: P3
The SVGA option for the P3 is not a normal computer type VGA card. You need the option designed to use the signals in the P3. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/18/2020 12:54 PM, ae...@carolinaheli.com wrote: Thank you very much! I should have it connected and going before the end of the week. I am wondering if it's a good idea to buy a pre-owned VGA card for the P3, that is of course if I can find one. __ 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] Connecting K3/0 to K3S
Sorry for the finger slip - thanks Ed - the baud rate is 38400. You will not find 28400 listed, so it should be obvious. 73, Don W3FPR --- There is an RS-232 "dongle" that ships with every K3S. It has an RJ-45 plug on one end and an RS-232 DE9 connector on the other end. If you plug it in, change the switch on the KIO3B board (inside the K3S) to RS-232 and change the RS232 menu entry to 28400 baud, you can use that connection just like on the K3 - note that you will also use that same connection for firmware downloads and other K3 Utility operations (i.e. the USB connection will not be usable). 73, Don W3FPR On 2/17/2020 6:05 PM, W4IEN wrote: I have a problem that I am sure some of you have run into. I am trying to use my K3S remotely using a K3/0 with the RemoteRig 1258 MKIIs hardware. I can get everything set up except for the connection from the RS232 to the RS232 on the RemoteRig hardware. The RS232 on the K3S does not have the same type of connector as the RemoteRig hardware. Has anyone gotten around this problem. Any help would be appreciated. Hope I explained my situation well enough so it is understandable. __ 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] Connecting K3/0 to K3S
There is an RS-232 "dongle" that ships with every K3S. It has an RJ-45 plug on one end and an RS-232 DE9 connector on the other end. If you plug it in, change the switch on the KIO3B board (inside the K3S) to RS-232 and change the RS232 menu entry to 28400 baud, you can use that connection just like on the K3 - note that you will also use that same connection for firmware downloads and other K3 Utility operations (i.e. the USB connection will not be usable). 73, Don W3FPR On 2/17/2020 6:05 PM, W4IEN wrote: I have a problem that I am sure some of you have run into. I am trying to use my K3S remotely using a K3/0 with the RemoteRig 1258 MKIIs hardware. I can get everything set up except for the connection from the RS232 to the RS232 on the RemoteRig hardware. The RS232 on the K3S does not have the same type of connector as the RemoteRig hardware. Has anyone gotten around this problem. Any help would be appreciated. Hope I explained my situation well enough so it is understandable. __ 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] When might there be a P3 sale or drop in price
Consider that the P3 also has an IF output, so you can run the P3 along with the LP-Pan, SDRs, etc. For those who want mouse QSY as well as the P3 display, that can be 'the best of both worlds'. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/17/2020 1:24 PM, M. George wrote: Everyone's setup and goals are different, but I can add my perspective on this topic having owned an LP-PAN2 for years. Plus I bought and owned a P3 with the VGA addon for comparison with the way I operate from my home station with my K3S. I also have tried both the RSP1a and the RSPduo with the LP-PAN2. Having spent time and money on all these solutions to compare them, it was a simple decision to return to the LP-PAN2 using the ASUS Xonar U7 to preset the I/Q output of the LP-PAN2 on screen for use on the desktop. Again, everyone has different requirements, so my conclusions won't match with what other ops want from a setup. Here is what I'll discuss. 1. P3, 2. SDRPlay SDR/RSP1/RSpduo etc.. connected to the IF output of the K3/S, 3. LP-PAN2 with an ASUS Xonar U7. The cliff notes version here concludes that for NG7M, option 3 is clearly the hands down winner for performance and desktop software integration. Again, other operators will disagree... I get it, everyone has different needs, expectations, budget and patience required to understand and setup each of these solutions. __ 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] When might there be a P3 sale or drop in price
Rick and all, The P3 can listen to the IF of most any receiver, not just the K3. Its input is tunable from 455kHz up to 21 MHz. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/17/2020 12:18 PM, Rick Bates, NK7I wrote: And don't forget that the P3 is actually an almost complete receiver (minus audio). It just 'happens' to listen to the IF of the K3. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA-500 Switch from STBY to OPER
Bill, No relays in the T/R switching path for the KPA500 - all solid state switching. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/10/2020 6:39 PM, Bill Weaver wrote: If there is a relay in the rx signal path, check the contacts. I had that happen with my Alpha recently. Of all the possibilities that was the easiest thing to fix. Thankfully that was the problem :-). __ 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] K3 - Microphone + PTT Cable
Dick, Yes, it can work, but you will be better served by using the super flexible Heil cable available from Heil Sound and perhaps other sources. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/9/2020 4:20 PM, Dick Dickinson wrote: Can a 2 conductor + shield cable be used on the K3 for Mic + PTT.share the same ground..? __ 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] K3 always 100 W
Pedro, Email support at elecraft.com. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/9/2020 8:53 AM, Pedro, EA4KD wrote: Don; TUN PWR it´s on 15 and haven´t ATU. Pedro, EA4KD -Mensaje original- De: Don Wilhelm [mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com] Enviado el: domingo, 09 de febrero de 2020 14:02 Para: Pedro, EA4KD; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Asunto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 always 100 W Pedro, If it is not present with a long keydown in CW, and only in TUNE, the wattmeter is NOT the problem. Check your K3 menu for the setting of TUN PWR. What does ATU TUNE do? 73, Don W3FPR On 2/9/2020 2:56 AM, Pedro, EA4KD wrote: Thank you very much Don; I have been testing and when do a tune the power is always 100 w although I have it set to 15 w in the TUN PWR menu., always 100 w. In normal operation, cw or ssb, I can choose the power between 0 and 100 w without problem. I will start checking the wattmeter. Thank you very much for your help. 73 DX de Pedro, EA4KD -Mensaje original- De: Don Wilhelm [mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com] Enviado el: sábado, 08 de febrero de 2020 20:55 Para: Pedro, EA4KD; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Asunto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 always 100 W Pedro, If it were a K2, I could tell you that the diodes in the wattmeter have been damaged and need to be replaced. Those symptoms are almost the same. The K3 controls power in a similar manner, and I would suggest you start with the wattmeter - I believe it is on the KAT3 board in the K3. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/8/2020 2:39 PM, Pedro, EA4KD wrote: >From yesterday my k3 always gives 100 w in any band although select any other power from 0 to 100, always 100 w in the external meter. Also the swr display shows "- -" and power 0 in any case. __ 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] K3 always 100 W
Pedro, If it is not present with a long keydown in CW, and only in TUNE, the wattmeter is NOT the problem. Check your K3 menu for the setting of TUN PWR. What does ATU TUNE do? 73, Don W3FPR On 2/9/2020 2:56 AM, Pedro, EA4KD wrote: Thank you very much Don; I have been testing and when do a tune the power is always 100 w although I have it set to 15 w in the TUN PWR menu., always 100 w. In normal operation, cw or ssb, I can choose the power between 0 and 100 w without problem. I will start checking the wattmeter. Thank you very much for your help. 73 DX de Pedro, EA4KD -Mensaje original- De: Don Wilhelm [mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com] Enviado el: sábado, 08 de febrero de 2020 20:55 Para: Pedro, EA4KD; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Asunto: Re: [Elecraft] K3 always 100 W Pedro, If it were a K2, I could tell you that the diodes in the wattmeter have been damaged and need to be replaced. Those symptoms are almost the same. The K3 controls power in a similar manner, and I would suggest you start with the wattmeter - I believe it is on the KAT3 board in the K3. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/8/2020 2:39 PM, Pedro, EA4KD wrote: >From yesterday my k3 always gives 100 w in any band although select any other power from 0 to 100, always 100 w in the external meter. Also the swr display shows "- -" and power 0 in any case. __ 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] K3 always 100 W
Pedro, If it were a K2, I could tell you that the diodes in the wattmeter have been damaged and need to be replaced. Those symptoms are almost the same. The K3 controls power in a similar manner, and I would suggest you start with the wattmeter - I believe it is on the KAT3 board in the K3. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/8/2020 2:39 PM, Pedro, EA4KD wrote: From yesterday my k3 always gives 100 w in any band although select any other power from 0 to 100, always 100 w in the external meter. Also the swr display shows "- -" and power 0 in any case. __ 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] Adding amplifier PTT out to K2
Bruce, As original as it gets is Tom's own documentation. BTW, the board header goes in K2 RF Board J13 which has power for the circuit as well as the 8R signal. Solder the header into J13 and mount the output javk on the rear panel - populate the board and plug it in. Go to Tom's website preserved at http://www.mmccs.com/mmarc/n0ss/. Scroll down to Elecraft K2 - Related Files. On that page you will find the K2 (BASIC) External T-R Relay Driver. Click on that link to open the .pdf document. The parts list Mouser numbers may have changed, but otherwise the parts list is complete. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/7/2020 4:18 PM, K1FFX wrote: I contacted FAR Circuits about the N0SS Amp Keying Circuit, and heard right back from Fred. He can, in fact, supply that PCB (as well as, he informed me, a PCB for the K2 fixed audio output mod). I'll be ordering the N0SS board when I get back North next month. Is there an "original" document that went along with the N0SS circuit, which might suggest where/how to mount the board, and where to pick up the K2's 8R signal? __ 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] QRO - KPA500 Failure
John, You are correct. I am seeing a lot of confusion and erroneous conclusions based on the terms 'efficiency', 'dissipation' coupled with 'power output'. As an example, consider that a PA running at 50% efficient at 500 watts will dissipate 500 watts of heat and 500 watts of power out. Input DC power will be 1000 watts. Now back the power down to 250 watts - yes, the efficiency will be less, say 33%. That is 250 watts of power output, but 67% of the total power into the amp would be lost as heat - 417 watts of heat. Input power is less too at 667 watts. That drop in efficiency at lower than max design power is true for any amp designed for their maximum rated power output (as most are). The only ones who should be concerned are those who are monitoring their draw from the AC line and their resulting utility bill. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/7/2020 10:16 AM, j...@kk9a.com wrote: There may be reasons for running at less than the amplifier max such as the US 200 watt 30m band limitation. I have no RF engineering knowledge but after looking at your data I see less heat with lower output wattage which seems to me like it would be less stress on finals. __ 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 60 Meter Channels?
