Re: [Elecraft] With all the problems...
Thom I can only give you my example for 2 yrs I had another top of the line radio and it was the FTDX-5000MP and I had zero issues with it. But I bought a used K3 just to compare the 2 they were so close in performance you could really not tell them apart. Except for a few small issues where one was better than the other and there were some. After 3 mo I decided to sell my 5000 and bought another K3 and set them up in a SO2R. I have been well pleased they are smaller and lighter and some of the best support anywhere that is what separates Elecraft from the pack by a long shot. IMHO you would be hard pressed to find a better radio and I tend to buy what is best not a brand loyalist. 73, Fred/N0AZZ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Greg Sent: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 7:56 PM To: 'Thom Durfee'; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] With all the problems... Thom -- You have to realize that while there are some legitimate problems raised, much of what you read is pilot error from people who either have not read the manual or have not tried very hard to solve the problem themselves. Elecraft is great. The radio is phenomenal. My K3 has replaced my trusty FT-1000D and I couldn't be more pleased with the radio. AND if you do need service or have a question, it doesn't get any better than Elecraft! Super company...super people. You won't be sorry if make the leap! 73 de Greg-N4CC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Thom Durfee Sent: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 6:09 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] With all the problems... people on this list with their K3's... I am having apprehension about ordering one. Thom WI8W __ 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
[Elecraft] KAT500 Matching Range Power Limits
Hello, I'm trying to understand what the KAT500 power limits mean in real life. If I am tuning an antenna that initially shows a very high SWR (say 14:1), and I am using high power (say 1000 watts out), the KAT500 is going to open up the PTT line, and the tuning operation will take place with less than 100 watts. Then I will show a 1:1 SWR, and I'm ready to go with my 1000 watts. Operationally, what is the meaning of the 3:1 SWR limit for 1000 watts as shown in the KAT500 specs? Will the KAT500 fault because it is matching a 14:1 SWR at high power? --Ed-- __ 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] Hey
check this out http://msnbc.msn.com-career1.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] KAT500 Matching Range Power Limits
Ed - I think you are confusing the power handling capability of a tuner with it's ability to match a non-50 ohm load. A tuner may be able to match a highly reactive load at low power, but be totally unable to handle the same load at higher power levels. The match involves selecting the appropriate values of capacitance and inductance to transform a high SWR load to 50 ohms resistive so the transmitter final amplifier can deliver power efficiently. However, when substantial power is applied, the result of the needed transformations can easily result in voltages and currents that far exceed the ability of the components comprising the matching network to handle them. Let's assume your tuner is matching a load that presents a 6 to 1 SWR. Let's further assume that you have a 100 watt transmitter. At 50 ohms, 100 watts represents about 70 volts RMS of RF signal. or about 101 volts peak. No problem for a capacitor in the matching network to handle at 50 ohms, but that 6:1 SWR means that the voltage could now be 420 volts RMS or almost 600 volts peak - still not too much of a problem. But, suppose you increase the transmitter power from 100 watts to 1000 watts. The RF voltage at 50 ohms increases to 223 volts RMS, (315 volts peak), and when the4 6:1 SWR is taken into account, that voltage is now about 1338 RMS volts, or 1820 volts peak. The same sort of thing happens with currents. At 1000 watts, the RF current at 50 ohms is a little less than 5 amperes. But at 6:1 SWR, there will be places where the current is almost 27 amperes - a significant amount to be sure. Depending on where the tuner is physically located in respect to the standing wave on the transmission line, a voltage or current peak could occur directly at the output terminals of the matching network. If that happens, the components of the matching network could easily be stressed well beyond their ability to cope. So, while the coupler may be able to handle lower power levels without distress, the same is not true at high power. In your example, 1000 watts at a 14:1 SWR could result in peak voltages of about 4400 volts and/or currents approaching 63 amperes RF. Not many components can handle those voltages and currents, and those that can are physically very large, certainly much larger than those that can fit inside the cabinet of a KAT500. - Jim, KL7CC On 11/15/2012 12:56 AM, Ed G wrote: Hello, I'm trying to understand what the KAT500 power limits mean in real life. If I am tuning an antenna that initially shows a very high SWR (say 14:1), and I am using high power (say 1000 watts out), the KAT500 is going to open up the PTT line, and the tuning operation will take place with less than 100 watts. Then I will show a 1:1 SWR, and I'm ready to go with my 1000 watts. Operationally, what is the meaning of the 3:1 SWR limit for 1000 watts as shown in the KAT500 specs? Will the KAT500 fault because it is matching a 14:1 SWR at high power? --Ed-- __ 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] Hey
Beware - phishing. 73, Pete N4ZR Check out the Reverse Beacon Network at http://reversebeacon.net, blog at reversebeacon.blogspot.com. For spots, please go to your favorite ARC V6 or VE7CC DX cluster node. On 11/15/2012 6:14 AM, Christophe F8ACF-56 wrote: check this out URL deleted __ 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] Wanted Filter KFL3B-FM 13 khz FM
If you have a FM filter you not using I would like to buy one, I bought the 2m module for my K3 and forgot to order it at that time. Trying to save a few bucks before Christmas need one now. Thanks for looking. 3, Fred/N0AZZ __ 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] soldering SMD's
I ordered K6XX's CW indicating light for my Elecraft k2 and it has some (resistors and caps) SMD's I am going to have to work with. I have been reading on the internet about ways to instal these comments. I have read about using solder paste as this helps to place them and kinds steady’s them while soldering. Any thoughts on this method?? The only SMD work I did was on my K3 with the DC mod for powering the P3 with the K3. The soldering job was not pretty at all any input on soldering SMD's would be appreciated. Mike VE3WDM http://ve3wdm.blogspot.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: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ?
Howdy K3' people: I have another 'Newbie User' Question. This one regards the fact that I notice when the K3 is already on AND I then turn-on the Windows-7 machine, at some point the rig switches to Xmit. Per the manual, it goes into Test mode, and thus, no RF Power. No other Radio software programs had been Started yet. K3 associated with COM1 which is 38400-8N1/Xon/Xoff K3 Baud Rate to 38400 This, for me anyway, repeatable. While not a problem OF the K3, whatever I haven't set up is annoying. -- 73 KD7YZ Bob __ 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] P3 -- Span slow to update
Such support! No fewer than three messages were waiting in my Inbox this morning with P3 firmware 1.09 almost completely unsolicited (I'd only mentioned that I couldn't find it on the FTP server). Thank you so much! I'll now be sure not to lose it. Heh! 73, de Nate, N0NB -- The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all possible worlds. The pessimist fears this is true. Ham radio, Linux, bikes, and more: http://www.n0nb.us __ 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: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ?
My Dell Win7/64 box keys the K3 seven times in a burst on boot up. If the K3 is already on I just enable TX test until boot up has completed. Regards, Mike VP8NO On 15/11/2012 08:53, KD7YZ Bob wrote: Howdy K3' people: I have another 'Newbie User' Question. This one regards the fact that I notice when the K3 is already on AND I then turn-on the Windows-7 machine, at some point the rig switches to Xmit. Per the manual, it goes into Test mode, and thus, no RF Power. No other Radio software programs had been Started yet. K3 associated with COM1 which is 38400-8N1/Xon/Xoff K3 Baud Rate to 38400 This, for me anyway, repeatable. While not a problem OF the K3, whatever I haven't set up is annoying. __ 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] More KAT500
Ed - According to Elecraft, the KAT500 can match 10:1 SWR at 500 watts, on any band 80 to 10 meters. It can also match 3:1 SWR at 1000 watts on those same bands. The 160 meter and 6 meter capabilities are a bit more limited, but it will still match a fairly wide range of loads. By inference, 10:1 SWR at 500 watts between 3 and 30 MHz could result in peak voltages in the range of 2250 volts and peak currents of 42 amperes RF (one or the other, not simultaneously). This is pretty impressive for a box that size. Using those voltages as limits, that indicates that the KAT500 could handle power levels of about 250 watts at a 14:1 SWR. Any more could result in damage. I would suggest replacing the 300-ohm line on the antenna with 450-ohm ladder line, and inserting a 4:1 balun between the antenna and the KAT500. I suspect that this will reduce the SWR excursions, and may get you inside the envelope for what the KAT500 can handle. A commonly used antenna is a doublet (dipole) fed with open wire, a 4:1 balun, and a coupler. Most installations use a length of RG-8 coaxial cable (typically 10 to 20 feet, but no longer than necessary) to get through the wall - or from the coupler to the balun immediately outside the building, then the open wire line connects to the balun at that point and continues to the antenna. 450-ohm ladder line is usually a better choice because it is designed for transmitting use, where 300-ohm line is usually TV lead-in and not particularly suited for use at higher power. Some transmitter rated 300 ohm line exists, and if you have that type, it may work for you. As with all open-wire type lines, keep the line at least 8 to 12 from metal objects if possible, more is better, and avoid abrupt right angle turns. - Jim, KL7CC On 11/15/2012 2:41 AM, Goss, Ed wrote: Hi Jim, Thanks for the info. I am at work now and unable to post back to the group, but I appreciate the explanation. For the low bands, I use a 135 ft inv vee center fed with 300 ohm line, with a 1:1 balun near the shack. When my KAT500 starts to tune itself, I am seeing high SWRs, such as 14:1. After the auto tune cycle, it's 1:1. Perhaps I should be concerned that even with 100 watts, there would be conditions that overstress KAT500 internal parts with this type of antenna, but I want to be very careful about not damaging the tuner. I'm not quite sure how a user would know these limits, or if the KAT500 protects itself in any way. Perhaps the KAT500 is meant to work with antennas that present a somewhat better match to start with, like a typical 80 meter dipole which is cut for CW but the user wants to use all the way up to 4.0 MHz... --Ed--- __ 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] Exchanging Configuration files.
Part of the data in the configuration file is per-radio calibration information. Be sure to recalibrate (completely) the radio that receives this configuration, including crystal filter configurations (filter offsets, widths, modes) etc. 73 de Dick, K6KR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm Sent: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 2:31 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Exchanging Configuration files. I guess that could be done, but would have to be constrained to 2 K3's that have identical configurations - options, filters, etc., and consider that it would certainly be mis-used if it were available, resulting in additional customer support effort at Elecraft. The task is greater than just cloning memories and repeater offsets that can be done with many VHF/UHF transceivers. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/14/2012 5:23 PM, Gary Smith wrote: Don, I was afraid of that. Too bad, it would be nice to be able to exchange settings easily. 73, __ 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: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ?
