Re: [Elecraft] The Mighty KX3+KXPA100 Into a Hi-Power Linear
I have run KX3-KXPA100-KPA500-KAT500 and it was seamless QSK on CW. A beautiful thing to behold--until I saw what looked like a tear forming on the lower right side of the K3 display. 73 Eric WD6DBM David Ahrendts davidahren...@me.com wrote: Tell me I’m not thee only wacko doing this: a KX3 into a KXPA100 into a high power linear. In my case, Ameritron ALS-600S. Took a lot of balancing and RF/SWR hygiene work. But it has settled into a wonderful balance. Got my little rig for my back pack when I want, and the hi-power home rig when I want. Nice. Anyone else doing this? David Ahrendts, KC0XTR, Los Angeles David Ahrendts davidahren...@me.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 Message delivered to norrislawfi...@gmail.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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] The Mighty KX3+KXPA100 Into a Hi-Power Linear
Well, the K3 IS a very sensitive rig. 73, Mike NF4L On Nov 24, 2014, at 3:37 AM, Eric Norris norrislawfi...@gmail.com wrote: I have run KX3-KXPA100-KPA500-KAT500 and it was seamless QSK on CW. A beautiful thing to behold--until I saw what looked like a tear forming on the lower right side of the K3 display. 73 Eric WD6DBM __ 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] The Mighty KX3+KXPA100 Into a Hi-Power Linear
I realize this approaches blasphemy, but just a quick note to say I'm getting a tad under 500 watts (steady whistle) out of an Icom PW-1 when driving it with my KX3 set for 12 watts out. At this drive level, I didn't bother to connect the ALC but the amp still has it's SWR etc. safety features enabled. It didn't like it when I had my 40M dipole selected and tried transmitting on 14 MHz.! The PW-1's are going for around $3k and DO have a decent antenna matcher inside. Admittedly, this makes for a much larger station package, but if you get a good deal on one, it might be an alternative. Especially if you also own a K3. That said, remember, if you're 20 over S-9 at a kilowatt, you'll still be S-5 at 100 milliwatts. 73, Charlie k3ICH __ 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 and FLDIGI Question
Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. It's not labeled and is often overlooked. Bob NW8L On Sun, 23 Nov 2014, david Moes wrote: Be Carfull you really should have four bars and fifth blinking if its below that you can get some strange fluctuations on the output power. so a compromise between programs is not the best idea. When the K3 is in DATA A mode the mic gain will adjust the level for the line in so adjustment when using different programs is easy. level differences can be a problem with running multiple programs for digital as they seems to have different algorithms and different output levels I no longer use FLdigi and have moved to MMVARI as it has internal TX level adjustment that is independent of the soundcard level. with this I can match the output with the WSJT-X and MMSSTV. I can't seem to find this independent control for FLdigi. I have only tried Coacomodem some time ago but I believe it too has an independent level control that may help in matching levels with other programs although I cant remember if that setting is linked to the windows levels or not I don't believe that WSJT-X has this though. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/23/2014 18:06, James Bennett wrote: John - thanks - that hit the nail on the head for me. The setting I had on my external audio card?s output control was sufficient given the K3?s Mic level that I was using with cocoaModem and WSJT-X. However, as you pointed out, it was not sufficient enough for FLDIGI to ?tickle? the K3. So - I increased the audio card output a bit until I saw the K3?s ALC bars light up, then backed down on the K3?s Mic gain. Now it?s working just fine with FLDIGI, cocoaModem, and WSJT-X. Much appreciated for the replies from both of you - case closed! 73, Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 2:13 PM, John Nelson j...@happyvalleybiz.com wrote: The same thing happens in my setup, if the audio level from the sound card to the K3 is too low. Nothing will appear in the ALC window, no matter how high I turn up the mic gain. Once establishing a minimum audio level, the ALC will show four bars with the fifth flickering at a mic level of 7. It's very touchy for me to get just right, but I am probably using sub-optimal sound cards. Works fine, though, for all the digital modes. John / W3DN On 11/23/2014 4:34 PM, James Bennett wrote: Hi david - thanks for the reply to my post. Unfortunately, no improvement. I have everything set exactly as you suggest (it was already that way) and the result is the same. I type in some text, press T/R and: the K3 goes into transmit mode, RF flows out the radio to the antenna, but no ALC indication on the K3 ALC meter. I shut down FLDIGI, bring up cocoaModem and do EXACTLY the same thing with absolutely no changes, and I get the RF out, but with the fifth ALC bar flickering. Funky, huh? Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 6:18 AM, david Moes dm...@nexicom.net wrote: Its not normal verify that you have the correct sound card selected in FLdigi and that the levels are set correctly. In the setup under configure sound card first tab devices I have port audio set to the sound card for the rig (soundblaster in my case) under settings sample rate is native and converter is medium interpolation. and corrections all 0 and third tab right channel all buttons are clear unchecked. David Moes VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/22/2014 17:15, James Bennett wrote: I?ve been using cocoaModem on my iMac for PSK31 QSO?s. Also, I use WSJT-X for JT65 and JT9. Recently downloaded FLDIGI v 3.22.01 and gave it a try. It works, but?.. When I transmit, I get absolutely no indication of RF being sent. The K3 goes into transmit mode, but I get no ALC action on the K3 meter. I know I?m getting RF out because (1) my KPA500 (in standby mode) is showing 30 watts, and (2) I?ve had several QSO?s on PSK31. If I bring up cocoaModem and transmit, I get the ALC action that I?m used to seeing: the fifth bar flickering. Same thing with WSJT-X. But for some reason, when I transmit with FLDIGI - nada, zip, zero indication. Is this ?normal?? If so, how would one ever set audio levels w/o having any indication of audio actually flowing? What do I have set wrong? Thanks, Jim / W6JHB __ 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 Message delivered to dm...@nexicom.net __
Re: [Elecraft] K3 and FLDIGI Question
On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. The K3 *can not* adjust transmit level (power output) by reducing audio drive. If you reduce drive below the ALC threshold, power output will become unstable and drift. Set your sound card output to a fixed level (typically 60 to 80% of maximum), adjust the K3 Line IN control for four to five bars of ALC, then adjust desired power output using the K3 PWR control. Any other procedure risks unstable power output (low end) or significant distortion (high end). 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. It's not labeled and is often overlooked. Bob NW8L On Sun, 23 Nov 2014, david Moes wrote: Be Carfull you really should have four bars and fifth blinking if its below that you can get some strange fluctuations on the output power. so a compromise between programs is not the best idea. When the K3 is in DATA A mode the mic gain will adjust the level for the line in so adjustment when using different programs is easy. level differences can be a problem with running multiple programs for digital as they seems to have different algorithms and different output levels I no longer use FLdigi and have moved to MMVARI as it has internal TX level adjustment that is independent of the soundcard level. with this I can match the output with the WSJT-X and MMSSTV. I can't seem to find this independent control for FLdigi. I have only tried Coacomodem some time ago but I believe it too has an independent level control that may help in matching levels with other programs although I cant remember if that setting is linked to the windows levels or not I don't believe that WSJT-X has this though. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/23/2014 18:06, James Bennett wrote: John - thanks - that hit the nail on the head for me. The setting I had on my external audio card?s output control was sufficient given the K3?s Mic level that I was using with cocoaModem and WSJT-X. However, as you pointed out, it was not sufficient enough for FLDIGI to ?tickle? the K3. So - I increased the audio card output a bit until I saw the K3?s ALC bars light up, then backed down on the K3?s Mic gain. Now it?s working just fine with FLDIGI, cocoaModem, and WSJT-X. Much appreciated for the replies from both of you - case closed! 73, Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 2:13 PM, John Nelson j...@happyvalleybiz.com wrote: The same thing happens in my setup, if the audio level from the sound card to the K3 is too low. Nothing will appear in the ALC window, no matter how high I turn up the mic gain. Once establishing a minimum audio level, the ALC will show four bars with the fifth flickering at a mic level of 7. It's very touchy for me to get just right, but I am probably using sub-optimal sound cards. Works fine, though, for all the digital modes. John / W3DN On 11/23/2014 4:34 PM, James Bennett wrote: Hi david - thanks for the reply to my post. Unfortunately, no improvement. I have everything set exactly as you suggest (it was already that way) and the result is the same. I type in some text, press T/R and: the K3 goes into transmit mode, RF flows out the radio to the antenna, but no ALC indication on the K3 ALC meter. I shut down FLDIGI, bring up cocoaModem and do EXACTLY the same thing with absolutely no changes, and I get the RF out, but with the fifth ALC bar flickering. Funky, huh? Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 6:18 AM, david Moes dm...@nexicom.net wrote: Its not normal verify that you have the correct sound card selected in FLdigi and that the levels are set correctly. In the setup under configure sound card first tab devices I have port audio set to the sound card for the rig (soundblaster in my case) under settings sample rate is native and converter is medium interpolation. and corrections all 0 and third tab right channel all buttons are clear unchecked. David Moes VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/22/2014 17:15, James Bennett wrote: I?ve been using cocoaModem on my iMac for PSK31 QSO?s. Also, I use WSJT-X for JT65 and JT9. Recently downloaded FLDIGI v 3.22.01 and gave it a try. It works, but?.. When I transmit, I get absolutely no indication of RF being sent. The K3 goes into transmit mode, but I get no ALC action on the K3 meter. I know I?m getting RF out because (1) my KPA500 (in standby mode) is showing 30 watts, and (2) I?ve had several QSO?s on PSK31. If I bring up cocoaModem and transmit, I get the ALC action that I?m
Re: [Elecraft] K3 and FLDIGI Question
Hi Joe I think what you say is understood. but there is a reason to adjust what FLdigi calls TX level. This is to match the output level so it matches other programs this adjustment is independent so it wont effect levels from other programs.If the output levels of all program can matched ie FLdigi WSJT-X, MMsstv, etc. it simplifies things when moving from one digital program to another by not having to readjust levels every time to achieve the proper setting of four bars fifth blinking. I think if you read the rest of the postings you will understand this need. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/24/2014 11:31, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. The K3 *can not* adjust transmit level (power output) by reducing audio drive. If you reduce drive below the ALC threshold, power output will become unstable and drift. Set your sound card output to a fixed level (typically 60 to 80% of maximum), adjust the K3 Line IN control for four to five bars of ALC, then adjust desired power output using the K3 PWR control. Any other procedure risks unstable power output (low end) or significant distortion (high end). 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. It's not labeled and is often overlooked. Bob NW8L On Sun, 23 Nov 2014, david Moes wrote: Be Carfull you really should have four bars and fifth blinking if its below that you can get some strange fluctuations on the output power. so a compromise between programs is not the best idea. When the K3 is in DATA A mode the mic gain will adjust the level for the line in so adjustment when using different programs is easy. level differences can be a problem with running multiple programs for digital as they seems to have different algorithms and different output levels I no longer use FLdigi and have moved to MMVARI as it has internal TX level adjustment that is independent of the soundcard level. with this I can match the output with the WSJT-X and MMSSTV. I can't seem to find this independent control for FLdigi. I have only tried Coacomodem some time ago but I believe it too has an independent level control that may help in matching levels with other programs although I cant remember if that setting is linked to the windows levels or not I don't believe that WSJT-X has this though. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/23/2014 18:06, James Bennett wrote: John - thanks - that hit the nail on the head for me. The setting I had on my external audio card?s output control was sufficient given the K3?s Mic level that I was using with cocoaModem and WSJT-X. However, as you pointed out, it was not sufficient enough for FLDIGI to ?tickle? the K3. So - I increased the audio card output a bit until I saw the K3?s ALC bars light up, then backed down on the K3?s Mic gain. Now it?s working just fine with FLDIGI, cocoaModem, and WSJT-X. Much appreciated for the replies from both of you - case closed! 73, Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 2:13 PM, John Nelson j...@happyvalleybiz.com wrote: The same thing happens in my setup, if the audio level from the sound card to the K3 is too low. Nothing will appear in the ALC window, no matter how high I turn up the mic gain. Once establishing a minimum audio level, the ALC will show four bars with the fifth flickering at a mic level of 7. It's very touchy for me to get just right, but I am probably using sub-optimal sound cards. Works fine, though, for all the digital modes. John / W3DN On 11/23/2014 4:34 PM, James Bennett wrote: Hi david - thanks for the reply to my post. Unfortunately, no improvement. I have everything set exactly as you suggest (it was already that way) and the result is the same. I type in some text, press T/R and: the K3 goes into transmit mode, RF flows out the radio to the antenna, but no ALC indication on the K3 ALC meter. I shut down FLDIGI, bring up cocoaModem and do EXACTLY the same thing with absolutely no changes, and I get the RF out, but with the fifth ALC bar flickering. Funky, huh? Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 6:18 AM, david Moes dm...@nexicom.net wrote: Its not normal verify that you have the correct sound card selected in FLdigi and that the levels are set correctly. In the setup under configure sound card first tab devices I have port audio set to the sound card for the rig (soundblaster in my case) under