Ken, Download the K2 manual (unless you have a recent printed copy) and look at Channel Hopping on page 103. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/6/2020 3:08 PM, Ken Jones wrote: Hi all, Haven’t used the 60 meter band for over a year in my 2003 K2 and when I went to the band this weekend, it just tunes, no VFO stepping thru the channels anymore? Looked at the 60M board manual but no luck getting it back to normal. Can someone point me in the right direction to get the channelization back? That D19 menu diode option is on. Thanks for any help! Ken, W2GIW __ 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 donw...@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] [K2] Adding amplifier PTT out to K2
Eric, Send an email to FAR Circuits to see if they have the N0SS Amp Keying Circuit for the K2 available. If you must go the perfboard route, it is not difficult if you follow the board layout shown on Tom Hammond's (SK) website http://www.mmccs.com/mmarc/n0ss/index_k2.html. Most of the connections can be made using bent over component leads if you follow Tom's board layout. There are few other viable alternatives to sourcing the output from the 8R signal line. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/4/2020 8:48 PM, eric norris via Elecraft wrote: Dear Gang: I know one could take the PTT signal from the now-discontinued K60XV board, and it is provided on the K2/100 lid, but are there any other option boards that one can use to provide an external PTT signal? If not, is anyone making the N0SS ptt out boards? I'm trying to avoid the perfboard route. __ 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] KPA3 in K3S mostly not working
Carl, Unless you are OK with operating at the 11 watt level and below, I would ask for an RSA and send in the K3S as soon as you get it. Turn around times on repairs are typically 2 to 3 weeks depending on the backlog. The K4 is not likely to ship until late April or early May, and I don't know how far down on the order list you may be - I surmise there are a LOT of pre-orders. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/3/2020 5:34 PM, Carl Yaffey wrote: When I get my K4 (hopefully May . . .), I currently plan to send in my K3S for repair. I have already talked with support. The symptoms are: 1) In transmit mode, no power when raising the power above 11 watts. This happens about 90% of the time. So the 100w amp is not totally gone. 2) In receive mode, sound drops considerably when raising the power above 11 watts. This is, of course, coincident with the 100w amp failing. I haven’t found anything that causes the amp to come and go. Seems random. In can be OK while sending and the suddenly fail. Also, the transmit calibration fails. __ 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] KPA500 defekt, T/R pin diodes, which type, how to change?
Olaf, Your best answer will come from Elecraft support. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/3/2020 4:10 PM, dl7...@darc.de wrote: We have a KPA500 in our station setup of HU1DL. After some days of operation (and changing of bands, filters, antennas), the T/R pin diodes are blown (D8/ D9). __ 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] K3S relay noise when using Rx ANT IN port
But that would preclude allowing receive on the SubRX while transmitting - in other words SOTR operation. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/3/2020 5:58 AM, Dave B via Elecraft wrote: I'm somewhat surprised Elecraft don't just flip that relay into the "protect" position whenever the radio Transmits. Or at least have a menu option for that relay's behaviour, that defaults to the "Safe" situation (RX made "Safe" during TX.) But if you really do need to, able to be set so the RX automatically protects itself when it thinks it is needed, as at present. __ 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] Kx3, wsjtx, broadband noise
Scott, It would appear as though you are receiving noise from somewhere. Your steps have eliminated your house, but your neighbors may be the source. I don't have an easy answer, but I don't think it is in your KX3. To test, does it occur if you connect a dummy load? If not, it is coming in on your antenna. Filters and NR and NB are not likely to tackle it adequately. You will have to locate the source and send a notice to the FCC for action. You can use the KX3 portable with a short antenna to try to localize the source. Sounds like the interference from "grow lights" that have been reported in the past. Are any of your neighbors starting gardening plants or growing pot under UV Grow Lights? 73, Don W3FPR On 2/2/2020 5:13 PM, Tox wrote: Hoping someone has a suggestion for how I can work around some local QRM. I have a kx3 with filters installed I have wsjtx running. I've recently added a px3 to see if it would help provide insight. I find intermittent broadband noise that desenses my receiver on multiple bands. 1) It appears to either be On or Off, no visible fading. (Transitions are <<1 second). Sometimes a little flickering but usually extends for minutes to hours. 2) When on, signals in waterfall completely disappear or are reduced to just a couple nearby (loud) stations 3) when on, it wipes out at least one whole band (usually 20m, sometimes 40m as well). 4) when on, the full 200khz slice in px3 goes green snow 5) still happens if I throw breaker in my subpanel and am running off of batteries 6) with 30 min of fiddling, haven't been able to see it in a kiwisdr node less than a mile away 7) pskreporter still shows me to be getting out (to the extent I can) Broadband, no visible peaks, so not sure I could triangulate it by wardriving with a Kerberos. Any suggestions? __ 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] FT8 Driver Issue
Lee, In addition to the MIC Gain and the WSJT POWER slider (misnamed because it is just another audio level control, you also have to deal with the computer soundcard audio level. It should be set for Line Level instead of speaker if that is possible, and that is one of the 3 audio controls that you have to manipulate. Go to my website www.w3fpr.com and scroll the left column to the last article and click to see the article dealing with this problem. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/2/2020 6:59 PM, Lee Murrah via Elecraft wrote: I am running WSJT-X in FT8 mode on my K3S using the onboard sound card and USB cable and VOX for keying. My computer is a Mac running Catalina. The K3S manual recommends setting the drive at 4 or 5 bars to avoid distortion by the ALC.. When I use the audio output slider set the drive level, the display jumps from no bars to 6 bars, and vice versa, and nothing on between. I have also tried using the MIC level and the POWER slider in FT8 with the same results. The software id decoding fine. Can anyon suggest what the problem might be? __ 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] K3S relay noise when using Rx ANT IN port
Ray, Your transmit signal is getting into your RX antenna with more energy than is safe for the K3S. 10 meters is not much separation unless the antennas are oriented so one is not in the null pattern of the other. Using antennas that are of opposite polarization (such as a horizontal dipole and a vertical) may be OK for a 10 meter separation, maybe not. There are protective devices available that will disconnect the RX antenna when the K3S is transmitting, and use of one of those may be the quickest and easiest solution. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/1/2020 5:21 PM, raycollins wrote: My K3S is configured to use the RX ANT IN port for a separate Rx antenna. However, on SSB transmissions I can hear an internal relay operating in synchronism with peaks in transmit power. I assume this is a relay in the receiver input protection circuit? Is operation of the relay in this manner normal? Apart from finding the noise rather irritating I am concerned about the reliability of the relay when it is called upon to operate so many times during a QSO. The Tx and Rx antennas are about 10 metres apart and I am transmitting 100 Watts. __ 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 Cable Wire size
Dave, The wire is #18 AWG. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/31/2020 7:28 PM, Dave Sublette wrote: What size wire is used in the power cable supplied to the KX3? I see the current rating numbers, but never the actual are size. __ 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] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
Frank, Although several others have had success with VOX, I find the most reliable is to use PTT via CAT command. Set it in the application and you will have no problem. If your problem is related to audio levels, refer to my website www.w3fpr.com. Scroll the left column to the last article and click to open the page. No matter whether you are operating from the transverter mode or the normal antenna, you must have 4 bars solid with the 5th bar flashing on the ALC meter. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/29/2020 9:35 PM, Frank O'Donnell wrote: Bob, First, let me back up and say that I'm operating with the K3S in transverter mode on 630m with an external power amp. I've successfully used CAT control with WSJT-X on a MacBook Pro to tx/rx JT9 and WSPR. My objective now is to use the K3S in VOX mode with a Windows 10 desktop running two instances of WSJT-X, __ 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] Dual Receivers 2 different antennas Diversity receive
Such a relay is a workable solution. BUT be aware that the K3 KEYOUT only provides a ground. The relay coil must be connected to a voltage source. Since you are also using an amplifier on the KEYOUT line, you will have to carefully match the voltage of the relay and its voltage supply with the voltage provided in the amplifier - if you do not, there will be current flow between the amplifier and your relay's power source. That current flow can be prevented by the use of a series diode in each leg of the "Y". If the diodes are used, there is not as great a need for matching the voltages. So things are a bit more involved than just using a "Y" cable. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/28/2020 5:31 PM, Conrad PA5Y wrote: If you want to be absolutely certain you could add an external relay driven from the key output. If you use this port to key you PA then you can just use a Y splitter. There are hundreds of suitable relays on eBay. Configure so that on TX the sub RX is terminated with 50 ohms. Typically relays such as Dow Key 401 series will give well over 100dB isolation on HF through 6m, they say 85dB but it's a lot more on all the ones I have measured. For example https://www.ebay.com/itm/Dow-Key-401-175-RF-Microwave-Switch-15V-SMA-NSN-5985-01-320-1388/143186092545 Regards Conrad PA5Y -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of VernonJ Sent: 28 January 2020 20:28 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Dual Receivers 2 different antennas Diversity receive My K3S has Main and Sub receivers. I would like to use Diversity receive with the Main using the transmit antenna, and my Sub using a small receive loop. Is there sufficient isolation on the Receive Only antenna connection to protect the Sub? Antennas are 60 feet apart, and I intend to run 500 watts at some point. If I need additional isolation and protection, how would I do this? Thanks. -- 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 g0...@g0ruz.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 donw...@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] Dual Receivers 2 different antennas Diversity receive
Vernon, Give it a try, a lot will depend on the relative orientation of the loop and your transmit antenna (in other words, no one can predict for you). If you hear the COR in the subRX begin to click, you will know that there is too much pickup on the RX antenna. There are several protective devices available in the ham marketplace. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/28/2020 2:27 PM, VernonJ wrote: My K3S has Main and Sub receivers. I would like to use Diversity receive with the Main using the transmit antenna, and my Sub using a small receive loop. Is there sufficient isolation on the Receive Only antenna connection to protect the Sub? Antennas are 60 feet apart, and I intend to run 500 watts at some point. If I need additional isolation and protection, how would I do this? Thanks. __ 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] VFO B dead
Gary, You have to remove the front panel assembly. The encoder must be removed from the rear of the Front Panel. It is not difficult, try it. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/27/2020 10:59 AM, Gary K9GS wrote: Thank you Vic and others.It's been a long time since I assembled my K3. I reviewed the assembly documentation last night. I did not remember that the encoders plug into the PCBA. It looks like a pretty straightforward disassembly and reassembly.Vic asked if the encoder could have come unplugged, possibly in shipping when my K3 was back at Elecraft. I'm not sure how that could happen since the encoder is attached to the front panel with a nut. The nut and the VFO knob would have to both be missing for that to happen. I just wonder if since I have to take the whole front panel off to replace, should I just order replacements?Does anyone know if the encoders can be replaced if I remove the knob and nut without taking the front panel off?If I get some time this week I'll open up the K3 and take a look.73,Gary K9GS __ 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] VFO B dead
