Re: [Elecraft] P3 Utility for Mac ?
A big thanks to all the developers of Mac ham radio software and utilities. I am in the midst of a move (physical) that was proceeded by a move (PC - Mac). The hold up had been the availability of Mac Ham software. There are still some holes here (Weather related, like GR Level 3) but as I bring my station back up after the move, it will be on a Mac. I look forward to using this software. Dave Wilburn NM4M On 8/6/10 23:56 , Phil Hystad wrote: OK, thanks. No problemo. I think I can still pound on the keyboard of my Windows machine. On Aug 6, 2010, at 8:47 PM, Dick Dievendorff wrote: My colleague David Fleming, W4SMT, has indicated that it is close. His P3 has probably just arrived. He has done the coding but needs to test with a real P3. He is also porting the K3 Freq Memory Editor. I'd guess these are probably days or a week away but not months, barring unforeseen difficulties. Dick, K6KR Sent from my iPhone On Aug 6, 2010, at 8:37 PM, Phil Hystadphys...@mac.com wrote: I see that the P3 Utility for Mac OS X is not yet available. Will this be available soon? I do have a Windows 7 laptop that I can dig out of the corner and dust off but I prefer to maintain stuff on my Mac where my backup and other files (K3) are kept. By soon, I don't mean by tomorrow, which is a Saturday. That would be silly. I was thinking maybe by Monday. OK, just kidding. Now, where is my Sony VAIO laptop... 73, phil, K7PEH __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] P3 - Will it be able to monitor K3 output
Will the P3 (at some point) be able to monitor / display the output of the K3 (or any other radio)? Such as a band scope to check modulation levels or transmit frequency. Dave Wilburn NM4M __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] P3 Critics
SWEET!!! Can someone pass the kool-aid please? I had assumed it was firmware upgradeable. Thanks for the update. Look forward to the pics and more info. Or just setup a webcam at the booth! Dave Wilburn NM4M Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft wrote: We have a -very- defined process for market research. :-) And part of that is the feedback we get from the reflector, pro and con. We also have a very defined method of prioritizing our regular K3 internal feature upgrades. We are not haphazardly responding to the loudest noise on the reflector ;-) The P3 we are showing at Santa Barbara is our engineering prototype. Our intent is to get additional feedback on the design. While we will not be totally redesigning it (we've done a lot of prior market research) we do expect to incorporate some of the suggestions. Plus we have many unannounced P3 features and the feedback gives us a feel for what we should work on first. Also, the P3 has fully upgradeable firmware through the same K3Utility process as the K3. We ask that people do not criticize it as if it was 100% complete and shipping today. It certainly will evolve slightly as it gets to market. We -are- looking for constructive and realistic suggestions. Keep 'em coming. That's how we get the best products out there. 73, Eric WA6HHQ Elecraft __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] QSK options inquiry
Then it would be a, wait for it now. Little Shack of Horrors :p Dave Wilburn NM4M Lyle Johnson wrote: ARRL has reviewed the Acom 1000, 1010 and 2000. See QST or the ARRL website. The answer to all this discussion is found in this pair of sentences from the 1010 review in December, 2006: So what does the 1010 give up in exchange for its svelte packaging and lower price? The short answer is about 300W output, full break-in CW (QSK) and 6 meter coverage. QST is your friend... 73, Lyle KK7P __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] K3 Scanning on 6 Meters
http://n2.nabble.com/K3-Scanning%2C-no-6M-td463516.html#a463517 Dave Wilburn NM4M Jim - W6VAR wrote: I tried scanning on 6 meters today and I get the message SCAN NO ALLOWED ON THIS BAND. Anyone know why is this not supported on the K3? Firmware is 3.14. Jim __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] 897 vs K3
A lot depends on what is important to you, and what you want to do with the rig. If you are contesting, its a no brainer. The K3 receiver performance when surrounded by strong signals, is unmatched. If you want to hunt DX, and dig out weak signals. I would go with the K3. If you like to operate CW, and you want a rig that one of the best in that mode, then the K3 is the way to go. If you are going to rag chew with your friends and talk on local repeaters, the 897D is a good rig. If you need a rig with all the bands and modes of the 897D, then the K3 is not a useful choice. If you like to listen to foreign broadcasts, outside the ham bands, then the K3 will require addition features to be able to receive those frequencies. Dave Wilburn NM4M Ben Ramler wrote: Evening Group, Well here's a dilemma. do I get an 897D or do I dive in and get a K3 to start with than upgrade it from there. The thing that sticks out is that K3 is light years ahead of the 897D. However I would have to get brand new because the asking used price is such that no one is willing to work with me on. thoughts? 73, Ben __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Sending sequential serial numbers with the K3
Everyone is 59(9) in a contest. There are keyers out there that handle serial numbers. As one example; http://www.idiompress.com/K5.html I am sure there are more. Signal reports only have relative value, especially in a contest. The fact that a contest station down the street with stacked beams and multiple towers can pick you up 599 +20dB, is no indicator that my low dipole can pick you up. It is as they say, all relative. 73 es gud DX Dave Wilburn NM4M David Pratt wrote: In a recent message, Tom-N2YTF thomastum...@yahoo.com wrote ... It would be great if there was a macro you could insert into a cw memory that sent incremental numbersfor example, store XXX 5NN TU de N2YTF In M4 and have the K3 automatically send 001 5NN TU de N2YTF and the next time M4 is sent- 002 5NN TU de N2YTF This is not 'great' at all, Tom. What if the station is not 5NN? Not all signals are RST599 at my QTH. What you really need is a means for the K3 to decode the readability, signal strength (from the S-meter) and tone of the signal and be able to send those, together with a sequential serial number, either in full numerals or shortened numerals. Surely that is not beyond the capabilities of the Aptos developers? 73 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Sending sequential serial numbers with
Awesome Job! Congrats. I just jumped on a few times and hunted around for something interesting. Dave Wilburn NM4M Nick-WA5BDU wrote: Me too. I was having such fun in the contest, I had not idea it could be causing such pain in others. 155 Qs, 61 countries and a nice little test drive for the K3 ... 73- Nick, WA5BDU R. Kevin Stover wrote: I apologize for the stomach upset. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Sending sequential serial numbers with the K3
As a less experienced CW operator, the various portions of the exchange (especially during the more complicated exchanges) act as markers so I know what to listen for next. In that sense it is more important than a signal report. The signal report is a standard, a tradition. That being said, there are variations that of propagation, local noise, QRN and QRM that limit its value. But this is the fun that is ham radio. If you want to contest, there are contests. If you want to chase DX, you can do that. If you want to rag chew, there is plenty of that going on. Ham radio means different things to different people, and even different things to the same people, at different times in their life. It is a pretty impressive hobby. 73, did not mean to stir things up. Stay well, stay safe. Dave Wilburn NM4M David Pratt wrote: So why bother with sending reports in contests if they are meaningless, Dave? I remember as a new young licensee in the 1950s we used to work in contests to get reports to see how well we were getting out. One of the contest rules of the day was that any station consistently getting tone reports less that 9 could be disqualified. Those were the good old days. Since then the world has gone mad. If everyone is 599, why not just NR 001 etc ? I have to admit that on the rare occasions I work contest stations my reports are not always 5NN. They could be 5DN or even 5BN. 73 David In a recent message, David Wilburn dave.wilb...@verizon.net writes Everyone is 59(9) in a contest. There are keyers out there that handle serial numbers. As one example; http://www.idiompress.com/K5.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Sending sequential serial numbers with the K3
I send sequential numbers on CW and RTTY using N1MM and the K3. I do not know of a way to do this without a computer. I have not heard of a simple way to do this on voice. It would help if we knew what mode you were asking about. Dave Wilburn NM4M Tom-N2YTF wrote: Isn't there a way to send sequential serial numbers with the K3, or is that my imagination? I could have sworn I came across that feature while exploring the K3... 73, Tom-N2YTF __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Successfully using a micro fan to keep K2 cool
With so many high volume low speed (and thus low noise) fans out there, I would have a hard time justifying doing more than setting one up on the heat sink on top (for 100w version). But operating styles and locations vary, so YMMV. 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M W B Reese wrote: How noisy is it ? One idea I've had for a long time is to remove the elecraft fan on the rear of K2 and find a hose of the proper diameter, somehow mounting it in a semi-permanent fashon. at the other end of the hose, a box with a big fan that can really blast some serious air through the K2. Put the box on the floor or in the next room so you don't have to hear it. Any thoughts ? TR, WB6TMY K2 S/N 838 At 09:24 AM 5/27/2009 -0700, you wrote: I happened to have one of these in my parts bins and it seems to work just fine. It sets on top of the unit in right-rear, on the heatsync. I have it limited by a 47ohm resister soldered to the switched DC inside the unit. For standard qso usage, it keeps the heatsync just slightly warm to the touch. And its so tiny it has very little cosmetic effect on the unit. I would suggest Elecraft manufacture this as an accessory, providing a clamp assembly. 12VDC Micro Fan Model: 273-240 | Catalog #: 273-240 1.6 square, .39 depth Tel: . . . 707-832-4304 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K1 actual serial number critical when buying a used k1
Take a look at; http://www.elecraft.com/Apps/mods.htm and http://www.elecraft.com/order_form_parts.htm Dave Wilburn NM4M Michael van Hauten wrote: hello folks, i plan to buy a used k1. Are there some main revisisons or changes on the mainbord or firmware? is there a difference between older and newer serial numbers? what is the actual serial number rangeß withe the K2 we have actually the range 67xx. 73 de DC0ZO, Michael __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] OT - SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products
Recent discussion regarding verticals, internal antenna tuners and remote antenna tuners was very interesting. Based on that discussion, it seemed the optimized solution was a vertical, with good radials, and a remote tuner at the base (generalization). Based on a quick check of remote tuner cost, new they seemed to start around $400 and go up from there. I have not looked at used cost. I have been burned too many times on eBay. Some have used cheaper tuners and put them in a waterproof bin. A worth while option to consider. I would like to try a vertical here, and possibly a setup for when I travel. Being on the east coast, it is not hard to get near salt water for major contests. I only have basic wire antennas, no beams, no quads, and no tower. In the near term I want to try out (experiment with) a 33' vertical. At Frostfest this year I picked up 32' or so of fiberglass mast. I am going to tape a wire to this that is 34' long, twist the mast to wrap the slack up, much like a widely spaced helical. When setup at home, it would (eventually) have a good ground field (would start out with 16 radials and work my way up to 60'ish). The coax run when used at the house would be less than 40'. When setup for portable operation (connected to mount I have for my trailer hitch, to use when parked) it would have 4 radials of a length not yet determined and the coax run would be less than 20'. In both cases I would be using the tuner for the K2 (portable) or K3 (at home). In the long term, I am thinking about the SteppIR vertical (haven't decided which one). Same deal with the radials. It would inherit what I had down, or start at 16 and work up. http://www.steppir.com/files/vertical%20brochure.pdf Current plans are for ground mounting. I understand that as radials go, more is better. The radials would be black insulated wire on, or within 1 of the surface of the ground. They would not be cut to 33' or less if the space was not available. I am curious on the experience of the group with a similar vertical, tuner at the rig, and short coax run. I am also curious of the experience of the group with the SteppIR verticals. There is similar up front cost as the vertical / remote tuner solution (assuming a new weather proof tuner). Thanks for the always enlightening discussions. 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT - K3 SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products
How does the antenna interface to the rig(s)? I have not looked at what is going on with the control box, need to understand that better. If it connects to the rig via the serial port, not sure how the rig would then be used by control program or for contesting. Thanks Dave Wilburn NM4M K2MK wrote: I am also curious of the experience of the group with the SteppIR verticals. There is similar up front cost as the vertical / remote tuner solution (assuming a new weather proof tuner). Hi Dave: Sometimes it's hard to tell this Yahoo Group from the SteppIR Yahoo Group. There are so many of the same call signs posting messages. I've had my BigIR with 80 meter coil for almost 2 years and I am extremely pleased with it. No internal tuner, no external tuner, no tuner period. Just excellent SWR everywhere on 80 through 6 meters. And not just part of each band, the entire band. Performance is probably the same as any similar sized vertical. You get out what you put in. Lay down a lot of copper and you'll be rewarded with excellent performance. The transceiver tracking feature works perfectly with the K3. I know it works perfectly with the K2 as well. The antenna length automatically changes as you QSY. 73, Mike K2MK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT - SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products
Good stuff as always Ron, thanks. The multiple wires on the fiberglass is a VERY interesting idea. Plus if I add sections, 43'ish is 5/8 on 20m, the main ban I operate on. I am mainly interested in 40' and up. I'll get 80 and 160 with other wires. Thanks for taking the time to reply Ron. I seldom walk away from one of your enjoyable posts without learning something. 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: If you are talking about multi-band operation, you can expect the SWR to range up to above 60:1 on some bands, particularly where the radiator is near 1/2 wavelength. That's why ATU's designed for operation at the antenna are used for such applications. And, yes, they tend to be expensive. The Stepper antenna adjusts its length to 1/4 wave on the band in use, AFAIK. That way it presents a decent match to coax on any band in its range. However, matching to a longer antenna up to 5/8 wave provides substantial low-angle gain over a 1/4 wave radiator. That's easily done with a matching network at the base. One way to accomplish that at a lower price than a commercial ATU at the antenna is to put in a matching network for each band, relay switched, at the base. On some bands only an inductor will be needed, with taps for each band selected by relays if you are adverse to going out to the antenna. On others capacitors may be involved (such as when the antenna is near 1/2 wave long and presents a very high impedance at the base). IN that case you might have a separate network that is switched in. It's not as hammer simple as buying an ATU and plugging it in, but it can be even more efficient and at a lot lower cost. For many of us, that's what makes Ham radio fun: doing for $1 what anyone with a fat wallet can do for $100. You can probably get away with one matching network setup per band, at least on 40 and up, and keep as low an SWR to the actual rig as you want using the rig's built in ATU. (That's what it is really for ;-) Just be sure the SWR on the coax isn't so high you have unacceptable losses. With an insulated pole like you have, another way to economically arrange a vertical covering several bands is to tape several radiators to it, insulated from each other, each 1/4 wave long for the band of interest. You can feed them in parallel with one run of coax, especially when dealing with harmonically-related bands (e.g. 40/20/10 meters) but it can be made to work on other combinations with a little pruning so that the SWR is low enough to avoid excessive coax losses. Then you let your rig's ATU do the final tweaking to keep your finals happy. You might do a little research on radials. The relationship of the number of radials to antenna efficiency is not linear. The more radials you have, the less adding more improves the efficiency. Also, the higher the feed point impedance, the less important near-field ground losses become. For example, a half wave radiator with a feed point impedance typically several thousand ohms is very efficient with no ground connection at all. OTOH a 1/8 or 1/16 wave radiator with a feedpoint impedance of less than an ohm requires the best possible ground for any reasonable efficiency. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Recent discussion regarding verticals, internal antenna tuners and remote antenna tuners was very interesting. Based on that discussion, it seemed the optimized solution was a vertical, with good radials, and a remote tuner at the base (generalization). In the near term I want to try out (experiment with) a 33' vertical. At Frostfest this year I picked up 32' or so of fiberglass mast. I am going to tape a wire to this that is 34' long, twist the mast to wrap the slack up, much like a widely spaced helical. When setup at home, it would (eventually) have a good ground field (would start out with 16 radials and work my way up to 60'ish). The coax run when used at the house would be less than 40'. When setup for portable operation (connected to mount I have for my trailer hitch, to use when parked) it would have 4 radials of a length not yet determined and the coax run would be less than 20'. In both cases I would be using the tuner for the K2 (portable) or K3 (at home). In the long term, I am thinking about the SteppIR vertical (haven't decided which one). Same deal with the radials. It would inherit what I had down, or start at 16 and work up. http://www.steppir.com/files/vertical%20brochure.pdf Current plans are for ground mounting. I understand that as radials go, more is better. The radials would be black insulated wire on, or within 1 of the surface of the ground. They would not be cut to 33' or less if the space was not available. I am curious on the experience of the group with a similar vertical, tuner at the rig, and short coax run. I am also curious of the experience of the group with the SteppIR
Re: [Elecraft] OT - SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products
Oh yea, been there. Thats some good stuff. I have been going back and forth between that, some really good info that SteppIR provides on radials, ON4UN's book, and the ARRL antenna book. The two books laid the foundation, but N6LF's page, and the info from SteppIR really tied the pieces together nicely. Thanks. Dave Wilburn NM4M Dave G4AON wrote: Dave, you could do a whole lot worse than read about radial lengths at: http://www.antennasbyn6lf.com/ Look about halfway down the page at the various pdf documents describing his experiments and measurements. 73 Dave, G4AON K3/100 and fishing pole vertical against 16 radials on 40m --- Recent discussion regarding verticals, internal antenna tuners and remote antenna tuners was very interesting. Big snip Thanks for the always enlightening discussions. 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT - SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products
