Re: [Elecraft] P3 waterfall legend?
Hi Gary, The signal you are referring to is a STANAG 4285 military transmission from Turkey. The curly things you see in the spectrum is in fact selective fading in the sent spectrum, which is roughly 10 kHz wide. quote 10.1102 MHz-USB-Izmir, Turkey Turkish Navy - STANAG 4285 unquote from: http://qrg.globaltuners.com/?q=STANAG%204285o=qthm=0m=1 The RTTY on 10.101 is DDK9, A German Meteo service sending SYNOP to (probably just a handful now, I suppose...) ships. Germany seems to have enough money to maintain a 10 kW transmitter active 24/24 for ancient services. 73, Peter Op 2014-02-19 21:22 schreef Gary Smith: but next to it around 10.112 is another much larger signal and it takes a lot of bandwidth. __ 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] Noise, RFI ?
PLT/PLA and something (Smart TV?) using it to do an update? http://www.ban-plt.org.uk/what.php What it is http://www.ban-plt.org.uk/tests.php Some EMC test results. Graphic! Lots of other good info on that site. No affiliation whatosever. 73. Dave G0WBX. --- Original Message --- From: Phil Hystad phys...@mac.com Subject: [Elecraft] Noise, RFI ? Using my K3 I was trying to pick up a ZL2 station (New Zealand) around 18.08 MHz this morning (about 9:50 AM PST) when this huge noise blanketed everything out. It was about 30/9 and absolutely solid across the spectrum shown on the P3. Using my KPA500, I switched to the 20 meter band -- same noise, same level, same broadband impact. I determined that the noise was from roughly 1400 KHz all the way up to 28.05 MHz. All about 30/9. About the time that I finished checking this full MF/HF spectrum of noise it switched off. Then, it switched on, and stayed on for about 5 seconds, then off again. I turned on my Icom R75. The next time the noise came on I checked it with the R75 and the same noise, same 30/9 level, same broad across the bands. Obviously man-made or under man control as it switched on and off and was on for various periods of time. This noise seems to be close, like generated in the neighborhood someplace. Anyone have ideas of the cause. You noise experts (Jim?) should have ideas. I was thinking maybe an arc welding machine but that is just a wild guess. It sure seems to be something that can be switched on and off. It is not periodic in that the on/off switching is at varying intervals. The longest on period is about one minute, the shortest on period about 2 seconds. And, it has been quiet for the last 10 minutes or so. Thanks for your help. 73, phil, K7PEH __ 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] Please test KPA500 rev. 1.38 if you get a chance
I'm good with 1.38 also. - Chuck, KE9UW -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Please-test-KPA500-rev-1-38-if-you-get-a-chance-tp7584382p7584480.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] Noise, RFI ?
On 2/19/2014 7:48 PM, Fred Jensen wrote: My neighbors with the PTV are very busy, gone a lot, and while he understands what his TV does to my reception, I acknowledge his right to have that TV. He has a right to HAVE it, but not to cause interference to you when he turns it on. Yes, Part 15, combined with the current state of FCC funding is a conundrum. The FCC has Rules, but not the staff to enforce them. Last night, I heard the FCC District Chief of the San Francisco office speak to a local ARES group about inspections. His advice in response to questions about resolving noise of the sort all of us are experiencing was next to useless. One of the most illuminating statements was off script, in response to a question. Are you doing a lot more inspections now than 27 years ago when you started working for the FCC? No, he replied, far fewer. When he started there were 400 field inspectors nationwide. Now there are 100. Thank you, small government. As a direct response to Phil's question, I'd look for a motor in some appliance that runs for a period and stops. I sleep with headphones listening to the radio. My XYL often arises earlier than I do, and when she does, I hear our coffee grinder making coffee. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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 with erratic QSK and CW Delay
My K3 has always had erratic QSK. I asked Elecraft to check this out when the K3 was returned to Elecraft on another repair issue and the Tech said the QSK checked out fine. I don't doubt the Tech's word as he was even nice enough to phone me while he was working on the radio. So crazy as it seems, the K3's QSK works while in California... but it does not work when it gets home to Florida! Here's the issues: QSK: The QSK will often work when the radio is cold and first turned on. But after the first or second transmission, the QSK quits working, and acts like it's in semi-break-in. Seldom will the QSK ever work again until the radio is powered off. Therefore, I've given up on QSK and operate semi-breakin. SEMI-BREAKIN: Until recently, semi-breakin worked fine and would quickly return to receive as it should with the DELAY