[Elecraft] KPA1500 Power Level

[Barry Simpson]

I have had a quick look through the KPA1500 manual and could not find any
reference to running the amplifier at a lower power level than the rated
1,500w.

Can anyone comment on the implications (eg temperature, efficiency and IMD)
of running a KPA1500 at say 500w by simply reducing the drive power.

Would the power level be stable if set to 500w or would it drift upwards or
downwards during the course of an over on CW ?

Thanks

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] Giving Up

[Barry Simpson]

Well said Dave

I am a rig tragic like you and many others.

I have always got to buy and try all the newest rigs and then move them on
if I am not that smitten.

My current rigs/keepers are a K3 (2008 vintage), TS890, Omni 6+, Orion 2
(three of those !), SunSDR2DX.

Been and gone rigs include the IC7851, IC7610, TS990 (only because it got
too heavy for me so I got the TS890), MB1, Flex 6600M and a number of
others.

I have not yet succumbed to the FTDX101 or the FTDX10 but may give one or
the other a try. However, one of my main requirements is good quiet QSK so
I am not sure that the Yaesu is suitable and the bandscope strikes me as
horrible.

I too have had a no deposit K4D on order for about two years. I intend to
just let the order sit there and see if anything eventually happens and if
it does I expect I will buy it !!

Barry  VK2BJ

On Wed, 9 Jun 2021 at 13:28, Dave Erickson  wrote:

> On 6/8/2021 12:25 PM, KENT TRIMBLE wrote:
> > Not so, Doug.
> >
> > My K3, including accessories and filters, was $4,500 in 2007. That's
> > $5,722 in today's dollars.
> >
> > A K4 with all its advanced technology at $4,600 (your quote) is a steal
> > compared to a K3.
> >
> > The word "expensive" can be applied to the K4 (or any product) only when
> > answering the question, "compared to what?"  Otherwise it has no
> > meaning.  Nothing is expensive or inexpensive on its own.  The word has
> > relevance only when comparing the price of two or more products.
> >
> > 73,
> >
> > Kent  K9ZTV
> >
> >
> > On 6/7/2021 9:33 PM, Doug Person, KØDXV, wrote:
> >> ... With a tuner the [K4] price is $4600 making it one of the most
> >> expensive transceivers on the market ... When the K3 came out it was
> >> very competitively priced. I'm not sure I would describe the K4 with
> >> the same words. It is unquestionably an expensive radio.
> > .
>
> All,
>
> I followed along this thread and I think it's not useful to compare the
> K4 to the K3. The K3 to the K2 makes sense, even a KX3 to a K3 as they
> are more similar.
>
> I think the only radio on the market right now that can be compared to
> the K4 is the 7610 from ICOM. And frankly, it's not so good for the K4.
>
> A little over a year ago, I was in the market for a high end transceiver
> and basically decided between waiting for a K4 or buy a 7610. I bought
> the Icom. While I am sure the K4 is a better radio in some ways, the
> question is: is it twice as good? (Add tuner, second ADC, etc.)
>
> Looking at the specs, I am shocked the K4 is shipping with only one ADC.
> At the price point and with the 7610 on the market for $2900 all day
> long it's a serious flaw for me.
>
> The K4 also has no pre-selector that I can tell and that is useful too
> me at times, especially on the low bands.
>
> IMO the competition for the K4 is the 7610 as they are architecturally
> very similar.
>
> Maybe an Apache ANON 7000 DLE would be in there as well but the Icom
> beats that too IMO. (Since it has buttons, and a tuner, and pin-diode
> QSK etc)
>
> That said, I have since bought a K3 to go with the 7610 and will likely
> get a K4 and an ANON in the future so I am as hopeless as the rest.
>
> 73's all.
>
> --
> Dave Erickson
> AB0R
> 73
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Re: [Elecraft] A Clarification: IC-7300 vs FTDX10

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Phil

Buying the IC-7300 was definitely a descent 😊.

