[Elecraft] signal strength
There are really two problems here and they are not mutually exclusive so beating people up about how an s-meter should work is silly. The idea that an s-unit is 6dB has been around only since Collins decreed it as such. Prior to that it was just an indication of AGC voltage at best. But the real definition of signal strength is a subjective one. The range (by ear) from S1 to S9 really spans only about 15dB-20dB of signal-to-noise ratio. By the time the signal is 20dB out of the noise, it is S-9 by ear even though it only spans about 3 S-units from there down to where it disappears in the noise. So the s-unit as a measurement of absolute signal level is not all that useful. The advent of DSP and SDR means that we can measure both signal strength and S:N very accurately even using a piece of amateur equipment, e.g. the K3. Personally I would rather dispense with S- units altogether and have a display of S:N and of absolute signal strength in dBm. But that is the beauty of software: you don't need to change the hardware to add the feature. Brian Lloyd Granite Bay Montessori School 9330 Sierra College Bl brian AT gbmontessori DOT com Roseville, CA 95661 +1.916.367.2131 (voice)+1.791.912.8170 (fax) PGP key ID: 12095C52A32A1B6C PGP key fingerprint: 3B1D BA11 4913 3254 B6E0 CC09 1209 5C52 A32A 1B6C ___ 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 panadapter choices
K7TV wrote: Researching my options for a K3 panadapter (Softrock, LP-PAN, SDR-IQ, Perseus, Mercury...) I want to thank Paul W9AC for sharing his experience with the SDR-IQ on the list: When observing signal strength on the display, there's ample resolution for signal comparisons. SDR-IQ is powered from the PC's USB port, so only two connections are made (I.F. and USB). SpectraVue supports the K3 and using the point 'n click feature has been great. Click on the display and the K3 instantly moves to that frequency. The only shortcoming I've found is that SpectraVue needs to poll the K3's mode offset data so that changing modes does not require an offset change in SpectraVue. Not sure if that's handled automatically when using LP-PAN and PowerSDR. I would be very interested to read similar detail about the other possible hardware and software choices. An overview table showing which spectrum analysis software packages work with which hardware choices would be very helpful. As long as a the hardware is used for spectrum display (not as a receiver to be listened to) it seems to me that hardware in the low to middle price range is good enough. The issue then is the software choice first and then finding hardware compatible with the software. When choosing software I would really like to know if there is any package available today that already adjusts for the mode offset, or is planned to do so in the near future. A wide and narrow spectrum display window may also be a positive feature in comparing one software package to another, especially if one is going to run other software at the same time. If one contemplates actually listening to the outboard SDR, it seems that more money does buy better performance, although probably none of the reasonable hardware choices will be as good in some contests as the second receiver option of the K3, which has roofing filters. On the other hand, it would hardly be practical for an assistant operator to reach the K3 controls to make use of the second receiver, while the computer controlling an outboard SDR could easily be used by an assistant operator. (Of course depending on the contest, this may or may not be legal for a given entry class.) Maybe the second RX in a K3 could be run from a computer while the rig is otherwise run from the front panel? Maybe two computers (one per operator) could be used to control the K3 with second RX. I don't have experience with the various rig control software available, so I hope someone can enlighten me. 73, Erik K7TV Hello Erik, I have been using an SDR-IQ receiver here as strictly a waterfall display of the band. I also have purchased an LP-PAN here, which I think will be nice because its center will move as the K3 is tuned. The reason I don't have it working so far is because my setup here is kind of non-traditional, and they way I have my logging program connected to my K3 and sequencer doesn't seem to easily work with LP-PAN, and I can't get the PowerSDR software to run on my Vista 64 bit O/S :-( On the other hand, the SDR-IQ works great with the Vista 64 computer. I watch the spectrum with Linrad for Windows, which is most certainly NOT AT ALL user friendly, but is probably the most sensitive, flexible and powerful software program for use with the SDR-IQ. I have not tried the SDR-IQ powered out of the K3 IF port yet, since I like being able to read the frequency off the screenif I change the dial on the K3 and use the IF out as input to the SDR-IQ, I would never be sure of the frequency of the signals shown on the Linrad waterfall. I originally got the SDR-IQ 1.5 years ago to be able to use it as an indicator to watch for 6m band openings (I use it with a 6 to 10 m Hamtronics converter ahead of it), and for that it has been outstanding! Of course, it has really powerful wide band IF noise blanking capabilities too, as well as a small window to adjust filtering on any individual station if you want to use it as a receiver. More information on the Linrad for Windows is here: http://www.sm5bsz.com/linuxdsp/usage/newco/newcomer.htm GL and VY 73, Lance -- Lance Collister, W7GJ (ex: WN3GPL, WA3GPL, WA1JXN, WA1JXN/C6A, ZF2OC/ZF8) P.O. Box 73 Frenchtown, MT 59834 USA QTH: DN27UB TEL: (406) 626-5728 URL: http://www.bigskyspaces.com/w7gj 2m DXCC #11, 6m DXCC #815 ___ 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] Mouser part numbers
I can see that this question has been asked in the past, but appears not to have been answered. Can Elecraft share, assuming it has one, its list of Mouser part numbers for the K2 and its options? I feel that Elecraft must lose money on parts orders which come its way, and I would just as soon order from Mouser where I can add some other things to the order to hopefully make the order profitable for them. John Ferguson AI4TO, M/V Arcadian **Get the Moviefone Toolbar. Showtimes, theaters, movie news more!(http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/10075x1212774565x1200812037/aol?redir=htt p://toolbar.aol.com/moviefone/download.html?ncid=emlcntusdown0001) ___ 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] Questions from a Liberal Arts Major
