[Elecraft] KX3 in WAE RTTY
I used my new KX3 (SN 2282) in the recent WAE RTTY test as part of an SO3R setup with 2 K3s, and wanted to record my impressions. The KX3 at 5W was driving an amp to 100 watts, and contributed 298 q's to my total. The KX3 had the per band sideband nulling and the roofing filter. I took the headphone output and ran it through transformers, one channel directly to the computer sound card, and the other through a separate audio amp, to my headphones. This way, the decoder audio could be at a fixed level but still allow me to use the external amp to adjust the headphone level. The KX3 was set for AFSK A and of course I used AFSK from the sound card, which was also transformer isolated, and run to the MIC input. RX I/Q was run into another sound card to provide a spectral display using CW Skimmer (yes I know it doesn't decode RTTY, but I just like the way it looks). AFSK A uses a center frequency of 1Khz, which is good since I used high tones on the other two rigs, and it helps me to discriminate between what's going on between the rigs. Now AFSK A purports to use LSB, but is actually inverted, so I had to use the REV setting on MMTTY to get things to work. (this is on the list at Elecraft). It also meant manual fine tuning by ear or scope was reversed. Also AFSK A only allows the twin peaking filter, which I found I really don't like in a contest. Band noise is peaked up at the tone frequencies and I found that that made it harder to tell when a weak station was calling on a noisy band. I used MMTTY in non AFC mode, and found that the tuning was more touchy. 2-Tone, running in it's native AFC and AGC mode was better at decoding. Also in AFSK mode, it's necessary to set an offset in the N1MM logging software to get the frequency to net up with FSK packet spots. As others have noted, having a band scope is a great thing, and with the KX3 is pretty easy to implement. However, I found that with all the extra stuff in the shack going, the 'zero freq' portion of the display got what seemed to be progressively noisier. I did have transformer isolation on the I/Q output but more attention is needed. I also saw that on 40M, where my antenna is uncomfortably close to the house, that there was noise induced on the I/Q output. I don't think this was radiated on the transmitter, but will need to investigate more. I did not use the 8Khz offset in the KX3 to move the noise from 0 since I wanted the roofing filter action for the contest congestion. Also the image rejection of CW Skimmer degraded significantly during the contest. I think this was because I left the it in learn mode, and it was learning from the transmit signal sent out over the RX I/Q as well as very strong local signals (including my own 40M harmonic as heard on 20M). Turning off learning mode would help this I'm sure. I had a fan blowing on the back of the kx3, and PA temperature rise was minimal, toping out in the mid 40's, even with the extended duty cycle of exchanging QTCs. As others have noted, the KX3 should be mounted securely or it wants to wander off when pressing buttons. So how's it compare to a K3? I/O is limited (no separate fixed audio out, FSK in, or band outputs) RIT is harder to use (and reset) And if the rig isn't mounted well, it moves when you hit the buttons. Fewer options for center frequency setting In AFSK A, only twin peaking filter available No FSK transmit No fixed audio output No band dependent power out setting (my amp was pretty flat so not an issue for me) I don’t think I missed any contacts due to using the KX3 vs. a K3. The limiting factor on receive was more the clicks and splatter from other stations rather than any receiver performance. I do think the K3 is better, but not by leaps and bounds. Hi SIG detect seems to be more sensitive to an on frequency signal, rather than the K3 responding to on/off frequency signals equally. Wishes Add FSK transmit (Elecraft says the I/O is wrong to allow this) Allow other rx filtering selections Fix the sideband selection in AFSK A Mute the RX I/Q output on TX SO not bad for a 2 pound trail ready radio! Mark n2qt/we4m __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] 160 80m
I would be curious what the signal to noise ratio and readability is of the signals, forget what the meter tells you. Does the meter show that a signal goes to 7 S-units? Take the meter out of the equation and listen to the signals. Try to find a signal that is barely readable on one rig or the other and see how they compare. I have not done the above experiment with my KX3 yet but I had a buddy's KX1 here a while back and I did that very experiment. Not only did I find that I could hear better on the KX1, I found that signals that the KX1 could hear my TS-2000 was no where close to hearing. My thinking is that the noise floor was that much lower on the KX1 and it had better selectivity than my TS-2000 does (quad-conversion vs. essentially direct conversion). Again, take the meter out of the equation and go off the readability of the signals. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/160-80m-tp7565461p7565501.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Change to KX3 RF board at #2500?
