[Elecraft] My bench is empty
I just shipped another K2/KPA100 radio. Let me build an Elecraft kit for you. I have built more than 100 K2's and many of the other Elecraft products. My prices are reasonable and you receive a finished radio ready to play. 73 Alan W1HYV ___ 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] Driving a linear with only 15 watts?
Lenny, My k2 is one of the better ones when it comes to IMD on PSK31. It also depends on how you operate. Any otherwise good rig will have excessive IMD if you overdrive the audio, use ALC, compression or companding. I don't recall the exact figures when I made this test, but it was a little over 30 dB out of the K2 and also out of the linear amp. That was with 20 watts out of the K2/100 and 400 watts out of the linear. That's 13 dB gain of the linear, and most linears only do about 11 dB. I don't do that much because 20-30 watts is as much power as you need on PSK31. I see a lot of excessive IMD on the bands. In my opinion, anything over 25 dB is excessive, and I have seen signals with an IMD of -10 dB, that take up 200 or more Hz bandwidth. I don't think there is a FCC spec per se, except for the requirement to use minimum bandwidth. 73, Chas, W1CG At 10:32 PM 3/8/2006, w2bvh wrote: Very interesting. What IMD values would you consider bad. ok and excellent? As examples, QST July '03 rates the ICOM 703 transmit 3rd order IMD at 24 db below PEP when running 10 watts. The March '06 QST shows the YAESU FTDX9000 3rd order IMD at 35 db below PEP when running 200 watts. 24 db below 10 watts is 40 mW +/-, a small but still respectable qrp signal that's rf junk. 24 db below 200 watts would be 1 watt +/- ! Is there an FCC mandated 3rd order IMD requirement? Inquiring minds (at least mine) want to know ;-) 73, Lenny W2BVH Charles Greene wrote: Darwin, I have a linear that has about 1000 watts output when driven with approx. 60 watts in class AB2 for CW and a little more when operating class AB1 for SSB. It's an old Hallicrafter HT33A with a PL172 pentode amplifier tube. I tried it using my K2/100 on PSK31 with 20 watts average power from the K2/100. The amp put out 400 watts ave power. The IMD coming out of the amp was identical to the IMD of the K2/100 without the amp, indicating no more distortion was added by the amp. I don't expect you to hunt for a HT33A, but the principles are the same. The efficiency is lower because of the idling power, but since it is all coming out of the power line, who cares? 73, Chas W1CG At 11:13 AM 3/8/2006, Darwin, Keith wrote: Since a linear amp is supposed to be linear, is there any reason that you have to run 65 to 100 watts into one? What if you used a linear designed for 65 watt drive and only gave it 15 watts? Does the spectral purity change? Does the efficiency drop? Does the linearity degrade? - Keith KD1E - ___ 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] General testing for key clicks: AGC
Thanks, guys. It seems my problem was one of absent mindedness. I had left the noise blanker on in my 930. The result was that I was hearing K2 key clicks that weren't actually there. Once I disabled the noise blanker, things sounded great. As you two noted, the AGC was not affecting the testing. I also took a look at the RF envelope on my scope and was pleased to see what Elecraft had shown in the key click mod document. -Michael N9BDF = Vic, K2VCO wrote: I doubt that it matters. What *does* matter is that you must listen *away* from the transmitter's frequency... == Well put, Vic. The only thing that should be added to Vic's procedure is that you should keep the power output of the transmitter being tested down enough so that the signal in the monitir receiver is S9 or less. I've tested many rigs for klix monitoring in of my many ham receivers and AGC on/off does not make a bit of difference, as long as you do it as Vic and I described (which is the *only* proper way). BTW, of the many rigs I've checked for klix, the K2 with the click mod is the cleanest of all. I believe the click mod is now incorporated in all new K2 kits. 73, de Earl, K6SE ___ 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] K2/100 Separates
I have my KPA100 KAT100 in a separate EC2 case and it all works perfectly. I used the instructions of KI6WX to assemble mine: http://home.pacbell.net/johngreb/KI6WX.html If you follow these instructions to a T, you'll be very pleased. If anyone is interested, I will be posting the sale of this great setup momentarily. I'm ready to build another K2; I'm having solder withdrawals! 73, Mark Baugh W5EZY Grenada MS __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.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] K2 with KPA/KAT Separate FS