Yes that is a good page. I had considered elevating the vertical, but with the fiberglass mast I would need to get several more sections, and then wasn't that crazy about the elevated wires over the back yard. If I recall, he wanted a pair of resonant wires for each band for the elevated setup. Dave Wilburn NM4M Erik N Basilier wrote: David, W.r.t. radials you may want to study the findings of Rudy Severns, N6LF at www.antennasbyn6lf.com. His findings have also been published in QEX (spread over several recent issues). Some of his findings in simplified bullet form: A number of 1/8 wave radials will be better than half that number of 1/4 wave radials. At least until you have 32 or more radials. Four is just not enough. The latter quote applies to radials on the ground. In contrast he confirms that four elevated radials work great. You really need to read it all, and you should certainly not assume that 1/4 wave radials on the ground are a good choice. Personally I can testify that elevated radials can be very very much better than a poor ground level ground. Years ago I had put up inverted L's for 80 and 160. I first tried feeding them against my existing safety ground system which consists of a number of ground rods; one the feed point, another at the electrical meter, a couple at my tower (an important tie-in to my station ground still to be completed). These are tied together with 4 wide buried copper ribbon, branches of which also extend to some far-away parts of the lot. Although I achieved a good impedance match, the received signal strength was incredibly poor. I then added two elevated 1/4 wave radials for each band, suspended under the eaves of the 1-story house, trees, and short poles attached to the fence. The impedance match was still very good, and the antennas worked very well indeed. I believe I would have had the same results with verticals. I also recall trying just a few 1/4 wave buried radials for a vertical way back in my youth, with poor results. I am now a big fan of elevated radials. If you decide to go with ground level radials, I suggest you perform a sanity check after you install them: Temporarily string up one or two 1/4 wave radials at a height of 10 ft or so, sloping one end down to the feed point. Compare the results from the temporary radial(s) with results from your radials on the ground. If the elevated radials work best, consider either making them permanent, or improving your other radial system by adding more radials, and possibly making them shorter. 73, Erik K7TV In the near term I want to try out (experiment with) a 33' vertical. At Frostfest this year I picked up 32' or so of fiberglass mast. I am going to tape a wire to this that is 34' long, twist the mast to wrap the slack up, much like a widely spaced helical. When setup at home, it would (eventually) have a good ground field (would start out with 16 radials and work my way up to 60'ish). The coax run when used at the house would be less than 40'. When setup for portable operation (connected to mount I have for my trailer hitch, to use when parked) it would have 4 radials of a length not yet determined and the coax run would be less than 20'. ... Current plans are for ground mounting. I understand that as radials go, more is better. The radials would be black insulated wire on, or within 1 of the surface of the ground. They would not be cut to 33' or less if the space was not available. I am curious on the experience of the group with a similar vertical, tuner at the rig, and short coax run. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT - K3 SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products
Thanks. I get that. How does it interface to the K3? How does it know it should change bands when you change the rig? I'm thinking back now, and recall some posts about a splitter cable. I'll hit nabble. Thanks Dave Wilburn NM4M WILLIS COOKE wrote: The motor unit has a stepper motor and a roll of beryllium-copper tape with evenly spaced holes (about 0.75 in apart). A sprocket runs the tape in and out in response to pulses from a computer in the shack. The computer keeps track of the tape position and the tape runs up a fiber-glass tube to 1/4 wave length long. You can step it up or down one unit at a time to get the best match with a couple of buttons or push a band button to run to the set position for that band. I don't have a SteppIR vertical, but I do have a 3-element SteppIR beam. The beam has two tapes to make a dipole. The beam has a balun but I would not think you would need a balun for a vertical. There might be some kind of matching, but I can't remember as I have not seen inside a vertical since last field day. The SteppIR products work great, but maybe require a bit more maintenance than an aluminum antenna. Willis 'Cookie' Cooke K5EWJ --- On Sat, 5/16/09, David Wilburn dave.wilb...@verizon.net wrote: From: David Wilburn dave.wilb...@verizon.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT - K3 SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products To: Elecraft Discussion List elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Saturday, May 16, 2009, 12:39 PM How does the antenna interface to the rig(s)? I have not looked at what is going on with the control box, need to understand that better. If it connects to the rig via the serial port, not sure how the rig would then be used by control program or for contesting. Thanks Dave Wilburn NM4M K2MK wrote: I am also curious of the experience of the group with the SteppIR verticals. There is similar up front cost as the vertical / remote tuner solution (assuming a new weather proof tuner). Hi Dave: Sometimes it's hard to tell this Yahoo Group from the SteppIR Yahoo Group. There are so many of the same call signs posting messages. I've had my BigIR with 80 meter coil for almost 2 years and I am extremely pleased with it. No internal tuner, no external tuner, no tuner period. Just excellent SWR everywhere on 80 through 6 meters. And not just part of each band, the entire band. Performance is probably the same as any similar sized vertical. You get out what you put in. Lay down a lot of copper and you'll be rewarded with excellent performance. The transceiver tracking feature works perfectly with the K3. I know it works perfectly with the K2 as well. The antenna length automatically changes as you QSY. 73, Mike K2MK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT - K3 SteppIR Vertical and Elecraft Products
Awesome stuff. Thanks much, just what I was trying to find out. Maybe I have already heard the antenna, when I worked you last November. Guess it depends on what antenna you use on 80m. ;) 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M K2MK wrote: Thanks. I get that. How does it interface to the K3? How does it know it should change bands when you change the rig? I'm thinking back now, and recall some posts about a splitter cable. I'll hit nabble. Hi Dave: You can order the SteppIR controller with an optional interface board that provides a serial port. You can also order a serial cable from SteppIR to match the K3. It is the S13 cable. You would also need the SteppIR Y cable to split your PC serial port to the K3 and to the SteppIR controller. This enables you to run any kind of rig control or contest software and also use your K3 Utility Program while maintaining communication with the SteppIR controller. You could also make these cables yourself. The SteppIR controller follows the band changes and minor frequency changes that you make on the K3 and adjusts the length of the antenna on the fly. On some bands the antenna changes length every 10KHz and on other bands it changes every 50KHz. It is a totally hands-free operation. 73, Mike K2MK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Dayton - Initial Reconnaissance
A friend that went to Dayton this year stopped by the Elecraft booth. Unfortunately, beyond the K3, he is not familiar with Elecraft, and cell service inside is not good. But I did get a text saying they had these specification sheets out. (New) Computing Watt Meter Active Filter Amp 41 dB HF / VHF Attenuator Unfortunately I was unable to get a call through and find out what hardware was on display. Always seem to be able to get the words, Can you hear me now?, but not the important stuff like what is on display. Oh well, hopefully some more news trickles in. 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Dayton - Initial Reconnaissance
Great stuff. Thanks for the update. I wonder if the display is at a specific size and resolution, so by integrating the screen it is a known element. I had kinda hoped it would be a box that would plug into the K3, and then plug into an available screen. You could put it on a 44 LCD, or a 20 LCD, what ever your budget was. Not to poo poo the thing before it is out. I am very much looking forward to it regardless of the integrated screen. In days of old, I worked on a panoramic receiver that was used by the B-52G/H and I very much look forward to playing with one again. Dave Wilburn NM4M Ed, W9EJB wrote: Just returned home from Dayton. The only new K3 developments as reported by Wayne are the new W2 wattmeter (~$240) and the 2 meter add on for the K3 (K144XV ~$300). Eric indicated that the K144XV should be available by August. It will require an upgrade (actually a trade out) of the KXV3 for another $40. New versions, the KXV3A will only be available in the future. Sorry about the guesses on the prices, they actually had the reall prices listed at the booth. I just have a bad memory. I asked (very politely I might add) about the panadapter. Eric said to expect it by the end of the year. It will not be cheap because of the integrated color screen. My sense, is about $700. Eric said more than the $300 - $500 price range which I guessed at. Ed, W9EJB David Wilburn wrote: A friend that went to Dayton this year stopped by the Elecraft booth. Unfortunately, beyond the K3, he is not familiar with Elecraft, and cell service inside is not good. But I did get a text saying they had these specification sheets out. (New) Computing Watt Meter Active Filter Amp 41 dB HF / VHF Attenuator Unfortunately I was unable to get a call through and find out what hardware was on display. Always seem to be able to get the words, Can you hear me now?, but not the important stuff like what is on display. Oh well, hopefully some more news trickles in. 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Price promo on K3 at Dayton?
http://n2.nabble.com/K3-or-SDR-5000--td457400.html http://n2.nabble.com/SDR---K3---and-GUI-Interface-td447927.html You can do all kinds of flexible searches here; http://n2.nabble.com/Elecraft-f365791.html Flexible, he he, too funny, I made a punny. Dave Wilburn NM4M David Christ wrote: Please summarize the differences in philosophy that you noticed. David K0LUM Adam Koczarski wrote Also heard Lyle talk about the K3 as an SDR. Basically what I heard at the presentation he gave at his house last year. Prior to Lyle's presentation there was a presentation about the Flex. Differing philosophies were apparent. Maybe a few barbs back and forth. :) Adam - K3ARK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 COOLING VENTS
I think another important point is the ambient temperature calibration. If that is off (the K3 thinks 30c is 15c) the fans may not come in when they should. Dave Wilburn NM4M K2ZLS wrote: Thanks to Brendan and all the responders: I have received several answers similar to yours regarding the heat sink effect. But, I already knew that. The reason I'm bringing this up is that the concern for hot spots is already there. After running the K3 hard, try powering down, remove power and the top cover. Feel around the front side and you will notice the warmth of the display, the other boards and the KRX3 box, which has NO ventilation inside and is a heat sink by itself. If you examine the air flow you can't help but see that the air movement DOESN'T GET to these areas. It's concentrated in the area around the AMP enclosure. That's my point. The K3 CAN be improved if a little more attention is paid to draining this heat supply more efficiently instead of accepting the rise in heat as a GOOD thing. I think improving the ventilation is the key here and maybe you are right, my idea of cross ventilation may not be the best thing. Maybe, instead of drawing ALL cooling air from the top opening, a side vent is installed to provide an additional source of cooling air that will find its own way to the output fans. The balance in the size of the openings is important to regulating the air flow. 73's From 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 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Heat
The fail temperature of the PA's is going to be well known and documented. Then a safety factor is added. But I seem to recall that early comments on heat design criteria was for 10m key down, 100% duty cycle, without damage. But that is just the memory talking. YMMV 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M rfenab...@gmail.com wrote: I am now wondering how do you settle on Normal, Heavy and simply Flat out to come up with a design limitation? From the factory? Much conjecture and pure guesswork has been written in recent posts as well as some very informative opinions on the cooling system used by Elecraft. Perhaps we should hear from Elecraft on what design criteria was used when the decision was made to use the existing cooling arrangement. Does the addition of the KPA-3 and now the 2m option board alter the effectiveness of the cooling system as designed? Just how *heavy* is heavy?..use or perhaps abuse..? Feeling around a radio as soon as you power down appears to me to be the same as sticking your fingers on a radiator of a car immediately after switching off. These days a lot of cars run electric fans to allow an even cool down period after running. To make my point clearer, when I use the ride-on mower for an hour or more, I run the motor for a few minutes after I finish to effect a cooling down of the motor, I do not run my K3 (or any other radio) for RTTY then pull the power, call me cautious perhaps, but it just seems logical to me. I hope Wayne, Eric and Lyle et al post a response in depth on this topic as many of us have differing points of view. My two cents worth, or was that a Nickel? Gary VK4WT K3 s/n 679 Sent via BlackBerry® from Telstra __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Sneak Preview: New Elecraft products
Yea, I was rollin when I read that. Prior to the hints, there was rash of LP-Pan sales a month or two ago. Dave Wilburn NM4M Bill W5WVO wrote: wayne burdick wrote: and a panadapter (Doh!) Why didn't I think of that? There have been a number of back-handed hints over the past day or two that the panadaptor IS coming, and in my estimation Real Soon Now. Just a SWAG, no insider information, but the clues are there IMO. Hang tight... Bill W5WVO 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] My Attitude
Agreed. It is funny. If you go back and look at very old articles in QST, you will find that each generation of hams states how much easier the ones that came behind have it. Its human nature. The other piece of the puzzle is the difference between book learning, and applying something that has been learned. It is all well and good to understand ohm's law, but quite different to apply that. Which is why it is a, License to Learn. This is where Elmering, and sharing make all the difference. Many aspects of society have changed that impacts this. But clubs, reflectors, newsletters and websites help share experience. Hopefully those trying to learn have someone near by to help, to show how it works, and explain things. That is one of the greatest parts of this reflector. Wandering off topic and learning from someone else's experience. Thanks to all for sharing and helping. 73 and have a good weekend. Dave Wilburn NM4M Doug wrote: I think some of you old timers are missing the point of generational changes. I agree that there is no excuse for laziness however, times have changed in the world of technologies. You old timers were able to make a respectable livelihood at circuit/component level designing, testing and repairing. This is what the electronic/consumer market was all about. When software started coming into the picture you labeled it firmware, left it alone and gave it to the dork stuck in the corner to deal with because it wasn't hardware. And, you stated that his firmware was pointless because it couldn't do anything without your hardware. Well...if you haven't figured it out yet...times have changed. Now how many of you old timers could successfully write a line of software code (outside of hello world) let alone a full-on application? How many of you old timers could derive a filtering algorithm and translate it into a software routine? Do I call you lazy or dumb because most of you can't? No...I wouldn't dream of it because that technology wasn't from your era. I agree with Brendan's last comment that the answer here is to help. But help is a two way street as well. Many old timers label some of the digital modes mainly PSK as No Code Extra mode. Is it really? Can any of you old timers really explain how it works? Or do you just dismiss it because it isn't CW or write it off because you don't see any RLC networks? If you do your homework...these digital modes are far more complex to derive than CW ever was. So we have a clash of generational changes in both technology and people. Can we say one is better than the other? Nope, I don't think we can. Can we be happy that new members are joining the ranks? Well I am very happy. Do we owe it to ourselves to provide mentoring? I think we do. And just maybe...that idiot that couldn't explain what inductance is because all he has to do is push a button labeled tune will be the guy to fix a computing, networking problem on that new radio 10 years from now that is pure software defined because that isn't your cup of tea. K0ZU/Doug -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Brendan Minish Sent: Saturday, May 09, 2009 8:56 AM To: JIM DAVIS Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] My Attitude JIM DAVIS wrote: There's nothing wrong with your attitude ! In fact I agree with it completely, as it seems that the people that are getting into the hobby recently really don't know how to fully utilize their equipment nor their antenna arrays. What amateur radio needs is more people who have been in the hobby a while to freely share their knowledge with others. we all started in radio with limited knowledge and learned along the way. Regardless of any thoughts some may have on current exams standards we owe it to ourselves and the hobby we get so much pleasure from to help newcomers to gain a better understanding of Amateur radio. 73 Brendan EI6IZ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help
Re: [Elecraft] [OT] Suggested techniques for teaching CW?
I'm experienced in this, mainly as a result of going about it the wrong way initially, and then having to re-learn it once I wanted to do morse code. Initially I bought the 5 wpm CD when I was first licensed in 2001. I then went to take the test, and found out that the letters were sent much faster, due to farnsworth compression. An idea that makes sense, send the letters at 18 wpm, but space them out so they words are sent at 5 wpm. Then once you learn it at 18wpm, then just change the spacing to speed up. But no one told me about it before the test. G4FON's software, was how I started re-learning the code. The software is handy, but I think there are some better tools out now for the initial learning and practice. Though once you have the hang of the basic code, G4FON is great tool. You can dump text into it, and send it to yourself. I used to edit the quotes out of webpages (like news) and have the software send it to me. http://www.g4fon.net/ A program to help learn the letters is Morse Machine. It sends the letter at the speed of your choice, then you have to type it in. http://downloads.tech-pro.net/morse-machine_tpmm01.html A good program for daily practice is RUFZ-XP http://www.rufzxp.net/ This sends a call sign, at a speed setting of your choice. If you get it correct, it speeds up. You get it incorrect, it slows down. Great for short practice. Two 15 minute sets at different times throughout the day, is good. Morse runner is a good program practice also. It simulates a contest and exchange. It can be run for a 15m interval. http://www.dxatlas.com/MorseRunner/ That and the other fine links that have already been posted and the great advice others have sent should go well for you. The software will only get you so far. Get out there with someone, and get on the air, or just practice in a room with code oscillators. One suggestion. I am not trying to start a huge debate, but merely comment on what I have experienced, and what I have heard. Many will state that code should first be sent with a straight key. This is fine if you have someone to work with. A lot of the bad straight key code heard on the air will back me up on this. What worked well for me, was learning to send good code with paddles and a keyer. I did not have an elmer to work with, I was on my own. Using a keyer and paddles taught me what good code sounds like. Then when I picked up a straight key, I knew what good well spaced code sounded like, and I just had to replicate it. That is no simple task. Once you know what good code sounds like, the straight key is a great tool. You really get a feel for the weighting and spacing. There is plenty of code out there sent with improper spacing, or no spacing at all. When I was re-learning code the last few years it made me nuts to get in QSO's with these folks, and not be able to sort out what they were sending. Folks that have been doing it for many a years, can sort this out just fine. I was not able to, though I am getting better with practice. Many fine operators (and there are a lot of them on here) learned on straight keys, and many of them had fine elmers (or instructors) teaching them, helping them, and correcting their mistakes. This makes all the difference in the world. Many folks have MP3 players now days. They are cheap and everywhere. I have one on my cell phone, and I download a bunch of the MP3's from the ARRL archive and play them when I have some time. I mix them up with stuff that is too fast for me, some that is a little fast, and some that is easy. Once I listen to the too fast the others sound slower. When listening to the too fast, I just try to pick out a few letters or short words. When I listen to the little fast and the easy, I work on memory retention. Something that is getting harder at 48. I especially like listening to the MP3's at night while I am sleeping. I don't know why, it helps me sleep, and I admit to having some weird dreams as a result. I never said I was normal, just happy. http://www.arrl.org/w1aw/morse/Archive/ Best of luck to you, and I hope to catch you and your students on the air. 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M TF3KX wrote: Hi - I know this is very remotely related to Elecraft, but good advice is never in short supply in this group... Here in Iceland the requirement for knowledge of CW is no longer required for amateur HF licenses - a trend that we see in most countries nowadays. Still, I am interested in establishing CW courses for those new amateurs who may want to learn CW, and I am seeking advice from those of you who have experience. For example... - General suggestions for methods (Koch, etc.) - Software and other tools for class teaching and individual practice between classes - Teaching methodologies and approaches (frequency of classes, length, character groups,...) - Other activities to support and encourage (kit building,
Re: [Elecraft] [OT] Suggested techniques for teaching CW?