Barry  VK2BJ

On Wed, 9 Jun 2021 at 10:12, Phil Hystad via Elecraft <
elecraft@mailman.qth.net> wrote:

> I answered that question two years ago and it cost me about $200.
>
> I bought a 7300 because I thought it would be a descent backup to my
> K-line (K3).  Two months after I bought it, I sold it for a net $200 loss.
>
> I did the test that Don outlines in his message quoted below.  I searched
> for weak CW stations on my K3 and then switched the antenna over to the
> IC-7300 to see if I could pick them up.  Not a a precise experiment but I
> would
> say about half of the weak signals I could hear enough to copy on my K3
> were
> not copyable on the IC-7300 and a few of them were not even making an
> appearance.  This test was all done with my 20-meter dipole near the
> resonant
> point of the antenna so no tuners were involved for either radio.
>
> But, that was not the kill-shot for the 7300.  The relay clicks on
> break-in keying
> drove me crazy.
>
> 73, phil, K7PEH
>
> > On Jun 8, 2021, at 4:58 PM, Bert  wrote:
> >
> > Here is the $ 64.000 question:
> >
> > Do you think you can work more stations with a K3 vs a 7300
> > everything else being equal, antennas, location, etc.?
> >
> > Bert VE3NR
> >
> >
> >
> > On 2021-06-08 19:52, Ray wrote:
> >>
> >> Like the Old Saying……
> >> If you cant Hear them You cant Work them……….
> >> That is WHY that is a $1000.00 Radio.
> >> Good Luck Hunting the DX……
> >>
> >> Ray WA6VAB K3
> >>
> >>
> >> From: Don Wilhelm
> >> Sent: Tuesday, June 8, 2021 4:35 PM
> >> To: Richard; Elecraft
> >> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] A Clarification: IC-7300 vs FTDX10
> >>
> >> Richard and all,
> >>
> >> I have a friend who bought a K3s and then afterward bought an IC-7300.
> >> He is a weak signal CW type of guy and reports that there are many weak
> >> signals that he could copy on the K3, but were non-existent on the
> IC-7300.
> >>
> >> His reason for buying the IC-7300 had to do with possible "portable"
> >> operation.  Of course, the K3 is his rig of choice.
> >> Yes, he does have the P3 to compliment it.
> >>
> >> He had operated my K3 with P3 for 2 years at Field Day and found it
> >> excellent.  He commented that the K3 with the P3 allowed him to work
> >> stations "like shooting a fish in a barrel".
> >>
> >> I know this does not compare the IC-7300 to the FTDX10, but I thought it
> >> to be a point of interest to some.
> >>
> >> I wonder how many will be comparing the K4 to the K3 with on the air
> >> experiences.
> >>
> >> 73,
> >> Don W3FPR
> >>
> >>
> >> On 6/8/2021 7:00 PM, Richard wrote:
> >>> Assuming you're a casual rawchewer and DXer, if you had an IC-7300 and
> an FTDX10 side by side, where would they be pretty much equal, and where
> would each outshine the other?
> >>>
> >>> Think in terms of using them with a KPA500 and a KAT500.
> >>>
> >>>
> >> __
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Re: [Elecraft] Unusual problem with KPA500

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Marv

Are your K3 settings the cause of the problem?

It does not sound like a KPA500 problem. I am not sure where the KAT500
fits in.

Barry  VK2BJ

On Mon, 15 Feb 2021 at 16:26,  wrote:

> My problem only occurs on 160 meters. If the KPA500 is in stand-by I
> receive
> no signals on the K3S. Simply switching the amp to operate lets signals
> pass. I have tied different antennas jacks on the KAT500 and the problem
> remains. I sent an email to Elecraft support about a week ago and have not
> had a response. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks
>
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Re: [Elecraft] Difference between a K3 and a K3S

[Barry Simpson]

I bought everything to upgrade my 2008 dual receiver K3 to pseudo K3S
status including a K3S style rubber ring for the main tuning knob 😊👍.