During system boot as the various drivers load they will assert i/o as they initialize the hardware they own. Com port pins might toggle, video memory get initialized, drives might be homed, etc. Normal stuff -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike Harris Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 04:09 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ? My Dell Win7/64 box keys the K3 seven times in a burst on boot up. If the K3 is already on I just enable TX test until boot up has completed. Regards, Mike VP8NO On 15/11/2012 08:53, KD7YZ Bob wrote: Howdy K3' people: I have another 'Newbie User' Question. This one regards the fact that I notice when the K3 is already on AND I then turn-on the Windows-7 machine, at some point the rig switches to Xmit. Per the manual, it goes into Test mode, and thus, no RF Power. No other Radio software programs had been Started yet. K3 associated with COM1 which is 38400-8N1/Xon/Xoff K3 Baud Rate to 38400 This, for me anyway, repeatable. While not a problem OF the K3, whatever I haven't set up is annoying. __ 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] More KAT500
This seems so in many cases but it is very doublet length dependent. I ran one case in TLW with 45' of 450 ohm line that came out as 13 ohms. With a 4:1 balun you'd probably be dropping this further. High current and most likely not a match. The best suggestion is to model the antenna at height, get it's feedpoint impedances at bands of interest. Then go into a program like TLW with the 450 ohm line length and see what impedance results at the shack end. Adjusting 450 ohm length or doublet length may be required for an adequate compromise on the bands of interest. Without some analysis (or a proven design) it will be a crap shoot. 73 de Brian/K3KO On 11/15/2012 12:31, Jim Wiley wrote: Ed - According to Elecraft, the KAT500 can match 10:1 SWR at 500 watts, on any band 80 to 10 meters. It can also match 3:1 SWR at 1000 watts on those same bands. The 160 meter and 6 meter capabilities are a bit more limited, but it will still match a fairly wide range of loads. By inference, 10:1 SWR at 500 watts between 3 and 30 MHz could result in peak voltages in the range of 2250 volts and peak currents of 42 amperes RF (one or the other, not simultaneously). This is pretty impressive for a box that size. Using those voltages as limits, that indicates that the KAT500 could handle power levels of about 250 watts at a 14:1 SWR. Any more could result in damage. I would suggest replacing the 300-ohm line on the antenna with 450-ohm ladder line, and inserting a 4:1 balun between the antenna and the KAT500. I suspect that this will reduce the SWR excursions, and may get you inside the envelope for what the KAT500 can handle. A commonly used antenna is a doublet (dipole) fed with open wire, a 4:1 balun, and a coupler. Most installations use a length of RG-8 coaxial cable (typically 10 to 20 feet, but no longer than necessary) to get through the wall - or from the coupler to the balun immediately outside the building, then the open wire line connects to the balun at that point and continues to the antenna. 450-ohm ladder line is usually a better choice because it is designed for transmitting use, where 300-ohm line is usually TV lead-in and not particularly suited for use at higher power. Some transmitter rated 300 ohm line exists, and if you have that type, it may work for you. As with all open-wire type lines, keep the line at least 8 to 12 from metal objects if possible, more is better, and avoid abrupt right angle turns. - Jim, KL7CC On 11/15/2012 2:41 AM, Goss, Ed wrote: Hi Jim, Thanks for the info. I am at work now and unable to post back to the group, but I appreciate the explanation. For the low bands, I use a 135 ft inv vee center fed with 300 ohm line, with a 1:1 balun near the shack. When my KAT500 starts to tune itself, I am seeing high SWRs, such as 14:1. After the auto tune cycle, it's 1:1. Perhaps I should be concerned that even with 100 watts, there would be conditions that overstress KAT500 internal parts with this type of antenna, but I want to be very careful about not damaging the tuner. I'm not quite sure how a user would know these limits, or if the KAT500 protects itself in any way. Perhaps the KAT500 is meant to work with antennas that present a somewhat better match to start with, like a typical 80 meter dipole which is cut for CW but the user wants to use all the way up to 4.0 MHz... --Ed--- __ 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 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2221 / Virus Database: 2441/5394 - Release Date: 11/14/12 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2221 / Virus Database: 2441/5396 - Release Date: 11/15/12 __ 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] More KAT500
I use a 1:1 balun at 450 ohm ladder line to get thru the attic and then 4 inch open wire outside to the dipole. Chuck, KE9UW Lionel Trains, TCA, LCCA, LRRC aka Jack, BMW Motorcycles BMWMOA #224 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] on behalf of Brian Alsop [als...@nc.rr.com] Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 7:02 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] More KAT500 This seems so in many cases but it is very doublet length dependent. I ran one case in TLW with 45' of 450 ohm line that came out as 13 ohms. With a 4:1 balun you'd probably be dropping this further. High current and most likely not a match. The best suggestion is to model the antenna at height, get it's feedpoint impedances at bands of interest. Then go into a program like TLW with the 450 ohm line length and see what impedance results at the shack end. Adjusting 450 ohm length or doublet length may be required for an adequate compromise on the bands of interest. Without some analysis (or a proven design) it will be a crap shoot. 73 de Brian/K3KO On 11/15/2012 12:31, Jim Wiley wrote: Ed - According to Elecraft, the KAT500 can match 10:1 SWR at 500 watts, on any band 80 to 10 meters. It can also match 3:1 SWR at 1000 watts on those same bands. The 160 meter and 6 meter capabilities are a bit more limited, but it will still match a fairly wide range of loads. By inference, 10:1 SWR at 500 watts between 3 and 30 MHz could result in peak voltages in the range of 2250 volts and peak currents of 42 amperes RF (one or the other, not simultaneously). This is pretty impressive for a box that size. Using those voltages as limits, that indicates that the KAT500 could handle power levels of about 250 watts at a 14:1 SWR. Any more could result in damage. I would suggest replacing the 300-ohm line on the antenna with 450-ohm ladder line, and inserting a 4:1 balun between the antenna and the KAT500. I suspect that this will reduce the SWR excursions, and may get you inside the envelope for what the KAT500 can handle. A commonly used antenna is a doublet (dipole) fed with open wire, a 4:1 balun, and a coupler. Most installations use a length of RG-8 coaxial cable (typically 10 to 20 feet, but no longer than necessary) to get through the wall - or from the coupler to the balun immediately outside the building, then the open wire line connects to the balun at that point and continues to the antenna. 450-ohm ladder line is usually a better choice because it is designed for transmitting use, where 300-ohm line is usually TV lead-in and not particularly suited for use at higher power. Some transmitter rated 300 ohm line exists, and if you have that type, it may work for you. As with all open-wire type lines, keep the line at least 8 to 12 from metal objects if possible, more is better, and avoid abrupt right angle turns. - Jim, KL7CC On 11/15/2012 2:41 AM, Goss, Ed wrote: Hi Jim, Thanks for the info. I am at work now and unable to post back to the group, but I appreciate the explanation. For the low bands, I use a 135 ft inv vee center fed with 300 ohm line, with a 1:1 balun near the shack. When my KAT500 starts to tune itself, I am seeing high SWRs, such as 14:1. After the auto tune cycle, it's 1:1. Perhaps I should be concerned that even with 100 watts, there would be conditions that overstress KAT500 internal parts with this type of antenna, but I want to be very careful about not damaging the tuner. I'm not quite sure how a user would know these limits, or if the KAT500 protects itself in any way. Perhaps the KAT500 is meant to work with antennas that present a somewhat better match to start with, like a typical 80 meter dipole which is cut for CW but the user wants to use all the way up to 4.0 MHz... --Ed--- __ 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 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2221 / Virus Database: 2441/5394 - Release Date: 11/14/12 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2221 / Virus Database: 2441/5396 - Release Date: 11/15/12 __ 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:
Re: [Elecraft] K3: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ?
Bob, Do you have the K3 set to activate either keying or PTT from the DTR or RTS lines (CONFIG: PTT-KEY menu set to something other than OFF-OFF)? If so, the K3 will go into transmit (not TX TEST) when the computer boots up and tests the RS-232 signal lines. What the manual says is that *if* you are in that menu entry, then an active DTR or RTS line will result in the K3 going into TX TEST. Normally, you will not have that menu item open, and the K3 will go into real transmit. To avoid this situation, you can boot the computer before powering the K3, or switch the K3 to a dummy load while the computer is booting or manually put the K3 in TX TEST while the computer boots or disconnect the RS-232 connection. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/15/2012 6:53 AM, KD7YZ Bob wrote: Howdy K3' people: I have another 'Newbie User' Question. This one regards the fact that I notice when the K3 is already on AND I then turn-on the Windows-7 machine, at some point the rig switches to Xmit. Per the manual, it goes into Test mode, and thus, no RF Power. No other Radio software programs had been Started yet. K3 associated with COM1 which is 38400-8N1/Xon/Xoff K3 Baud Rate to 38400 This, for me anyway, repeatable. While not a problem OF the K3, whatever I haven't set up is annoying. __ 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 Matching Range Power Limits
Ed: The KAT500 does open up the PTT line and tunes at low power. An early step in that tuning measures the SWR of your 14:1 antenna with the KAT500 in its bypassed relay configuration. Then the ATU finds the reactive components needed to match your antenna. The bypass VSWR is retained in each tuner memory and is used to evaluate the power that the ATU can safely handle. Should you exceed this power, for example 1000 watts into an antenna that was originally 14:1, the ATU faults. I would recommend Transmission Lines for Windows (TLW), a computer program written by Dean Straw (N6BV), available in recent editions of the ARRL Antenna Book, to evaluate tuner component stresses at various antenna impedances. Our tuner configuration is what Dean calls a Low Pass L network. High power high SWR results in some surprisingly high tuner voltages and currents. The KAT500 is robust, but the components have limits related to the advertised KAT500 capability. 73 de Dick, K6KR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ed G Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 1:57 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] KAT500 Matching Range Power Limits Hello, I'm trying to understand what the KAT500 power limits mean in real life. If I am tuning an antenna that initially shows a very high SWR (say 14:1), and I am using high power (say 1000 watts out), the KAT500 is going to open up the PTT line, and the tuning operation will take place with less than 100 watts. Then I will show a 1:1 SWR, and I'm ready to go with my 1000 watts. Operationally, what is the meaning of the 3:1 SWR limit for 1000 watts as shown in the KAT500 specs? Will the KAT500 fault because it is matching a 14:1 SWR at high power? --Ed-- __ 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] the instructions for loading macros say...