set at 0. But today it's acting up as there's a substantial delay after the last CW character is sent before it returns to receive. I'd estimate a half second delay before it returns to receive. This issue is the same whether the VOX is on or off and the same with the QSK on or off. I did double check the Delay setting and it is set to ). (zero) I'm sure you will agree that trying to run stations in a contest with a half second delay before returning to receive is a horrible experience. Question: Are there any settings besides DELAY that can effect how long it takes the K3 to return to receive after transmitting the last CW character? Perhaps a Menu setting needs changing? Thanks 73, Dick- K9OM __ 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 with erratic QSK and CW Delay
First, are you using any auxiliary devices connected to PTT? If so, disconnect all the 'interfaces', etc., and try it just with a paddle. Try it with a dummy load to rule out RF as a problem. Or even in TX TEST mode. I can't think of any menu parameters that would cause this. On 2/20/2014 9:10 AM, r...@aol.com wrote: My K3 has always had erratic QSK. I asked Elecraft to check this out when the K3 was returned to Elecraft on another repair issue and the Tech said the QSK checked out fine. I don't doubt the Tech's word as he was even nice enough to phone me while he was working on the radio. So crazy as it seems, the K3's QSK works while in California... but it does not work when it gets home to Florida! Here's the issues: QSK: The QSK will often work when the radio is cold and first turned on. But after the first or second transmission, the QSK quits working, and acts like it's in semi-break-in. Seldom will the QSK ever work again until the radio is powered off. Therefore, I've given up on QSK and operate semi-breakin. SEMI-BREAKIN: Until recently, semi-breakin worked fine and would quickly return to receive as it should with the DELAY set at 0. But today it's acting up as there's a substantial delay after the last CW character is sent before it returns to receive. I'd estimate a half second delay before it returns to receive. This issue is the same whether the VOX is on or off and the same with the QSK on or off. I did double check the Delay setting and it is set to ). (zero) I'm sure you will agree that trying to run stations in a contest with a half second delay before returning to receive is a horrible experience. Question: Are there any settings besides DELAY that can effect how long it takes the K3 to return to receive after transmitting the last CW character? Perhaps a Menu setting needs changing? Thanks 73, Dick- K9OM -- 73, 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] Noise, RFI ?
Jim (and others)... From all the suggestions of the RFI, these are those that rank on the top of the list but the list below is not ordered in any way. 1. Some tool or machine operated by a neighbor or maybe even a construction/contractor guy working at a neighbor's house (really fits the use pattern of this interference). Such ideas include electric arc welder. 2. Nearby large Hospital Medical center with the typical surrounding medical offices including several imaging offices. The fact that I have never heard this interference before discounts this in my opinion. 3. HV power line arc'ing or interference of some sort (there are HV towers and power lines about 500 yards from my QTH although never have I had any interference from them that I know of. This RFI lasted for about 10 or 11 minutes and it has never repeated. During that 10 or 11 minutes it demonstrated a very much turned on and then turned off behavior with differing intervals. I am certain it was not in my house as I was the only one home at the time and everything in the house was turned off except for my own den/radio-shack/mancave/office where I was listening for weak DX in the CW zone of lower part of 10 meters. Even though I am in a suburban location, I am blessed with virtually no RFI. It occurs rarely but never long term (meaning more than a few hours at most). I did have RFI regularly from wall warts and a few other electronic gadgets but I have since (years ago) gotten rid of those. As far as I know, there are no known noisy plasma TVs in the area. A neighbor once asked what kind of HDTV to get and I told him specifically: Samsung LED and stay away from Plasma TVs. I own a Samsung LED. I do have one noise generator which is only a problem when my wife uses it -- that is our treadmill. When I am using it though, the noise is not a problem (at least not a problem to me). In the years I have been here and operating, I have only caused two incidents of RFI into next-door neighbor's equipment. Next door neighbors phones (years ago) and I put filters on the their phone lines and that fixed their problem. And, my other next door neighbor I have gotten into the speakers once when operating KW+ and CW on 20 meters (which is very rare for me). I don't operate at more than 500 watts at most these days and even that is rare. Haven't heard him complain in a number of years. K3/P3 currently sitting on 14.012 MHz and it is very quiet -- a few CW stations but the background noise level is very quiet this morning. 