Gary, If you are not afraid of disassembling your K3, remove the Front Panel assembly and swap the encoder A with encoder B. If the problem follows the encoder, then order a new encoder from Elecraft. If that is not the problem, contact supp...@elecraft.com for additional checks. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/26/2020 5:34 PM, Gary K9GS wrote: I just had my K3 in for service and a checkup. I REALLY hope I can avoid sending it in again. The VFO B knob is completely dead. Turning it does not tune VFO B. Also tried the config screen...same thing.I suspect the encoder is bad but it showed no symptoms prior..otherwise I would have had it changed out when I sent it in.All other front panel functions appear to work.Any ideas?73,Gary K9GS __ 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] anyone recommend where to buy a SERIAL to USB cable fora k3
I can also recommend the Edgeport USB to serial converters. They are designed for commercial use rather than consumer. I have 2 of the 4 port adapters. One for the home station computer and the other for use with the laptop when I am working away from the home station. The latter will serve as a replacement should one fail, but they are sturdy devices and not prone to failure. To run the KX2/KX3/XG3 from a serial port, you can use the KXSER adapter from Elecraft, or build your own from the schematic shown near the end of the XG3 manual. I would rather use the Edgeport instead of a USB hub should you run short on USB ports. My shack desktop computer has 6, 2 of which are taken up by the keyboard and mouse, and 1 for an external USB soundcard. That leaves only 3 for the ham gear, and one of those is for the Edgeport and another the KXUSB for my KX-Line - leaves only one USB port for other uses. My laptop has only 2 USB ports available, so I use the Edgeport-4 to run all the RS-232 devices that will accept that signalling. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/25/2020 8:50 PM, Jim Brown wrote: On 1/25/2020 4:13 PM, Wes wrote: I highly recommend Edgeport USB to serial adapters. YES! These are industrial quality products, come in multiple configurations. I'm using one with two ports in my station, and bought a second one (with more ports) to have as a spare. __ 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] KX3 with KPA100/KAT100
Ed and all, It is more complicated than "build an interface". The KPA100 and KAT100 depend on internal signals in the K2 for proper operation. The first is '12CTRL' which is used to tell the KPA100 that the K2 has 12 volts present. Second is '8R' which tells the KPA100 that the K2 has been put into transmit. I will admit that those 2 above could be 'dummied up' by a 12 volt "ON" switch and 'PTT'. But there are other critical signals that are not possible except with the K2 base. The first of those is the 'AUXBUS' which is necessary for the KPA100 and KAT100 firmware to operate. This 'one wire' signal is the main signal to communicate among the various firmware processors in the K2 system. It includes band data as well as PA temperature, fan state, current indication, fan speed control, control of the KPA100 T/R state, TUNE power and KAT100 tuning control, detection of actual power output over the VRFDET line so the K2 firmware can control the power output. It is also necessary to calculate the SWR as well as measuring the actual power output and feeding that information to the base K2 firmware for drive power control. Those latter signal lines would be quite impossible to drag out of a KX3, yet they are essential to the proper operation of the KPA100/KAT100. If one were to redesign the hardware and firmware of the KPA100 and KAT100, it may be possible to run them as a standalone amplifier and tuner, but given the magnitude of the task, selling the KPA100/KAT100 and using the money to buy a KXPA100 and KXAT100 would be the best way to make a 100 watt system for the KX3. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/25/2020 2:41 PM, Edward R Cole wrote: At first I read KXPA100, not KPA100. Of course the KXPA100 was designed to be a companion to the KX3. I have one and drive it with either my KX3 or K3/10 (10w version of the K3). I suppose one could build an interface from KX3 to KPA100. Basic need would be PTT, RF drive, and Band switching. __ 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] Cleaning old black knobs on K3
Dave, I would suggest removing the knobs and clean them with dish washing liquid, water and an old toothbrush. Dry fully before putting them back on the K3. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/24/2020 10:01 AM, Dave Cole wrote: Any suggestions for the best cleaner for the old black screw locked knobs? __ 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] KX3 with KPA100/KAT100
Kev, Sorry, but that will not work. The KPA100/KAT100 needs internal signals from the K2. Those signals are not available from the KX3. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/23/2020 11:20 PM, Kev Schache wrote: I'm confined to operating from home due to age restraints but I'm also the very proud builder/owner of a K2 and a separate EC2 cased KPA100 and KAT100 - along the lines of W3DVX 'twins'. In addition to that combo, I'm also the proud owner of a KX3 which seems to be developing a yearning for 100W. I'm wondering if anyone has successfully used the KPA100/KAT100 with the KX3 ? Is that practical or is that simply not feasible ?? __ 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] KPA500 on AM...
John, The KPA500 is rated for 500 watts PEP. With AM, that is 250 watts carrier, and 250 watts of sideband energy (125 watts for each sideband). So your "talk power" is 125 watts, compared to 500 watts SSB. Note that is for 10 minutes transmit with a 5 minute receive period. If you are "long winded" and want to exceed that 10 minutes keydown, you should reduce the power. See the specifications. If you want to exceed the specification limits, you do so at your own peril, although the KPA500 has means to protect itself. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/19/2020 12:43 PM, Macy monkeys wrote: One more question then I'll go back into hibernation. What is considered a safe drive level for the KPA500 when operating AM? I haven't tried it yet but I imagine the cooling fan goes into jet takeoff mode. Thanks, John K7FD __ 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] Hard of hearing, almost deaf K3
John, Have you checked the antenna feedline and connectors. Those can often create a "big attenuator". Try the antenna on another receiver if possible. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/21/2020 11:43 AM, John Unger wrote: A few days ago one of my K3's appeared to have suddenly gone almost deaf. Here are some of the symptoms and observations: - Rig's S meter shows very low or no background noise (strong stations can still be heard weakly). - P3 shows __ 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 SSB adapter problems
Chuck, L34 must have been far out to do that. It is connected right where the IF OUT signal is fed to the AGC, so it must have formed a resonance with C179 which increased the input to the AGC and desensed the receiver. Did you use Spectrogram to adjust L34? It is easily done in CW mode - you tune to the "birdie' at 7000kHz. Then simply adjust for the peak that is also consistent with minimum 'grass' outside the filter passband. The slug should end up no more than 1 or 2 turns from the top. You can do it 'like the manual says', but it is easier to see visually. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/14/2020 5:22 PM, myflyertra...@cfl.rr.com wrote: Don, I downloaded the software, and found I could get my SSB OPT1 filter looking great until I turned on the AGC in USB! Well I did solve it. It was a poorly aligned L34 causing the problem. I had read on this list that L34 was very broad and did not do much. Not at all true! Now turning AGC off and on does what you would expect. I am going to work though with the new software to better tweak things! Thanks! Chuck K8LBH On Jan 14, 2020, at 2:52 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Chuck, Your guess that the BFO is positioned inside the filter passbaad is likely correct. Do you have the SSB FL1 filter set to OP1? If not, try that first. Many times the filter on the RF Board (used for more narrow filter settings) becomes VERY wide - much wider than indicated by the K2. It depends on the exact characteristics of the varactors. If you are using the SSB OP1 filter, then check the capacitors around the KSB2 filter crystals for proper values. An improper capacitor will distort the passband shape and can make the passband quite wide. The best way and more certain way to analyze the problem is to look at the K2 audio with an audio spectrum analyzer like Spectrogram running on your computer and band noise fed into the K2 antenna (no signals, just noise) You can download Spectrogram from my website www.w3fpr.com (scroll to near the bottom of the home page to find the local links). If you do not use Windows, there are audio spectrum analyzers for other operating systems. Instructions for setting up Spectrogram 5.17 and using it to align the filters can be found on Tom Hammond N0SS (SK) website preserved at http://www.mmccs.com/mmarc/n0ss/k2_filters_using_gram_v5r17.pdf. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/14/2020 1:22 PM, myflyertra...@cfl.rr.com wrote: Hello, I have been working on a new K2 the last couple of months. SN 7927 Yesterday I finished and installed the KSB2 SSB adapter. I have been mostly listening. All seemed normal with receive on 80 and 40 meters, on LSB. But, as soon as I go to USB on any band below 21 mhz, or LSB 21 and above, the S meter goes to nearly full scale, and the receiver is desensitized. If I turn off the AGC, the receiver seems to work normally receiving both LSB and USB. I have checked the BFO values and used the default value of 4916.3 for USB and 4913.5 for LSB. No setting of the USB BFO seems to solve the issue. I can change the value and drop the S meter with AGC on and hear the Receiver apparently return to normal, but then I can’t tune USB and the number I am using then is close to the LSB value. Why the receiver works normally with AGC off, but not with AGC on on OP1 filter is puzzling to me. Everything is normal on the K2’s internal filters. I assume this has something to do with the crystal filter and BFO frequencies, but no idea where to go. Any ideas would be appreciated. 73 Chuck K8LBH __ 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 donw...@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] K2 SSB adapter problems
Chuck, Your guess that the BFO is positioned inside the filter passbaad is likely correct. Do you have the SSB FL1 filter set to OP1? If not, try that first. Many times the filter on the RF Board (used for more narrow filter settings) becomes VERY wide - much wider than indicated by the K2. It depends on the exact characteristics of the varactors. If you are using the SSB OP1 filter, then check the capacitors around the KSB2 filter crystals for proper values. An improper capacitor will distort the passband shape and can make the passband quite wide. The best way and more certain way to analyze the problem is to look at the K2 audio with an audio spectrum analyzer like Spectrogram running on your computer and band noise fed into the K2 antenna (no signals, just noise) You can download Spectrogram from my website www.w3fpr.com (scroll to near the bottom of the home page to find the local links). If you do not use Windows, there are audio spectrum analyzers for other operating systems. Instructions for setting up Spectrogram 5.17 and using it to align the filters can be found on Tom Hammond N0SS (SK) website preserved at http://www.mmccs.com/mmarc/n0ss/k2_filters_using_gram_v5r17.pdf. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/14/2020 1:22 PM, myflyertra...@cfl.rr.com wrote: Hello, I have been working on a new K2 the last couple of months. SN 7927 Yesterday I finished and installed the KSB2 SSB adapter. I have been mostly listening. All seemed normal with receive on 80 and 40 meters, on LSB. But, as soon as I go to USB on any band below 21 mhz, or LSB 21 and above, the S meter goes to nearly full scale, and the receiver is desensitized. If I turn off the AGC, the receiver seems to work normally receiving both LSB and USB. I have checked the BFO values and used the default value of 4916.3 for USB and 4913.5 for LSB. No setting of the USB BFO seems to solve the issue. I can change the value and drop the S meter with AGC on and hear the Receiver apparently return to normal, but then I can’t tune USB and the number I am using then is close to the LSB value. Why the receiver works normally with AGC off, but not with AGC on on OP1 filter is puzzling to me. Everything is normal on the K2’s internal filters. I assume this has something to do with the crystal filter and BFO frequencies, but no idea where to go. Any ideas would be appreciated. 73 Chuck K8LBH __ 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] Visit to Elecraft HQ worthwhile?