Oops, I found not applicable to the KX3 at present as long as I am not missing something -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Jeff Herr Sent: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 17:15 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] the instructions for loading macros say... On the KX3 front panel, hold CONFIG and adjust VFO B until the word MACROS appears in the VFO B area. What is CONFIG? I don't see 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 __ 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] More KAT500
There is a common error in assuming that a 4:1 balun should be used with 450 ohm (or 300 ohm) transmission line. The impedance at the shack end of the line has nothing to do with the characteristic impedance of the line, and the feedpoint impedance may actually be quite low. If you have a 5 ohm feedpoint impedance, a 4:1 balun will bring that down further to 1.25 ohms producing an impedance that most any tuner will find difficult to match. Bottom line - do some analysis to see what feedpoint impedance you are really dealing with. If you cannot model the antenna or if you did not measure the length of the feedline, you can at least measure what you have with an antenna analyzer. If the impedance on all bands of interest is high, then a 4:1 balun may be appropriate, but if the impedance is lower than 100 ohms, then a 1:1 balun will produce an easier load for the tuner. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/15/2012 7:31 AM, Jim Wiley wrote: Using those voltages as limits, that indicates that the KAT500 could handle power levels of about 250 watts at a 14:1 SWR. Any more could result in damage. I would suggest replacing the 300-ohm line on the antenna with 450-ohm ladder line, and inserting a 4:1 balun between the antenna and the KAT500. I suspect that this will reduce the SWR excursions, and may get you inside the envelope for what the KAT500 can handle. __ 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 Matching Range Power Limits
The voltage or current can be as bad as the 1:1 voltage or current multiplied by the square root of SWR – NOT multiplied by directly by SWR. So voltage or current at a 6:1 SWR could be as bad as about 2.5 times the 1:1 SWR voltage or current, and at 10:1 SWR a little over three times the 1:1 SWR values. Note that these are worst-case numbers – and as voltage goes up current goes down and vice versa for a given power level. Phil – AD5X “Let's assume your tuner is matching a load that presents a 6 to 1 SWR. Let's further assume that you have a 100 watt transmitter. At 50 ohms, 100 watts represents about 70 volts RMS of RF signal. or about 101 volts peak. No problem for a capacitor in the matching network to handle at 50 ohms, but that 6:1 SWR means that the voltage could now be 420 volts RMS or almost 600 volts peak - still not too much of a problem. But, suppose you increase the transmitter power from 100 watts to 1000 watts. The RF voltage at 50 ohms increases to 223 volts RMS, (315 volts peak), and when the 6:1 SWR is taken into account, that voltage is now about 1338 RMS volts, or 1820 volts peak. The same sort of thing happens with currents. At 1000 watts, the RF current at 50 ohms is a little less than 5 amperes. But at 6:1 SWR, there will be places where the current is almost 27 amperes - a significant amount to be sure.” __ 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 - ClearSpeech filters
Is anyone using the West Mountain ClearSpeech filter with their K3? How does it do with SSB white noise elimination (the constant background his of the receiver when not actually hearing a signal)? Thanks, Bill W2BLC __ 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] soldering SMD's
Mike, Tom Hammond (SK) wrote the assembly instructions for that kit and included detailed instructions for soldering SMD parts. I suggest you try that method before investing in solder paste or any other special tools. You can fine the instructions at Tom's website http://www.n0ss.net/k6xx_cw_tun_ind_smd_v2_assy-align_k2_ver.pdf I use a variation of that method. Instead of any holding stick, I use tweezers to pick up the part and hold it in place on the board. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to the tweezers or you will launch the part into unknown places and it will become vacuum cleaner fodder. I put a bit of solder on one solder pad for any particular part, then position the part and re-melt the solder to tack the part in place. Then I solder the other leads and if necessary go back to the first pad and add a bit of flux and solder to assure a good connection. The use of small diameter solder will help allow you to more easily control the amount of solder applied. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/15/2012 6:51 AM, Mike Weir wrote: I ordered K6XX's CW indicating light for my Elecraft k2 and it has some (resistors and caps) SMD's I am going to have to work with. I have been reading on the internet about ways to instal these comments. I have read about using solder paste as this helps to place them and kinds steady’s them while soldering. Any thoughts on this method?? The only SMD work I did was on my K3 with the DC mod for powering the P3 with the K3. The soldering job was not pretty at all any input on soldering SMD's would be appreciated. Mike VE3WDM __ 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] soldering SMD's
Hi Mike VE3WDM, I reccomend you to watch this solder tutorial on Youtube, to provide you tips to a good solder result for SMD tacking methods: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCwK40KUNRg The advantage of the bump-tack-method is that you will only have to steady the component for a few seconds while re-heating the first pad, until the component is tacked in place. There is an entire youtube channel for BEST Inc. called SolderingGeek that is a good ressource to improve our craftmanship in soldering techniques, SMD as well as leaded technologies. 73' Brian OZ2BRN K2 # 6936 and Kx3 # 1118 Den 15-Nov-12 12:51, Mike Weir skrev: I ordered K6XX's CW indicating light for my Elecraft k2 and it has some (resistors and caps) SMD's I am going to have to work with. I have been reading on the internet about ways to instal these comments. I have read about using solder paste as this helps to place them and kinds steady’s them while soldering. Any thoughts on this method?? The only SMD work I did was on my K3 with the DC mod for powering the P3 with the K3. The soldering job was not pretty at all any input on soldering SMD's would be appreciated. Mike VE3WDM http://ve3wdm.blogspot.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
Re: [Elecraft] soldering SMD's
There are a bunch of videos on the web on this subject. I got some ultra-fine solder at Radio Shack, put a dot on one of the pads, and held the chip cap or resistor down with a pencil eraserwhile melting the solder with a fine-tip iron, then applied solder in the conventional way to the other end. Works fine. You have to look out for surface tension in the solder blob, which is why the pencil eraser - otherwise you'll find some of your chips standing up on end once the solder goes molten. 73, Pete N4ZR Check out the Reverse Beacon Network at http://reversebeacon.net, blog at reversebeacon.blogspot.com. For spots, please go to your favorite ARC V6 or VE7CC DX cluster node. On 11/15/2012 6:51 AM, Mike Weir wrote: I ordered K6XX's CW indicating light for my Elecraft k2 and it has some (resistors and caps) SMD's I am going to have to work with. I have been reading on the internet about ways to instal these comments. I have read about using solder paste as this helps to place them and kinds steady’s them while soldering. Any thoughts on this method?? The only SMD work I did was on my K3 with the DC mod for powering the P3 with the K3. The soldering job was not pretty at all any input on soldering SMD's would be appreciated. Mike VE3WDM http://ve3wdm.blogspot.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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 - ClearSpeech filters
I use the ClearSpeech speaker in my mobile operation. Same DSP, just adds an amplified speaker. It is a good addition for mobile but would not recommend it for base operation. The DSP seems to add its own noise. I suspect you have other noise issues if you are distracted by noise on the K3 in routine operation. I don't find mine noisy. What is your setup; antenna, grounding, radio settings, etc? On Nov 15, 2012, at 8:01 AM, Bill Clarke b...@w2blc.net wrote: Is anyone using the West Mountain ClearSpeech filter with their K3? How does it do with SSB white noise elimination (the constant background his of the receiver when not actually hearing a signal)? Thanks, Bill W2BLC __ 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 - Clear Speech filters
Bill I have a Gap Hear It and a Clear speech both and you have a better answer in your K3 just use your NR noise reduction. You can dial in exactly what you need or use the RF/SQL button whichever one you like I use the NR when I think I have to eliminate the white noise. 73, Fred/N0AZZ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bill Clarke Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 8:01 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3 - ClearSpeech filters Is anyone using the West Mountain ClearSpeech filter with their K3? How does it do with SSB white noise elimination (the constant background his of the receiver when not actually hearing a signal)? Thanks, Bill W2BLC __ 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] With all the problems...
Thom, I believe the reason it seems like so many problems turn up here is because Elecraft owners KNOW that their issue is likely to be solved here. And I think a large number of issues posted here are pilot error, rather than hardware failures. I've owned YaeComWood rigs over the years, and I can state with 100% certainty that the responses here are the most helpful in the world. None of those other groups had the owners/engineers/tech support people respond. Any piece of gear from your can opener to your computer can have problems. What separates companies is how that's handled. Elecraft can't be beat. Buy with confidence that you're not making a mistake. 73, Mike NF4L On Nov 14, 2012, at 8:08 PM, Thom Durfee p...@priest.com wrote: people on this list with their K3's... I am having apprehension about ordering one. Thom WI8W __ 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] With all the problems...
Thom, My K2 and K3 have worked flawlessly for years despite being hauled around in a trailer. The difference between Elecraft and the other brands is in performance and customer service response. 73, Neil NJ6L __ 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: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ?
If one doesn't do CW via DTR/RTS you can turn off the CONFIG PTT-KEY (set it to OFF-OFF). Then the boot process won't affect the K3. I finally got so annoyed by this that I got a WinKey USB. The computer-generated CW is cleaner, too. On 11/15/12 5:01 AM, Jeff Herr wrote: During system boot as the various drivers load they will assert i/o as they initialize the hardware they own. Com port pins might toggle, video memory get initialized, drives might be homed, etc. Normal stuff -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike Harris Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 04:09 To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ? My Dell Win7/64 box keys the K3 seven times in a burst on boot up. If the K3 is already on I just enable TX test until boot up has completed. Regards, Mike VP8NO On 15/11/2012 08:53, KD7YZ Bob wrote: Howdy K3' people: I have another 'Newbie User' Question. This one regards the fact that I notice when the K3 is already on AND I then turn-on the Windows-7 machine, at some point the rig switches to Xmit. Per the manual, it goes into Test mode, and thus, no RF Power. No other Radio software programs had been Started yet. K3 associated with COM1 which is 38400-8N1/Xon/Xoff K3 Baud Rate to 38400 This, for me anyway, repeatable. While not a problem OF the K3, whatever I haven't set up is annoying. -- Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ __ 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] With all the problems [opportunities]
Our goal is to improve existing products while seeking input on new products and features. This is a very organic process. It can be a little chaotic at times, involving long reflector threads. We adjust priorities when necessary based on the extended conversation. Our motto, hands-on ham radio, applies to this meta-level interaction between our staff and customers, as well as to the literal process of building Elecraft gear. I hope we all have a richer experience as a result. 73, Wayne N6KR __ 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] WAS: (With all the problems) ... New Elecraft Opportunities - Products ..
