[Elecraft] #4687 is now a K2/100
Well, it has been 2 weeks since all these Elecraft boxes hit the door and everything is assembled, tested and ready for the 160 contest this weekend. The K2, K160RX, KDSP2, KNB2,KPA100, KSB2 and KRC2 went together flawlessly. I can't say enough about the organized assembly instructions and quality of the boards, parts and inventory. I didn't do ANY inventory count prior to construction and everything worked out perfectly. I realize I'm living dangerously, but that's the kind of guy I am. In this case, it all worked out perfectly...even the computer interface. NOW I just need to spend some quality time learning how to operate this rig. ;-) Bob K5WA ___ 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] Announcement: Hamlib K2 support
Hello fellow Elecrafters, Hamlib (http://hamlib.sourceforge.net/) is an open source project which provides software developers with a single interface to all supported radios. This allows the developer to support a large number of radios without having to learn how each radio interface works or write separate code for each radio. Hamlib has provided basic support for the K2 for a couple years. It treats it as a generic Kenwood radio. This provides basic functionality, but many of the KIO2's capabilities cannot be used. I am now the maintainer for the K2 portion of Hamlib. The eventual goal is to support the complete KIO2 command set. I say "eventual" because I am working on it in my limited spare time. My plan is to add a few features at a time as time permits. This will allow incremental improvements rather than a long wait for full support. Any suggestions, ideas, comments, feedback, offers of help, chocolate, etc, are always welcome. I am particularly interested in which capabilities are most wanted and should be supported first. -- 73, Brian VE7NGR ___ 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] Shaft Encoder - KX1 #897
Fred, K6DGW wrote: I've noticed recently that the VFO shaft encoder doesn't seem to count reliably. I usually run in the 100 Hz resolution, and turning it slowly in the increasing frequency direction will sometimes result in a 100 or 200 Hz decrease. The key seems to be "slowly," going faster seems to be ok. I am sure this is recent (last few weeks) and wasn't a problem when I first finished the kit. Is this a common problem? Is it fixable? I finished bought the kit at Pacificon in Oct 04 and finished it a couple of weeks later. I will admit that my KX1 is getting quite a bit of use ... I worry the K2 is feeling like an ignored step-child these days. - I can't reproduce it on KX1 #004 Fred. Nor have I heard of other complaints. I'd recommend a very close inspection of the encoder connections. Two or three months is a common interval for a missed joint to start acting up as some oxide forms on the metal surfaces, depending upon the weather (Literally! Humidity, etc. Sometimes a missed joint won't show up for a year or more but it seems they do more often sooner than later.) 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] Shaft Encoder - KX1 #897
I've noticed recently that the VFO shaft encoder doesn't seem to count reliably. I usually run in the 100 Hz resolution, and turning it slowly in the increasing frequency direction will sometimes result in a 100 or 200 Hz decrease. The key seems to be "slowly," going faster seems to be ok. I am sure this is recent (last few weeks) and wasn't a problem when I first finished the kit. Is this a common problem? Is it fixable? I finished bought the kit at Pacificon in Oct 04 and finished it a couple of weeks later. I will admit that my KX1 is getting quite a bit of use ... I worry the K2 is feeling like an ignored step-child these days. 73, Fred K6DGW Auburn CA CM98lw ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
Jim: It appears that tetrachromacy in the human female comes in two different flavors, "funky red" and "funky green." You can visualize the rods and cones for a particular color as a bandpass filter, just as we use the concept at RF. (Small difference: instead of frequency, optickers think in terms of wavelength, usually in units of nanometers.) Thus, the normal red rods and cones are a bandpass filter with a peak at about 636 nanometers. In a human female tetrachromat with "funky red" vision, the fourth set of rods and cones are a bandpass filter with a peak shifted 4-7 nm from the normal red. Similarly, in a female tetrachromat with "funky green" vision, the fourth set of rods and cones are a bandpass filter with a peak shifted 4-7 nm from the response of the normal green. Two filters differing by such a small shift in frequency response does not look like it would have much effect, but the practical effect can be quite dramatic. For example, the perceptual difference between the tetrochromat and a person with "normal" vision is that the "funky red" tetrochromat can consistently distinguish between shades of red-pink-orange that are look exactly the same to people with normal color vision. (The fact that the distinction in the spectra of these different shades is real can be tested with optical spectral analysis instruments such as interferometers.) One peer-reviewed discussion of tetrachromacy is in the following paper: Richer color experience in observers with multiple photopigment opsin genes, Kimberly A. Jameson ;Susan M. Highnote ; Linda M. Wasserman Psychonomic Bulletin & Review Volume: 8 Number: 2 Page: 244 -- 261 73, Steve AA4AK At 12:58 PM 1/26/2005 -0500, you wrote: Stephen, What are the four colors they see? Thanks, Jim W4BQP Stephen W. Kercel wrote: It is worth mentioning that the female retina is generally more richly endowed with rods and cones than the male retina. In fact, a small percentage of women actually experience four primary colors. ___ 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 #978, comments and questions on second stage
