Re: [Elecraft] Radio Shack Solder ??
The 63/37 is what is called eutectic solder because it has a very sharp melting temp dip at the eutectic temperature of tin/lead alloy. It can be difficult to solder with because it has almost no pasty state going almost directly from liquid to solid. Its primary use is for rapid soldering processes that are usually automatic. It also has one other use, because it is the lowest melting temperature tin/lead alloy, it can be used in special applications called two stage soldering. It this process an initial soldering of a component is done usings, say 60/40 or maybe 50/50 which has a higher melting point, and can then have additional soldering done with the 63/37 without causing it all to come apart. Obviously this type process would require extreme control of soldering tools. Al, WA6VNN ** See what's free at http://www.aol.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] K3 Display Question
Great, and good photo. The thing is, on a radio of this type, the LED LCD backlight current draw is not that significant. (DSP's take some current, this is not a K2 in current draw). However, in sunlight (or flash camera) the transflective display remains viewable. -- Alan, WB6ZQZ -- www.AntennaLaunchers.com At 09:04 PM 5/27/2007, Don Rasmussen wrote: Hi Alan, You hit the nail on the head, I think with a small amount of room light the display should look like the attached photo. beauty. Thanks, Don --- Alan Biocca <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > I believe that Wayne indicated that the LCD is > transflective, so it > will be viewable with or without backlight. > > -- Alan, wb6zqz > > > At 08:41 PM 5/27/2007, Don Wilhelm wrote: > >Don, > > > >I am not certain what you mean by 'view the display > in LCD fashion', BUT: > > > >The LCD Backlighting intensity is adjustable - also > the LED > >brightness is also adjustable. Wayne demonstrated > that several > >times at Dayton. > > > >73, > >Don W3FPR > > > >Don Rasmussen wrote: > >>Is it possible to view the display in LCD fashion, > >>having a lesser backlight as opposed to the bright > >>yellow (OMNIGLOW) type setup? The ARRL Dayton > photo > >>seems to show it as a traditional LCD display. > >>Also noticed that there are separate SWR and > Relative > >>power graphs on the display for simultaneous > viewing. > >>As the Brits say "Brilliant!" ;-) > > ___ 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 Report for May 27th & 28th, 2007
Good Evening, Another fun couple of nets. Twenty meters was pretty good but the last minute switch in frequency to avoid the very active contest may have thrown many of you off the trail. Sorry but there was no way to get on the air anywhere near 14050 kHz since it was wall to wall operators. I tried to get above the RTTY and packet frequencies while avoiding the beacon frequency too. It took a while to get my first nibble so I recorded my CQ ECN string for further use. While I was running in beacon mode I got a bite but missed the call because I was too busy trying to figure out how to make it quit calling! I think I finally remembered to push a button. I know a paddle stroke would do the same thing but in the heat of the moment all that knowledge went out the window. If I only understood what I know I'd be dangerous ;) Still not sure if the paddle stroke is transmitted or not. The forty meter net was far more productive and lasted for nearly an hour. The Midwest had its normal thunderstorms but luckily they were not near Tom so he could call CQ for a while. Good Grief! As I was working through the database I noticed the date. Next week will be the fourth anniversary of the first net! My how time flies! I'll be at SeaPac (our version of a local hamfest) in Seaside, Oregon on Saturday, June 2nd. I'll get to talk with Ron as he explains the K3 to us all. Lisa will be there to take orders so I hope she brings plenty of forms :) Karl, NM7N, is going to pick me up so we can dig under folks' tables and see what goodies we can find. If I find some wire, tubes, sockets, some pc board, and maybe some variable capacitors I'd be satisfied. Since there is no sales tax in Oregon folks from Washington and California stop in to buy rigs from the vendors. As far as I can tell there is no discounting but it is fun to see folks and look at parts. Plus we get to see (and drool on) a K3. On to the lists => On 14120 kHz at 2300z: AC7AC - Ron - OR - ? not sure which rig since we chatted about SeaPac KT5E - Jay - CO - K2 - 5037 K9ZTV - Kent - MO - KX1 - 1354 QNI #5!! On 7045 kHz at 0200z: W6ZH - Pete - CA - K2 - 5138 N0SS - Tom - MO - K2 - 008 N9IV - Russ - IN - KX1 - 742 K7TQ - Randy - ID - K2 - 213 W0RSR - Mike - CO - K2 - 5767 W3MC - Mike - MD - KX1 - 1797 With a new rig in running