I have the following K2 with separate KPA/KAT in an EC2 for sale and in excellent condition: K2 TRANSCEIVER s/n 4719 KPA100/KAT100 in EC2 case KSB2 SSB OPTION KIO2 RS232 I/F K160RX 160 METER KNB2 NOISE BLANKER KAF2 AUDIO FILTER FDIMP FINGER DIMPLE All cables and manuals included Price is $1600 shipped. This is basically the cost of all items, with nothing added for assembly or shipping. This radio is good to go and looks really nice. Pictures available on request. Please email off the Reflector. 73, Mark Baugh W5EZY Grenada MS __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.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] Replacing IF Crystals in K2
I finally got around to replacing the IF crystals in my K2 S/N 1422 with the new ones. Thought I might pass along the process I used to accomplish the mod. 1. I have a simple hb crystal checker that I can feed into my counter, each crystal was checked to make sure it was working. 2. I took a small file and roughed up the edges of the crystal where I was going to solder the grounds on. 3. I took Tom's NOSS advice and soldered the grounds on before installing the crystals. Iron set to about 725 degrees, pretinned the ground leads and tacked them on. 4. I rechecked the crystals with my crystal checker and they were all still working fine. 5. Removed the KSB2 and installed my KSB2 rework eliminator 6. Removed the first old crystal and ground with my Soder Wick SC-5000 desoldering tool (very similar to a Hakko 808 desoldering gun). 7. Installed the first new crystal. 8. Powered up the K2 and checked to see if it was receiving signals. 9. Unplugged power to K2 and replaced next crystal. 10 Repeated steps 6 through 9 for all the crystals. 11. Realigned K2 filter 12. Very pleased with results and wish I had done it sooner. 72, Steve Ray K4JPN ex K1VKW EM82ep Warner Robins GA Elecraft K2 1422 KPA-100 Heath Fan HW-101, HW-8 http://www.thewinstonator.com/k4jpn.htm ___ 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] K2/100 Separates
Folks, There has been considerable discussion and interest on this topic, and I believe there is one point that should be addressed: The resistor that is shown in the KI6WX instructions is not needed if your KPA100 is recent or has the upgrade kit installed. Those instructions were written before the upgrade. If your KPA100 has a jumper for R23 and L18, and C82 is not populated then you have the upgraded KPA100. The last time I looked, Lyle Johnson had a note about this in his document. Perhaps it doesn't matter if the resistor is added anyway, but I am uncertain - maybe John KI6WX can chime in here with a comment. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I have my KPA100 KAT100 in a separate EC2 case and it all works perfectly. I used the instructions of KI6WX to assemble mine: http://home.pacbell.net/johngreb/KI6WX.html If you follow these instructions to a T, you'll be very pleased. If anyone is interested, I will be posting the sale of this great setup momentarily. I'm ready to build another K2; I'm having solder withdrawals! ___ 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] Experience with Rework Eliminators
I recently completed the build of K2 SN 5295 and used the Rework Eliminators or UnModules available from Gary and Ken. There is a link to their website at the bottom of the main Elecraft web page. Thought I would offer up a summary of my experience with this approach, as relatively few new builds have been done using it. Ken and Gary now offer small kits of parts so that any future option can be added to the K2 even though the option was not purchased with the base transceiver. At the time I did my build, these part kits were not yet available from them. So I only used rework eliminators for the options that I had purchased, namely the noise blanker, DSP filter, and 160 meter adapter, and used the parts from these option kits as needed with the rework eliminators. I probably won't be adding many more, if any, options to my K2, so this approach worked well for me. For someone building a K2 with the intention of eventually adding all the bells and whistles, using all of the rework eliminators with Ken and Gary's parts kits is probably a good way to