[Elecraft] K3/100 For Sale
Like new K3/100 for sale, purchased earlier this year. Includes KPA3 (100W Amp), KAT3 (ATU), KXV3A (RX Ant, IF Out, X-verter interface), KLF3A-2.7K (Filter), MH2 (Hand mic). Also includes, Original Owners Manual, Kit Assembly Manual, Fred Cady (K3 Design, Config, and Operation Manual). Original Box. Purchased as kit, lovingly assembled, then radio was calibrated at the factory. Radio serial# 8155. Non-smoking house, NO scratches, like new. Asking $2400. Contact me off the reflector at the email address on QRZ.com Ron K2RAS -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-100-For-Sale-tp7595052.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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 and FLDIGI Question
I think what you say is understood. but there is a reason to adjust what FLdigi calls TX level. This is to match the output level so it matches other programs this adjustment is independent so it wont effect levels from other programs. At least in the Windows world (Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1) that adjustment is handled in the Windows Sound Mixer. The Master control (hardware) for the output is set to 60 to 80%, the application specific outputs are maintained as separate sub-mixer levels and are generally left at 100% - 100% of the maximum set in the hardware - since application based controls are all relative in the hardware abstraction layer *unless* the particular application is designed to use the sound card in *exclusive* modes (Port Audio is not exclusive). In any case, reducing the audio output of a Windows based digital application to control power output *will* run afoul of the ALC/power control in the K3 (and presumably the KX3). The attenuator in Fldigi (and any other digital software) should be left at 100% and the audio drive controlled by the K3 Line In control. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 1:14 PM, david Moes wrote: Hi Joe I think what you say is understood. but there is a reason to adjust what FLdigi calls TX level. This is to match the output level so it matches other programs this adjustment is independent so it wont effect levels from other programs.If the output levels of all program can matched ie FLdigi WSJT-X, MMsstv, etc. it simplifies things when moving from one digital program to another by not having to readjust levels every time to achieve the proper setting of four bars fifth blinking. I think if you read the rest of the postings you will understand this need. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/24/2014 11:31, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. The K3 *can not* adjust transmit level (power output) by reducing audio drive. If you reduce drive below the ALC threshold, power output will become unstable and drift. Set your sound card output to a fixed level (typically 60 to 80% of maximum), adjust the K3 Line IN control for four to five bars of ALC, then adjust desired power output using the K3 PWR control. Any other procedure risks unstable power output (low end) or significant distortion (high end). 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. It's not labeled and is often overlooked. Bob NW8L On Sun, 23 Nov 2014, david Moes wrote: Be Carfull you really should have four bars and fifth blinking if its below that you can get some strange fluctuations on the output power. so a compromise between programs is not the best idea. When the K3 is in DATA A mode the mic gain will adjust the level for the line in so adjustment when using different programs is easy. level differences can be a problem with running multiple programs for digital as they seems to have different algorithms and different output levels I no longer use FLdigi and have moved to MMVARI as it has internal TX level adjustment that is independent of the soundcard level. with this I can match the output with the WSJT-X and MMSSTV. I can't seem to find this independent control for FLdigi. I have only tried Coacomodem some time ago but I believe it too has an independent level control that may help in matching levels with other programs although I cant remember if that setting is linked to the windows levels or not I don't believe that WSJT-X has this though. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/23/2014 18:06, James Bennett wrote: John - thanks - that hit the nail on the head for me. The setting I had on my external audio card?s output control was sufficient given the K3?s Mic level that I was using with cocoaModem and WSJT-X. However, as you pointed out, it was not sufficient enough for FLDIGI to ?tickle? the K3. So - I increased the audio card output a bit until I saw the K3?s ALC bars light up, then backed down on the K3?s Mic gain. Now it?s working just fine with FLDIGI, cocoaModem, and WSJT-X. Much appreciated for the replies from both of you - case closed! 73, Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 2:13 PM, John Nelson j...@happyvalleybiz.com wrote: The same thing happens in my setup, if the audio level from the sound card to the K3 is too low. Nothing will appear in the ALC window, no matter how high I turn up the mic gain. Once establishing a minimum
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 For Sale
The radio has been sold. Thanks for the interest. Ron K2RAS -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-100-For-Sale-tp7595052p7595054.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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] New Release of Win4K3/KX3 Suite
First let me say, I am not an employee of Win4K Suite, but I just want to spread the word about a product that make that investment in your K3 and KX3 even more powerful and fun. I thought I pass on the word if you have not checked out the new release of the Win4K3/KX3 Suite (http://va2fsq.com/) and you have a KX3 or K3, you should. Version 1.708 has a number of significant improvements to the spectrum scope. One such improvement is a rework of the downsampling of DSP data for the display. My buddies and I gave Tom some feedback and showed him what we like in other panadapters. He took our suggests and did something with it. New routines now display many more peaks than previously and even many more than the NAP3 panadapter display. I use to be a beta tester for NAP3, and I have extremely impressed with Tom's development. It seems to be an incredibly stable software product. When I compared it side by side with NAP3, Win4K Suite found signals NAP3 did not see. There is flexibility to use either a 16 bit or 24 bit sound card. There are 32bit and 64bit releases, too. One of the things that is nice is the customization of the panadapter display. You can put in your band limits for your zone or license class, and define colors nicely. There were some refinements of the terminal window, too. I used the a pre-release during SS SSB with N1MM+ and both were very stable. During SS CW, I was able run CW Skimmer, CW Get, use the Terminal to capture long strings of the K3 decodse of CW, and run N1MM+. I've never been able to run on CW during a contest before. But with all that going, I was able to get long cw runs going day and night on 40m, rates twice as high as any of my previous search and pounce rates. Lots of fun. A big batch of LoTW confirmations afterwards towards 40m CW WAS, too! I use com0com with Win4K Suite for virtual com port support, then run HRD Logger application, and HRD Rotator (when not using N1MM+) with Win4K Suite. I no longer use HRD's Rig Control. Win4K suite replace HRD's Rig Control as the server HRD and other apps can connect to in order to access the K3/KX3. HRD Logger works extremely well with Win4k suite. click on a dx spot in HRD Logger or Win4K3 dx window, and the radio QSYs. Nice! With HRD Logger and Win4K cluster window open, you can be connected to two different DX Clusters like Club Log (synched with your DXCC Status) and HRD Logger (also synched with your DX status). Then using the spectrum you can look, listen and feel on the DX is working and where! Awesome. He has a nice split feature that allow you to click on split, then right click up 1, 3, 5 or 10. Quick and not mistakes sending on the DX station wanting to work split. Give it a try during CQ WW CW or chasing DX/WAS, I think you will be excited with the product. 73, Doug NA1DX __ 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 and FLDIGI Question
Sigh. I don't see how you read that into my message. I am *not* advocating using the Fldigi attenuator to adjust transmit level in the K3. That ofcourse is done with the K3 power setting, with the K3 input control set for 4-5 bars ALC indicated. I'm saying only that the attenuator can be used to establish the level from flidigi to the soundcard, e.g. to equalize it (if possible) with the output of other programs so that the soundcard and K3 settings don't have to be touched when switching between them. Bob NW8L On Mon, 24 Nov 2014, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. The K3 *can not* adjust transmit level (power output) by reducing audio drive. If you reduce drive below the ALC threshold, power output will become unstable and drift. Set your sound card output to a fixed level (typically 60 to 80% of maximum), adjust the K3 Line IN control for four to five bars of ALC, then adjust desired power output using the K3 PWR control. Any other procedure risks unstable power output (low end) or significant distortion (high end). 