Terry, If you are able, call (or better email) the office a couple days prior to your visit. That way they can be prepared for you and will increase your chances of a complete tour. If you just drop in and they are busy, they will have to be more brief. If you can, make your visit Thursday or Friday. Monday and Tuesday are busiest catching up with weekend emails and voicemail, and I believe Wednesday morning is staff meeting time. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/14/2020 2:00 AM, Terry Brown wrote: I will be driving from OR to So. Cal. in March on Hwy. 1. I see it runs within a stone’s throw of Elecraft’s HQ in Watsonville. For those of you who have been there before, is it a worthwhile stop? I don’t expect to see Eric or Wayne there if I stop, but at a minimum I would like to thank their fine staff for creating what has become an integral part of renewing my love of our great hobby. __ 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] K-POD working intermitterly
John, Do you tend to move the K-Pod frequently? If so, that could be a reason for cable or connector failure. Try holding the cable an inch or so from the connector (do that at each end). Move the cable back and forth a bit - see if that induces the fail/no-fail situation. If so, a cable replacement is in order. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/13/2020 5:00 PM, John Altman wrote: My K-Pod has stopped working ... it works (macros are functional) for a few minutes after K3S turned on and then power light is out and button functions do not work! Turn rig off and back on a few minutes later and it functions, for awhile. I have reloaded full firmware for both K3S and P3 ... no behavioral change. I have disconnected K-Pod cable at both rig and K-Pod, re-connect, no change. Cable is connected in jack under front panel. Otherwise, K3S is fully functional. I am aware the “macros” reside within the K3S. Could this be the cable between the rig and K-POD? Any ideas to remedy this situation will be greatly appreciated. Direct reply to wa4...@arrl.net. Thank you, John WA4AIP K-LINE Station ARRL Charter Life Member __ 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 donw...@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] K 2 setting
Neil, Sorry, but that setting is not saved over a power cycle. It is good to hear the Fixed Audio Output is serving you well. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/12/2020 1:31 PM, Neil Foster wrote: Recently I added to my K 2 the Fixed Audio board now available from Dave W8FGU. It was originally designed by Don Wilhelm W3FPR and it works perfectly. I have noticed that when I have set up the Bar display to show ALC so I can monitor ALC (I monitor RF with an outboard meter) that when I shut down and later come back the setting does not stay at ALC but reverts to RF. Is there a way to have it stay in ALC display? Many thanks Neil N4FN __ 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] [Elecraft-K3] K3s throwing a "HIGH CURR" error after installing K144XV and Reference Phase Lock Option
Clay, Have you measured the voltage displayed by the K3S during transmit? A low voltage is a common cause for Hi Curr. Reduce the voltage drop in the power cord by running directly from the power supply (no DC distribution boxes) and make certain all connections are tight. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/12/2020 6:11 AM, Clay Autery wrote: OK... so NONE of that worked... So, I reinstalled everything and checked it 3 times... Here is something What should the voltage be on Pin #1 of P95 (XV12DC) be with respect to chassis? I am reading 13.75 VDC __ 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] K3 Band Data
Pedro and all, The first K3 had band data outputs that were driven by open drain FETs. That means that the receiving unit had to provide the pullup voltage to operate properly. Since almost no one in the amateur community understood the benefits of using open drain or open collector devices to drive the attached device (which would provide the pullup voltage), that was changed so the K3 provided the pullup voltages early in the life of the K3. If your K3 does not provide voltage on the band data lines, then you can add the resistors to +5 volts if you install the REMIOUPGD resistors to the band data lines. This upgrade kit is no longer available from Elecraft, but the instructions can be found in the archives. If you are also wanting to upgrade your K3 with the USB interface, you can install the KIO3BUKT3 which replaces the REMIOPGT kit and provides pullup resistors on the band data lines. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/11/2020 6:53 PM, Pedro, EA4KD wrote: I am the owner of an old K3 (Nov 2007 # 188) and now I need to use Band Data outputs. As they did not work I have been looking for the problem and found that a long time ago there was a board that sold Elecraft to solve the problem (REMIOUPGD) for K3 before December 2008, but that is no longer available. Someone has available a board of these or information to be able to make this modification and use the Band Data?. __ 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] [K3] Issue with HI CUR on 12m
Bill, Is this into a dummy load (bypass the ATU or tune the ATU into the dummy load). If it is into an antenna, there are a whole lot of guesses about how the antenna behaves with higher power levels than your antenna analyzer shows. So check it with a dummy load to eliminate the possibility that the problem is in the antenna. Put an external wattmeter in line with the dummy load to eliminate questions about the calibration on the K3 wattmeter. If you can measure the actual current drawn, that would also be helpful. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/11/2020 11:18 AM, Bill Coleman wrote: Back in early December, I installed two KSYN3As in my K3 SN 7071. Sometime after that, I noticed that on 12m, I’m seeing a HI CUR indication when I set the power level to more than about 80-85 watts. The K3 will back off on the power level, then slowly ramp back up until it hits HI CUR again. I don’t remember seeing this before. After the KSYNC3A install, I ran the transmit gain calibration at both 5 and 50 watts, as specified in the instructions. Just in case something went awry, I ran it again. I’m still seeing this problem. What causes HI CUR at 85 watts? The K3 ought to be able to produce over 110 watts on 12m. I’m not seeing this issue on other bands. No issues with calibration __ 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] Fw: KX3 with KX3 Companion application
Bill, It depends on the computer and the external soundcard - so the answer is 'maybe'. In general, if there is only one input, and it is configured for MIC, it will be mono. If configured for LINE, it will be stereo. So it depends on the soundcard settings. If there are separate MIC and LINE inputs, check your computer specs. There is no one answer other than "it all depends". My college professor's advice back in 1966 was "Technician/Engineer, know your equipment and its capabilities as well as its limitations" - that still applies today. One cannot speak in generalities about any equipment type unless the specifics are known - study the specifications for the proper answers to your specific equipment. Based on that information, the one answer to your question is "maybe". 73, Don W3FPR On 1/8/2020 8:19 PM, Nr4c wrote: Are computer mic inputs still mostly MONO while the LineIn inputs are usually STEREO? Sent from my iPhone ...nr4c. bill On Jan 8, 2020, at 4:56 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Aubrey, Did you enter the menu and set the RX IQ parameter to ON? If set to OFF (the default) there will be nothing out of the RX IQ jack. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/8/2020 4:28 PM, Aubrey Mason wrote: From: Aubrey Mason Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2020 3:27 PM To: Walter Underwood Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 with KX3 Companion application I need to know the specifics from someone who has already done it.. None of the written materials say what needs to be done and an audio cable between Rec IQ and the mic input of the tablet does nothing. __ 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 n...@widomaker.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] Fw: KX3 with KX3 Companion application
In addition to requiring a stereo input (Mic or Line In), an internal soundcard may not have sufficient bandwidth for a panadapter application, and an external soundcard may be needed. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/8/2020 5:01 PM, Barry wrote: Aubrey, A point that I missed, make sure your mic input is actually stereo and not mono, many are. It must be stereo. 73, Barry K3NDM -- Original Message -- From: "Don Wilhelm" To: "Aubrey Mason" ; "Elecraft Reflector" Sent: 1/8/2020 4:51:04 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Fw: KX3 with KX3 Companion application Aubrey, Did you enter the menu and set the RX IQ parameter to ON? If set to OFF (the default) there will be nothing out of the RX IQ jack. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/8/2020 4:28 PM, Aubrey Mason wrote: From: Aubrey Mason Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2020 3:27 PM To: Walter Underwood Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 with KX3 Companion application I need to know the specifics from someone who has already done it.. None of the written materials say what needs to be done and an audio cable between Rec IQ and the mic input of the tablet does nothing. __ 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 barrylaz...@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] Fw: KX3 with KX3 Companion application
Aubrey, Did you enter the menu and set the RX IQ parameter to ON? If set to OFF (the default) there will be nothing out of the RX IQ jack. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/8/2020 4:28 PM, Aubrey Mason wrote: From: Aubrey Mason Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2020 3:27 PM To: Walter Underwood Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 with KX3 Companion application I need to know the specifics from someone who has already done it.. None of the written materials say what needs to be done and an audio cable between Rec IQ and the mic input of the tablet does nothing. __ 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 Q7 and Q8 Short to Ground