A little Off Topic the way I've wrote this perhaps (apologies) ... Wayne - N6KR Wrote ...Our goal is to improve existing products while seeking input on new products and features.. Our motto, hands-on ham radio, our customers as well building Elecraft gear. I hope we all have a richer experience as a result... = Well MY VOTE in case I've missed it ?? would be for a: Dedicated Elecraft Product (FOR THOSE WHO CAN'T\HAVEN'T BUILT ONE BEFORE) Elecraft Styled Portable-in-Hand Step Attenuator The kind that can be left in line during Rx\Tx and adjusted accordingly for various Power Outputs from ones transceiver ... There was a nice design to take ones transceiver into the Milliwatt AND Microwatt output power range in the 1981 or 1983 ARRL Handbook from what I remember ..? And I think Ten Tec did one in yester-year also but their like Hen's Teeth to find now ... For me this would be a tremendous addition to the shack, so perhaps for others as well... And YES Wayne ! This WOULD make my operating experience a LOT Richer .. Again Apologies guy's if I've missed-the-train on this, not checked the Elecraft website in quite a while... 73's Andy GM0NWI andy.gm0n...@btinternet.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
Re: [Elecraft] XG50
Hi John, You can buy it now, it's on our order page. The XG50 comes as a kit of 9 parts including the PCB and takes about 15 minutes to build (if that). 73, Paul -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/XG50-tp7565676p7565710.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
Re: [Elecraft] With all the problems...
Mike, I think like everything in the world, we get used to something and the expectations get higher without realizing how really well we have it. Elecraft does such a great job, even expecting criticism to improve, that we can almost come to think we get license to behave like a bunch of careless, brainless hooligans. 73, Bill K9YEQ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mike Reublin Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 9:04 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Reflector Subject: Re: [Elecraft] With all the problems... Thom, I believe the reason it seems like so many problems turn up here is because Elecraft owners KNOW that their issue is likely to be solved here. And I think a large number of issues posted here are pilot error, rather than hardware failures. I've owned YaeComWood rigs over the years, and I can state with 100% certainty that the responses here are the most helpful in the world. None of those other groups had the owners/engineers/tech support people respond. Any piece of gear from your can opener to your computer can have problems. What separates companies is how that's handled. Elecraft can't be beat. Buy with confidence that you're not making a mistake. 73, Mike NF4L On Nov 14, 2012, at 8:08 PM, Thom Durfee p...@priest.com wrote: people on this list with their K3's... I am having apprehension about ordering one. Thom WI8W __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] soldering SMD's
Here are the instructions from some other kits: Install surface-mount inductor L3. Pre-tin the inductor pads on the PC board sparingly with solder before installing the part. Place this component on the two pad locations and restrain carefully in place with tweezers. Tack one end down with the soldering iron, solder the other end sparingly, and retouch the end originally tacked down. Good component alignment is important to ensure that there are no short-circuits- check your work carefully for solder bridges. U1 Installation: It's important to install the Surface-mount IC (U1) first- it's more difficult to install when surrounded by other components. Remove U1 from its protective packaging and place it over the pads on the board. Do not pre-tin the pads. 'Tack' down one of the IC corner pins while holding the device down with a fingertip. Move to the opposite side of the IC and solder all pins down. Note: it's easiest to use an excess of solder and remove the excess with solder-wick. (Solder the second group of 4 pins and wick as needed. I have built both kits and had no problems. I didn't use solder wick on the 8 pin U1 chip, just careful use of a narrow chisel soldering iron tip and thin solder. I use a temperature controlled, ESD safe soldering station. Cheers - Bill, AE6JV On 11/15/12 at 3:51 AM, ve3...@hotmail.com (Mike Weir) wrote: I ordered K6XX's CW indicating light for my Elecraft k2 and it has some (resistors and caps) SMD's I am going to have to work with. I have been reading on the internet about ways to instal these comments. I have read about using solder paste as this helps to place them and kinds steady’s them while soldering. Any thoughts on this method?? The only SMD work I did was on my K3 with the DC mod for powering the P3 with the K3. The soldering job was not pretty at all any input on soldering SMD's would be appreciated. Mike VE3WDM http://ve3wdm.blogspot.com --- Bill Frantz| If the site is supported by | Periwinkle (408)356-8506 | ads, you are the product.| 16345 Englewood Ave www.pwpconsult.com | | Los Gatos, CA 95032 __ 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] With all the problems...
Take a bigger perspective - there are about 7000+ K2s out there ( mine is
sn7105) and there are about 6000+ K3s if I venture to guess. And now there are
also 2500+ KX3s. Yes there are problems because (//{}# happens. My k2 got
zapped by static and blew the wattmeter diodes. Don W3FPR and the Elecraft
reflector got me back running in a matter of days by helping me diagnose the
problem and I was back in the air within a few days and even repaired it myself
with a few dollars worth of diodes (mostly postage). Contrast that to when my
FT817 was in for repairs. Over the course of two repair cycles I was out 2
months without a radio and was also out $150 in repair bills. To this day I
don't know what went wrong. The Elecraft gear are as rugged as nails. Mine
has been out on multiple field days. That is why they are the choice of
DXpeditioners. They have the best combination of form factor, ruggedness and
ergonomics. No I did not drink the Elecraft kool-aid just lauding
the good gear that they are.
Ariel
Sent from my iPad
On Nov 14, 2012, at 8:48 PM, Dave, W8OV w...@verizon.net wrote:
Thom,
I had the same apprehension as I read the list for a few weeks before
ordering my K3 kit in May of 2009. I figured that if there is a problem
it will likely show up on the list, but considering the numbers sold,
that percentage was still small. So you probably aren't seeing notes
from the majority-- folks like me who put the kit together carefully or
bought a factory assembled K3 and have had nothing but satisfaction with it.
73, Dave W8OV
On 11/14/2012 7:08 PM, Thom Durfee wrote:
people on this list with their K3's...
I am having apprehension about ordering one.
Thom WI8W
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Re: [Elecraft] soldering SMD's
I use the method (with one change) that is described by Don, W3FPR. I use 0.025 inch diameter solder. I tin the pad that I want to solder, first, with a tiny bit of solder. Holding the iron on the pad so the solder is fluid, I use small tweezers to hold the part on the surface of the pc board and slide it into the solder. Hold very still and remove the iron. After about 5-sec release the tweezers. Then solder the other contacts of the part, coming back after doing that to reheat the original solder point. Often that initial soldering needs a bit of reflow. I avoid soldering the ground side of any part as the first contact as ground plains typically take more heat to flow solder. Get the part attached and finish soldering the grounds. Use good temperature on grounds to speed the process. Heating the device too long can destroy them. A bit of flux can help the ground soldering. Also one should clean the surface of a new pc board before soldering anything. It can be as easy as using a pencil eraser which will remove surface oils which prevent good heat transvfer. I sometimes use a bit of alcohol with an acid brush to accomplish the same. GL, Ed - KL7UW __ 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] With all the problems...
Thom, a couple of years ago one of the ops brought a K3 to Field Day. At the time I thought that it was nuts to bring a transceiver of such high value out into the elements. But, he's brought it for the last two years and it was our workhorse on 20m, CW and SSB. Similarly, many a K3 has been taken on a DXpedition, with excellent results. For home use, I don't think you have any cause for concern. As was noted, if any problem arises, it will be quickly solved by the collective experience of this list or by Elecraft. I don't recall an instance when an entire piece of Elecraft equipment had to be returned to the factory for repair. In October I attended Pacificon, and paused for a moment to look over the FTDX-5000. Looks like it would take an advanced degree to operate all of the controls. I was the only person even giving it a glance, where the Elecraft booth had a steady stream of traffic. I'm sure that Lisa was busy taking orders, but at least she had time for a short chat. 72/73 de Jim - AD6CW On Nov 14, 2012, at 6:08 PM, Thom Durfee p...@priest.com wrote: people on this list with their K3's... I am having apprehension about ordering one. Thom WI8W __ 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] With all the problems...
