Re: [Elecraft] Firmware download

2023-01-02 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bill, When you click "Copy New Files from Elecraft" that is just what it does.  So by the time you could check the directory, it was already there. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/2/2023 4:19 PM, Bill Lederer wrote: I'm using the "Elecraft K3 Utility v1.19.9.6". Clicking on the "Copy New FIles from

Re: [Elecraft] Tightening K2/100 PA device screws

2022-12-27 Thread Don Wilhelm
Eric, You will need a #1 Phillips screwdriver. Remove the 2 black screws just to the rear of the front panel, Then the 2 screws on the upper part of the rear panel. There is one screw on each side panel near the top center. Now you should be able to remove the KPA100 from the base K2. Place it

Re: [Elecraft] KUSB CABLE

2022-12-11 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave, Get one with the FTDI chipset and you should be OK.  There are others, but do not buy one with the Prolific chipset. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/11/2022 5:27 PM, dave arruzza via Elecraft wrote: To all: I believe my KUSB cable has gone bad due to a power failure Since the power failure a red

Re: [Elecraft] KAT100 stopped working

2022-12-04 Thread Don Wilhelm
Hans, First of all, check to see if you have power to the KAT100 - you should have 12 volts on both ends of RFC2. If that is correct, check to be certain there is +5 volts at pin 2 of U2, U3 and U4. If all is well so far, suspect that either the MCU (U1) or U2, U3 and U4 have failed. 73,

Re: [Elecraft] K2 with narrow USB transmit audio

2022-11-06 Thread Don Wilhelm
, so would the same BFO frequency for the receiver affect the transmitter? Best, Chris KM1B On Sun, Nov 6, 2022 at 1:56 PM Don Wilhelm wrote: Chris, That condition is normally the result of improper alignment of the BFO frequencies for the upper sideband. There should

Re: [Elecraft] K2 with narrow USB transmit audio

2022-11-06 Thread Don Wilhelm
Chris, That condition is normally the result of improper alignment of the BFO frequencies for the upper sideband. There should be no difference is width for LSB and USB that could be blamed on a part. Use an audio spectrum analyzer (Spectrogram for instance) for best results when aligning

Re: [Elecraft] Recommendation for Microphone for K3s?

2022-11-01 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bernie, I think Heil microphones are overpriced, but if you like the looks of them, the perhaps that is an over-riding factor. You can plug any mic with a Kenwood 8 pin connector into the front mic jack.  There are many Kenwood compatible mics on the market - but stay away from the

Re: [Elecraft] K2 Faulty menu switch?

2022-10-23 Thread Don Wilhelm
l get the occasional encoder freeze-up. 2) Can I try and flow some solder on those damaged traces? Thanks so much for your help! Jerry KI4IO Warrenton, VA On Sat, 2022-10-15 at 17:36 -0400, Don Wilhelm wrote: Jerry, That does sound like it might be a bad solder connection. Try resoldering Front

Re: [Elecraft] K2 Faulty menu switch?

2022-10-15 Thread Don Wilhelm
Jerry, That does sound like it might be a bad solder connection. Try resoldering Front Panel RP1 and U2.  Those components are critical to decoding the switch matrix. You might also try reseating Control Board U6 - but do so in a static controlled manner. With that 7xxx serial number, you

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Question on S-Meter Calibration

2022-10-10 Thread Don Wilhelm
Greg, The KX3 is designed around having the preamp on most of the time. 73, Don W3FPR On 10/10/2022 1:58 PM, WA1JXR ALGIERI wrote: I have noticed with my KX3 that the S-Meter is not calibrated that is 50 microvolts (-73 dBm) at the antenna connector equals a S9 signal only when the preamp

Re: [Elecraft] KAT500 frequency memories question

2022-10-02 Thread Don Wilhelm
On the multiple lists vs. one list: As long as the individual product is placed in the subject line, multiple products are easily dealt with using filters. Filter the posts any way you want (including deleting them) - learn how to use filters in your email client and you can do things such as

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] CAL-PLL Question

2022-07-30 Thread Don Wilhelm
Wolfgang, In my experience, that is not necessary. It IS necessary to have the bottom cover in place before running CAL PLL. 73, Don W3FPR On 7/30/2022 11:25 AM, Wolfgang wrote: Hi, in a german QRP forum I found this hint from Peter, DL2FI (SK).    In any case, the PLL calibration must be

Re: [Elecraft] My K2 lost audio

2022-07-29 Thread Don Wilhelm
Chris, Do you still have sidetone?  If so Control Board U9 is still active, so check the MUTE signal and CB Q6 and Q7 operation. If you have the KDSP2 installed, remove it and install 2 wire jumpers one between CB J1 pin 1 and CB J2  pin 1.  The second jumper between CB J1 pin 2 and CB J2

