[Elecraft] SWR bridge diodes
Hi, The other night I left my K2/100 and KAT100 still attached to the antenna, and we must have had a thunderstorm or the like pass through. I had been using the rig before I hit the sack, and everything was fine, but in the morning I got the dreaded "Hi Cur" warning if I tried to transmit anything higher than 10w. Subsequent testing proved the SWR bridge diodes in both the KPA100 *and* the KAT100 had changed from being diodes to short-circuits. A trip to the local (dead loss) Electronics store to get some more 1N1755 diodes produced 1 diode ! ( typical) What's a bloke going to do with the Christmas postal rush in full swing and Elecraft thousands of miles away? In the end I replaced the 4 diodes with common old 1N4148's and everything appears to be working fine..which brings me to the question..why are the 1N5711's used anyway? does their being Shottky diodes make them any better in this application? I did wonder if the slightly larger forward resistance of the 1N4148 might cause a slightly lower VRFDET, but that doesn't seem to be the case. To add to this saga..after finding the diodes being faulty, I had the end of the antenna draped over a certificate on the wall to keep it out of the way. A sudden rain storm went through accompanied by strong winds, and there was a spark jumping across the ends of BNC fitting on the end of the antenna as if it had been connected to a cars spark coil. A grounding switch is now being installed I have lost the odd SWR bridge diode in my 40 or so years as an Amateur, but this is the first time I have actually seen why (the antenna is a 80/40/20m set of 1/2 waves arranged as inverted "V's" up 13m in the center,and single coax fed.) 73.Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/581 - Release Date: 9/12/2006 3:41 p.m. ___ 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] Elecraft CW Net Announcement < KD5PZO (SK) >
Good Evening Folks, Our sun has been quite active this week. Two X-class flares, a coronal mass ejection near miss, and a very strong solar wind from the coronal hole. There are times when the bands are quite attenuated and others when they are fantastic. I listened to 10 meters two nights ago and the band was packed with signals. If I had not so many other things to do I would have jumped in a made some DX contacts. As it is I have moved my computers, radios, and antennas. The new work area is not done by any means but it is functional. I will run ECN tomorrow night from a new location. This is fitting because I will commemorate one year without Pat. I've had a very tumultuous life since then but I think it has settled into a new rhythm. I'd like you all to join me on the air for this first anniversary. It has been helpful running the nets. They are something steady to hold on to; a responsibility which keeps me focussed. At first it was very hard to keep going but each Sunday I had something on my schedule. A bunch of great folks to chat with and then meet a few more fine operators. Working the nets got me outside of myself for a few hours each week. I had just started a new job the week before she passed away so my responsibilities had grown and then took a much larger jump after her passing. There was so much to do there was little time to think. In a way that was good. But many of you wrote me emails, sent me cards, and called me on the telephone. It was nice to know I had developed a support group of folks I have never seen (except for two of you :) Sam and I carry on and in some ways have grown. He used to ignore me because Pat spoiled him so; she spoiled me too! Now he and I have grown closer. He gets fed and I get to feed him. He is training me well ;) There are days when he eats better than I do! Another week and I will have my new work area producing new software, circuits, pc board designs, robots, and maybe even some prose. I still need to move the test equipment and set up another work bench. I also need to move the set of batteries I normally use for running my radios. Once those are in place I hope to run an inverter/charger system to keep them ready for when the power goes out. I have enough energy to power my home office equipment and my radios for a few days. Hopefully I will get some solar panels so I can make the time period indefinite. Please join me for a tribute to Pat Kusch, KD5PZO (SK): Monday z (Sunday 4 PM PST) 14050 kHz Monday 0300z (Sunday 7 PM PST) 7045 kHz Kevin. KD5ONS ___ 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] 30 meter S-meter reading
I recalibrated my S-meter and now the constant 2 bar reading on 30m is not present any longer. This is probably the 3rd or 4th time that I have had to recalibrate the S-meter in the 2 1/2 years since I built my K2. Has anyone else had to recalibrate their S-meter occasionally? Is something (AGC voltage) changing in the circuitry to cause this, and is it something I need to be concerned about? 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
[Elecraft] Noise source on 30 & 20 meters
Thanks to Leigh's (WA5ZNU) suggestions, I found the source of my noise right here in my own shack. It was a noisy (switching) wall wart power supply for my D-Link 7 port USB hub. Jeff (WB5GWB) said he was also having some major noise at his QTH, and he found that his DSL router was causing some serious EMI for him. He was also unable to operate because of the noise. Thanks for all the help from those who responded. I appreciate it greatly. Jeff and I discussed how we procrastinated getting around to actually searching for the problem because of how difficult we thought the task was going to be. The thought of walking around the neighborhood for hours on end with an EMI sniffer, and having to call the power company to come out and investigate, or maybe have to deal with a not so friendly neighbor...it just seemed like too much trouble. 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] [OT] LCD monitors Tracking Local QRN
My LCD monitor (now long out of production) was indeed a lot less noisy than the old CRT model. My LCD screen came with a small switching 12 volt power supply, though, and it generated a lot of hash by itself. I finally replaced the little switcher with a linear (non switching) power supply to cure that contribution to noise. The only noise now coming from the monitor is from the video signal coming from the video wiring and there is nothing to be done about that but it occurs only here and there in the spectrum and is rarely a problem. I would predict that most LCD monitors are far less noisy than the old CRTs but be prepared to deal with the broadband switcher noise from the cheap little power supplies that come with the new monitors. Don K7FJ Mark J. Schreiner wrote: The most noise I had and eliminated quite easily was my computer monitor which was replaced about 1 year ago with an LCD monitor, WOW, big difference! I have been considering a switch to an LCD monitor, but since finances will lead me to buying the cheapest thing I can find, I have hesitated. I would like to hear any 'specific' models/manufactures pros and cons for 19" LCD's other use. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] F.S. K1/4
Time to build something new so I offer for sale my K1 s/n 1902. It is in like-new condition...perfect.not a mark on it. This K1 covers 40m, 30m 20m 15m with full output on all bands, has the antenna tuner and LCD backlight installed along with a finger dimple on the main tuning knob and manuals. Will ship and insure to your QTH for $485. 73, Joe W2KJ I QRP, therefore I am ___ 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] LCD monitors Tracking Local QRN
My LCD is a ViewSonic VX924, Model VS10162. Purchased for less than $300. Mark, NK8Q Sam Morgan wrote: Mark J. Schreiner wrote: The most noise I had and eliminated quite easily was my computer monitor which was replaced about 1 year ago with an LCD monitor, WOW, big difference! I have been considering a switch to an LCD monitor, but since finances will lead me to buying the cheapest thing I can find, I have hesitated. I would like to hear any 'specific' models/manufactures pros and cons for 19" LCD's other use. TIA ___ 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 LCD assembly questions
Tom, Leave the backing on the diffuser where it is. The protective film is extremely thin. But it is mostly likely there. Good luck, Doug -- K0DXV Tom Zeltwanger wrote: Working on building my K2. So far the instructions have been great. I do have a couple concenrs about the LCD and diffuser installation. Instructions say not to remove the backing from either side of the difuser. Do they really want me to install the LCD over the diffuser glass with that backing paper in between? Instructions say all LCDs have a thin protective film on the front that will need to be removed. I sure can't see any thin film on mine. Is it possible that there is no protective film on the LCD display? Thanks, 73, Tom KG3V ___ 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] 10m constest
This morning there were a bunch of east coast stations (NJ, PA, VA, MD, NC, GA) booming in to the Seattle area, much to my suprise. I never heard anything on 10 during the CQWW a few weeks ago. I made 15 contacts on CW in as many minutes, but didn't have time to work the contest seriously. Bob, N7XY ___ 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: K1 no output on 20 - KFL1-4 problem?