Jim From owning both rigs I can say right out of the box you can be on the air working weak signal DX much easier than the K3. All base controls are right in front of you no menu's for setup to get going in the beginning. Whereas my K2, K3's require quite a bit of digging to setup in the beginning, don't make the mistake of selling it short. I sold mine and kept my 2 K3's for a SO2R setup but space limitations came into play also. I do really like my K3 but some features of the 5000 IMHO were better, but there are trade off's in everything. No perfect radio!..But Elecraft comes as close as you can get. 73, Fred/N0AZZ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Jim Lowman Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 12:14 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] With all the problems... Thom, a couple of years ago one of the ops brought a K3 to Field Day. At the time I thought that it was nuts to bring a transceiver of such high value out into the elements. But, he's brought it for the last two years and it was our workhorse on 20m, CW and SSB. Similarly, many a K3 has been taken on a DXpedition, with excellent results. For home use, I don't think you have any cause for concern. As was noted, if any problem arises, it will be quickly solved by the collective experience of this list or by Elecraft. I don't recall an instance when an entire piece of Elecraft equipment had to be returned to the factory for repair. In October I attended Pacificon, and paused for a moment to look over the FTDX-5000. Looks like it would take an advanced degree to operate all of the controls. I was the only person even giving it a glance, where the Elecraft booth had a steady stream of traffic. I'm sure that Lisa was busy taking orders, but at least she had time for a short chat. 72/73 de Jim - AD6CW On Nov 14, 2012, at 6:08 PM, Thom Durfee p...@priest.com wrote: people on this list with their K3's... I am having apprehension about ordering one. Thom WI8W __ 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 - ClearSpeech filters
Bill . . . Neither the K3 nor the KX3 need any external Noise Reduction hardwareat all, especially when their other receiving tools are brought to bear along with the NR circuit. However, I do use the West Mountain ClearSpeech external audio filter (not to be confused with an I.F. filter) in conjunction with a Yaesu FT-897D. This radio (along with many others) benefits greatly from the ClearSpeech due to the poor performance of the radio's DSP notch filter and slightly less poor NR. The adjustable threshold of the West Mountain version is a distinct plus when compared with the original Am-Com ClearSpeech which was not adjustableat all. White noise is the oneparameter that all Noise Reduction circuits accomplishbest, in my opinion, and the ClearSpeech does it very well. 73, Kent K9ZTV On 11/15/2012 8:01 AM, Bill Clarke wrote: Is anyone using the West Mountain ClearSpeech filter with their K3? How does it do with SSB white noise elimination (the constant background his of the receiver when not actually hearing a signal)? Thanks, Bill W2BLC __ 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 Matching Range Power Limits
If you have a KAT500, there is a good way to understand how the tuner works in high power modes by running the KAT500 Utility while operating the tuner and watching the Last Observed section of the Operate tab. The Bypass VSWR value is shown near the bottom of the Last Observed section. If that value is above 10.0 the tuner will fault when you try to tune at high power. I believe there is another plateau in the power range that causes a fault if the Bypass VSWR is above 3.0, but I'm not sure what the power limit is for that because I only use the KPA500 here. Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Thu, 15 Nov 2012 05:42:07 -0800, Dick Dievendorff die...@comcast.net wrote: Ed: The KAT500 does open up the PTT line and tunes at low power. An early step in that tuning measures the SWR of your 14:1 antenna with the KAT500 in its bypassed relay configuration. Then the ATU finds the reactive components needed to match your antenna. The bypass VSWR is retained in each tuner memory and is used to evaluate the power that the ATU can safely handle. Should you exceed this power, for example 1000 watts into an antenna that was originally 14:1, the ATU faults. I would recommend Transmission Lines for Windows (TLW), a computer program written by Dean Straw (N6BV), available in recent editions of the ARRL Antenna Book, to evaluate tuner component stresses at various antenna impedances. Our tuner configuration is what Dean calls a Low Pass L network. High power high SWR results in some surprisingly high tuner voltages and currents. The KAT500 is robust, but the components have limits related to the advertised KAT500 capability. 73 de Dick, K6KR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ed G Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 1:57 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] KAT500 Matching Range Power Limits Hello, I'm trying to understand what the KAT500 power limits mean in real life. If I am tuning an antenna that initially shows a very high SWR (say 14:1), and I am using high power (say 1000 watts out), the KAT500 is going to open up the PTT line, and the tuning operation will take place with less than 100 watts. Then I will show a 1:1 SWR, and I'm ready to go with my 1000 watts. Operationally, what is the meaning of the 3:1 SWR limit for 1000 watts as shown in the KAT500 specs? Will the KAT500 fault because it is matching a 14:1 SWR at high power? --Ed-- __ 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
[Elecraft] KAT500
Eric et al I understand that KAT500 Kits will start shipping next week after successful field testing and when the manual is printed. When will the rest of the World and especially the UK start expecting shipments to our zones! Regards Ken..G0ORH Sent from my iPhone 4 __ 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] More KAT500
I hope you have the ladder-line supported by fire-proof (ceramic) insulators in the attic. Letting ladder-line touch anything combustible can start a fire. Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Thu, 15 Nov 2012 13:22:55 +, hawley, charles j jr c-haw...@illinois.edu wrote: I use a 1:1 balun at 450 ohm ladder line to get thru the attic and then 4 inch open wire outside to the dipole. Chuck, KE9UW Lionel Trains, TCA, LCCA, LRRC aka Jack, BMW Motorcycles BMWMOA #224 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] on behalf of Brian Alsop [als...@nc.rr.com] Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 7:02 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] More KAT500 This seems so in many cases but it is very doublet length dependent. I ran one case in TLW with 45' of 450 ohm line that came out as 13 ohms. With a 4:1 balun you'd probably be dropping this further. High current and most likely not a match. The best suggestion is to model the antenna at height, get it's feedpoint impedances at bands of interest. Then go into a program like TLW with the 450 ohm line length and see what impedance results at the shack end. Adjusting 450 ohm length or doublet length may be required for an adequate compromise on the bands of interest. Without some analysis (or a proven design) it will be a crap shoot. 73 de Brian/K3KO On 11/15/2012 12:31, Jim Wiley wrote: Ed - According to Elecraft, the KAT500 can match 10:1 SWR at 500 watts, on any band 80 to 10 meters. It can also match 3:1 SWR at 1000 watts on those same bands. The 160 meter and 6 meter capabilities are a bit more limited, but it will still match a fairly wide range of loads. By inference, 10:1 SWR at 500 watts between 3 and 30 MHz could result in peak voltages in the range of 2250 volts and peak currents of 42 amperes RF (one or the other, not simultaneously). This is pretty impressive for a box that size. Using those voltages as limits, that indicates that the KAT500 could handle power levels of about 250 watts at a 14:1 SWR. Any more could result in damage. I would suggest replacing the 300-ohm line on the antenna with 450-ohm ladder line, and inserting a 4:1 balun between the antenna and the KAT500. I suspect that this will reduce the SWR excursions, and may get you inside the envelope for what the KAT500 can handle. A commonly used antenna is a doublet (dipole) fed with open wire, a 4:1 balun, and a coupler. Most installations use a length of RG-8 coaxial cable (typically 10 to 20 feet, but no longer than necessary) to get through the wall - or from the coupler to the balun immediately outside the building, then the open wire line connects to the balun at that point and continues to the antenna. 450-ohm ladder line is usually a better choice because it is designed for transmitting use, where 300-ohm line is usually TV lead-in and not particularly suited for use at higher power. Some transmitter rated 300 ohm line exists, and if you have that type, it may work for you. As with all open-wire type lines, keep the line at least 8 to 12 from metal objects if possible, more is better, and avoid abrupt right angle turns. - Jim, KL7CC On 11/15/2012 2:41 AM, Goss, Ed wrote: Hi Jim, Thanks for the info. I am at work now and unable to post back to the group, but I appreciate the explanation. For the low bands, I use a 135 ft inv vee center fed with 300 ohm line, with a 1:1 balun near the shack. When my KAT500 starts to tune itself, I am seeing high SWRs, such as 14:1. After the auto tune cycle, it's 1:1. Perhaps I should be concerned that even with 100 watts, there would be conditions that overstress KAT500 internal parts with this type of antenna, but I want to be very careful about not damaging the tuner. I'm not quite sure how a user would know these limits, or if the KAT500 protects itself in any way. Perhaps the KAT500 is meant to work with antennas that present a somewhat better match to start with, like a typical 80 meter dipole which is cut for CW but the user wants to use all the way up to 4.0 MHz... --Ed--- __ 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 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2221 / Virus Database: 2441/5394 - Release Date: 11/14/12 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2221 / Virus Database: 2441/5396 - Release Date: 11/15/12 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help:
Re: [Elecraft] With all the problems...
Thom, The K3 issues that you see on this reflector are here because issues can be brought here and resolved quickly. And I think if we could categorize all of them we would surely find that many of them are simple configuration issues or operator error. I love my K3 and, in my mind, there is no other company like Elecraft. And, no other reflector like this one. Dive on in. 73, Terry, W0FM -Original Message- From: Thom Durfee [mailto:p...@priest.com] Sent: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 7:09 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] With all the problems... people on this list with their K3's... I am having apprehension about ordering one. Thom WI8W __ 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: How to setup K3 with Signalink-USB ?
W3fpl K2VCO tapped out: If one doesn't do CW via DTR/RTS you can turn off the CONFIG PTT-KEY (set it to OFF-OFF). Then the boot process won't affect the K3. I finally got so annoyed by this that I got a WinKey USB. The computer-generated CW is cleaner, too. Do you have the K3 set to activate either keying or PTT from the DTR or RTS lines (CONFIG: PTT-KEY menu set to something other than OFF-OFF thanks Vic and Don .. I'd forgotten that I DID set that before I had the interface cable from K3 to SignaLink-USB. now set to OFF-OFF -- 73 KD7YZ Bob __ 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] OT: Open wire feeder cautions
I pass my ladder line through the shack wall with two large cone insulators that use 1/4 brass rods about 12 total length passing through the wall. At one point I saw erratic SWR readings on the tuner's SWR meter. Several days of chasing the problem determined that one or both of the rods was arcing to the tinfoil backing on the insulation inside the wall. Enlarging the through-the-wall holes and inserting small-diameter CPVC pipe over the rods fixed the problem. The pipes extend a bit beyond the wall on both sides and into the inside of the ceramic cones. Rose has a scar on her arm from when she was painting an outside wall years ago while I was on the air with a KW. (:-(( 73! Ken Kopp - K0PP -- Forwarded message -- From: N5GE li...@n5ge.com Date: Thu, Nov 15, 2012 at 8:00 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] More KAT500 To: hawley, charles j jr c-haw...@illinois.edu Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net I hope you have the ladder-line supported by fire-proof (ceramic) insulators in the attic. Letting ladder-line touch anything combustible can start a fire. Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member __ 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] Real-world battery operation
