RE: [Elecraft] New product idea
Yea, that's what I'm thinking. Can it be tied to the ALC line in an Elecraft rig? I still think it would be a fabulous accessory for the fine Elecraft folks to make... - Keith - From: G8IFF/KC8NHF [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2006 6:23 PM To: Darwin, Keith Subject: Re: [Elecraft] New product idea You mean something like this. *pic of LDG meter snipped* Darwin, Keith wrote: Hey guys, The K1 is a great rig ... but ... I sure miss a real S-meter. I'd love to see Elecraft make an external S / Pwr meter that hooks to the K1 or K2. - Keith KD1E - - K1, Omni V - ___ ___ 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: KXPD-1 Paddle
Paul wrote, I would be very interested in hearing your opinions about the KXPD1 . I've been using a Whiterook Products MK-64 mini keyer/paddle for a few years now .. I also liked the feel of the Whiterook double lever paddle so I took mine apart and took a block of Corian plastic (left over from a bathroom re-hab project years ago), cut a 45 degree surface on it, and rigged up a mounting for the Whiterook levers. Added a captive 6-32 screw and a mini plug, and now I have a substitute for the KXPD-1 that mounts to the radio and I like the feel of it a lot. If anyone wants details e-mail me and I'll try to take a picture. 73 Ray K2HYD ___ 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] Rover progress - transverter builds
Moving along in the direction of the mostly-all-Elecraft rover station, I've completed the 50 and 144Mhz transverters and should wrap up the 222 this evening. As expected, the Elecraft transverters were enjoyable to build and worked the first time (once I corrected my jumper config screwups). I did find a small problem with my K60XV during testing .. the input coax center conductor had detached from the BNC connector. Initial tests indicate performance at least as specified (and maybe a bit better). Going to do noise figure and sensitivity testing next week, but casual beacon listening and comparison to a DEMI/TS-850 looked very promising. The physical layout is very nice also .. K8ISK and I are working on building new side panels which will attach to each of the 4 XVs and tie them into a single unit, spaced convienently to allow BNC T and barrels to connect them together (might even extend them to the K2, which would make a monolithic 160M-70cm station with the footprint of the K2). Current plans are to drive the beast to Dayton for show+tell and shakedown prior to the June test .. if it doesn't end up in the flea market it'll be at the FDIM hotel. Contact me closer to the date for personal tours :) de w1rt/john ___ 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 iambic modes
Is the manual incorrect on the menu mode for Iambic? It lists Iambic A as being the easier to operate. I believe it should state Iambic B. 73s john-n3drk ___ 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 iambic modes
Either statement would be wrong to some fists. Use the one you learned. If you are learning, I suggest B. Others might suggest A. Good luck! Dan / WG4S / Southpaw B'er / K2 #2456 snip Is the manual incorrect on the menu mode for Iambic? It lists Iambic A as being the easier to operate. I believe it should state Iambic B. ___ 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 iambic modes
Maybe easier is all relative. If you learned on Iambic A then it is easier, if you learned on Iambic B then it is probably easier. The one that is more difficult is probably the one that you didn't learn on. I didn't learn both and am not fully aware of the subtle differences between the two. I do know that I was glad there was an option because whatever the default value was didn't work well for my sending style! I found the menu option and it became just as easy as sending with other electronic keyers that I was already used to. Mark, NK8Q From: n3drk [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed Jan 25 10:01:11 CST 2006 To: elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] k2 iambic modes Is the manual incorrect on the menu mode for Iambic? It lists Iambic A as being the easier to operate. I believe it should state Iambic B. 73s john-n3drk ___ 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 iambic modes
Rule of thumb...if you expect no more dits after you let go of the paddle, use mode A.. If you like having a dit added because you held onto the dah paddle a bit too long use mode B. Which is easier? When I let go of the paddle I want the dit or dah that I am hearing to be the last thing sent...Mode A. - Original Message - From: Dan Barker [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2006 11:27 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] k2 iambic modes Either statement would be wrong to some fists. Use the one you learned. If you are learning, I suggest B. Others might suggest A. Good luck! Dan / WG4S / Southpaw B'er / K2 #2456 snip Is the manual incorrect on the menu mode for Iambic? It lists Iambic A as being the easier to operate. I believe it should state Iambic B. ___ 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 iambic modes