Mark, I trust you are using a DMM and not a VOM or other meter that applies a high voltage for resistance readings - those can destroy solid state devices. The PA transistor collectors are connected directly to the +12 volt power rail, so a short anywhere on that power rail will be indicated as a short on the collectors of Q7 and Q8. Note that this is the first time a resistance reading to the +12v power rail is done. Normally, there is an electrolytic capacitor on that voltage rail which will show a resistance value that starts out rather low (about 500 to 1000 ohms) and will climb with time as the capacitor charges to a higher value. The initial resistance will depend on the voltage your DMM uses for measuring resistance. So if you are seeing a direct short to ground, it is not necessarily a problem with Q7 or Q8. To check the transistors themselves, remove T3 which will remove Q7/Q8 from the +12 volt power rail. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/4/2020 10:39 PM, Mark Yergin wrote: Don - The PA’s have never seen any power nor have I tried to transmit yet. In the morning I’m going to take all the panels and boards off the RF board and see if I still pass all the resistance checks. I don’t understand how I can pass the resistance check and then see this behavior when the boards and panels are installed. Mark W8EWH On Sat, Jan 4, 2020 at 10:28 PM Don Wilhelm <mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com>> wrote: Mark, The most usual cause of a Q7/Q8 short to ground is that the thermal insulators are not installed properly. However, your statement that you see the same with the heatsink off indicates that the Q7 or Q8 transistors have been damaged by a collector to emitter short. If the K2 was subjected to a transmit without the heatsink installed, that could be reason for the demise of Q7/Q8 transistors. Make certain that the PA mounting hardware is installed correctly, especially the shoulder washers. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/4/2020 9:11 PM, Mark Yergin wrote: > I'm in the final stages of my K2 build, but having a problem with Q7 and Q8 > shorting to ground. When I did my Resistance Checks on pg 74, I had 3.66K > ohms to ground at the Q7 collector. So that was fine. But when I put all > the boards and panels on, then attached Q7 and Q8 to the heat sink, I see > about 135 ohms between the Q7 and Q8 collectors and ground. I assume > that's unacceptable. I see the same with the heat sink off. Suggestions? __ 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 Q7 and Q8 Short to Ground
Mark, The most usual cause of a Q7/Q8 short to ground is that the thermal insulators are not installed properly. However, your statement that you see the same with the heatsink off indicates that the Q7 or Q8 transistors have been damaged by a collector to emitter short. If the K2 was subjected to a transmit without the heatsink installed, that could be reason for the demise of Q7/Q8 transistors. Make certain that the PA mounting hardware is installed correctly, especially the shoulder washers. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/4/2020 9:11 PM, Mark Yergin wrote: I'm in the final stages of my K2 build, but having a problem with Q7 and Q8 shorting to ground. When I did my Resistance Checks on pg 74, I had 3.66K ohms to ground at the Q7 collector. So that was fine. But when I put all the boards and panels on, then attached Q7 and Q8 to the heat sink, I see about 135 ohms between the Q7 and Q8 collectors and ground. I assume that's unacceptable. I see the same with the heat sink off. Suggestions? __ 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] K3 problem "ERR DLL"
Rys, The first thing to try are the steps indicated in the K3 manual listing of errors. If those do not help, and this is an older K3, try removing the front panel assembly (the KDVR3 manual page 7 has good instructions for doing that). If the pins on the front panel connector are tin plated, they should be replaced with the gold pins (Elecraft has a kit). In any case, removing the front panel assembly and simply replacing it will wipe oxidation from the pins and can restore proper operation. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/4/2020 2:02 PM, Ryszard Tymkiewicz wrote: I have been using K3 for MANY years and the first time I got a message "ERROR DLL" ..there was a high noise level and I was not able to tune to stations. It was in my second QTH..when I got back home seems everything is OK. I don't know if it is a problem with contacts? If so which ones I should clean? 73 Rys SP5EWY __ 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 parts to have 'on hand' ?
Brian, I believe I can speak with authority having repaired over 1000 K2s in the last 15 years. The one item that fails frequently in the K2 is the headphone jack, so I would advise having a spare on hand. Maybe a set of K2 PA transistors (for the base K2, not the KPA100). If the diodes in the KPA100 or KAT2 are hit by static and the power control goes to maximum, the base K2 PA transistors will fail if that condition is not recognized and operation is not stopped until the condition is corrected. If the K2 is old, yes the AF Gain and other potentiometers can become 'scratchy', and since they are sealed, there is no other cure but replacement. If the K2 serial number is less than 3000, make sure the Alternate AF Gain Wiring Mod has been installed (and replace the AF Gain pot at the same time). A few 1N5711 diodes can be handy especially if you are not diligent about disconnecting the antenna when not in use and static from the antenna feedline takes out the diodes in the wattmeter (KPA100, KAT2 or KAT100). For those who do disconnect the feedline(s), be certain to short between the feedline center conductor and the shell to discharge any accumulated static charge before connecting it to the K2 ANT connector. Other than that list, I can't think of any K2 part that fails frequently. As Murphy says, if you have the part on hand, it will not fail! Other failures involving ICs and transistors are not common. However, if you have an older KPA100 (with red toroid cores at L15 and L16), I advise you to install the KPA100UPKT mod and also the shield kit KPA100SHLDKT. If you do not have the current K2 firmware 2.04 MCU 1.09 IOC, you might want to upgrade it and save the old firmware ICs in case of a catastrophe, but that is not a frequent failure either. Serial numbers below 3000 do require wiring changes for the sidetone source when upgrading to the 2.04 MCU firmware. If the KIO2 or the KPA100 has been installed, those wiring changes have already been installed. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/4/2020 3:25 PM, Brian wrote: I saw a message on 'another list' the other day which was a reply to someone who was thinking about getting a K2 kit while they could. The reply said... "inferior parts.. get spare variable resistors etc." I am assuming he means potentiometers... Anyhow, I'd not seen or heard much about this 'you gotta replace this stuff in a year' kind of view. Since I DO have a couple K2 rigs... would I be advised to get a few critical parts to take them into the next decade or two? They probably have more than a decade on them already. I must admit that in the VERY early days I asked Eric how long we might expect the microprocessors to last? Meh, never been an issue nor has anything else in them, for me at least, luckily perhaps. Or the norm I realise nothing 'lasts forever' but since almost every thing I have is getting on... and some are pushing MY age from late 50's and early 60's circa some things can last a long time. In any case, any wisdom on what to get on the shelf and have at hand while it is possible?... or don't worry and if the time comes just say a fond farewell? Or will I not care if and when a K4 finally landed here sometime (not thinking about thatyet). Having Winter fun on CW here...hope you are too. Brian VE3VAW __ 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] KAT100 General Failure
Jonathan, That is a great discovery. Yes, if U5 was getting hot it would be dragging down the 5 volt supply and causing U1 to not function. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/4/2020 12:18 PM, Jonathan Taylor, K1RFD wrote: Don, Z1 is resonating away, but in the course of verifying that, I noticed that the U5 op-amp was getting hot to the touch. I replaced it, and now all is working normally. Perhaps it was loading down the 5V supply excessively. I'm guessing that U5 made the ultimate sacrifice in the same incident that zapped D1 and D2 some years ago. Apparently this has happened before, because I see that I had installed an 8-pin DIP socket for it :) Thanks again for your help! 73 Jonathan K1RFD __ 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] KAT100 General Failure
Jonathan, Yes, replacing KAT100 U1 would be the prudent first step. But if you can, first determine if the resonator Z1 is providing clock pulses to U1 pins 13 and 14. Without those clock pulses, U1 will not be functional. If you have a local ham who also has a KAT100, see if you can swap U1 from his KAT100 to see if U1 is the problem in yours. If you do not have a local who is willing to swap, then your best bet is to order both the firmware and the resonator from Elecraft. OTOH, if you have a 4 MHz resonator on hand, try replacing Z1 first to see if it comes back to life. The resonator is inexpensive, but the firmware IC is costly. When the firmware is working, it will be recognized by the K2, regardless of any other problems that may be present with the KAT100 operation. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/4/2020 10:49 AM, Jonathan Taylor, K1RFD wrote: Thanks Don. I had the same thought about U1, but unfortunately the symptoms remain after re-seating it a couple of times. Regarding AUXBUS, I believe continuity is good, since a logic probe on the KAT100 side shows activity when certain K2 controls are manipulated such as Power, Tune, and Band. It is "high" at all other times. I checked this all the way to pin 40 of U1. Should I conclude that the next step would be to replace U1? __ 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] KAT100 General Failure
Johnathan, Since the KAT100 is not recognized in the K2 menu, you either have a problem with the KAT100 firmware, but do check the cable for continuity of the AUXBUS signal that is used to communicate among the various pieces of firmware ICs throughout the K2 system. Since the KAT100 has not been in service for a while, it may be that there is oxidation on the KAT100 firmware IC pins. Removing and reinserting the firmware IC may bring it back to life by wiping away any oxidation on the pins. As for the LEDs, that is also controlled by the firmware IC, so fix the firmware problem first, and then you can find any problems that remain. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/3/2020 11:13 PM, Jonathan Taylor, K1RFD wrote: I am testing my KAT100, which had been sitting idle for a number of years. It is connected to the K2/100 via the DB9 cable as described in the KAT100 manual. The two are interconnected with a coax cable and Ant1 is connected to a dummy load. 1. Apply power to KAT100. 2. Turn on K2/100. 3. Almost immediately, all LEDs on the SWR bar graph illuminate, the S-meter bar graph on the K2 goes full scale, and both remain in this state. The receiver is silent. (There is no indication of any output power, as if it were transmitting.) Pressing the ANT1-2 button on the K2 produces the "not inst" message. Turning off the K2 power, all LEDs on the KAT100 remain illuminated. With KAT100 powered off, K2 functions normally. I have verified the wiring of the DB-9 cable. What's the next best thing to check? Thanks __ 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 donw...@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] KPA100 Hi Cur