I am anticipating a very long distance backpacking trip this Spring (AT, Georgia to Maine) and am looking for real world info on operating times at the 5-watt level with internal 2500mAh AA's or other lightweight battery pack. I should be able to recharge completely via AC every week or so, with a small solar pack providing partial charges in between. Assuming 1 hour operating at 20 percent XMIT and 80 percent RX(set for minimum current draw) per day, how much operating time do you think is possible? Mode would be primarily SSB with some PSK31 via Android phone thrown in for grins. Please no in-depth calculations or wild guesses--if you have operated via internal or small, lightweight external batteries, how much time at what power levels have you been able to operate before rig shuts down? Many thanks, Steve __ 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] OT: Open wire feeder cautions
Ken, Very good insight...Thanks for sharing! Rose has a scar on her arm from when she was painting an outside wall years ago while I was on the air with a KW. AND YOU ARE STILL ALIVE, MARRIED, AND STILL HAVE A HAM STATION AFTER THAT?!?!?!?!?! If that happened to my wife, Trina, she would divorce, kill, and/or emasculate me, AND smash all of my equipment! 73, David KC9EHQ K1-4 sn 2051 K2/10 sn 7164 __ 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] Real-world battery operation
I'm long since being able to backpack so I don't have practical experience for answer. But I'm sure readers will want to know what radio will you be usinga K2?...or what? Rich K2CPE K2 #1102 - Original Message - From: Steve Michaels panamast...@gmail.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Thu, 15 Nov 2012 20:35:30 - (UTC) Subject: [Elecraft] Real-world battery operation I am anticipating a very long distance backpacking trip this Spring (AT, Georgia to Maine) and am looking for real world info on operating times at the 5-watt level with internal 2500mAh AA's or other lightweight battery pack. I should be able to recharge completely via AC every week or so, with a small solar pack providing partial charges in between. Assuming 1 hour operating at 20 percent XMIT and 80 percent RX(set for minimum current draw) per day, how much operating time do you think is possible? Mode would be primarily SSB with some PSK31 via Android phone thrown in for grins. Please no in-depth calculations or wild guesses--if you have operated via internal or small, lightweight external batteries, how much time at what power levels have you been able to operate before rig shuts down? Many thanks, Steve __ 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] More KAT500
It's supported by electric fence insulators. Sent from my iPad Chuck, KE9UW (Jack for BMW motorcycles) On Nov 15, 2012, at 2:00 PM, N5GE li...@n5ge.com wrote: I hope you have the ladder-line supported by fire-proof (ceramic) insulators in the attic. Letting ladder-line touch anything combustible can start a fire. Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Thu, 15 Nov 2012 13:22:55 +, hawley, charles j jr c-haw...@illinois.edu wrote: I use a 1:1 balun at 450 ohm ladder line to get thru the attic and then 4 inch open wire outside to the dipole. Chuck, KE9UW Lionel Trains, TCA, LCCA, LRRC aka Jack, BMW Motorcycles BMWMOA #224 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] on behalf of Brian Alsop [als...@nc.rr.com] Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 7:02 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] More KAT500 This seems so in many cases but it is very doublet length dependent. I ran one case in TLW with 45' of 450 ohm line that came out as 13 ohms. With a 4:1 balun you'd probably be dropping this further. High current and most likely not a match. The best suggestion is to model the antenna at height, get it's feedpoint impedances at bands of interest. Then go into a program like TLW with the 450 ohm line length and see what impedance results at the shack end. Adjusting 450 ohm length or doublet length may be required for an adequate compromise on the bands of interest. Without some analysis (or a proven design) it will be a crap shoot. 73 de Brian/K3KO On 11/15/2012 12:31, Jim Wiley wrote: Ed - According to Elecraft, the KAT500 can match 10:1 SWR at 500 watts, on any band 80 to 10 meters. It can also match 3:1 SWR at 1000 watts on those same bands. The 160 meter and 6 meter capabilities are a bit more limited, but it will still match a fairly wide range of loads. By inference, 10:1 SWR at 500 watts between 3 and 30 MHz could result in peak voltages in the range of 2250 volts and peak currents of 42 amperes RF (one or the other, not simultaneously). This is pretty impressive for a box that size. Using those voltages as limits, that indicates that the KAT500 could handle power levels of about 250 watts at a 14:1 SWR. Any more could result in damage. I would suggest replacing the 300-ohm line on the antenna with 450-ohm ladder line, and inserting a 4:1 balun between the antenna and the KAT500. I suspect that this will reduce the SWR excursions, and may get you inside the envelope for what the KAT500 can handle. A commonly used antenna is a doublet (dipole) fed with open wire, a 4:1 balun, and a coupler. Most installations use a length of RG-8 coaxial cable (typically 10 to 20 feet, but no longer than necessary) to get through the wall - or from the coupler to the balun immediately outside the building, then the open wire line connects to the balun at that point and continues to the antenna. 450-ohm ladder line is usually a better choice because it is designed for transmitting use, where 300-ohm line is usually TV lead-in and not particularly suited for use at higher power. Some transmitter rated 300 ohm line exists, and if you have that type, it may work for you. As with all open-wire type lines, keep the line at least 8 to 12 from metal objects if possible, more is better, and avoid abrupt right angle turns. - Jim, KL7CC On 11/15/2012 2:41 AM, Goss, Ed wrote: Hi Jim, Thanks for the info. I am at work now and unable to post back to the group, but I appreciate the explanation. For the low bands, I use a 135 ft inv vee center fed with 300 ohm line, with a 1:1 balun near the shack. When my KAT500 starts to tune itself, I am seeing high SWRs, such as 14:1. After the auto tune cycle, it's 1:1. Perhaps I should be concerned that even with 100 watts, there would be conditions that overstress KAT500 internal parts with this type of antenna, but I want to be very careful about not damaging the tuner. I'm not quite sure how a user would know these limits, or if the KAT500 protects itself in any way. Perhaps the KAT500 is meant to work with antennas that present a somewhat better match to start with, like a typical 80 meter dipole which is cut for CW but the user wants to use all the way up to 4.0 MHz... --Ed--- __ 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 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2221 / Virus Database: 2441/5394 - Release Date: 11/14/12 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG -
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Open wire feeder cautions
Mine pass thru the wall on ceramic insulators as well. They are insulated from the siding etc. Sent from my iPad Chuck, KE9UW (Jack for BMW motorcycles) On Nov 15, 2012, at 2:24 PM, Ken G Kopp kengk...@gmail.com wrote: I pass my ladder line through the shack wall with two large cone insulators that use 1/4 brass rods about 12 total length passing through the wall. At one point I saw erratic SWR readings on the tuner's SWR meter. Several days of chasing the problem determined that one or both of the rods was arcing to the tinfoil backing on the insulation inside the wall. Enlarging the through-the-wall holes and inserting small-diameter CPVC pipe over the rods fixed the problem. The pipes extend a bit beyond the wall on both sides and into the inside of the ceramic cones. Rose has a scar on her arm from when she was painting an outside wall years ago while I was on the air with a KW. (:-(( 73! Ken Kopp - K0PP -- Forwarded message -- From: N5GE li...@n5ge.com Date: Thu, Nov 15, 2012 at 8:00 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] More KAT500 To: hawley, charles j jr c-haw...@illinois.edu Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net I hope you have the ladder-line supported by fire-proof (ceramic) insulators in the attic. Letting ladder-line touch anything combustible can start a fire. Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member __ 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] For Sale: P3
Howdy Gang: I offer for sale a P3 I just recently traded for from another list member. It is in like new condition...not a mark on it...like it just came out of the box...as a matter of fact, the ham I traded it for bought it new from Elecraft in January of this year. I just don't use it much based on my operating style...very casual...no contests or DX chasing so I just don't make full use of it. Guess I'm getting a little long in the tooth (grin). I will ship and insure the P3 for $650. 73, Joe W2KJ I QRP, therefore I am __ 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] OT: Open wire feeder cautions
Long ago I used ceramic cone insulators too, but for decades I've used simple 1/4 acrylic tubes. They insure that nothing in the wall comes in contact with the feed line and eliminate the mechanical joints at either end of the feed-through (I solder the feed line connections). A small 1/4 hole accommodates each tube and extend about 1/2 out of both sides of the wall. A few wraps of tape around the ends keep them from sliding out of place. They are not very visible either. I've used acrylic in a number of very high RF voltage insulator applications with no sign of failure. There's a reason why we put fences around commercial transmitting antennas and take care to avoid touching antennas on ships! RF burns are terribly painful. They're deep and they're nasty. Many of us O.T.s learned about them using a pencil to draw an RF arc from the plate cap of a transmitting tube for fun :-) I can still remember the deep, throbbing pain from a little black burn that lasted for days right at the spot where the metal eraser ferrule was touching my skin the very LAST time I did that, Hi! 73, Ron AC7AC __ 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 Firmware 4.58 - Problem using K144XV
I am using my K3 with the internal transverter K144XV. Today I installed the (beta) Firmware 4.58. My problem: Entering any 2m- QRG, e.g. 144.300 by pushing on the front panel FREQ ENT 1 4 4 . 3 0 0 ENTER (AFX) results in changing the K3 to 180.300 MHz e.g. 145.525 results in 181.525 MHz ... Always exactly 36 MHz too much! Also when entering QRGs by my contesting software via RS232... The only way to activate 2m is using the bandswitch-button - then my K3 starts with 144.000 MHz. Any changing between HF-Bands is correct. Am I doing something wrong or is it a bug of the new BETA? 73 Lothar, DJ8EW __ 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: Reprogramming buttons
the K3 firmware can reprogram the DVK button action. If the config menu is open and you press a function key to send a DVK message, the voice message button is over-written with the config menu item. Yep, it does that. How do you correct it if you did it by accident? How do you return the buttons to their normal functions. -- Dick - K4XU __ 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: Reprogramming buttons
Hi Dick, Switch to CW mode tap REC and then tap the buffer you want to restore and then tap REC again. Good luck, Cheers and 73, Fred KE7X The Elecraft K3: Design, Configuration and Operation (soon to be Second Edition) www.ke7x.com -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Dick Frey Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 4:39 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3: Reprogramming buttons the K3 firmware can reprogram the DVK button action. If the config menu is open and you press a function key to send a DVK message, the voice message button is over-written with the config menu item. Yep, it does that. How do you correct it if you did it by accident? How do you return the buttons to their normal functions. -- Dick - K4XU __ 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] OT: Open wire feeder cautions
Rose is an absolute gem! -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David Dietrich Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 2:01 PM To: Ken G Kopp; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Open wire feeder cautions Ken, Very good insight...Thanks for sharing! Rose has a scar on her arm from when she was painting an outside wall years ago while I was on the air with a KW. AND YOU ARE STILL ALIVE, MARRIED, AND STILL HAVE A HAM STATION AFTER THAT?!?!?!?!?! If that happened to my wife, Trina, she would divorce, kill, and/or emasculate me, AND smash all of my equipment! 73, David KC9EHQ K1-4 sn 2051 K2/10 sn 7164 __ 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] With all the problems...