order. K1THP - Dave - CT - K2 - 3942 W0CZ - Ken - ND - K2 - 1031 QNI #170 WU7F - Mark - UT - K2 - 2965 is on the air!! VE3XL - Ric - ON - K1 - 968 KA5OAI - Sam - TX - ? N5SM - Scott - TX - K2 - 5846 QNI #5!! WB5BKL - Cranz - TX - ? WI6O - John - CA - K1 - 922 K6PJV - Dale - CA - K2 - 5345 N0AR - Scott - MN - K2 - 4866 KT5E - Jay - CO - K2 - 5037 Thanks for joining us this evening and I hope you had a good time. I know there were a couple who we simply could not drag out of the QRN. Please try again next week because the bands will be different. I'll be back from the 'fest with money left over(?). Tomorrow I am going to build another small kit just to keep my soldering iron happy. While at OzarkCon we all got one of KD1JV's keyer kits. That will fit nicely into the MMR-40 which is nearing completion. The FCC-1 I just built will be a good bit of test equipment as I continue building things over the next few years. Hopefully I can get the FCC-2 working just as well so I can inject signals in the circuits and look at the results with my oscilloscope. One day I may just learn electronics :) Until next week stay well, 73, Kevin. KD5ONS (Net Control 5th Class) P.S. By the way: SeaPac is where I met Carter, N3AO, a number of years ago with his lovely wife Kay, N3KN. Get well quick Carter!! KJR ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KX1 resistance tests help
Hello All, I've finished the first part of the build and I am at the resistance testing part. I wanted to check the values I'm getting. For U1 Pin Value(Ohms) 1 3.175K 2 Open 3 5.78K 4 5.79K 5 40K+ 6 Open 7 Open 8 0.2(short to ground) 9 Open 10 Open 11 Open 12 Open 13 20.02K 14 20K 15 Open 16 19.98K 17 2.669M 18 16.34M 19 0.2(short to ground) 20 3.165K 21 Open 22 Open 23 Open 24 Open 25 Open 26 Open 27 Open 28 Open The second test against D2/3 doesn't seem to make much sense to me. S1 doesn't seem to effect the test, but S2 does. Isn't S1 for the LED? The values I do see seem to be in the Mega Ohm range, not Kilo. Can someone verify the results I'm getting, I really don't want to fry any of the parts. Thanks, -Chris Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on Yahoo! TV. http://tv.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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Display Question
I believe that Wayne indicated that the LCD is transflective, so it will be viewable with or without backlight. -- Alan, wb6zqz At 08:41 PM 5/27/2007, Don Wilhelm wrote: Don, I am not certain what you mean by 'view the display in LCD fashion', BUT: The LCD Backlighting intensity is adjustable - also the LED brightness is also adjustable. Wayne demonstrated that several times at Dayton. 73, Don W3FPR Don Rasmussen wrote: Is it possible to view the display in LCD fashion, having a lesser backlight as opposed to the bright yellow (OMNIGLOW) type setup? The ARRL Dayton photo seems to show it as a traditional LCD display. Also noticed that there are separate SWR and Relative power graphs on the display for simultaneous viewing. As the Brits say "Brilliant!" ;-) ___ 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] K3 Display Question
Don, I am not certain what you mean by 'view the display in LCD fashion', BUT: The LCD Backlighting intensity is adjustable - also the LED brightness is also adjustable. Wayne demonstrated that several times at Dayton. 73, Don W3FPR Don Rasmussen wrote: Is it possible to view the display in LCD fashion, having a lesser backlight as opposed to the bright yellow (OMNIGLOW) type setup? The ARRL Dayton photo seems to show it as a traditional LCD display. Also noticed that there are separate SWR and Relative power graphs on the display for simultaneous viewing. As the Brits say "Brilliant!" ;-) ___ 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] K3 Display Question
Don, There are three menu setting that affect the LCD display. 1. LCD brightness (backlight brightness) 2. LCD Adj - Used to optimize the display when viewed at different angles 3. LED brightness - used to adjust the LED brightness compared to the LCD background brightness Hope this helps. 73 and thanks. Greg AB7R -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Don Rasmussen Sent: Sunday, May 27, 2007 8:26 PM To: Elecraft List Subject: [Elecraft] K3 Display Question Is it possible to view the display in LCD fashion, having a lesser backlight as opposed to the bright yellow (OMNIGLOW) type setup? The ARRL Dayton photo seems to show it as a traditional LCD display. Also noticed that there are separate SWR and Relative power graphs on the display for simultaneous viewing. As the Brits say "Brilliant!" ;-) ___ 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] K3 Display Question