Unsolder the power pole from the rig and solder the power cable directly to the pcb, job done, no more problems. David G3UNA I have a love-hate relationship with the PowerPole: I love the convenience (e.g., Rigrunner DC manifold); but I hate that the connector does not lock 'n mate as compared to those power connectors manufactured by MOLEX and AMP. Locking the PowerPole requires some external means like a tie-wrap, or the special plastic bridge clip being sold by Anderson. Paul, W9AC ___ 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] My Evaluation Of The K3 Carry Bag By Rose Kopp
Perhaps I am expecting too much, but I rather suspect that a nice case like this one could actually be helpful in getting through security at an airport. With the nice logo and lettering that Rose puts on the case, it really gives more credibility to what's inside. It just seems to me that something professional looking like this would reduce the angst the security folks might otherwise have. Maybe it sounds like whitewash, but when they see a case that says Elecraft K3, and then open it up and sure enough, there's a K3 in there, that just might get you a faster pass! These security people look at thousands of items each day, and most of the time they are probably looking for something hidden which is buried deep in a luggage item. This, however, would be putting it right up front, with a name and everything. But just to add to your arsenal of arguments, in case they do question what it is, I would carry a recent copy of QST with one of those full page ads for the K3 inside. That could be a clincher. Dave W7AQK - Original Message - From: BOB PHILBROOK To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2008 9:27 PM Subject: [Elecraft] My Evaluation Of The K3 Carry Bag By Rose Kopp I always allow plenty of time before I make an evaluation of a product. Most products look good and appear to be able to do the job. It is only in the real word of use can one really find out if a product is quality or not. I have had my K3 carry case by Rose Kopp for 7 months and have used the heck out of it. I have used it to carry my K3 through airport security, on airplanes as carry on luggage, to and from vacation sites, and to and from field day. I can honestly say this is one rugged, well built carry case using quality components that does a beautiful job of protecting and transporting my K3. I ordered one optional add on side pocket in which I put my hand mike and PSK and power cables. The big standard pocket is large enough to carry the K3 operations manual along with other paper documents I might want. So for users looking for a nice padded carry case for your K3, you should drop Rose a note and look at their products. Quality and service are top notch -- something you expect from a K3 related product. Bob, K9PAG -- ___ 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] W1 Watt Meter
Maybe you could consult with Cy, The LED Guy, about identifying some better ones. I think the mod has merit, but I wouldn't know what exactly should be substituted. Cy shows up at most of the QRP gatherings around the country (he comes all the way from Maine), even Pacificon! I suspect he would have some good suggestions, and of course, he could probably sell you what you need. Dave W7AQK - Original Message - From: Bill Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; 'Tom McCulloch' [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2008 8:06 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] W1 Watt Meter I made the mod, and it is a nice touch except for one minor problem for me, the LED's are not as bright as the originals. 73, Bill K9YEQ K2 #35; KX1 #35; K3 #1744; mini mods -Original Message- Hi Tom ... One change I made to my W1 that helps a lot from a usability point-of-view is to replace some of the red LEDs in the SWR indicator with different colors. This is because the W1 is small and has even smaller lettering on the SWR scale. In my installation, and probably most others, it will be located 2 to 5 feet away from the operator and the SWR value will be difficult to read without getting right up close to the W1. Here's what I did: I used green LEDs in the 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 positions. Yellow LEDs in the 1.5 and 1.7 positions. An amber LED in the 2.0 position and left the red LEDs in the higher SWR positions. This way you can tell at a glance (and at a distance) the relative goodness of your SWR situation. Suitable replacement LEDs are readily and inexpensively available from Mouser, etc. Here are the Mouser PNs: Green 696-SSL-LX2573PGD Yellow 696-SSL-LX2573YD Amber 696-SSL-LX2573AD 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 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, N1MM and SO2R/SO2V
Just wanted to let folks know that a few of us from the K3 FT group have been working with John, K3CT with improvements to SO2R/SO2V support. As Wayne makes the list of CAT commands grow to be able to make the K3 stand up and do a jig, third party softare designers are able to leverage the new abilities for improved control schemes. Many of these new commands effect how the K3 responds in SO2R/SO2V. John has been doing a great job on keeping up with the changes and using the new capabilites as they become available. SO2V on different modes is also still in progress as the FW continues to undergo changes to make this happen. This is a very intensive code update as it impacts so many things. So please be patient as this progresses. 73, Greg - AB7R Whidbey Island WA ___ 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] K2/100 for sale in UK
K2/100 #3764, updated to current/latest standard (built by GU3MBS, October 2003). With KSB2 SSB adapter mic. K160RX 160m/RX ant module KAF2 Audio filter/clock K2VCO shielding kit PA screening kit Finger dimple Latest firmware (2.04) Key click mod In excellent condition, complete with original manuals, documentation and packaging. £650.Selling on behalf of radio club.73, Fraser G4BJM [EMAIL PROTECTED] _ See the most popular videos on the web http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/115454061/direct/01/___ 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] Questions from a Liberal Arts Major