73, phil, K7PEH On Feb 20, 2014, at 9:05 AM, Jim Brown j...@audiosystemsgroup.com wrote: On 2/19/2014 7:48 PM, Fred Jensen wrote: My neighbors with the PTV are very busy, gone a lot, and while he understands what his TV does to my reception, I acknowledge his right to have that TV. He has a right to HAVE it, but not to cause interference to you when he turns it on. Yes, Part 15, combined with the current state of FCC funding is a conundrum. The FCC has Rules, but not the staff to enforce them. Last night, I heard the FCC District Chief of the San Francisco office speak to a local ARES group about inspections. His advice in response to questions about resolving noise of the sort all of us are experiencing was next to useless. One of the most illuminating statements was off script, in response to a question. Are you doing a lot more inspections now than 27 years ago when you started working for the FCC? No, he replied, far fewer. When he started there were 400 field inspectors nationwide. Now there are 100. Thank you, small government. As a direct response to Phil's question, I'd look for a motor in some appliance that runs for a period and stops. I sleep with headphones listening to the radio. My XYL often arises earlier than I do, and when she does, I hear our coffee grinder making coffee. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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 with erratic QSK and CW Delay
Dick, I also would suggest removing all cables except the paddles and connecting a dummy load as a test. One more thing to try on the delay situation is to set the delay somewhere in the 2 to 4 range rather than zero. My reason for that is to potentially identify a problem where the bits get mixed up and the delay value tries to go 'negative'. With an 8 bit number, the next 'lower' value than zero is 255, which is really a very high number. If you find something like that happening, the problem may RF in the Shack, and the cure will be found with good common mode chokes on your feedlines. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/20/2014 12:10 PM, r...@aol.com wrote: My K3 has always had erratic QSK. I asked Elecraft to check this out when the K3 was returned to Elecraft on another repair issue and the Tech said the QSK checked out fine. I don't doubt the Tech's word as he was even nice enough to phone me while he was working on the radio. So crazy as it seems, the K3's QSK works while in California... but it does not work when it gets home to Florida! Here's the issues: QSK: The QSK will often work when the radio is cold and first turned on. But after the first or second transmission, the QSK quits working, and acts like it's in semi-break-in. Seldom will the QSK ever work again until the radio is powered off. Therefore, I've given up on QSK and operate semi-breakin. SEMI-BREAKIN: Until recently, semi-breakin worked fine and would quickly return to receive as it should with the DELAY set at 0. But today it's acting up as there's a substantial delay after the last CW character is sent before it returns to receive. I'd estimate a half second delay before it returns to receive. This issue is the same whether the VOX is on or off and the same with the QSK on or off. I did double check the Delay setting and it is set to ). (zero) I'm sure you will agree that trying to run stations in a contest with a half second delay before returning to receive is a horrible experience. Question: Are there any settings besides DELAY that can effect how long it takes the K3 to return to receive after transmitting the last CW character? Perhaps a Menu setting needs changing? Thanks 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] Win4K3Suite V1.45 now supports the KXPA100 for the KX3, LP-PAN, the SotfRock II Lite and the MicroHam Router
Version 1.45 of Win4K3Suite now has a number of major additions and improvements. Support is now available for the KXPA100 for the KX3, integrating the amplifier directly into the user interface with Temperature, Power and SWR displays. Both the KXAT100 and KAT500 are supported with the KX3. The KX3 spectrum scope has been improved as well. ASIO driver support has been dropped due to some cases of performance issues with the spectrum. The use of Windows WDM drivers has eliminated this problem. Win4K3Suite now also supports TelePosts LP-PAN and the SoftRock II Lite Panadapters. Support for the MicroHam router is also now available. The following devices are now supported. MK2R and MK2R+ MicroKeyer II DigiKeyer II Station Master and Station Master Deluxe. Please make sure you have updated your MicroHam router software to the current release. Much thanks goes to Joe Subich who made this possible. This version of Win4K3Suite now operates in native 64bit mode eliminating a number of issues with third party video capture devices. It will of course also operate in 32 bit mode. Users of 32 bit operating system please contact me off list for specific instructions. Due to the migration to 64 bits, there is a new 30 day trial. Register users will also have to re-enter their license codes. The first independent review of Win4K3Suite is located here: http://k4mtx.wordpress.com/2014/01/12/win4k3suite-kx3/ Videos may be seen at http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=win4k3suitesm=1 Thanks for all your support. 73's, Tom va2fsq.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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. Given the above, what are your recommendations for the top three options for a brand new K3/100? Thanks in advance! 73, Arlen, N7YIM __ 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