Is it possible to view the display in LCD fashion, having a lesser backlight as opposed to the bright yellow (OMNIGLOW) type setup? The ARRL Dayton photo seems to show it as a traditional LCD display. Also noticed that there are separate SWR and Relative power graphs on the display for simultaneous viewing. As the Brits say "Brilliant!" ;-) ___ 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] Good News-Bad News
Which rig, Thom??? Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Thom LaCosta THe good news is that my slinky, inside the house, with a set of counterpoise wires seems to worknot great, but I can reach out and touch folks. The bad news is that the af gain control no longer does anything...audio is running wide open...so I am in the Old Timer Mode...things are controlled by the RF gain. How difficult is it to replace the control? I don't see up close that well and have "the shakes"but I'm willing to try. I have visions of my neighbors, all of which seem to come from the mountains and carry ax handles not accepting that is is perfectly normal to listen to loud beeps in the night. Thom ___ 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] a K3 owner's contest reflections on the K2
HI all: Just finished the CQWW WPX cw contest. Weird condx, but lots of fun. I note lots of comments on the K2 of late (this weekend).here are my 2 cents (maybe a dime). After having been plugged in for most of the weekend, here are my take-aways (none of which are new). 1. I own the "base" K2 with the 160m module. So base price was under $650. 2. You simply cannot buy any radio that performs this well under harsh conditions for anywhere near this price...even used. The performance on the lows band is unsurpassed for anything even double or triple the price (probably a lot more). 3. What's wrong with the K2 for cw contesting (IMHO) A. The QSK is almost worthless. At the first setting above Ø.ØØ, you just can't hear between the dits and dahs. And at zero, it's too noisy. B. Every time I change antennas (even on the same band), I have to depress the TUNE button so that I can get "stable" qrp output (5 watts). This is an extra step I did hundreds of time this weekend. It is now 2nd nature, but a royal pain (yes, all my antenna are resonant, but just not "the same" according to the K2. C. The AGC is not set up correctly. Weak signals are, well, too weak (audio) and strong signals blow my ears off. The AF knob is my friend...but I don't want it to be. I don't use RIT/XIT in the contest (since I"m qrp, I don't "run" much), so I don't miss the lack of the CLEAR button. I use the "400hz" filter (forget what it is exactly) and it is wide enough so I can hear callers substantially off frequency without RIT'ing. For my style of contesting, I NEVER change the XFIL selection (good ears, I guess). Anyhow, all of the above are SUPPOSED TO BE addressed in the K3. Hpe to find out soon. Anyhow, the K2 is a might fine contest radio for qrpers (it is not IC7800 for those who like dual receive, a band scope, etc etc etc). I cannot think of a better radio VALUE for contesting. This is hands-down the clear winner, probably over the K3 also. The K3 is (hopefully) also a great VALUE for contesters, but the K2 is just impossible to touch. OH yeahI worked 896 stations, 439 prefixes, and a claimed score of 991,262. Not too shabby for a $600 box. 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] Good News-Bad News
THe good news is that my slinky, inside the house, with a set of counterpoise wires seems to worknot great, but I can reach out and touch folks. The bad news is that the af gain control no longer does anything...audio is running wide open...so I am in the Old Timer Mode...things are controlled by the RF gain. How difficult is it to replace the control? I don't see up close that well and have "the shakes"but I'm willing to try. I have visions of my neighbors, all of which seem to come from the mountains and carry ax handles not accepting that is is perfectly normal to listen to loud beeps in the night. Thom www.baltimorehon.com/Home of the Baltimore Lexicon www.tlchost.net/hosting/ Web Hosting as low as 3.49/month ___ 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 to K3 - Outside the Box