I have several Crimper tools but do not really trust crimped power connectors so...I solder all my PowerPoles connectors. It is easy to do...they work everytime and never a crimp problem. Joe KK5NA - Original Message - From: Paul Christensen [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Rich [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2008 4:00 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Questions from a Liberal Arts Major I believe that if the PowerPole on the K3 was installed on a short length of flexible wire we would not be reading about this problem as it would not exist. That would make a connector change-out very easy should the PowerPole contacts become damaged.. A while back, I had shifted the K3 cabinet while listening to a QSO and the PowerPole disconnected from the lateral movement. It's mostly the lateral tension that creates the propensity for accidental disconnects. If I had moved the cabinet while transmitting at 100W, I suspect that I would need to have gone in and replaced the fused/welded pins. Arguably, K3 owners shouldn't be moving the rig while operating! I have a love-hate relationship with the PowerPole: I love the convenience (e.g., Rigrunner DC manifold); but I hate that the connector does not lock 'n mate as compared to those power connectors manufactured by MOLEX and AMP. Locking the PowerPole requires some external means like a tie-wrap, or the special plastic bridge clip being sold by Anderson. Ensuring a correct crimp is part of the solution, but not the whole solution. I have a shop drawer full of professional ratcheting crimpers and prior to the recent purchase of the West Mountain crimper, I thought I was doing a good job. But what was occurring with my existing crimper is that the contact tip was bending slightly out of alignment during the crimp process. The West Mountain crimper locks the contact tip while crimping, thereby ensuring the pin remains straight with the barrel after crimping. Moreover, the West Mountain crimper ensures a completely concentric crimp. Had I not tried it myself, I would not have believe there could be that much of a difference between it and my other ratcheting crimpers. Paul, W9AC ___ 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] Questions from a Liberal Arts Major
What does being a Liberal Arts Major have to do with ham radio? Are you implying that because you are a Liberal Arts Major, you are somehow less able to understand or comprehend than anyone else? There are many of us with degrees in the arts that are also hams. It's a hobby. You have already proven yourself by acquiring a license. Don't sell yourself short. Sorry if I misinterpreted this but, that's the impression I got after reading the subject line. Gary ___ 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] Polar Bear Moon Light Madness on Nov 15th
Hello, The November SS SSB contest is coming up on Nov.15th and the Polar Bears are making their monthly romp in the woods to operate their radios. If you want to check out if everything is working ok on your station before the SS, try working a few of the Polar Bears out on the trail. You can find the list of the Polar Bear that will be out on the trail at www.n3epa.org . Just click on the Polar Bear QRP Club link and you will find all the Polar Bear names, numbers and QTH. Then click on the 15 November 2008 PBMME link to see who is going to be out on the trail with their QRP radios. 72, Ron Polityka WB3AAL Polar Bear #1 ___ 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: dBV meter
The same could be said for an S-meter reading, no? On Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 12:12 AM, Jan Erik Holm [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: S Sacco wrote: For testing, the K3 has the very excellent feature whereby it can measure the receive voltage. That would be an FB way to compare signals. No it would not.The dBV meter is only useful on a constant and steady carrier. / Jim SM2EKM ___ 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] Mouser part numbers
John, It is not a list of Mouser part numbers, but the parts list in the manuals contains the device designation numbers for all the active devices as well as the Elecraft part numbers. Armed with that information, one can easily use the search line at DigiKey, Mouser, Newark, Allied, etc to find the part numbers used by that supplier. In my experience, Digkey has more items in stock, so I go there first, then fill in anything not in-stock there from Mouser and others. That is really an advantage since the Mouser and Digikey part numbers can change from time to time (as they have with the parts going to RoHS compliant) for the same or equivalent part. The old part numbers may not be available, but by using the device numbers (i.e. LM358), one can order the parts even though if the supplier part numbers change (and you can pick your favorite manufacturer). Homebrewers have been doing this for a long time, and those who have been so 'helpful' as to publish a list of supplier numbers (PC board and kit suppliers) are deluged with questions about substitutes when the supplier changes the part number. It is the device ID number that is important, not any particular supplier's number. 73, Don W3FPR [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I can see that this question has been asked in the past, but appears not to have been answered. Can Elecraft share, assuming it has one, its list of Mouser part numbers for the K2 and its options? I feel that Elecraft must lose money on parts orders which come its way, and I would just as soon order from Mouser where I can add some other things to the order to hopefully make the order profitable for them. John Ferguson AI4TO, M/V Arcadian **Get the Moviefone Toolbar. Showtimes, theaters, movie news more!(http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/10075x1212774565x1200812037/aol?redir=htt p://toolbar.aol.com/moviefone/download.html?ncid=emlcntusdown0001) ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.175 / Virus Database: 270.9.3/1787 - Release Date: 11/14/2008 8:32 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] K3, N1MM and SO2R/SO2V
On Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:12:16 -0800, Greg wrote: As Wayne makes the list of CAT commands grow to be able to make the K3 stand up and do a jig, third party softare designers are able to leverage the new abilities for improved control schemes. Many of these new commands effect how the K3 responds in SO2R/SO2V. One of the most important improvements needed in N1MM (and in WriteLog) is in the sub-program that sends CW and puts it on DTR. As of now, it works fine in both progtrams with one serial port and one radio, but is unstable (and unusable) with two radios and two serial ports. This requires a major rewrite of the CW sending module, so it isn't trivial. Several months ago, I beta tested an attempt at this in N1MM (by N2IC, I think) that worked, sort of (it produced slow, choppy CW with my 1 GHz Thinkpad), but needs a PC of at least 1.5 GHZ to be good. Tom, N1MM, chose not to release it, which was probably a good decision -- IF the work does not stop there. Think about it -- if this could be made to work, you've got a complete SO2R setup for CW with two K3s, a laptop with two serial ports and two serial cables! All you need to add is a headphone system to split between the two radios. 73, Jim K9YC ___ 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 AF Upgrade Kit (for speaker amplifier and LINE OUTs)