I attached a cliplead to the antenna jack of my station receiver and dropped a loop of it inside of my K1. I could hear local oscillators at 40 meters15.003 30 meters17.997 20 metersnothing heard at 22 mhz 17 meters26.048 so I pulled out the 22 mhz xtal from the KFL1-4 board and put it in my test oscillator and heard nothing in my test oscillator. Im thinking part or all of the problem is that my 22mhz died for some reason. I saw that KL0WN on Kodiak Island had the same problem, Ill send him a note and order a new 22mhz xtal. KL7R Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited ___ 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 LCD assembly questions
Working on building my K2. So far the instructions have been great. I do have a couple concenrs about the LCD and diffuser installation. Instructions say not to remove the backing from either side of the difuser. Do they really want me to install the LCD over the diffuser glass with that backing paper in between? Instructions say all LCDs have a thin protective film on the front that will need to be removed. I sure can't see any thin film on mine. Is it possible that there is no protective film on the LCD display? Thanks, 73, Tom KG3V ___ 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: K1 no output on 20 - KFL1-4 problem?
Very interesting Greg, I can hear some signal on 20 but weak. Sounds like we have identical problems, I wonder what could have caused 20 to go out? The K1 was on the shelf for a couple of months and was working fine when I put it up. I dont think I did anything dumb to cause it to stop working. It is interesting that others have seen identical symptoms. I'm going to take a few DC voltage measurements and see what I see. Mike >I'd sure be curious if you find out what is causing the NO output on 20 meters. >I'm experiencing the same problem and have been doing so for some time. I've >done a lot of trouble shooting as well but to no avail. >Do you receive signals on 20 meters? I do. >If I plug in the two band (40 and 20 meter) board all is well on 20 meters so I >know the problem lies with the KFL1-4. >In signal tracing I have signals from both 1 and 2 of T1 (pin 1 and 2 >respectfully on P1) but when switch to the 20 meter band these readings are >considerably lower than the readings for the other bands. On pin 2 of T2 I have >no readings for 20 meters but good readings for the other three bands. Pin 4 of >P1 likewise shows no signal for 20 meters. >I've checked the board for shorts as well as maybe a bad solder joint but all >looks good. >Oh yes, my 4 band board worked good for quite a spell before loosing 20 meters. >This looks to be a problem experienced >by several of us that have purchased the KFL1-4 board. >I'm looking for a solutions as well and would appreciate input from anyone with >an idea. Or, help please. >72, >Greg >KI8AF Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.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] Interface problem...
Hello everyone, A few days ago I bought a new Rigblaster (the small model with a single serial port) interface to do a bit of PSK work with my K2. The new interface was a replacement for an identical one which apparently died and which I'd used for several years with my K2 with no problems whatsoever for occasional scrolling QSOs. The new interface has been a total failure, however, and refuses to operate correctly. If any of you care to work "offline" with me, I'd be extremely grateful for your help, as this has been a very difficult issue to resolve. Just FYI I'm running Win XP, Ham Radio Deluxe PSK software and a simple 9-pin serial port connection between my K2 and my desktop PC plus the usual audio cables. 73 and thanks for your time. K0PQ Steve Banks ___ 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] K1 no output on 20 - KFL1-4 problem?
Mike, I'd sure be curious if you find out what is causing the NO output on 20 meters. I'm experiencing the same problem and have been doing so for some time. I've done a lot of trouble shooting as well but to no avail. Do you receive signals on 20 meters? I do. If I plug in the two band (40 and 20 meter) board all is well on 20 meters so I know the problem lies with the KFL1-4. In signal tracing I have signals from both 1 and 2 of T1 (pin 1 and 2 respectfully on P1) but when switch to the 20 meter band these readings are considerably lower than the readings for the other bands. On pin 2 of T2 I have no readings for 20 meters but good readings for the other three bands. Pin 4 of P1 likewise shows no signal for 20 meters. I've checked the board for shorts as well as maybe a bad solder joint but all looks good. Oh yes, my 4 band board worked good for quite a spell before loosing 20 meters. This looks to be a problem experienced by several of us that have purchased the KFL1-4 board. I'm looking for a solutions as well and would appreciate input from anyone with an idea. Or, help please. 72, Greg KI8AF At 19:12 09/12/2006, you wrote: K1 Serial 02129 KFL1-4 No output on 20 meters Works fine on other bands. It used to work. I did some signal tracing. I see signal on pin 1 and 2 of P1 of the filter board for all bands I signal on pin 2 of T1 on all bands I see no signal on pin 4 of T1 on 20 meters - good signal on all other bands. What could cause this behavior? Signal is going through T1 on other bands. Could there be something drawing down the signal on 20 meters? I looked for shorts and didnt see any on the filter board. Mike KL7R Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.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 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] [OT] LCD monitors Tracking Local QRN
Mark J. Schreiner wrote: The most noise I had and eliminated quite easily was my computer monitor which was replaced about 1 year ago with an LCD monitor, WOW, big difference! I have been considering a switch to an LCD monitor, but since finances will lead me to buying the cheapest thing I can find, I have hesitated. I would like to hear any 'specific' models/manufactures pros and cons for 19" LCD's other use. TIA -- GB & 73's KA5OAI Sam Morgan ___ 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] Bottom Fan
"Well, you could still use the bottom cover if you put a whizzer fan there. And if you did it right, you could have the fan blow down to draw heat away from the rig and to lift it up to eye position for better viewing. :-) - Keith N1AS - " Oh, no, Keith! Now you've done it. The lengthy threads dreaming about a K3 were bad enough, but you just started visions of an Elecraft Hovercraft! -Dale K6PJV- ___ 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] HI CUR on 15 meters
Cathy, There could be a variety of reasons for a Hi Cur - one is simply that your threshold is too low, or it could be associated with the particular load that the antenna presents to the K2 or it could be a problem with the low pass filter in the K2, or it could be your power supply voltage. I suggest that you check with a dummy load first to eliminate the antenna consideration - compare the current drawn at 10 watts on 15 meters with the current drawn on 20 and 17 as well as the current on 12 and 10 meters. If your CAL CUR threshold is set less than 2.5 amps then that alone can be adequate explaination - you can safely increase the CAL CUR level up to 3.5 or even a bit more if need be. If your power supply voltage is low, you will need to set the CAL CUR a bit higher than normal - 13.8 volts is considered normal. Check during a full power transmit to be sure you do not have excessive voltage drop in the cable to the K2. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > While experimenting with 15 meters today, I noticed that when > transmitting a CQ at 10 watts, HI CUR would appear intermittently on the > display. I have never seen this on the lower bands (20 meters and down) > where I do 99% of my operating. Turning the power down to 8 watts on 15 > meters makes the problem go away. > > Any ideas? Do I just have the threshold set too low? > > BTW, thanks to those who pointed out, in response to my earlier question > about silence on 20 meters, that the problem was likely just propagation > rather than the unit. They were definitely correct, and I've worked a > lot of 20 meter contacts since then. > > Cathy > N5WVR > -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/580 - Release Date: 12/8/2006 12:53 PM ___ 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 no output on 20 - KFL1-4 problem?
K1 Serial 02129 KFL1-4 No output on 20 meters Works fine on other bands. It used to work. I did some signal tracing. I see signal on pin 1 and 2 of P1 of the filter board for all bands I signal on pin 2 of T1 on all bands I see no signal on pin 4 of T1 on 20 meters - good signal on all other bands. What could cause this behavior? Signal is going through T1 on other bands. Could there be something drawing down the signal on 20 meters? I looked for shorts and didnt see any on the filter board. Mike KL7R Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.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
Hovercraft (RE: [Elecraft] More K2 power?)