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 and Heatsink

2022-06-13 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bill, If you run 12 watts on AM, FM and digital then the supplied heatsink (assuming it is the newer heatsink the wraps around the bottom of the KX3) then it should be adequate. If you want to run the full 15 watts on those modes, I would suggest adding the Pro Audio Engineering heatsink for

Re: [Elecraft] Have a K-2 SN 01049

2022-05-31 Thread Don Wilhelm
been back to you a couple of times (for what, I'm not sure). I'll ask him for the serial number; it's the K2/100 with DSP and SSB, as well as the KAT100 to go with it. Tim On Tue, May 31, 2022 at 2:46 PM Don Wilhelm wrote: Tim, There are several variations of a K2, so the fair price depends

Re: [Elecraft] Have a K-2 SN 01049

2022-05-31 Thread Don Wilhelm
Tim, There are several variations of a K2, so the fair price depends on the state of the upgrades (as well as the options installed).  If it is above SN3000 and if the KPA100 has been upgraded, it should bring a fair price. He should state which upgrades and options have been installed. If

Re: [Elecraft] Troubleshooting KIO2

2022-05-27 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave, What is the serial number of your K2 - if it is below 3000 and has not been upgraded with the A to B mods, you could have damaged the MCU. 73, Don W3FPR On 5/27/2022 7:58 PM, Dave Sublette wrote: Interesting. Thanks! Dave On Fri, May 27, 2022 at 7:53 PM David Woolley wrote: It's

Re: [Elecraft] Added info KIO2 troubleshooting

2022-05-27 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave, Disconnect pin 1 of your built adapter. 73, Don W3FPR On 5/27/2022 3:46 PM, Dave Sublette wrote: Sorry... I forgot to say that I am using a short adapter cable, DB9-M to DB-9F that eliminates all wire connections except for pins 1,2,3, and 5, per instructions in the K2 Manual. It is

Re: [Elecraft] Troubleshooting KIO2

2022-05-27 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave, DO NOT PLUG THE USB TO SERIAL CABLE DIRECTLY  INTO THE KIO2!!  It will cause 'strange happpenings' and can even damage to the K2. There is a special cable with a DE9 male on one end and a DE9 female on the other end.  The instructions for building it are in the KIO2 manual.  it does

Re: [Elecraft] K1 accessories

2022-05-01 Thread Don Wilhelm
Chris, That is quite feasible - getting a board is the starting problem. If you can find a 2 band board for any band(s), you can order the crystals for the bands you want from Elecraft. They may also have the K1 band kits in stock which have the capacitors required for that band.  Worst case,

Re: [Elecraft] K3 ERR KEY message

2022-04-12 Thread Don Wilhelm
That message means that for some reason or another. the K3 is detecting a key closure on power up. Check your key and the contact spacing first, and then proceed to anything that may be causing  that message. Don't overlook a stuck PTT switch, which can cause the same message. If all else

Re: [Elecraft] [POSSIBLE SPAM] Re: Shipping via UPS - A Lesson Learned the Hard Way

2022-04-11 Thread Don Wilhelm
The "problem" With shipping via UPS (at least when I was doing it) was that If the insurance was $1000 or more, you had to arrange a pickup (small pickup charge) and give the package to a UPS driver and obtain his signature. That was more than 5 years ago, so the rules might have changed. I

Re: [Elecraft] K3 MCU download /

2022-04-03 Thread Don Wilhelm
Go to the manual and look up how to recover from that condition (Forcing a firmware download). It on page 42 of my old manual under Firmware Updates, the page may have changed in newer manuals. It is easy to do and does not have to  go to a repair facility. 73, Don W3FPR On 4/3/2022 1:37 PM,

Re: [Elecraft] Heat Sink Compound Question

2022-03-29 Thread Don Wilhelm
Tony, Elecraft has always used the thermal pads. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/29/2022 5:24 PM, Tony wrote: All: It seems that thermal compounds are not all the same and I was wondering which type is best to use for transceiver applications? I understand Elecraft uses thermal pads these days, but

Re: [Elecraft] K2 help with S Meter Cal.