Folks, The fact that mode B can send a dit just by holding the dah paddle a bit longer has always boggled my mind - if I want a dit, I feel I should tap the dit paddle!!! Mode B can drive me nuts. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Tom Althoff Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2006 11:52 AM To: elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] k2 iambic modes Rule of thumb...if you expect no more dits after you let go of the paddle, use mode A.. If you like having a dit added because you held onto the dah paddle a bit too long use mode B. Which is easier? When I let go of the paddle I want the dit or dah that I am hearing to be the last thing sent...Mode A. ___ 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] MacLogger and CW KEYER
Kalkwarf Robert wrote: Hi, has anyone interfaced the K2 using MacLogger on a PowerBook G4 with the new CW KEYER by microHAM? I cannot seem to get MackLogger to OPEN the Port. It is listed in the PANEL but when I select VFO it says it cannot open the port. I installed the latest Nov 2005 driver pkg from FTDI corporation Yes, I do know that I can send CW via IOP. I am just looking for more noise isolation and figured the Opto-Isolaters of the CW KEYER would provide that for me. Any help? I'm a couple of hours away from the Mac K2 I use together, so I can't check, but as I recall to make the Microkeyer work required a) clicking the mH box to let MacLoggerDX know it's dealing with a Microkeyer, b) choosing the right port speed, c) untoggling DTR and RTS. Also make sure you're using the latest version of MacLoggerDX - Don has recently added the ability to toggle type-ahead and also auto character spacing with the Microkeyer. If this doesn't work, drop a note to Don Agro (author of MacLoggerDX) - he's great about support, and when I had questions he brought the Microham folks into the loop as well. /Paul W3PH ___ 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 iambic modes
Southpaw means Left Handed (That's the hand to use, well, never mind). B'er means I send iambic mode B. I can't make A work at all. It leaves out elements I intend. I don't know what all the fuss about extra dits from the dah paddle is all about. The timing is simply different for completing what you are doing when you quit doing it. Different and Bad are two distinct concepts (tell that to a racist). I believe B is more prevalent than A, but someone who's learned A will have a great deal of difficulty with B, and vice versa. I guess I learned on B - I KNOW I learned on a Heathkit HD-1410. I also think the K2 defaults to A, and I thought I'd lost my mind (or fist, at least) when I first tried to use it. Luckily, I didn't fight that fight very long. I found the menu setting to change. In any case, there is an excellent comparison of the two, with timing diagrams, referred to somewhere in the archives of this reflector. Might be interesting reading if you haven't learned one or the other already. The fru-fru is about character completion. If I want to send a C, as in CQ, I squeeze the paddles. I'll be sure the dah paddle closes first and since I'm holding both, the keyer will send dahdidahdidahdidahdidahdit until I let go. I let go OF BOTH paddles during the second dah. Character completion sends another dit and the C is complete. I believe the A camp has to hold both paddles (or only the dit on - doesn't matter) until the final dit begins, and then let go. My addled brain can let go of both during a dah at three times the speed it can manage to let go of both during a dit. So, I'm a B'er. Another thing which makes Iambic keying shine, is element insertion. I believe it's the same in both (if there's a difference, it's going to be WHEN you do the insertion, not IF you can do the insertion). To send a Q, you mash the dah paddle and hold it until the character is complete. During the second dah, dab at the dit paddle. Between the second and third dah, the keyer will stick in one dit, making the Q perfect. So, CQ is squeeze (dah-first) release dah insert a dit release (dah) in both modes. But the timing is what is different. Clear as mud? Dan / WG4S / K2 #2456 snip Thanks Dan. By the way what is a Southpaw B'er? And we must have purchased our K2's within days. My serial number is 2444. 73s john /snip ___ 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