Given the casual usage you describe, I don't think you need any options. You can always install filters, etc., later, if you find a need develops. If any of your loads (amplifiers, antennas) are over 2:1 SWR, you will want the tuner. Dave Hachadorian, K6LL Yuma, AZ -Original Message- From: Arlen Fletcher Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2014 1:25 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options? I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. Given the above, what are your recommendations for the top three options for a brand new K3/100? Thanks in advance! 73, Arlen, N7YIM __ 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/KPA500/KAT500 revs 4.83/1.38/1.58
All working smoothly except: On a couple occasions, after manually initiating a tune, the tune completed satisfactorily and then the KPA500 indicated a fault right at the end of the tune cycle. Pretty sure it was a soft fault but I habitually hit the button to clear it ... will observe more carefully if it happens again. 73, Carl WS7L __ 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] Stuff for sale, prices reduced
I'm leaving California after 25 years and going back to Israel in September. I'm selling a lot of stuff I've collected, mostly boat anchors. Have a look here http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/StuffForSale/Stuff%20for%20Sale.html I have lots and lots more, but these are some of the bigger items. -- 73, 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] Noise, RFI ?
Drat, you left out 4. Old-time Luddite ham operating a rotary spark gap rig :-) 73, Phil w7ox (No, I'm not *that* old -- quite!) On 2/20/14, 10:25 AM, Phil Hystad wrote: Jim (and others)... From all the suggestions of the RFI, these are those that rank on the top of the list but the list below is not ordered in any way. 1. Some tool or machine operated by a neighbor or maybe even a construction/contractor guy working at a neighbor's house (really fits the use pattern of this interference). Such ideas include electric arc welder. 2. Nearby large Hospital Medical center with the typical surrounding medical offices including several imaging offices. The fact that I have never heard this interference before discounts this in my opinion. 3. HV power line arc'ing or interference of some sort (there are HV towers and power lines about 500 yards from my QTH although never have I had any interference from them that I know of. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
Arlen, I agree with Dave about not needing any options. When I purchased my kit, I only added the 400Hz filter, but I do mostly CW. Later, I added the KXV3A for the RX antenna feature so I could keep my MFJ-1026 noise canceler out of the XMIT path. A while later, I added the 13kHz filter when the firmware was updated to allow this filter to be used for AM transmission. I don't use it much, but I figured it was worth it to add both AM and FM capability by adding just one filter. Good luck with your new rig. 73, Art WB8ENE On Thu, Feb 20, 2014 at 3:25 PM, Arlen Fletcher arlenfletc...@mac.comwrote: I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. Given the above, what are your recommendations for the top three options for a brand new K3/100? Thanks in advance! 73, Arlen, N7YIM __ 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
Arlen, If you are planning to chase DX as your primary focus, you may want to add the KRX3 option so you can listen to both the DX and the pileup when running split. If you want a visual display of the band with the P3 or other non-Elecraft panadapter, you will want the KXV3A option. As for filters, since you are primarily SSB, I would suggest that you initially will not need anything other than the stock filters, but if you decide on the KRX3, either order the matched 2.7 kHz filters or order the 2.8 kHz filter substitute so you do not have to be concerned about the filter offsets. Unless you have all resonant antennas (or are planning to use an amplifier), I would suggest the KAT3 option as well. OK, that is 3 options suggested. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/20/2014 3:25 PM, Arlen Fletcher wrote: I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. Given the above, what are your recommendations for the top three options for a brand new K3/100? __ 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 feature request