2022-03-27 Thread Don Wilhelm
Pete, If you turn the RF Gain down gradually, do you get a progression of LEDs to light one at a time? If so turn the RF Gain fully clockwise and then adjust Control Board R1 to obtain 6 volts at CB U2 pin 5. After that, adjust CAL S Low and CAL S Hi. If your K2 SN is lower than 3000, R1 is 

Re: [Elecraft] Knowles HC-3 Mic Element Replacement For Heil HC-5

2022-03-21 Thread Don Wilhelm
I agree with Fred (Skip)- electret mic elements are hard to beat, especially with Elecraft rigs or others which have frequency compensation.  The electret elements are small and inexpensive.  With their flat responses, they will need some equalization for use as ham mics - reduced low

Re: [Elecraft] De-soldering Tool Recommendations?

2022-03-14 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave and all, I have not used the Pace desoldering tool, but I have plenty of experience with the Hakko 808. The vacuum pump needs to be disassembled and cleaned of solder flux occasionally and once that is done, it has plenty of suction.  That means the holes and plastic "flappers" in the

Re: [Elecraft] KX1 Power Switch

2022-03-13 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dwayne, I believe Elecraft has replacement switches. You can try reversing the switch, only one side is used - remove it and turn it around. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/13/2022 11:25 AM, Dwayne Barbee via Elecraft wrote: The power switch for my KX1 has stopped working, does anyone know of a

Re: [Elecraft] K2 Loses FT8 Rig Control Connection

2022-03-11 Thread Don Wilhelm
Murray, What microphone is your K2 wired for?  Check the microphone configuration header on the front panel if you don't know - the info on plugging the header is in the KSB2 manual. I don't know the wiring for that Kenwood adapter, but it may be connecting to the wrong pin for your K2 mic

Re: [Elecraft] D-104 Mic Element Replacement

2022-02-22 Thread Don Wilhelm
I have used electric elements in the D104 and they worked quite well. If you want a dynamic element, I suggest the HC4 or HC5 from Heil Sound.  I don't know if Heil is still selling those mic elements separately, but they do work well in the D104 (and other mics). Just add enough foam padding

Re: [Elecraft] K2 scratchy noise on RX CW signals

2022-02-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
stion. Any idea if the scratchy audio would persist if the KDSP2 was put into bypass mode? I tried that and scratchy audio was still there. Thanks, -Andrew On Sat, Feb 19, 2022 at 8:49 PM Don Wilhelm wrote: Andrew, That sounds like you had the NB and/or NR set on in the KDSP2 with

Re: [Elecraft] K2 scratchy noise on RX CW signals

2022-02-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
Andrew, That sounds like you had the NB and/or NR set on in the KDSP2 with aggressive settings. If the settings were aggressive, it would give you 'scratchy' audio - but it does eliminate other unwanted signal sounds.  You might want to put the KDSP2 in again and try several settings - see

Re: [Elecraft] Seeking input on 3rd-party microphones used with our transceivers

2022-02-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
Wayne, If you are seeking connections for various microphones, I can suggest you consult the extensive list of microphone schematics and pinouts compiled by G4WPW (SK).  his information is preserved at https://www.qsl.net/g4wpw/date.html. It does not have any 'mic quality' information, but if

Re: [Elecraft] K2 Menu and Tune Buttons

2022-01-15 Thread Don Wilhelm
Aaron, I suspect that the firmware is not recognizing that the KAT2 is not present. Make certain that all wires to the KAT2 board are present and well soldered. It also could be that the KAT2 firmware has failed. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/12/2022 8:24 PM, Aaron K5ATG wrote: This evening I tried to

Re: [Elecraft] KX1 RX and TX Problem

2021-12-27 Thread Don Wilhelm
Matt, You likely have a problem with U7.  At least, that is the thing that you need to resolve first. Sorry about U6, it usually makes a loud pop when the base and collector are shorted.  You will have to replace it before you get any power out. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/25/2021 2:51 AM, Matt

Re: [Elecraft] KX3, KXPA100 setup with Win4K3 Suite question

2021-12-27 Thread Don Wilhelm
John, Only one KXUSB is needed.  The other is just a TRS to TRS cable. The KXUSB cable must connect first between the KXPA100 and the PC.  The second cable between the KXPA100 and the KX3. If connected that way, everything should work. See if both the KXPA100 Utility and the KX3 Utility will

Re: [Elecraft] Stripping & Tinning Enameled Wire - Fast, Easy, Reliably

2021-12-24 Thread Don Wilhelm
Doug, I use 800 deg F and a wide tip to get the job done. Of course my Hakko 808 is a lot easier.  Clean the inside of the Hakkko tip after a few toroids. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/24/2021 11:25 AM, Douglas Hagerman via Elecraft wrote: How hot does the solder need to be to burn off magnet wire