This information and a mod manual are now on our K3 Enhancements and Applications note page. See: http://www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_app_notes.htm I apologize for the delay getting this posted! It should have been up earlier. From that page: Line-Out KIO3 R19/R20 Change: About Oct 7, 2008 About S/N 1900 Speaker Amp RFC47 Change: About Sept 25, 2008 About S/N 1830 (Dates and serial numbers are approximate and may vary slightly.) 73, Eric WA6HHQ -- N6WG wrote: I would also like to know that please. 73, Igor UA9CDC Wayne Can you tell us the serial number at which these changes were incorporated? We need to know who needs to order them and who does not. Thanks and 73 Bob N6WG - Original Message - From: wayne burdick [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2008 10:40 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 AF Upgrade Kit (for speaker amplifier and LINE OUTs) With minor circuit changes, both the K3's speaker amplifier and line outputs can provide lower IMD (intermodulation distortion) at higher signal levels. We've been testing these changes for a couple of months, and have already phased them into production. These changes can easily be made to existing K3s. A kit of parts is available (K3AFMDKT). All parts are leaded (not surface mount), and full instructions are provided. See: http://www.elecraft.com/order_form_parts.htm#K3%20Parts Details --- SPEAKER AMP: The mod kit includes a very low-resistance RF choke for use at RFC47 on the RF board. This improves speaker amplifier IMD by as much as 25 dB at moderate to high AF GAIN settings by reducing the voltage drop across RFC47 during signal peaks. LINE OUT: The kit also includes smaller resistor values for R19 and R20 on the KIO3 module. At present R19 and R20 are about 600 ohms, while the replacements drop the resistance to around 50 ohms. The smaller resistors increase the available voltage swing at the output of the LINE OUT transformers, which improves IMD at higher signal levels. These two changes are independent. For example, if you never use LINE OUTs, you might want to do only the speaker amp modification. 73, Wayne N6KR wayne burdick wrote: With minor circuit changes, both the K3's speaker amplifier and line outputs can provide lower IMD (intermodulation distortion) at higher signal levels. We've been testing these changes for a couple of months, and have already phased them into production. These changes can easily be made to existing K3s. A kit of parts is available (K3AFMDKT). All parts are leaded (not surface mount), and full instructions are provided. See: http://www.elecraft.com/order_form_parts.htm#K3%20Parts Details --- SPEAKER AMP: The mod kit includes a very low-resistance RF choke for use at RFC47 on the RF board. This improves speaker amplifier IMD by as much as 25 dB at moderate to high AF GAIN settings by reducing the voltage drop across RFC47 during signal peaks. LINE OUT: The kit also includes smaller resistor values for R19 and R20 on the KIO3 module. At present R19 and R20 are about 600 ohms, while the replacements drop the resistance to around 50 ohms. The smaller resistors increase the available voltage swing at the output of the LINE OUT transformers, which improves IMD at higher signal levels. These two changes are independent. For example, if you never use LINE OUTs, you might want to do only the speaker amp modification. 73, Wayne N6KR --- http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ 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] Questions from a Liberal Arts Major
On Fri, 14 Nov 2008 08:56:31 -0700, Gary D Krause wrote: Are you implying that because you are a Liberal Arts Major, you are somehow less able to understand or comprehend than anyone else? There are many of us with degrees in the arts that are also hams. It's a hobby. You have already proven yourself by acquiring a license. Don't sell yourself short. YES. It's really a matter of putting in the time to STUDY and learn the technical side of the hobby. After all, that's what separates us from the CBers! The ARRL Handbook is carefully written to be accessible to folks without engineering education, but it DOES require study to learn it, just like it took study to get that Liberal Arts degree. I've also done a lot of tutorial writing with a similar focus, sharing what I've learned. As a non-technical elective in my EE program, I took courses in Music Theory, history, and writing. I've used all of them both in my work and for my pleasure. In the 44 years since I finished my BSEE, I've been studying and/or reading something almost every day. Everything from computers to photography to acoustics to radio propagation to economics to personal investing to running a business. That's life, and when we stop learning, it's time for someone to throw dirt on us. 73, Jim Brown K9YC ___ 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] DSP1 firmware download failure
Can someone help me by telling me why when I tried to down load firmware update 2.46/1.92 all gets loaded fine except for the DSP1 which failed to load after two attempts? many tnx in advance 73 de todd WB2ZAB ___ 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 Af Mod kit
In the nov. 14, 2008 enchancements and Application notes applicable to this new kit, it states That The headphone output of the K3, which uses a separate amplifier, already has a very low distortion output and is not impacted by these changes,...Does this mean both the front panel and rear headphone outputs, or does it mean only the front panel output? I use the rear headphone output...I cannot answer this question by looking at the K3 block diagram on page 66 of my k3 manual. Thank you, Steve, W6HPK ___ 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 Af Mod kit
In the nov. 14, 2008 enchancements and Application notes applicable to this new kit, it states That The headphone output of the K3, which uses a separate amplifier, already has a very low distortion output and is not impacted by these changes,...Does this mean both the front panel and rear headphone outputs, Yes, both. 73, Lyle KK7P ___ 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] DSP1 firmware download failure
QST all elecrafters; disregard dire emergency request for help. Closed and reopened firmware utility and reloaded DSP firmware. rcvd QSL 73 de todd WB2ZAB ___ 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] Mouser part numbers