Hi, have elecraft ever considered an adaper for the k2 to drive an oszilloscope as bandscope? Could be a helpful aid at least for people running the VHF-transverters. 73 Karsten DK4AS ___ 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
Karsten Eppert(DK4AS) wrote: Hi, have elecraft ever considered an adaper for the k2 to drive an oszilloscope as bandscope? Could be a helpful aid at least for people running the VHF-transverters. 73 Karsten DK4AS Karsten, the answer may be even cheaper. There is on going development in the ham radio circles with Software Defined Radios, or SDR. Look at this web site for a $ 28.00 kit you can build: http://www.hamsdr.com/login.aspx (create a new user with the new user button below) Some pictures of one built: http://www.tracey.org/wjt/sdr1k/SoftRock40/SRV5-pics/ These little boards give you a 40 or 20 meter receiver, with a moderate bandwidth (depending on your sound card). I use an external M-Audio Transit, which has 96 kHz sampling, and plugs in via the USB. My thought on this little unit is to get a crystal for 4.915 MHz, and tap the IF of the K2, and then monitor the bandscope on the computer. I just haven't gotten time to modify one of the two units I ordered. I was rather stunned when my wife and I walked in the Holland, MI club meeting last Tuesday night, and fellow K2'r Dave, WD8PUO had brought his $ 28 SDR kit to the club for a show and tell. Is any one else on the list experimenting with this SDR as a bandscope for the K2? Tom K8TB K2 # 3206 5050 ___ 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 iambic modes
Well, that isn't iambic, so maybe it won't matter. You should try squeeze keying some time. Dial it back to 9 wpm and really pay attention to what it's doing while you try to minimize what you are doing with your fingers. You'll send faster, and with less fatigue. Also, the key will stay in one place on the operating tableg. I'm sure, slapper or not, you make use of some of the keyer logic, such that an N is dah paddle, dit paddle, with both of them made and broken before the first element is complete. It's only natural. You probably do: dah dah dit dit close open close open while the keyer does: daahdiit whereas I probably do: dah dit release close close both while the keyer does: daahdiit Not a lot of difference in effort or the keyer results. The only big deal is on the interesting (from the point of view of Iambic) characters: C, F, K, L, Q, R, Y, and period. Do you really smack it four times to make an F? Dan snip Well, I'm left handed, but I send right-handed so I can still write. And, I'm part of the group (generally OT's) that just slap the paddles back and forth since my first paddle was a modified Lionel J-36. I will check and see which mode I'm using as soon as I find it in the K2 menu. I suspect it doesn't matter. Fred K6DGW /snip ___ 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] Ten Tec Argosy II
Guy's For those of you interested, I've just seen a QRP Classic Ten Tec Argosy II (digital dial version), in beautiful shape, complete with matching PSU etc.. on that internet site that can't be mentioned, ... Just thought you ought to know, the person has other things also..for those of you who mite find it interesting. 72's Andy GM0NWI ___ 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 iambic modes
At 11:21 AM 2006-01-25, Dan Barker wrote: The fru-fru is about character completion. If I want to send a C, as in CQ, I squeeze the paddles. I'll be sure the dah paddle closes first and since I'm holding both, the keyer will send dahdidahdidahdidahdidahdit until I let go. I let go OF BOTH paddles during the second dah. Character completion sends another dit and the C is complete. I believe the A camp has to hold both paddles (or only the dit on - doesn't matter) until the final dit begins, and then let go. My addled brain can let go of both during a dah at three times the speed it can manage to let go of both during a dit. So, I'm a B'er. But if you only want a 'K', you have to let go during the dit (or a little after, depending on the mode B implementation). It sure would be nice (for me, anyway) to be able to custom tweak the timing to something half-way between A and B. 73, Terry N6RY ___ 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 iambic modes