In looking at the K2 schematic, it occurred to me that you could take the IF from the Noise Blanker plug, buffer it, and send to an outboard unit (how's that for outside of the box thinking) that could have the roofing filters and downconverter to the 15KHz DSP IF and then use the K3 DSP technology. You could even have an additional control panel on the outboard box to provide access to the K3 functions. Or you could add an RS-232/USB interface and provide all of the control functions with a PC. With intefaces to both units, the PC software could merge the K2 functionality with the K3 DSP functionality for an integrated system. Since the K2 IF is not changed, you could easily remove the outboard box to restore the K2 to its original form. And for first time purchasers, you'd get something to solder (K2) and something to assemble (K2 DSP+). Best of both worlds! Logan, KZ6O #1609 P.S. Wayne, I volunteer to be a beta tester. Lee Buller wrote: I've been reading the thread about the future of the K2...a gound breaking radio that will live in infamey. Some have wondered if the K2 is a dead radio or will be dropped buy Elecraft. Of course "E" has responded noYEA! Here is my pointmaybe the K3 technology (which really was an outgrowth - or evolution - of the K2 experience for the fine fellows at Aptos) will "boomerang" back to the K2. Why couldn't there be a redesign of pieces and parts in the K2 that is a result of the K3 experience. What would it be to put out a new control board that takes the lessons from the K3 to the K2? Like a faster CPU, more memory, more features, etc. Maybe buying an upgrade kit (new board etc) to the K2 in the future turns it into a K2.5/100 or a K2.8/100. You know, a K2 on Steriods. Lee - K0WA In our day and age it seems that Common Sense is in short supply. If you don't have any Common Sense - get some Common Sense and use it. If you can't find any Common Sense, ask for help from somebody who has some Common Sense. Is Common Sense devine? ___ 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] Elecraft CW Net Announcement - change for 20 m
Hello Everyone, Fred is very correct in his assessment of twenty meters. It is jam packed with CW contesters up to the data portion of the band. I am monitoring 14120 kHz now to see if any data or CW folks are using it. It appears I have privileges there but am not sure of the gentlemen's agreement concerning CW activity in that segment of the band. Until advised otherwise I will try running the early net at 14120 kHz to avoid the very active contest. Let's play this one by ear folks. 14120 kHz unless it too is busy or out of bounds for us. We may just have to cancel 20 meters today. 73, Kevin. KD5ONS -Original Message- >From: Fred Jensen <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >Sent: May 27, 2007 10:24 AM >To: Kevin Rock <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Announcement > >Kevin Rock wrote: >> >>Tomorrow: >> >> 1) Hail signs (first letter or two of the suffix of your call) >> 2) NCS help (as well as QSP/QNP help) >> >>Please join us: >> >> Sunday 2300z (Sunday 4 PM PDT) 14050 kHz >> Monday 0200z (Sunday 7 PM PDT) 7045 kHz > >Hi Kevin, > >WPX CW is underway until 1700 PDT 20 is pretty full below 14070. >Might want to hold it today above there? > >73, > >Fred K6DGW >- Northern California Contest Club >- CU in the 2007 CQP Oct 6-7 >- www.cqp.org ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] #6107 Now has tilt stand
Jimmy, I hope I'm not duplicating what others may have said ... Mount one front foot "normally" Get the other foot and it's hardware laid out ready to pick up ... Two longer ... 3/4 to 1 inch 4-40 screws ... will intitally make the job easier. After you get the bail in place, remove the long screws one-at-a-time and replace them with the "normal" 4-40 screws. It WILL work ... 6000+ of 'em are in place now ... (:-)) 73! Ken Kopp - K0PP [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ 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] SeaPac and HamCom
Two great Hamfests are on the horizon and Elecraft will be there! SeaPac is June 2 and 3 in Seaside Oregon. Lisa will be there with Ron D'Eau Claire, Greg Fischer and other helpers. and YES- a K3. HamCom June 9 and 10, Plano Texas. Eric, Lerma and YES the K3 will be there. To help us decide how much product to bring, send me an email of what you are considering purchasing at either show. That way we won't disappoint anyone. and NO, we cannot bring K3's for you but can take orders. (Orders placed now will be shipping in October) If you would like to help out at the Elecraft booth at either show, be sure to let us know. Hope to see you there! Lisa and Eric ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] #6107 Now has tilt stand
I'm glad to see this item being discussed. I've had my K-2 for about a year and I've never completed the bale assembly step. I wrote to Elecraft to report my bale part as defective because it didn't fit anywhere near like what I was expecting. I was told in return by Elecraft that the bale sent to me was a correct part and acknowledged that the bale assembly is difficult. I haven't touched my bale since. Anyone want to buy an unused bale? Jimmy Walker WA4ILO Macon, GA ___ 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: How do you choose your roofing filter ...?