Well, you could still use the bottom cover if you put a whizzer fan there. And if you did it right, you could have the fan blow down to draw heat away from the rig and to lift it up to eye position for better viewing. :-) - Keith N1AS - plus perhaps a better heat sink than just the bottom cover. 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] K1 -- orientation of C13 and C20?
I am unclear on the correct orientation of C13 and C20. The directions state "this [flattened] side must be oriented towards the flattened side of the component outline." Unfortunately, the component outlines on my RF board are symmetrical as far as I can see, with no sign of flattening. Perhaps the through-hole is completely covering up the flat part of the outline. Could someone post the correct orientation without reference to the outline, e.g. "the flat side of C13 should point toward component XYZ"? If you go to appendix F, Parts Placement Drawing you can see that both caps have the flat side facing to the rear of the board. I downloaded the manual as a PDF and this allows me to zoom in on these pages if the illustrations are a little small. You can also use the search function to locate parts on both the schematics and parts placement drawings.. 73 Larry kb5dxy ___ 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] K1 -- orientation of C13 and C20?
Kathy, I am building a K1 here too and just stumbled across this same problem. It seems like the silk-screen does not stick on the new ROHS compliant boards (or something like that - the flats used to be in the silkscreen). Put the flat side toward the back of the K1 board - if you have any doubts obaut orientation and need a 'picture' there is the component placement drawing in the back of the manual. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > I am unclear on the correct orientation of C13 and C20. The directions > state "this [flattened] side must be oriented towards the flattened side > of the component outline." Unfortunately, the component outlines on my > RF board are symmetrical as far as I can see, with no sign of > flattening. Perhaps the through-hole is completely covering up the flat > part of the outline. > > Could someone post the correct orientation without reference to the > outline, e.g. "the flat side of C13 should point toward component XYZ"? > > Thanks, > > Cathy > N5WVR > -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/580 - Release Date: 12/8/2006 12:53 PM ___ 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] sideways V antenna?
I've used a center fed antenna like that with good results. The same rule apples as applies to an Inverted V: keep the angle >90 degrees to avoid excessive signal cancellation. Feeding it off center means your "feed line" is not just a transmission line: it's another radiating element in the antenna. Since the load is unbalanced, the currents will be unbalanced, no matter what you do at the rig end with baluns, etc. So be sure your feedline runs as short a distance as practical near the house, through walls, etc. You didn't say how long it'll be, but at frequencies where the legs get to be a couple of wavelengths long or more it'll start to show directivity in the direction of the open angle of the V. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Fellow Elecrafters, There's lots of stuff in the antenna literature about inverted V antennas, i.e., where the feedpoint is higher than the ends. But I can't find anything on dipoles and such in which the ends are not in the same vertical plane as the center. I'm thinking of putting up a stealth antenna that would be an OCF dipole with the feedpoint at the peak of my roof, and the ends extending toward two trees alongside the house. I've taken some measurements and calculated the angle between the legs as being about 97 degrees - but of course in the horizontal plane, not the vertical plane like an inverted V. I'd feed it with ladder line and my good ole Johnson Viking Matchbox, so I'm not worried about effects on feedpoint impedance. I imagine it would exhibit some directionality, probably toward the open side of the V ? Anyone see any major pitfalls with this approach?? 73 Ray K2HYD KX-1 # 608 ___ 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 drop test
Mine fell off a table from about 3 feet. It worked fine, and in fact identified a problem I had been having with Audio. Guess I had a bad solder joint. I consider my self lucky. It landed on its rear panel. Had it landed front first, the results would have been very different. Mike AI4NS -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, December 09, 2006 4:36 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K2 drop test Hello all This may not sound palatable or down right offensive to some in the group. How many of you have dropped the K2? What height and the survival?? Regards moe MM0MRM K2 # 5158 PS. I have dropped several times accidentally ---not great heights though. Still working OK. Although i get a little worried at times. ___ 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] how I operate the contest using the K2
Hi Doug, I'm not a super contester, and I'm just starting to hone my abilities as such, but I've found that by clicking on the bandmap to either a specific frequency (such as the bottom of the band) or a callsign of a station that I hadn't logged on my previous run through the bands (and maybe a new multiplier) is a pretty quick and efficient way to change frequencies without using rig memories or changing VFO or anything like that. I use N1MM Logger but I'm sure other programs likely have similar functionality. Mark, NK8Q DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL wrote: This works really well for me and is probably "as fast" as any other method on any other rig. Certainly, it is much faster than the other methods I've tried on the K2. Give it a try! Of course, I only do this during a contest. Otherwise VFO B is kept functioning as a 2nd vfo. ___ 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 -- orientation of C13 and C20?
I am unclear on the correct orientation of C13 and C20. The directions state "this [flattened] side must be oriented towards the flattened side of the component outline." Unfortunately, the component outlines on my RF board are symmetrical as far as I can see, with no sign of flattening. Perhaps the through-hole is completely covering up the flat part of the outline. Could someone post the correct orientation without reference to the outline, e.g. "the flat side of C13 should point toward component XYZ"? Thanks, Cathy N5WVR ___ 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] HI CUR on 15 meters
While experimenting with 15 meters today, I noticed that when transmitting a CQ at 10 watts, HI CUR would appear intermittently on the display. I have never seen this on the lower bands (20 meters and down) where I do 99% of my operating. Turning the power down to 8 watts on 15 meters makes the problem go away. Any ideas? Do I just have the threshold set too low? BTW, thanks to those who pointed out, in response to my earlier question about silence on 20 meters, that the problem was likely just propagation rather than the unit. They were definitely correct, and I've worked a lot of 20 meter contacts since then. Cathy N5WVR ___ 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] Tracking Local QRN
When nobody else is home and I want to find noise in the house (or eliminate that the noise is coming from my house) I have my K2 connected to a battery and I go over to the circuit breaker panel and start flipping breakers off. I can start with everything off if I want to be thorough and then gradually add one at a time back on, or I can flip one at a time off and back on. My hamshack, luckily, is near the breaker panel so I can instantly hear if the noise is switched on/off with the breakers. If I do find that a particular breaker quiets down the noise at least I can figure out what is all on that circuit (not so easily done in a house that was built in the '20s with various "generations" of wire from knob-n-tube to much nicer modern wiring that was put in by myself or the previous home owner about 8 years ago. Oh, of course there are various things that have battery backups such as security systems, smoke alarms, UPS for computer (many computers aren't 100% off unless completely disconnected from a power source), etc. If your hamshack isn't so close to the breaker panel you could get more resourceful and use another battery operated transmitter (hmm, maybe that would be a good use for a baby monitor once your baby is all grown up, assuming those things are battery operated, I think the Rx is usually, at least) or if you have somebody else that can work the breakers while you listen to the radio. I have 3 different dimmer switches and haven't noticed a problem with them (yet). I have some flourescent lighting in the basement, which I always considered to be a no-no, but it doesn't seem to raise my noise floor more than other neighborhood noises. I was a bit worried about some of those new efficient outdoor security floodlights but I've got several installed around the house and up at the garage and all seems okay with them as well. The most noise I had and eliminated quite easily was my computer monitor which was replaced about 1 year ago with an LCD monitor, WOW, big difference! Using a portable radio like a KX1, K1, K2, mobile rig, SW broadcast radio, etc. to go walking around the neighborhood might get you noticed, unless you do it at night (especially if it is near new moon, oh, unless your neighborhood is well lit like most modern neighborhoods tend to be). You may be able to identify noise that is coming from particular utility poles and then be able to attempt to contact the utility company to have them check it out (keep a log of when you hear the noise, what frequency, weather conditions when you hear it and don't hear it, etc) if you are nice enough to give them the pole number or some other identification of location of the pole to help make their job easier. Our local power company just sent out with the monthly bill a notice of an IR camera that they have to help find problem areas, a great tool to really zero in on the cause and location of the noise after you get them into the general vicinity. 73, Mark, NK8Q ___ 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] sideways V antenna?