I've heard there are changes to the KX3 RF board beginning with serial number 2500. Could Elecraft please detail the changes so they can be recognised? I am about to build a KX3 with a serial number just above that figure and I'd like to be assured it's fitted with the new RF board. Could I also ask why the re-design has been undertaken, please, and is it planned to have an exchange system like the DSP board upgrade for the K3? Thanks and 73. Dave, G3TJP __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] 160 80m
QST review reported lower numbers on the lower bands, and the yahoo KX3 group contains mods for 80 and 160m. It seems that the mods are for HPF filters so it is possible that the current components cause an attenuation. Usually sensitivity on 160m is not a problem unless one uses a receive antenna. Ignacy, NO9E -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/160-80m-tp7565461p7565503.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 overcurrent/over temp shut down?
How is PA overtemp/current displayed on the K3? During the WAE rtty contest at least twice I noticed that the rig was in TX, but there was no power output. I did not see any warning message on the rig's display. Next time called upon transmit was fine. However, later on I did get an unsolicited shut down on the same rig. PA temperatures did make it into the low 50's sending QTCs. When a fault occurs, to the point of shutting off output power, is the fault display fleeting enough that I could have missed it? (I was running SO2R and not watching the affected radio). Mark n2qt/we4m __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] 160 80m
Is it my imagination or is the KX3 a tad insensitive on 160 80m? Signals that are 59+ on other rigs are barely hitting a S7!! Any ideas? GW4DVB -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/160-80m-tp7565461.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] kat500
Recieved my Kat500 today. Must have a senior moment. Have it setup with my K-Line. Also the extra cable . Utility shows band switching ETC. But can't get it to tune. It has to a setting or cable that I am looking at. When turning on the Kat500 will it show on the K3 that its on, like when turning on the KPA500? Don...w2xb -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/kat500-tp7565384.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] P3 Left Edge Function
Great Idea. It would eliminate an awful lot of knob turning and button pushing. Ed Kuebert, K5EK k...@arrl.net __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Waiting for FW Load
Gary, I don't have that version. Please forward to me and I will give it a try. 73, Bill K9YEQ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Gary Gregory Sent: Friday, November 09, 2012 9:15 PM To: Elecraft Subject: [Elecraft] K3 Waiting for FW Load Anoyone else seeing the K3 Utility showing the K3 is waiting for a FW Load when the Utility is first booted up? Current FW is 4.58 and the K3 appears to functioning normally. Gary -- *Gary* *Start the day off slow, then taper off.* K3 #679 KX3 #2122 KPA500FT #18 KAT500FT 007 P3 #1629 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Manual Pics and text discrepancy
While reading the K3 build manual last night I noticed that on page 48, Fig.70 the text again emphatically warns to use a split washer under the hold down screw while the picture shows an inside tooth washer under the screw. I thought I'd bring this up as some people are very visually oriented and may use the wrong washer. I have assumed that the text is correct as in many other places in the manual a split washer is used for this type mounting. I could be wrong so maybe an expert will clear things up?? P.J. N7PXY __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] kat500
On Fri, Nov 9, 2012 at 6:22 PM, W2XB haircut...@verizon.net wrote: Recieved my Kat500 today. Must have a senior moment. Have it setup with my K-Line. Also the extra cable . Utility shows band switching ETC. But can't get it to tune. It has to a setting or cable that I am looking at. When turning on the Kat500 will it show on the K3 that its on, like when turning on the KPA500? No .. at least not yet (maybe in future firmware) What happens when you try to tune? You may want to enter EEINIT; on the Command Tester tab of the utility, to start with a clean slate 73, ~iain / N6ML __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] 160 80m
Should be very similar on all bands. But if it would be lower if you had MENU:PREAMP set to 10 dB on a particular band. The default is 20 dB, which results in S9 = 50 microvolts (approx.). 73, Wayne N6KR On Nov 11, 2012, at 6:12 AM, GW4DVB wrote: Is it my imagination or is the KX3 a tad insensitive on 160 80m? Signals that are 59+ on other rigs are barely hitting a S7!! Any ideas? GW4DVB -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/160-80m-tp7565461.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Updated Info on the New Argonaut VI