Re: [Elecraft] K2 TX audio

2021-12-21 Thread Don Wilhelm
If you have the K2/100, remove the KI6WX mod - without the KPA100, it makes no difference. Make certain the SSB FL1 filter is set to OP1. Check the position of the OP1 filter passband with Spectrogram  . The low frequency 'knee' of the passband should be close to 300 Hz. If you are wondering

Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 audio

2021-12-21 Thread Don Wilhelm
Edward and Terry, The SSBCAPKT was released November 2004.    KSB2 kits built before that had a 2.1 khz filter. Look at  your KSB2 board.  If CB and CN positions are populated, you have the narrow 2.1 khz filter width. Download the instructions for the SSBCAPKT

Re: [Elecraft] K2

2021-12-20 Thread Don Wilhelm
Snowy, Make sure the switch on the Control Board is in the INT position. If using a battery, it may have a low voltage - it must be higher than 10.5 volts. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/20/2021 11:19 AM, snowy howell via Elecraft wrote: Hi All Update on the K2 and its problems or now lack of them.

Re: [Elecraft] K2 BFO problem

2021-12-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
Snowy, I am glad to hear that it is now working for you.  It sounds like you had a soldering problem somewhere. A surplus of solder usually means that the lead and solder pad were not heated sufficiently. If you have other areas where you find excess solder, just reheat and if necessary, wick

Re: [Elecraft] K3 Frequency Calibration

2021-12-16 Thread Don Wilhelm
Pete, When using WWV to set the K3 reference, make certain you are listening to the carrier.  WWV is an AM signal that is modulated by a 500 or 600 Hz tone on alternate minutes (440 Hz 2 minutes after the hour).  That produces tones that are both above and below the carrier. So be certain you

Re: [Elecraft] K2 BFO problem

2021-12-16 Thread Don Wilhelm
Snowy, It sounds as though you have the proper BFO crystals installed at X3 and X4. Do check the values of C173 and C174 first Then check L33 to make certain it is well soldered and the leads are attached to the 1/8 watt resistor leads. Check D37 and D38 to be certain they are oriented

Re: [Elecraft] K2 and N1MM+

2021-12-07 Thread Don Wilhelm
Ted, You should be using the special cable from the PC (or USB to Serial adapter). That cable has no RTS or DTR wires in it, so it will not work for sending CW from N1MM.  In other words, DTR and RTS are not implemented in the K2. Do NOT try to "fix" it by plugging the USB to serial adapter

Re: [Elecraft] K1 LCD BaCKLIGHT

2021-12-04 Thread Don Wilhelm
Ken, The K1 LCD backlight is no longer possible.  The original used half of the K2 backlight strip which is no longer available and the new K2 strip is too thick to fit under the K1 LCD. 73, Don W3FPR On 12/3/2021 11:39 PM, Ken Brown wrote: Need the best modifications for back lighting

Re: [Elecraft] No bars at all on KX3 digital mode transmit

2021-11-26 Thread Don Wilhelm
Julia, That is designed in to prevent the audio front end from being damaged by a high audio level. For those who have read my document on setting the audio levels, I was careful to state that one should start with each audio level (computer and KX3) to mid-range for a starting point and

Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K1 VFO reading

2021-11-26 Thread Don Wilhelm
Mike, The K1 must tune a bit below the low end of each band.  That is to compensate for the crystals on the band board not being precision crystals - so your K1 is behaving as normal. You CAN tweak it by a small amount on ONE band (the 2nd band will change too). In your case, I would

Re: [Elecraft] XV50 Rev B - Questions

2021-11-24 Thread Don Wilhelm
Brian, In later XV transverters, JP9 controls when the crystal oven is powered. Since you do not have JP9, even if you have a crystal oven, it will still work fine. The oven will be powered when the XV50 is powered.  Just allow some time for it to warm up (about 20 minutes). Actually, the

Re: [Elecraft] KIO2 problem -- maybe

2021-11-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave, Being a little 'tongue in cheek' the answer is -- That depends on what you mean by "good"! Seriously, the fact that you can turn it on and off in the menu only means that there is a response from the KIO2 when it is communicating with the MCU over the AUXBUS line. I would suspect the

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] K2/100 - Serial Port Quit Working

2021-11-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
s, I think 2.03. I don’t have it with me, and I’m not sure. On Nov 18, 2021, at 5:14 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Bill, What is the level of the MCU (before you changed it), and what level did you try putting in? And what is the serial number of your K2? Those may help to solve the problem. 73,

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] K2/100 - Serial Port Quit Working