Those were some great links. Thanks Drew for making those available. I have a friend that is trying to get his speed up, I'm going to pass it along. Dave Wilburn NM4M Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: Doug GM0ELP wrote: ... most people who already know cw forget the part where you simply have to memorise the code. All the methods discussed so far come after this hurdle. Except the program Drew, AF2Z has made available at: http://www.archive.org/details/U.S._Armed_Forces_Institute_Basic_Radio_Code _ca1942 It starts with hearing the sounds of Morse, then moves into characters. It teaches perfect copy using groups of letters and numbers, so it doesn't help with the eventual hurdle of doing head copy of plain text, but it is a good way to learn the basics up to and including 16 WPM or so for someone who never heard Morse. Ron AC7AC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Kit Building
The K2 was a similar experience for me, from the build perspective. I purchased it to have the best CW rig, and built it to save money. I had much more fun building it than I had expected. Dave Wilburn NM4M K2/100 S/N 5982 K3/100 S/N 766 wayne burdick wrote: Hi Terry, This was a bit of an experiment when we designed our first product, the K2, about 10 years ago. But we've used the same method on many products since then, and it works very well, keeping things light yet rigid. Our little 2D fasteners are an integral part of these designs, holding together PCBs and panels at edges and corners. The net result is that the K3 weighs only about 8 to 9 pounds, compared to 30 to 55 pounds for competing rigs. 73, Wayne N6KR On Apr 30, 2009, at 12:00 PM, Terry wrote: Let me ask a question while this thread is still active. Having the RF board act as the structural backbone is unique in my experience. Is this a common method of construction as opposed to a traditional chassis? As I add panels (side, back) to this I'm amazed at how strong and rigid the structure seems. 73 de Terry KK6T K3 #2965 --- http://www.elecraft.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [K3] FirmWare Updates
Yes, you can save the configuration using the firmware utility. I have not noticed many config changes. In the past (many releases ago) a few items changed on occasion, but I haven't noticed anything like that for quite a while. Dave Wilburn NM4M Rich wrote: Is it my imagination or does loading a new version of firmware reset to default or change in some way some of the settings I have programmed in? Why do setting change after a new firmware load? If this is to be expected can I save the configuration and then reload my saved configuration after updating the firmware? Rich __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX
Been a while since I was at that load, but I do know you cannot transmit CW without VOX on. Several rigs I have used do this when using their internal keyers. What happens to me, since I use VOX in RTTY for keying, then go to SSB, and turn VOX off, then go to CW and VOX is off. According to Wayne, per mode VOX settings are in the pipeline, but are not hear yet. Dave Wilburn NM4M John Gaynard wrote: Yesterday, suddenly my K3 had no RF output on CW. It had been a few days since I was on so I was kind of mystified since it worked fine last week. The TX light was flashing, and I could hear the TX relay in the PW-1 amp clicking. In desperation, I went to SSB mode and there was full output power when I spoke into the MIC since obviously VOX was on in SSB mode.. I did not consciously notice the VOX missing on the display in CW mode. I went back to CW, and then I noticed the VOX was not displaying. I never consciously turn off VOX but obviously I held the Band switch a bit too long and turned off VOX during a band switch last week. I never use the QSK option. So I experimented a little bit. I turned on VOX and QSK then I turned off VOX, then turned off QSK, and SEMI appeared in the VFO B display briefly for about a second. I keyed the K3 and the TX light flashed and no RF output. Am I correct in thinking that you cannot be/should not be in SEMI mode unless VOX is turned on. I am on firmware level 2.38. Without VOX or QSK turned on, you should not be able to put the rig in transmit mode by touching the key. I generally glace at the new firmware releases to see if there are any relevant fixes I'm interested in. If not, I just choose not to upgrade firmware. The funny thing was that I did remember to make sure I was not in TEST mode since that essentially does the same thing. Essentially, if VOX is off, QSK is off, and you are in CW mode, you are in TEST mode by default. Has this been fixed in a subsequent firmware release. It can be disconcerting to suddenly turn on the K3, get ready to chase a DX station, only to find you have no RF output, but everything looks normal. If in TEST mode, at least the TX symbol flashes. John K8WDN K3 #157 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] FW: K3
If you are operating in a mode, and output power does not seem to be where it should, and then you press and hold XMIT, putting it in Tune mode. Release it, I do this by tapping the PTT foot switch. If you now go back to your previous mode and get expected output power, this was fixed with a firmware release. I experienced it with SSB. Once I pressed Tune, then back in SSB the K3 performed as expected. Take a look at the beta software release notes on the site. You can do this without loading the software. Dave Wilburn NM4M d r wrote: i have the 2.78 version installed and it does the same thing... i tried reloading the firmware and did not change... as far as modes i run all modes from sstv to hell, psk, rtty, olivia.. My agc settings vary for different modes, but just say on PSK i run the AGC to one line below max for the threshold. I am using the Computer sound card into the line in line out... It works fine when i go to CW and key the radio and get the full power out then it i will do the full 100+w on data... hope this explains it a little better.. From: wa1...@hotmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: K3 Date: Mon, 20 Apr 2009 21:48:31 -0400 From: wa1...@hotmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Date: Mon, 20 Apr 2009 21:21:41 -0400 when operation the K3 in data mode i only get 50w of power out. but i noticed if i am coming out of CW mode, or go to CW and hit the key and go back to DATA i get full power output... what could be causing this? Rediscover Hotmail®: Get e-mail storage that grows with you. Check it out. Windows Live™: Life without walls. Check it out. _ Rediscover Hotmail®: Get quick friend updates right in your inbox. http://windowslive.com/RediscoverHotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Rediscover_Updates2_042009 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX
Good point, I had heard of folks using a foot switch for PTT instead of VOX, but never tried it. Have to check that out at some point. I just look forward to when I can force SSB Vox to always be off. Tired of switching modes and finding out that the Vox is on when the phone rings and the rig keys. It is all coming down the pipe. I have really been enjoying the split band feature. A VFO on different bands, jumping back and forth. The rig just keeps getting better all the time. Dave Wilburn NM4M Bill W4ZV wrote: John Gaynard wrote: Am I correct in thinking that you cannot be/should not be in SEMI mode unless VOX is turned on. I am on firmware level 2.38. Without VOX or QSK turned on, you should not be able to put the rig in transmit mode by touching the key. You CAN transmit by touching the key...IF your keyer has a PTT connection to the K3. I was tripped up by this yesterday while testing a new firmware release. I had forgotten I had connected my Winkeyer's PTT1 output to the K3 PTT In on the rear panel. I always have my foot switch connected via the front panel MIC connector using the Heil AD-1K adapter, but I had forgotten about the rear panel connection. This was with CONFIG PTT-KEY: OFF-OFF. 73, Bill W4ZV P.S. I believe Nabble has now fixed their quoted text attribution problems...we'll see if this post goes through correctly! __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] FW: K3
Ok, then you have something else going on. That was fixed 3.03 or so. Dave Wilburn NM4M d r wrote: i tried the new ver 3.10 and it did not help... but no if i leave a steady carrier from my sound card it slowley creeps up to max power... will try the new version to when it comes out later today... From: wa1...@hotmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: FW: K3 Date: Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:40:56 -0400 i have the 2.78 version installed and it does the same thing... i tried reloading the firmware and did not change... as far as modes i run all modes from sstv to hell, psk, rtty, olivia.. My agc settings vary for different modes, but just say on PSK i run the AGC to one line below max for the threshold. I am using the Computer sound card into the line in line out... It works fine when i go to CW and key the radio and get the full power out then it i will do the full 100+w on data... hope this explains it a little better.. From: wa1...@hotmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: K3 Date: Mon, 20 Apr 2009 21:48:31 -0400 From: wa1...@hotmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Date: Mon, 20 Apr 2009 21:21:41 -0400 when operation the K3 in data mode i only get 50w of power out. but i noticed if i am coming out of CW mode, or go to CW and hit the key and go back to DATA i get full power output... what could be causing this? Rediscover Hotmail®: Get e-mail storage that grows with you. Check it out. Windows Live™: Life without walls. Check it out. Rediscover Hotmail®: Get quick friend updates right in your inbox. Check it out. _ Rediscover Hotmail®: Get e-mail storage that grows with you. http://windowslive.com/RediscoverHotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Rediscover_Storage2_042009 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX
If the rig is in Data mode, AFSK and VOX is turned on, then switch to SSB mode VOX is on. Turn VOX off and switch back to Data mode, and VOX is off. I don't do FSK. I didn't do RTTY till I got the K3, and am very happy with the AFSK. That may change one day, but I'm good for now. I use DTR for keying from N1MM on CW contests, so don't want to mess around with that. Have not gotten AFSK and DTR keying working in conjunction with Logging software and MMTTY. Admittedly didn't give it much effort, as VOX works fine. Wayne has mentioned that independant VOX settings is on the list for these modes, and I am happy to use it like it is now, until the updates are made. If there is a way to key for AFSK with MMTTY and DXLABs, or DXLABS and WinWarbler, I would be happy to hear the setup. I just want to be able to switch between N1MM for CW / RTTY contests (with MMTTY for the RTTY contests) and DXLABS for casual opperating. If there is a better RTTY software / setup that interfaces with N1MM that makes this all easier, I am willing to give that a shot. I just want something that I can setup and switch between my operating styles with minimum hassle. Dave Wilburn NM4M Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: What happens to me, since I use VOX in RTTY for keying, then go to SSB, and turn VOX off, then go to CW and VOX is off. Huh? My K3 maintains separate VOX status for CW and SSB. I can (and do) leave VOX on for CW (semi break-in) and leave VOX off (PTT operation) for SSB. The only linkage between modes is DATA (AFSK A, DATA A), SSB, AM and FM. BTW, VOX is not available in RTTY (FSK D). 73, ... Joe, W4TV -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David Wilburn Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 8:57 AM To: Elecraft Discussion List Subject: Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX Been a while since I was at that load, but I do know you cannot transmit CW without VOX on. Several rigs I have used do this when using their internal keyers. What happens to me, since I use VOX in RTTY for keying, then go to SSB, and turn VOX off, then go to CW and VOX is off. According to Wayne, per mode VOX settings are in the pipeline, but are not hear yet. Dave Wilburn NM4M John Gaynard wrote: Yesterday, suddenly my K3 had no RF output on CW. It had been a few days since I was on so I was kind of mystified since it worked fine last week. The TX light was flashing, and I could hear the TX relay in the PW-1 amp clicking. In desperation, I went to SSB mode and there was full output power when I spoke into the MIC since obviously VOX was on in SSB mode.. I did not consciously notice the VOX missing on the display in CW mode. I went back to CW, and then I noticed the VOX was not displaying. I never consciously turn off VOX but obviously I held the Band switch a bit too long and turned off VOX during a band switch last week. I never use the QSK option. So I experimented a little bit. I turned on VOX and QSK then I turned off VOX, then turned off QSK, and SEMI appeared in the VFO B display briefly for about a second. I keyed the K3 and the TX light flashed and no RF output. Am I correct in thinking that you cannot be/should not be in SEMI mode unless VOX is turned on. I am on firmware level 2.38. Without VOX or QSK turned on, you should not be able to put the rig in transmit mode by touching the key. I generally glace at the new firmware releases to see if there are any relevant fixes I'm interested in. If not, I just choose not to upgrade firmware. The funny thing was that I did remember to make sure I was not in TEST mode since that essentially does the same thing. Essentially, if VOX is off, QSK is off, and you are in CW mode, you are in TEST mode by default. Has this been fixed in a subsequent firmware release. It can be disconcerting to suddenly turn on the K3, get ready to chase a DX station, only to find you have no RF output, but everything looks normal. If in TEST mode, at least the TX symbol flashes. John K8WDN K3 #157 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman
Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX
You are correct, I do not have an interface. I stumbled across some setup for N1MM when I first got the K3 that used OFF-DTR. So I have never mucked about with that, since it was working. What do I set the rig to? I'm not sure what the difference between RTS-OFF and OFF-RTS is. I'll go download the latest manual and see if I can figure that out. I do have dual USB / serial ports available, but am only using one at the moment. In the dual port scenario would the two serial ports on the computer be connected to the one serial port on the rig with a custom cable? I was not aware that FSK could be done without a TNC or one of your boxes. I'm going to come back to see you at some point when I try to get the K2 and K3 to play together with SO2R. But that is down the road a bit. Thanks again es 73 Dave Wilburn NM4M Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: If the rig is in Data mode, AFSK and VOX is turned on, then switch to SSB mode VOX is on. Turn VOX off and switch back to Data mode, and VOX is off. That's correct but the title here is CW and VOX ... If there is a way to key for AFSK with MMTTY and DXLABs, or DXLABS and WinWarbler, I would be happy to hear the setup. I just want to be able to switch between N1MM for CW / RTTY contests (with MMTTY for the RTTY contests) and DXLABS for casual opperating. I do it all the time. What interface are you using for PTT? What interface for CAT? Assuming you are using only a single serial port for both control and PTT: With DXLab/WinWarbler, set Commander for PTT on RTS (Ports - RTS = On to Transmit) and set WinWarbler PTT Mode (PTT tab) to XCVR Ctrl SW. In N1MM simply set RTS to PTT on the radio port. If you have two ports ... In WinWarbler set PTT Mode = RTS and set FSK Control (RTTY tab) to the port (other than control) that you are using for PTT. In N1MM, open the DI MMTTY configuration and set the PTT (or PTT FSK) port on the TX tab (again - set it to the port you have selected for Digital in N1MM hardware configuration). If there is a better RTTY software / setup that interfaces with N1MM that makes this all easier, I am willing to give that a shot. I just want something that I can setup and switch between my operating styles with minimum hassle. N1MM/MMTTY and DXLab Suite/Commander/WinWarbler are extremely simple and follow the radio seamlessly. 73, ... Joe, W4TV SNIP __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX
Oh, meant to ask, do your interfaces do ultimatic? That may be a two bird with one stone deal. Dave Wilburn NM4M Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: If the rig is in Data mode, AFSK and VOX is turned on, then switch to SSB mode VOX is on. Turn VOX off and switch back to Data mode, and VOX is off. That's correct but the title here is CW and VOX ... If there is a way to key for AFSK with MMTTY and DXLABs, or DXLABS and WinWarbler, I would be happy to hear the setup. I just want to be able to switch between N1MM for CW / RTTY contests (with MMTTY for the RTTY contests) and DXLABS for casual opperating. I do it all the time. What interface are you using for PTT? What interface for CAT? Assuming you are using only a single serial port for both control and PTT: With DXLab/WinWarbler, set Commander for PTT on RTS (Ports - RTS = On to Transmit) and set WinWarbler PTT Mode (PTT tab) to XCVR Ctrl SW. In N1MM simply set RTS to PTT on the radio port. If you have two ports ... In WinWarbler set PTT Mode = RTS and set FSK Control (RTTY tab) to the port (other than control) that you are using for PTT. In N1MM, open the DI MMTTY configuration and set the PTT (or PTT FSK) port on the TX tab (again - set it to the port you have selected for Digital in N1MM hardware configuration). If there is a better RTTY software / setup that interfaces with N1MM that makes this all easier, I am willing to give that a shot. I just want something that I can setup and switch between my operating styles with minimum hassle. N1MM/MMTTY and DXLab Suite/Commander/WinWarbler are extremely simple and follow the radio seamlessly. 73, ... Joe, W4TV -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David Wilburn Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 11:25 AM To: Elecraft Discussion List Subject: Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX If the rig is in Data mode, AFSK and VOX is turned on, then switch to SSB mode VOX is on. Turn VOX off and switch back to Data mode, and VOX is off. I don't do FSK. I didn't do RTTY till I got the K3, and am very happy with the AFSK. That may change one day, but I'm good for now. I use DTR for keying from N1MM on CW contests, so don't want to mess around with that. Have not gotten AFSK and DTR keying working in conjunction with Logging software and MMTTY. Admittedly didn't give it much effort, as VOX works fine. Wayne has mentioned that independant VOX settings is on the list for these modes, and I am happy to use it like it is now, until the updates are made. If there is a way to key for AFSK with MMTTY and DXLABs, or DXLABS and WinWarbler, I would be happy to hear the setup. I just want to be able to switch between N1MM for CW / RTTY contests (with MMTTY for the RTTY contests) and DXLABS for casual opperating. If there is a better RTTY software / setup that interfaces with N1MM that makes this all easier, I am willing to give that a shot. I just want something that I can setup and switch between my operating styles with minimum hassle. Dave Wilburn NM4M Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: What happens to me, since I use VOX in RTTY for keying, then go to SSB, and turn VOX off, then go to CW and VOX is off. Huh? My K3 maintains separate VOX status for CW and SSB. I can (and do) leave VOX on for CW (semi break-in) and leave VOX off (PTT operation) for SSB. The only linkage between modes is DATA (AFSK A, DATA A), SSB, AM and FM. BTW, VOX is not available in RTTY (FSK D). 73, ... Joe, W4TV -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David Wilburn Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 8:57 AM To: Elecraft Discussion List Subject: Re: [Elecraft] CW and VOX Been a while since I was at that load, but I do know you cannot transmit CW without VOX on. Several rigs I have used do this when using their internal keyers. What happens to me, since I use VOX in RTTY for keying, then go to SSB, and turn VOX off, then go to CW and VOX is off. According to Wayne, per mode VOX settings are in the pipeline, but are not hear yet. Dave Wilburn NM4M John Gaynard wrote: Yesterday, suddenly my K3 had no RF output on CW. It had been a few days since I was on so I was kind of mystified since it worked fine last week. The TX light was flashing, and I could hear the TX relay in the PW-1 amp clicking. In desperation, I went to SSB mode and there was full output power when I spoke into the MIC since obviously VOX was on in SSB mode.. I did not consciously notice the VOX missing on the display in CW mode. I went back to CW, and then I noticed the VOX was not displaying. I never consciously turn off VOX but obviously I held the Band switch a bit too long and turned
Re: [Elecraft] Keyers
I would be interested in peoples experience with the K1EL keyer. I am interested in Ultimatic. I have not learned to use an Iambic mode, but I am getting to the point where it can make a difference in sending. I am seriously thinking about picking up a K1EL, but I know Ultimatic is on the list for K3 somewhere down the road. So I have been dragging my feet. Maybe some impressive stories will help me pony up the money and dig out the soldering iron. I really do need to get this place better organized. Dave Wilburn NM4M Erik N Basilier wrote: I have had my K1EL Winkeyer USB for a while now. It is the first keyer I have had which can be set to Ultimatic, and I find I make fewer mistakes in that mode. A plus over the K3 built-in keyer. Its computer interfacing is a big plus too. On the other hand, the speed pot leaves me guessing as to what the actual speed is, while the K3 keyer very conveniently displays the speed. (When the Winkeyer speed is set from N1MM, the speed is clearly displayed on the computer.) Finally, my Winkeyer came from a batch of 500 where the front panel silkscreen was off, so that the SPEED label is partly hidden behind the speed knob. 73, Erik K7TV - Original Message - From: Andreas Junge andr...@n6nu.org To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, April 20, 2009 5:57 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Keyers My vote goes to the K1EL Winkeyer USB. Easy interfacing of computer and paddles. Hitting the paddles during computer genrated keying will immidiately stop the output and one can take over manually. Also has a speed pot and 4 buttons on the box. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] I need your help...Spammer
There is a very bad bug out now, one of many that preys specifically on systems that are not patched. I think we are seeing the result of people not keeping their system patched, or using older OS's that are no longer patched by MS. Bad MS, no cookie! How often have you heard someone say, I stopped letting Windows update my machine, it keeps messing it up. Conflicter was already out in 4 strains, and as it becomes more successful, it will be re-written to do more, thus it will likely mutate. Dave Wilburn NM4M Thom LaCosta wrote: At 06:53 AM 04/08/09, Don Wilhelm wrote: Paul is a valid member of this reflector. But notice the undisclosed recipients. I would believe his computer has picked up a virus that is using his email contact list. Of course someone could contact him and ask if he sent it. If he did, then it would end the speculation on the list If he did not, then he might realize his system was infected or We could keep on posting and wondering and conjuring reasons. 73, Thom k3hrn Sometimes the simplest approach is the one that works __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 - VOX setting per mode
I am not sure if this is a bug or a feature ;) Start out with the rig in SSB, and the VOX off. Then go to CW mode and the VOX is on. Good so far. Then go to RTTY. VOX is off. In my case, I need VOX on, so I turn it on. Now I go back to SSB where I started out, and VOX is on. Which I usually find out when I lay the headset on the table, or any loud noise. The opposite is also true. If you turn off VOX in RTTY, it stays off, regardless of previous settings in SSB mode. Why do SSB and RTTY have to follow the VOX setting of the other? On RTTY, I operate AFSK and use VOX for keying the rig. I usually have N1MM or DX Labs controlling the rig through the serial port. There may be another solution, but this has always worked well for me. The only problem is what seems to me, to be an inconstancy in the application of VOX. I usually find out the VOX is not on in RTTY, when I try to answer a CQ, and it doesn't work. Is this how it is supposed to work, or am I not doing something correctly? Dave Wilburn NM4M __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 RTTY problem
If you are plugging into a laptop, make sure the port is set to line in. Mine comes up and asks me, whenever I plug something in. Dave Wilburn NM4M R. Kevin Stover wrote: Which program are you using? Did this ever work? What changes have you made since it worked? The line out on the K3 is a low level line out and would sound attenuated compared to the level on the speaker/phones jack. You've got the level as high as it will go on the K3, swapped the audio cable for a known good one, time to start looking at the sound card and application settings on the computer. n1...@aol.com wrote: I posted this Sunday bust since then I have been having email problems. If you responded please send it again. I am having a problem with receiving RTTY signals. It worked before so I assume it is something I have set incorrectly. There is no? display of any text or even jiberish on any of the RTTY applications. No waterfall, nothing at all. I have tried different computers and multiple applications with the same results. I have adjusted the line out item in the config menu to full scale. I have replaced the cable between line out and the computer. I plugged headphones into the line out jack I can hear the RTTY signal but it seems to be attenuated. Although I don't know how loud it should be. I think it should be louder that it is. BTW: transmit doesn't work at all. That will be the subject of another email. Any help would be appreciated. ? Dave N1IX __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KX1] - Display dead after 30m/80m install
Ok Don. Will do. I have been helping him remotely. I will get over there and take a look at it. Just as a follow-up, he got his test readings to me. Here they are; Resistance Table U1 Called for 1k Pin 1 - .582 Pin 20 - .582 Pins 3, 4, 8, and 19 all had correct readings. D2 D3 s1 on 1k D2 D3 s1 off 10k Voltage Checks U1 1 - ok 2 - 0v (S/B 5v) 3 - 2.5v (S/B 4.6v) 4 - 2.5v (S/B 4.9v) 5 - 4.14 (S/B 4.9v - this is likely close enough) 6 - 4.90 (S/B 3.4v) 7 - 12 good readings 13 - 00v (S/B 5.0v) 14 - 2.46v (S/B 00v) 15 - 20 good readings 21 - .1v (S/B 5.0v) 22 - .1v (S/B 5.0v) 23 - 28 good readings U2 8 - 2.91v (S/B 1.32v) 14 - 1.27v (S/B 00v) I asked John to describe where the shoulders of the U1 chip were, in relation to the seats in the holder. He said the wide part of the pin, was seated all the way down in the socket. I am going to try to get by his place to give the thing a visual, but it sounds like he has good solder and U1 well seated. Dave Wilburn NM4M Don Wilhelm wrote: Dave, It sounds like U1 is not plugged in securely. When U1 is inserted into the socket, most of the narrow part of the IC pins are fully into the socket. It does take a bit of pressure to seat U1 in the machine pin socket. Make certain all the pins are started into the socket pins and then apply pressure with both thumbs on the IC body, fingers under the board and squeeze until the leads seat completely. If that does not cure the problems, look critically at the soldering. The solder should flow out to an almost invisible edge on both the solder pad and the component lead at each connection. If there is a defined edge to the solder, insufficient heat was applied during the soldering process. I am not certain why, but from the number of KX1 repairs that I have done, soldering problems are more common with the KX1 than other Elecraft kits. Perhaps builders are more hesitant to apply sufficient heat due to the more dense component placement, but somehow that does happen. If the solder connections look more like ' balls' than 'mountains' having a concave fillet, you can be certain insufficient heat was used during the soldering process, and the only cure is to wick away the excess solder and apply good solder using sufficient heat (700 to 750 deg F). 73, Don W3FPR David Wilburn wrote: I'm helping a friend troubleshoot a KX1. Unit was fine after build. Took unit apart and installed 30m/80m. Then 3rd digit did not work on display. He re-flowed some pins on the unit (I do not know which ones and he does not recall) and now the display is not functional at all. I started him checking through the resistance checks on page 26 of the document. Pins 1 20 of U1 has about 500 ohm on it, whether U1 is installed or not. We have been all through the voltages with D3/D2, U8, and U9. All the regulators seem good. Though I did caution him about running from a wall wart. His 12v seems a bit low. Around 11.5v. As a result of this, the voltage on pin 4 of U1 is a bit low at 3.5v. Also pin 14 is at 2.5v where it is supposed to be low. I find little odds and ends here that are not right, but if the display is not functional I would expect bigger issues. Some voltage off on clock inputs wouldn't seem the culprit. Also the ATU was not plugged in. We have worked through the troubleshooting tree, problem 00, I need to review with him where he is on problem 20. We looked through problem 26. No pins are bent on U1. All of the voltages were good except the 2 mentioned. I have not built a KX1, but built a K2. My thoughts are to go through the various resistance and voltage checks for the 3 build sections and see if we can make any sense of it. Am I headed in the right direction? Am I missing anything obvious since I am not familiar with the KX1? I'm hoping my friend (John, K6OWD) got setup on the list today. Dave Wilburn NM4M K2/100 S/N 5982 K3/100 S/N 766 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.176 / Virus Database: 270.10.14/1918 - Release Date: 1/27/2009 7:26 AM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Need Help with XG1
I don't have mine in front of me, but it is the SMA device that is on there that you need to replace. It gets blown out. I'll grab the docs real quick and follow-up. Dave Wilburn NM4M Pete Smith wrote: I have an XG-1 Receiver Test Oscillator which I must have accidentally zapped with RF somehow (I don't know when) because the output resistors R6-8 were fried. I replaced them, as well as R4 and R5, C4 and the transistor. The slide switch in the output tests ok. When I turn the XG-1 on, I can very faintly hear its signal, so it appears that the oscillator is working, but the output level is nowhere near what it should be. Voltage at the top of C3 is 1.23 volts. Anyone have any ideas where else I could look? Elecraft tech support was helpful but ultimately gave up. 73, Pete N4ZR the World Contest Station Database is back, and updated daily www.conteststations.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Need Help with XG1
It appears I was thinking of another device. I would first suspect Q1. Dave Wilburn NM4M David Wilburn wrote: I don't have mine in front of me, but it is the SMA device that is on there that you need to replace. It gets blown out. I'll grab the docs real quick and follow-up. Dave Wilburn NM4M Pete Smith wrote: I have an XG-1 Receiver Test Oscillator which I must have accidentally zapped with RF somehow (I don't know when) because the output resistors R6-8 were fried. I replaced them, as well as R4 and R5, C4 and the transistor. The slide switch in the output tests ok. When I turn the XG-1 on, I can very faintly hear its signal, so it appears that the oscillator is working, but the output level is nowhere near what it should be. Voltage at the top of C3 is 1.23 volts. Anyone have any ideas where else I could look? Elecraft tech support was helpful but ultimately gave up. 73, Pete N4ZR the World Contest Station Database is back, and updated daily www.conteststations.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] [KX1] - Display dead after 30m/80m install
I'm helping a friend troubleshoot a KX1. Unit was fine after build. Took unit apart and installed 30m/80m. Then 3rd digit did not work on display. He re-flowed some pins on the unit (I do not know which ones and he does not recall) and now the display is not functional at all. I started him checking through the resistance checks on page 26 of the document. Pins 1 20 of U1 has about 500 ohm on it, whether U1 is installed or not. We have been all through the voltages with D3/D2, U8, and U9. All the regulators seem good. Though I did caution him about running from a wall wart. His 12v seems a bit low. Around 11.5v. As a result of this, the voltage on pin 4 of U1 is a bit low at 3.5v. Also pin 14 is at 2.5v where it is supposed to be low. I find little odds and ends here that are not right, but if the display is not functional I would expect bigger issues. Some voltage off on clock inputs wouldn't seem the culprit. Also the ATU was not plugged in. We have worked through the troubleshooting tree, problem 00, I need to review with him where he is on problem 20. We looked through problem 26. No pins are bent on U1. All of the voltages were good except the 2 mentioned. I have not built a KX1, but built a K2. My thoughts are to go through the various resistance and voltage checks for the 3 build sections and see if we can make any sense of it. Am I headed in the right direction? Am I missing anything obvious since I am not familiar with the KX1? I'm hoping my friend (John, K6OWD) got setup on the list today. Dave Wilburn NM4M K2/100 S/N 5982 K3/100 S/N 766 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] What is the best General logging program for K3
DX Labs is the best I have used so far, and I have tried many. Once setup, it makes working with LOTW a snap. But I do more work from the DX cluster, or controlling the rig directly, as opposed to the GUI interface. Dave Wilburn NM4M J Kulp wrote: I have been quite inactive for almost 10 years and it appears my logging program is quite outdated. What is recommended that would --- 1. Control the K3 with a mouse 2. Compare my log with the cluster putouts and audibly ANNOUNCE needed countries via voice or preferably CW so I could hear it in the next room 3. Upload easily to LOTW 4. Be easy to operate very very stable The above are mandatory, however it would be nice if it supported some digital modes as well Tnx gud DX de jim K3SW ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Sequencer keying with K3/XV-144 without rigblaster?