When I was first licensed I bought a then brand new Kenwood 820S from an Amateur Radio dealer in CT, it was boxed, never opened from Kenwood. At the same time I ordered all the accessories to go with it. Within a month I started having display issues and some of the LED display would be dark. It started shifting in frequency and I took it to the place I bought it and asked for repair. They said they stopped selling Kenwood Amateur gear shortly after I bought it. I took it to a local repair shop and the tech said the solder connections were cold soldered and it should be returned for a replacement. I contacted Kenwood in CA and told them what had happened and they told me I had bought it from a currently unauthorized dealer. I explained it was new, they were a dealer at that time and it needed to be repaired. Kenwood said I could send it to them but I would be responsible for the full cost of repair. I asked a Japanese friend to write a letter to Kenwood in Japan telling them of the situation and asking for help. I never heard back. That is my own personal experience with Kenwood and I have never bought another Kenwood anything. I say that here because the kind of attention you get with Elecraft assistance and service is the exact opposite of my experience with Kenwood. Go with the Elecraft rig of your choice and you will be much more than satisfied. Gary KA1J __ 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 Beta Firmware Release: Improved CW text decode
Does the latest beta version still include the ability to use the FM filter to transmit on AM? By the way, the new CW decoder works great. 73, Art WB8ENE -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Beta-Firmware-Rev-3-57-Synchronous-AM-Detection-AM-S-misc-improvements-tp3983997p7565738.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] With all the problems... - a different marketing model
Hello Gary, One of the competitive edge of Elecraft is that it has a group of loyal customers. As a result, elecraft can market their products in advance and place them at a relatively 'pre-mature' stage. The group of loyal customers are in fact a group of 'field testers' in some way. These 'field testers' keep on reporting problems to Elecraft who keep on refining their products. For this marketing model, elecraft can save some costs in really hard rocking their products in the field. Since the products can come out earlier, they can recover their initial RD much quicker. Other amateur radio manufacturers do not have this advantage because their sales volumes are far higher and not soley concentrate on ham radio products so that direct communication between the business owner with the users seems not practical. Elecrafters seem enjoying the way of how elecraft is doing business. They don't mind getting their products at a relatively 'pre-mature' stage but enjoy the full liberaty to talk to Elecraft direct and refine their products later. I am afraid some of my words above could be offensive (apologies here!) but the Elecraft's marketing model seems very successful and to be a win-win solution between elecraft and his customers. TNX 73, Johnny VR2XMC 寄件人︰ Gary Smith g...@ka1j.com 收件人︰ Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 傳送日期︰ 2012年11月16日 (週五) 9:02 AM 主題︰ Re: [Elecraft] With all the problems... When I was first licensed I bought a then brand new Kenwood 820S from an Amateur Radio dealer in CT, it was boxed, never opened from Kenwood. At the same time I ordered all the accessories to go with it. Within a month I started having display issues and some of the LED display would be dark. It started shifting in frequency and I took it to the place I bought it and asked for repair. They said they stopped selling Kenwood Amateur gear shortly after I bought it. I took it to a local repair shop and the tech said the solder connections were cold soldered and it should be returned for a replacement. I contacted Kenwood in CA and told them what had happened and they told me I had bought it from a currently unauthorized dealer. I explained it was new, they were a dealer at that time and it needed to be repaired. Kenwood said I could send it to them but I would be responsible for the full cost of repair. I asked a Japanese friend to write a letter to Kenwood in Japan telling them of the situation and asking for help. I never heard back. That is my own personal experience with Kenwood and I have never bought another Kenwood anything. I say that here because the kind of attention you get with Elecraft assistance and service is the exact opposite of my experience with Kenwood. Go with the Elecraft rig of your choice and you will be much more than satisfied. Gary KA1J __ 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 Beta Firmware Release: Improved CW text decode
Yes. 73, Wayne N6KR On Nov 15, 2012, at 5:16 PM, WB8ENE wrote: Does the latest beta version still include the ability to use the FM filter to transmit on AM? By the way, the new CW decoder works great. 73, Art WB8ENE -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-Beta-Firmware-Rev-3-57-Synchronous-AM-Detection-AM-S-misc-improvements-tp3983997p7565738.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
Seems there was no advantage to being the 2nd person to order a KAT500 at Dayton - kit orders received after mine are being shipped but then my Dad always told me life wasn't fair! He was right. Cary, K4TM Lynchburg VA Sent from my iPhone in Lynchburg VA. __ 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
Hi Cary, We have not shipped any KAT500 kit orders yet (outside of a few field test units). Only the assembled KAT500s have been shipping. We have now finished field testing the KAT500 kit assembly procedure and modifying the assembly manual based on the assembler feedback. We will receive the manuals from the printer Monday and will begin shipping the KAT500 kits either Monday or Tuesday. We started emailing the first customers today to confirm their delivery information on the kit orders. since you were an early order email sa...@elecraft.com if you do not hear from us soon. 73, Eric --- www.elecraft.com On 11/15/2012 5:47 PM, Hunsdon Cary III wrote: Seems there was no advantage to being the 2nd person to order a KAT500 at Dayton - kit orders received after mine are being shipped but then my Dad always told me life wasn't fair! He was right. Cary, K4TM Lynchburg VA __ 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] Real-world battery operation
Hi Steve, An AT thru-hike is a gruelling exercise. The last thing you're going to want to do at the end of a 20-mile day is play radio. You're also going to quickly decide that there are far more important things that could be taking up the space and weight in your pack. If you're still determined to pack a radio, at least leave the solar panel at home -- it just ain't worth it. I would be surprised if the AA's didn't last you a week. You didn't specify what radio you want to use, but I'll assume it's a KX3. On a recent backpacking trip I operated SSB at *10* watts for about 5 hrs and when I returned home found that I still had a 60% charge on my 4200 mAh LiFePO4 battery. Good luck with your hike! Mark AI4BJ __ 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] ESSB and FM Filter selection for AM Transmit
Wayne, When I enable the FM filter for AM Transmit I get a ERR TXF indication when trying to transmit on SSB with ESSB enabled. Will there be a fix for this? Thank you, Michael n2zdb __ 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] ESSB and FM Filter
Michael, We allow the FM filter to be use for AM transmit, now, but not for ESSB transmit. The filter is too wide for this purpose. 73, Wayne N6KR Wayne, When I enable the FM filter for AM Transmit I get a ERR TXF indication when trying to transmit on SSB with ESSB enabled. Will there be a fix for this? Thank you, Michael n2zdb __ 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] ESSB and FM Filter
Wayne, Have you actually measured the output when using the FM filter for ESSB transmit? I'd have thought with the excellent design of the K3, the DSP should provide enough bounding. 73, Thomas M0TRN On 15 November 2012 18:57, Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com wrote: Michael, We allow the FM filter to be use for AM transmit, now, but not for ESSB transmit. The filter is too wide for this purpose. 73, Wayne N6KR Wayne, When I enable the FM filter for AM Transmit I get a ERR TXF indication when trying to transmit on SSB with ESSB enabled. Will there be a fix for this? Thank you, Michael n2zdb __ 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] With all the problems...
I bought a used K2/10 with battery for portability reasons, and have frequently used it as a sniffer and walk around radio. I went nuts using the controls on it at first until one day it sorta sunk in, like the lights going on, from a headache to whatwasiupsetabout. It happened quicker than learning to use my FT1000MP. That was tough learning something more modern than my FT101ZD and Heath SB300/400 of antiquity. I did all the K2 A to B board mods, which was actually fun. Reliving my Heathkit and Knight-kit experiences. Added DSP in the process, got all the alignment spot on and that K2 became one very fine RX radio. After those, I was onto a K3 the first time I saw one, in the first couple hours of a DX contest at NY4A. Struggled for the first night with an Orion out there, but got that one too. Given the history above, the K3 was the easiest to use first time radio for me since way back in the analogs. I never had any trouble using an R390A, a Collins S line, or a 75A3/4. I will never forget the surprise of listening to the K3 on 40 meters on NY4A's humongous five element 178' boom quad fixed on EU, and realizing that the noise down at the bottom was now more like a hiss, that in the past the bottom noise had been made by the FT1000MP, and the bottom layer of stations was no longer the basement noodle antenna QRP crowd from DL and OK, which were almost all now in the clear, and in their place was a nearly inexhaustible string of 100 watt low dipole Russians. I would have stayed with the radio if it was slapping me with a stick. Koolaid? With those kinds of results, who needs Koolaid. You need Koolaid when you've bought it, the results aren't there, and you can't bear to admit you've paid a lot of money for a dud. The only reason there's a Yaesu 5000 with a good front end, is them getting their b*tt kicked by the rush to Elecraft with undeniable results, endless word of mouth propagation of same, and half the radios at the Radiosport site coming up K3. And the silly string of excuses following why there should be so many K3's. Yakencom folks could have easily installed the principles demonstrated in the early Orion radios. They could have bought a K2. Wasn't until they got their b*tts stomped they even bothered to look at the problem. Too bad that JA1MP was lost to SK so early on. I'm sure he was turning in his grave over his beloved company taking such a slaggard path to front end equality. Of course that let Elecraft in the door, so I can't commiserate too much :) I still use my K2. Problems? Clearly someone has never been stuck with a broken Yakencom radio with NO hope of it ever being upgraded, or even just repaired. I will SO take what I have with Elecraft, even if it DOES take them a year plus longer to get their KAT500 out. Now I'm waiting for their outdoor sealed remote version of same. That's the one I need. And I'll wait around for it, unless The Shadow tells me they're not going to do it. Koolaid? What Koolaid. 73, Guy. On Thu, Nov 15, 2012 at 8:02 PM, Gary Smith g...@ka1j.com wrote: When I was first licensed I bought a then brand new Kenwood 820S from an Amateur Radio dealer in CT, it was boxed, never opened from Kenwood. At the same time I ordered all the accessories to go with it. Within a month I started having display issues and some of the LED display would be dark. It started shifting in frequency and I took it to the place I bought it and asked for repair. They said they stopped selling Kenwood Amateur gear shortly after I bought it. I took it to a local repair shop and the tech said the solder connections were cold soldered and it should be returned for a replacement. I contacted Kenwood in CA and told them what had happened and they told me I had bought it from a currently unauthorized dealer. I explained it was new, they were a dealer at that time and it needed to be repaired. Kenwood said I could send it to them but I would be responsible for the full cost of repair. I asked a Japanese friend to write a letter to Kenwood in Japan telling them of the situation and asking for help. I never heard back. That is my own personal experience with Kenwood and I have never bought another Kenwood anything. I say that here because the kind of attention you get with Elecraft assistance and service is the exact opposite of my experience with Kenwood. Go with the Elecraft rig of your choice and you will be much more than satisfied. Gary KA1J __ 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:
[Elecraft] [K2] For sale.