go. Ken and Gary provide VERY complete documentation. This was done to eliminate any confusion as to how the rework eliminators interface with the K2 and how the build process is altered. This is, of course, a good thing. But be aware that your initial impression may be that there is TOO MUCH documentation to absorb. The matrix tables and multi-colored drawings seem somewhat overwhelming at first. And there is indeed a commitment of time needed up front to understand what you are doing with the rework eliminators and to modify the build instructions to accommodate them. In my case, I think that I spent perhaps two hours doing this. This can seem like a LONG two hours when you are anxious to melt solder. But the time spent here is rewarded later. The build process went smoothly for me. All the test and alignment steps went well also, and the completed base K2 performed perfectly. I'm sure I would have had the same result without the rework eliminators. Next, I built and installed the options one at a time. First the internal tuner (no rework eliminator needed) then the noise blanker, then the 160 meter adapter and finally the DSP audio filter. Here is where the payback comes. I installed each option into the K2 in less than 5 minutes! No need to remove the heatsink, or add/remove jumpers and components to the K2's PC boards. Just unplug the rework eliminator and replace it with your option. In my opinion there is definitely a net time savings overall. And, if I ever want to remove any of the options for debugging purposes, it will be very easy to get the base K2 operating without any rework. The net of all this is that I'm glad I used this approach. The rework eliminators and their parts kits are very reasonably priced. The main cost is that the complexity of the documentation is increased. The main benefit is that installing and removing options is GREATLY simplified. For me, the build went seamlessly and I have a wonderfully performing K2. ... Craig AC0DS ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] K2 RX-degraded by KAF2? VCO voltages at 160m
Reply to my previous posting. Fault is not in K2, only in person who is not reading ALL instructions carefully. It is necessary to read manuals more often :) K2 RX-degraded by OH4MFA should be in subject line. When I changed my sidetone pitch to 400 Hz about year ago, did I adjust KAF2? No. So, I believe that was my mistake (I just wonder what I have missed on the bands during this period :) K2 is quite amazing rig. Still can hear good DX even rig alignment is done poorly. Today I listened Topband and heard JA station little bit after my sunset. Not usual here...maybe from now on more usual. And I can hear him with 100 Hz filter setting too. Had short QSO too (with kW). I can't wait for morning and go to search for HQ9F (heard them just readable couple of days ago). For VCO voltage I found old postings and will check is voltage topping, or do I need to adjust it. Sorry for bandwidth. 73 and CUL Jukka OH4MFA K2/100 #4293 ___ 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 - low power on 160m?
Dear all I tried to send this question to the reflector yesterday but I haven't got any responses so maybe the message did not make it onto the reflector. One more try... I finished building K2 s/n 5361 Tuesday and managed to align it on all bands 80-10m per the specs in the manual. First tests (RX only) showed a wonderfully quiet receiver with good ears. TX is well within specs, up to 15W power out. Encouraged by the FB results I started constructing the 160m extension yesterday. No worries during assembly as far as I could see. Then, after having installed the 160m PCB into the K2 I started the alignment procedure.With 2W out all was OK both on 160 and 80m, no problems peaking output power to about 2,5W. However, when I try to crank the output power up to 10W as per the instructions on p9 of the installation manual, I am unable to get more than 6W output on 160m. 80m is OK (up to 16W output). I have tried the alternative frequencies for peaking. 