How much delay do you need? I use the 50 mS delay from the key out jack, to drive the amp. Dave Wilburn NM4M eric norris wrote: Dear Elecrafters: I am selling my TS-2000 and building a K3/XV-144 for EME on 2m as well as normal modes and digital on HF My question is, has anyone figured out how to eliminate using a rigblaster when using a K3 with a sequencer (LNA Technologies)? The K3 isolates the audio signals, but I don't see how I can pick off the PTT without making it cumbersome to use on HF digital modes (sequencer not used). Right now I use the LNA Technologies mic cable to pick off the PTT coming from the rigblaster, send it to the sequencer, then it comes back to the rig from the sequencer (with the preamp and amp PTT controlled by the sequencer also). This requires using a serial switch--sending the computer signals either to the K3 (or TS-2000) directly for all other digital modes, but sending it to the rigblaster when using 2m for EME. I would really like to find a solution where I don't have to constantly swap cables, or cut into the XV-144's PTT line to send it to the sequencer since this means I would then always have to use the sequencer for 2m. Any and all help appreciated. Please reply to my email directly. 73, Eric WD6DBM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 PK-232 FSK RTTY Setup
I'm in the process of picking up a PK-232, primarily for EmComm / Pactor 1. I'm not intending to start a passionate discussion between FSK / AFSK, but had a question. I have been running AFSK since I received my K3 last March. It has worked well, but it is the only RTTY I have known. I have seen the reason given for running FSK vs. AFSK as the ability to use the radio's filters. That is a moot point in the K3. I also understand that when using FSK, it is a different distribution of resources. I have MMTTY running with N1MM (when I am contesting), and MMTTY triggers the radio via VOX. This has the annoyance that when I click on a SSB spot, then a noise in the shack triggers the VOX kicks in and causes feedback. Now to my question. If I am happy with how the RTTY is performing now using AFSK, what is the incentive to setup for FSK? Dave Wilburn NM4M Ed Gray W0SD wrote: For those now or in the future wanting to setup the PK-232 with the K3 using FSK here is the information. I would think you could do this very similarly for the Hal and other TNC'S. Of course the specific wiring would be different but the same general hook up should work. This set up does not use the computer sound card at all. First you need a software program to control the PK-232 or the TNC you are going to use. I used Writelog but there are other software programs that will work. The PK-232 has a cable from it to a serial COM port port on your computer which you need to set up in your software, in my case Writelog. That is all you need between the PK-232 and the computer. There is absolutely nothing hooked to the computer sound card. The K3 should be set to FSK D, see page 31 of the K3 manual revision D1. Next you should be sure your software program is set up for the same tone and shift that you have the K3 set to. On the K3 activate pitch and set it accordingly. Most common would be 2125-170 which is what I have Writelog set at. From the K3 run an audio line from the line out to the Radio 1 or Radio 2 RX input on the PK-232. This jack is hooked respectively to the same place as J4 or J6 which is the 5 pin flat connector. I would suggest using Radio 1 and running an audio cable from the K3 line out to J3 which is the Radio 1 RX input. The K3 end is a sterio plug and the PK-232 is a mono plug. On the K3 go ahead and use a stereo cable and plug it into the K3 line out. On the PK-232 end of this cable cut off the stereo plug and solder on a mono plug. The tip from the stereo plug should be hooked to the tip of the mono plug which will be the left channel. This will be the K3 audio. The ring(one next to the tip) would be the SUB so just leave it unhooked and hook the barrel from the stereo plug to the ground of the mono plug. Go to the K3 config:Line out. I set it for about about 25. Remember the K3 manual is talking about sound card input when they mention 10 and here we are talking about input into the PK-232. The PK-232 manual says to have at least 200 mv RMS of receive audio. Using my scope and then calculating RMS I came up with the setting of 25 to get 200 mv RMS. It is better to be a little low than too high so you don't have distortion. For FSK transmit you need to hook the PK-232 FSK keying which is pin 1 of the DIN plug J7 to Pin 1 FSK Input of the K3 accessory plug. You hook the ground, Pin 2 of J7 to Pin 5 of the K3 accessory plug. J7 on the back of the PK-232 is labeled so that is easy. The K3 accessory jack information is on page 18 of the K3 manual revision D1. Be sure and note that the picture you are looking at in the K3 manual of the accessory jack is the radio pin out and not the plug on the cable you are making so be careful to use the correct pins. I just took a Video cable and cut the female connector off and used the appropriate wires to hook to the PK-232. The extra wires can be folded back and cut to different lengths and heat shrink tubing put over them so no wires can short to each other. From J4 on the PK-232 which is the 5 pin flat connector hook up the PTT line Pin 5 to the K3 accessory plug pin 4. This should complete the FSK setup for the K3 with the PK-232. Ed W0SD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 PK-232 FSK RTTY Setup
Thanks for all of the replies. I use VOX with MMTTY, because in the past there was a sharing problem with some programs needing to access the ports. When contesting I use N1MM / MMTTY. When I was just RTTY hamming, I was using ACLOG and MMTTY, which did not like to share. Now I have setup DX Labs, and will likely use that and WinWarbler for general digital hamming, but the frequencies and modes are all over the place at the moment, from the default setup. Need to play with it some more and get it setup. Thus I can likely use the RTS DTS settings now. Dave Wilburn NM4M David Wilburn wrote: I'm in the process of picking up a PK-232, primarily for EmComm / Pactor 1. I'm not intending to start a passionate discussion between FSK / AFSK, but had a question. I have been running AFSK since I received my K3 last March. It has worked well, but it is the only RTTY I have known. I have seen the reason given for running FSK vs. AFSK as the ability to use the radio's filters. That is a moot point in the K3. I also understand that when using FSK, it is a different distribution of resources. I have MMTTY running with N1MM (when I am contesting), and MMTTY triggers the radio via VOX. This has the annoyance that when I click on a SSB spot, then a noise in the shack triggers the VOX kicks in and causes feedback. Now to my question. If I am happy with how the RTTY is performing now using AFSK, what is the incentive to setup for FSK? Dave Wilburn NM4M Ed Gray W0SD wrote: For those now or in the future wanting to setup the PK-232 with the K3 using FSK here is the information. I would think you could do this very similarly for the Hal and other TNC'S. Of course the specific wiring would be different but the same general hook up should work. This set up does not use the computer sound card at all. First you need a software program to control the PK-232 or the TNC you are going to use. I used Writelog but there are other software programs that will work. The PK-232 has a cable from it to a serial COM port port on your computer which you need to set up in your software, in my case Writelog. That is all you need between the PK-232 and the computer. There is absolutely nothing hooked to the computer sound card. The K3 should be set to FSK D, see page 31 of the K3 manual revision D1. Next you should be sure your software program is set up for the same tone and shift that you have the K3 set to. On the K3 activate pitch and set it accordingly. Most common would be 2125-170 which is what I have Writelog set at. From the K3 run an audio line from the line out to the Radio 1 or Radio 2 RX input on the PK-232. This jack is hooked respectively to the same place as J4 or J6 which is the 5 pin flat connector. I would suggest using Radio 1 and running an audio cable from the K3 line out to J3 which is the Radio 1 RX input. The K3 end is a sterio plug and the PK-232 is a mono plug. On the K3 go ahead and use a stereo cable and plug it into the K3 line out. On the PK-232 end of this cable cut off the stereo plug and solder on a mono plug. The tip from the stereo plug should be hooked to the tip of the mono plug which will be the left channel. This will be the K3 audio. The ring(one next to the tip) would be the SUB so just leave it unhooked and hook the barrel from the stereo plug to the ground of the mono plug. Go to the K3 config:Line out. I set it for about about 25. Remember the K3 manual is talking about sound card input when they mention 10 and here we are talking about input into the PK-232. The PK-232 manual says to have at least 200 mv RMS of receive audio. Using my scope and then calculating RMS I came up with the setting of 25 to get 200 mv RMS. It is better to be a little low than too high so you don't have distortion. For FSK transmit you need to hook the PK-232 FSK keying which is pin 1 of the DIN plug J7 to Pin 1 FSK Input of the K3 accessory plug. You hook the ground, Pin 2 of J7 to Pin 5 of the K3 accessory plug. J7 on the back of the PK-232 is labeled so that is easy. The K3 accessory jack information is on page 18 of the K3 manual revision D1. Be sure and note that the picture you are looking at in the K3 manual of the accessory jack is the radio pin out and not the plug on the cable you are making so be careful to use the correct pins. I just took a Video cable and cut the female connector off and used the appropriate wires to hook to the PK-232. The extra wires can be folded back and cut to different lengths and heat shrink tubing put over them so no wires can short to each other. From J4 on the PK-232 which is the 5 pin flat connector hook up the PTT line Pin 5 to the K3 accessory plug pin 4. This should complete the FSK setup for the K3 with the PK-232. Ed W0SD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noisy fans?
Wasn't there a menu setting that set what speed the fans would run at? Remember something from the assembly instructions. Is it possible these folks have a different setting? Dave Wilburn NM4M Joe Planisky wrote: I stand corrected. There are apparently a lot of quiet K3s out there. I wonder if the quiet fans are from a different manufacturer? The fans in my K3 are made by UTEC: Series 8162 P/N AT6015L-12L2B ND5 Series 8163 P/N AT6015L-12L2B ND2 The replacement fans (from Elecraft) were identical. 73 -- Joe KB8AP On Dec 9, 2008, at 8:34 AM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: There were a number of comments among the first customers that the fans were so quiet they couldn't tell if they were running without turning the rig around and looking at them. That's how mine are too (S/N 10 - early pre-production K3) and I am very sensitive to fan noise. On the rare occasions my K3 is actually assembled an on the operating desk, it's close to a wood paneled wall and I'm not aware of them even though there's not a single other fan our source of noise in the room. Indeed, I sometimes can't hear them running when I'm working on the rig on the bench. After taking a number of complaints about the little whizzer fan in the K2/100, I believe that was Wayne's intent ;-) It sure sounds like something is quite different now. I'd recommend also posting a note on [EMAIL PROTECTED] about it. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Joe Planisky Sent: Tuesday, December 09, 2008 7:56 AM To: David Ferrington, M0XDF Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noisy fans? I think you got lucky and have extra quiet fans :-) 73 -- Joe KB8AP On Dec 9, 2008, at 7:20 AM, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: That's how my K3 is set up too, in a corner where walls can reflect any noise. I still think there is something else wrong. 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 -- They know enough who know how to learn. -Henry Adams (1838-1918) On 9 Dec 2008, at 14:55, Joe Planisky wrote: I've also found that where I place the K3 on my desk makes a difference in how loud the fans sound. My desk is in a corner of the room and if I place the K3 so the back is pointing into the corner, the walls reflect any sound right back toward me and the fans are louder. If I place it on a table in the middle of the room, I don't notice the noise nearly as much. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 vs. IC-7200
Keep in mind that the way Elecraft modularized the input / output interfaces, they can develop a USB interface at a later time. Or Ethernet, or insert latest interface. Dave Wilburn NM4M Gert, OE3ZK wrote: Hi, just testing a cheap Icom IC-7200. It has an very interesting feature which I miss in the K3: The USB Port..! The USB connection presents the IF baseband in PCM format and CI-V data (for radio control and PTT) to the computer running the Icom drivers, thus bypassing the sound-card entirely for digi modes. Very smart... no other wires or interface boxes are required! 73 Gert, OE3ZK ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 S-meters, db and noise
I have to agree. I understand everyone uses the radio in their own way. But I have been a bit dumbfounded by the fascination with the S-meter. I do not see where any S-meter readings are mentioned below... R = READABILITY 1 -- Unreadable 2 -- Barely readable, occasional words distinguishable 3 -- Readable with considerable difficulty 4 -- Readable with practically no difficulty 5 -- Perfectly readable S = SIGNAL STRENGTH 1 -- Faint signals, barely perceptible 2 -- Very weak signals 3 -- Weak signals 4 -- Fair signals 5 -- Fairly good signals 6 -- Good signals 7 -- Moderately strong signals 8 -- Strong signals 9 -- Extremely strong signals T = TONE 1 -- Sixty cycle a.c. or less, very rough and broad 2 -- Very rough a.c. , very harsh and broad 3 -- Rough a.c. tone, rectified but not filtered 4 -- Rough note, some trace of filtering 5 -- Filtered rectified a.c. but strongly ripple-modulated 6 -- Filtered tone, definite trace of ripple modulation 7 -- Near pure tone, trace of ripple modulation 8 -- Near perfect tone, slight trace of modulation 9 -- Perfect tone, no trace of ripple or modulation of any kind David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com Jeff Wandling W7BRS wrote: I can't take it anymore, I'm putting a strip of electrical tape over the upper left patch of the LCD. I can no longer bear to look. Everyone gets S9! -jeff ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [K3] [Elecraft] FLx GN Adding Db gain
Could the built in two tone generator be used as an input for this? Now to download the latest manual and read about the audio voltmeter I did not realize it had. ;) David Wilburn NM4M Craig D. Smith wrote: I have the full range of filters, from 13 KHz to 200 Hz and found that there isn't enough adjustment range to get them all exactly equalized. That is, with the 2.7 KHz set to 0 (minimum possible) and the 200 Hz set to +8dB (maximum possible) the 200 Hz was still 2 dB down from the 2.7KHz. So what I did was to equalize the three filters that I use for CW (my primary mode of operation) at one value and equalize the 13KHz and 2.7KHz filters at another value (used for MW, SW listening, etc). This seems to work out quite well in practice. Here is what I ended up with. The first column is the variation in dB with the AGC off. The second is with the AGC on. I used a signal generator and the K3 built-in audio voltmeter for the measurement. Filterw/o AGCw AGC 13 K -0.5 -0.1 2.7 K 0 0 1.0 K -2.1 -0.4 500 H -1.5 -0.3 200 H -2.0 -0.4 73 ... Craig AC0DS ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [K3] [Elecraft] FLx GN Adding Db gain
If I could ever get enough time to get my shack cleaned up, I would use mine too. But for the moment it is stealthily concealed. Yea, thats it. The advantage of the two tone generator, is I can't loose it. It seems that if the same tone is used, it would be fine. But then again it is not going to work on CW mode. Hrrmph. Now to plan B. Thanks and 73 David Wilburn NM4M Craig D. Smith wrote: I don't know about using the two tone generator. I used an external XG-2 module. The info on the voltmeter can be hard to locate in the manual. In the Rev D manual it is on page 36 under Alternate VFO B displays 73 Craig AC0DS Craig D. Smith PowerSmith Consulting 1009 Alder Way Longmont, CO 80503 phone: 303-678-7958 email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] web: www.PowerSmithConsulting.com -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of David Wilburn Sent: Wednesday, November 12, 2008 8:10 AM To: Elecraft Discussion List Subject: Re: [K3] [Elecraft] FLx GN Adding Db gain Could the built in two tone generator be used as an input for this? Now to download the latest manual and read about the audio voltmeter I did not realize it had. ;) David Wilburn NM4M Craig D. Smith wrote: I have the full range of filters, from 13 KHz to 200 Hz and found that there isn't enough adjustment range to get them all exactly equalized. That is, with the 2.7 KHz set to 0 (minimum possible) and the 200 Hz set to +8dB (maximum possible) the 200 Hz was still 2 dB down from the 2.7KHz. So what I did was to equalize the three filters that I use for CW (my primary mode of operation) at one value and equalize the 13KHz and 2.7KHz filters at another value (used for MW, SW listening, etc). This seems to work out quite well in practice. Here is what I ended up with. The first column is the variation in dB with the AGC off. The second is with the AGC on. I used a signal generator and the K3 built-in audio voltmeter for the measurement. Filterw/o AGCw AGC 13 K -0.5 -0.1 2.7 K 0 0 1.0 K -2.1 -0.4 500 H -1.5 -0.3 200 H -2.0 -0.4 73 ... Craig AC0DS ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Filters, Shift Control and RTTY
If the other station has AFC on in their software, they tend to wander around a bit. I tend NOT to run AFC if I am SP, as I line right up on them. If I am running and there is activity around me, it is hard to run AFC, as my signal then wanders around. But if someone comes up a bit off, or I have some room around me, I then run it. It then aligns my frequency with theirs. Its a lot like CW contests, where so many do not zero you before they call. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com Ron Kenwood wrote: I have been playing in the WAE RTTY contest. I am mainly using the 250Hz roofing filter with DSP bandwidth at 300 Hz. I occasionally use the 1.8kHz filter with DSP set at about 500 Hz. In either configuration, I find that I have to use the shift control to center signals in the bandpass. Not sure if this is a hardware or software thing, but in any case, I have two issues. One is that the minimum shift value is too large to accomplish what I want to do at the narrow bandwidth, and when I try to use the dual bandpass filter it appears that shift is disabled. Am I missing something(highly likely), or do I have to request that changes be added to the wish list? Ron W3ZV ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 - ATU/Bypass Ant1/Ant2
I have recently had the need to use the internal antenna tuner on one antenna and to bypass it on the other antenna. I haven't been able to find a way to do this. I am on the latest beta firmware. I was under the impression that something had been changed in this matter. -- David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 with N1MM question
I was running QSK with N1MM. I usually set the delay to 0. With delay set to zero, I cannot tell a big differnce with QSK on or off (on the K3) when using N1MM to key the rig. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com Randy Moore wrote: I enjoyed last weekend operating SSCW with my new K3/10 and N1MM. Both were a joy to use!! I have one curiosity however. I have the K3 setup for semi-QSK with a delay of 0.03 which works fine for me at about 25 wpm. However, the keying through N1MM operates as though PTT is enabled at the beginning of a transmission and disabled at the end. In other words, I hear no signals during the N1MM transmission. I'm keying through the RS232 port on the K3 from a standard serial port on my PC (same cable as used for the CAT from N1MM). I have PTT--KEY set to OFF-dtr, N1MM set for DTR-CW, RTS-Always off. Is there something I'm missing? 73, Randy, KS4L K3 #2006 K2 #337 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 - SSB Filtering in a tough operating environment
There was some discussion recently about the capabilities of the K3 on SSB. I had some concerns about the rigs capabilities. What I experienced made complete sense when properly explained. But earlier this week, I was truly impressed by the K3's SSB capabilities. During a state wide bi-weekly 80m SSB emergency net, the band changed drastically in a very short time. Net control went from an S5 to down in the noise in a matter of 10 minutes. I listened for a bit, could tell that he was talking but that was it. Nothing was intelligible. To top it all off there were round tables going on 80m where each person, though located near to each other, was running considerable wattage. One of these were within 2kHz of our frequency. Then throw in the normal intentional QRM the net experiences. It was truly miserable conditions. Then I started tweaking. Auto-notch knocked down the intentional QRM. I have the 1.8k filter. I brought the width into 1.8 so it kicked in. I then started playing with the shift. A little bit of NR, and I could copy net control. He wasn't S9, but I had good copy, no fading. Station after station could not hear net control call them. When the adjacent station in my county was called and he didn't reply, I gave him a quick heads up. He replied and finished the net, as did I. In event of a real emergency, this would have made all the difference in the world. I am not a big gun station. We are talking about a low dipole, setup as an inverted vee. The sense of accomplishment, and the confidence in what I can do with the radio went through the roof. This is an amazing rig Elecraft. A big thanks to all the folks who had a hand in bringing us this impressive product. -- David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com P.S. - CQ WW SSB was were I honed these skills, and started learning what all I could get out of this radio. Just two weeks ago. This is how contesting can pay off. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 straight key question
Plug the paddles into the key slot. If you push one of the sides (forget which one) and get a key closure, the problem is with the key / wiring / connect. Then it would be time for some continuity checks. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: My straight key quit working with my K3. Paddles work fine. Used to be I could switch between them and both worked. Any ideas? Paul N4LCD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Positive ALC Amps
I just picked up an AL-811H. It is not positive ALC, but I have not had to connect the ALC. I connected the Key Out right to the Key In of the amp. Set the delay for about 20ms (got tired of the mic picking up the relay) and have been rolling along just fine. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com Lou Aguilar wrote: Does anyone have a list of Amps the use Positive ALC feedback? de KN1W Luis Aguilar KN1W (the picture in QRZ is my son) http://www.mac84.com/kn1w email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3-Problem with DX spot point--click