Hi All, This info (see link below) was just passed on to me via GQRP-L. http://g3xbm-qrp.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/the-argonaut-vi-is-coming-soon.html There are still a lot of missing details, but it's hard for me to see how this rig competes effectively with the KX3. Dave W7AQK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Manual Pics and text discrepancy
On Mon Nov 12 13:33:28 EST 2012, PJ wrote ... I noticed that on page 48, Fig.70 the text again emphatically warns to use a split washer under the hold down screw while the picture shows an inside tooth washer under the screw I have assumed that the text is correct as in many other places in the manual a split washer is used for this type mounting. I could be wrong ... PJ, Actually the text does not say that. Rather, it states Be certain you use a split lock washer between the KREF3 board and the PEM nut attached to the shield. Further, the drawing and accompanying detail text show and describe that the lock washer under the screw head should be of the inside tooth variety. 73, Gary KI4GGX K3/100 #2724 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KPA 100 use as standalone PA; emulation of K2 with an interface; analyzation of aux bus protocol
Hi Don, Many thanks for your answer and your ideas! Yes, i agree, this task would make same work ... therefore i asked :-) I don't want to modifiy my KPA100 (in EC2 enclosure), still want to use it with my K2. To use KPA100 with an other rig I would like to fully control it over the AUXBUS (and VRFDET signal for ALC), with an external uController. To do this, one must find out how K2 and KPA100 communicate. I hoped, that someone analyzed this communication protocol already...I would have to do this with a scope - a bit toilsome... tnx es 73, paul hb9axl Am 11.11.2012 23:06, schrieb Don Wilhelm: Paul, I did not see a response to your question, but I believe the answer is NO. I would suggest that would be a difficult task. Could the KPA100 be converted to a standalone amplifier, I think the answer is YES, but it would require a substantial amount of work. The bandswitching *could* be accomplished by a multiposition manual switch or an add-on frequency sensing device, and if the driving transceiver can communicate the Transmit or Receive status, you *could* make the T/R switch function properly. Other functions depend on the K2 firmware functions, such as the PA temperature which would in turn control the fan speed. All in all, I do not think the benefit derived would be worth the cost and effort. If one has a KPA100 that could be used for the butchering job, that is one thing, but if contemplating buying a KPA100 kit and building it as a standalone amplifier seems to be more expensive than purchasing one of the amplifiers in the 100 watt (or greater) class. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/9/2012 2:57 PM, paul hippenmeyer wrote: Hi all did anybody analyzed the aux bus protocol and built an interface, which emulates the K2? 73, paul hb9axl __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Manual Pics and text discrepancy
I am wrong. It was pointed out to me that I had misread the page and after reading it yet again I find that I have got it wrong. Sorry, guys... carry on. PJ, N7PXy - Original Message - While reading the K3 build manual last night I noticed that on page 48, Fig.70 the text again emphatically warns to use a split washer under the hold down screw while the picture shows an inside tooth washer under the screw. I thought I'd bring this up as some people are very visually oriented and may use the wrong washer. I have assumed that the text is correct as in many other places in the manual a split washer is used for this type mounting. I could be wrong so maybe an expert will clear things up?? P.J. N7PXY __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KAT500 firmware version 1.14 and KAT500 Utility 1.12.11.9 avialable
The KAT500 Software Page has been updated with latest KAT500 Utility version 1.12.11.9. The primary changes are on the Configuration tab. http://www.elecraft.com/KAT500/kat500_software.htm (You may need to refresh your browser to see the updated page and FTP directories) KAT500 firmware has been updated to version 1.14. Consult the Release Notes file from KAT500 Utility Help for a description of the changes. 73 de Dick, K6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KAT500 firmware version 1.14 and KAT500 Utility 1.12.11.9 available