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. It's not labeled and is often overlooked. Bob NW8L On Sun, 23 Nov 2014, david Moes wrote: Be Carfull you really should have four bars and fifth blinking if its below that you can get some strange fluctuations on the output power. so a compromise between programs is not the best idea. When the K3 is in DATA A mode the mic gain will adjust the level for the line in so adjustment when using different programs is easy. level differences can be a problem with running multiple programs for digital as they seems to have different algorithms and different output levels I no longer use FLdigi and have moved to MMVARI as it has internal TX level adjustment that is independent of the soundcard level. with this I can match the output with the WSJT-X and MMSSTV. I can't seem to find this independent control for FLdigi. I have only tried Coacomodem some time ago but I believe it too has an independent level control that may help in matching levels with other programs although I cant remember if that setting is linked to the windows levels or not I don't believe that WSJT-X has this though. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/23/2014 18:06, James Bennett wrote: John - thanks - that hit the nail on the head for me. The setting I had on my external audio card?s output control was sufficient given the K3?s Mic level that I was using with cocoaModem and WSJT-X. However, as you pointed out, it was not sufficient enough for FLDIGI to ?tickle? the K3. So - I increased the audio card output a bit until I saw the K3?s ALC bars light up, then backed down on the K3?s Mic gain. Now it?s working just fine with FLDIGI, cocoaModem, and WSJT-X. Much appreciated for the replies from both of you - case closed! 73, Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 2:13 PM, John Nelson j...@happyvalleybiz.com wrote: The same thing happens in my setup, if the audio level from the sound card to the K3 is too low. Nothing will appear in the ALC window, no matter how high I turn up the mic gain. Once establishing a minimum audio level, the ALC will show four bars with the fifth flickering at a mic level of 7. It's very touchy for me to get just right, but I am probably using sub-optimal sound cards. Works fine, though, for all the digital modes. John / W3DN On 11/23/2014 4:34 PM, James Bennett wrote: Hi david - thanks for the reply to my post. Unfortunately, no improvement. I have everything set exactly as you suggest (it was already that way) and the result is the same. I type in some text, press T/R and: the K3 goes into transmit mode, RF flows out the radio to the antenna, but no ALC indication on the K3 ALC meter. I shut down FLDIGI, bring up cocoaModem and do EXACTLY the same thing with absolutely no changes, and I get the RF out, but with the fifth ALC bar flickering. Funky, huh? Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 6:18 AM, david Moes dm...@nexicom.net wrote: Its not normal verify that you have the correct sound card selected in FLdigi and that the levels are set correctly. In the setup under configure sound card first tab devices I have port audio set to the sound card for the rig (soundblaster in my case) under settings sample rate is native and converter is medium interpolation. and corrections all 0 and third tab right channel all buttons are clear unchecked.
Re: [Elecraft] New Release of Win4K3/KX3 Suite
I, too, am using the latest release of Win4K3. It took a few adjustments to get it to look like I wanted, but I finally did it. I run with a 192KHz, 24 bit card. Tom now supports 24 bit. It isn't a spectrum analyzer, but it sure does look good. I don't run with the total of software applications that Doug is running, but I use three monitors to display all that I do run. I use HRD for logging and spotting, CWSkimmer and FLDIGI or DM780 depending on circumstance. For contesting, I replace HRD with N1MM. What I have noticed is that running without the need to use LPBridge allows my software and computer to be less finicky. Overall, the switch to Win4K3 has been an improvement in what I can see and smoother operation. I would like to recommend that any KX3 owner who wants to really see what an integrated station operation can do start with installing Win4K3. 73, Barry K3NDM - Original Message - From: Ellmore, Doug d...