Andrea, Not to dimish anything Ron said, I should point out that a value of 3.7 is a rarity. The standard 5% values have significant digits of 33, 36, 39, 43, 47 and 51 for the value range in question. Expect a standard value unless you know it is a precision or 1% value part (and that fact is usually stated in the parts list) and you will seldom be incorrect. All that said, you very likely have the correct 4.7 uH choke. 73, Don W3FPR - Original Message - From: "Ron D'Eau Claire" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> About the yellow vs. orange color coding, I don't know if Elecraft even stocks a 3.7 uH inductor in that size. If they do, I guess it's possible there was a switch. ___ 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 #978, comments and questions on second stage
Andrea wrote: This is my first kit and first big project, so my comments should be taken with a grain of salt. However, I try to follow the instructions very very closely (I've actually read them back-to-back once before even getting the package!) and I'm pleased to hear my little contribution will further improve an already awesome manual. --- As a writer I never object to comments about stumbling points in the instructions. The one you tripped over was something I should have brought it to Wayne's attention. Our objective with the Elecraft kits is that they be buildable by anyone who can solder, follow instructions and do basic electrical measurements such as resistance and voltage. An instruction for something to be "...about x mA..." is never good and the worst place to put it is in a manual that will be used by someone who doesn't have a lot of experience with the circuits used in the radio. So I really appreciate your pointing it out. About the yellow vs. orange color coding, I don't know if Elecraft even stocks a 3.7 uH inductor in that size. If they do, I guess it's possible there was a switch. And, yes, I know that some of the colors being used today are not the best. Don mentioned that earlier in a post here. We used to see big stripes or round dots of bright unmistakable colors, but lately I get the feeling that those choosing color-coding paints for some companies are trying to make a fashion statement, not communicate a parts value! I'd say you have a 99% chance of having the right part already. You might drop a question about whether it could be an error to either "[EMAIL PROTECTED]" (Gary) or "[EMAIL PROTECTED]". The latter e-mail address is strictly for ordering parts, but they might be able to clarify whether it is even possible that you got the wrong part based on what they carry in stock. 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
Re: [Elecraft] Bandscope
Julian, You have to use a separate serial port for MixW PTT/CW and HRD CAT. HRD uses the serial port connected to the K2, and MixW has no CAT. MixW uses the secondary PTT/RTTY port for PTT/CW and the DTR/RTS from this port are connected to the PTT/CW keying interface. CAT is disabled, and MixW has no CAT connection to the K2. On N4PY, you setup the N4PY program to use the K2 with the Pegasus interface. You tell MixW under configuration/CAT to use the Ten-Tec Pegasus. A window opens and you enter the path to the N4PY program. Frequency/mode commands are sent to the N4PY program which send them to the K2. The N4PY program sends the same from the K2 back to MixW, so MixW will track mode/frequency. You still have to use the secondary PTT/RTTY port for PTT/CW. The K2 can use CAT for PTT, but the N4PY program doesn't do CAT PTT. The best way to do this is to use separate directories for each configuration of MixW. One for MixW using its own CAT, one MixW for HRD and one for MixW with N4PY. You only have the full features of MixW when it does its own CAT. The Align function, for example. I set up MixW to send every function the K2 will take, using macros. When using psk31, I like MixW all by its self. For CW DXing, N2PY is the best, as you can get the K2 to do some things it won't do by its self, like have the filter settings follow VFO A or B selection. I will try your program shortly, and see if I can get it work with MixW using one serial port. 73, Chas At 01:29 PM 1/26/2005, Julian, G4ILO wrote: How do they not fight over the serial port? I loaded HRD, then loaded MixW, and it crashed with an illegal instruction. I closed HRD and then loaded MixW on its own, and it worked fine. My bandscope was slightly better behaved: it reported "Error opening COM port" when HRD was running. I guess N4PY is providing a virtual COM port for the other apps to use. ___ 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 #978, comments and questions on second stage
Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: L7 is a 4.7 uH inductor, so it is really Yellow! Orange-violet-gold would be 3.7 uH, not 4.7 uH. How does its color compare alongside L10, which is orange-orange-black (33 uH)? I don't have the KX1 here with me, so I asked my friend Nicola to check this. In the worst case, I should be able to check again myself on saturday. I do recall, though, that I compared the color bands with those on other inductors and resistors under the same lighting conditions and could tell which ones were yellow and which ones orange. If my L7's first band turns out to be indeed yellow, then it means the manufacturer got a batch of truly weird paint ;-) Sorry for the confusion. You make a good point about a better-defined spec. for the current drain test. I'll bring it up with the KX1 designer (Wayne). This is my first kit and first big project, so my comments should be taken with a grain of salt. However, I try to follow the instructions very very closely (I've actually read them back-to-back once before even getting the package!) and I'm pleased to hear my little contribution will further improve an already awesome manual. B73, Andrea. -- Homepage: http://andrea.borgia.bo.it /Amateur radio: IZ4FHT A: Because it messes up the order in which people normally read text. Q: Why is top-posting such a bad thing? A: Top-posting. Q: What is the most annoying thing on usenet and in e-mail? ___ 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] K2 4519
I am pleased to add to the chorus of "it works!".. My K2 SN 4519 has been built - with a bit of troubleshooting from the Elecraft service guys/gals, and after adding the antenna tuner (really neat), the DSP/clock module and the SSB module, I fired up the unit to all of 7 watts on SSB and with some trepidation asked for a 40 m. signal report. "Nice audio" was the response, and the other op's S meter did not register however I was clearly copyable. How nice, How nice. Now to get that CW up to speed. What a rig. 73 Slater VE5OA ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
I have one of these and the transformer causes the K2 BFO modulation problem. I moved it to the right side of the K2 and it sems ok, but I still don't transmit with it on. Leigh WA5ZNU And another suggestion is the Ott Task Lamp (Ott model number > OTL13TCG). ___ 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] It's Alive!!!
Hey Everybody. It's Alive! It's Alive!! Time for the Happy Dance. It is official ... K2 #3375 is Now Alive and Well. Finished the building on 25 January (my birthday ... what a present) and plugged it in this afternoon. Called a few CQ's, and made sure I could hear myself on the KX1 across the room ... all seems well. My XYL bought me an Elecraft HexKey #E087 for my birthday, so I will have the full Elecraft Station set up and making some QSO's through the day to try out all the features. All I can say so far is WOW for both the K2 and the HexKey ... A full report later ... off to lunch and then BACK ON THE AIR! Should be fun for a week or two before I break down, take it off the air and start on the SSB board, I/O Board, Autotuner and 160m board. 73/72 Jeff - VA3JFF K2 #3375 HexKey #E087 ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
> And another suggestion is the Ott Task Lamp (Ott model number > OTL13TCG). FWIW: My wife's hobby is needlepoint, which is, and I'm not making this up, as expensive as ham radio can be. (This has worked well for me since we agreed long ago to an "equal hobby allowance" policy) She has one of these lights, and when I ask her to read color codes for me it's always that light source she uses. I can't give you a first person account of it's value, however ... I'm colorblind and all the little colored bands look pretty much alike to me. Fortunately, on the K2, Elecraft supplied the resistors taped in the order of installation. I measured each one, but didn't have to hunt the right one down. 73, Fred K6DGW Auburn CA CM98lw ___ 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: KFL1-2 on 160 meters
Don wrote: >...the following is a copy of my post a long time ago that described >how to put a K1 2 band board on 160 meters. Unfortunately, >Elecraft has not included this as a band kit Great post. I'd missed it somehow, but I've got it on file now. Thanks! I'm personally not all that interested in 160m QRP just right now, but it certainly seems as though this should be a standard K1 option, officially supported by Elecraft. I wonder why it isn't? 73, Mike / KK5F ___ 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] Bandscope
How do they not fight over the serial port? I loaded HRD, then loaded MixW, and it crashed with an illegal instruction. I closed HRD and then loaded MixW on its own, and it worked fine. My bandscope was slightly better behaved: it reported "Error opening COM port" when HRD was running. I guess N4PY is providing a virtual COM port for the other apps to use. 73, -- Julian, G4ILO (RSGB, ARRL) G4ILO's Shack: http://www.tech-pro.net/g4ilo Charles Greene <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Julian, I run both at the same time. Either MixW plus HRD, or MixW plus N4PY. I'll have to try your bandscope. N4PY lets you do cat through a software interface, from MixW to N4PY software, and back again. 73, Chas ___ 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] K2 S/n 01432 Back In Production..