That's not how a K is sent. A K is a dah with a dit-insert. I think the fru-fru _MAY_ be that it's difficult to slap the key to B, but you can to A. However, if you are squeeze keying, either will work - AFTER you learn the timing. Mode A K: dah: DAAH dit: DIT keys: Daaah dit daaah Mode B K: dah: DAAH dit: DIT keys: Daaah dit daaah Interesting, THESE are identical. The limits of where you can let go of the DAH paddle probably differ, but the normal K is the same in both A and B. Hold the DAH for the duration of the letter. Stick in a dit sometime before the end of the first dah. Maybe mode B will create an additional dah output if you release the dah inside the letter. I don't know, because that's not squeeze (iambic) keying. That's just wrong. Dan snip But if you only want a 'K', you have to let go during the dit (or a little after, depending on the mode B implementation). /snip ___ 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 iambic modes
Dan is right...it now comes down to personal touch. K can be squeezed (both paddles held and let go at the 2nd dash) or dit-inserted (while holding dash, tap dit then let go). Dan's chart shows dit inserted paddle movement. I squeeze my K's and this is where the difference between the two modes bites the A user... Mode A K squeezed looks like this. Dah lever: DAAH Dit lever: DT Keys Daaah di Dah A mode A user squeezing a K in Mode B looks like this: Dah lever: DAAH Dit lever: DIT must let go of dit paddle sooner to avoid last dit. KeysDaaah di Dah dit The 2nd example is really how a B moder would send a C but if he sat at A mode keyer he'd only get a K! It's going from one mode to the other that causes mistakes...neither mode is bad. B allows for less finger motion I believe and perhaps if it was available when I first learned iambic keying I would prefer it. I actually mix sqeeze with dot and dash insertion fingering nowadays because it seems to generate the correct letters most of the time for me. Whatever floats your boat. When the Orion first came out it ONLY offered Mode B. There were enough complaints to cause them to add mode A in an early firmware update. We are a nation divided! Code vs No Code, Bugs vs straight keys on SKN and now A'ers vs B'ers. LOL. - Original Message - From: Dan Barker [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2006 5:55 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] k2 iambic modes That's not how a K is sent. A K is a dah with a dit-insert. I think the fru-fru _MAY_ be that it's difficult to slap the key to B, but you can to A. However, if you are squeeze keying, either will work - AFTER you learn the timing. Mode A K: dah: DAAH dit: DIT keys: Daaah dit daaah Mode B K: dah: DAAH dit: DIT keys: Daaah dit daaah Interesting, THESE are identical. The limits of where you can let go of the DAH paddle probably differ, but the normal K is the same in both A and B. Hold the DAH for the duration of the letter. Stick in a dit sometime before the end of the first dah. Maybe mode B will create an additional dah output if you release the dah inside the letter. I don't know, because that's not squeeze (iambic) keying. That's just wrong. Dan snip But if you only want a 'K', you have to let go during the dit (or a little after, depending on the mode B implementation). /snip ___ 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 iambic modes
This is interesting. I learned on Iambic A, and that's what I used for years on my CMOS keyer. When I started using the Iambic A on the K2, however, I found it frustrating beyond belief. As a lark, I switched to the K2's Iambic B, and, lo, it was great. It worked as naturally to me as the A with the CMOS. So go figure. I eventually switched the CMOS to B as well, and all goes nicely. So go figure. In any event, if you're trying to determine which to use, give them both a try. Take the one that seems initially most reasonable, and then stop thinking about it. Just send. best wishes, dave belsley, w1euy On Jan 25, 2006, at 11:28 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Maybe easier is all relative. If you learned on Iambic A then it is easier, if you learned on Iambic B then it is probably easier. The one that is more difficult is probably the one that you didn't learn on. I didn't learn both and am not fully aware of the subtle differences between the two. I do know that I was glad there was an option because whatever the default value was didn't work well for my sending style! I found the menu option and it became just as easy as sending with other electronic keyers that I was already used to. Mark, NK8Q From: n3drk [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed Jan 25 10:01:11 CST 2006 To: elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] k2 iambic modes Is the manual incorrect on the menu mode for Iambic? It lists Iambic A as being the easier to operate. I believe it should state Iambic B. 73s john-n3drk ___ 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] k2 iambic modes
