Re: [Elecraft] Black Widow paddle kit
No financial support / interest here, but all I can say after 24 hours fieldday work last week-end ( clubstn ON4SNW/P ) the black widow paddle SN#30 has done an outstanding job ! ( 595 QSO's ) http://users.skynet.be/on6wj/bw1.JPG 73's to all Josef ON6WJ/OP5R G-QRP#429 - Original Message - From: Timothy A. Raymer [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: David Pratt [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 11:09 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Black Widow paddle kit This paddle was on display at Dayton, (If memory serves me correctly) and I got to use it. I observed the same thing, but if you like wider spacing, I remember that you can flip the arms so the paddles mount outside and push on the brass. Might also be simple enough to add a piece of brass stock that the screw pushes against to reinforce things. Tim Raymer 73 de KA0OUV K2 #1383 At 15:59 06/05/2006, David Pratt wrote: http://www.w5jh.net/Black_Widow.htm It looks to be a fine piece of engineering, Eric, apart from the paddles which seem very fragile. Considering that the force of the thumb and index finger will be pushing against the paddles which only have a screw head supporting them, my guess is that one would need to be very light fisted. Just an observation from the picture - I could be wrong. Timothy A. Raymer Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services traymer[at]mail.mo.govRaymeT[at]dhss.mo.gov KA0OUV[at]arrl.net ___ 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] Black Widow paddle kit
From the looks of it, the paddles themselves are guitar picks - which are easy to get replacements for, and REALLY hard to break (essentially can't be), esp. the heavier thicknesses, which is what it looks like are on the paddle in the picture. I think you guys may make me decide to get one. It looks like a neat little key! Speaking of neat little keys, I recently got a code mite key from Vibroplex, which is a little straight key, and it's neat! I really like this little key. 73 de Alex NS6Y It looks to be a fine piece of engineering, Eric, apart from the paddles which seem very fragile. Considering that the force of the thumb and index finger will be pushing against the paddles which only have a screw head supporting them, my guess is that one would need to be very light fisted. Just an observation from the picture - I could be wrong. Timothy A. Raymer Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services ___ 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] Rough CW Note - Problem/Solution
I found both a problem and a solution. I'm posting this in hopes someone else can benefit from my experience. During last night's Spartan Sprint I got a report from a friend that my CW signal was 597 with poor tone. He said it had an AC power sound. I listened with a second receiver and confirmed a rough note. I: - disconnected the AC power supply and substituted a battery. No joy. - disconnected the RS232 cable from the K2. No joy. - the KPA100 was off, but I took it out altogether. No joy. After checking the Elecraft archives, I came across a posting from Michael AB9GV: Make sure that the K2 is not close (within a foot?) to stray magnetic fields from battery chargers, power supplies, lamp ballasts, and so on. Turned out I have an older high intensity light within 6 inches from the side of the K2. Turning off the lamp cured the problem. 73 de K1ESE 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
Re: [Elecraft] OT: QSL cards
Wayne wrote: I'm in the market for new QSL cards. My first choice of vendor never returns e-mails, so I'm looking for another one. Anyone have a recommendation for a QSL printer that can handle custom artwork in Illustrator format? Perhaps too far away for you, but I get my QSLs from THE QSL SHOP in Germany. 73, Geoff GM4ESD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] KX1 SN 1151 a quadbander
You are most welcome Ralph! Enjoy it. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Thanks to Don Wilhelm, W3FPR, my KX1, SN 1151 is now a quad-bander. I've had it on its 'new' band this evening to work a few of my regular NTS nets, and it operated well. I'll have to give it a workout over the next few days, but so far it is living up to its reputation. I thought I'd give Don the pat on the back in this public forum, he does deserve the credit. Thanks Don!! 73, Ralph, VE7OM ___ 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] Static
Hi Jim, I work in an electronics industry and despite all the great reports from people who said I build mine on shag carpet and it works fine ESD damage is a real issue that causes real problems that don't always show up immediately. ESD protection falls under the category of an ounce of protection. I happen to have a mat which is where I built my K2. If I did not have a mat, I'd likely get some sheet aluminum and connect it to a grounded outlet through a 1 Meg resistor. Use that as your work surface but be careful not to scratch your rig. In either case, get and wear a wrist strap. It is cheap insurance. - Keith KD1E - - K2 5411 - -Original Message- Hello, Any suggestions for a good static free set up to work aside from buying a mat etc. would be appreciated. tnx, Jim/k2hn ___ 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] Black Widow paddle kit