Guy's... Andy...GM0NWI...here in Stirling..."Bonnie Scotland" Firstly let me say "Happy New Year For 2005" to everyone on the list...I hope that the "festive season" was as you expected...! And lets hope that 2005 will be a much better year for everyone worldwide than the previous one... Just to let you all know...that "if" you HAD been following the "GM0NWI K2 A Man On A Mission" series over the months last year...following my "journey" in the construction of my "Fully Loaded K2"...you'll know already that I had to stop constrcution for a while due to "major House Refurbishment" Glad to say that "..2005 Brings Another Year.." and that the house refurbishement...long as it was (way over due in completion)has finally came to an end at the end of last year...! I had however to attend to the "finer points" of it myself...and as you may or may not know...I require some help in doin this due to my physical disability and bein confined to my wheelchair.. I am however...postin' this "note" to y'all to let you know that as of today (26/01/05)...I endeavour to start construction again of the rigand therefore will "hopefully" be able to post regular "updates" to my progress as we go along IF anyone is interested in following the progress...same "drill" as before, ...I'll post to the list what I have done ...hopefully with some follow-up pictures of my work Looking forward to catchin' up with all you guys..! Feedback/Comments on the "K2 Mission".greatly appreciated Andy [EMAIL PROTECTED] "...I Just See It.!.." John A. Ross (RSD Communications circa 2004) A.R.S. http://www.gm6nx.com/bbs2/index.php GM0NWI QRP "..It is vain to do with more "A Dis-Orientated Kiwi... "K2 S/n 01432 Soon To Be On-Air" what can be done with less.. In The Northern Hemisphere..." GQRP No.9576 QRP-L No.2165 ARCI No.10561 Alaska QRP Club No.190 Flying Pigs QRP Club No. FP#-1061 ICQ No.31899603 ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
W3FPR - Don Wilhelm wrote: Folks, Part of the blame for color confusion lies with the part manufacturer. I have many older resistors in my junkbox and the color bands are bright and clear - these older color bands are saturated colors and easy to read at a glance under most any lighting condition, so I know it is not my eyes getting dim!!!. Long ago I shifted to using color codes for sorting only. Before installing any resistor (and most caps and inductors) I measure the value. Yes, it adds to my building time but saves me lots of rework/troubleshooting time. michael N6CHV -- "Why build JUST a Web site... when you COULD build a Web BUSINESS?" http://buildit.sitesell.com/webbible.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
[Elecraft] Toroids to trade...