Barry  VK2BJ

On Tue, 26 Jan 2021 at 09:10, Charlie T  wrote:

> There a LOT of differences between the K3 and the K3S.
> Many are minor improvements but some are major.
> Built in low noise 6M pre-amp for one. You don't have to buy the outboard
> unit.
> Somewhere I made a list of them all when I was considering whether to
> upgrade my K3 or buy a new K3S.
> After looking at all the pluses, I went with the new radio.
> Also, many of the K3 options will work in the new K3S too, so I basically
> bought a bare-bones K3S-100W version and swapped the filters etc.
>
> 73, Charlie k3ICH
>
>
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
> On
> Behalf Of AB1DD
> Sent: Monday, January 25, 2021 1:03 PM
> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Difference between a K3 and a K3S
>
> I think it was, but have no idea what the starting S/N was. It was near the
> end of the K3 run.
>
> 73,
> Carl
> AB1DD
>
> Resistance is futile.
> (don't know about reactance, though)
>
>
> On 1/25/2021 11:33 AM, Mike Kopacki wrote:
> > Was the KSYN3A synthesizer ever built into the K3 as a standard item?  If
> so, beginning at what serial number?
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Mike NJ2OM
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[Elecraft] Fwd: Ten Tec Orion II and KPA500

[Barry Simpson]

Thank you so much to everyone who responded to my request for help as below.

I have now been directed to the February 2014 issue of QST where there is
an article by AD5X which is just what I was looking for.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

-- Forwarded message -
From: Barry Simpson 
Date: Sun, 17 Jan 2021 at 10:58
Subject: Ten Tec Orion II and KPA500
To: Elecraft Mailing List 


Gooday all

I use my Ten Tec Orion II with my KPA500 and usually try to manually switch
bands rather than rely on the RF sensing.

I would really like to use the band information output from the Orion II to
automatically switch bands on the KPA500.

Does anybody know of a band decoder which is compatible with both pieces of
equipment or alternatively has anyone designed something home brew to
achieve the purpose.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] Ten Tec Orion II and KPA500

[Barry Simpson]

Gooday all

I use my Ten Tec Orion II with my KPA500 and usually try to manually switch
bands rather than rely on the RF sensing.

I would really like to use the band information output from the Orion II to
automatically switch bands on the KPA500.

Does anybody know of a band decoder which is compatible with both pieces of
equipment or alternatively has anyone designed something home brew to
achieve the purpose.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 shortened dits - you can remedy this under N1MM+

[Barry Simpson]

I beg to differ.

I have an original K3 dating from 2009 which I completely updated including the 
synthesisers. It made no difference to the shortened character issue which is 
still the same. 

It is there both in QSK and semi break in modes but does not occur if transmit 
switching is manual only, eg a foot switch with VOX turned off. 

I use mainly Idiom Press keyers and I have always compensated by setting the 
weight to around 54.

I am surprised that this issue has only surfaced again now and received such 
widespread comment and acknowledgement that it exists. I raised it in a post 
several years ago but I was unable to attract any response.

Kenwood does not have such an issue with any of their rigs including the TS890 
which I own nor does my Ten Tec Orion 2. Of course all Icoms are awfully 
shortened in QSK but not so much in semi break in.