They are real thick--about double the width of the 0.73mm picks I use for actually picking a guitar. They could be broken, but it would have to be intentional, or from dropping the paddle just right. 73 Eric N0HHS KX1 #670 From the looks of it, the paddles themselves are guitar picks - which are easy to get replacements for, and REALLY hard to break (essentially can't be), esp. the heavier thicknesses, which is what it looks like are on the paddle in the picture. ___ 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] K1 xmit issue - solved
It appears that the transmit mix oscillator was the issue. X6 needs a jumpstart by tapping it with a screwdriver. Pulled it and checked for a solder short, but perhaps I killed it during install. Thanks to John, kf7om, and Jerry, wa2dkg, for their off-reflector assistance. Proof again that one of the best parts of an Elecraft is the people that have 'em. 73s Pete Pete Axson WD4LST 17901 NE 18th Ave Citra, FL 32113 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT: QSL cards
Wayne, Maybe Elecraft needs to run a seminar on customer service and invite your QSL card guy...hi Tom WB2QDG K2 1103 -- Original message -- From: wayne burdick [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi All, I'm in the market for new QSL cards. My first choice of vendor never returns e-mails, so I'm looking for another one. Anyone have a recommendation for a QSL printer that can handle custom artwork in Illustrator format? I haven't had new cards printed since 1977, which was about the time I turned my attention to designing little radios. I think I owe a few of you cards, too :) Thanks, 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 ___ 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] 1st alignment steps fail. Was: KPA100 oscillation...
Hello again! Started to check KPA100 after weekends failure. Voltage tests on page 43 (Appendix G, KPA100 manual). D13 133 V U4 pin 8 -23.9 V TP1 0 V J3 + lead 1.35 V Last one failed, should be 0 volts. What to look for to rectify this? Or should I just go ahead with receiver tests? 73 Jukka, OH4MFA K2 #4293, KPA100 out-of-order ___ 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] Anti-Static
At www.mycableshop.com ... you can get a 2'x2' mat with grounding cable, wrist strap, and a 12oz bottle of spray anti static stuff. All this for $29.00. Paul, KD3JF Glen Burnie, MD FM19qd (Map Grid Square) ___ 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] Static - SAFETY WARNING
Hi Don; I wouldn't build without a Mat. See the Jameco site www.jameco.com part# 10575ck = 11.3x22 mat for $9.95. Get a wrist strap too; there were some for under $7. No connection to Jameco. pete, kn6bi -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Darwin, Keith Sent: Tuesday, June 06, 2006 7:04 AM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Static - SAFETY WARNING Don, Yes, you're absolutely right. My suggestion to use some conductive surface (alum.) assumes it is used only for construction (no power applied). During testing, you'd have to change the setup to prevent the rig from shorting! I'm glad you mentioned it! As I think about it, I can see that the metal top is a poor substitute for a real static mat and can do only 1/2 of what a true high-impedance / conductive mat can do. I honestly don't know the price of a static mat. I got mine free from work as it was soon to be tossed out. I've seen 'em in Mouser and I think they were $50 or so but I bet they can be had for less. 73! - Keith- -Original Message- From: Don Wilhelm [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] I agree with all your ESD comments, but I would hesitate to suggest that anyone do electronics work on a completely conductive surface such as a sheet of aluminum. The possibility of a short to the work surface while testing or working on powered equipment is high. Even with low voltages, the current can be high and therefore dangerous. The surface should be conductive, but not of a low resistance. ___ 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 __ NOD32 1.1581 (20060606) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.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] Static - SAFETY WARNING
Hi Paul; I called Jameco. They told me that the part number that I quoted will no longer be reordered, but they currently have 50 in stock. The larger sizes will be restocked and part of normal inventory. pete -Original Message- From: Paul Gates, KD3JF [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, June 06, 2006 8:32 AM To: peter gerba Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Static - SAFETY WARNING Mat no longer available with Jameco. Paul, KD3JF Glen Burnie, MD FM19qd (Map Grid Square) - Original Message From: peter gerba [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Darwin, Keith [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, June 6, 2006 11:26:10 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Static - SAFETY WARNING Hi Don; I wouldn't build without a Mat. See the Jameco site www.jameco.com part# 10575ck = 11.3x22 mat for $9.95. Get a wrist strap too; there were some for under $7. No connection to Jameco. pete, kn6bi -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Darwin, Keith Sent: Tuesday, June 06, 2006 7:04 AM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Static - SAFETY WARNING Don, Yes, you're absolutely