If I recall correctly, John Heys' (G3BDR) Practical Wire Antennas published by RSGB has a discussion on the Vee Beam (horizontal Vee, twin fed vertical element) antenna. As I recall it was a practical wire antenna with directivity in some bands. ;) I think if you find Jimmy Hoffa, you will find my copy of the book, as I can never find it when I need it. 73, Gil NN4CW ___ 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 drop test
Hello all This may not sound palatable or down right offensive to some in the group. How many of you have dropped the K2? What height and the survival?? Regards moe MM0MRM K2 # 5158 PS. I have dropped several times accidentally ---not great heights though. Still working OK. Although i get a little worried at times. ___ 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] 10m constest
<> So if I make one Q on 10m this weekend do I win? I seem to be the only one <> on the band from where I'm sitting. Its pretty bleak right now, and for most of the day. Yesterday evening there was a nice opening from here in Colorado to Texas, Calif and the Northwest states around 0200 UTC. I worked 50 stations in a little over an hour, which is a very good rate for me. I expected more of the same today, but boy was I wrong! Spotty and weak openings this morning to Carribean and South America, but only worked 4 DX stations and maybe 4 or 5 more stateside ones. Maybe this evening or tomorrow will be better, but overall this one has been quite disappointing so far. 73 ... 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
[Elecraft] 10m constest
So if I make one Q on 10m this weekend do I win? I seem to be the only one on the band from where I'm sitting. Oh shoot. That means if I make one Q it will be a tie for first. :-) Craig NZ0R ___ 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] sideways V antenna?
Albers wrote: Anyone see any major pitfalls with this approach?? Tom, N6BT (founder of Force 12) has been known to say, "Everything will radiate." He often shows pictures of his "Illuminator" antennas to prove it. One is a light bulb on a post fed with coax and a current balun at the socket. He's actually worked a surprising amount of DX on it. He also has the "Phased Illuminator," three bulbs in a Vee arrangement with the power divided between them. My main antenna for the low bands is a non-resonant inverted vee about 70' at the apex, about 155ft on each leg, with the legs ending just a bit over head height, and a central angle of about 120 deg. It opens to the east. I adjusted the leg lengths to give tractable impedances at the feed point on 30 - 160, and a section of 450 ohm ladder line (length calculated using N6BV's TLW that comes with the ARRL Antenna Book 20th ed) feeding a 4:1 DX Engineering balun near the bottom of the tower w/ coax to the house. It is pretty much omnidirectional on 40 and below, and a cloud warmer on 80 and 160. The pattern gets pretty goofy above 30m. My guess is that your arrangement may exhibit similar characteristics, but then, antennas can be magic. Stick it into EZNEC and see? Fred K6DGW Auburn CA CM98lw Fred K6DGW Auburn CA CM98lw ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Firmware request
On Saturday 09 December 2006 13:59, Vic wrote: > The main problem is this: How would Elecraft support the K2 if the > firmware could be changed? Could anyone guarantee that his change to, > for example, the frequency control, didn't impact the t/r switching? > Note that slowing down the code in one place might make it impossible to > perform another function in time. It's not a problem. Elecraft could refuse to give support except for K2s with original firmware. Experimenting is a big part of Amateur Radio. I wouldn't be afraid to change the firmware and programme a new chip, keeping the original in case of problems. A condition of using the source could be that derivations, binary and source can't be published but may be submitted to Elecraft to see if they're worthy to be included in the next offical issue. Lots of people working on software can improve it beyond the ability of the original author, or any one of the contributors - Linus Torvalds keeps control over the gnu/linux kernel but he encourages others to contribute. 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] how I operate the contest using the K2
Next time you're at the low end of the band, press and hold Band-/Store, then press one of the 0-9 buttons. When you want to get to the bottom of the band, press and hold Band+/Rcl then press the digit you pressed above. Or you can do it the way I do: Press Band+ and Band- at the same time, then enter the frequency directly. You must scan the band pretty fast if this is the thing that's really slowing you down. On a busy contest day it takes me an hour or more to work my way up the band. Manually retuning by spinning the knob is a welcome break. :-) Craig NZ0R K2/100 #4941 K1 #1966 KX1 #1499 -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL Sent: Saturday, December 09, 2006 3:06 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] how I operate the contest using the K2 For those of you with no interest in QRP contesting, delete now. When I'm qrp, I frequently (almost incessantly) sweep the band over and over and over looking for new contacts. My method is to start at the bottom (say, 14000) and tune up towards the top. At some point, I decide it's time to go back to the bottom. With other rigs, this is pretty easy (memory recall with the push of one button). Not so easy with the K2. I've tried pushing the RATE button and tuning back down at the 1kc rate; fast, but not precise (I often overshoot). I've tried direct data entry; too many pushes. So the method that I've settled on (which I bring up now since "vfo b" has been in the news here) is to set VFO B to the bottom on every band (28000, 21000, 14000 etc). I use VFO A to tune the band. When I get "to the top" or otherwise decide to get back to the bottom, I push A/B (to get to VFO B), then A=B, then A/B (to get back to VFO A). I can do this really quickly (I don't wait for the display...I just push three times as fast as I can); certainly less than one second total duration. This works really well for me and is probably "as fast" as any other method on any other rig. Certainly, it is much faster than the other methods I've tried on the K2. Give it a try! Of course, I only do this during a contest. Otherwise VFO B is kept functioning as a 2nd vfo. de Doug KR2Q back to the 10m contest (at least they say it's a contest this weekend) ___ 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] sideways V antenna?
Real world implementations of antennas are constrained by the type and location of support structures that are on site. That said, put it up and see how it works. Any antenna is better than none. Bob K3YT ___ 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] Tracking Local QRN
Dale Kretzer wrote: I'd never thought of the KX1, or any of the little Elecraft > rigs, as an rf interference "sniffer," but they work ideally > for that purpose. A properly designed, handheld loop antenna > might be required in tougher cases, but give anything handy > a try and see what surprises you uncover. I've often used my KX1 to locate noisy electric fences in the area. I've never bothered with a loop ... just a piece of wire in the antenna jack. When I get close, I use a part of a paper clip in the connector, and if I'm within about 50-60m of the arc, it almost doesn't even take that. So far, it's worked every time. I also inadvertently found some gizmo on a power pole that was radiating narrow band noise at about 7055 while I was looking for a fence problem. I just happened to be listening to the fence on that freq. I don't know what it is, but I called the power company, and they must have replaced the box because it is still there but the noise disappeared a couple of days later. KX1's have many uses :-) Fred K6DGW Auburn CA CM98lw PS: The ARRL 10m contest is on. SFI=96, Kp=2, and X-ray flux is fairly low and declining. Lots of LU's, PY's, HP's, a couple of YV's, PJ2T, and at least one HC on CW. Sigs are pretty strong into N. Cal. Also worked a ZL on CW. Not too shabby for the bottom of the cycle. ___ 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: Barebones K2 Amplifier
Many of us place a small muffin fan on top of the K2 heatsink. I have my muffin fan housed in a small plywood box (blowing down at the fins) with a resistor in series with the fan so that it turns fairly slowly and makes no noise at all. With this auxillary cooling the noisy little fan in the 100W amp almost never comes on. I often run CW at 100 watts output and the internal fan only comes on after an especially long transmission. Don K7FJ Could the fan in the KPA100 be eliminated with a different heat sink? -- Darrell Bellerive Amateur Radio Stations VA7TO and VE7CLA Grand Forks, British Columbia, Canada ___ 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] sideways V antenna?