Note that it only shows up on the P3 itself and not on an external monitor. -Greg NY6C On Feb 19, 2014, at 1:36 PM, Alan Bloom a...@elecraft.com wrote: If you enable the menu entry WfallMkrs the markers appear on the waterfall. Alan N1AL On 02/19/2014 12:22 PM, Gary Smith wrote: I would find it helpful if the P3 markers A, B center could be made to extend below the signal line into the waterfall; it would help to center on the precise desired location to QSY to rather than guesstimate with the markers being obscured by the spectrum trace on top. Thank you, 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: 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
Others have given you good advice. The important thing to remember is that options can always be added later. In that sense, the K3 is a Barbie Doll. Or at least that's what I tell my XYL. :-) I have found a narrow filter -- mine is the 250Hz -- can help isolate a single PSK station, but is only rarely better than the filter built into the standard DSP. It can also help in a RTTY contest. I got the 2M internal transverter which I use for FM simplex and repeaters. With 20-20 hind sight, I should have just gotten a Icom/Kenwood/Yaesu radio, which would have given me 70cm. However I'm set for 2M DX when the urge strikes. And with the 13KHz filter I worked that AM station on 15M to be able to say I had worked AM. I only recently added the 100 watt option and am now interested in the tuner. I have a P3 and consider it to be the most valuable option on the radio. The second receiver would be nice, but the P3 usually lets me see where there is space in a pileup. I can spot an active DX station on the waterfall by looking at the changes in signal strength. If the station is working split, I can usually find the DX by looking down-band from the pileup. Cheers - Bill, AE6JV On 2/20/14 at 12:25 PM, arlenfletc...@mac.com (Arlen Fletcher) wrote: I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. Given the above, what are your recommendations for the top three options for a brand new K3/100? --- Bill Frantz|The nice thing about standards| Periwinkle (408)356-8506 |is there are so many to choose| 16345 Englewood Ave www.pwpconsult.com |from. - Andrew Tanenbaum| 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
I wasn't a newbie when I bought my K3/100 kit, but I probably have what you want. K3 100W amp stock SSB filter 500 Hz CW filter [you could skip this] KAT3 Auto tuner I have since added the Digital Voice Recorder/Keyer which, it turns out, I rarely use. I was capitalizing on the modularity of the K3 planning on adding a few things after I got used to it. Other than the DVR, none of that has materialized. All of the filters are roofing filters, designed to keep strong adjacent signals out of the first mixer. The differences between them and the one that comes with the K3 are small. Slightly sharper skirts, maybe a little less passband ripple, but probably only noticeable if you have several stations close to you. The final bandwidth is set by the DSP with a knob on the front panel. I got the tuner because not all of my antennas are resonant, YMMV. The second receiver is popular, it permits listening on two frequencies at once and you can use diversity receive with it. I've used K3's with it, I don't do SO2R or diversity, and I'm quite happy with the 2 VFO's in the base K3. If you are going to use the CAT capability with USB, be sure to get a USB-Serial adapter with the FTDI chipset. Mine is the Prolific, it works just fine, never had any problem with it, but a number of others have. Easiest way to go digital is 2 stereo cables from Radio Shack connecting your sound card to the LINE IN/LINE OUT jacks on the back of the K3 in DATA A mode. It helps to have a good sound card on the computer, and you can severely complicate the configuration with other interface devices, but those 2 cables are all you really need. VHF/UHF will get you into the transverters. I think you'll be very happy with the stock K3/100 and you can always add things as you gain experience. 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2014 Cal QSO Party 4-5 Oct 2014 - www.cqp.org On 2/20/2014 12:25 PM, Arlen Fletcher wrote: I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. __ 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