right. My suggestion to use some conductive surface (alum.) assumes it is used only for construction (no power applied). During testing, you'd have to change the setup to prevent the rig from shorting! I'm glad you mentioned it! As I think about it, I can see that the metal top is a poor substitute for a real static mat and can do only 1/2 of what a true high-impedance / conductive mat can do. I honestly don't know the price of a static mat. I got mine free from work as it was soon to be tossed out. I've seen 'em in Mouser and I think they were $50 or so but I bet they can be had for less. 73! - Keith- -Original Message- From: Don Wilhelm [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] I agree with all your ESD comments, but I would hesitate to suggest that anyone do electronics work on a completely conductive surface such as a sheet of aluminum. The possibility of a short to the work surface while testing or working on powered equipment is high. Even with low voltages, the current can be high and therefore dangerous. The surface should be conductive, but not of a low resistance. ___ 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 __ NOD32 1.1581 (20060606) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.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 __ NOD32 1.1581 (20060606) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.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] Anti-Static
Thanks Paul. Just put an order in for the 2 x 2 set. Tnx agn Jim/k2hn ___ 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] Static - SAFETY WARNING
Pete, I checked the website and see that part number 10575 is not ROHS compatible, but they have a new one the same size with ROHS yes and that is likely their replacement - the part number is 10576, priced at $9.95 each. Again the website is www.jameco.com - since I have no connection with Jameco, this is only my best guess. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- Hi Paul; I called Jameco. They told me that the part number that I quoted will no longer be reordered, but they currently have 50 in stock. The larger sizes will be restocked and part of normal inventory. pete -Original Message- From: Paul Gates, KD3JF [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, June 06, 2006 8:32 AM To: peter gerba Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Static - SAFETY WARNING Mat no longer available with Jameco. Paul, KD3JF Glen Burnie, MD FM19qd (Map Grid Square) - Original Message From: peter gerba [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Darwin, Keith [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, June 6, 2006 11:26:10 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Static - SAFETY WARNING Hi Don; I wouldn't build without a Mat. See the Jameco site www.jameco.com part# 10575ck = 11.3x22 mat for $9.95. Get a wrist strap too; there were some for under $7. No connection to Jameco. pete, kn6bi ___ 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] Old SWL QSL cards
Folks, Thought I'd share some pix of some old SWL QSL cards: http://users.frii.com/rwc/swl_qsls/ All are from 1965 (Man I'm gettin' old! :-) I found them while packing up the house for my upcoming move. With the recent posts about BBC, SWL and QSL cards, on the Elecraft and QRP-L list, I thought some of you may be interested. -- 73, Rod N0RC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT: QSL cards
Another vote for cheapqsls.com - I had an image (TIFF, I think) that I wanted to use and Sue worked with me to turn it into a nice QSL card. I'll probably modify it a bit for the next batch, but I'm quite happy with this - and turnaround was very quick. I'm relatively new to HF (last December). I send paper QSLs. I'm collecting for WAS (mixed band QRP at this point) - I am split between sending the card as post card and sending in an envelope, and often (especially when I'm after a new state) will send in an envelope with a SASE. I've only had one DX contact so far :-) but I sent that card with an IRC. It's too soon to count the response as missing... 73 de chris K6DBG ___ 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] Old SWL QSL cards
Cool! I still have a bunch of SWL cards from the late 60s. I'll have to scan some of mine and post them. For a long time after getting my ham ticket, and cutting back on SWLing, I'd get New Year's cards from Radio Havana. They were very funny. The one I remember best had as the front of the card a caricature of Castro with a long beard that stretched to the ground. You lifted the beard to read the message, Happy New Year from Havana! 73! Dan KB6NU -- CW Geek and MI Affiliated Club Coordinator Read my ham radio blog at www.kb6nu.com LET'S GET MORE KIDS INTO HAM RADIO! On Jun 6, 2006, at 12:12 PM, Rod N0RC wrote: Folks, Thought I'd share some pix of some old SWL QSL cards: http://users.frii.com/rwc/swl_qsls/ All are from 1965 (Man I'm gettin' old! :-) I found them while packing up the house for my upcoming move. With the recent posts about BBC, SWL and QSL cards, on the Elecraft and QRP-L list, I thought some of you may be interested. -- 73, Rod N0RC ___ 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] KPA100/KAT100