2021-11-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bill, In the KPA100, the normal Vss is about -25 volts, so suspect that something may be loading that negative supply. Pull U4 out and measure that voltage again.  If it is still not negative enough, you may have  a problem in the T/R switch.  Check for 90 to 150 volts on the highest voltage

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] K2/100 - Serial Port Quit Working

2021-11-18 Thread Don Wilhelm
an older revision of the firmware for U6. I did try before substituting the KPA100 U4, and it didn’t address the issue. I guess this will require more sleuthing. On Nov 16, 2021, at 12:35 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Bill, Plug the ribbon cable in and do an end to end continuity test - KPA100 U4 pin

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] K2/100 - Serial Port Quit Working

2021-11-18 Thread Don Wilhelm
Matt, I Forgot to mention that to Bill.  The special cable does not have to be very long, but it must be present.  Only pins 2, 3 and 5 should connect to the RS232 connector on the USB to serial adapter.  Failure to follow this will cause several "strange happenings" with the K2.  The subject

Re: [Elecraft] K2 driving KPA1500

2021-11-16 Thread Don Wilhelm
Ted, The 9 pin connector on the KIO2 is not compatible with the signals required by either amplifier.  You will be better off using only the PA Amp Keying from the K2. That Amp Keying output is not standard on the K2, but I believe Dave Van Wallaghen W8FGU is making up kits.  Send an email to

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] K2/100 - Serial Port Quit Working

2021-11-16 Thread Don Wilhelm
to debug this further? On Nov 5, 2021, at 3:10 PM, Bill Coleman wrote: Yes, Vss Vdd and Vcc all look like appropriate values. On Nov 4, 2021, at 3:47 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Bill, Make certain you have +12 volts on U4 pin 1 and +5 volts on U4 pin 16 and about -25 volts (-8 to -27 volts) on U4

Re: [Elecraft] K2 - Stumble at the last hurdle.

2021-11-11 Thread Don Wilhelm
Mark, Did you measure C44 and C46 through the entire range of rotation? and what is the color of the plastic bodies? The last I knew, they were about 20pF maximum and the bodies were red.  The others do not have a sufficiently low capacity to tune 12 meters. Similarly for C21 and C23 which

Re: [Elecraft] K2 new kit question

2021-11-08 Thread Don Wilhelm
James, It is not  likely to be a problem, but check any that are on the bottom.  If they are too high to clear the bottom cover, just bend  them over a bit.  Replace the ones with the cracked bodies. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/8/2021 11:25 AM, JAMES GUNNOE wrote: Good morning everyone. I have

Re: [Elecraft] PLL Range test

2021-11-05 Thread Don Wilhelm
James, Listen to Dave, he is 'on target' with his post, and he is now the K2 'expert'.  But it might be helpful if you post the PLL high and low frequencies as well as the range test results. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/5/2021 8:27 AM, JAMES GUNNOE wrote: To follow up on my question about the PLL

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] K2/100 - Serial Port Quit Working

2021-11-04 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bill, Make certain you have +12 volts on U4 pin 1 and +5 volts on U4 pin 16 and about -25 volts (-8 to -27 volts) on U4 pin 8. If those are correct, replace U4 and it should work) 73, Don W3FPR On 11/4/2021 3:29 PM, Bill Coleman wrote: About 10 days ago, I was having trouble with the

Re: [Elecraft] Need Mic adapter: Icom SM-50 to K3 mic input jack

2021-11-02 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bob, The Elecraft mic pinout is ALMOST the same as Kenwood's The Elecraft pin 6 carries +5 volts while for Kenwood, the +5 volts is on pin 5. Pin 5 for Elecraft is the Function button. If your microphone does not require +5 volts and does not have buttons other than PTT, then you only have

Re: [Elecraft] Need Mic adapter: Icom SM-50 to K3 mic input jack

2021-11-02 Thread Don Wilhelm
Microphone schematics and other info can be found at https://www.qsl.net/g4wpw/date.html. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/2/2021 11:38 AM, Ken Winterling wrote: Bob, Can you build adapters if you have schematics? DIY gives you lots of possibilities. ⁣

Re: [Elecraft] Rf Choke placement

2021-11-02 Thread Don Wilhelm
Those RF chokes are bi-lateral - they can be installed either way, just like resistors. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/2/2021 10:18 AM, JAMES GUNNOE wrote: Hi all, Building a K2 kit. Does it matter which way to install the RF chokes? I am speaking of the color coded ones that resemble resistors.

Re: [Elecraft] K2 K2 QSK?