At 02:22 PM 11/14/2008, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote... I can see that this question has been asked in the past, but appears not to have been answered. Can Elecraft share, assuming it has one, its list of Mouser part numbers for the K2 and its options? Here's a few electromechanical parts: Latching relays - Omron G6HU-2 5 volt Potentiometers, 9mm snap in - Alpha 9mm (mouser 317-2080-5K, 317-2090-5K) Switches - E-switch TL1100F160Q, caps type SJ (Digikey) Power plug - 2.1 x 5.5mm, Switchcraft S760 Headphone jack - Kobiconn 161-3503-EX ___ 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] 2nd RX is deaf
I have a few questions to people who have the 2nd RX option fitted. My 2nd RX seems to be deaf, the difference between the two S meters is if the main RX is showing S9, the second will show S1-2. I installed my 2nd RX about 3 weeks ago and due being busy I have not played around with it until today. I have set everything up in the manual as prescribed, all filter settings are the same as in 1st RX as I have mirrored the filtering. The difference in the volume looking at the volume knobs is about 90 degrees, the 2nd RX volume knob being the one which is turned louder. I can't think of anything off the top of my head which I have missed or which is obvious and I'm looking to you guys if you had a similar problem. I use ANT 1 socket for the main RX and ANT 2 socket for the 2nd RX. I can share ANT 1 with 2nd RX. Using the sharing scheme the signals are significantly different as described S9 S1-2. I have also swapped the antennas around and there has been no difference which eliminates the antenna switching unit. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Berni G0IDA -- ___ 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 and PW-1
This weekend I hope to hook up my PW-1 now that its back from Icom again. Is there any real need to use a keying buffer between the two ? Based on the specs of the two units I would think a direct connection between the two would work fine. K4GM- George ___ 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 S-meters, db and noise
I can't take it anymore, I'm putting a strip of electrical tape over the upper left patch of the LCD. I can no longer bear to look. Everyone gets S9! -jeff ___ 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 and PW-1
Hi George, You should not need a keying buffer, as the PW1 keying line is low-level. The negative-going ALC fix must be installed in your K3, and the ALC adjusted to level the PW1 output at 1 kW per the PW1 user manual. Do not attempt to operate the PW1 without ALC, as otherwise severe damage to the PW1 could result. Cheers for now, 73, Adam VA7OJ/AB4OJ ___ 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] signal strength
Brian Lloyd-6 wrote: But that is the beauty of software: you don't need to change the hardware to add the feature. You don't even need to change the firmware. Just try a new program. Folks who want to do comparative antenna tests should try WSPR by K1JT. It's a beacon software that also measures the SNR of other beacons received and reports them to a website (wsprnet.org.) Use it for a couple of hours and then go to the website and you'll have a bunch of reception reports from stations all over the world, with 1dB resolution, to compare with other antennas or the reports given to other stations in your locality. Much more useful than asking a QSO partner for an S meter reading if you ask me. - Julian, G4ILO. K2 #392 K3 #222. http://www.g4ilo.com/ G4ILO's Shack http://www.ham-directory.com/ Ham Directoryhttp://www.g4ilo.com/kcomm.html KComm for Elecraft K2 and K3 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/signal-strength-tp1499569p1500796.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.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] KRX3 Antenna Flexibility
Reposting this since the Elecraft list on qth.net was down earlier: Bill W4ZV wrote: I believe many are now receiving their KRX3s and are about to discover the amazing benefits of True Diversity with the K3. As some of you know, I love to chase DX on 160 and will only say Diversity is something I will never be without. I typically use a directional 3-el vertical array on transmit and a Beverage in the same direction on receive. In Diversity mode, I use my TX antenna on Main and the Beverage on Sub. Sometimes it's absolutely amazing to hear signals switching back and forth between ears in 1 second! I'm sure these signals would exhibit extreme QSB if listening on one antenna by itself. Although the K3 has an effective switching system for most use, there's one situation which I've run across which needs an external solution. This is the (somewhat unusual) case when a signal will be present on only one of the antennas being used in Diversity. I found I wanted a quick way to switch out of Diversity, so that either the TX or RX antenna alone would be applied to both ears. Otherwise I'm feeding extraneous noise with no signal to one of my ears. A simple solution to this is to use an external splitter for the Beverage input. This should be a Magic-T splitter (not just a T-connector) which preserves impedance and isolation between the two receiver channels. You can either build one yourself (using two ferrite cores and a resistor) or buy a commercial unit (Mini-Circuits ZSC-2-2 or DXE RSC-2 are both ~$50). The Mini-Circuits unit is available in either 50-50 ohm or 75-75 ohm versions and the DXE is 75-75 only. If you make it yourself, you can make one which will match a 75 ohm antenna to the 50 ohm RX inputs of the K3. See W8JI's website for details to roll your own: http://www.w8ji.com/combiner_and_splitters.htm So how does this work? I feed my Beverage to the splitter and then connect its two outputs to RX ANT and AUX RF. When I want Diversity, I use my TX antenna (ANT1) on Main and the Beverage on AUX RF (the KRX3 allows you to choose either the same antenna as Main or AUX RF). Here are the two cases to switch from Diversity to either the TX array or RX antenna using a splitter. 1. When I want my Beverage on both ears, I simply tap RX ANT. To go back to Diversity Mode, I tap RX ANT again. 2. When I want my TX array on both ears, I hold RX ANT which switches the KRX3 to the same antenna as Main. When I want to return to Diversity, I hold RX ANT again. One tap or hold and you instantly can go out of (or back into) Diversity with either your TX or RX antenna in those rare cases when a weak signal may be on only one antenna. There's of course a ~3 dB loss when you use a splitter, but this isn't significant on the low bands since the external noise floor is so far above the noise floor of the K3 (...even if ATT is on). True Diversity in the K3 is a remarkable achievement compared to other rigs costing much more (neither the IC-7800 or Orion has True Diversity). In my configuration, I have it in a rig which cost me ~$2.8k including 6 filters (2 of which are unnecessary for non-contesters, i.e. a 1.8k and 200). If you want to hear some recordings using Diversity, listen to EI6IZ's CW and SSB pileups here: http://ei6iz.com/ (Audio links at the bottom of his KRX3 article, and you really need stereo headphones for the full effect. BTW, I never use anything but headphones for DXing or contesting.) 73, Bill W4ZV -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/-K3--KRX3-Antenna-Flexibility-tp1499595p1500426.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.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 AF Upgrade Kit (for speaker amplifier and LINE OUTs)