2W out is OK all the time, but I get no more than 6W when I should be reading 10W out. Cal Cur is set at 3.50A. Checked all solder joints, toroid winding numbers, what have you. Today I did a few additional checks. DC resistance across the two toroids L1/L2 in series (measured between pins 9 and 14 on J1) is OK, very close to 0 ohms. DC resistance between the toroid sides of C1 and C3 is also about 0 ohms. With 2W out on 1840 kHz (where I did the peaking of L3/4) I get 1,5W on 1810 and 2,2W on 1900 kHz. C68 is 10pF, C153 is 68pF, C75 470pF and C13/14 are 1200 pF. I did notice that the voltage and current readings during tx on 160m are not very stable, the readings change continuously. I listed the min and max values for E and I for a number of output power levels below: P=0,1W: E=13,9/14,0 I=0,58/0,62 P=1W: E=13,6/13/9 I=0,88/0,96 P=2W: E=13,5/13/9 I=1,08/1,14 P=5W: E=13,2/13,8 I=1,54/1,64 P=6W (Power pot at max position): E=13,1/13,8 I=1,70/1,82 I checked on other bands but this phenomenon only occurs on 160m. Where should I look? I'm fairly confident that the problem should be located somewhere in the 160m LPF as there is no sign of any problems on any other band. I checked the forum archives for clues. I did find an article pointing to the capacitor values mentioned earlier but I've got the correct values installed. Any ideas? Tnx for your help. 73 de ON4WIX Glenn ___ 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] Using a KAT100 without a KIO2
Hello All, I plan to soon add the KAT100 to my K2 and eventually add the KPA100 (but probably not soon given budgetary constraints). I'd rather not have to buy a KIO2 with the KAT100, since it will come with the KPA100. On KK7P's web page describing remoting the KAT100, there is a circuit diagram for using the KAT100 without a KIO2, with a note that says it is untested. The risk is entirely yours. Has anyone used this circuit to avoid having to purchase a KIO2 with the KAT100, and 1) does it work? 2) is there any differences to the operation of the KAT100 with the K2? Are there other inexpensive alternatives? Thanks. Bob Solosko W1SRB ___ 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 - low power on 160m?
Glenn, The most likely reason you did not get a response is that none of us have a good immediate answer. I suggest that you look at the RF voltages at the collector and base of Q5, Q6 and Q7/Q8 to determine where the problem is located. You can use a 'scope or an RF Probe to check the RF voltage levels (if using an RF probe, do not measure the collectors of Q7/Q8, you may zap the diode). Compare the readings obtained on 80 meters with those obtained on 160 meters. What you are looking for is a stage that has lower gain on 160 meters, so the measurements may be a bit more complex than a simple comparison - the K2 power output control may try to push the RF voltages on 160 higher trying to produce more output - so do the comparisons at a power level that your K2 is capable of delivering on 160 meters (the 2 or 3 watt level should do fine). 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Dear all I tried to send this question to the reflector yesterday but I haven't got any responses so maybe the message did not make it onto the reflector. One more try... I finished building K2 s/n 5361 Tuesday and managed to align it on all bands 80-10m per the specs in the manual. First tests (RX only) showed a wonderfully quiet receiver with good ears. TX is well within specs, up to 15W power out. Encouraged by the FB results I started constructing the 160m extension yesterday. No worries during assembly as far as I could see. Then, after having installed the 160m PCB into the K2 I started the alignment procedure.With 2W out all was OK both on 160 and 80m, no problems peaking output power to about 2,5W. However, when I try to crank the output power up to 10W as per the instructions on p9 of the installation manual, I am unable to get more than 6W output on 160m. 80m is OK (up to 16W output). I have tried the alternative frequencies for peaking. 2W out is OK all the time, but I get no more than 6W when I should be reading 10W out. Cal Cur is set at 3.50A. Checked all solder joints, toroid winding numbers, what have you. ___ 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] Microphone header jumper plug
Tom, N0SS, has an excellent article on his website about cutting an IDE hard drive connector in half and using it as a plug for the microphone header on the front panel board. I just did one and it is a breeze. For those who have not seen this handily little hint, visit this site: http://www.n0ss.net/k2_mic_cfg_hdr.pdf and download that article. I am sure it will come in handy! Thanks Tom! 73, Charlie, W0YG.. ___ 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] N2CQ QRP Contest Calendar:
~~ N2CQ QRP CONTEST CALENDAR March 9 - April 9, 2006 ~~ 40 METER FOXHUNT - Each Friday 0200z to 0329z (Thurs 9 PM to 10:29 PM EST)(Ends Mar 9) Info: http://www.qrpfoxhunt.org ~~ Pesky Texan Armadillo Chase (CW) *** QRP Contest *** Mar 9, 0230z to 0400z Rules: http://www.w5nc.org/ptac/default.htm ~~ Idaho QSO Party (Ph/CW/Dig) ... QRP Category Mar 11, 1300z to Mar 12, 0100z and Mar 12, 1300z to Mar 13, 0100z Rules: http://www.ida.net/users/k0ip/parc/old_newsletters/Idaho_QSO.htm ~~ Oklahoma QSO Party (CW/Digital/Phone) ... QRP Category Mar 11, 1400z to Mar 12, 0200z and Mar 12, 1400z to Mar 12, 2000z Rules: http://okdxa.org ~~ AGCW QRP Contest (CW) ... QRP/QRPp Category Mar 11, 1400z to 2000z Rules: http://www.agcw.org/agcw-con/2006/Englisch/agcw_qrp_e.htm ~~ Elecraft QSO Party (CW/SSB/Dig) ...QRP Category Mar 11, 1500z to Mar 12, 1500z Rules: http://www.elecraft.com ~~ Second Class Operator's Club Marathon Sprint (CW) .. QRP Contest! Mar 11, 1800z to 2400z Rules: http://www.qsl.net/soc/contests.htm ~~ North American Sprint (RTTY) ... QRP Category Mar 12, z to 0400z Rules: http://www.ncjweb.com/sprintrules.php ~~ UBA (Belgian) Spring Contest (CW-80m) ... QRP Category Mar 12, 0700z to 1100z Rules: http://www.uba.be/hf_contests/rules_en.html# ~~ Wisconsin QSO Party (CW/SSB)...QRP Category Mar 12, 1800z to Mar 13, 0100z Rules: http://www.warac.org/index.htm ~~ NAQCC Straight Key/Bug Sprint *** QRP CONTEST! *** EST: Mar 15, 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM UTC: Mar 16, 0130z to 0330z Rules: http://www.arm-tek.net/~yoel/contests.html ~~ Ten-Ten Mobile QSO Party (CW/SSB) ... QRP Category Mar 18, 0001z to 2359z Rules: http://www.ten-ten.org/calendar.html ~~ BARTG Spring RTTY Contest Mar 18, 0200z to Mar 20, 0200z Rules: http://www.bartg.demon.co.uk/Contests/06_rules.htm ~~ Russian DX Contest (SSB/CW) ... QRP Category Mar 18, 1200z to Mar 19, 1200z Rules: http://www.rdxc.org/rulesg.asp ~~ AGCW VHF/UHF Contest (CW) ... QRP Category Mar 18, 1600z to 2100z Rules: http://www.agcw.org/agcw-con/2006/Englisch/agcw-dl0_e.htm ~~ Virginia QSO Party (CW/SSB/Dig) ... QRP Category Mar 18, 1800z to Mar 20, 0200z Rules: http://www.qsl.net/sterling/VA_QSO_Party/2006_VQP_Rules.html ~~ RUN FOR THE BACON (CW) *** QRP CONTEST *** EST: Mar 19, 9 PM to 11 PM UTC: Mar 20, 0200z 0400z Rules: http://fpqrp.com ~~ Atlanticon Mar 24 - 25 Info: http://www.njqrp.org/ ~~ CQ World-Wide WPX Contest (SSB) ... QRP Category Mar 25, z to Mar 26, 2359z Rules: http://www.cq-amateur-radio.com/awards.html ~~ Spring QRP Homebrewer Sprint (CW/PSK31) ... QRP Contest Mar 27, z to 0400z (Sunday Mar 26, 7PM to 11PM EST) Rules: http://www.njqrp.org/data/qrphomebrewersprint.html ~~ QRP BARBERSHOP QUARTET CONTEST (CW QRP)... QRP Contest! Mar 29, 9 PM to 11 PM EST Rules: http://www.io.com/~n5fc/barbershop_contest.htm ~~ SP DX Contest (CW/SSB) ... QRP Category Apr 1, 1500z to Apr 2, 1500z Rules: http://www.contest.spdxc.org.pl/reg/reg_g.html ~~ EA RTTY Contest Apr 1, 1600z to Apr 2, 1600z Rules: http://www.rttycontesting.com/rules/earttyrules2006.pdf ~~ Missouri QSO Party (ALL) Apr 1, 1800z to Apr 2, 0500z Apr 2, 1800z to Apr 2, 2400z Rules: http://www.qsl.net/w0ma/contests.htm ~~ ARS Spartan Sprint (CW) ... QRP Contest!! Apr 4, 0100z to 0300z (First Monday 9 PM EDT) Rules: http://www.arsqrp.com/
[Elecraft] K2 SSB
On a whim, I decided to order the SSB upgrade capacitor kit for my K2 Serial #4331 as I never have been happy with the SSB audio. While trying to decipher the tech sheet (installation instructions) I notice that it shows no caps in place for CB and CN. It was my understanding that Serial 4331 should have a 2.4 filter setup. My crystals are marked with the 4.9136-S, so I am assuming its a late kit. I just pulled out MY manual and it shows installing CB and CN and does not look like the manual on the Elecraft site that says to leave them out. I have no erata sheet with my K2 stuff. So I am wondering if Elecraft just shipped me an old manual?? Anything else I should look for that has changed between manual revisions? 73, Rich kd0zv ___ 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 SSB