2021-10-24 Thread Don Wilhelm
Jerry, Your K2 #1 DOES have AGC - it is built into ALL K2s. There are 2 possibilities - 1) the AGC has been turned off - that is a 2 button function of PRE/ATT button and the AGC button pressed at the same time.  Normally just using the AGC button changes between FAST and SLOW. 2) The AGC

Re: [Elecraft] Help getting WSJTx audio out thru K3

2021-10-15 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bob, Go to my webpage www.w3fpr.com and read the articular about setting the transmit audio levels. There are up to 3 sound level controls involved, 2 in the computer and one in the K3. If you are using the MIC input, there are 2 levels - high output mics and low output mics.  Your audio

Re: [Elecraft] K3 / WSJT-X Delayed Transmit

2021-10-11 Thread Don Wilhelm
Jim, Two possible fixes: 1) Use PTT via CAT command - most digital applications provide for it. 2) Check that your audio levels are sufficient - for the Elecraft gear, you should have 4 bars of ALC solid with the 5th one blinking.  See the full explanation on my website www.w3fpr.com. 73,

Re: [Elecraft] KXBC3 charger question

2021-10-05 Thread Don Wilhelm
Eddy, The most likely answer is that your batteries are self discharging.  NiMH batteries will do that, although there are low self discharge batteries available that you should look into. 73, Don W3FPR On 10/4/2021 11:14 PM, Eddy - k6sdw wrote: I have a KX3 with the KXBC3 Nimh charger

Re: [Elecraft] PX3 kit tips?

2021-09-30 Thread Don Wilhelm
Julie, Just follow the instructions.  You will need a #1 Phillips screwdriver. If you don't understand any procedure, ask here. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/30/2021 3:34 PM, Julia Tuttle wrote: Hi folks, I got jealous of the waterfall display on my girlfriend's IC-7300, so I got myself a PX3, and

Re: [Elecraft] KPA100/KAT100 EC2 Combo to ICOM 705

2021-09-29 Thread Don Wilhelm
Robin, That will not work.  The KPA100 depends on internal signals from the base K2 such as AUXBUS and several other signals to operate and control power output.  In other words, it is an amplifier dedicated to the K2 and not a general purpose amplifier. The KXPA100 and KXAT100 would serve

Re: [Elecraft] P3 Acting Wonky

2021-09-23 Thread Don Wilhelm
Jim, Check the BNC cable between the K3 IF Out and the P3.  At the P3 end, make sure it is connected to IF IN. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/23/2021 4:48 PM, James Bennett via Elecraft wrote: Hope someone can help me out on this one. I just moved into a new home, relocating my station from CA to ID.

Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmitter power woes

2021-09-13 Thread Don Wilhelm
Chet, It sounds like you do not have sufficient audio drive. In DATA A mode, how many ALC bars do you obtain?  You must have 4 bars solid with the 5th one flashing. Adjust the audio levels from the computer to achieve that - I assume you are using LINE in. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/13/2021 3:56

Re: [Elecraft] K2 keyer problem

2021-09-07 Thread Don Wilhelm
Bill, Do you mean that it transmits dashes until the dit side is released? If so, check the dash spacing on your paddles (increase the spacing) and clean the paddle contacts. Also increase the spring tension on the dash side. It sounds to me that somehow the contacts of the paddles may be

Re: [Elecraft] MH3 mic case

2021-09-04 Thread Don Wilhelm
Geert, From your description of the "straight connections" and round plug, I believe you are referring to the MH4 - the original question was about the MH3 which has a 1/8 inch TRRS plug and resistors in the microphone for the buttons. The MH4 is usable with the K2 and K3, the MH3 is usable

Re: [Elecraft] Bad Ham Radio Day

2021-09-04 Thread Don Wilhelm
Jerry, It sounds like some RF from the KPA100 could be getting into the base K2. Is your KPA100 upgraded with the latest updates, AND the new shield? For the latest update, peek between the shield and the board - If you see blue toroid cores at RFC1 and L16, then it is up to date - OTOH, if

Re: [Elecraft] MH3 mic case

2021-09-03 Thread Don Wilhelm
Ian, Elecraft has had a 'rash' of those incidents, but I thought they addressed that with the mic vendor (yes, Elecraft does not stock parts for the mic, they buy them whole from the vendor). There was some speculation a few months ago about the cause -- and I don't know the answer.  Many

Re: [Elecraft] [K2] HI CUR ok?

2021-09-02 Thread Don Wilhelm
Doug, Please read this whole post.  If you have questions about any part of it, please ask. A Hi Cur message does not mean that the PA transistors are in danger. All it means is that the current draw is greater than what is set in CAL CUR. Set CAL CUR to 3.5 for most operation, and all

Re: [Elecraft] [K1] Reduce power when tuning K1?