Johnathan and all, Actually it is not negative feedback for power control, but it is a closed circuit control loop providing positive control of the power level. The actual power is measured at the KPA100 output and the result is sent to the MCU (via the VRFDET signal line) where it is compared with the requested power setting. The result of that comparison is used to control the level of BFO injection in order to regulate the power output. When the KPA100 wattmeter diodes are faulty, the MCU thinks there is low or no power output, and ramps up the drive to maximum. The result is uncontrolled maximum power output. If operated in that condition for some time, the base K2 PA transistors will be stressed and will eventually fail. That condition also causes distortion, especially noted in SSB transmissions, but also increased IMD on the transmitted signal because the base K2 PA transistors are no longer being operated in a linear fashion. With the KPA100 in the circuit, the KAT100 power sensing is not used, and the KAT100 wattmeter is used only to light the SWR indicators. The KAT100 wattmeter is used if the KPA100 is not present. The KAT2 wattmeter is used if neither the KPA100 or KAT100 wattmeters are not present. In the basic K2 (without the KAT2 or KPA100 or KAT100), there is an RF Detector to measure the power output, but that detector is dependent on the load - a 50 ohm resistivity load is assumed by the MCU calculation of power so it will not be correct if the load is other than 50 ohms non-reactive. So that is the story of how the K2 controls the power output. The K1 and K3/K3S use a similar system. As far as I know, this system of power control is only used by some commercial transceivers and most other amateur transceivers simply let the operator control the drive level or provide only a fixed drive level. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/3/2020 10:15 PM, Jonathan Taylor, K1RFD wrote: Don, Thanks for the tip -- that was exactly it. I checked and replaced D16 and D17 and all is well now. (Both were showing the same voltage drop in both directions.) I gather from your description that the built-in wattmeter forms a negative feedback loop with the power adjustment. My diodes and I are definitely static-challenged -- I have had a similar problem at least twice in the KAT100 despite my best efforts to remember to disconnect the antenna after operating. __ 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] KPA100 Hi Cur
Jonathan, The normal cause of that HiCur message is a failure in the wattmeter of the KPA100. Re-alignment will not help. To test for that possibility set the power knob for about 50 watts, connect an external wattmeter and a dummy load. Then go Keydown and see what the actual power output is. If it is in excess of 100 watts, then that is proof that the KPA100 wattmeter has a problem. The most common cause is that the diodes D16 and D17 have been damaged by static from the feedline, so replacing D16 and D17 is the first step in attempting to correct the problem. Check again for actual power output with the power set for 50 watts after replacing those diodes. If you still have a problem after replacing those diodes, I can help with further troubleshooting. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/3/2020 9:15 AM, Jonathan Taylor, K1RFD wrote: K2 #2462 I just upgraded the KPA100 from Rev A to Rev D, and installed the upgraded shield, under the philosophy of "better late than never" :) I am noticing two problems, when connected to a 50-ohm dummy load: 1) In TUNE, the display briefly shows "Hi Cur", followed by a strange power/SWR indication such as "7 5.0-1" 2) At any setting above 10W, the Power knob seems to have no effect -- the wattmeter always reads approximately 100W output. This is true both in TUNE and in CW. The actual power output appears to be about 100W, when measured with an external wattmeter (although a bit low on 10M). __ 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] KTCX03-1 txco installation
The black foam is only for protecting the pins during shipping - it is NOT the insulator that you want. Look for a thin flat rectangular piece of plastic - that is the insulator that you want. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/2/2020 2:18 PM, Don Sayler wrote: Hi. I'm installing the 1ppm txco in my K3S. I'm not sure I understand this part of the instructions: "Place the rectangular insulator over the TCXO leads so it covers the bottom of the oscillator module." Does this mean that the black foam insulator goes between the TCXO and the KREF3 board? Does the insulator go such that it is 'parallel' to the TCXO, or at a right angle so the insulator sticks out a little on the sides? Do the TCXO leads poke through the insulator? I read the instructions before I ordered the part, and I thought that it would become clear once I had the unit in my hands. __ 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] Time Date Update
K3 Utility should not be used through an intervening virtual port. Instead close the virtual port and connect using the real COM port. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/1/2020 11:19 AM, Larry (K8UT) wrote: Is there any way to open the com port to the radio at a specific baud rate, rather than the utility's baud rate trolling method? Trolling for port speed fails when using an intervening virtual port device. __ 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] KX3 Utility Terminal window for CW
Ingo and all, The characters entered with the keyboard will be perfectly formed, If entered via paddles, bug ot hand key, they may not be perfectly formed and may not be decoded properly. This is a tool that can be used to practice your sending. 73 and HNY, Don W3FPR On 12/31/2019 7:48 PM, Ingo Meyer, DK3RED wrote: Hello David, I'm enjoying and getting a lot out of our CW discussion. I've tried to use the KX3 uUtility for practice sending CW. p. 60 of Fred Cady's big, excellent Elecraft KX-Line book says I shouldbe able to use the Terminal window of the Utility to display the text of the CW I'm sending, but I've never been able to get it to work. __ 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] CW skimmer
Morgan, The K4 (any version) will not run software apps like Skimmer, you will need to run that on your shack computer. While the K4 does contain a processor and a version of an operating system, it is used for dedicated K4 functions. I would compare it to my fileserver box which runs on a Linux version. I can access it via a browser for setup operations, but I cannot load and run any other applications on it, it is dedicated to performing its fileserver tasks. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/29/2019 10:33 AM, Morgan Bailey wrote: Is one able to run CW skimmer on a K4. If so what model is best suited for this the K4 or K4d? Or should i use an RSP2 with out board computer dedicated to doing skimmer with the skimmer software? __ 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] K3 - Power cable voltage drop
As Bob has pointed out, power drop is not the factor in the voltage to
an Elecraft transceiver.
No matter what the supply voltage may be, the K2/K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 will
attempt to produce the output power requested by the power knob setting.
Those transceivers actually measure the output power rather than the
drive level as is done by many other transceivers.
The problem is that the transmit IMD increases as the voltage drops, so
running with a higher voltage results in a cleaner signal on the air.
Of course, if you are an "all knobs right" operator, you may notice a
bit of a drop in the maximum power available on some bands. Instead of
114 watts, you may get only 95 or 100 watts, but that is extreme.
I recommend that you do not set the power knob above 100 watts in any
case. Use the maximum setting only for testing into a dummy load.
The difference between 114 watts and 100 watts is only 0.57 dB and will
not be noticed on the far end of the transmission.
73,
Don W3FPR
On 12/28/2019 5:32 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:
It is not quite that simple. Power drop is not really a factor.
The operating range of the radio, from specifications, is 11 volts
minimum to 15 volts maximum. Thus with a 4 volt operating range, a 1
volt drop represents a 25% change. Within this range of 11 to 15 volts
the radio will attempt to deliver 100 watts by demanding the required
amount of current from the power supply. Thus the three resistances in
series example, as I stated earlier, with the middle one {radio} being a
variable value.
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 - Power cable voltage drop
Better precision than a battery can be found by using a precision voltage regulator. Take a look at the Precision Voltage Source on my website www.w3fpr.com. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/27/2019 5:53 PM, Bill Frantz wrote: A simple reality test for a volt meter is to measure a fresh battery. Zinc/carbon or Alkaline should show about 1.56 volts. (I learned this test from the bias setting instructions for a Dynakit Stereo 70 amplifier. They built the amp so the test point read 1.56 volts when the bias is correctly set and suggested calibrating your meter with a battery. In that era, the zinc/carbon battery was what ran almost all of the flashlights (torches for for English speakers) in the world. 73 Bill AE6JV On 12/23/19 at 11:30 PM, rmcg...@blomand.net (Bob McGraw K4TAX) wrote: A good, known accurate DVM is an asset to any station. Use it to determine if the others are accurate. There are several good brands available. A DVM that is not accurate is worse than no DVM at all. My choice of many years ago is my Fluke 77. After I tapped it with too much voltage, I sent it to Fluke for repair and calibration. I am confident when I make a measurement it is accurate without question. - Bill Frantz | The first thing you need when | Periwinkle (408)356-8506 | using a perimeter defense is a | 16345 Englewood Ave www.pwpconsult.com | perimeter. | Los Gatos, CA 95032 __ 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 donw...@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] K3 Key Out Jack Not Working
Pete, Check the Keyout jack with your ohmmeter. One lead to the center conductor and the other to the shell. During receive, it should read infinite resistance, and when you go to transmit, the resistance should go to near zero. Do you have anything else connected to the KEYOUT jack (an amplifier perhaps)? If so, you will have to use isolating diodes for the amp and your relay for the antenna. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/27/2019 6:12 PM, N4ZR wrote: I'm trying to set things up so that I can disconnect my 160M transmit antenna whenever I'm receiving, to prevent noise coupling into my RX antenna. My thought is to use the Key Out jack on the K3 to control DC to a relay at the base of the antenna, floating the base of the inverted L unless PTT is asserted. The lashup is complete, and works when I short the phono plug manually, but not when I plug it into the KEY OUT jack and energize PTT. I'm hoping it's just a menu issue, but my manual doesn't show any menu options affecting the Key Out Jack. I have a KPA-1500, and Low Power Key Out via the ACConnector works fine for controlling the amplifier, so I assume the basic functionality is OK. Any advice? I'd really love to get it going for the Stew tomorrow! __ 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] Can I use an XV144 Transverter with my KX2?