I have just completed successfully installing the amplifier and tuner in an EC2 and interfacing it with the K2 and KIO2 data interface. No difficulties were encountered and the alignment went exactly as described in the assembly manuals and the information from KK7P. The one question I had regarding an interface voltage check turned out to be normal because the interface between the KAT100 and KIO2 has a 1/2 voltage divider created by the series resistor in the KIO2 and the base-emitter resistor in the KAT100. I completed all of the alignment steps for the KPA100 with the K2 and then installed it in the EC2. Great project, getting excellent keying reports and now I'm putting in the hours of operation needed to do the recommended retightening of the power transistor mounting hardware! 73 Elliott WA6TLA ___ 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] Building KX-2 SN 1482 Question
Definately keep the BNC connector on there, and just use an adaptor. Alligator clip pigtails will be much more of a headache than you realize at this time. 73 de Alex NS6Y On Jun 6, 2006, at 10:08 AM, Larry Wright wrote: The build is going well. My question is this: has anyone used alligator clip outputs in place of the BNC connector? What do you see as the pros and cons of using alligator clips? I have been using the SST and the L-tuner (which has alligator clip outputs) since last fall and so am accustomed to using alligator clips. I anticapate mostly using the KX-1 for camping, backpacking, and portable use with an endfed wire and counterpoise.. So instead of using the BNC and an adapter, I am considering contructing it with alligator clip outputs. It would appear to me to be easy to put the BNC connector in later if I decide the alligator clips are not a good choice. Removing the BNC looks like a difficult task if I later decide I don't like it. I welcome any comments. 73 Larry N4QY ___ 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] Curiosity
Hi, Folks. I had an interesting experience yesterday. I was practicing using a desoldering tool as I have never used one before and wanted to get my choreography figured out before I start desoldering components to install the 80m module, so picture this: The KX1 board is sitting in a plastic (yuch - I know...) PCB vise which is attached to a wooden bench. My weller soldering is not plugged in. My FT-51 is monitoring the local repeater. The cable between the soldering station and the soldering iron runs very close to the FT-51 rubber duck antenna. OK - so I touch the tip of the soldering iron to one of the solder pads on the PCB, and I get a humming from the FT-51. Remove the tip, the humming goes away. Touch the tip to the pad and the humming starts again... What on earth could be causing this? Neither the KX1 board or the soldering station are powered, and the hum is only present when the soldering iron tip touched the board. Now - in retrospect I suppose it was pretty dumb to touch the iron tip to the board when the board is floating in a plastic vice and the soldering station is floating as it is not plugged in... I am wearing a grounding strap but I'm only touching the vacuum pump and soldering iron... Hope I didn't fry anything :) But I am curious what the humm is. I'm assuming it's 60Hz being picked up by the soldering station perhaps through the cable, but I don't now why the hum is only present when I touch the soldering iron tip to the KX1 board. 73 for now, Martin. VA3SIE. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] OT: QSL cards
Hi Wayne - Just a thought There is a lot of talent on this list; not only electronic, but must include artistic as well (I'm not one of them). Why not have a contest for QSL designs with great pictures of the K1, KX1, and K2 on the pretty side with various backgrounds and necessary flexibility for the detailed info. You, Eric and the staff be the judges - submit them to some of the vendors mentioned for pricing and perhaps have them available through the Elecraft web site. I for one would be interested. 73 Terry KF4FD K2 # 2008 - Original Message - From: wayne burdick [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 4:10 PM Subject: [Elecraft] OT: QSL cards Hi All, I'm in the market for new QSL cards. My first choice of vendor never returns e-mails, so I'm looking for another one. Anyone have a recommendation for a QSL printer that can handle custom artwork in Illustrator format? I haven't had new cards printed since 1977, which was about the time I turned my attention to designing little radios. I think I owe a few of you cards, too :) Thanks, 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 -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.0.394 / Virus Database: 268.8.1/355 - Release Date: 6/2/2006 ___ 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] Re: OT: QSL cards
Hi Terry, This sounds like fun and is fine with me, but I'm totally swamped. Are you volunteering to run the contest? :) 73, Wayne N6KR There is a lot of talent on this list; not only electronic, but must include artistic as well (I'm not one of them). Why not have a contest for QSL designs with great pictures of the K1, KX1, and K2 on the pretty side with various backgrounds and necessary flexibility for the detailed info. You, Eric and the staff be the judges - submit them to some of the vendors mentioned for pricing and perhaps have them available through the Elecraft web site. I for one would be interested. --- http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] kx1 screensaver?