Barry VK2BJ 

Sent from my iPhone

> On 8 Dec 2020, at 06:03, Joe Subich, W4TV  wrote:
> 
> 
> The approximately 6 ms of dit shortening represents 10% of the
> dit length at 20 WPM.  It gets progressively worse as the speed
> increases (20% at 40 WPM, 30% at 60 WPM, etc.).
> 
> Note: this only applies to K3 models that do not have the
> upgraded synthesizer.
> 
> For an unmodified K3 the solution(s) are:
> 
> 1) turn on CW QRQ (and lose RIT/XIT/split)
> 2) Upgrade to the new synthesizer (x2 if sub RX is installed)
> 3) Use an external WinKeyer with dit compensation at 6 ms.
> 
> 73,
> 
>   ... Joe, W4TV
> 
> 
>> On 2020-12-07 8:47 AM, Dave Fugleberg wrote:
>> Does this become apparent only above a certain speed? I'm guessing it's not
>> as big an issue below 30wpm or so, but would be good to know.
>>> On Sun, Dec 6, 2020 at 10:23 PM  wrote:
>>> I have never heard of this issue until your post. In DX contests, dits
>>> sometimes disappear so we certainly to done want wimpy dits!  Does this
>>> issue also exist with the K3S? Is there a similar solution for those of us
>>> that use Writelog?
>>> 
>>> John KK9A
>>> 
>>> Dave Hachadorian K6LL wrote:
>>> 
>>> I found out today that there is another way to change weight under N1MM -
>>> config/ports/other tab/weight.
>>> 
>>> I wonder how many people do not realize that K3's  lighten CW keying
>>> applied
>>> 
>>> through the KEY jack, and that their dits are wimpy?  I operated that way
>>> for 12 years, until W3LPL told me about it yesterday.  The K3 monitor
>>> sounds
>>> 
>>> normal.
>>> 
>>> Life is too short for wimpy dits!
>>> 
>>> Dave Hachadorian, K6LL
>>> Yuma, AZ
>>> 
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Re: [Elecraft] my KPA1500 and 160M

[Barry Simpson]

This is an increasingly ungentlemanly debate.

I am not an engineer nor do I claim any expertise in or knowledge of the
subject under discussion.

However, after a very rapid Google search, the following website would
appear to provide some authoritative information.

Please note that I have only identified it from the subject heading and I
have not read it.

https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/4051871

Best regards to both of you.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ



On Thu, 3 Sep 2020 at 16:18, Adrian  wrote:

>
> Do you ever see slices of ferrite core used in capacitors, how do you
> think that would work  ?
>
> I bet you won't charge that one up.Putting metal laden material between
> charged poles is not a good idea.
>
> They usually stick to using a thin non metallic insulator with good
> insulation properties, otherwise known as a true dielectric.
>
>
> Ferrite cores are not a dielectric
>
>
>
> by David Gilbert ;
>
> >
> > Note the term "*ceramic*".  In what world do you live where ceramics
> > don't have dielectric properties?  Ever heard of ceramic capacitors?
> >
> >
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Issue

[Barry Simpson]

It sounds like an antenna connector problem .

Sent from my iPhone

> On 20 Jul 2020, at 02:53, w5...@comcast.net wrote:
> 
> ok I'm going to be answering several of your suggestions at once here.
> 
> First, when I powered off last night, I used the power button on the K3 
> itself, I did not kill the power supply first
> 
> The sub RX has been turned off and the RX Ant is NOT selected. Ant 1 is 
> selected and the Antenna IS plugged into the port
> 
> The is NO noise shown on the S meter and I have a pretty constant S3  to S5 
> noise here at my qth.
> 
> Regardless of mode selected there is no power output, the display says 0
> 
> When I activate the tuner, regardless of band, it shows no SWR, says 5 watts 
> out, but there is NO POWER OUT of it. It always acts like it is matching, or 
> sounds like it is.
> 
> Ronnie
> 
> -Original Message- From: Bill Frantz
> Sent: Sunday, July 19, 2020 11:40 AM
> To: w5...@comcast.net
> Cc: Ian Kahn ; Elecraft Reflector
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Issue
> 
> The K3 can get antennas in a bewildering collection of ways. If
> the RX antenna switch is on -- and this was my way of getting on
> reception -- it might be your problem. The K3 can also send
> received signals out on one of the BNC connectors and expect to
> get them back on another.
> 
> I recommend a careful reading of the manual, perhaps in PDF form
> with a search for "antenna". The manual is downloadable from the
> Elecraft web site.
> 
> 73 Bill AE6JV
> 
>> On 7/19/20 at 12:10 PM, w5...@comcast.net wrote:
>> 
>> yes sir.. using antenna port 1 and have it selected.  HOWEVER.. I did move 
>> the antenna to port 2 and selected that port to no improvement. Same issue
> 
> ---
> Bill Frantz| Privacy is dead, get over | Periwinkle
> (408)348-7900  | it.   | 150 Rivermead
> Rd #235
> www.pwpconsult.com |- Scott McNealy (1999) | Peterborough,
> NH 03458 
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Ronnie