Hi, I am a little confused as to exactly what is affected by the choke mod (the document only mentions speakers): Internal speaker? External speakers? Front panel headphones? Rear panel headphones? I am asking because I use headphones 99% of the time (currently front connected, but I am considering a move to the back) and because the russian testers explicitly said they were using the front headphone outputs. Knut - AB2TC Val-12 wrote: wayne burdick wrote: SPEAKER AMP: The mod kit includes a very low-resistance RF choke for use at RFC47 73, Wayne N6KR What is the value? / SM2EKM Could this be homebrewed? Core, turns, wire? / LZ1VB ___ 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 - AB2TC - Knut -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-AF-Upgrade-Kit-%28for-speaker-amplifier-and-LINE-OUTs%29-tp1495036p1500368.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.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 panadapter choices
Hi Dave, The Perseus certainly seems impressive. As a second receiver it would cost only $151 more than the KRX3, if the latter is stuffed with all the filters I have now added to my K3. I will be very interested in your experience with it in the CQ WW CW. Please report the average and peak number of strength of the strongest signals at your location, across the whole HF spectrum, if that is practical. When you say click and go I assume the Perseus software is tuning the K3. Are you saying that *no* adjustment is needed to get the right pitch for SSB or CW? I have the kits for SoftRock Lite and the isolation amplifier sitting here, just waiting to be put together, so I will definitely give that a go first. I too don't much like the idea of getting an outboard soundcard, so if the soundcard is the weakest link (in desktop and/or laptop) I don't know if I will take that step or go to something not requiring a soundcard. There is no doubt that a receiver for the full HF range is worth more than just a panadapter. One slight count against the Perseus might be that it requires a power connection. Is it tolerant enough as to voltages to be run from either the typical home station 13.8V supply, or a car battery being discharged to 11 V or so? 73, Erik K7TV - Original Message - From: G4AON (via Nabble) To: K7TV Sent: Friday, November 14, 2008 11:07 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 panadapter choices Erik (and Julian) I'm posting only on Nabble as the Mailman Reflector seems to be broken at my end today... I was looking for a low cost panadapter for my K3 and kept finding issues, there was the IF leakage/spurious injection issue, low sensitivity when using the K3 IF out, my soundcard isn't good enough so I might need an outboard soundcard, will 192 KHz span be enough? And so I kept having doubts. A friend recently bought a Perseus that he found outperformed his TS480. The Perseus at that time covered an 800 KHz span and was a direct connection to USB2 and was available for next day delivery from a UK source... Span is now up to 1600 KHz. Having a high specification panoramic receiver has been an eye opener for me, maybe next weekend the CQ WW CW contest will cause the Perseus to struggle compared to the K3 but we will see, it's certainly holding it's own so far. The screen resolution is good enough to click and go on pretty much all CW and SSB signals at 100 KHz resolution without needing fine tuning, wider spans usually need a tweak but this could easily improve if/when the screen display is increased in size from it's present 1024 pixels wide. I don't connect my Perseus to the K3 IF, it connects in parallel via a ferrite splitter using the RX RF IN/OUT sockets on the KXV3. For my money the Perseus makes a good 2nd receiver, certainly it compares favourably on cost against the K3 second receiver (with a 2.8 KHz and 400 Hz filter installed) when you include shipping and tax. I haven't used any of the low cost alternatives, but the Perseus certainly impresses me. 73 Dave, G4AON K3/100 #80 -- K7TV wrote: Researching my options for a K3 panadapter (Softrock, LP-PAN, SDR-IQ, Perseus, Mercury...) I want to thank Paul W9AC for sharing his experience with the SDR-IQ on the list: When observing signal strength on the display, there's ample resolution for signal comparisons. SDR-IQ is powered from the PC's USB port, so only two connections are made (I.F. and USB). SpectraVue supports the K3 and using the point 'n click feature has been great. Click on the display and the K3 instantly moves to that frequency. The only shortcoming I've found is that SpectraVue needs to poll the K3's mode offset data so that changing modes does not require an offset change in SpectraVue. Not sure if that's handled automatically when using LP-PAN and PowerSDR. I would be very interested to read similar detail about the other possible hardware and software choices. An overview table showing which spectrum analysis software packages work with which hardware choices would be very helpful. As long as a the hardware is used for spectrum display (not as a receiver to be listened to) it seems to me that hardware in the low to middle price range is good enough. The issue then is the software choice first and then finding hardware compatible with the software. When choosing software I would really like to know if there is any package available today that already adjusts for the mode offset, or is planned to do so in the near future. A wide and narrow spectrum display window may also be a positive feature in comparing one software package to another, especially if one is going to run other software at the same time. If one contemplates actually listening to the outboard SDR, it seems that more money does buy better performance, although probably none