Except for contests (where I use N1MM) I use ACLOG for all of my general logging. I have not had issues with ACLOG. It is very handy for uploading to LOTW. It would be nice if the interface was a bit more configurable. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com Terry Schieler wrote: Fellow Elecraftonians, For years I have used N3FJP’s ACLog logging software in conjunction with my FT1000MP and TS-850SAT. Like most others, the program has a DX Tel-net spot “point--click” feature that changes the frequency, band and mode on my rigs with lightning quickness. This weekend in the contest I used ACLog with my K3 for the first time. K3/100 #474 Firmware: v2.46 DSP: v1.92 I found that the K3 was very slow to respond to clicking on the DX spots in the logging software. Both the logging program and the K3 were set to 38,400 baud, 8 data bits, NO parity and 1 stop bit. When I would click on a spot that was in the same band that the K3 was currently set to, the frequency change was made fairly quickly. But when I clicked on a spot that called for a band change, I noticed that the mode would often change first (on the K3’s existing frequency) then a 1-2 second delay before the rig changed to the newly spotted band. To top it off, the resulting mode was often incorrect on the K3 after making the change to the new spot. I could find no specific pattern to the mode changes. I checked and rechecked the logging software settings to no avail. It was obvious to me from the get go that the K3 doesn’t change bands all that quickly when pressing the BAND button on the front panel, so I suspect that the logging software is “pressing the button” but the K3 just takes longer to respond to a band change than my old ‘MP or TS-850. Has anyone else experienced this? If so, is there a known fix? I have also sent this info to the logging software’s developer as well as it may be an issue on that end. 73, Terry, W0FM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Beta firmware rev. 2.58: FASTER BAND SWITCHING; BAND MAPPING
Sweet. Thanks Elecraft! You must of been reading my mind. It is hard to explain exactly how annoying it was recently having to keep stopping on 60m when I was going back and forth between 40m and 80m during CQ WW SSB. David Wilburn NM4M wayne burdick wrote: K3 beta-test firmware revision 2.58 (with DSP rev 1.94) is now available. Please send any problem reports to [EMAIL PROTECTED] For instructions on how to load beta firmware, please see: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_software.htm Highlights: * BAND SWITCHING is now possible using MV and the numeric keypad -- a faster alternative to using BAND UP/DOWN * BAND MAPPING allows you to remove individual bands from the BAND UP/DOWN switch rotation (great for contesters, or for those who never use certain bands) * VOX switch is now accessible during voice transmit, so you can turn VOX off if shack noise suddenly increases This revision also fixes the CW pitch = 0 problem from rev. 2.57. Other details appear below. 73, Wayne N6KR * * * MCU 2.58, 10-28-2008 New Features: * FAST BAND SWITCHING USING KEYPAD: We’ve added a “band select” mode for memories 0-9. First, set CONFIG:MEM 0-9 to BAND SEL. You can then use VM to assign individual bands to keypad switches 0-9. For example, use BAND UP/DN to get to 160 m, tap VM, then tap #1. From then on, tapping MV, then #1, will take you to your last-used frequency on 160 m, just as if you had used the BAND switches. Up to 10 of your favorite bands can be assigned to keypad switches, including transverter bands. The behavior of memories 10-99 and the per-band quick memories (M1-M4) will be unchanged. * MAPPING OUT SELECTED BANDS: You can now remove one or more bands from the BAND UP/DN rotation using the CONFIG:BND MAP menu entry. Once you’ve located CONFIG:BND MAP, use BAND UP/DN to select bands, and set them to IN or OUT using VFO A. (Works with transverter bands, too.) You can still get to mapped-out bands using memory recall, direct frequency entry, or computer-control commands (“FA” and “FB”). Miscellaneous: * VOX CAN BE TURNED OFF DURING VOICE TRANSMIT: This is useful if you’re using VOX and have a sudden increase in shack noise that activates transmit. * MSG PLAY IN SSB MODE FIXED: In revision 2.57, tapping M1-M4 to play a message in SSB modes was setting the CW pitch to 0 Hz. This has been corrected. For software developers: * RX COMMAND AND TUNE: “RX” will now exit either an XMIT or TUNE condition. * MANUAL BAND CHANGE IN AI1 and AI2 MODES: Multiple rapid presses of BAND UP or BAND DN were sometimes inserting band-change response data for intermediate bands into the outgoing host command buffer. Now only the data for the final band is sent. --- http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] from John K3JK
Have you confirmed that the port settings in Winders, the application, and the radio all match? David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com John Klokis wrote: hi everyone, would like to ask the group about a problem. I had no problem with my K2 connecting with my N4PY software before a KAT/100 update from 1.09 to 1.10. ever since the update and service to the radio, I can not connnect with my control software. Even with ham radio delux, it locates the comport, but when trying to connect with frequency on radio, the program can not. Has anyone run into this problem before? John K3JK ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 SSB is it really better
Thanks for the very clear explanation Andrew. I had not been as impressed with my K3 in SSB with the 1.8 filter, as I had in CW. But your points are well made and explain the issue well. This has been my experience in SSB also. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com http://www.k4rc.net Andrew Faber wrote: Rich, I've used the K3 in both SSB and CW contests from P49Y. SSB works great, in part because it retains very good intelligibility when cranked down pretty narrow (i.e., below 2.0 kHz). It seems to work better to use the Hi and Lo mode instead of Shift and Width. OTOH, for CW, the rx is really great because of the ability to disregard strong adjacent signals. While that performance capability exists in SSB also, in a contest it isn't as dramatic an improvement over other receivers for the simple reason that in SSB, much of the interference you are trying to eliminate is really in the passband. It's splatter and distortion products from adjacent signals, many of which may have their processors turned way up. The K3 doesn't generate the digital byproducts as my Pro2 does, and that is helpful, but there remains the real interference caused by the other signals. So the net improvement from the great rx qualities doesn't turn out to be as useful in SSB as in CW. In other words, the bands are still a mess in a major SSB contest, and the best rx in the world can't eliminate all the mess. 73, andy, ae6y - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, October 22, 2008 7:42 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 SSB is it really better I'm curious what others are finding with the K3 on SSB in contest conditions. I've had mine for a few months and the difference between my mkv and the K3 is like night and day on cw. I havn't had a chance to really test it out on SSB. I'm getting ready to travel to K5NA's for CQWW and I wonder if its worth taking to replace a ProIII or MKV on 20 meters which will be the money band (unless 15m opens up). 20m will be a mess and I'd like to think the K3 will help with crowded band conditions. Thanks Rich - N5ZC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
I wish I had a nickel for every time I changed the mode, when I wanted to change the band, or vice a versa. I would use all those nickels to by another K3 ;) . Now if I can just figure out a way to stop VOX from coming on when I go to phone, and screeching with the feedback. Which always surprises me since I do not use VOX on phone, but on RTTY and CW. 73 all es keep up the great work. An awesome list as always. David Wilburn NM4M Arie Kleingeld PA3A wrote: Charles, I also find that the way the front panel operates could be improved. But when I purchased the K3 , I knew about all double functions in advance (having a K2). Although I have more than a few flying hours on the K3, I still have to think twice before I change band or mode. The rest gives me no problem. No reason to sell the K3 or to control it by computer for me during normal operation. When in contest, I use N1MM logger as control program. Works just fine. 73 Arie PA3A ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT -- FS: MFJ-949E Deluxe Versa Tuner II
Tuner is sold. David Wilburn NM4M David Wilburn wrote: MFJ-949E Deluxe Versa Tuner II Tuner is in great shape, works well. Has been the back up since all rigs now have auto tuner's. Will be picking up an amp, so I have to move up in the tuner department, so this one must go. It goes for $169.95 new, plus tax and shipping. This one can be yours for $100 plus shipping. I will pay for packaging. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] OT -- FS: MFJ-949E Deluxe Versa Tuner II
MFJ-949E Deluxe Versa Tuner II Tuner is in great shape, works well. Has been the back up since all rigs now have auto tuner's. Will be picking up an amp, so I have to move up in the tuner department, so this one must go. It goes for $169.95 new, plus tax and shipping. This one can be yours for $100 plus shipping. I will pay for packaging. -- David Wilburn NM4M K2/100 - 5982 K3/100 - 766 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Split Operation
From Wayne's message yesterday, in response to a request for this feature, This will be possible after I complete work related to the VFO IND (VFO independence) menu entry. This affects a large amount of firmware, and it won't escape my lab until it's fully tested. 73, Wayne N6KR Hope this helps. I too am looking forward to this update. I know it will get here when it has been tested and debugged. For now I am using my K2 to listen to other bands on a second antenna. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com http://www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/WAS/DXCC status http://www.nm4m.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I used to use my A and B VFOs on the Omni VI for switching bands during the Sprint. I could assign VFO A to 20M and VFO B to 40M on radio 1 and VFO A to 40M and VFO B to 80M on Radio 2. With my K3s, I do not intend to use the subreceiver option ever. Is it not possible to have splits that operate between bands? Paul, k5AF New *MapQuest Local* shows what's happening at your destination. Dining, Movies, Events, News more. Try it out! http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/10075x1211031713x1200669822/aol?redir=http://local.mapquest.com/?ncid=emlcntnew0002 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] AL-811H Amp and K3
I will be picking up an AL-811H soon. I was first licensed in 2001 and I have never had an amp. The 811 requires a 15ms delay, and I noticed that the firmware now supports up to a 20ms delay, so I should be good there. The 811 documentation talks quite a bit about the use of ALC, and the K3 documentation talks quite a bit about NOT using ALC. I'm not sure where to go with this. Anyone using a K3 with an 811? Do I need to use ALC with it? I am trying to get everything ready for the upcoming contests, so timing is becoming an issue. The current manual says to see the website to see if you need the mod kit. The website says to see the mod kit manual, to see if you need to the mod kit. The manual does not say anything about how to determine if you need the mod kit, so I assume that if -12v ALC is needed, the mod needs to be done. Is this correct? I do not see any mention in the K3 documentation about connecting to amps. It looks like the key out is used to key the amp. The manual says up to 200v DC @ 5A. The 811 documentation only mentions 12v, and gets grounded for keying the amp. Do I need any other devices inline for keying the amp? -- David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com K2 - S/N 5982 K3 - S/N 766 Latest Firmware ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 / Text Decode / Scroll Back Buffer
I seem to remember reading something along the way about being able to scroll back through the text decode buffers. I was not able to find anything about it in the documentation, but may have missed it. Is this possible? -- David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 - Text Decode - Buffer
I seem to remember reading something along the way about being able to scroll back through the text decode buffers. I was not able to find anything about it in the documentation, but may have missed it. Is this possible? -- David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Beta firmware rev. 2.46 -- 40 meter PA current reduction
Works great here Wayne. My antenna was a little grumpy on 40m, and didn't tune down as far as on the other bands. From what I hear, that is not unusual. But these changes have greatly improved how it tunes. Thanks! David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com wayne burdick wrote: K3 beta-test firmware revision 2.46 is now available. Details appear below. Be sure to use the latest revision of K3 Utility to do the downloads. Please send any problem reports to [EMAIL PROTECTED] For instructions on how to load beta firmware, please see: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_software.htm 73, Wayne N6KR * * * MCU 2.46 / DSP 1.92, 10-3-2008 * 40 METER PA CURRENT REDUCTION: This revision corrects the low-pass filter configuration used on 40 m. The 10/12 LPF, not the 6 m LPF, is now used in-line with the 40 m LPF. This optimizes return loss, keeping current at the target level at 100 W (about 20 A). Some K3s may have had 40-m current drain increase running rev 2.45. * NOTE ON AM COMPRESSION: Starting with MCU 2.45/DSP 1.92, speech compression has been disabled in AM mode. We hope to create a more effective compressor for AM in a future revision; the original was adding distortion without increasing “punch”. On the other hand, the available AM modulation level has been increased, and we’re better utilizing the mic AGC system in this mode. --- http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] CQWW RTTY - K3 Experience
Ran barefoot here, into a dipole at 40'. 2 stereo cables, a serial cable (for band info) and ran in VOX mode. 420 Qs, 235,296 pts. Only my 3rd RTTY contest. I had never done it at all before getting my K3 in March. David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com G4MKP wrote: I worked the CQWW RTTY contest last weekend. After nearly 30 years of amateur radio operating, I have never had more than a handful of RTTY QSOs so I struggled from the start with accepted contest procedures and also the rig set-up necessary to maximise copy of the wanted signals and the rejection of adjacent signals. I cracked the procedures quite quickly but the copy problems continued for some hours until I cracked the filter set-up. Once I set the high and low cuts to just past the mark/space tones it was so simple and I posted 260k+ points easily. I have the filter shape settings for this type of contesting saved now. Another problem for me was the line input from my pc for the tones was set at ‘3’, anything more and the whole thing over modulated and caused my linear to pop, especially on 80m. Having said how flawlessly the K3 performed, it was complemented by N1MM’s cracking software which does just about everything for you. Whether I was running or SP the only effort required was turning the VFO and clicking the mouse – easy contesting! (Oh dear! Another marketing slogan from me – sorry). I’m looking forward to seeing how this set-up works in the SSB and cw legs over the next couple of months. Cheers, Terry G4MKP ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] New K2 build!
With rework eliminators, you build headers (can be thought of as place holders), and add all needed components for the features you want. Then when you decide to build the features, you just unplug the headers and plug in the new feature. The alternative requires complete disassembly of the K2 along with the addition and removal of various components to add a new feature. This comes into play more if you have a problem, or something breaks. The feature that breaks can be unplugged and the header put back in place. The phrase plug-and-play covers it pretty well. David Wilburn NM4M Michael Harvey wrote: I am prepping to build another K2 and was wondering what rework eliminators to add. I plan to add most options eventually. The K2 I currently use I did not build but the rework eliminators seem like a good investment. Is there a kit including all the eliminators? Thanks! Mike AB0TX K2 #4841___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K-3 Contest agc settings
Actually the AGC works quite well, and it is post AGC mod model. I am merely taking advantage of the fact that the AGC is configurable. I do not have to make the changes, but due to the radio's flexibility, I am able to make the changes, and that helps with weak signals. On the other hand, if there are strong signals near the weak, then I can turn the AGC back towards normal or tolerable levels. At this point signals have the same audio levels regardless of RF levels. By reading Jacks articles, a better understanding of the various settings can be obtained, and the various settings can be implemented to tackle various obstacles. Making the rig more configurable and useful to the operator. David Wilburn K4DGW Charles Harpole wrote: Get Elecraft to fix ur radio so that the AGC works better, early versions out of the box necessitated turning off AGC and riding RF Gain, like the first DXpeditioners did. Those who say K3 AGC is ok either got a good one or got it fixed later. 73 Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 8 Sep 2008 09:35:39 -0400 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K-3 Contest agc settings To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net I have found that I tailor the AGC to the types of signals I am working with. Jacks articles were a big help with understanding what is going on ( cliffton labs ). If I am play with weak DX signals, I tend to keep the AGC levels a bit hard, meaning louder. Low signals low, high signals high. I have also used this, and RF gain together in a contest, to dig weaker signals out between the big guns. When in the midst of lots of big guns, I have to flatten the signals out so that my ears are not shorted out by the big signals coming in. David Wilburn K4DGW H Kohl wrote: Ed If I understand what I think you said, the agc settings are dependant on: Pre-amp on/off and / or Attenuator on/off The DSP filter width Which 1st IF filter is active and . the AGC SLP and THR settings are, for the most part a well kept secret and not to be shared. However mine are SLP= 8 and THR= 4 and, to me, it sounds pretty close to the K2. I don't use NR much on CW because of what it appears to do to the received CW signals. This is with MCU 2.34 and DSP 1.81, which may affect how those two settings are set. If SLP= 8 and THR= 4 are bad settings, please tell me why. 73 Hank K8DD - Original Message - From: Ed Muns To: 'Mike Kasrich' Cc: 'Elecraft' Sent: Sunday, September 07, 2008 11:51 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K-3 Contest agc settings If you are a contester please respond off list. I chose to reply to the list because this is a topic of interest to many, whether contesting or not. What AGC settings are you using? In sprint last night I used the K-3 (first real contest) and I was less than thrilled with rx performance. Close by stations seemed to overload the rx. Something I didnt have with my MKV with the inrad mods and filters. Been fiddling with the settings but obviously dont have it right. All my operating is contesting and I've used two K3s for a year now. At home, there are several local contesters just a few miles line-of-sight off the back lobes of my Yagis. At 1.5 KW they saturate my S-meters. Still, they are unnoticeable when outside my filters and I'm usually run the default AGC settings. Most people have reported just the opposite comparison between the MKV and K3, i.e., they prefer the K3 RX in contest or crowded band conditions with strong signals nearby. The PREamp has more impact on RX overload than the AGC in most cases. On the low bands, you may even need to engage the ATTenuator. Don't make the AGC do all the work by slamming it with too much signal strength. Certainly, you can optimize the AGC for different conditions by changing the threshold and slope. For many it is a matter of personal preference more than an absolute correct setting. You will probably want higher thresholds on the lower bands due to the noise level. The slope is a trade-off between reducing gain for strong signals and still having discrimination between different signal strengths. If you keep the front-end tamed down with appropriate PRE and ATT engagements, then you will find the AGC gives you fine control over the range of signal strengths rather than relying on it alone for dealing with the very strong signals. filters in rig 2.8, 1.8 and 250 Remember your 250 filter is really 370 Hz at the -6 dB points, so you might have it engage at DSP bandwidth of 350 or 300 Hz. But even at 350, the cascade effect will produce an overall bandwidth of less than 300 Hz, which is a bit narrow for CW contesting, IMO. At DSP WIDTHs of 400-500 Hz, your roofing filter will be the 1.8 kHz, if you have it configured normally, so that doesn't give you IMD protection for the DSP with very strong signals located between your DSP and crystal filter widths. (I should point out that some K3 ops don't subscribe to the K3 design that deploys
Re: [Elecraft] Ultimatic
Awesome. That is good enough for me. It will get here, when it gets here. Thanks. David Wilburn K4DGW l David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: Just for those that are following this thread, Wayne said This is on my firmware list, but I can't put a date on it. Quite a list of requests/improvements now! So he's aware of our wish and has sad he will do it sometime. I think we all understand about his priorities. I don't see the point of us continually harping on, we just have to wait, Wayne said Morse don't come easy, it's just a game of give and take ! HiHi 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Topics
During my short time with the list (K2 5982 / K3 766) it has been a technical list. These folks are not your average hams. They will dig into a piece of equipment and understand what makes it tick. It is an amazing think tank of information that I enjoy reading everyday. That being said, I do have separate folders for K3, K2, Elecraft (each with a Keepers sub folder). All Elecraft email ends up in one of those folders. I use Thunderbird, and it has a search function in the corner much like google. I plug in a keyword in the subject line of a thread that I want to read, and boom. I have all the emails, sorted by date. And only that thread. I may read some of it, all of it, or throw the whole thing away (in my case, anything about microphones or SSB). I clear the search function, all of the threads are back. But that is just me. And that is what is so special about this list. Lots of great info, and a delete key too. What more can you ask for? Ok, they got the Mojo too! David Wilburn K4DGW Monty Shultes wrote: I get the daily digest. I am switching to individual posts because I find myself reading fewer posts. The ones I skip are: a) Ones that should go to Elecraft Support/Sales/Parts b) Ones that relate to a topic fully covered in the manual c) Ones that are covered on the Elecraft website d) Details of measurements. I would like to have access to these via the web e) Ones that are primarily a discussion of third party equipment/software. Websites for such are usually very good. I do not mind skipping these posts, but the risk of missing something interesting grows as the volume of uninteresting things grows. Monty, K2DLJ K3 #699 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Where have all the K2s Gone?