Har! You guys remind me of why, after 20 years on the paddles, I put my Iambic keyer on the shelf and use my Bug. Not only is it no more difficult to get the timing right, it's perfectly capable of making long dashes for zero, etc. When I do use a keyer such as the one in my KX1 for portability, I simply use it like a bug. The problem is the logic won't let me make a proper long dah for a zero. Sigh... I know, a keyer is less effort over time, but I'm one of those nuts who takes the stairs instead of the elevator too... Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Tom Althoff Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2006 3:33 PM To: Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] k2 iambic modes Dan is right...it now comes down to personal touch. K can be squeezed (both paddles held and let go at the 2nd dash) or dit-inserted (while holding dash, tap dit then let go). Dan's chart shows dit inserted paddle movement. I squeeze my K's and this is where the difference between the two modes bites the A user... Mode A K squeezed looks like this. Dah lever: DAAH Dit lever: DT Keys Daaah di Dah A mode A user squeezing a K in Mode B looks like this: Dah lever: DAAH Dit lever: DIT must let go of dit paddle sooner to avoid last dit. KeysDaaah di Dah dit The 2nd example is really how a B moder would send a C but if he sat at A mode keyer he'd only get a K! It's going from one mode to the other that causes mistakes...neither mode is bad. B allows for less finger motion I believe and perhaps if it was available when I first learned iambic keying I would prefer it. I actually mix sqeeze with dot and dash insertion fingering nowadays because it seems to generate the correct letters most of the time for me. Whatever floats your boat. When the Orion first came out it ONLY offered Mode B. There were enough complaints to cause them to add mode A in an early firmware update. We are a nation divided! Code vs No Code, Bugs vs straight keys on SKN and now A'ers vs B'ers. LOL. ___ 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] iambic modes
Don wrote: The fact that mode B can send a dit just by holding the dah paddle a bit longer has always boggled my mind - if I want a dit, I feel I should tap the dit paddle!!! Mode B can drive me nuts. Tom wrote: When I let go of the paddle I want the dit or dah that I am hearing to be the last thing sent...Mode A. The only thing that really matters is what you *learned* on. There's no speed advantage or reduction in paddle manipulation advantage in one mode or the other. Mode B timing IS much more critical than mode A because if you hold the dit paddle just a tiny little bit too long in an iambic dah-dit string, you'll get an unwanted dah, and if you hold the dah paddle just a tiny little bit too long in an iambic dit-dah string, you'll get an unwanted dit. With mode A, you only get a dit or dah if you've pushed the dit or dah paddle for it. To me, that just seems the logical way for a keyer to work. Given that there is no discernable advantage to mode B, why anyone would want a keyer to send a character element for which no paddle was depressed has always baffled me. Historically, mode B arose from a logic flaw in an early electronic keyer that eventually got advertised as a feature. But...If one is just learning iambic keying, I would recommend learning mode B rather than mode A. Some ham rig manufacturers don't give you the option of choosing the logical system, and provide mode B only (like Yaesu and Small Wonder Labs). My SWL DSW units gave me fits because they had only mode B keying (until Jackson Harbor produced a full-featured keyer with mode A option as a replacement for the stock PIC in the DSW). As much as I love my K1, I'd never buy one if Elecraft had not supplied a mode A keyer option. Yes, it's *that* important! 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] iambic modes
Mike, I fully agree with you - mode B still baffles me and causes the infrequent error. At least with mode A when I press the paddle I'll know what I'll get. The K-2 has mode A, which is a lifesaver in the pileup. When chasing DX you don't need the extra character as that is the time they will hear you. I'm curious about the Jackson Harbor aftermarket pic, I think it also increases vfo resolution to 10 Hz doesn't it? Please drop me a note off list as I might wish to upgrade my DSW-II. Regards, Joe N9JR Mike Morrow [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Mode B timing IS much more critical than mode A because if you hold the dit paddle just a tiny little bit too long in an iambic dah-dit string, you'll get an unwanted dah, and if you hold the dah paddle just a tiny little bit too long in an iambic dit-dah string, you'll get an unwanted dit. With mode A, you only get a dit or dah if you've pushed the dit or dah paddle for it. To me, that just seems the logical way for a keyer to work. Given that there is no