Fellow Elecrafters, There's lots of stuff in the antenna literature about inverted V antennas, i.e., where the feedpoint is higher than the ends. But I can't find anything on dipoles and such in which the ends are not in the same vertical plane as the center. I'm thinking of putting up a stealth antenna that would be an OCF dipole with the feedpoint at the peak of my roof, and the ends extending toward two trees alongside the house. I've taken some measurements and calculated the angle between the legs as being about 97 degrees - but of course in the horizontal plane, not the vertical plane like an inverted V. I'd feed it with ladder line and my good ole Johnson Viking Matchbox, so I'm not worried about effects on feedpoint impedance. I imagine it would exhibit some directionality, probably toward the open side of the V ? Anyone see any major pitfalls with this approach?? 73 Ray K2HYD KX-1 # 608 ___ 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] how I operate the contest using the K2
For those of you with no interest in QRP contesting, delete now. When I'm qrp, I frequently (almost incessantly) sweep the band over and over and over looking for new contacts. My method is to start at the bottom (say, 14000) and tune up towards the top. At some point, I decide it's time to go back to the bottom. With other rigs, this is pretty easy (memory recall with the push of one button). Not so easy with the K2. I've tried pushing the RATE button and tuning back down at the 1kc rate; fast, but not precise (I often overshoot). I've tried direct data entry; too many pushes. So the method that I've settled on (which I bring up now since "vfo b" has been in the news here) is to set VFO B to the bottom on every band (28000, 21000, 14000 etc). I use VFO A to tune the band. When I get "to the top" or otherwise decide to get back to the bottom, I push A/B (to get to VFO B), then A=B, then A/B (to get back to VFO A). I can do this really quickly (I don't wait for the display...I just push three times as fast as I can); certainly less than one second total duration. This works really well for me and is probably "as fast" as any other method on any other rig. Certainly, it is much faster than the other methods I've tried on the K2. Give it a try! Of course, I only do this during a contest. Otherwise VFO B is kept functioning as a 2nd vfo. de Doug KR2Q back to the 10m contest (at least they say it's a contest this weekend) ___ 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: Barebones K2 Amplifier
I have been following this thread with great interest. I have a QRP K2 and would like to add an amplifier. I love the integration of the KPA100 and KAT100 but would like more power and no fan. I would like 400 watts output, QSK without relays and no fan. The KPA800 seems interesting, but has features I don't need like SO2R and a price tag that is too high for me. I hope that Elecraft is considering a basic KPA400/KAT400 combination. Could the fan in the KPA100 be eliminated with a different heat sink? -- Darrell Bellerive Amateur Radio Stations VA7TO and VE7CLA Grand Forks, British Columbia, Canada -- Darrell Bellerive Amateur Radio Stations VA7TO and VE7CLA Grand Forks, British Columbia, Canada ___ 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 Firmware request
I can only agree 100% with Vic! As one who spent most of his professional career trying to force the most code into the least amount of memory and make every nano-second count (I became king of the self-modifying instruction) I can say without hesitation that you DO NOT want the source code. And, if God forbid you get it, and modify it, please don't release it to the world. Good grief, mutant K2s! 73, Doug W6JD -- Original message -- From: Vic K2VCO <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Ian Stirling wrote: > > > This is the problem with proprietary firmware. > > Does Elecraft think that someone could make a rival > > product if the source code were released? > > Any determined capable person could write the firmware > > for the K2, or a rival product. > > You would have to be *very* determined and *very* capable. The firmware > for the K2 is complicated, and lots of things are highly interdependent > in any real-time application. > > No I haven't seen the source code, but I'm a programmer and do know what > functions it performs. I think I can safely make the above statement. > > The main problem is this: How would Elecraft support the K2 if the > firmware could be changed? Could anyone guarantee that his change to, > for example, the frequency control, didn't impact the t/r switching? > Note that slowing down the code in one place might make it impossible to > perform another function in time. > -- > 73, > Vic, K2VCO > Fresno CA > http://www.qsl.net/k2vco > ___ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > You must be a subscriber to post to the list. > Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm > Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Firmware request
I keep trying to think of a reason I need to know the auxbus protocol but I haven't yet. Most of the things I would want would require K2 firmware changes as well, and I agree that is not going to happen. My closest call has been wanting to make the power knob work with a non-Elecraft external amplifier. But after discussions with a number of Elecrafters, I came to the conclusion that the KPA100 integration is greater than it appears, mostly because of the ALC loop and its apparent knowledge of the KPA100 gain and response characteristics. Leigh/WA5ZNU On Sat, 9 Dec 2006 10:59 am, Vic K2VCO wrote: Ian Stirling wrote: This is the problem with proprietary firmware. Does Elecraft think that someone could make a rival product if the source code were released? Any determined capable person could write the firmware for the K2, or a rival product. You would have to be *very* determined and *very* capable. The firmware for the K2 is complicated, and lots of things are highly interdependent in any real-time application. No I haven't seen the source code, but I'm a programmer and do know what functions it performs. I think I can safely make the above statement. The main problem is this: How would Elecraft support the K2 if the firmware could be changed? Could anyone guarantee that his change to, for example, the frequency control, didn't impact the t/r switching? Note that slowing down the code in one place might make it impossible to perform another function in time. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraftHelp: 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] Amplifier to build
Do you think this kit can be made to to full QSK? On Fri, Dec 08, 2006 at 11:49:11PM -0600, Mike Short wrote: > I just assembled the AN762. It is an easy build, although the directions > are nowhere > Near Elecraft quality. I had to go between the drawings and the schematics > some to figure out what went > Where. The amplifier modules are pretty robust, and well designed. Very good > quality stuff. > > I recommend them. > > Mike > AI4NS > > -Original Message- > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of J F > Sent: Friday, December 08, 2006 6:57 AM > To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Elecraft Discussion List > Subject: [Elecraft] Amplifier to build > > This is another source of more involved amplifier kits > for those who like a challenge. They have been > recommended to me any number of times, although I've > never used them (nor have an interest in the company) > > http://www.communication-concepts.com/hf_amplifiers.htm > > 73, > Julius > n2wn > > > > > > Do you Yahoo!? > Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. > http://new.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 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 -- David Dawson The greatest dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well-meaning but without understanding. -- Justice Louis D. Brandeis ___ 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 Firmware request
Ian Stirling wrote: This is the problem with proprietary firmware. Does Elecraft think that someone could make a rival product if the source code were released? Any determined capable person could write the firmware for the K2, or a rival product. You would have to be *very* determined and *very* capable. The firmware for the K2 is complicated, and lots of things are highly interdependent in any real-time application. No I haven't seen the source code, but I'm a programmer and do know what functions it performs. I think I can safely make the above statement. The main problem is this: How would Elecraft support the K2 if the firmware could be changed? Could anyone guarantee that his change to, for example, the frequency control, didn't impact the t/r switching? Note that slowing down the code in one place might make it impossible to perform another function in time. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Firmware request
On Saturday 09 December 2006 09:55, Mike Harris wrote: > This has been asked for for years. Sadly it will fall on totally deaf > ears at Elecraft. Not even a hint if it's possible or not. This is the problem with proprietary firmware. Does Elecraft think that someone could make a rival product if the source code were released? Any determined capable person could write the firmware for the K2, or a rival product. The original Lego Mindstorms programmable brick was proprietary closed source firmware. At first, their lawyers descended on the hackers who were writing a more capable operating system for it with cease and desist orders. But Lego came to realise that they would sell more hardware if they encouraged independent development. Lego have firmly embraced this concept with the new Mindstorms brick (NXT) - they have released the firmware source code. According to their technical FAQ, hackers have already implemented Lua, Java and C for the NXT. I would like the tuning knob to behave like my IC-735, a variable rate depending on the knob rotation rate. I don't like the three tuning rates that require one or two button presses. So, how about it Elecraft? Release the source code - show us the complete design without the proprietary black box in the middle. You might increase your sales of the K2. 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] Tracking Local QRN
Door bell transformers can also be a problem we've found also. Paul K7PM ___ 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] More K2 power?