Still have K2, 5982 on the table. Need to get back and play with it. I want to setup a vertical loop as a second antenna, so I can run both the K2 and K3 at the same time. But first I need to build a new launcher. Wrist-rocket bit the dust. Picked up a o'scope earlier in the summer, and want to go back and do some poking and prodding with the K2. But it has been at least 20 years since I had RF and o'scopes connected, and the equipment used to do that was real expensive. I need to sort out how I am going to do that. But all in due time. David Wilburn K4DGW Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: And the K1s and KX1s? I agree with those who advocate keeping threads on list, since there are always more interested people out there with the same question or who may not have thought to ask but for whom the answer is of interest. Toward that end, there are a lot of on-going threads here, mostly about features for competitive DX-ing or contesting with a K3. Frankly, I miss the solder-jockeys who were poking around inside their K1s, K2s, KX1s and the intrepid souls trying out VHF/UHF with an XV. Often they were concerned with peripheral questions such as stringing up an antenna, soldering, or wondering how to modify their rig to provide some wanted feature, or restoring operation after making a cloud of smoke. Sure, there was the occasional contest thread, usually about the QRP sprints, fox hunts and other low-key events. Have they all bought K3s? I doubt it. If not, where are they? If we were to subtract the current K3 threads, it seems like the list activity for all other products must have dropped by at least 90% over that of a year or so ago. Ron AC7AC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K-3 Contest agc settings
I have found that I tailor the AGC to the types of signals I am working with. Jacks articles were a big help with understanding what is going on ( cliffton labs ). If I am play with weak DX signals, I tend to keep the AGC levels a bit hard, meaning louder. Low signals low, high signals high. I have also used this, and RF gain together in a contest, to dig weaker signals out between the big guns. When in the midst of lots of big guns, I have to flatten the signals out so that my ears are not shorted out by the big signals coming in. David Wilburn K4DGW H Kohl wrote: Ed If I understand what I think you said, the agc settings are dependant on: Pre-amp on/off and / or Attenuator on/off The DSP filter width Which 1st IF filter is active and . the AGC SLP and THR settings are, for the most part a well kept secret and not to be shared. However mine are SLP= 8 and THR= 4 and, to me, it sounds pretty close to the K2. I don't use NR much on CW because of what it appears to do to the received CW signals. This is with MCU 2.34 and DSP 1.81, which may affect how those two settings are set. If SLP= 8 and THR= 4 are bad settings, please tell me why. 73HankK8DD - Original Message - From: Ed Muns [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: 'Mike Kasrich' [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: 'Elecraft' elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Sunday, September 07, 2008 11:51 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K-3 Contest agc settings If you are a contester please respond off list. I chose to reply to the list because this is a topic of interest to many, whether contesting or not. What AGC settings are you using? In sprint last night I used the K-3 (first real contest) and I was less than thrilled with rx performance. Close by stations seemed to overload the rx. Something I didnt have with my MKV with the inrad mods and filters. Been fiddling with the settings but obviously dont have it right. All my operating is contesting and I've used two K3s for a year now. At home, there are several local contesters just a few miles line-of-sight off the back lobes of my Yagis. At 1.5 KW they saturate my S-meters. Still, they are unnoticeable when outside my filters and I'm usually run the default AGC settings. Most people have reported just the opposite comparison between the MKV and K3, i.e., they prefer the K3 RX in contest or crowded band conditions with strong signals nearby. The PREamp has more impact on RX overload than the AGC in most cases. On the low bands, you may even need to engage the ATTenuator. Don't make the AGC do all the work by slamming it with too much signal strength. Certainly, you can optimize the AGC for different conditions by changing the threshold and slope. For many it is a matter of personal preference more than an absolute correct setting. You will probably want higher thresholds on the lower bands due to the noise level. The slope is a trade-off between reducing gain for strong signals and still having discrimination between different signal strengths. If you keep the front-end tamed down with appropriate PRE and ATT engagements, then you will find the AGC gives you fine control over the range of signal strengths rather than relying on it alone for dealing with the very strong signals. filters in rig 2.8, 1.8 and 250 Remember your 250 filter is really 370 Hz at the -6 dB points, so you might have it engage at DSP bandwidth of 350 or 300 Hz. But even at 350, the cascade effect will produce an overall bandwidth of less than 300 Hz, which is a bit narrow for CW contesting, IMO. At DSP WIDTHs of 400-500 Hz, your roofing filter will be the 1.8 kHz, if you have it configured normally, so that doesn't give you IMD protection for the DSP with very strong signals located between your DSP and crystal filter widths. (I should point out that some K3 ops don't subscribe to the K3 design that deploys the crystal filters as roofing filters that are set wider than the DSP WIDTHs to protect the DSP. Instead they prefer the passband shape of the crystal filter and effectively eliminate the DSP filter by configuring their K3 filtering to have the crystal filter engage at DSP bandwidths GREATER than the crystal filter. Until the DSP WIDTH is reduced to well within the crystal filter bandwidth, the crystal filter is dominating the passband shape and filtering. Of course, the DSP will still provide steeper skirts at a point well below the passband.) 73, Ed - W0YK P.S. Thanks for the Sprint Qs! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com Make more on your investments with qualified asset management. Click now
Re: [Elecraft] Ultimatic
I would definitely like to give it a try on my Elecraft Hex Key. I have not learned any of the squeeze techniques, so I guess now is the time. But I would like to see all the keyer equipment internal to the K3. It would be nice to know if this is something they might be able to implement at some point in firmware. David Wilburn K4DGW Don Wilhelm wrote: Charles, With a single lever paddle you will not notice any difference - Ultimatic, Iambic A or Iambic B all will do the same actions with a single lever. It is only with dual paddles that Ultimatic will make a difference. 73, Don W3FPR Charles wrote: I would like Ultimatic mode implemented if possible. I want to try it with my Kent single lever paddle. TIA ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Possible solution for Spot frustrations
Just an idea of something that is working well for me, YMMV. I have heard folks frustrated with the Spot volumes and such. What I have started doing is keeping my setting a bit lower, so that I can switch between headphone and speaker without issue. Then when I hit spot, I just back down the RF gain. 9 times out of 10, I hit a magic spot where I can hear the station, and the spot is louder. I turn gain back up, can barely hear spot, and hit the spot button to get rid of it. -- David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Software
I have loaded every new / beta release since I received the rig in March. The firmware has never impacted how I operate. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Tom Wylie wrote: I built my K3 about 2 months ago and have now made a couple of thousand QSOs with it and am very satisfied. Question: Should I upload the latest software? What is the latest NON BETA version that is stable and works? What is the latest BETA version and should I go for it? What improvements/differences can I expect? 73 de Tom GM4FDM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 filters
The narrowest filter for SSB is the 1.8khz filter. I have the 2.7, 1.8, 1k, and 400 hz, and it has worked well for my needs. The 1.8 has been the least useful. The 1k and 400 are very handy for CW and RTTY. I have not tried the 250 hz 8 pole, but it is only a bit narrower than the 400 hz. You can check out the plots here. http://www.elecraft.com/K3/K3_8_pole_plots.htm David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Scott McDowell wrote: I have a k3/100 ordered and am trying to decide on filters. I would like the 250 hz 8 pole filter for cw. Should I also get the 400 hz filter for ssb. Scott N5SM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 LOGGING SOFTWARE
Use N3FJP ACLOG without issue. In the past I used some of his individual contesting software. Now I use N1MM and sometimes MMTTY. Only have an issue with MMTTY, that is more likely me needing to know where to change a setting. All else has worked fine. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html alex wrote: Many of use our rigs with contest software. Here are some operating experiences which may be helpful: Please report your own expereinces with other software, so that we will not have to reinvent the wheels!!! Using K3 with K1EA CT-DOS v 10.03: the following worked FB Plain vanilla pc machine running either WIN98se or 6.22 DOS. K1EA CT-DOS V 10.03, set COMTSR2 -b4800 active, choose TS940 as transceiver and in ct setup, comport2 = radio1, 4800baud. Bandmap, band changes-from the K3 from CT all worked. Did not check split freq operations. lpt2 as keying interface with CT paralell port circuit worked fb NOTE: I had no tnc and cannot vouch for point es shoot, announcements etc Using CTWin Windows op version of K1EA CTWIN: PC: Dell laptop 840c, xp pro, with Prolific USB-Comport device as comport3. Baud rate 4800 Transceiver TS940, setup: comport3 = radio1, 4800 baud rate LPT2 as keying input RESULTS: CTWIN worked fb EXCEPT entering freq on ctwin did not change the K3 frequency but changing the freq on the K3 registered fb on ctwin. Again no experience with a tnc, spot annoucements etc. I do not know how to set up CTWIN for TELENET operations. Using ctWIN IN WINDOWS XPPRO, K1EA CTWIN PC: Dell840c laptop, Prolific USB-Comport device AND LP-Bridge software from Telepostinc.com setting LP-Bridge Virtual Comport 1 with 1A option checked K3 baudrate set at 38400 baud. LPT2 as keying input toctwin. RESULTS: CTWin worked fb, could set K3 freq from ctwin, all else as above. This technique of using a Virtual COMPORT via LP-BRidge might be one method of using both the LP-PAN panadapter AND a logging/contest program simultaneously. NOTE there are 3 possible VIRTUAL COMPORTS available on LP-Bridge software. Others might relate their expereinces with other loggin/contest software as well alex w2ox alex w2ox at 38400 and ctwin setup comport1 =radio1, baudrate 38400, tranceiver TS940 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] New K2 now!
Your message reminds me of an important point. Set aside a certain amount of time to work on the rig. For most people, more than 2 or 3 hours, and it is easy to get frustrated or make a mistake. This is an important piece. If you are getting tired or frustrated, pack your stuff up and walk away. In the craft section of the department store, I picked up containers, with lids, that had a bunch of little compartments. I sorted my caps (lots of caps) into one of this, and resistors and other hardware into another. All of the ESD sensitive items (chips, diodes and such) stayed in their ESD bags. This allowed me to 'close up shop' so to speak. You can start this sorting and setup now. Even reading through the manual. All these little items pay big dividends latter on. 73 es look forward to catching you a little further down the log. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net edward kacura wrote: Thanks to all of you for the encouragement and advice on building my new K2,I feel better about it already!This will take a while thou,I can't get stated right away.Too much coming up in the next two weeks,a little at a time.Thanks once more,I know I made the right choice to go with the kit now!73 de Ed,N7EDK--K2 s/n 6576. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] v2.33 Beta bug at SSB-Filter shift?
Are you reloading the MCU and the DSP? David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html DC1RS wrote: When use the filter shift at either USB or LSB and return it to center frequency it says FC *0.03, sometimes *0.04, *0.05 and *0.40. All other positions are indicated correct and the received audio also sounds ok at center position. I reloaded the firmware v2.33 again, still the same problem. Is there anyone with the same problem? 73 de Roland, DC1RS ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Re: [K3] Wide CW RX issue in 2.32 firmware
Isn't that what conference calls are for??? ;) Keep up the great work Mojo Makers ! David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Fred Jensen wrote: wayne burdick wrote: I just confirmed this, Leigh, and will have a corrected version in the morning. Testing tonight. ... and when does he sleep? 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2008 Cal QSO Party 4-5 Oct 08 - www.cqp.org ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] W8JI review on eHam
They don't call it MoJo for nothing... ;) David Wilburn K4DGW Bruce McLaughlin wrote: I personally know Tom. He used to live within 15 miles from me before he moved to Georgia. He is an extremely knowledge person. I have NEVER known Tom to flat out rave about any radio equipment. I think his review of the K3 really means something because he always tells it like it is. The K3 is relatively small and rather innocuous looking. But in this case appearances are very deceptive. If your main interest is a large box with lots of flashing lights, maybe the K3 is not for you. I have some of those large boxes in the shack. But if you want superior performance and a company which is truly interested in making it the very best it can be, the K3 is for you. As Tom said, the K3 is amazing. If I worked for some of the other companies, I would be afraid . . . very afraid. I don't know how Elecraft can do all this with only 24 people but I suspect that may be part of the reason why it is amazing. The owners are very close to their customers. Bruce - W8FU -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Bill Tippett Sent: Tuesday, August 26, 2008 11:12 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] W8JI review on eHam http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/6673 Elecraft is amazing! (I almost hate to write this review. I'd like to be the only person in the world with a K3.) I like raw performance. I like working weak DX stations on low bands. I like contests. Because I have guest ops that aren't always accustomed to the radios I have, the radio has to be easy to use. With contacts coming three or four a minute for hours on end, with over a dozen antennas to pick, the radio can't be difficult to use or distracting. It also has to be top notch. This is a demanding situation with large antennas in a very quiet location. The location and large antennas demand uncompromised receiver and transmitter performance. Some top-of-the-line radios selling for three times the price of the K3 only lasted a few days here. Some have had serious design problems like so-called diversity that does not actually phase lock. Some only offer a crummy sub-receiver that isn't even worthy of being called second rate. By sub they must mean sub-standard. Some have transmitter keying issues or unreasonable transmitter IM on SSB, many have receiver close-spaced strong signal handling issues. I purchased one brand new top-of-the-line high-dollar radio, assured by the sales people it was the best radio ever, and the thing was not as good as my 15 year old FT-1000D in several different ways. I thought I was destined to spend my life going back to the FT1000 and heavily modified solid state mixer and IF section diversity R4C's. Enter the K3. I measured around -35 to -38 dB SSB transmitter IM3, better than my other radios. The transmitter is flawlessly clean on CW also. The raw receiver performance on HF is second to none. It is significantly better than radios costing three times as much as a loaded K3. The K3 is an incredibly easy to use radio, and it is very simple to upgrade firmware. Just a couple mouse clicks and the new firmware is located on their website and loaded into the radio. Elecraft is also super fast in updating and improving firmware, their response to suggestions is like nothing I have ever experienced. I didn't like the way a few controls functioned in diversity mode. The knobs required a little more operator attention than I liked. Unlike other companies, when I e-mailed Elecraft they listened and agreed. Within a week a firmware upgrade corrected the difficulties. Now it is smooth as silk. Can you imagine any other radio manufacturer in the world responding like that? It's unheard of today! I'm going to make a prediction. Within a few years all the successful serious contesting stations and DX chasers will have K3's. This is the first time I've bought a radio and not been disappointed. As a matter of fact, I'm ecstatic about the K3 performance and Elecraft's service. I've waited almost 20 years for the next major improvement in radios, and this is it. Not only is the radio great, the service and support exceeds all reasonable expectations. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com Internal Virus Database is out of date. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.138 / Virus Database: 270.6.7/1629 - Release Date: 8/23/2008 1:16 PM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net
Re: [Elecraft] New K2 now!