discernable advantage to mode B, why anyone would want a keyer to send a character element for which no paddle was depressed has always baffled me. Historically, mode B arose from a logic flaw in an early electronic keyer that eventually got advertised as a feature. But...If one is just learning iambic keying, I would recommend learning mode B rather than mode A. Some ham rig manufacturers don't give you the option of choosing the logical system, and provide mode B only (like Yaesu and Small Wonder Labs). My SWL DSW units gave me fits because they had only mode B keying (until Jackson Harbor produced a full-featured keyer with mode A option as a replacement for the stock PIC in the DSW). ___ 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: Amazing K1 K2 receiver feat
Heh, in the VHF contest last weekend, I had a full QSO w/ K7YO on my 2m xverter with the antenna unplugged (and no HF antenna either). We couldn't figure out why I was so far down on 2m compared to 6... On Mon, 23 Jan 2006, Steven Pituch wrote: I think it was Kurt N. Sterba who said once he was testing a rig by sending code (a CQ) into a dummy load. When he switched back to the antenna someone was answering his CQ! Now that’s QRPp. Steph it sounds like your dummy load doesn't have ideal shielding. Something is leaking out into the ether, but I don't think it’s a problem. Steve, W2MY -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 267.14.21/236 - Release Date: 1/20/2006 ___ 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] iambic modes
Mike and all, I have given up on the internal rig keyers already. I have finally assembled my K1EL K12 keyer that I hope will solve my problems - and it is small enough that I can carry it with me to key any transceiver no matter what the transceiver manufacturer thinks is the 'best'. Certainly solves MY problem ... others can go on discussing the pros and cons, but I will be able to become acoustomed to my keyer characteristics and will not have to work around the subtle timing differences of the various internal keyers. YMMV. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Don wrote: The fact that mode B can send a dit just by holding the dah paddle a bit longer has always boggled my mind - if I want a dit, I feel I should tap the dit paddle!!! Mode B can drive me nuts. Tom wrote: When I let go of the paddle I want the dit or dah that I am hearing to be the last thing sent...Mode A. The only thing that really matters is what you *learned* on. There's no speed advantage or reduction in paddle manipulation advantage in one mode or the other. Mode B timing IS much more critical than mode A because if you hold the dit paddle just a tiny little bit too long in an iambic dah-dit string, you'll get an unwanted dah, and if you hold the dah paddle just a tiny little bit too long in an iambic dit-dah string, you'll get an unwanted dit. With mode A, you only get a dit or dah if you've pushed the dit or dah paddle for it. To me, that just seems the logical way for a keyer to work. Given that there is no discernable advantage to mode B, why anyone would want a keyer to send a character element for which no paddle was depressed has always baffled me. Historically, mode B arose from a logic flaw in an early electronic keyer that eventually got advertised as a feature. But...If one is just learning iambic keying, I would recommend learning mode B rather than mode A. Some ham rig manufacturers don't give you the option of choosing the logical system, and provide mode B only (like Yaesu and Small Wonder Labs). My SWL DSW units gave me fits because they had only mode B keying (until Jackson Harbor produced a full-featured keyer with mode A option as a replacement for the stock PIC in the DSW). As much as I love my K1, I'd never buy one if Elecraft had not supplied a mode A keyer option. Yes, it's *that* important! 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] iambic modes
Here's an informative link explaining Mode A and Mode B for anyone still scratching their head in wonderment... http://home.att.net/%7Ejacksonharbor/modeab.pdf Or http://tinyurl.com/bqr2p It's been claimed in various histories that Mode B was actually a mistake made in an early keyer, but it was a functional mistake that ops learned to use. Those operators objected to the fact that the last code element wasn't automatically sent when expected, so manufacturers like the famous Curtis who developed the first keyer application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) keyer chip, included both modes in their designs. 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] iambic modes