It's been my experience that adding anything less than 6 dB additional power, quadrupling the output, isn't worth the effort. Doubling the power - a 3 dB increase - is, under most conditions, a change that is just barely detectable at the receiving end. Often, when QSB is swinging the signal up and down, even 6 dB is hard to notice. It might be possible, but would require more driving power to the finals, at least on some bands where the K2 just meets the 10 watt specifications now, plus new output filters to match the 50 ohm output to the finals, plus perhaps a better heat sink than just the bottom cover. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Wonder how much trouble it would be for Elecraft designer(s), to beef up the K2's final amp pair - like 50%? It would seem to be fairly straight forward to swap out the matched amplifer FETs - with a pair and associated changed circuitry to beef K2's output potential to like 30watts? Or double what it is now? Possible? Sort of like a new pair of shoes. Fred N3CSY ___ 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] Amplifier to build
FWIW on the AN762. I built one about 4-5 year ago and had nothing but trouble with it. Got almost no support from the supplier. Finally gave up on it. A couple of months ago I finally built up the courage to dump it in the trash. Sometimes you get the bear sometimes the bear gets you. GL & 73, Lenny W2BVH -- Original message -- From: Larry Phipps <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > FWIW. I built one of the CCI amps (don't recall which one at the > moment), and I was not very impressed with the input or output return > loss. I have a plot from my VNA if interested. Distortion was fine, but > the match was terrible. > > Larry N8LP > > > > Paul - VE1DY wrote: > > Hi Mike, > > > > The AN762 has sparked my interest too. I have several low power rigs > > besides my K2. > > > > Can the power output be easily adjusted to say 25w, and if condx > > warrant, crank it up or down on the fly? Also, I take it you need to > > build a set of low pass filters for every band you plan to operate. > > > > I love to see a picture of yours of it's not too much trouble. It > > looks llike a great project for the Christmas holidays. > > > > 73, Paul -ve1dy- > > > > > > On 12/9/06, Mike Short <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > >> I just assembled the AN762. It is an easy build, although the > >> directions > >> are nowhere > >> Near Elecraft quality. I had to go between the drawings and the > >> schematics > >> some to figure out what went > >> Where. The amplifier modules are pretty robust, and well designed. > >> Very good > >> quality stuff. > >> > >> I recommend them. > >> > > ___ > > 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] SWR Increases
Pat, Exactly where does the SWR increase? If it is on the tuner indication, it cannot be the KPA100 causing the increase, that would have to be in the tuner. Does the SWR indication increase on the K2 display? If so, then remove the tuner and operate the KPA100 into a dummy load to see if there is still an increase. There are too many variables at the moment for us to venture anything more than wild guesses. In any case, it is quite doubtful that the temperature of the PA transistors is the root cause - a temperature rise in the enclosure may be causing a morginal solder connection elsewhere to create changes in the SWR reading reported. You could check the soldering on the components associated with the wattmeter and the reporting of SWR - most are located in the KPA100 corner near the antenna jack (T4 and its associated components) and the R26 and R27 trimmers, but the signal flows through U5 and U6 as well with Q10 and Q11 providing scaling when on high power - see the schematic for the resistors and capacitors associated with these devices. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > I have a K2/KPA-100 and the tuner also. I have recently tried > 160 M. and noticed that as I operate and the rig heats up from > transmitting the SWR begins to increase after the fan has been on > for a while. I have not noticed this before. Anyone else observe this? > I made sure the tpa was set correctly. I recently had the KPA > -100 apart and installed new thermal pads. I wonder if the > finals are getting too hot? SWR comes down as the rig cools again. > > I have not retightened the screws on the finals but am going to > do that after I send this note. > > Any suggestions? > > Pat W8FV/5H9PD > -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/580 - Release Date: 12/8/2006 12:53 PM ___ 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] Tracking Local QRN
I recently uncovered a surprising source of in-house r.f. interference on 40 meters, hindering reception on my beloved K2/100. I had already eliminated such sources as defective touchlamp units, and replaced wall-mounted dimmer switches that are infamous for the static they generate. That left me still contending with a wide, noisy signal about every 10kc across the entire 40 meter band, including 7045 where Kevin conducts the Sunday ECN sessions. I grabbed my handy KX1 and a loose coil of wire, clipping it to the antenna input and using it as a direction-finding loop. In no time at all, it led me right to the source of the signal our home security system! An oscillator used in the device was radiating strong harmonics throughout the house on all the wires running to the door and window sensors. Talk about a curtain antenna! In this case, the cure is expensive because the central monitoring unit is having to be replaced. It was not type-approved by the FCC. The new system is guaranteed not to be a spurious generator on the ham bands. I'd never thought of the KX1, or any of the little Elecraft rigs, as an rf interference "sniffer," but they work ideally for that purpose. A properly designed, handheld loop antenna might be required in tougher cases, but give anything handy a try and see what surprises you uncover. Happy hunting. Dale -K6PJV Sacramento, CA. ___ 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] SWR Increases
I have a K2/KPA-100 and the tuner also. I have recently tried 160 M. and noticed that as I operate and the rig heats up from transmitting the SWR begins to increase after the fan has been on for a while. I have not noticed this before. Anyone else observe this? I made sure the tpa was set correctly. I recently had the KPA -100 apart and installed new thermal pads. I wonder if the finals are getting too hot? SWR comes down as the rig cools again. I have not retightened the screws on the finals but am going to do that after I send this note. Any suggestions? Pat W8FV/5H9PD ___ 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] Amplifier to build
FWIW. I built one of the CCI amps (don't recall which one at the moment), and I was not very impressed with the input or output return loss. I have a plot from my VNA if interested. Distortion was fine, but the match was terrible. Larry N8LP Paul - VE1DY wrote: Hi Mike, The AN762 has sparked my interest too. I have several low power rigs besides my K2. Can the power output be easily adjusted to say 25w, and if condx warrant, crank it up or down on the fly? Also, I take it you need to build a set of low pass filters for every band you plan to operate. I love to see a picture of yours of it's not too much trouble. It looks llike a great project for the Christmas holidays. 73, Paul -ve1dy- On 12/9/06, Mike Short <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: I just assembled the AN762. It is an easy build, although the directions are nowhere Near Elecraft quality. I had to go between the drawings and the schematics some to figure out what went Where. The amplifier modules are pretty robust, and well designed. Very good quality stuff. I recommend them. ___ 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] Amplifier to build
Hi Mike, The AN762 has sparked my interest too. I have several low power rigs besides my K2. Can the power output be easily adjusted to say 25w, and if condx warrant, crank it up or down on the fly? Also, I take it you need to build a set of low pass filters for every band you plan to operate. I love to see a picture of yours of it's not too much trouble. It looks llike a great project for the Christmas holidays. 73, Paul -ve1dy- On 12/9/06, Mike Short <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: I just assembled the AN762. It is an easy build, although the directions are nowhere Near Elecraft quality. I had to go between the drawings and the schematics some to figure out what went Where. The amplifier modules are pretty robust, and well designed. Very good quality stuff. I recommend them. ___ 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] More K2 power?
K2 enclosure acting like a heat sink will not be enough to handle more heat/power A heat sink should be added to have the ability to handle more BTU ! :-)) - Message initial De : Fred (FL) <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> À : elecraft@mailman.qth.net Envoyé le : samedi 9 décembre 2006, 10 h 45 min 46 s Objet : [Elecraft] More K2 power? Wonder how much trouble it would be for Elecraft designer(s), to beef up the K2's final amp pair - like 50%? It would seem to be fairly straight forward to swap out the matched amplifer FETs - with a pair and associated changed circuitry to beef K2's output potential to like 30watts? Or double what it is now? Possible? Sort of like a new pair of shoes. Fred N3CSY Have a burning question? Go to www.Answers.yahoo.com and get answers from real people who know. ___ 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 __ Do You Yahoo!? En finir avec le spam? Yahoo! Courriel vous offre la meilleure protection possible contre les messages non nollicités http://mail.yahoo.ca Yahoo! Courriel ___ 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] More K2 power?