Hi, I'm wondering is anyone has some pointers as to how to select K3 roofing filters for SSB? With the amount of filters available, what would be a correct set for SSB? thanks and 73 Robin OZ6ABM / 5P5R ___ 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] Radio Shack Solder ??
Some builders prefer other alloys that contain silver, etc. Be aware that they do not all have the same melting temperatures. This could lead to frustration, damaged boards/components, or also a better solder job. Just check the characteristics - all are published on company web sites - before you begin. I've been building with solder since I was 7 years old ( My dad bought me a one tube radio kit ). I used my wood burning kit (Weller) with a filed down copper tip. The only solder I could find was in the garage where I helped dad repair the radiator on our 37 Ford (90hp). It was made by a company called "ACIDCORE" and it was about the diameter of my school pencils. The radio worked great and I had it until I found out I could hook it up to the phonograph and play music through it on the kitchen radio. It was OK until I started getting request from the neighbors for records I didn't have. A neighbor friend dropped in, his name was K6MJX, a funny name I thought, he told me I might like to hear about another way to use my talents. The rest is history!! Thanks Dick, may you rest in peace. 73 de WA6VNN, Al ** See what's free at http://www.aol.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KPA100 Failing to Produce High Power
All has been well up until now, including setting the bias per instructions. Without PA's my bias current was 330 mA, so I successfully set it for 730 mA with the PA's. I had adjusted R26 for 5w and got the VSWR sensor zeroed. During my high power test (into a matched antenna on a clear channel into a good antenna) my VSWR is reading 1.2 on the K2 and similar on my external meter. When I transmit the PA devices do get very hot (too hot to touch after about 10 seconds) but they quickly cool (maybe around 5 seconds or less) after transmit ceases. Here is the behavior i am getting. First column is K2 power setting (on 20m), second is what the K2 reads on transmit, and third is my meter. My meter is not state of the art but it is reasonable with my other rig. K2 SettingK2 Indicated Meter 1515 20 2020 28 2525 30 3023 28 3522 30 4022 35 5023 32 Thinking that maybe R26 was way off, i set the K2 for 40 watts and tried to adjust R26 to read 40 watts - no this got me no where. I tried to operate on different bands with two different antennas. Same impact on all bands, except it has even lower output on 10m. Troubleshooting suggestions appreciated! 73, Curt Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Yahoo! Travel. http://travel.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] Re: Radio Shack Solder ??
I used RS .032 60/40 on my KX1 and it worked fine. The only problems I had during my KX1 build were not related to soldering (i.e., messing up the windings on T1). The product number is 64-009 E. It might not flow as well as the 63/37, but I was happy with the results and didn't have any fillets to deal with. I agree with the other poster who mentioned the investment in a good soldering station. Luckily I had a birthday less than two weeks ago and received a Hakko 936-12 from my parents. Yea! Have a great time melting solder!! -john W4PAH ___ 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] Heat sink compound
Something I thought might be helpful for builders and other techy/service types. Last week I was working with a student in one of my computer classes and we were involved in fixing a MB that was having a thermal shutdown problem with the CPU. It is a late model device with an Intel P4 3GHz that is mounted on a MCI MB (not really pertinent) The CPU was getting up to around 80C and shuting down, so we decided to lift the cooling fan and CPU to check out the contact area. problem was a broken finger on the plastic grip in one corner had snapped. (You'd think intel could supply slightly better hardware for a $300 CPU). There was a lot of dust, etc so we decided to clean of the heat sink compound and replace with fresh compound. We did a thorough cleaning of the compound, a type which is commonly found on computer CPUs, a silver based compound that has high thermal conductivity. Alas, when we went to the storage cabinet in the classroom, we found the compound we usually have on hand, a similar silver filled compound was all used up. So we took out the alumina thermal grease we use for transistor packages and applied this. We uaed to use this all the time on the older 386s and 486s. We removed the broken finger on the cooling fan grip and replace with a tye-wrap that was small enought to fit. Everything worked well and brought the temperature down to about 38C, which was acceptable. The next day, I decided to grab the heat sink compound I had on my home workbench and take it to class with me. We were going to do an experiment, because I had been thinking about this and bouncing