Hello, I am selling my K2, with the automatic tuner and SSB card installed. Everything works great. It was well built and aligned. $800 firm. Free shipping. Value new is $1030. It has been barely used. Selling to buy a KX3. Payment via Paypal. I'll include a used microphone to anyone buying from the reflector.. By the way I also have an Icom IC-271A 2m FM/SSB with built-in power supply for sale: $270 + actual shipping. The only issue with it is the power button that sometimes does not work. I leave it on and plug-in/unplug. The switch needed costs $30 and is available from Icom, I do have the part number. Both will go on Ebay this Saturday, here is your chance to snatch either before that.. Gil. -- PGP Key: http://keskydee.com/gil.asc __ 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 Firmware 4.58 - Problem using K144XV
I too now have this problem on my K3 with the K144XV installed using Beta 4.58. Michael n2zdb [Elecraft] K3 Firmware 4.58 - Problem using K144XV Lothar Sack Thu, 15 Nov 2012 14:59:08 -0800 I am using my K3 with the internal transverter K144XV. Today I installed the (beta) Firmware 4.58. My problem: Entering any 2m- QRG, e.g. 144.300 by pushing on the front panel FREQ ENT 1 4 4 . 3 0 0 ENTER (AFX) results in changing the K3 to 180.300 MHz e.g. 145.525 results in 181.525 MHz ... Always exactly 36 MHz too much! Also when entering QRGs by my contesting software via RS232... The only way to activate 2m is using the bandswitch-button - then my K3 starts with 144.000 MHz. Any changing between HF-Bands is correct. Am I doing something wrong or is it a bug of the new BETA? 73 Lothar, DJ8EW __ 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] ESSB and FM Filter
Wayne is right to restrict the use of the FM filter to non-ESSB transmit. Too many hi-fi operators on 20 meters will be tempted to transmit 13 kHz wide signals. No fix is necessary, in my opinion. 73, Scott, N9AA On 11/15/12 10:00 PM, Thomas Horsten wrote: Wayne, Have you actually measured the output when using the FM filter for ESSB transmit? I'd have thought with the excellent design of the K3, the DSP should provide enough bounding. 73, Thomas M0TRN __ 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] With all the problems...
Way back in the early 1960's I needed to do some repairs to a National HRO50 receiver I had been given by a great mentor, Field Gray - W6HUA (Jack Webb's art director on the old Dragnet TV police dramas). I needed a schematic so I wrote National asking if they had a manual for the receiver even though it was built 20 years previously. Weeks went by and then, one day I got a big envelope in the mail. It was an original Owner's manual for the HRO with a hand-written note inside from a secretary explaining that she was very sorry for the delay but she had spent many hours digging through old files to find the manual. She hoped it had everything I needed and, of course, no charge. It did. The next company I ran into with customer support like that was Elecraft in 2000. 73, Ron AC7AC __ 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] With all the problems...
I hope that you had the manners to send her a Thank You, then. I suspect you did. We all had manners back then, seems like. Today, we have Elecraft to thank for a very professional interface and working relationship, and we all should reciprocate with 1960's manners. It's a pretty easy habit to fall back into. I know it's appreciated when we do. 73, matt W6NIA On Thu, 15 Nov 2012 20:12:40 -0800, you wrote: Way back in the early 1960's I needed to do some repairs to a National HRO50 receiver I had been given by a great mentor, Field Gray - W6HUA (Jack Webb's art director on the old Dragnet TV police dramas). I needed a schematic so I wrote National asking if they had a manual for the receiver even though it was built 20 years previously. Weeks went by and then, one day I got a big envelope in the mail. It was an original Owner's manual for the HRO with a hand-written note inside from a secretary explaining that she was very sorry for the delay but she had spent many hours digging through old files to find the manual. She hoped it had everything I needed and, of course, no charge. It did. The next company I ran into with customer support like that was Elecraft in 2000. 73, Ron AC7AC __ 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] ESSB and FM Filter
Too many hi-fi operators on 20 meters will be tempted to transmit 13 kHz wide signals. It is not possible to transmit a 13 KHz wide signal as the DSP will not generate ESSB more than 4 KHz wide (CONFIG:TX ESSB). No fix is necessary, in my opinion. The phase noise pedestal with the 13 KHz filter in ESSB (define the filter as 6 KHz) is no worse than the typical upconversion rig. Opposite sideband suppression is provided in the modulation process (DSP) so there is no need to restrict ESSB to the 6 KHz filter 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 11/15/2012 10:45 PM, Scott Manthe wrote: Wayne is right to restrict the use of the FM filter to non-ESSB transmit. Too many hi-fi operators on 20 meters will be tempted to transmit 13 kHz wide signals. No fix is necessary, in my opinion. 73, Scott, N9AA On 11/15/12 10:00 PM, Thomas Horsten wrote: Wayne, Have you actually measured the output when using the FM filter for ESSB transmit? I'd have thought with the excellent design of the K3, the DSP should provide enough bounding. 73, Thomas M0TRN __ 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
My factory assembled KAT500 s/n 0093 arrived here yesterday. I am yet to connect it up but it looks very nice indeed. Barry VK2BJ __ 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] More KAT500
If they are the kind sold by Lowes, Home Depot or Tractor Supply, they may not catch fire, but may melt. Ceramic is best for avoiding fire caused by heat... I have seen Alpha Delta insulators that are plastic catch fire and melt at the ends of half sloper's fed with RG213 and 9913. Regards, Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Thu, 15 Nov 2012 21:17:41 +, hawley, charles j jr c-haw...@illinois.edu wrote: It's supported by electric fence insulators. Sent from my iPad Chuck, KE9UW (Jack for BMW motorcycles) On Nov 15, 2012, at 2:00 PM, N5GE li...@n5ge.com wrote: I hope you have the ladder-line supported by fire-proof (ceramic) insulators in the attic. Letting ladder-line touch anything combustible can start a fire. Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Thu, 15 Nov 2012 13:22:55 +, hawley, charles j jr c-haw...@illinois.edu wrote: I use a 1:1 balun at 450 ohm ladder line to get thru the attic and then 4 inch open wire outside to the dipole. Chuck, KE9UW Lionel Trains, TCA, LCCA, LRRC aka Jack, BMW Motorcycles BMWMOA #224 From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] on behalf of Brian Alsop [als...@nc.rr.com] Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 7:02 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] More KAT500 This seems so in many cases but it is very doublet length dependent. I ran one case in TLW with 45' of 450 ohm line that came out as 13 ohms. With a 4:1 balun you'd probably be dropping this further. High current and most likely not a match. The best suggestion is to model the antenna at height, get it's feedpoint impedances at bands of interest. Then go into a program like TLW with the 450 ohm line length and see what impedance results at the shack end. Adjusting 450 ohm length or doublet length may be required for an adequate compromise on the bands of interest. Without some analysis (or a proven design) it will be a crap shoot. 73 de Brian/K3KO On 11/15/2012 12:31, Jim Wiley wrote: Ed - According to Elecraft, the KAT500 can match 10:1 SWR at 500 watts, on any band 80 to 10 meters. It can also match 3:1 SWR at 1000 watts on those same bands. The 160 meter and 6 meter capabilities are a bit more limited, but it will still match a fairly wide range of loads. By inference, 10:1 SWR at 500 watts between 3 and 30 MHz could result in peak voltages in the range of 2250 volts and peak currents of 42 amperes RF (one or the other, not simultaneously). This is pretty impressive for a box that size. Using those voltages as limits, that indicates that the KAT500 could handle power levels of about 250 watts at a 14:1 SWR. Any more could result in damage. I would suggest replacing the 300-ohm line on the antenna with 450-ohm ladder line, and inserting a 4:1 balun between the antenna and the KAT500. I suspect that this will reduce the SWR excursions, and may get you inside the envelope for what the KAT500 can handle. A commonly used antenna is a doublet (dipole) fed with open wire, a 4:1 balun, and a coupler. Most installations use a length of RG-8 coaxial cable (typically 10 to 20 feet, but no longer than necessary) to get through the wall - or from the coupler to the balun immediately outside the building, then the open wire line connects to the balun at that point and continues to the antenna. 450-ohm ladder line is usually a better choice because it is designed for transmitting use, where 300-ohm line is usually TV lead-in and not particularly suited for use at higher power. Some transmitter rated 300 ohm line exists, and if you have that type, it may work for you. As with all open-wire type lines, keep the line at least 8 to 12 from metal objects if possible, more is better, and avoid abrupt right angle turns. - Jim, KL7CC On 11/15/2012 2:41 AM, Goss, Ed wrote: Hi Jim, Thanks for the info. I am at work now and unable to post back to the group, but I appreciate the explanation. For the low bands, I use a 135 ft inv vee center fed with 300 ohm line, with a 1:1 balun near the shack. When my KAT500 starts to tune itself, I am seeing high SWRs, such as 14:1. After the auto tune cycle, it's 1:1. Perhaps I should be concerned that even with 100 watts, there would be conditions that overstress KAT500 internal parts with this type of antenna, but I want to be very careful about not damaging the tuner. I'm not quite sure how a user would know these limits, or if the KAT500 protects itself in any way. Perhaps the KAT500 is meant to work with antennas that present a somewhat better match to start with, like a typical 80 meter dipole which is cut for CW but the user wants to use all the way up to 4.0 MHz... --Ed--- __ Elecraft mailing list Home:
Re: [Elecraft] K3 Firmware 4.58 - Problem using K144XV
I also have this problem... 73, Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member On Thu, 15 Nov 2012 22:30:17 -0500 (EST), n2...@aol.com wrote: I too now have this problem on my K3 with the K144XV installed using Beta 4.58. Michael n2zdb [Elecraft] K3 Firmware 4.58 - Problem using K144XV Lothar Sack Thu, 15 Nov 2012 14:59:08 -0800 I am using my K3 with the internal transverter K144XV. Today I installed the (beta) Firmware 4.58. My problem: Entering any 2m- QRG, e.g. 144.300 by pushing on the front panel FREQ ENT 1 4 4 . 3 0 0 ENTER (AFX) results in changing the K3 to 180.300 MHz e.g. 145.525 results in 181.525 MHz ... Always exactly 36 MHz too much! Also when entering QRGs by my contesting software via RS232... The only way to activate 2m is using the bandswitch-button - then my K3 starts with 144.000 MHz. Any changing between HF-Bands is correct. Am I doing something wrong or is it a bug of the new BETA? 73 Lothar, DJ8EW __ 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] K3 will not display decoded CW
I think that I have gotten my K3 in a funny mode somehow. It will not display decoded CW in the VFO B area. I turned on the TEXT DECODE and adjusted the threshold as described in the manual. The T is displayed in the lower right corner of the display. I can tap the DISP key and see the clock and other setting but no CW decode is displayed. I have the latest firmware installed. This feature used to work but I haven't used it for a while. Any ideas? 73, - Craig, AE6RR __ 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 will not display decoded CW
BTW my firmware is 04.51 which the utility says is the latest. 73, - Craig, AE6RR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Craig - AE6RR Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2012 11:50 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3 will not display decoded CW I think that I have gotten my K3 in a funny mode somehow. It will not display decoded CW in the VFO B area. I turned on the TEXT DECODE and adjusted the threshold as described in the manual. The T is displayed in the lower right corner of the display. I can tap the DISP key and see the clock and other setting but no CW decode is displayed. I have the latest firmware installed. This feature used to work but I haven't used it for a while. Any ideas? 73, - Craig, AE6RR __ 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