I've got the k2 screensaver on my computer in the hamshack. And the k1 screensaver on the wife's laptop. It would be nice is someone came out with a kx1 screensaver. Personally I also like shots of the rigs being used in the field. Just a wish list here. Roland n5vwn k2#3090 ___ 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] Rough CW Note - Problem/Solution
G'day John, | During last night's Spartan Sprint I got a report from a friend that my CW signal was 597 with poor tone. He said it had an AC | power sound. | Turned out I have an older high intensity light within 6 inches from the side of the K2. Turning off the lamp cured the problem. Did your K2 have the VCO shield mod? I might just be putting my K2 in the vicinity of a QRO linear with a big lump of a transformer in the near future. Regards, Mike VP8NO ___ 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] Curiosity
Martin, Quite simply, you were creating a 'ground loop' and the FT-51 was inside the electric field created by that ground loop. If you had a 'rubber ducky' on the FT-51 that should be explaination enough, but if you were using an outside antenna, then you may want to look at the field of the antenna carefully. This RF does 'funny stuff' at times. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- I had an interesting experience yesterday. I was practicing using a desoldering tool as I have never used one before and wanted to get my choreography figured out before I start desoldering components to install the 80m module, so picture this: The KX1 board is sitting in a plastic (yuch - I know...) PCB vise which is attached to a wooden bench. My weller soldering is not plugged in. My FT-51 is monitoring the local repeater. The cable between the soldering station and the soldering iron runs very close to the FT-51 rubber duck antenna. OK - so I touch the tip of the soldering iron to one of the solder pads on the PCB, and I get a humming from the FT-51. Remove the tip, the humming goes away. Touch the tip to the pad and the humming starts again... What on earth could be causing this? Neither the KX1 board or the soldering station are powered, and the hum is only present when the soldering iron tip touched the board. Now - in retrospect I suppose it was pretty dumb to touch the iron tip to the board when the board is floating in a plastic vice and the soldering station is floating as it is not plugged in... I am wearing a grounding strap but I'm only touching the vacuum pump and soldering iron... Hope I didn't fry anything :) But I am curious what the humm is. I'm assuming it's 60Hz being picked up by the soldering station perhaps through the cable, but I don't now why the hum is only present when I touch the soldering iron tip to the KX1 board. 73 for now, Martin. VA3SIE. ___ 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] Building KX-2 SN 1482 Question
Hi Larry, I use a bnc with about an inch and a half of coax (separated) to two aligator clips. I think this is a much better idea than an adapter. Gotta be easier on the circuit board. 72, Paul -ve1dy- -- QRP-L #2507, SKCC #91 www3.ns.sympatico.ca/ppike On 6/6/06, Larry Wright [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: The build is going well. My question is this: has anyone used alligator clip outputs in place of the BNC connector? What do you see as the pros and cons of using alligator clips? ___ 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] Update on Diana morse de KB3NNP
Hello, I guess it is time to give an update about Diana Morse, KB3NNP, progress. Two weeks ago the original four Polar Bear, went to Diana's QTH to present her with the radio gear and et her setup. The original four are Ron de WB3AAL, Ed de WA3WSJ, Ed de K3YTR and Mark de NK8Q. We did the presentation and took pictures. Then we proceeded to set up the station for her. Once we got everything setup we placed a wire out the window so she could do some on air coping. She did not want to get on the air because she never used a keyer and iambic paddles. She wanted to practice before she got on the air. Last Sunday Mark de NK8Q and I de WB3AAL went up to her place to make come connections on the power cords so Diana could disconnect the radio and take it with when they go to NH. We also placed a G5RV up as a temporary antenna until I get my spare Butternut HF9V in working shape. We told her that she was going to make her first 2 QSO's that day. We had everything up and running. I went out to my car and fired up my K2 on 7.115 MHz. I called for KB3NNP and low and behold the sounds of the Morse station was finally on the air. I exchanged the usual information and welcomed her to the hobby. Surprising her fist was very good. She just has to get the coping of the code up to speed of her sending. After I signed with her, Mark came out to my car and I ran into the house. Mark made a QSO with Diana and enjoyed contacting a relative of Samuel Morse. This seemed to work out very good since she did have questions on what to send and how to do this. Today she got on 40 meters and called out her first CQ. Bob KC8MFF from WV came back to her CQ and the Ham Radio bug has been implanted. Diana was very excited that someone heard her CQ and came back to her call. We told he that the more she gets on the air and make QSO's she will be up her confidence and CW skills. ===Diana Morse History=== I'm 5th cousin, 5 times (generations) removed from Samuel FB Morse--he is 7th I am 12th generation from Anthony Morse, who came to Mass. in 1635. Until I had all the links, I wasn't sure if I was comfortable talking about it, since it was one of my main reasons for learning code : ) (other than your wonderful support). Diana Morse de KB3NNP = So if you hear KB3NNP on 40 or 80 meter CW in the Novice section, please stop and say hello to her. She is going to start studying to take her General Class license. 