Hi Arlen, Welcome to the group and the Elecraft Kool Aid. I will presume that you'll get the tuner, serial interface and perhaps the TCXO module for digital stability. I consider that to be a basic K3/100 (as opposed to a bare K3 with no options). If you are NOT planning on those, they are the first three options you should get. Otherwise; If you plan on working much DX, you'll find that unless you build a mega-station, that you WILL want to work CW (avery high percentage of DX is on CW only). That means that you will want at least the 400 KHz filter, which works well enough for digital as well. For phone, I like the 1.8 KHz filter, then the FM/AM filter is you plan on those modes (hint: 6 and 10 meters has been wide open this week). Read the discussion on filters on the Elecraft pages, it'll help. I have the 5 slots filled (and in the KRX3). Having the KRX3 sub-receiver is a GREAT tool so you can hear stations working the DX which gives you a major clue where to transmit. My suggestion is that you match the filter sets between receivers (same in both). You can also have diversity receive or listen on other bands at the same time; a pretty handy tool. The P3 is an absolute KILLER tool for DX hunting. You can see the DX AND the stations (pileup), figure out where the DX is listening (watch the spikes, is there a pattern?) and/or find a quieter slot. Your time is better spent and your 'attacks' are more productive. Once you get a P3, you'll wonder why you ever went without one and you'll feel blinded when you don't have one. With this combination, I've worked 216 countries on a simple dipole in the last 2.5 years. Plus a BUNCH of band/modes. [Ok, the KPA500 helps but I couldn't use that until I got the KAT500.] So my suggestions are a full filter set, KRX3 and P3. It all depends on how much of a loan you gave Uncle. ;o) It isn't cheap but if you want the best it's worth it. Besides you won't find the level of support that you can get from Elecraft. What you don't get now can be added later, along with other neat toys like transverters, pre-amps, general coverage receiver board, SVGA board... Finally, get the kits, not the factory built. Not only will you save money (its easier to build than any Heathkit if you're old enough to know about that) you will see what is involved should you have to make an addition, repair or modification. 73, Rick wa6nhc a well dressed K3, P3, KPA500, KAT500 On 2/20/2014 12:25 PM, Arlen Fletcher wrote: I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. Given the above, what are your recommendations for the top three options for a brand new K3/100? Thanks in advance! 73, Arlen, N7YIM __ 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] SSB problem--again!
I have lost SSB again--however CW is still working fine. I can hear my microphone in the monitor. This happened once before and I used the K3 Utility and did the “Calibrate Transmitter Gain” and it restored SSB. However, I can’t get it to work this time. I re-set up the Mic Gain and Compression Settings. No luck. I’ve contacted Elecraft support and Howard has been trying, but so far no luck. Somehow I my config file must be wrong? Thanks for any help, Troy, W6HV __ 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] SSB problem--again!
Hi Troy, Questions: 1. Are you in SPLIT mode by any chance, with VFO B set to some mode other than SSB? 2. Do you have mic gain adjusted to the point of seeing 5 bars of ALC on the meter on voice peaks? 3. Do you have the SSB crystal filter's labeled offset entered in the CONFIG:FLn OFS menu entry? 4. If you set CONFIG:2-TONE to ON, exit the menu, and tap XMIT, do you see power output? (Turn it back off afterwards.) 5. Are there any error messages when you power-up the K3? The answers to the above might help us figure out what's going on. 73. Wayne N6KR On Feb 20, 2014, at 3:52 PM, Troy,w6hv w...@verizon.net wrote: I have lost SSB again--however CW is still working fine. I can hear my microphone in the monitor. This happened once before and I used the K3 Utility and did the “Calibrate Transmitter Gain” and it restored SSB. However, I can’t get it to work this time. I re-set up the Mic Gain and Compression Settings. No luck. I’ve contacted Elecraft support and Howard has been trying, but so far no luck. Somehow I my config file must be wrong? Thanks for any help, Troy, W6HV __ 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 - need a desktop keypad
I presume the serial path could be: PC--PigKnob i'face gizmo--PigPad--radio? If that path is OK, can I program PK and PP without disconnecting anything? Given that the back of my radio gives totally new meaning to the term wireless, it would be really cool if the PigPad could replace the PK i'face gizmo so the PK RJ11 goes to the PP too and it all goes to the radio. I haven't yet found anything to do with PK Macros 6-8 so nine banks of 10 each might be overkill for me, but anything that gets the controls down flat on the desk is good. 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2014 Cal QSO Party 4-5 Oct 2014 - www.cqp.org On 2/19/2014 8:28 PM, Brian Denley wrote: On Feb 19, 2014, at 7:29 PM, Nick Garner nwgar...@gmail.com wrote: Hi Bill and everyone else, Following up on this email, I got the prototype boards and and assembled one and it's working like a champ. Here's a demo video of what I'm calling PigPad (for now). http://youtu.be/lhVeHNsSzyI 73, Nick N3WG __ 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