[Elecraft] [K3] KRX3 Antenna Flexibility
I believe many are now receiving their KRX3s and are about to discover the amazing benefits of True Diversity with the K3. As some of you know, I love to chase DX on 160 and will only say Diversity is something I will never be without. I typically use a directional 3-el vertical array on transmit and a Beverage in the same direction on receive. In Diversity mode, I use my TX antenna on Main and the Beverage on Sub. Sometimes it's absolutely amazing to hear signals switching back and forth between ears in 1 second! I'm sure these signals would exhibit extreme QSB if listening on one antenna by itself. Although the K3 has an effective switching system for most use, there's one situation which I've run across which needs an external solution. This is the (somewhat unusual) case when a signal will be present on only one of the antennas being used in Diversity. I found I wanted a quick way to switch out of Diversity, so that either the TX or RX antenna alone would be applied to both ears. Otherwise I'm feeding extraneous noise with no signal to one of my ears. A simple solution to this is to use an external splitter for the Beverage input. This should be a Magic-T splitter (not just a T-connector) which preserves impedance and isolation between the two receiver channels. You can either build one yourself (using two ferrite cores and a resistor) or buy a commercial unit (Mini-Circuits ZSC-2-2 or DXE RSC-2 are both ~$50). The Mini-Circuits unit is available in either 50-50 ohm or 75-75 ohm versions and the DXE is 75-75 only. If you make it yourself, you can make one which will match a 75 ohm antenna to the 50 ohm RX inputs of the K3. See W8JI's website for details to roll your own: http://www.w8ji.com/combiner_and_splitters.htm So how does this work? I feed my Beverage to the splitter and then connect its two outputs to RX ANT and AUX RF. When I want Diversity, I use my TX antenna (ANT1) on Main and the Beverage on AUX RF (the KRX3 allows you to choose either the same antenna as Main or AUX RF). Here are the two cases to switch from Diversity to either the TX array or RX antenna using a splitter. 1. When I want my Beverage on both ears, I simply tap RX ANT. To go back to Diversity Mode, I tap RX ANT again. 2. When I want my TX array on both ears, I hold RX ANT which switches the KRX3 to the same antenna as Main. When I want to return to Diversity, I hold RX ANT again. One tap or hold and you instantly can go out of (or back into) Diversity with either your TX or RX antenna in those rare cases when a weak signal may be on only one antenna. There's of course a ~3 dB loss when you use a splitter, but this isn't significant on the low bands since the external noise floor is so far above the noise floor of the K3 (...even if ATT is on). True Diversity in the K3 is a remarkable achievement compared to other rigs costing much more (neither the IC-7800 or Orion has True Diversity). In my configuration, I have it in a rig which cost me ~$2.8k including 6 filters (2 of which are unnecessary for non-contesters, i.e. a 1.8k and 200). If you want to hear some recordings using Diversity, listen to EI6IZ's CW and SSB pileups here: http://ei6iz.com/ (Audio links at the bottom of his KRX3 article, and you really need stereo headphones for the full effect. BTW, I never use anything but headphones for DXing or contesting.) 73, Bill W4ZV -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/-K3--KRX3-Antenna-Flexibility-tp1499595p1499595.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.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 panadapter choices
K7TV wrote: Researching my options for a K3 panadapter (Softrock, LP-PAN, SDR-IQ, Perseus, Mercury...) I want to thank Paul W9AC for sharing his experience with the SDR-IQ on the list: ... I would be very interested to read similar detail about the other possible hardware and software choices. An overview table showing which spectrum analysis software packages work with which hardware choices would be very helpful. I agree. I also wonder why a device that is basically only needed to display a wiggly line showing band activity needs to cost as much as a budget transceiver. An SDR is basically not a lot different from a direct conversion receiver which QRPers habitually knock up in an hour or two using parts from their junk box. The computer sound card and software does most of the work. And for K3 panadapter use you don't even need a tunable oscillator. I would be interested in ideas in which ingenuity rather than wads of cash are used to meet the requirement. The idea for a simple SDR by EA3GHS described here http://ea3ghs.googlepages.com/VERY-SIMPLE-SOFTWARE-DEFINED-DSB-RAD.doc looks like a possible answer, though I'm not knowledgeable enough to adapt it to this purpose. The author suggests it is a bit lacking in sensitivity and that the oscillator signal could be radiated, both of which would presumably solved by adding an amplifier stage to the input. - Julian, G4ILO. K2 #392 K3 #222. http://www.g4ilo.com/ G4ILO's Shack http://www.ham-directory.com/ Ham Directoryhttp://www.g4ilo.com/kcomm.html KComm for Elecraft K2 and K3 -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/K3-panadapter-choices-tp1495993p1498447.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.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] Questions from a Liberal Arts Major
On Nov 14, 2008, at 10:06 AM, Joe Spencer wrote: I have several Crimper tools but do not really trust crimped power connectors so...I solder all my PowerPoles connectors. It is easy to do...they work everytime and never a crimp problem. Crimp-only connections last longer than do crimp-and-solder connections and are just as low resistance. When you solder the crimped connection the solder wicks up the wire and creates fatigue point where the wire will fail first. Of course, that does presume you have the correct crimp tool and you are using the proper terminal for the size of wire. (This information comes from having wired aircraft.) Brian Lloyd Granite Bay Montessori School 9330 Sierra College Bl brian AT gbmontessori DOT com Roseville, CA 95661 +1.916.367.2131 (voice)+1.791.912.8170 (fax) PGP key ID: 12095C52A32A1B6C PGP key fingerprint: 3B1D BA11 4913 3254 B6E0 CC09 1209 5C52 A32A 1B6C ___ 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 AF Upgrade Kit (for speaker amplifier and LINE OUTs)