Thorsten, The XV144 will work with the KX2 - it needs only the KEYOUT signal from Ring 2 of the ACC jack (or the the RCA jack on the KX2 to KXPA100) and coax from the KX2 ANT jack. Set the XV144 up as shown for a Non-Elecraft transverter with a single coax input as shown in the XV144 Owners manual. 73 and HNY, Don W3FPR On 12/26/2019 12:05 PM, Thorsten Fricke wrote: Merry Christmas everyone, hope you have received some nice presents ;-) Maybe a silly question, but I didn't find anything in the manual and would like to be on the safe side. I may be able to purchase a used XV144 Transverter and would be interested in using it with my KX2 (only in my shack at home). There needs to be some dip switch settings done before using the Transverter, but as the manual is only mentioning the K2 and K3, I am not sure on whether using K3 settings are appropriate or whether I need to use another setting (and which one). __ 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] Using KAT-500 without BAND Information
Tom, If by "hit the TUNE button", you are referring to the TUNE button on the KPA500, those results are completely understandable. Changing bands on your transceiver is not communicated to the KAT500 yet - (it will only be communicated when you provide RF to the KAT500). So the KAT500 will not switch bands and will attempt to tune on the wrong antenna initially. Once the KAT500 senses RF, it will know that the band is not correct and will switch to the proper antenna for the band in use. In your second scenerio, you are providing RF to the KAT500 first and it will behave properly, so use that sequence. You should not have any problems with the KPA500 if you have the keying cable run correctly - from the transceiver to the KAT500 and then from the KAT500 to the KPA500. The KAT500 interrupts the keying line to the KPA500 so the tuning is done only with the exciter power level. 73 and HNY, Don W3FPR On 12/26/2019 9:39 AM, Tom KG3V wrote: I am using a KAT-500 Tuner with an ICOM IC-7600. I am not providing BAND data, which is in line with recommendations for connecting this radio in the Elecraft manuals. The documents tell me that RF Frequency-sensing overrides all other information. I have two antennas enabled. ANT 1 is a vertical for 10-40 meters. ANT 2 is an 80 meter dipole. I only ENABLE ANT 2 for 80 meters and only ENABLE ANT 1 for all other Bands, in the KAT Config. If I change Bands and hit the Tune button, KAT-500 will not change to the correct antenna Instead, it tries to Tune with the wrong antenna. The second time I hit TUNE, it will go to the correct antenna. If instead, I change Bands and hit the Key, the correct antenna is selected. That is fine on CW, but not great for other Modes. Is this a bug? I don't see how this could be desirable. I think this would be especially bad if I have the KPA-500 powered-ON. __ 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 Alignment & Test Part II
Neil, Your readings on the PLL range test show that Q19 is marginal. Q19 is not oscillating properly at the high end of the PLL range. The first thing to try is a small capacitor (12 to 15pF) from the source of Q19 to ground. You can easily mount the capacitor between pins 1 and 12 of U4. You can use one of the capacitors from the K2 kit and request a replacement from supp...@elecraft.com If that does not allow proper frequencies for the PLL Range Test, then get a replacement Q19 from pa...@elecraft.com. Merry Christmas everyone. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/24/2019 6:19 PM, Neil Zampella wrote: Hi, Started to do the Align/Test Pt II, and properly saw the correct frequency of 12090 +/- 30 kHz. Tried the next part to adjust the Reference Oscillator using my other K2 as the receiver and was able to hear the oscillator at 3999, but C22 would not adjust to a zero-beat. OK ... so it was close for the time being, so I figured I'd use my KX3 to verify it later. Moved on to the range test. The Band- and Band+ buttons did not affect the display. Dug into the list archives, and saw a number of messages from Don to check the solder joints, alignment, and type of D16, D17, R19, and L31. I realized that somehow I missed installing R19. So I installed the resistor, then restarted the alignment. This time when I switched to CAL FCTR, the rig did not display the expected frequency of 12090, but a frequency of 3560 or so, flickering between readings. However, when I pressed the Band- button, it changed to a steady 12084, but when the Band+ was pressed, back to the 3560 flickering. __ 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] K3 - Power cable voltage drop
That would be a neat thing to do, but DO NOT do that on a power supply that is connected to anything other than the rig you are sensing from. The voltage on other devices connected to the power supply will increase when you transmit on the rig to which the sense wires are connected. Use a separate power supply for accessories. If you need to use the same supply, you can adjust the voltage upward - the SS30 sold by Elecraft already has an output voltage of 14.1 volts. Still use a separate power cable to the transceiver and another cable to any distribution box that you use for accessories for best results (lowest voltage drop when transmitting). 73, Don W3FPR On 12/24/2019 4:23 PM, K4HYJ via Elecraft wrote: I do use voltage sensing at the rear of the radio. Astron supplies can be modified easily to do this - they already have sense wires tied to the voltage output terminals. Basically you disconnect them there and run leads (keep em short) to the radio. On transmit, my K3s drops less than 1/10 a volt. There are a few write ups floating around on how to do this. I installed a switch (make before break type) on my RS-50M so I can return to "normal" sensing. ***WARNING*** If the external sense wires are not connected to anything the crowbar circuit will fire!!! __ 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] K3/0 Mini
All 15 pin Y cables are not the same. You need to have all 15 pins connected from end to end. VGA cables will NOT work. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/24/2019 9:22 AM, Jim Rhodes wrote: The ACC cable can be connected through a simple Y cable (I think I bought mine from Elecraft) so that the remoterig box can be left connected all the time. Or you can buy a YBox, or build your own like I did before they were available. As for the PTT, I put together a box with 6 parallel RCA jacks for PTT on one side and 6 more on the other side for KEYOUT. (I have amps for the 2 meter and 70 cm transverters.) The only other connection I need to worry about is the serial cable. I updated the i/o boards to the new one with the USB connection so that I can leave both the serial and USB cables connected at all times. So no cable switching when I want to go remote. I live in an apartment building, so my KPA500 is packed away in a box for the time being. __ 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] Reaching Across the Chronological Divide
I think we need to be focusing on the personal aspect of one on one communications with someone who we have never met - without the need for the internet, Facebook or any other internet app. It is a thrill to me to be able to have a conversation with someone new via ham radio. Of course, even that element is fading out in ham radio with the emphasis on quick DX contacts or contest points. Ragchewing with someone new to get to know something about them personally or their location is what gives me the thrill of ham radio. So sad to see that element being diminished. Bring ragchewing back, and I am not talking about the nets on 80 and 40 meters, it is reaching out to someone new and telling a bit about ourselves and getting the same in return. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/22/2019 11:17 PM, David Gilbert wrote: I think we already discussed that aspect, and the point is that young people with a technological inclination are far more likely to be interested in software, or robotics, or biomedical ... stuff that has more relevance to advancing the world and actually leading to a job. It might be a challenge to bounce a signal of the ionosphere but people were doing that 100 years ago. 73, Dave AB7E On 12/22/2019 6:52 PM, Robert G Strickland via Elecraft wrote: There is a constant refrain about "communicating with far away places." No doubt that has been one attraction of our hobby. For myself, I was never particularly interested in "communicating." For me it was mastery of a technical environment. Communicating was just the proof that the environment had been mastered. Another way of saying this -maybe- is technology versus sociology. There are many traditional activities that have been replaced by more modern versions [eg, horses versus cars, walking versus bicycling, bow/arrow versus guns]. Yet, there is still interest in the "old way," because the earlier challenges remain in spite of more modern solutions. Getting a signal from my radio, out into the ether, bouncing it off the ionosphere, and back down on the other side is still a challenge. Satellite links and the internet don't negate the ionospheric challenge. Perhaps engaging prospective hams in the technical challenges of the hobby will brings in those who like such challenges. Communicating may be the benny on the other side of mastery. __ 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] KX2 output power drop
Pierre, That may be normal behavior, the power will drop to 5 watts if either low voltage occurs or if a high PA temperature condition occurs. If you are operating digital modes, I suspect that the high PA temperature is causing the drop in power. Check the BAT MIN setting in the KX2 menu. See page 43 of the manual. The proper setting varies depending on the battery type, and the default is 10 volts. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/22/2019 6:26 PM, VE2PID wrote: Hi folks .. A question about the KX2: I saw this on other posts, and also experienced it in portable operations: ''The KX2 was able to pump out a full 10 watts of power for a little over one hour, then as the voltage dropped, it reduced output to 5 watts.''. So it seems to be normal, but is it documented somewhere in the KX2 specs? (FYI, I use an external rechargeable 12V 3000mAh Lithium ion Battery Pack.) __ 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] K3 - Power cable voltage drop
Tony, While those figures with the 10 gauge wire are good, they would be better if you ran the K3 power directly from the power supply rather than from the power distribution strip. Each connection will have some voltage drop, so in addition to increasing the wiring gauge, reducing the connection points will help just as much. 73 Merry Christmas, or Happy Hanukkah whichever you choose to celebrate. Don W3FPR On 12/22/2019 10:47 AM, N2TK via Elecraft wrote: I have been using an Astron SS-30M power supply for several years to feed two K3's. I use 12ga wire from the power supply to an MFJ-4012 power strip. From the power strip I use 12ga wire to each K3. Total length from power supply to a K3 was 8'. Each K3 is set for 100W on 30M into a dummy load. The K3's were tested one at a time. The power supply voltage went from 14.38 to 14.30 at 100W. Both K3's read the same on the K3's internal voltmeter - 14.1V in receive and 12.7V at 100W setting on the K3's. The P3 read 107W out. Changed the cable to 10ga wire direct from the power supply to each K3. Length of each is 7'. Same test. Power supply voltage was still 14.39/14.30. Voltage on each K3 was now 14.2v. Key down 13.6V. So, 0.6V drop in 7' of 10ga wire. P3 output was now 114W. __ 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] Latest rumors on K4