Don and all, I kind of do the same thing. I have an Idiom Press K3 keyer that I use for both my HF rigs. I modified the jacks on the back of the keyer to accept cables from both rigs (+ and - keying jacks) and added a small toggle switch on the front of the keyer to allow selection of either rig. I find I just didn't like the built in keyers from either rig, K2 or FT-1000MP. They're good but just different enough that I wasn't comfortable. After all the emails today concerning mode A vs B I tried them both using the keyer built into the K2. Forget A. What a mess I was making. B was much better but still a little different than the feel I get from the K3 keyer. I learned on B and that's that. Anyhow, I forget who started this topic, but just pick one mode, practice a lot and have fun. 73, Roger, W1EM -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2006 8:44 PM To: Elecraft reflector; Mike Morrow Subject: RE: [Elecraft] iambic modes Mike and all, I have given up on the internal rig keyers already. I have finally assembled my K1EL K12 keyer that I hope will solve my problems - and it is small enough that I can carry it with me to key any transceiver no matter what the transceiver manufacturer thinks is the 'best'. Certainly solves MY problem ... others can go on discussing the pros and cons, but I will be able to become acoustomed to my keyer characteristics and will not have to work around the subtle timing differences of the various internal keyers. YMMV. 73, Don W3FPR ___ 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] VFO A/B mode settings
I don't think I have a problem, it is more likely operator error. On any given band, when I switch from VFO A to B, the mode does not change to what I had previously set VFO B to. If I am LSB in VFO A and I switch to VFO B, I set the mode to CW, tune around for a while, then go back to VFO A and it remains in CW mode. It doesn't switch back to LSB for VFO A. Is this normal? I thought I remembered that the mode was saved for each VFO. I guess I need to read the manual again, after 2 years. Stan Rife W5EWA Houston, TX K2 S/N 4216 ___ 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] iambic modes
On Wednesday 25 January 2006 20:58, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: Here's an informative link explaining Mode A and Mode B for anyone still scratching their head in wonderment... http://home.att.net/%7Ejacksonharbor/modeab.pdf I have no idea, before I read about A and B, what everyone is talking about. I made an iambic keyer from G3RVM's 'ultimate' keyer (Mk2) published in the RSGB's Radio Communication, February 1980. It has auto charcter spacing, the addition in that design to the original in May 1977. I would love to reverse engineer the gates and flipflops to write such a keyer for a modern microcontroller. I am not up to doing that without a serious learning curve. I have written one, with such spacing, but it doesn't feel quite the same. I have given up on iambic completely now. I can't stand inaccurate sending with extra dits and dahs and don't trust myself. I programmed a PIC 16F628 to connect to a standard AT keyboard, internal to the keyboard, and produce morse as the keys are pressed, in otherwords, a keyboard keyer. It has one component and an external regulated power supply, a wallwart from RadioShack. Ian, G4ICV, AB2GR, K2 #4962 -- ___ 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] iambic modes
Oh NO - there is yet a 3rd one - the 'ultimatic'!!! (and maybe there is a 4th and 5th as well). As I said, I will just get used to my own keyer and be done with it. What is 'better' is a matter of individual tastes, prior experience, and just plain old 'my method is best' - Decide what you are most comfortable with and make your own CW the best that you can - the paddle technique is not important, but the result (good CW out) is what is to be the proper goal. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I have no idea, before I read about A and B, what everyone is talking about. I made an iambic keyer from G3RVM's 'ultimate' keyer (Mk2) published in the RSGB's Radio Communication, February 1980. It has auto charcter spacing, the addition in that design to the original in May 1977. ___ 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] iambic modes
For those who struggle with iambic keying, I thought this analysis written by Marshall Emm (N1FN) particularly enlightening: -Original Message- Subject: [QRP-L] Twin or single paddle? ... Recently it dawned on me just how little I'm gaining from the iambic keying as I read this great article: http://www.morsex.com/pubs/iambicmyth.pdf 73, Steve aa8af -Original Message- Subject: RE: [Elecraft] iambic modes Here's an informative link explaining Mode A and Mode B for anyone still scratching their head in wonderment... http://home.att.net/%7Ejacksonharbor/modeab.pdf Or http://tinyurl.com/bqr2p It's been claimed in various histories that Mode B was actually a mistake made in an early keyer, but it was a functional mistake that ops learned to use. Those operators objected to the fact that the last code element wasn't automatically sent when expected, so manufacturers like the famous Curtis who developed the first keyer application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) keyer chip, included both modes in their designs. ___ 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] iambic modes