Hello Folks, I have a fair selection of Toroids usable in HF rigs (red and yellow, probably some others as well). What I don't have are the -61 or -63 mixes to use for baluns (160M thru 30M)... Anyone have any extras to trade? Looking for sizes up to T200 (handling about 150W max). See you in the CQ WW 160M Test. K2/100 #3311. 73, Julius n2wn ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
And another suggestion is the Ott Task Lamp (Ott model number OTL13TCG). You can view their complete line of lamps at www.ott-lite.com. This is a color corrected light that you can even carry with you. In addition to trying to figure out resistor color codes I tie trout and bass flys which requires paying attention to subtle colors, this light helps. Along with the flip down magnifier I've had pretty good luck so far. Rick WA3TUU From: "W3FPR - Don Wilhelm" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Reply-To: W3FPR - Don Wilhelm <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Interpreting Color Codes Date: Wed, 26 Jan 2005 12:13:52 -0500 Folks, Part of the blame for color confusion lies with the part manufacturer. I have many older resistors in my junkbox and the color bands are bright and clear - these older color bands are saturated colors and easy to read at a glance under most any lighting condition, so I know it is not my eyes getting dim!!!. Unfortunately though, I don't forsee the situation getting any better since the component manufacturers primary market is to production lines using automatic insertion devices, and for that market, any reasonable marking will do the job, even if it is not 'people readable'. Bearing witness to this fact is the unmarked SMD capacitors. We folks who have to read the values manually have to take 'second seat' (or maybe even the rear seat). The best tool I have found for myself is a small lighted handheld magnifier with fresh batteries - you can buy these for less than $5 at places like Wal-Mart, Target, local drugstore, etc. I use it for viewing the 'fine print' on capacitors as well, and the only color I have trouble with is violet and occasionally red/orange because many of the red pigments are not well saturated, they are more 'bright orange' than an actual red - yes my wife concurs and she has a keen color eye. 73, Don W3FPR - Original Message - After having built a K2, KX1 and numerous other homebrew gear, I have noted by my own observations and comments of others some confusion as to exactly what colors are being observed on small parts, usually resistors and RF chokes. Having been in the printing business for some years, I can say that color perception is often skewed by the light used for viewing. Incandescent lighting seems to be the least accurate for determining the correct colors, particularly yellows, oranges, and browns. Many times I have used sunlight (if available) or sought out a fluorescent lamp (cool white with at least 5200K temperature) to properly interpret colors. When in doubt, I use a meter to confirm the value. ___ 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] eHam K2/100 reviews needed
I just noticed the reviews on eHam for the K2/100 category are getting a little old. If you have a minute (and a K2/100) feel free to post your thoughts there. The direct link is: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/2357 73, Eric ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
Folks, Part of the blame for color confusion lies with the part manufacturer. I have many older resistors in my junkbox and the color bands are bright and clear - these older color bands are saturated colors and easy to read at a glance under most any lighting condition, so I know it is not my eyes getting dim!!!. Unfortunately though, I don't forsee the situation getting any better since the component manufacturers primary market is to production lines using automatic insertion devices, and for that market, any reasonable marking will do the job, even if it is not 'people readable'. Bearing witness to this fact is the unmarked SMD capacitors. We folks who have to read the values manually have to take 'second seat' (or maybe even the rear seat). The best tool I have found for myself is a small lighted handheld magnifier with fresh batteries - you can buy these for less than $5 at places like Wal-Mart, Target, local drugstore, etc. I use it for viewing the 'fine print' on capacitors as well, and the only color I have trouble with is violet and occasionally red/orange because many of the red pigments are not well saturated, they are more 'bright orange' than an actual red - yes my wife concurs and she has a keen color eye. 73, Don W3FPR - Original Message - After having built a K2, KX1 and numerous other homebrew gear, I have noted by my own observations and comments of others some confusion as to exactly what colors are being observed on small parts, usually resistors and RF chokes. Having been in the printing business for some years, I can say that color perception is often skewed by the light used for viewing. Incandescent lighting seems to be the least accurate for determining the correct colors, particularly yellows, oranges, and browns. Many times I have used sunlight (if available) or sought out a fluorescent lamp (cool white with at least 5200K temperature) to properly interpret colors. When in doubt, I use a meter to confirm the value. ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
In other words, for the male constructor it is always good practice to get the female in your life to check the colors. That's just not going to happen at this QTH. Herself doesn't like the time I spend on the rig in the first place. One of this first thigns I bought when I decided I was going to do this project was a floresent circular magnifier lamp. I don't have any problems differentiating color codes. Sometimes, even with the magnifier, I have to look more than twice at the markings on those small caps to make sure I'm seeing what I think I'm seeing. 73, R.Kevin Stover ACØH ___ 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] Battery pack