it off of 40 years experience in aerospace electronics and satellite assembly. I knew the silver filled compound had better thermal transfer characteristics than the Alumina filled silicon grease compound. In assembly of most space electronics you cannot use these compounds and rely on the solid film tpes when needed. We decided to repeat the compound replacement on the computer, using the more commonly used silver filled on the CPU. After replacing and reassembly we found that the CPU temp was slightly lower at about 32C aaginst a room ambient of 24C. About what we expected to see. OK where am I headed??? There is a significant difference between the two compounds that has little to do with the thermal properties, but has a little to do with the slight improvement of the metal filled compound. . . it is also ELECTRICALLY conductive. My cautionary note here relates to those of you who might opt to use the silver filled material on a power transistor application. Unlike the computer CPU, most power transistors have power and signal voltages on the collector or source/drain. IF the heatsink is part of the circuit and the entire side of the circuit is grounded, there is probably no reason for concern. But, if it is isolated and is "hot electrically", or there is a mica or other insulator between the Device and the heatsink/mounting surface, you could cause a short circuit by using any heat sink compound that is not an electrical insulator. I hope this is helpful and maybe saves someone from a shocking experience. 73 de WA6VNN, Al ** See what's free at http://www.aol.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] Reflector down?
And you passed! -- W2CVZ, Michael ___ 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] K3 pictures updated
Thanks, Paul. Regards, Dick - KA5KKT/4 -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, May 27, 2007 12:49 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3 pictures updated K3 pictures updated with two closeups from Bill, NY9H. www.N4LCD.com/k3 ___ 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] K3 Dayton 2007 photos by Bill NY9H
Hi Dan, good idea. Here are the pix on my webserver. Let me know if there is any difficulty. I will send copies to you. here are three HIGH res pix of of the K3 that Bill NY9H has shared from Dayton 2007 http://www.n9vv.com/NY9H-Dayton-011.jpg http://www.n9vv.com/NY9H-Dayton-015.jpg http://www.n9vv.com/NY9H-Dayton-017.jpg mny tnx, de Ken N9VV Dan Barker wrote: If you email them to me, I'll post them on a "free" website and reply it to the list. ___ 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] K3 pictures updated
K3 pictures updated with two closeups from Bill, NY9H. www.N4LCD.com/k3 ___ 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] Reflector down?
... or is it something I did? This is a test Don K7FJ ___ 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] Radio Shack Solder ??
-BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE- Hash: SHA1 I used Kester #44 .020 diameter for my K2. I only use RS solder on Pl-259's. Get to the Elecraft site and have a look at the recommended solder stations. I bought the Hakko 936 when I started the K2. I think a soldering station should be looked at as an investment, like any other piece of test equipment or tool. You get what you pay for, usually. Rob Lundahl wrote: > Are any of the Radio Shack solder types acceptable for a KX1 build? > > Also any opinions on their digital solder station 64-009? > > Thanks in advance. > > - -- R. Kevin Stover, ACØH -BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE- Version: GnuPG v1.4.7 (MingW32) Comment: Using GnuPG with Mozilla - http://enigmail.mozdev.org iD8DBQFGWZbF11jxjloa2wsRAg8UAKCyRLqGiZfrCWgK5aV8HT7qBKaepACgyRxU aJ7wIo6ZVj+TpqGe2RRRwnU= =VqRf -END PGP SIGNATURE- ___ 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] ARRL review of Dayton 07
New gear review by W1ZR features K3 (first pix!) http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2007/05/23/100/?nc=twiardotorg de ken n9vv ___ 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: Routing coax near CAT5
-BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE- Hash: SHA1 One thing you may want to think about is adding ferrite's to the CAT5 cable at the router/switch end and at the PC. If you're antenna isn't quite up to snuff this will keep RF out of the network. Craig Rairdin wrote: > So right now I run the coax from my HF antenna to a point just outside my > window. When I want to operate I crank open the window and connect the coax > from my rig to the end of the coax outside the window. I don't really have a > way to leave it hooked up all the time because I don't want to leave the > ground-level window partially open. > > I want to run the coax into the house through the wall, up the inside of the > wall into the attic above my office, across the floor of the attic and down > the inside of a wall to an existing utility box that is where all my phone > and network connections are routed. This means I'll have coax running > alongside both phone and CAT5. Seems like a lot of RF. > > I'm only running 100W. I suppose someday I might get some kind of amp but > it's not a priority. But I don't want to rule that out simply because of the > way I routed my antenna feedline. > > I can choose a different routing for the feedline and terminate it in a > different box that's a few feet away from my CAT5 and phone lines, but I'd > prefer not to have to install a new box. > > So my question is, is all that RF going to interfere with my network > connection or my phones? Any thoughts or recommendations? > > Craig > NZ0R > KX1 #1499 > K1 #1966 > K2/100 #4941 > K3/100 < #200 > > ___ > 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 > > - -- R. Kevin Stover, ACØH -BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE- Version: GnuPG v1.4.7 (MingW32) Comment: Using GnuPG with Mozilla - http://enigmail.mozdev.org iD8DBQFGWZTD11jxjloa2wsRAhRTAJ9vJ3pQ1YIB97BmUp7rVU/Fkyam/gCeL0hH lS1W4nWDX5JJLjw6MTWGm7M= =yaAh -END PGP SIGNATURE- ___ 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] K3 Dayton 2007 photos by Bill NY9H
Bill has shared three of his high res closeup photos of the K3 I put them in the photo section of the K3 Yahoo Group http://ph.groups.yahoo.com/group/Elecraft_K3/photos thanks Bill. de ken n9vv ___ 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: Elecraft Amplifiers
No, I wasn't meaning that, Jim. I agree with your comments and I think K3 then amps is a good marketing decision.As you say K3 volume should be in excess of amps but also K3 owners will be more amenable to go for the amps than K2 owners I suspect. What I don't agree with are recent postings on the Reflector where users are saying that Elecraft shouldn't market amps because it is a QRP kit supplier. I used follow business programs in the UK where initially Sir John Harvey-Jones and then Sir Gerry Robinson went in to companies to look and advice them on how to turn the business around if they were in trouble or how to expand. I am sure both would have held Elecraft in high esteem but would have disagreed with the idea of staying a QRP kit supplier. 73 Chris G3SJJ [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: In a message dated 5/27/07 6:21:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I don't understand the argument about Elecraft not marketing amps. T It's simply a matter of available resources, IMHO. It's clear to me that Elecraft made the decision to delay the release of the amplifiers until after the release of the K3, because they don't have the resources to do both and provide adequate support for the entire Elecraft product line all at once. IOW, rather than release everything at once and reduce their standards of customer service, they put K3 ahead of KPAxxx. Since they will probably sell more K3s than KPAs, this makes perfect sense. More than one company supplying the amateur market has gone belly-up because they had great products but lacked a good marketing plan. Elecraft isn't repeating that history. Just my impression from a continent away. 73 de Jim, N2EY ** See what's free at http://www.aol.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 to K3 - Outside the Box
In a message dated 5/27/07 7:58:16 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > Why couldn't there be a redesign of pieces and parts in the K2 that is a > result of the K3 experience. What would it be to put out a new control > board > that takes the lessons from the K3 to the K2? Like a faster CPU, more > memory, more features, etc. If it can be done, you can bet that they will do it. In fact, it's already happened, in the form of the "Rev.B" RF board changes. As I see it, strictly as a casual observer, the big challengea in doing a major control-board rework are: 1) Maintaining backwards compatibility with all existing K2s, so the new board could just be dropped in. 2) Keeping the power requirement down (my K2 draws less than 250 mA on receive) 3) Doing a new control board with only through-hole parts, to retain the no-SMT character of the K2. But you know that if anybody can figure out a way to do it, the Elecraft team will. -- But hey, let's give 'em a *little* time. K3 is a major new product - actually products, because the various versions and options are all hitting the market at once. With previous Elecraft products, the main rig would be introduced, and then the various options added to the line one at a time. 73 de Jim, N2EY ** See what's free at http://www.aol.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] RE: Elecraft Amplifiers