The KAT500 Software Page has been updated with latest KAT500 Utility version 1.12.11.9. The primary changes are on the Configuration tab. http://www.elecraft.com/KAT500/kat500_software.htm (You may need to refresh your browser to see the updated page and FTP directories) KAT500 firmware has been updated to version 1.14. Consult the Release Notes file from KAT500 Utility Help for a description of the changes. 73 de Dick, K6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 TUNE function
Given that the transmitter gain calibration involves holding TUNE at 5w and 50w on each band (either manually or via the utility), why does holding TUNE at any other power level on any band not upset the tx gain calibration for that band? Or does it? 73 to all Geoff G3UCK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Waiting for FW Load
Gary == Gary Gregory garyvk...@gmail.com writes: Gary Anoyone else seeing the K3 Utility showing the K3 is waiting for a FW Load Gary when the Utility is first booted up? Gary Current FW is 4.58 and the K3 appears to functioning normally. Not seeing this with MCU 4.58, utility = 1.12.9.22 (linux) Are the other modules loaded correctly? FPF = 1.15, DSP = 2.80 -- Pierfrancesco Caci, ik5pvx __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 clicks in Headphones at the end of dit and dah
Hello, I'm doing my first steps with my KX3 S/N 2294 ... I noticed a click at the end of each given dit and dah in my headphones. With NR it disappears mostly. With ATTN it disappears completely and with ATTN off and PRE on it's much louder. I tested a KOSS Porta Pro and a Sennheiser HD 485. It's not only with the KXPD3. With an external key the clicks are there, too. It's not depending on the settings of the AGC THR or DLY. Any hints? regards Holger __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TUNE function
On Mon, Nov 12, 2012 at 1:37 PM, Geoffrey Downs geoffre...@madasafish.com wrote: Given that the transmitter gain calibration involves holding TUNE at 5w and 50w on each band (either manually or via the utility), why does holding TUNE at any other power level on any band not upset the tx gain calibration for that band? Or does it? Good question... Since the procedure requires power to be set to exactly 5.0W, it suggests that there's some special logic in the firmware that cause the calibration routine to kick in when TUNE is invoked with that setting. That seems to imply that one should not invoke the TUNE function at that power level under other circumstances, as an imperfect load could result in decalibration 73, ~iain / N6ML __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TUNE function
From the manual: Most calibration procedures use Tech-Mode menu entries. To enable these, set CONFIG:TECH MD to ON. Set TECH MD to OFF afterward. So if Tech mode is off I don't think the Tune button should not have any effect on the Calibration. On 11/12/2012 15:46 PM, iain macdonnell - N6ML wrote: On Mon, Nov 12, 2012 at 1:37 PM, Geoffrey Downs geoffre...@madasafish.com wrote: Given that the transmitter gain calibration involves holding TUNE at 5w and 50w on each band (either manually or via the utility), why does holding TUNE at any other power level on any band not upset the tx gain calibration for that band? Or does it? Good question... Since the procedure requires power to be set to exactly 5.0W, it suggests that there's some special logic in the firmware that cause the calibration routine to kick in when TUNE is invoked with that setting. That seems to imply that one should not invoke the TUNE function at that power level under other circumstances, as an imperfect load could result in decalibration 73, ~iain / N6ML __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TUNE function
Hmm, I'm not sure that's a reasonable assumption - the manual is telling you that there are some menu items that you'll need for some calibration procedures that are only accessible in tech mode, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the calibration logic is linked to tech mode - it may be; I just would make the assumption.. 73, ~iain / N6ML On Mon, Nov 12, 2012 at 2:18 PM, Gary Mohrlant w0...@arrl.net wrote: From the manual: Most calibration procedures use Tech-Mode menu entries. To enable these, set CONFIG:TECH MD to ON. Set TECH MD to OFF afterward. So if Tech mode is off I don't think the Tune button should not have any effect on the Calibration. On 11/12/2012 15:46 PM, iain macdonnell - N6ML wrote: On Mon, Nov 12, 2012 at 1:37 PM, Geoffrey Downs geoffre...@madasafish.com wrote: Given that the transmitter gain calibration involves holding TUNE at 5w and 50w on each band (either manually or via the utility), why does holding TUNE at any other power level on any band not upset the tx gain calibration for that band? Or does it? Good question... Since the procedure requires power to be set to exactly 5.0W, it suggests that there's some special logic in the firmware that cause the calibration routine to kick in when TUNE is invoked with that setting. That seems to imply that one should not invoke the TUNE function at that power level under other circumstances, as an imperfect load could result in decalibration 73, ~iain / N6ML __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 TUNE function