This may be of interest for portable ops : http://www.sportsmansguide.com/cb/cb.asp?a=178616 I've had one in the past, very handy package, but I lost it :'( , so I'm ordering a replacement, its a good price ..usual disclaimers, I have no connection with the vendor or manufacturerjust a satisfied user. 72, Rich K2CPE K2 #1102 ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
It is worth mentioning that the female retina is generally more richly endowed with rods and cones than the male retina. In fact, a small percentage of women actually experience four primary colors. In other words, for the male constructor it is always good practice to get the female in your life to check the colors. 73, Steve AA4AK At 08:22 AM 1/26/2005 -0800, you wrote: [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: After having built a K2, KX1 and numerous other homebrew gear, I have noted by my own observations and comments of others some confusion as to exactly what colors are being observed on small parts, usually resistors and RF chokes. Many males, including myself, have a small degree of red-green color blindness. This manifests itself by seeing a red resistor band as brown, for example. Poor lighting exacerbates this, and I have taken parts outdoors to sort them. One of my daughters used to serve as my designated color reader when she was only 2-1/2 years old! It gave her a great feeling of importance to be able to do something critical better than her dad. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: After having built a K2, KX1 and numerous other homebrew gear, I have noted by my own observations and comments of others some confusion as to exactly what colors are being observed on small parts, usually resistors and RF chokes. Many males, including myself, have a small degree of red-green color blindness. This manifests itself by seeing a red resistor band as brown, for example. Poor lighting exacerbates this, and I have taken parts outdoors to sort them. One of my daughters used to serve as my designated color reader when she was only 2-1/2 years old! It gave her a great feeling of importance to be able to do something critical better than her dad. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ 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] Bandscope
Julian, I run both at the same time. Either MixW plus HRD, or MixW plus N4PY. I'll have to try your bandscope. N4PY lets you do cat through a software interface, from MixW to N4PY software, and back again. 73, Chas At 09:52 AM 1/26/2005, Julian, G4ILO wrote: It looks pretty, Jim, I'll grant it that. But MixW supports many more modes, plus rig control and logging, and all from within one application that needs less screen real-estate. It isn't FREE, but at fifty bucks it's still a lot less than most ham radio products. 73, -- Julian, G4ILO (RSGB, ARRL) G4ILO's Shack: http://www.tech-pro.net/g4ilo "Jim Brown" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: This program suite is a winner, and it's FREE. The PSK software is spectacular! I've been using it for more than a year. ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
A while ago, I purchased a flashlight from AES which uses four bright white LED's to produce light. The color temperature of the light seems to be very close to daylight, and the light, while extremely bright, is also diffused, so it will brightly and evenly illuminate something nearby (within a foot or two), but it's it's output drops rapidly beyond that distance. It's small, and works great for trying to see around inside equipment (the K2 for example), and I find it very helpful when reading color bands on resistors and rf chokes, since the colors render properly. The flashight is sold under the name 'Lightwave', and it can be found on page 148 of the Amateur Electronic Supply Fall/Winter 2004 catalog. It may be available elsewhere, but I didn't look since the QTH is only about 2 miles from AES store East of Cleveland. (a 'dangerously tempting' place to live if one is a ham!) Their price is $29.99 73, Dale WA8SRA Geoff, K6TFZ, wrote: I have noted by my own observations and comments of others some confusion as to exactly what colors are being observed on small parts, usually resistors and RF chokes...Incandescent lighting seems to be the least accurate for determining the correct colors, particularly yellows, oranges, and browns. Many times I have used sunlight (if available) or sought out a fluorescent lamp (cool white with at least 5200K temperature) to properly interpret colors. When in doubt, I use a meter to confirm the value. ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
Geoff, K6TFZ, wrote: I have noted by my own observations and comments of others some confusion as to exactly what colors are being observed on small parts, usually resistors and RF chokes...Incandescent lighting seems to be the least accurate for determining the correct colors, particularly yellows, oranges, and browns. Many times I have used sunlight (if available) or sought out a fluorescent lamp (cool white with at least 5200K temperature) to properly interpret colors. When in doubt, I use a meter to confirm the value. --- Yes, reading color bands is a growing problem and lighting plays a huge role, especially as the color bands are made narrower and narrower on tiny parts. Incandescent light is very strong at the red end of the spectrum, making reds more pronounced and blues look weaker. Fluorescents have gotten a lot better in recent years, but all I have seen still have a discontinuous spectrum (some wavelengths where they produce