Wonder how much trouble it would be for Elecraft designer(s), to beef up the K2's final amp pair - like 50%? It would seem to be fairly straight forward to swap out the matched amplifer FETs - with a pair and associated changed circuitry to beef K2's output potential to like 30watts? Or double what it is now? Possible? Sort of like a new pair of shoes. Fred N3CSY Have a burning question? Go to www.Answers.yahoo.com and get answers from real people who know. ___ 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 rain ?
Very interesting Geoff, thanks for the comments. I've deliberately not installed those front end diodes in my K2. As to the rain static, we've had very severe rainstorms in France as I believe you too have experienced in the UK and this problem with rain static I have never heard so bad, however this is a relatively new antenna installation for me. The vertical element is constructed from a 42' length of coax using the braid as the radiator to provide a fat wire, this radiator is suspended "inside" a Spiderbeam fiberglass pole so is in no way in direct contact with the rain. I used to use a butternut vertical (exposed aluminium vertical radiator) and didn't notice rain static quite like this. Yes my feeling is the resistor bleed would be better than the choke for the reasons you mention, still, I've just been out and measured the resistance from the antenna to ground and of course it reads zero Ohms, through the ATU I imagine so I don't quite see why I need a further static bleed path, but I'll try it anyway. Good to hear your K2 is a survivor, I've not had that horror, something I dread, however at the base of my antenna is a spark gap arrestor and then the auto ATU so...fingers crossed. 73, Deni F5VJC Geoffrey Mackenzie-Kennedy wrote: Deni, My suggestion is that you use a resistor and not a choke. A choke at some frequencies will become a series resonant L-C 'tuned' circuit, and it is quite possible that the choke will resonate in or close to one of the bands that you use. If that is the case you will loose transmitter power heating up the choke, likewise the strength of received signals reaching the receiver can be reduced. For static bleeds I usually use 100k 2w carbon resistors, the old fashioned type not carbon film, because the resistors *must* be non-inductive types. My K2 survived a lightning strike to my 40m beam, but I think that the combination of a coax spark gap out in the garden and an underground coax feeder with 'surge loops' took out much of the sting. Back to back diodes for protection against overload can create all sorts of intermodulation problems if the diodes start to conduct, and for those of us in Europe who share 40m with BC stations and using receivers which cannot cope, overload is a problem but there are solutions. Please contact me off list if you are interested. 73, Geoff GM4ESD - Original Message - From: "Deni" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Saturday, December 09, 2006 9:52 AM Subject: [Elecraft] Static rain ? I have recently been plagued by rain static on a new vertical antenna, this is a 42 foot vertical fed at the base through an SG230 auto tuner, and used on all bands. It seems I need a static bleed of some sort, a choke or resistor. What is the best component to use in an outdoor environment? My junk box RF chokes look rather puny for this application, the typical small 2.5mH RF choke. Would a physically large, say 1 Meg resistor be more suitable ? I thought the auto ATU would in itself provide a static bleed path, but apparently not. Is the K2 prone to front end damage due to this static charge? I do not have the back to back diodes fitted (to prevent huge signal overload) Any thoughts, how have you solved this? 73, Deni F5VJC ___ 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] FOR SALE - Unopened KAF2 kit - Audio Filter / Real-time clock
Purchased kit a little over a year ago - decided to build the KDSP2 instead. Please contact off list 73, Jack KA1QG ___ 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 rain ?
Deni, My suggestion is that you use a resistor and not a choke. A choke at some frequencies will become a series resonant L-C 'tuned' circuit, and it is quite possible that the choke will resonate in or close to one of the bands that you use. If that is the case you will loose transmitter power heating up the choke, likewise the strength of received signals reaching the receiver can be reduced. For static bleeds I usually use 100k 2w carbon resistors, the old fashioned type not carbon film, because the resistors *must* be non-inductive types. My K2 survived a lightning strike to my 40m beam, but I think that the combination of a coax spark gap out in the garden and an underground coax feeder with 'surge loops' took out much of the sting. Back to back diodes for protection against overload can create all sorts of intermodulation problems if the diodes start to conduct, and for those of us in Europe who share 40m with BC stations and using receivers which cannot cope, overload is a problem but there are solutions. Please contact me off list if you are interested. 73, Geoff GM4ESD - Original Message - From: "Deni" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Saturday, December 09, 2006 9:52 AM Subject: [Elecraft] Static rain ? I have recently been plagued by rain static on a new vertical antenna, this is a 42 foot vertical fed at the base through an SG230 auto tuner, and used on all bands. It seems I need a static bleed of some sort, a choke or resistor. What is the best component to use in an outdoor environment? My junk box RF chokes look rather puny for this application, the typical small 2.5mH RF choke. Would a physically large, say 1 Meg resistor be more suitable ? I thought the auto ATU would in itself provide a static bleed path, but apparently not. Is the K2 prone to front end damage due to this static charge? I do not have the back to back diodes fitted (to prevent huge signal overload) Any thoughts, how have you solved this? 73, Deni F5VJC ___ 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 Firmware request
G'day, | I'm sure this has been asked before but I sure would like to have VFO-B have | its own 'mode' register so I could store 28.025 as CW and 28.500 as USB. | | Is that possible or is there no room at the inn? This has been asked for for years. Sadly it will fall on totally deaf ears at Elecraft. Not even a hint if it's possible or not. Regards, Mike VP8NO ps. US 10M contest stations blasting in at 9++ here. ___ 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:(Elecraft) Barebones K2 Amplifier
Dave, Stick to the KPA100 amplifier for your K2. I use one here and there is no comparison with other amps. The KPA100 is fully integrated with the K2 and is a real pleasure to use. Trust me! 73, Bob VE3XM K2/100 S/N 04031 K2 S/N 04575 ___ 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] Trade KX1 for K1?
Have KX1 w/30m and tuner and key. Looking for 4 band K1 , preferably with battery pack and tuner. Anyone interested? Can send pics. 73 John K5MO -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.15.9/573 - Release Date: 12/5/2006 ___ 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] KPA100/KAT100 on 160 Hi Current
Fraser, What is the power level at 'full power'? I have seen K2/100s that could easily develop 160 watts on 160. To be consistent, measure the current drawn from the power supply while the KPA100 is delivering 100 watts to a 50 ohm dummy load. All other comparisons are filled with unknown variables. There is a difference between a Hi Cur message (base K2 drawing more than the CAL CUR limit) and a high current being drawn from the supply powering the KPA100 (amplifier is drawing excessive current). Also, measure the voltage delivered by the power supply to the KPA100 APP connector during transmit. If the voltage drops, the K2 will crank up the power (draw more current) to attempt to provide the full requested power output - and if the PS voltage drops significantly the problem is in the power supply and the connecting cable rather than in the K2/100. Sorry for the longish answer, but there are several variables that should be sorted out before determining if a problem exists and if so where it is located. In general an amplifier that draws excessive current AND has lower than expected power output, one can point to the LPF for the source of the problem, BUT excessive current with proper power output is usually caused by too low a power supply voltage or bad power supply connections. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > Hi, our clubs K2/100 has the same problem with high curent at > full power on > 160m, but my own is ok. Has anyone found a cure? > > 73 Fraser G4BJM > > -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/580 - Release Date: 12/8/2006 12:53 PM ___ 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] 30 meters again
Stan, That is quite unusual to have the S-meter at an S-3 level with no antenna on only one band - that would be an indicator of some internal signal being picked up inside the receiver. That is not typical, so you do have something abnormal there. One potential source is 2nd harmonic radiation from the 5.068 mHz oscillator in the AGC IF (on the control board) and is being picked up by the receiver front end, but that is only a guess - you may want to examine that area to see if it is well soldered and try to clip any leads that may be acting as a short antenna. I have never observed a similar condition on any K2, so it is not characteristic of the receiver design. OTOH, if you really have a strong signal source at your location, it could be picked up even with no antenna connected. Try shorting the antenna and see if that lowers the level - if it does, look for your local source of radiation. Try another receiver to see if it also picks up 'bad stuff' in the 30 meter vicinity. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > Don W3FPR, I wanted to relate something I am seeing with the K2 > S-meter when tuned to the 30m band. I have two bars showing continuously, > whether I have the preamp off or the attenuator on or the antenna > completely > disconnected. Just shows those first two bars all the time. It does not do > this on any other band. I tried power cycling the K2 and this did > not help. > Do you have any idea what might be causing it? > > Stan Rife > W5EWA > Houston, TX > K2 S/N 4216 > -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/580 - Release Date: 12/8/2006 12:53 PM ___ 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 rain ?