2021-08-30 Thread Don Wilhelm
Doug, The reduced power is a consideration for the internal tuner relays, not just for the PA transistors. If you have the internal tuner installed, that power reduction is automatic.  For the K2/10, it is 2 watts and for the K1 it is 1.5 watts. If you are using an external tuner, then

Re: [Elecraft] KIO2 and KUSB for K2?

2021-08-23 Thread Don Wilhelm
Paul, You must construct the special cable that is specified in the KIO2 manual - you can make it a short one if you want. That cable has a DE9 connector on the PC end which you can plug into a serial port or into a USB to serial adapter - The KUSB sold by Elecraft is a good choice -- if you

Re: [Elecraft] K3S audio quality issue

2021-08-19 Thread Don Wilhelm
Mike, That problem sounds a bit like the Calibration of the Reference Oscillator is off a bit.  See tha manual and use the Zero-Beating method as instructed. There is a chance it will help, but no harm if it does not. If you did not get the paper manual, download it from Elecraft. 73, Don

Re: [Elecraft] K3S audio quality issue

2021-08-18 Thread Don Wilhelm
Mike, Do you have the Noise Blanker turned on?  That will create some "strange" sounds in the audio. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/17/2021 5:10 PM, Mike Kholodov via Elecraft wrote: Listening to the K3S audio had become very fatiguing for me as of late. It sounds like hum or carrier is mixed in at

Re: [Elecraft] K2 Power Level

2021-08-16 Thread Don Wilhelm
All, I was reminded that I should have added that CW and SSB are low duty cycle modes while FT8 and several other data modes are high duty cycle and will produce more heat. The 'finger test' I mentioned is suitable for any mode. 73, Don W3FPR

Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 RF gain knob inoperable

2021-08-16 Thread Don Wilhelm
Mike, First set the AGC Threshold voltage, and then check the operation of the RF Gain to see if you can get the CAL S LO and CAL S HI settings to fall in line. It is not likely that replacing the pot will fix it. For a scratchy AF Gain control, replace the control, as well as doing the

Re: [Elecraft] K2 Power Level

2021-08-13 Thread Don Wilhelm
Aaron, I cannot give you a specific answer, but go by the heat. I would suggest you first try 5 watts, and operate at that level for a while (I suggest 10 minutes). Then check the heatsink temperature - if you can hold your fingers on it for longer than 5 minutes, then all is well. Increase

Re: [Elecraft] My appeal for help regarding my KXPA100 Failure to Turn on and Stay On

2021-08-13 Thread Don Wilhelm
Carter, Contact support for further assistance. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/13/2021 6:43 AM, Carter Craigie wrote: My thanks to the three fine Elecrafters who sent me suggestions to fix my KXPA100 amplifier. I tried their suggestions, but no joy. The problem I have? After months of fine operation in

Re: [Elecraft] K2 RF Output

2021-08-12 Thread Don Wilhelm
-reflector (direct email and take {Elecraft}  out of the subject line. The troubleshooting details are not likely of interest to the rest of the list.  You can summarize the results to the list when it is resolved. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/12/2021 1:22 PM, jerry wrote: On 2021-08-08 09:49, Don Wilhelm

Re: [Elecraft] Help Needed for KPA100 Amplifier

2021-08-12 Thread Don Wilhelm
Carter, Check/replug and check again the RJ45 plug on the back of the KXPA100.  It must be locked in place.  You should hear a light click as it is fully seated in its socket. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/12/2021 12:42 PM, Carter Craigie wrote: My problems all started when I moved my Elecraft KX3,

Re: [Elecraft] K2 RF Output

2021-08-08 Thread Don Wilhelm
at 12:16 PM, jerry <mailto:je...@tr2.com>> wrote: All,   Can I just remove the KPA100 and test the K2 "bare" for current draw? - Jerry KF6VB On 2021-08-08 09:49, Don Wilhelm wrote: Jerry, Replace diodes D16 and D17 in the KPA100 wattmeter, and things s

Re: [Elecraft] K2 RF Output

2021-08-08 Thread Don Wilhelm
Jerry, Replace diodes D16 and D17 in the KPA100 wattmeter, and things should settle down. If you attempted to adjust KPA100 C1 while this condition was present, balance the wattmeter again, it will change with good diodes installed. The diodes are 1N5711 type. That wattmeter is still used as

Re: [Elecraft] K3 dilemma update.