I am a little confused as to exactly what is affected by the choke mod (the document only mentions speakers): The document is accurate. It means the speaker amplifier, which is used to drive the internal speaker and the external speaker jack. Not the headphones or LINE OUT, just the speakers. There is a separate stereo amplifier which drives the headphones. Front and rear headphone jacks are driven from the same headphone amplifier. These jacks are driven only by this amplifier. There is a separate path not using the speaker amplifier or headphone amplifier that drives the LINE OUT, and only the LINE OUT. 73, Lyle KK7P ___ 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 panadapter choices
Eric, The expensive soundcard is not required to use the K3 IF output effectively. Yes, the better soundcards will allow you to display 192 kHz of the band centered on the K3 frequency, but how often is that needed? If you can answer rarely or never, then you can use one of the lesser capability soundcards to display 80 kHz or so. The Soundblaster Live card is still available at a reasonable price and has a 24 bit ADC with a reasonable noise floor, so the dynamic range should be adequate. The real answer depends on your wants and needs - if you want to display the maximum slice of the spectrum, then go with the best available, but if your budget must be minded, then there are other alternatives. Actually, any soundcard will work - the question is just how much dynamic range will you have and how wide a swath of the spectrum will you be able to display. You may want to look at the Softrock reflector (a Yahoo group) for additional information - but there are a lot of advocates there who strive for the best of the best. 73, Don W3FPR K7TV wrote: I have the kits for SoftRock Lite and the isolation amplifier sitting here, just waiting to be put together, so I will definitely give that a go first. I too don't much like the idea of getting an outboard soundcard, so if the soundcard is the weakest link (in desktop and/or laptop) I don't know if I will take that step or go to something not requiring a soundcard. There is no doubt that a receiver for the full HF range is worth more than just a panadapter. One slight count against the Perseus might be that it requires a power connection. Is it tolerant enough as to voltages to be run from either the typical home station 13.8V supply, or a car battery being discharged to 11 V or so? 73, Erik K7TV ___ 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] Questions from a Liberal Arts Major
Brian, What you say is true, a soldered connection used in a high vibration application will fail at the point where the solder has wicked up into the (stranded) wire. This is an important consideration in aircraft and other mobile applications. In ham home station applications where the wire is not subjected to severe vibration, a soldered connection is often more reliable than a crimped connection. That is especially true if the crimping tool is not exactly the proper type for the connector in use. A good crimping tool is a rather expensive tool - it must be matched to the connector and the wire to be crimped. Inexpensive substitutes may work for a while, but will result in a connection that is more unreliable than a soldered connection. The *real* answer is it all depends 73, Don W3FPR Brian Lloyd wrote: On Nov 14, 2008, at 10:06 AM, Joe Spencer wrote: I have several Crimper tools but do not really trust crimped power connectors so...I solder all my PowerPoles connectors. It is easy to do...they work everytime and never a crimp problem. Crimp-only connections last longer than do crimp-and-solder connections and are just as low resistance. When you solder the crimped connection the solder wicks up the wire and creates fatigue point where the wire will fail first. Of course, that does presume you have the correct crimp tool and you are using the proper terminal for the size of wire. (This information comes from having wired aircraft.) Brian Lloyd Granite Bay Montessori School 9330 Sierra College Bl brian AT gbmontessori DOT com Roseville, CA 95661 +1.916.367.2131 (voice)+1.791.912.8170 (fax) PGP key ID: 12095C52A32A1B6C PGP key fingerprint: 3B1D BA11 4913 3254 B6E0 CC09 1209 5C52 A32A 1B6C ___ 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 S-meters, db and noise
I have to agree. I understand everyone uses the radio in their own way. But I have been a bit dumbfounded by the fascination with the S-meter. I do not see where any S-meter readings are mentioned below... R = READABILITY 1 -- Unreadable 2 -- Barely readable, occasional words distinguishable 3 -- Readable with considerable difficulty 4 -- Readable with practically no difficulty 5 -- Perfectly readable S = SIGNAL STRENGTH 1 -- Faint signals, barely perceptible 2 -- Very weak signals 3 -- Weak signals 4 -- Fair signals 5 -- Fairly good signals 6 -- Good signals 7 -- Moderately strong signals 8 -- Strong signals 9 -- Extremely strong signals T = TONE 1 -- Sixty cycle a.c. or less, very rough and broad 2 -- Very rough a.c. , very harsh and broad 3 -- Rough a.c. tone, rectified but not filtered 4 -- Rough note, some trace of filtering 5 -- Filtered rectified a.c. but strongly ripple-modulated 6 -- Filtered tone, definite trace of ripple modulation 7 -- Near pure tone, trace of ripple modulation 8 -- Near perfect tone, slight trace of modulation 9 -- Perfect tone, no trace of ripple or modulation of any kind David Wilburn NM4M http://www.nm4m.com Jeff Wandling W7BRS wrote: I can't take it anymore, I'm putting a strip of electrical tape over the upper left patch of the LCD. I can no longer bear to look. Everyone gets S9! -jeff ___ 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 and PW-1
K4GM-George wrote: This weekend I hope to hook up my PW-1 now that its back from Icom again. Is there any real need to use a keying buffer between the two ? Based on the specs of the two units I would think a direct connection between the two would work fine. Direct connection is fine - no need for a buffer. That's how I have had my K3 and PW1 connected for the past 10 months. Gus Hansen KB0YH ___ 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 and PW-1
Hello George, I don't think a key buffer is necessary. 73 Johnny VR2XMC --- 2008年11月15日 星期六，K4GM-George [EMAIL PROTECTED] 寫道﹕ 寄件人: K4GM-George [EMAIL PROTECTED] 主題: [Elecraft] K3 and PW-1 收件人: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 日期: 2008 11 15 星期六 上午 2:32 This weekend I hope to hook up my PW-1 now that its back from Icom again. Is there any real need to use a keying buffer between the two ? Based on the specs of the two units I would think a direct connection between the two would work fine. K4GM- George ___ 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 為了不斷提升Yahoo! Mail，雅虎香港誠邀你參與意見調查。請前往http://surveylink.yahoo.com/wix/p5429076.aspx 發表你的意見! ___ 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