Rich, All I can say is that if you have CB and CN populated, either you have the 2.1 kHz filter or that you made some mistake in pluging the capacitors (the latter not likely since you indicate the capacitors called for in your manual). I can confirm that the 49136-S crystals are the new type. In any case, all you need to do is change the capacitors to those required for the new bandwidth and you should be 'good to go'. I have not compared the manuals in detail, but as far as I have observed in several KSB2 builds, the only recent change to the KSB2 manual has been the filter width change information and the prior errata information has been incorporated into the new manual. Other than the firmware changes to support the K60XV option and the addition of the bandwidth information, the KSB2 has been quite stable for some time. Whe you finish, you should have no caps in the CB and CN positions. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- On a whim, I decided to order the SSB upgrade capacitor kit for my K2 Serial #4331 as I never have been happy with the SSB audio. While trying to decipher the tech sheet (installation instructions) I notice that it shows no caps in place for CB and CN. It was my understanding that Serial 4331 should have a 2.4 filter setup. My crystals are marked with the 4.9136-S, so I am assuming its a late kit. I just pulled out MY manual and it shows installing CB and CN and does not look like the manual on the Elecraft site that says to leave them out. I have no erata sheet with my K2 stuff. So I am wondering if Elecraft just shipped me an old manual?? Anything else I should look for that has changed between manual revisions? 73, Rich kd0zv ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 268.2.1/277 - Release Date: 3/8/2006 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K2 SSB
Well I dont know :) The manual they sent says revision D and January 2004. This manual shows installing CB and CN and the last one on their site says leave it out. It also calls CG/CH a 47 pf capacitor. According to the new update sheet, only the original 2.1 SSB used a 47 pf cap in CG/CH. So I am confused. This would mean I have -s crystals and old caps ! I installed the parts and I obviouslly have something wrong. The OP1 filter is severally attenuationed. It works, but is several DB down from what it should me. Thanks for the response guys. Back to checking things over. 73, Rich - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Rich McCabe [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 6:52 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K2 SSB Rich, All I can say is that if you have CB and CN populated, either you have the 2.1 kHz filter or that you made some mistake in pluging the capacitors (the latter not likely since you indicate the capacitors called for in your manual). I can confirm that the 49136-S crystals are the new type. In any case, all you need to do is change the capacitors to those required for the new bandwidth and you should be 'good to go'. I have not compared the manuals in detail, but as far as I have observed in several KSB2 builds, the only recent change to the KSB2 manual has been the filter width change information and the prior errata information has been incorporated into the new manual. Other than the firmware changes to support the K60XV option and the addition of the bandwidth information, the KSB2 has been quite stable for some time. Whe you finish, you should have no caps in the CB and CN positions. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- On a whim, I decided to order the SSB upgrade capacitor kit for my K2 Serial #4331 as I never have been happy with the SSB audio. While trying to decipher the tech sheet (installation instructions) I notice that it shows no caps in place for CB and CN. It was my understanding that Serial 4331 should have a 2.4 filter setup. My crystals are marked with the 4.9136-S, so I am assuming its a late kit. I just pulled out MY manual and it shows installing CB and CN and does not look like the manual on the Elecraft site that says to leave them out. I have no erata sheet with my K2 stuff. So I am wondering if Elecraft just shipped me an old manual?? Anything else I should look for that has changed between manual revisions? 73, Rich kd0zv ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 268.2.1/277 - Release Date: 3/8/2006 ___ 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] Amazed
I know I shouldn't use bandwidth to pass information that everyone already knows, but..I had to tell someone. I have K2 #2571 that I built a few years ago and recently added the KDSP2 and KPA100. I just worked a VE3 on 80 meters, no big deal right! The band was very noisy. I had to crank in both IFand DSP filters to the max. Finally I was able to copy pretty well. After the QSO ended I wanted to hear what was going on without the filters. QRN level of 20-30 over S9. You could not tell there was another station on frequency. There is absolutely no way I would have been able to make that QSO if not for the excellent filtering in the K2. After years of using this radio, I still am amazed by it. Just want to tell somebody. Thanks Brent WB4X ___ 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] k4jpn