2021-08-08 Thread Don Wilhelm
Richard, The two horizontal bars in the SWR display indicate that the KAT3 is not installed, go to the menu and activate it. As for plugging in the speaker, hold the top cover in a tilted position and route the wire under the horizontal bar in the center, then onto the speaker plug on the

Re: [Elecraft] K2

2021-08-07 Thread Don Wilhelm
Jerry, What is the serial number of that K2?  If below SN 3000, it likely does not have the alternate AF gain wiring. In any case, with those symptoms, replace tha AF Gain pot. Check to see if the KPA100 has the latest updates.  The instructions for the KPA100UPPKT will tell you. Also check

Re: [Elecraft] K3/10 is sick and needs help!

2021-08-07 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dick, Download either the KRX3 or KDVR3 installation instructions.  I know both tell you how to remove the Front Panel assembly. That will tell not only how to remove the assembly, but just removing and re-instaling the Front Panel may wipe the pins enough to remove any oxidation and restore

Re: [Elecraft] K2 and Signalink USB Setup

2021-08-05 Thread Don Wilhelm
Aaron, Unless you have done some sort of mod to that K2, you do NOT have speaker audio at pin 6 of the mic jack. The audio is on the Control Board and RF Board, but NOT the Front Panel board. The schematic of the Kenwood MC-43S microphone from G4WPW (SK) shows no speaker function and no

Re: [Elecraft] K3/K3S Options and Upgrades

2021-08-02 Thread Don Wilhelm
Tom and all, Elecraft still offers service on its legacy gear - KX1, K1, K2, XVseries, so as long as repair parts are available, you can expect service will be available for the K3/K3S in a similar manner. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/2/2021 9:26 AM, Thomas Donohue wrote: Given the termination of

Re: [Elecraft] Frequency shifts of KX3 when selecting CW?

2021-07-26 Thread Don Wilhelm
Tom, As an experiment, try tuning the KX3 to a valid ham band like 160 meters in AM mode, then switch to CW. What happens? 1.000 MHz is in the middle of the AM broadcast band, so that is not a good example.  I am thinking perhaps this is built into the KX3 firmware to prevent transmitting

Re: [Elecraft] K2 CW - relay clicks

2021-07-24 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave, I am at a loss to tell you what is going on.  The T/R switching in the K2 is all electronic, no relays involved. If a K2/100, break it down to just the base K2 and see if it is in the base K2 or in the KPA100. If you have the K2/10, remove the top cover which contains the KAT2. If it

Re: [Elecraft] Changing K1 sidetone frequency

2021-07-23 Thread Don Wilhelm
Doug, The answer is "yes and no". Set the sidetone pitch in the menu, then adjust capacitor C20 (BFO adjust)  to center the filter at 600 Hz. You also need to adjust the Transmit Offset to match (adjust C13) - see the manual for the procedure. 73, Don W3FPR On 7/23/2021 11:58 AM, Douglas

Re: [Elecraft] In Line Power Pole Fuses

2021-07-21 Thread Don Wilhelm
Dave and all, Placing the fuse near the power supply end is the way to do it. In the event of a short, the power wire can spew metal and start a fire. Always fuse near the power supply.  A fuse at the equipment end will only protect the equipment, but will expose the wire from the power supply

Re: [Elecraft] denatured alcohol vs. Everclear

2021-07-17 Thread Don Wilhelm
Here, the XYL uses  cheap 80 proof Vodka to 'awake' vanilla bean seeds.  She has a bunch of vanilla beans and when soaked in alcohol for about 2 months (shaken every day), it makes vanilla extract. She was doing commercial baking when she acquired the vanilla beans because it was MUCH less

Re: [Elecraft] Broke my K2 :(

2021-07-14 Thread Don Wilhelm
When I have cleaned boards with IPA or other cleaners, I apply the IPA only in a small spot with a q-tip and then blot it with a paper towel to help dry it - do not flood the board. I generally do not recommend cleaning boards, solder flux is non-conductive and will normally not cause a

Re: [Elecraft] KAT500 ANT1 problem

2021-07-11 Thread Don Wilhelm
And discard those "Amazon Special" PL-259s. Use only quality connectors.  It is not worth it to use off-spec connectors - you are witness to the pain and heartache they can cause. 73, Don W3FPR On 7/11/2021 4:52 PM, Dave wrote: If it were me, I'd replace the SO-239 on the tuner...  That way,

Re: [Elecraft] Chasing paddles around desk top

2021-07-08 Thread Don Wilhelm
Have any of you with key chasing problems tried putting the key on a piece of a mouse pad?  Don't be afraid to cut it, it is an inexpensive solution (sometimes free). I use a key with a very heavy base (Tony Baleno key) and do not have a problem even though I am a 'slap paddles' type. Try the

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