Ditto what Bruce said. I purchased my K2 to get the radio that fit my needs. I did not focus on the building. But it turned out to be much more fun than expected. The directions are very straight forward. Do your inventories, and just start working your way through the parts. Before you know it, the front panel and control board will be together. Then you start on he RF board. The majority of it is just putting the right part in the right place, and soldering it well. Once you start doing some checks, you will really feel a sense of accomplishment. A great radio, and you learn something too. Both about the equipment and yourself. It doesn't get much better than that. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) K2 S/N 5982 K3 S/N 766 edward kacura wrote: Good morning,some of you may remember I bought a used bare bones K2 on ebay about two weeks ago-s/n 5801.It was completely destroyed,according to FedEx!Well,after much thought and consideration,I decided to go the kit route! I received my new K2 yesterday-s/n 6576 from Elecraft! Iam no electrical or electronics engineer,I built some kits as youngster,and a few more the last few years(very simple and basic).I can solder,and read directions,so I figure that's half the battle in building the K2!It looks a little overwhelming at this point,but I think Iam ready to tackle this BIG project!Hopefully,I won't run into any problems,but I know where to turn if I do.I'll let everyone know when its up and running.73 de Ed N7EDK Marana,AZ. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Beta Firmware, Revision 2.31 E 00000C ERR DSE
Same firmware here. Set pitch to 630 Width to .80 Varied shift from lowest setting to highest without issues. There were two loads that needed to be added for this firmware. Did you add the DSP as well as the MCU? David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Christopher Kovacs wrote: Hi all, I just upgraded to the latest beta. Set pitch to 630 and then varied the WIDTH and SHIFT. Set the WIDTH for 0.80 then when shifting passed FC 0.35, the receiver dies with an error E 0C ERR DSE. It doesn't appear to matter what the pitch tone is set. After the error occurs, you must change the SHIFT setting 0.35 and power off and on. Chris W0ANM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Beta Firmware, Revision 2.31 E 00000C ERR DSE
Awesome, glad to hear it is up and running. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com Christopher Kovacs wrote: Looks like it was my mistake I could have swore that the DSP was being loaded the first time. I went back to the previous firmware and then reloaded the latest beta firmware making sure that I send all. It's good now. Chris w0anm David Wilburn wrote: Same firmware here. Set pitch to 630 Width to .80 Varied shift from lowest setting to highest without issues. There were two loads that needed to be added for this firmware. Did you add the DSP as well as the MCU? David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Christopher Kovacs wrote: Hi all, I just upgraded to the latest beta. Set pitch to 630 and then varied the WIDTH and SHIFT. Set the WIDTH for 0.80 then when shifting passed FC 0.35, the receiver dies with an error E 0C ERR DSE. It doesn't appear to matter what the pitch tone is set. After the error occurs, you must change the SHIFT setting 0.35 and power off and on. Chris W0ANM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K2 K3: PowerMate Knob Utility
How are all the features accessed from a knob? I had assumed there would be some buttons. David Wilburn K4DGW Mike McLendon wrote: Hello! If you are interested in testing and providing feedback on pre-release software, you have a Griffin Technology PowerMate knob, and a PC running Windows XP connected to your K2 / K3 serial port, then read on. I do not have a K2, and thus support is limited, but I would be interested in hearing from any K2 testers. Responding to requests to provide a K2/K3-specific driver and utility to permit use of the Powermate, I developed a Windows application, EZSet3, that allows the user to program K2/K3 commands into the PowerMate knob's TAP, HOLD, ROTATE CCW, ROTATE CW movements. EZSet3 is released under a 'no fee' GNU GPL license. The application features an practically unlimited storage for the user's favorite commands, 10 knob function program access buttons and operation in the background so other programs can run. In fact, simultaneous operation of the PowerMate with a panadaptor, logging program, Elecraft KRC2 and SteppIR has been tested. Here is the Griffin site if you are curious about the PowerMate: http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/powermate EZSet3 application installation files can be downloaded here: http://www.mclendon.info/files/SetupEZSet3.zip I have no affiliation with Elecraft or Griffin other than that of customer. Please email all questions and comments regarding installation and use to mike (at) mclendon (dot) info and do NOT use the Elecraft reflector. 73 - Mike, KE4U ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - first impressions
Maybe that is the K4. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Greg - AB7R wrote: I really think the K3 is a great rig and THE rig to have. That said, I would LOVE the k3 radio packaged in a larger enclosure...not quite as large as the 7800 though. With a built-in display with split screen for main and sub receivers and click tune with a USB mouse. More dedicated buttons and knobs...though some stuff really needs to stay in a menu. A row of 10 dedicated PF buttons that do not share double duty with other functionsA built-in SO2R interface with a dedicated connections for another K3 as the second radio so there only needs to be one connection to a computer. Multiple interface options (ethernet, USB, and serial). The USB can also carry the audio signals to the computer eliminating more cables2M transverter optionand built-in KRC2 type of interface for antenna/filter switching. With what Elecraft has been able to do with the K3 they should be able to package this with allot of room to spare. I don't think the radio portion would need to change at all. - 73, Greg - AB7R Whidbey Island WA NA-065 On Tue Aug 26 7:46 , David F. Reed sent: I received my K3 yesterday, after ordering in late October last year (waiting primarily to have it shipped with 2nd RX, pre-built). After having it on the bench for most of the last 24 hours and using it in a side by side comparison with my IC-7800, I thought I would pass on my first impressions. I am both amazed and pleased that Elecraft have continued to pack and amazing radio into the size and weight of the package. I find it to perform as well or better than my IC-7800 in many areas. If I had to choose between getting two fully loaded K3s or a 7800, hands down, Elecraft wins. There are however a couple of things I like better about the IC-7800: 1. The spectrum scope and display, with video output. 2. The availability of many features without menus; i.e. lots of knobs and switches. 3. The built in power supply and 200 watts. 4. Rack mountable (19 rack panel) All of those seem tied to the battleship construction and hernia inducing weight of the 7800; of these, the spectrum scope is the most important to me, so I am looking into the LP-Pan as a possible solution. I have a lot more learning to do, to be able to use it more effectively without constantly referring back to the manual, but so far, an amazing radio. I am waiting for the MARS mod software to try it out there, and will start exploring how it does in the sound card digital modes early this week. Well worth the wait; great job Elecraft! I have not figured out if it does this, but I think a worthwhile feature would be to disconnect the antenna automatically on power down (my PW-1 does this) as a small measure of protection. 73 de Dave, W5SV / NNN0SLA ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 competition from Icom?
If you notice, the USB port is fixed there. The whole communications interface area of the K3 can be update, modified, and changed as the rig and firmware grows. Elecraft chose the RS232, as a port that so many folks have used in the past. If you listen to hams (like on this list) think about how many are resistant to change. If they had come out with USB and no serial there would have been a cry from the masses of DOS/Win95/OS2/WinME/Win98 users that they could not use their serial ports. Don't get me wrong, I find USB/Serial adapters annoying, but mine has worked great. I get the Belkin ones that Staples sells, and everything has worked fine for me. I would rather have a USB interface, and possibly an Ethernet interface. But I am very happy to know that I have a rig that is getting firmware updates, and the hardware was developed in such a way, that it has the ability to grow and change, as the technology does. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Matt Patterson wrote: If your PC has a open PCI slot there are high speed serial cards still available. Think I paid $26 for the last one I purchased. 73 Matt W5LL On Mon, 2008-08-25 at 07:24 -0500, R. Kevin Stover wrote: -BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE- Hash: SHA1 DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL wrote: http://www.ab4oj.com/icom/ic7600/main.html not in my opinion! de Doug KR2Q - -- Me neither but they did do something Elecraft had the chance to do and didn't. USB ports for rig control. I've always considered a Serial to USB adapter as a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. Whether it works or not depends entirely on the chip set used and the quality of the driver. Elecraft should have used USB ports. You can't buy a desktop motherboard by any respected manufacturer that includes a serial port. The LGA 775 board I'm looking at for an upgrade has zero serial ports but 8 on the mobo backplane and you can add four more to the front or back of the case with cables and unused motherboard USB headers. It might be a trivial redesign of the KIO3 but I'm sure it's down the list if at all. R. Kevin Stover, ACØH -BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE- Version: GnuPG v1.4.7 (MingW32) Comment: Using GnuPG with Mozilla - http://enigmail.mozdev.org iD8DBQFIsqSO11jxjloa2wsRAhlYAKCJuH3yC61SWoDVuOa7CN5UW/t9mgCePddV mj7zMmXYzAXQJxI0YUNlDhM= =FR1Z -END PGP SIGNATURE- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.138 / Virus Database: 270.6.7/1631 - Release Date: 8/24/2008 12:15 PM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 competition from Icom?
Good point. I am often amazed with concerns about birdies. I have several networks, and multiple computers and other equipment within feet of the K3. I have birdies all over the place. But none of them have gotten in the way when I was operating. But fully understand many do not have any of this in the shack. David Wilburn K4DGW www.k4dgw.com www.k4rc.net Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (K4RC) My Current LOTW/DXCC/WAS status www.k4dgw.com/WAS.DXCC.info.html Brett Howard wrote: But with what we have (an RS232 port) and nicely isolated line level in/outs you can have all of that capability and you don't have all of that noise generating equipment inside the box with your sub microvolt sensitive receiver. Its not a LOT better but its definitely the way I prefer it On Mon, Aug 25, 2008 at 2:02 PM, Julian, G4ILO [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ken N9VV-2 wrote: Hi David, it looks like you can even find SERIAL --- Ethernet adapters http://www.industrialethernet.com/net232-dte.html de Ken N9VV If I was asked to vote for an alternative interface I'd vote for Ethernet. But in that case I'd also like to have streaming audio in and out of it. Being able to remote control a radio is not a lot of use unless you can get audio in and out as well, and if you need a computer to handle that then you might as well use it also to handle the CAT commands. - Julian, G4ILO. K2 #392 K3 #222. http://www.g4ilo.com/ G4ILO's Shack http://www.ham-directory.com/ Ham Directoryhttp://www.g4ilo.com/kcomm.html KComm for Elecraft K2 and K3 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-competition-from-Icom--tp781209p782470.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Software Upgrades
I have upgraded to every firmware beta and never had a problem. David Wilburn K4DGW BOB PHILBROOK wrote: After reading countless reflector comments about firmware upgrades and releases, it appears to me that in many instances such so called upgrades are two steps forward and one in reverse. You know the drill, fix this problem, add a new feature, and then find that something that worked in previous versions does not function as expected and now demands a fix and another firmware version. Personally, I would like to see fewer firmware releases and more time spent vetting firmware before it is released. Firmware upgrades should be two steps forward -- period! The rush to add new features and fix bugs in firmware appears to me to be too rushed to be efficient and effective. Tell me fellows, why the rush? Bob, K9PAG ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] balanced tuner
A very interesting read, I have a couple of questions about practical considerations. The number one rule I look at all antennas with, is that all antennas are a compromise. Let me know if I am getting off on the wrong foot here. I like ladder line fed to various antennas (Horiz. Loops, Vert. Loops, Doublets and such) but if I have more than one antenna, then I have multiple sets of 450 ohm twin lead coming to the house. As I understand things, I need to keep the ladder line away from metal as much as I can. I have not found a way to safety ground ladder line and run it into the house. After taking a lightning strike last year, I have no wish to have ladder line and / or balun's inside the house. *Is there a way to properly ground that ladder line, and then run it into the house? *If there is a practical way, I assume one uses a plastic box or no box at all? Based on all of these practical considerations, I am left with the following current configuration. K3/KAT3 - Balun (4:1) === Ladder Line === Doublet (In this case a http://www.k1jek.com/ 200' antenna) The coax is about 50' long (to get to the shack in the house, I would love to get this shorter, working on that) and the 450 ohm ladder line is about 50' long. Configuration I am working towards; K3/KAT3 - RF Switch - Coax (trying to get this down to about 10') to box mounted on side of house (metal) - Lightning arrestors tied to good ground rods - short coax to balun mounted beside house - 450 ohm ladder line to antenna. Would like to have a vertical loop and dipole or horizontal loop, fed with ladder line. The antenna I have now, gets out very well, and tunes pretty well from 160m - 6m. Some bands like 40m, it does not tune as well, but has performed well. I have heard very little on 6m, but did work Portugal. The 40m issue is supposed to be helped by reducing the length of coax, and lengthening the ladder line. That makes sense, to reduce the resistive losses in the coax. Understanding that this is a low dipole (about 40 - 50 feet) I'm wondering if changes to the configuration would help the antenna's ability to hear. I'm not sure it hears as well as it could. Options to improve antenna, and possibly receive *Get current antenna higher. With the trees that I have to use, this could only be about 10'. *Drop ends of antenna to 10', and raise center higher using a different tree. This has possibilities of getting the center higher than 60'. I am not sure this would help receive, but it is an option. *Go to a different balun setup 1:1 versus 4:1. *Not sure of a practical way to get multiple ladder lines safety grounded and into the house. So I do not know how to get away from having a balun. Are there other practical options I am missing here? Yes, I would like to have a short tower and a multi-band cubical quad. Maybe at some point in the future, but not anytime soon. David Wilburn K4DGW Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: Also, the load has a huge effect on balance. Few wire antennas for HF offer decently balanced loads. Unless the wires are literally wavelengths (usually hundreds of feet) from the earth and other objects, those objects will have a strong effect on the currents on each side of the antenna. The effect is greatest near the ends of the wires, where they typically come close to supports, trees, houses, etc. Unless both ends have identical surroundings, the antenna, and so the currents in the feedline, are unbalanced. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- The question is, what is good enough? To minimize radiation from an open wire tuned feeder requires, I believe, that the currents in the two wires to be equal in magnitude and have a phase difference of 180 degrees at the feedpoint of the feedline. Feeding a slanted dipole, which is certainly an unbalanced antenna, is it practical to build a 1:1 balun on a ferrite core (core type choice?) that, when placed on the output of an unbalanced tuner, is good enough to force the desired currents from 40m thru 10m without excesive losses? Using an LC inductively coupled balanced tuner on such an unbalanced antenna will not produce the desired results--deliberately unbalancing the LC tuner by offsetting the taps on the coil will sometimes get close for me. 73 Paul W5DM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http
Re: [Elecraft] VFO indepence
This is the most frustrating issue I have experienced with the K3. I really enjoy the rig, and this is the only nit I have experienced. I would like to be able to (during contests) pop over to other bands, listen for a moment and pop back. But this is not available at this time. The release notes mention the following: TUNING EITHER VFO ACROSS MULTIPLE BANDS now brings the other VFO along with it, so that both VFOs will always be on the same band. This eliminates the problem of bands getting out of sequence due to wide tuning excursions. (Later, we’ll allow the subreceiver to be on a different band from main if CONFIG:VFO IND is enabled.) Tech support has indicated that this _may_ be something that is addressed in a future firmware release. Time will tell. For now, I am going to try and get a second antenna setup, and get the K2 back online. Then I can use it as a second receiver. My frustration was really notched up when I was able to split the VFO's on a 706MIIG in the vehicle, but cannot do it on the K3. For now, I continue to enjoy the awesome radio, and wait to see what happens. David Wilburn K4DGW Eric wrote: Hi, I'm not able to force CONFIG:VFO IND to yes. When I try, the LCD shows: NO SUB, the KRX3 is working fine It's supposed to be possible to set the sub receiver to a different band from the main this way, but I can't get it to work. Any ideas? vy 73 Eric PA3CEV K2 960 K3 122 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] KX1#3064newguy
I haven't built the KX1, but with the K2, it seemed so overwhelming at first. All these parts and bags everywhere. Then you started assembly, and pieces started filling up the board. All of a sudden you realize how many bags are empty, and how full the boards are. Good luck and have fun. Sounds like you are off to a great start. David Wilburn K4DGW ve6hal wrote: I have received kit 3064 and inventoried it with only a couple pieces missing. that is amazing since they are so small and numerous. Richard got back to me instantly, and said they are on the way. If only all business was like that! I have never built a kit of any kind, nor done fine soldering. I browsed through all you guy's emails that were relevant to the KX1 and bought a bunch of tools and such on your many recommendations. anti-esd mat and strap. 30 watt iron, pliers, magnifiers, etc. A clamp that may not have been necessary, I find it easier to do on the mat. So far I have made it to page 16 and installed 8 resistors. Woohoo. They look ok and trimmed nicely. Then the magnifier started to give me a headache, or the concentration did. anyhoo, It all looked very intimidating at first, So small! But I will try to do it right, with your help. Thanks in advance for answering any odd questions I may have, this looks like a group of fine, intelligent people, who are serious about what they do. Paul VE6HAL ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Re: [K3] VFO's A/B switching between bands
Amazing what you remember right after hitting the send button. Like putting K3 in the subject. David Wilburn K4DGW David Wilburn wrote: Is it possible to set VFO A to one band, and VFO B to a second band? I recall some discussion about this in the past, but do not remember if it was on a tudo list, or if it will be a limitation. As an example, place VFO A on the 20m band CW mode, and VFO B at a location on the 40m band CW mode. I have done this with other rigs, is there a menu setting I am missing, or a limitation of the rig? I just did a couple of quick searches through the documentation, but I did not see a reference to it. I am using the 2.20 firmware. I see that it is supported with the sub-receiver. It is handy during a contest to set VFO B to another band, and bounce there periodically to check activity / propagation, while CQ'ing. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