@ellmore.net To: elecraft elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, November 24, 2014 6:57:30 PM Subject: [Elecraft] New Release of Win4K3/KX3 Suite First let me say, I am not an employee of Win4K Suite, but I just want to spread the word about a product that make that investment in your K3 and KX3 even more powerful and fun. I thought I pass on the word if you have not checked out the new release of the Win4K3/KX3 Suite (http://va2fsq.com/) and you have a KX3 or K3, you should. Version 1.708 has a number of significant improvements to the spectrum scope. One such improvement is a rework of the downsampling of DSP data for the display. My buddies and I gave Tom some feedback and showed him what we like in other panadapters. He took our suggests and did something with it. New routines now display many more peaks than previously and even many more than the NAP3 panadapter display. I use to be a beta tester for NAP3, and I have extremely impressed with Tom's development. It seems to be an incredibly stable software product. When I compared it side by side with NAP3, Win4K Suite found signals NAP3 did not see. There is flexibility to use either a 16 bit or 24 bit sound card. There are 32bit and 64bit releases, too. One of the things that is nice is the customization of the panadapter display. You can put in your band limits for your zone or license class, and define colors nicely. There were some refinements of the terminal window, too. I used the a pre-release during SS SSB with N1MM+ and both were very stable. During SS CW, I was able run CW Skimmer, CW Get, use the Terminal to capture long strings of the K3 decodse of CW, and run N1MM+. I've never been able to run on CW during a contest before. But with all that going, I was able to get long cw runs going day and night on 40m, rates twice as high as any of my previous search and pounce rates. Lots of fun. A big batch of LoTW confirmations afterwards towards 40m CW WAS, too! I use com0com with Win4K Suite for virtual com port support, then run HRD Logger application, and HRD Rotator (when not using N1MM+) with Win4K Suite. I no longer use HRD's Rig Control. Win4K suite replace HRD's Rig Control as the server HRD and other apps can connect to in order to access the K3/KX3. HRD Logger works extremely well with Win4k suite. click on a dx spot in HRD Logger or Win4K3 dx window, and the radio QSYs. Nice! With HRD Logger and Win4K cluster window open, you can be connected to two different DX Clusters like Club Log (synched with your DXCC Status) and HRD Logger (also synched with your DX status). Then using the spectrum you can look, listen and feel on the DX is working and where! Awesome. He has a nice split feature that allow you to click on split, then right click up 1, 3, 5 or 10. Quick and not mistakes sending on the DX station wanting to work split. Give it a try during CQ WW CW or chasing DX/WAS, I think you will be excited with the product. 73, Doug NA1DX __ 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 Message delivered to k3...@comcast.net __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3 and FLDIGI Question
I'm saying with a properly configured Windows system, there should be no need to adjust the TX Attenuator in Fldigi and doing so can only cause instability. As long as each digital program is set for maximum level (maximum digital gain) and the Windows Mixer control for that program is at the same level as the hardware output level for that card, each program will generate the same maximum output level. In this condition, reducing the TX Attenuator in fldigi (or digital output level in MMTTY, MMVARI, etc.) can only reduce the audio level for that program and cause under drive with the attendant power instability in the K3. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 8:53 PM, Bob NW8L wrote: Sigh. I don't see how you read that into my message. I am *not* advocating using the Fldigi attenuator to adjust transmit level in the K3. That ofcourse is done with the K3 power setting, with the K3 input control set for 4-5 bars ALC indicated. I'm saying only that the attenuator can be used to establish the level from flidigi to the soundcard, e.g. to equalize it (if possible) with the output of other programs so that the soundcard and K3 settings don't have to be touched when switching between them. Bob NW8L On Mon, 24 Nov 2014, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. The K3 *can not* adjust transmit level (power output) by reducing audio drive. If you reduce drive below the ALC threshold, power output will become unstable and drift. Set your sound card output to a fixed level (typically 60 to 80% of maximum), adjust the K3 Line IN control for four to five bars of ALC, then adjust desired power output using the K3 PWR control. Any other procedure risks unstable power output (low end) or significant distortion (high end). 