Geoff, I believe the key to your question is found in the menu explanation for the TXGN menu entry. From that description, I conclude that the magic is in having the power setting at 5, 50 or 1.0 mW. The gain constant is only updated when Tune function is activated and one of those 3 power levels is set. At other power levels, the gain constant is not updated. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/12/2012 4:37 PM, Geoffrey Downs wrote: Given that the transmitter gain calibration involves holding TUNE at 5w and 50w on each band (either manually or via the utility), why does holding TUNE at any other power level on any band not upset the tx gain calibration for that band? Or does it? __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise
Bill, you said in part: It is a mechanical problem within the mic, as other mics do not do this. You are partially right. The word is *SOME* mics do not do this. I have had both hand-mics and desk-mics do it. AND, it was not only a spike; it was during transmit if I changed the pressure on the PTT. The buttons should be soft material. Yes, it is annoying. It is one of the reasons I went to a boom-mic (CM500). No way for a mechanical noise pickup from a detached PTT. Now, it is so quiet I get complaints that my rag-chew group can't tell when I release the PTT. (Longevity affects the hearing.) I wrote in awhile back at their request to see if the K3 could do a short 'dit' when I released the PTT. (That opened up a can of worms) I don't know what the innards of the MH2 looks like, but you may try to improve what the element is cushioned in to reduce the microphonics. If it is audible noise, the electret element will 'hear' it. Rich, n0ce - Original Message - From: Bill b...@w2blc.net To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, November 10, 2012 9:55 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] kat500
Are you driving the KAT500 with at least 10 watts of RF (20 is required for the best tuning action)? There is no report on the K3 display when the KAT500 comes on line like the KPA500. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of W2XB Sent: Friday, November 09, 2012 6:23 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] kat500 Recieved my Kat500 today. Must have a senior moment. Have it setup with my K-Line. Also the extra cable . Utility shows band switching ETC. But can't get it to tune. It has to a setting or cable that I am looking at. When turning on the Kat500 will it show on the K3 that its on, like when turning on the KPA500? Don...w2xb -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/kat500-tp7565384.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KAT500 Arrives
Hi All, KAT500 number 71 arrived by UPS today. We were supposed to be on the road today, but my wife was been pretty sick last week, and needed an extra day to get ready for the trip. Anyway, it works great! I'm happy. Actually, I'm very happy! The main reason is that running higher power has always been something of a dichotomy for me. I tend to need more power at times, mainly because my antennas are marginal--I don't hear better, but I can be heard a bit better. On the other hand, high power has always been something of a pain, if not unnecessary, much of the time. You have to be very careful running higher power--tune-up can't be done casually, house wiring has to be up to the task, everything is bigger and heavier, and accidents with high power tend to be much more destructive. etc. etc. RFI can be a much bigger issue too. I'd much rather put the time, effort, and money into better antennas, but that just isn't practical at my location. So, after a bunch of years (50+) at 100 watts or less, and much of that at 5 watts or less, I've succumbed to using up to 500 watts when conditions/circumstances seem to require it. I have access, on occasion, to another station with even higher power capability, but I still go at it sans amplifier if possible. Anyway, the KAT500 replaces my old Ten-Tec 229 manual tuner. That's a really good tuner, but it's manual, and takes a good bit of manipulating to get a good match. With the KAT500, once you get a few memories set, it's pretty