Steve, Unless the K4 is being done differently than all other Elecraft transceivers, the manual will only be available until after the completion of Field Test. One of the purposes of Field Test is to refine the manual. While the K4 does contain a processor, it is dedicated to the K4 and its functions, so don't expect anything like a PC or other general purpose computer. You will be able to download firmware updates, but I don't know if a separate PC will be required - I expect it will, so don't throw out your shack computer. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/21/2019 12:26 PM, stephen shearer wrote: OK, January is fine as it's only 10+ days away... AND yes, Jan 31st is only 5+ weeks. (Joe, I bet as a kid you had no problem waiting for your gifts at Christmas or other big holidays...) what I am waiting for is the manual. It will/should answer many of my questions. Maybe before the K4 is shipped? Like, with a LAN connection on the K4 and an internal PC (of some sort) will I be able to download updates direct to the K4? or, will I need a separate PC and use the USB port on K4 to do the admin "stuff" ? There are plenty of single board computers that would fit the need, if required. I expect to use a SBC for FT8 and JS8, as it works nice now on my KX3 w/amp (as needed). __ 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 Power Switch modification
Neil, Yes, use that 'obvious fix' and trim the blades from the top of the switch. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/21/2019 8:42 AM, Neil Zampella wrote: Just a heads up: I'm putting together another K2, and planning to build this as a base rig keeping it all low power with the battery option. I got to the part where I'm setting the initial parts on the RF board, then plugging in the front board, and the control board, to the RF board. Discovered a problem with the control board not fitting properly. Apparently the K2 Power Switch on the RF board was not properly modified at Elecraft, or was a 'like replacement'. This switch properly had the leads off the bottom of the switch, but also had six wire connector 'blades' at the top. These blades kept the control board from properly fitting on the RF connectors. The obvious fix is to flush cut the blades off at the bottom of each where they meet the switch case. I don't recall seeing a note about this in the main K2 manual, nor in the latest June 2018 errata sheet. The fix is obvious, but you don't realize its needed until you reach the step where you're putting the three boards together. Hope this helps others before they reach that step. Neil, KN3ILZ __ 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] K3 no display & flashing LEDS
Bob, I have not seen any replies on the reflector, however I would suggest that your first attempt would be to remove the Front Panel assembly and plug it back in. If you have the tinned FP connector pins, plan on replacing them with the gold pins in the near future. The removal and replacement action will remove oxidation from the pin contact points. If you moved the K3 from a conditioned area to a cold transportation vehicle, that could cause problems especially if you have the tinned connector pins. If you have the tin plated pins, contact supp...@elecraft.com and ask for the replacement gold pins. If you have the gold plated pins and the remove/replace action does not fix things, you can try doing an EEINIT and then load a good saved configuration file. If that does not fix it, contact supp...@elecraft.com for additional assistance. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/20/2019 10:23 AM, Bob Towers wrote: This has probably been anwered already, but I haven't (yet) found the answer on the forum. I took my K2 and K3 to the radio club two weeks ago to help illustrate a talk I did on Elecraft. I didn't power either up, but afterwards I powered the K3 up when I got back to the shack and there was no display and the 4 sets of lEDs underneath the display flashed on and off until I powered it off. My K2 was unaffected by its trip to the club, by the way. __ 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] K3 Battery
David and all, The battery in the K3 is ONLY for keeping the Real Time Clock alive, and will last a very long time. The memory does not need a battery. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/19/2019 1:03 PM, David Robertson wrote: There is a battery in the K3. It is a coin cell for keeping memory alive. If the battery gets low the K3 might indicate a low battery. __ 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] THE FUTURE OF OUR HOBBY
Ted and all, I do not think restricting the choices to VHF and UHF gear is going to "save the hobby". There are few inexpensive ventures into HF available today. There are a few inexpensive CW only kits available from QRPme.com, but those are quite limited and are CW only. Oh to have the Dave Benson SWL series back. Those were good kits which could put the new ham on the air with a good receiver, but again CW only. I do not see any equivalent today. The QRPme kits are interesting, but being CW only, they are limited to those willing to learn CW. Even a 'knock-off' of the K1 is CW only. For potentially new hams, we hams need to have something that is viable for HF and not expensive. Remember the high schooler and the recent college graduate who does not a lot of extra money. I do not see many choices for them other than the inexpensive VHF/UHF FM transceivers, which work fine with repeaters, but do nothing for the HF spectrum. I built my first transmitter of salvaged TV parts at a very, very low cost, but that was back in the late 1950's when such parts were available many for the asking at the local TV repair shop. A used HF transceiver may the only current logical choice. Elecraft has championed the high performance, high end market, and has done well at it, but that performance comes at a price. Few beginners in ham radio can afford a K3S let alone a KX2, so for beginners, they are "left in the lurch" with choices mainly in the used gear market. Nostalgia for 'what was' is interesting, but does nothing for the newcomers to HF with limited funds. Even the era of cheap surplus military gear is gone. I used to buy Command set transmitters and receivers for $5 each at the surplus store, and you could salvage parts from them to build transmitters and receivers, but those rigs are collectors items today and are expensive. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/16/2019 4:44 PM, Ted Edwards W3TB wrote: More... Although it has not happened, I have long expected June VHF and Sept VHF to displace Field Day and then get more of those many new Techs active. On Mon, Dec 16, 2019 at 3:42 PM Ted Edwards W3TB wrote: Yet, here is another product idea that is driven by my concern that so many new Techs get an HT and don't develop further into our fine hobby/avocation. A Transceiver more significant than a Chinese cheapie for getting on other modes in the VHF and/or UHF bands. I do wish there were a quality-yet-simple radio for 6m/2m would be so handy to them to discover SSB and Digital work on those bands. CW, too. On Mon, Dec 16, 2019 at 12:52 PM Jim Brown 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] Installing a Sub Receiver
Ted, The new synthesizers give the K3/K3S a vast improvement in transmit phase noise, as well as improving the receive noise floor performance by several dB. Both synthesizers must be the same. I would highly recommend getting another KSYN3A board to use in your main receiver to match the one supplied with your KX3A. If you anticipate using Diversity mode, it is a necessity. If the filters in your KRX3 do not match the ones in your main RF board, then the new synthesizers are a MUST - the new synthesizers can work in diversity mode with unmatched filters, but the old ones cannot. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/16/2019 10:48 AM, Ted Edwards W3TB wrote: I put it off for years getting the Sub-Receiver for my K3. With the change to K4, I got a sub-receiver before they become unavailable. The sub-receiver comes with the KSYN3A synthesizer board --- so it occurs to me to change that board into the primary receiver and use the older one with the sub-receiver. That may make it easier to change out later. I am really so impressed with the K3 receiver after about 6 years that the new synthesizer always seemed pointless -- but now I have one anyway. __ 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] New user - can't see my posts
Mike, Gmail is "doing you a favor" by not showing you the posts that you have sent. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/16/2019 3:05 PM, NJMike wrote: I posted a topic in the K2 section and received replies via email. However, the post does not show in the K2 section...but it must be visible somewhere since I received replies. I am new to this forum so please tell me what I am doing wrong! __ 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: SIGNAL LINK & Windows 10 audio output
Keith, You need to change the default soundcard back to the internal soundcard (or anything other than the Signal Link soundcard). It is not unusual for Windows to assign the latest installed soundcard to be the default. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/14/2019 8:29 PM, Keith N6JPA wrote: I have just purchased a signal link USB device. The problem I am having is that every windows sound is going through the signallink USB to my radio. How do I not let windows sound go through the signal link USB to my radio transmitter? TIA Keith N6JPA __ 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 donw...@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] Start-up message
Eddie, I have not seen an answer on the reflector. Just use K3 Utility and you can Edit the Power On banner easily. Are you certain you have the K3/0? - that has no transmit capability. The K3/0 is a control head for use with a remote station. If that was a typo and you meant the K3/10 or the K3/100, then you are OK and can transmit with it, no problem. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/11/2019 8:34 PM, WIN KS4AA wrote: I haven't seen any instructions on how to change the startup message. I just bought a used K3/0 and would like to change the call to mine. HELP. Eddie KS4AA (1st post) __ 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] Wish List
Jim, Yes, switching between digital and SSB modes on the KX3 is troublesome from the requirements imposed by the single Mic input jack and the single headphone (SPKR) jack. For convience in switching between Data modes and speech modes, you will have to go with the K3 which has independent per mode selections. The KX3 was not designed to have that same capability. With the KX3, some form of external switching would be required to switch from microphone input to your digital inputs. Attenuators in the PC soundcard to KX3 audio input might be requited so you do not have to contend with the differences in audio levels. Such switching was not a part of the KX3 design, and you may wnat to upgrade to a K3 for your station instead of the KX3. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/12/2019 8:02 PM, Jim Jones wrote: Okay, I'm a 2nd owner of a KX3 and I'm still reading and trying To figure out all the commands and menu options. Yikes. Anyway, I run a lot of digital, mainly on Mars circuits. What I'm finding Is that I have to swap plugs for the mic and speaker each time I Have to go to voice and then back again for digital. What would Be nice to add to a wish list is to put a 6-pin mini-din connector On the KX3. This would have a pin for Mic input, Ground, Key line, And a line out audio level fixed level. This would allow the end user to take his computer/KX3/Signalink Out into the field and run digital fairly easy. This is just a Wish for something in the future. By the way, great rig. 73 Jim Jim Jones - N9DIX Waverly, TN __ 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 donw...@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