72 and Thanks, Ron Polityka WB3AAL www.wb3aal.com www.n3epa.org ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Building KX-2 SN 1482 Question
Larry: You can also buy a BNC - banana plug adapter from Jameco (no affiliation) for a few bucks. Take it off when not using it and you have a stock K2. 73's, John AA0VE Larry Wright wrote: The build is going well. My question is this: has anyone used alligator clip outputs in place of the BNC connector? What do you see as the pros and cons of using alligator clips? I have been using the SST and the L-tuner (which has alligator clip outputs) since last fall and so am accustomed to using alligator clips. I anticapate mostly using the KX-1 for camping, backpacking, and portable use with an endfed wire and counterpoise.. So instead of using the BNC and an adapter, I am considering contructing it with alligator clip outputs. It would appear to me to be easy to put the BNC connector in later if I decide the alligator clips are not a good choice. Removing the BNC looks like a difficult task if I later decide I don't like it. ___ 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] Hammering the KPA100 (WAS: KPA100 oscillation during IARU Reg 1 Field Day)
I was one of the fellows who helped John test the PLL VCO temperature stability mod. To do that I wanted to heat up the K2 to in internal air temperature of my K2 up to about 120F or so for a period of time and then do drift measurements. I did that by loading a memory with CW, then putting the K2 into repeat mode at 100 watts into a dummy load, then going away for half an hour or so while it slammed out 100 watts of CW. I used no additional cooling - only what the little internal fan provides. Transmit times were at least 30 minutes, continuous CW, at 100 watts output. There were no issues with the heat produced. The CW speed doesn't matter, by the way. It's the duty cycle that determines how much heat is produced. The duty cycle is the ratio of key down to key up time. While higher speeds mean the key goes down more rapidly, the ratio of key down to key up remains unchanged no matter what speed a given text is sent. IMPORTANT; It is very important to remember to tighten the final amplifier mounting screws after an initial run-in period as described in the KPA100 manual. If your experience is like mine, you'll find them loose and in danger of not maintaining good thermal contact with the heat sink if you don't go back and tighten them. Once I did the initial re-tightening per the manual, I've not found them loose again. I've used my KPA100 for about three years now. 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] Battery power problems.
I ran my K2 last weekend on a battery (from my backyard â fully charged 52 Ah. Gel cell), and everyone on the net (40 meter SSB) complained that the signal was distorted and just plain sounded very bad. One person suggested that it was the 12 volts put out by the battery, rather than the typical 13.8 volts. I brought out my power supply and everything worked fine. I guess it was surprising that this radio, that I understood was for portable operation wouldnât work well on battery power. Has anyone else experienced this or is it unique to my radio? This is a 4000 serial number. I have on order the W4RRY battery booster. By comparison, my FT-857 seems unaffected by 12 volts. Tom W6EIJ Thomas E. Beltran, Esq. BELTRAN, BELTRAN, SMITH OPPEL MACKENZIE, L.L.P. 2501 West Burbank Blvd. Suite 200 Burbank, California 91505 Telephone: (818) 567-1776 Facsimile: (818) 955-9877 ___ 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 and HI current
The saga continues. I am in the middle of building my very first breadboard project: a 10 MHz oscillator to test the K2. Got about half of the parts from Radio Shack. Got the XTAL and a few other parts at Hosfelt Electronics. For the Don, I found two caps that were wrong in the bandpass area: C12 was labelled 560 and should be 561 and C4 was labelled 820 and should be 821 These appear to be order of magnitude differences so I HOPE their correction leads me on. I remember correcting myself during the build : 560 is 561 ... 820 is 821. Can Someone (I don't know who...could it be DON?!) confirm that the above is correct and makes sense? If so, I'll order more caps. Thanks again for all the help (and everyone's patience with what is becoming a record-breaking thread) John AB8WH ___ 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