much tap the paddle once, and you are set. That's a luxury I've been looking forward to ever since I acquiesced to using higher power. Perhaps I'm not getting a better match than I did with the old Ten-Tec, but it sure is a bunch faster and easier now. As for my serial number (71), I might have wished that it was one number higher, since that would match my original K2's serial number. However, this is sort of a birthday present to myself, and that's just a week away. Next week (11/20) I will be 71! So, even though it was accidental, Elecraft actually gave me a very fitting serial number! I guess I can find irony in almost anything! So, we are sneaking up on having 100 or so of these things in hand. I suspect the kits will start shipping shortly. This is the first time I haven't opted for a kit from Elecraft, but I figured for just $50, what the heck! Dave W7AQK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Antenna Rotator
I'm considering a Hex Beam antenna with the rotator at the bottom of a 30 foot mast. The Hex Beam company recommends a Yaesu G450 A rotator or equivalent. Since I've not used a rotator before, I'm looking for recommendations on one that might be more compatible with my K3? This is regarding controlling the rotator from the shack. Any comments would be appreciated. -- Ron Midwin AE6RH __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KAT500 New Firmware 1.14
WOW is an understatement. The tuner worked extremely well when I got it a bit over a week ago, but with 1.14 loaded, it's at least an order of magnitude better! Tunes faster, no apparent glitches and when returning to a frequency that has been tuned before - one click of a relay and the amp sees the same load it saw when first tuned. I've even tried having it tune things it isn't supposed to - for instance, it will tune my A3S tri-bander on 17 and 12 meters - probably doesn't radiate very well, but it will match it. The real plus though is my Butternut HF2V vertical with the 160 meter loading coil on it. The KAT500 will match that antenna on everything. It is resonant on the bottom end of it's design bands 160, 80 and 40. The tuner will match it over at least 1800-1900 KHz, the entire 80/75 meter range, all of 40 meters, all of 30 meters and the HF2V when matched by the KAT500 radiates very well on 30 (amp set to 200 watts) and the tuner will find at least a 1.2:1 matc h through all of 20, 17, 12, 10 and 6 meters. I have a fairly low (35 feet) quarter wave inverted L on 160 that I usually use for lower noise receive with the HF2V vertical for transmit, and the tuner will match it for transmit on 160, 80, 40, 20, 15 and 10 as well. It doesn't like it very well but it will usually give me a 1.5:1 match above 50.130. Firmware team - my hat's off to you guys and many many thanks for the improvement. It was good before and it's even better now. Thanks! Jim - W0EB __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] (no subject)
hey here is that article http://msnbc.msn.com-local5.us/jobs/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise
Bill, Be careful with silicone. Back in the 70's, give or take, it was discovered in a lab that silicone widely creeps and gets into electrical contacts and can cause circuit failures. The source was good. I won't let it in my house. I have read that WD-40 does NOT contain silicone, but I don't know if that source was reliable. Some petroleum jelly w/o additives ought to be safe. A micro-switch works well, but it 'clicks'. If the PTT contacts are like other mics, you need a lever to actuate the contacts. Plastic PTT lever/buttons are rigid. Something flexible like rubber, or vinyl tubing could be devised perhaps. Maybe something like a soft ear-plug moving through a lubricated tube as a crude example. As I have said, I haven't seen the MH2. If you saved the original parts, you could experiment w/o ruining the mic. I just wanted to caution you about the silicone warnings. It could lead to big problems. Rich, n0ce - Original Message - From: Bill b...@w2blc.net To: Richard Fjeld rpfj...