Stephen if you are monitoring the reflector please email me. Bill Scovell/VK4SQ ___ 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 SSB
Rich, There is no direct relationship between the crystals and the caps for the 2.4 and 2.6 kHz bandwidth filters. Sorry to hear about the attenuation - check the soldering and re-check the soldering of T1, T2, RFC1 and RFC2. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Rich McCabe Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 10:11 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 SSB Well I dont know :) The manual they sent says revision D and January 2004. This manual shows installing CB and CN and the last one on their site says leave it out. It also calls CG/CH a 47 pf capacitor. According to the new update sheet, only the original 2.1 SSB used a 47 pf cap in CG/CH. So I am confused. This would mean I have -s crystals and old caps ! I installed the parts and I obviouslly have something wrong. The OP1 filter is severally attenuationed. It works, but is several DB down from what it should me. Thanks for the response guys. Back to checking things over. 73, Rich - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Rich McCabe [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 6:52 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K2 SSB Rich, All I can say is that if you have CB and CN populated, either you have the 2.1 kHz filter or that you made some mistake in pluging the capacitors (the latter not likely since you indicate the capacitors called for in your manual). I can confirm that the 49136-S crystals are the new type. In any case, all you need to do is change the capacitors to those required for the new bandwidth and you should be 'good to go'. I have not compared the manuals in detail, but as far as I have observed in several KSB2 builds, the only recent change to the KSB2 manual has been the filter width change information and the prior errata information has been incorporated into the new manual. Other than the firmware changes to support the K60XV option and the addition of the bandwidth information, the KSB2 has been quite stable for some time. Whe you finish, you should have no caps in the CB and CN positions. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- On a whim, I decided to order the SSB upgrade capacitor kit for my K2 Serial #4331 as I never have been happy with the SSB audio. While trying to decipher the tech sheet (installation instructions) I notice that it shows no caps in place for CB and CN. It was my understanding that Serial 4331 should have a 2.4 filter setup. My crystals are marked with the 4.9136-S, so I am assuming its a late kit. I just pulled out MY manual and it shows installing CB and CN and does not look like the manual on the Elecraft site that says to leave them out. I have no erata sheet with my K2 stuff. So I am wondering if Elecraft just shipped me an old manual?? Anything else I should look for that has changed between manual revisions? 73, Rich kd0zv ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 268.2.1/277 - Release Date: 3/8/2006 ___ 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 -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 268.2.1/277 - Release Date: 3/8/2006 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K2 SSB
There is no direct relationship between the crystals and the caps for the 2.4 and 2.6 kHz bandwidth filters. I thought they came at the same time? So its possible to have the -s crystals in a 2.1 khz setup? Rich - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Rich McCabe [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 9:23 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K2 SSB Rich, There is no direct relationship between the crystals and the caps for the 2.4 and 2.6 kHz bandwidth filters. Sorry to hear about the attenuation - check the soldering and re-check the soldering of T1, T2, RFC1 and RFC2. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Rich McCabe Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 10:11 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 SSB Well I dont know :) The manual they sent says revision D and January 2004. This manual shows installing CB and CN and the last one on their site says leave it out. It also calls CG/CH a 47 pf capacitor. According to the new update sheet, only the original 2.1 SSB used a 47 pf cap in CG/CH. So I am confused. This would mean I have -s crystals and old caps ! I installed the parts and I obviouslly have something wrong. The OP1 filter is severally attenuationed. It works, but is several DB down from what it should me. Thanks for the response guys. Back to checking things over. 73, Rich - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Rich McCabe [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 6:52 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K2 SSB Rich, All I can say is that if you have CB and CN populated, either you have the 2.1 kHz filter or that you made some mistake in pluging the capacitors (the latter not likely since you indicate the capacitors called for in your manual). I can confirm that the 49136-S crystals are the new type. In any case, all you need to do is change the capacitors to those required for the new bandwidth and you should be 'good to go'. I have not compared the manuals in detail, but as far as I have observed in several KSB2 builds, the only recent change to the KSB2 manual has been the filter width change information and the prior errata information has been incorporated into the new manual. Other than the firmware changes to support the K60XV option and the addition of the bandwidth information, the KSB2 has been quite stable for some time. Whe you finish, you should have no caps in the CB and CN positions. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- On a whim, I decided to order the SSB upgrade capacitor kit for my K2 Serial #4331 as I never have been happy with the SSB audio. While trying to decipher the tech sheet (installation instructions) I notice that it shows no caps in place for CB and CN. It was my understanding that Serial 4331 should have a 2.4 filter setup. My crystals are marked with the 4.9136-S, so I am assuming its a late kit. I just pulled out MY manual and it shows installing CB and CN and does not look like the manual on the Elecraft site that says to leave them out. I have no erata sheet with my K2 stuff. So I am wondering if Elecraft just shipped me an old manual?? Anything else I should look for that has changed between manual revisions? 73, Rich kd0zv ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 268.2.1/277 - Release Date: 3/8/2006 ___ 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 -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.375 / Virus Database: 268.2.1/277 - Release Date: 3/8/2006 ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K2 SSB
Yes, that is entirely possible, and in your case it looks like that is the situation. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I thought they came at the same time? So its possible to have the -s crystals in a 2.1 khz setup? Rich ___ 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 SSB
Well I think so too. So one step forward and one step back. Got it working. Was a bad solder joint. Sure looked good but did not test out with the meter ! Some of those caps are in rather tight spots :) So the last step back was during reassembly. The center connector on the RF cable where it solders to the 100watt board broke loose. That looks like its gonna be a little work. Cant get at the side of the board I need without taking it apart. Dont think anyway. Back to soldering. Thanks Don. All is good now. This 2.6 should sound a LOT different than the 2.1. Hope so anyway. 73, Rich - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Rich McCabe [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 9:44 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K2 SSB Yes, that is entirely possible, and in your case it looks like that is the situation. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I thought they came at the same time? So its possible to have the -s crystals in a 2.1 khz setup? Rich ___ 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] EQP: second-to-last reminder
The Elecraft QSO party is this weekend (1500z March 11 to 1500z March 12; you can operate any number of hours during this period). For details, click on the EQP 2006 link on our home page. 73, Wayne N6KR --- 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