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 11:14 AM, Bob NW8L wrote: Fldigi has a TX level *attenuator* control on the status bar (to the left of the AFC button) that can be used to trim the TX level. It can be used to adjust levels downward to match those of other programs. It's not labeled and is often overlooked. Bob NW8L On Sun, 23 Nov 2014, david Moes wrote: Be Carfull you really should have four bars and fifth blinking if its below that you can get some strange fluctuations on the output power. so a compromise between programs is not the best idea. When the K3 is in DATA A mode the mic gain will adjust the level for the line in so adjustment when using different programs is easy. level differences can be a problem with running multiple programs for digital as they seems to have different algorithms and different output levels I no longer use FLdigi and have moved to MMVARI as it has internal TX level adjustment that is independent of the soundcard level. with this I can match the output with the WSJT-X and MMSSTV. I can't seem to find this independent control for FLdigi. I have only tried Coacomodem some time ago but I believe it too has an independent level control that may help in matching levels with other programs although I cant remember if that setting is linked to the windows levels or not I don't believe that WSJT-X has this though. David Moes President: Peterborough Amateur Radio Club. dm...@nexicom.net VE3DVY, VE3SD On 11/23/2014 18:06, James Bennett wrote: John - thanks - that hit the nail on the head for me. The setting I had on my external audio card?s output control was sufficient given the K3?s Mic level that I was using with cocoaModem and WSJT-X. However, as you pointed out, it was not sufficient enough for FLDIGI to ?tickle? the K3. So - I increased the audio card output a bit until I saw the K3?s ALC bars light up, then backed down on the K3?s Mic gain. Now it?s working just fine with FLDIGI, cocoaModem, and WSJT-X. Much appreciated for the replies from both of you - case closed! 73, Jim / W6JHB On Sunday, Nov 23, 2014, at Sunday, 2:13 PM, John Nelson j...@happyvalleybiz.com wrote: The same thing happens in my setup, if the audio level from the sound card to the K3 is too low. Nothing will appear in the ALC window, no matter how high I turn up the mic gain. Once establishing a minimum audio level, the ALC will show four bars with the fifth flickering at a mic level of 7. It's very touchy for me to get just right, but I am probably using sub-optimal sound cards. Works fine, though, for all the digital modes. John / W3DN On 11/23/2014 4:34 PM, James Bennett wrote: Hi david - thanks for the reply to my post. Unfortunately, no improvement. I have everything set exactly as you suggest (it was already that way) and the result is the same. I type in some text, press T/R and: the K3 goes into transmit mode, RF flows out the radio to the antenna, but no ALC indication on the K3 ALC meter. I shut
Re: [Elecraft] K3 and FLDIGI Question
I'm running fldigi on Linux. You still seem to think I am advocating that the fldigi attenuator be varied during operation, after the K3 mic control was adjusted for the correct ALC indication, as a sort of power control. Of course that's wrong. But again, that's not what I said! I refer to the attenuator merely as an option to set the baseline fldigi output level. This would be a static setting, made in the program setup phase, with no need to touch it again. Rest assured, there are 4-5 bars ALC at all times on my K3 during digital operation, and if I want to change the power level I use the power control! Bob NW8L On Mon, 24 Nov 2014, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote: I'm saying with a properly configured Windows system, there should be no need to adjust the TX Attenuator in Fldigi and doing so can only cause instability. As long as each digital program is set for maximum level (maximum digital gain) and the Windows Mixer control for that program is at the same level as the hardware output level for that card, each program will generate the same maximum output level. In this condition, reducing the TX Attenuator in fldigi (or digital output level in MMTTY, MMVARI, etc.) can only reduce the audio level for that program and cause under drive with the attendant power instability in the K3. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-11-24 8:53 PM, Bob NW8L wrote: Sigh. I don't see how you read that into my message. I am *not* advocating using the Fldigi attenuator to adjust transmit level in the K3. That ofcourse is done with the K3 power setting, with the K3 input control set for 4-5 bars ALC indicated. I'm saying only that the attenuator can be used to establish the level from flidigi to the soundcard, e.g. to equalize it (if possible) with the output of other programs so that the soundcard and K3 settings don't have to be touched when switching between them. Bob NW8L On Mon, 24 Nov 2014, Joe Subich, W4TV 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] KX3-2M low power output in SSB mode -- fixed
I believe I have this fixed. Drive power was internally limited and scaled in a way that affected only SSB mode, especially with speech compression turned on. If you've noticed lower power output on the 2-meter module in SSB mode than in CW or FM modes, and would like to try the revised firmware, please email me directly. I have several other KX3 firmware changes to make, e.g. improving high-speed CW keying on 2 meters. These will have to wait until after the Thanksgiving holiday. 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