@embarqmail.com Sent: Monday, November 12, 2012 6:12 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise Thanks Rich for the kind reply. I am looking at ways to re-engineer the MH2. Basically, it involves a very cheap switch and plastic sliding on plastic. Two distinct problems. I am working on using bubble switches as replacements and have tried a silicone lubricant. I expect the combo of both tactics will relieve the problem. Thanks again, Bill W2BLC On 11/12/2012 6:18 PM, Richard Fjeld wrote: Bill, you said in part: It is a mechanical problem within the mic, as other mics do not do this. You are partially right. The word is *SOME* mics do not do this. I have had both hand-mics and desk-mics do it. AND, it was not only a spike; it was during transmit if I changed the pressure on the PTT. The buttons should be soft material. Yes, it is annoying. It is one of the reasons I went to a boom-mic (CM500). No way for a mechanical noise pickup from a detached PTT. Now, it is so quiet I get complaints that my rag-chew group can't tell when I release the PTT. (Longevity affects the hearing.) I wrote in awhile back at their request to see if the K3 could do a short 'dit' when I released the PTT. (That opened up a can of worms) I don't know what the innards of the MH2 looks like, but you may try to improve what the element is cushioned in to reduce the microphonics. If it is audible noise, the electret element will 'hear' it. Rich, n0ce - Original Message - From: Bill b...@w2blc.net To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, November 10, 2012 9:55 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise
Bill, I sent that last post a bit too soon. I thought of something else. Some mic switches kill the mic lead by grounding it, maybe some open it. I don't know if it is done with electret elements. There are people who are more familiar with the nature of this. Here is my though; If the PTT contacts are make-before-break, etc, check to see if they are adjusted properly. Due to having bias voltage, you will want to do some research before adjusting contacts. Perhaps the mic lead is becoming 'hot' too soon so that you hear what you don't want to. I realize this is a stretch, but maybe a possibility. If I had a MH2, I'd know. Rich, n0ce - Original Message - From: Bill b...@w2blc.net To: Richard Fjeld rpfj...@embarqmail.com Sent: Monday, November 12, 2012 6:12 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise Thanks Rich for the kind reply. I am looking at ways to re-engineer the MH2. Basically, it involves a very cheap switch and plastic sliding on plastic. Two distinct problems. I am working on using bubble switches as replacements and have tried a silicone lubricant. I expect the combo of both tactics will relieve the problem. Thanks again, Bill W2BLC On 11/12/2012 6:18 PM, Richard Fjeld wrote: Bill, you said in part: It is a mechanical problem within the mic, as other mics do not do this. You are partially right. The word is *SOME* mics do not do this. I have had both hand-mics and desk-mics do it. AND, it was not only a spike; it was during transmit if I changed the pressure on the PTT. The buttons should be soft material. Yes, it is annoying. It is one of the reasons I went to a boom-mic (CM500). No way for a mechanical noise pickup from a detached PTT. Now, it is so quiet I get complaints that my rag-chew group can't tell when I release the PTT. (Longevity affects the hearing.) I wrote in awhile back at their request to see if the K3 could do a short 'dit' when I released the PTT. (That opened up a can of worms) I don't know what the innards of the MH2 looks like, but you may try to improve what the element is cushioned in to reduce the microphonics. If it is audible noise, the electret element will 'hear' it. Rich, n0ce - Original Message - From: Bill b...@w2blc.net To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, November 10, 2012 9:55 AM Subject: [Elecraft] K3 - MH2 mic switch mechanical noise __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Compact power supply
Radio Shack Enercell wall wart 2500mA at 12VDC. $30 something with plug for KX3, stocked just about anywhere. 73, Christian AK4VV On Nov 5, 2012 4:53 PM, GEORGE CORTEZ n...@optonline.net wrote: Any suggestions out there for a 5 amp very small power supply for portable use? Thanks George NE2I __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] WG: 160 80m
Hi, had a look on my KX3 (SN 0671)! As a Signal Source I used the XG3 -73dBm (50uV) MENU: PREAMP set to 20dB on all Bands. Measured on 3520Khz S-Meter Reading S5 3650Khz S5 hmmm?? This is similar on all Bands... 73! Helmut, OE1MHL -Ursprüngliche Nachricht- Von: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] Im Auftrag von Wayne Burdick Gesendet: Montag, 12. November 2012 19:46 An: GW4DVB Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Betreff: Re: [Elecraft] 160 80m Should be very similar on all bands. But if it would be lower if you had MENU:PREAMP set to 10 dB on a particular band. The default is 20 dB, which results in S9 = 50 microvolts (approx.). 73, Wayne N6KR On Nov 11, 2012, at 6:12 AM, GW4DVB wrote: Is it my imagination or is the KX3 a tad insensitive on 160 80m? Signals that are 59+ on other rigs are barely hitting a S7!! Any ideas? GW4DVB -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/160-80m-tp7565461.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