On Wednesday 25 January 2006 23:07, Don Wilhelm wrote: Oh NO - there is yet a 3rd one - the 'ultimatic'!!! (and maybe there is a 4th and 5th as well). Don, Are you sure the ultimatic follows the Mk 2 in 1980? I have the 1980 magazine but joined the RSGB in 1979, so don't have the May 1977 issue. Perhaps the ultimatic is that one. As I said, I will just get used to my own keyer and be done with it. What is 'better' is a matter of individual tastes, prior experience, and just plain old 'my method is best' - Decide what you are most comfortable with and make your own CW the best that you can - the paddle technique is not important, but the result (good CW out) is what is to be the proper goal. I use a straight key most of the time and have no need of my keyboard keyer yet because my receiving speed has slipped to about 20 wpm. I built G3RVM's keyer in the heady days of September 1979, six months after just passing the 12 wpm test, because I couldn't send at 30+ wpm with a straight key. My receiving speed is increasing with the regular listening I'm doing with the K2. I'm really anticipating the context switch to hearing whole words again: that happened around 25 wpm for me. Ian, G4ICV, AB2GR, K2 #4962 -- ___ 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] iambic modes
On Jan 25, 2006, at 11:37 PM, Steve wrote: For those who struggle with iambic keying, I thought this analysis written by Marshall Emm (N1FN) particularly enlightening: Ah; I suspect this may be the same guy who wrote the original article on why a bumble bee can't fly. Seriously, for those of you who are wondering all about this iambic stuff, the answer is simple. Stop listening to all this advice (and I guess you can include this message as well) and just play around with it for yourself. If you like it, great. If you don't, that's fine too. I suspect you'll find, however, that, if you like it, you'll like it a lot, regardless of what anyone else says. best wishes, dave belsley, w1euy ___ 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] iambic modes
David A. Belsley wrote: On Jan 25, 2006, at 11:37 PM, Steve wrote: For those who struggle with iambic keying, I thought this analysis written by Marshall Emm (N1FN) particularly enlightening: Ah; I suspect this may be the same guy who wrote the original article on why a bumble bee can't fly. Actually, Marshall Emm is one of the most knowledgeable people on Morse Code and Morse Code generating equipment that many of us know. To paraphrase the old commercial, When Marshall talks I listen. To listen to Marshall work a QRP pile-up is a thing of beauty. The man knows his stuff. 73 de Larry W2LJ ___ 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] iambic modes
Dave W1EUY wrote: Stop listening to all this advice (and I guess you can include this message as well) and just play around with it for yourself. If you like it, great. If you don't, that's fine too. I suspect you'll find, however, that, if you like it, you'll like it a lot, regardless of what anyone else says. --- Great Dave! And the reader can do something else with your excellent advice: enter any subject relating to Ham radio on the subject line. It's a perfect way to approach our hobby! 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] Making QSOs on a dummy load
Remember folks the old Heathkit Cantenna was known for the amazing number of QSOs that could be carried out on it considering it's not supposed to enable any at all. 73 de Alex nS6y ___ 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] Making QSOs on a dummy load
In the old days in the UK, there use to be a non-radiating Artificial Aerial Licence. An Artificial Aerial consisted of R L C which represented the impedance characteristics of an actual antenna. It is surprising how many QSOs were had using those devices. 73 de David G4DMP In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Alexandra Carter [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Remember folks the old Heathkit Cantenna was known for the amazing number of QSOs that could be carried out on it considering it's not supposed to enable any at all. 73 de Alex nS6y ___ 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