In a message dated 5/27/07 6:21:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > I don't understand the argument > about Elecraft not marketing amps. T It's simply a matter of available resources, IMHO. It's clear to me that Elecraft made the decision to delay the release of the amplifiers until after the release of the K3, because they don't have the resources to do both and provide adequate support for the entire Elecraft product line all at once. IOW, rather than release everything at once and reduce their standards of customer service, they put K3 ahead of KPAxxx. Since they will probably sell more K3s than KPAs, this makes perfect sense. More than one company supplying the amateur market has gone belly-up because they had great products but lacked a good marketing plan. Elecraft isn't repeating that history. Just my impression from a continent away. 73 de Jim, N2EY ** See what's free at http://www.aol.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 to K3 - Outside the Box
I've been reading the thread about the future of the K2...a gound breaking radio that will live in infamey. Some have wondered if the K2 is a dead radio or will be dropped buy Elecraft. Of course "E" has responded noYEA! Here is my pointmaybe the K3 technology (which really was an outgrowth - or evolution - of the K2 experience for the fine fellows at Aptos) will "boomerang" back to the K2. Why couldn't there be a redesign of pieces and parts in the K2 that is a result of the K3 experience. What would it be to put out a new control board that takes the lessons from the K3 to the K2? Like a faster CPU, more memory, more features, etc. Maybe buying an upgrade kit (new board etc) to the K2 in the future turns it into a K2.5/100 or a K2.8/100. You know, a K2 on Steriods. Lee - K0WA In our day and age it seems that Common Sense is in short supply. If you don't have any Common Sense - get some Common Sense and use it. If you can't find any Common Sense, ask for help from somebody who has some Common Sense. Is Common Sense devine? ___ 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] k3 pix from dayton
Is it possible to post them somewhere else? I don't have a snapfish account and don't want the spam such an account generates Simon Brown, HB9DRV Try www.N4LCD.com/k3 ___ 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; K2/100: How Long Supported?
Thanks, Johnny, Eric, Don, Brian and others who responded. Part of the K2's success must be attributable to how well the company and community have adapted to changes since the K2 was first produced. No doubt the foreseeable future will bring even more changes. Speaking for myself, the K2 and K2/100 have some distinct attractions. Some of those reflect my aversion to the 'risk' of shipping 30-34kg radios to/from Japan for care and attention, when something goes wrong! Best 73 Wyn, VR2AX K2 is the cash cow of Elecraft and provides the milk for the business. Through years, all the R&D and sunk costs have been more or less recovered. Unless, there is a big change in demand, I think Elecraft will still manufacture and support it. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] RE: Elecraft Amplifiers
Bill and Doug, you NEED the KPA800 then!! http://www.n6ie.com/Elecraft.html I am not sure if it covers 6m but looking at the toroids I suspect so. Not a "full" kit presumably because of the SMD components and the associated situation as with the K3. I don't understand the argument about Elecraft not marketing amps. The Company has the expertise and the customer base with hundreds if not thousands of 100w amps being used. These are very similar to the modules that would be in the KPA 800/1600 units. There was big interest at Dayton last year and I see these as fulfilling several growing markets sectors. Firstly the users like yourselves, secondly the guys who want a US legal limit amp and finally like myself and others who want 2 amps for an SO2R or multi-op station. Chris G3SJJ Bill W5WVO wrote: [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: IMHO I would like to see a "full kit" amp on the order of the Ameritron ALS-600. A nice "medium power " amp with full QSK and a built in power supply. I think this could have a rather large market. Agreed! About 600-750W out, built-in PS, with 6M COVERAGE (low end of band only, 50.0-50.5) at full power output to go with the K3's 6M capabilities. I think you'd have a sure-fire winner. I would buy one if I had to mortgage my mother's house. ;-) Bill / W5WVO ___ 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] OT: Routing coax near CAT5
If you've got 100Mbps Ethernet in your house, you're probably already hearing noise around 14.031, unless your antenna is far, far away from your networking equipment. It's not just the cables, but also the routers and interface cards that seem to spew this stuff! For a nice discussion of common mode currents and what to do about them, I like the paper by Chuck W1HIS at http://www.yccc.org/Articles/W1HIS/CommonModeChokesW1HIS2006Apr06.pdf Fair-rite makes a snap-on ferrite, p/n 0443164151, which snaps comfortably over three turns of RG-8X. I use two of them to make a choke at the point where my coax enters the house through a window, as well as a coil-wound balun/choke at the base of my vertical. This seems to handle the common mode problems well (but my vertical still picks up all kinds of RF from the neighborhood!) DXEngineering has similar snap-on ferrites in various sizes, too. 73 de chris K6DBG ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