no light at all) and a huge peak in output in the green part of the color spectrum. That can make gold look yellow, for example. The problem is that our eyesight has an automatic process that always assumes the light we have is white, and all colors we see are adjusted accordingly. When the source light is not uniformly "white", all the colors we see are shifted accordingly. Sunlight is ideal, but most of us build indoors and at night! I use a good magnifier to see the colors as clearly as possible and, if in doubt, check the part under both fluorescent and incandescent light. I also check a lot of resistors for value - especially the ones with blue bodies. The body color further obscures the color of the bands. Inventorying is also an excellent idea. One can establish which part is which by a process of elimination - matching up those that are obvious and then sorting out what is left while referring to the parts list. If a color is still in doubt, finding a known sample of the color often helps as I suggested with chokes recently where a gold strip looked yellow. Comparing that part with a similar part - especially with the same body color if available - that has a known yellow stripe will often make the difference clear. 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
Re: [Elecraft] Bandscope
It looks pretty, Jim, I'll grant it that. But MixW supports many more modes, plus rig control and logging, and all from within one application that needs less screen real-estate. It isn't FREE, but at fifty bucks it's still a lot less than most ham radio products. 73, -- Julian, G4ILO (RSGB, ARRL) G4ILO's Shack: http://www.tech-pro.net/g4ilo "Jim Brown" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: This program suite is a winner, and it's FREE. The PSK software is spectacular! I've been using it for more than a year. ___ 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: Two radios one key
Dwayne, It is normal when on ssb mode that if you touch your key that the K2 will mute. Simple fixunplug your key from the K2. 73, Bob VE3XM K2 S/N 02676 K2/100 S/N 04031 ___ 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] Bandscope
Ah. That must be new, then. The band scope seems to use the same method as mine, but it's a bit slower. 73, -- Julian, G4ILO (RSGB, ARRL) G4ILO's Shack: http://www.tech-pro.net/g4ilo "michael stevenson" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Julian Have a look at Ham Radio Deluxe v3.1 Beta. This is free, supports K2 and has a bandscope. The bandscope is found under Tools. http://hrd.ham-radio.ch/ Mike G8ALS ___ 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] Interpreting Color Codes
After having built a K2, KX1 and numerous other homebrew gear, I have noted by my own observations and comments of others some confusion as to exactly what colors are being observed on small parts, usually resistors and RF chokes. Having been in the printing business for some years, I can say that color perception is often skewed by the light used for viewing. Incandescent lighting seems to be the least accurate for determining the correct colors, particularly yellows, oranges, and browns. Many times I have used sunlight (if available) or sought out a fluorescent lamp (cool white with at least 5200K temperature) to properly interpret colors. When in doubt, I use a meter to confirm the value. Geoff, K6TFZ ___ 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] Bandscope
This program suite is a winner, and it's FREE. The PSK software is spectacular! I've been using it for more than a year. Jim Brown K9YC On Wed, 26 Jan 2005 11:44:59 -, michael stevenson wrote: >Have a look at Ham Radio Deluxe v3.1 Beta. ___ 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] Bandscope
Julian Have a look at Ham Radio Deluxe v3.1 Beta. This is free, supports K2 and has a bandscope. The bandscope is found under Tools. http://hrd.ham-radio.ch/ Mike G8ALS -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.300 / Virus Database: 265.7.4 - Release Date: 25/01/2005 ___ 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] K2 Bandscope update
I've updated the little bandscope I wrote to fix the problem with unexpected messages if the K2 had previously been using another CAT program. I've also made some improvements in operation so you can more easily continue scanning the same band segment after clicking on a signal. For those who weren't sure, it REQUIRES a KIO2 and hence it's no use for any radio except a K2. And yes, it's a Windows program. Nearly 100 people downloaded the original as of midnight last night when the web stats were generated. I'd be interested in some feedback on it, particularly from those who have one of the commercial programs with a bandscope to compare it with. Those programs appear to use audio, via the sound card, to generate the bandscope. Those programs aren't available for free trial, so I can't test them to see for myself. As I wrote yesterday, this was primarily an experiment to see how to make a bandscope for the K2. It seemed to me that if I used audio, then in order to be sure the audio the program was hearing was coming from the frequency it set, the program would have to scan the band very slowly. This bandscope scans 100 1KHz segments in about 5 seconds, but it takes an S meter reading at each point and uses this to plot the activity. It doesn't look as pretty as the audio-derived bandscopes. The question is whether it does as useful a job. The download URL, for those who missed it the first time, is http://www.tech-pro.net/g4ilo/files/k2bandscope.zip . It's still just a zip file you have to install yourself, and you won't find any mention of the program in the web pages. 73, -- Julian, G4ILO (RSGB, ARRL) G4ILO's Shack: http://www.tech-pro.net/g4ilo ___ 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