My Humble thoughts Ive had my K3 for 2 years can't imagine going back to my old rig. here is what I got. K3/100 with KAT3 auto tuner KXV3A RX Ant., IF Out and Xverter Interface 2.8 filter 1.8 filter 250hz filter after 2 years I doubt that the 2.8 filter was really worth it. the 2.7 would have been fine. the 1.8 does help in big contests were you have big guns a few KHZ away from the QRP you are trying to work. but otherwise it to wasn't really needed but Im glad i have it. Im happy I have the 250HZ both for contesting CW and PSK haven't used the KXV3A yet. was planning a beverage for RX and it hasn't happened yet. also will be getting P3 soon. so good thing I have the KXV3A anyway. I would have been fine with K3/100 + KAT3 + 250hz filter still wanting P3 badly. plus general coverage receive band pass filters and FM filter as it will do AM as well. you dont really need the KTCXO3-1 for most digital modes like PSK Hell MFSK etc but if you plan to use frequency sensitive modes like JT65 its a must. I play digital alot and never had an issue. By the way its not the cool aid that made me go K3. its just that the K3 is a damn good rig period! David Moes VE3DVY On Thursday 20/02/2014 at 6:45 pm, Rick WA6NHC wrote: __ 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] K2 digital mode questions
Thanks Don, I think I can get a handle on most of that except the swapping LSB/USB. If my interpretation is correct I should generally set the K2 to RTTY without Rev and it'll automatically select LSB or USB depending upon band? Rev would be used only in special circumstances? I'll dig through the parts box for a capacitor tomorrow, get the filters set up again, and give it a shot. Thanks. 73, Dennis On 2/19/2014 8:44 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Dennis, First a clarification - if the band is below 15 meters, RTTY is LSB and RTTY REV is USB. You don't have to worry about that on bands above 15 meters because the K2 automatically makes the corrective swap, but when aligning the filters, use a band below 15 meters so as not to mix the sidebands. Secondly, since you run out of range when aligning the 400 Hz filter width at 1000 Hz, your BFO range is not correct (too high) on the low frequency side. That can usually be corrected by adding a small value capacitor (10 pF to 22 pF) between the junction of the crystals and C174 and ground - a capacitor between pins 6 and 3 of U11 is a good place to insert it. Check the BFO range against the manual range limits after adding the capacitor and adjust the capacitor value as required. __ 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] K2 digital mode questions
Dennis, Yes, the K2 takes care of the LSB/USB swap for bands 15 meters and above. Whether you want USB or LSB depends on the digital mode you are using. Most modes work in USB (RTTY REV) just fine (some like PSK31 will work with either), but RTTY itself typically uses LSB. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/20/2014 8:26 PM, Dennis Moore wrote: Thanks Don, I think I can get a handle on most of that except the swapping LSB/USB. If my interpretation is correct I should generally set the K2 to RTTY without Rev and it'll automatically select LSB or USB depending upon band? Rev would be used only in special circumstances? I'll dig through the parts box for a capacitor tomorrow, get the filters set up again, and give it a shot. __ 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] K2 digital mode questions
On 2/20/14 at 6:33 PM, w3...@embarqmail.com (Don Wilhelm) wrote: some [digital modes] like PSK31 will work with either [USB or LSB] PSK is a good mode to get working first because it can be inverted. You can use it to get all the details of computer -- rig connection working and then if some other mode doesn't work, probably just a change of USB/LSB will get it working. (But watch out for speeds in RTTY.) Cheers - Bill, AE6JV --- Bill Frantz| Truth and love must prevail | Periwinkle (408)356-8506 | over lies and hate. | 16345 Englewood Ave www.pwpconsult.com | - Vaclav Havel | 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] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options?
Arlen, I just bought my second K3 and would recommend the following: K3/100 KAT3 Auto tuner plus second antenna port KXV3A RX Ant., IF Out and Xverter Interface -- for adding a P3 later 400 Hz 8 pole filter for CW and RTTY That would be my top three options for general DX and CW operation. 73, Dave, N4QS -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Arlen Fletcher Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2014 2:26 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Buying a new K3/100 kit - Top 3 options? I'm about to pull the trigger on a K3/100 purchase (once the IRS returns the interest-free loan I provided to them in 2013). There are a LOT of options listed for the K3 on the Elecraft site, and I'm a total newbie, so I'm appealing for help from current K3 owners. I plan to chase DX primarily and hope to learn more about the digital modes, though CW isn't of significant interest at this point. Given the above, what are your recommendations for the top three options for a brand new K3/100? Thanks in advance! 73, Arlen, N7YIM __ 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