Deni, I would be tempted to wind my own RF Choke. Use a large ferrite core (FT240-61 for instance) and wind as many turns of 20 guage wire on it as you can. Connect it from the vertical to ground and see if it works. Unless you have some unusual condition where the static noise is creating huge voltages at the antenna input, it is not likely to damage the receiver - the annoyance of listening to it is the baggest problem. This is noise pickup from static discharges at the antenna rather than a direct discharge of static into the receiver. The diodes in the T/R switch will offer some protection for the K2 receiver. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > > I have recently been plagued by rain static on a new vertical antenna, > this is a 42 foot vertical fed at the base through an SG230 auto tuner, > and used on all bands. It seems I need a static bleed of some sort, a > choke or resistor. What is the best component to use in an outdoor > environment? > My junk box RF chokes look rather puny for this application, the typical > small 2.5mH RF choke. > Would a physically large, say 1 Meg resistor be more suitable ? > I thought the auto ATU would in itself provide a static bleed path, > but apparently not. > Is the K2 prone to front end damage due to this static charge? I do not > have the back to back diodes fitted (to prevent huge signal overload) > > Any thoughts, how have you solved this? > > 73, Deni > > F5VJC > -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/580 - Release Date: 12/8/2006 12:53 PM ___ 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 Firmware request
I should have said "..so I could store 28.025 as CW on VFO-A and 28.500 as USB on VFO-B" - Original Message - From: "Tom Althoff" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Elecraft" Sent: Saturday, December 09, 2006 7:37 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K2 Firmware request I'm sure this has been asked before but I sure would like to have VFO-B have its own 'mode' register so I could store 28.025 as CW and 28.500 as USB. Is that possible or is there no room at the inn? Also, does the RS-232 command set allow querying which VFO is active? I use B for SSB during contests and A for CW. Tom K2TA ___ 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] K2 Firmware request
I'm sure this has been asked before but I sure would like to have VFO-B have its own 'mode' register so I could store 28.025 as CW and 28.500 as USB. Is that possible or is there no room at the inn? Also, does the RS-232 command set allow querying which VFO is active? I use B for SSB during contests and A for CW. Tom K2TA ___ 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] 30m gain
Stan: I have experience the main component of what you have described, namely, the high "S" meter reading with the preamp on. I have intermittent line noise here (luckily, mostly gone). When the noise is "off," I can switch in the preamp and there is no change in the ambient reading on the meter. If the noise is "on," my meter sits at 1 bar (not as bad as yours) and when I put the preamp on, the meter jumps up a lot (I really did not take notice of how much, but a lot) and the band feels "not usable" due to so much loud noise. I would suggest that you "test" whether or not this is a local line noise (or some other source: touch lamps, etc) by putting together a small but directional antenna. A simple rotatable dipole will do (kinda big for 30m, but smaller will be okay too...try it on 10m...assuming that you have the noise on 10m as well). Then just "rotate" the dipole (arm-strong method is fine) and see if you can notch (null) the noise. At least you'll know where the noise isn't then and also know that your K2 if working FB. Good luck! de Doug KR2Q ___ 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] For sale in Europe (EU) K2#5619 + KSB2
Build this kit last summer just for the fun of building another K2. I am an electrical engineer and have been building kits for some 50 years. I would like to sell it just at the price I payed for it, including postage from the US and taxes (VAT) and including the US$ 50 Dayton discount: EUR 675 total. If you want other options, I can build them for you. Please reply off list. Gerard PA1GP [EMAIL PROTECTED] K2/100 4536 K2 5619 ___ 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] Static rain ?
I have recently been plagued by rain static on a new vertical antenna, this is a 42 foot vertical fed at the base through an SG230 auto tuner, and used on all bands. It seems I need a static bleed of some sort, a choke or resistor. What is the best component to use in an outdoor environment? My junk box RF chokes look rather puny for this application, the typical small 2.5mH RF choke. Would a physically large, say 1 Meg resistor be more suitable ? I thought the auto ATU would in itself provide a static bleed path, but apparently not. Is the K2 prone to front end damage due to this static charge? I do not have the back to back diodes fitted (to prevent huge signal overload) Any thoughts, how have you solved this? 73, Deni F5VJC -- 73, Deni F5VJC ___ 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] KPA100/KAT100 on 160 Hi Current
Hi, our clubs K2/100 has the same problem with high curent at full power on 160m, but my own is ok. Has anyone found a cure? 73 Fraser G4BJM From: John Reiser <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: J F <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>,Elecraft Discussion List Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA100/KAT100 on 160 Hi Current Date: Thu, 07 Dec 2006 10:42:56 -0500 Hi Julius, Both my K2/100s, #4970 and #5570 exhibit excessive current draw on 160 meters, as indicated by the ammeter on my 30 watt Astron PS. It gets up to 27 or 28 amps. I use a 30 amp fuse. In every other respect, my two K2/100's work perfectly. Current draw on all the other bands is less than 20 amps. I don't have an antenna for 160, so I never transmit on that band anyway, and this is not a big problem for me. Still, being a bit of a perfectionist, it bothers me that it exists. I mentioned it on the reflector a while ago. Someone said they had the same experience, but had no solution. Someone else suggested that I retune the 80 meter bandpass filter to represent a compromise between 80 and 160. I tried that, but the excessive current draw continued regardless of the bandpass tuning. (Could it be due to the KPA100 going into oscillation at the 160 frequency?) When I saw your post, I became hopeful that it might evoke a response from someone who had come up with the definitive solution. But so far there hasn't been any. Good luck and 73, John, W2GW - Original Message - From: "J F" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Elecraft Discussion List" Sent: Wednesday, December 06, 2006 5:49 AM Subject: [Elecraft] KPA100/KAT100 on 160 Hi Current Well ARRL 160 is history now. As usual, with the K2 I heard more than I could get to hear me ;o) Evidently I heard and worked more than some of the local contesters with "other" brand equipment heheh. Anyway I have a problem... I use the KPA100 with the KAT100, and there may be no connection between the two, to stretch the bandwith of my antenna. If I set the K2 for 100 watts (or just twist the knob far clockwise), the ALC does not kick in. In a key down situation, the current keeps climbing until the fuse blows. If I set it for 99 watts (I realize this is not that precise) the ALC does function somewhat. I've not tried it with a dummy load. The antenna was fairly well matched (1.2:1 at it best point)and has a current balun on it. So this really shouldn't be happening. Do I have a problem with the KPA? Thanks, Julius n2wn Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited ___ 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 _ It's Hotmail's 10th Birthday! Come and play Pass the Parcel http://www.msnpasstheparcel.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