I do not have a KPA1500 (only a KPA500) but I recall seeing posts from time
to time about noise emanating from KPA1500's.

I think you will need to check in with Elecraft on the issue.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On Sat, 9 May 2020 at 10:28,  wrote:

> Recently I have noticed that I have a very high noise lever at my QTH,
> which
> I have never had.  Today as I was shutting down my station I turned off
> the
> KPA1500 first, and my noise dropped from S7 to S1 instantly.
>
> I turned the Amp back on and the noise came back.  Have any of you ever
> observed this?
>
> Thanks in advance
>
> Ronnie W5SUM
>
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA 500 Attenuated Receive Signals

[Barry Simpson]

Thanks Don
That's what I thought. I will email them tomorrow.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On Sun, 8 Sep 2019 at 21:36, Don Wilhelm  wrote:

> Barry,
>
> I think you may find a problem in the KPA500 T/R switch area.
> Email supp...@elecraft.com for further checks and resolution.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 9/8/2019 2:34 AM, Barry Simpson wrote:
> > My KPA 500, which is several years old, has just developed an issue which
> > so far I have been unable to resolve.
> >
> > What has happened is that when I put the amplifier into OPER, the
> received
> > signal strength drops by several S units. It transmits normally and also
> > receives normally in STBY.
> >
>
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[Elecraft] KPA 500 Attenuated Receive Signals

[Barry Simpson]

My KPA 500, which is several years old, has just developed an issue which
so far I have been unable to resolve.

What has happened is that when I put the amplifier into OPER, the received
signal strength drops by several S units. It transmits normally and also
receives normally in STBY.

The issue occurred when I was changing rigs to use with the KPA500.
Specifically I connected a Ten Tec Omni 6 but I cannot see how that could
have caused the issue. However, the KPA500 now exhibits the same issue with
my TS990 which it never has before.

I believe that some considerable time ago, I did experience a similar
situation and after reading all the manuals etc I found a way to resolve
it. However, I have read the manual until I am blue in the face but I
cannot find an answer this time.

Of course I may have initiated a fault in the KPA500 but I would be
surprised as it has taken all the mistakes I have thrown at it over the
years and it has not so much as blinked.

Any suggestions on how to sort the issue out, or what damage I might have
caused to the switching circuitry, would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] K4 Beta Testers

[Barry Simpson]

Please can I volunteer to be a beta tester 😊

73

Barry  VK2BJ


On Thu, 6 Jun 2019 at 04:54, Leroy Buller  wrote:

> Are there any K4 Beta Testers out there yet?  If so, can we get reports or
> is that verboten?
>
> Lee K0WA
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Re: [Elecraft] [ELECRAFT] KPA500 NEW OWNER QUESTIONS.......

[Barry Simpson]

I have had my KPA500 for around 5 years. I frequently feed through 200w from my 
TS990S.

I have also accidentally abused it many times by putting 100w or more into it 
or using the wrong antenna or some such operator error.

It has always just faulted appropriately and come back up smiling.

It is a tough little cookie !

Barry VK2BJ 

Sent from my iPad

> On 1 Mar 2019, at 06:12, Bob McGraw K4TAX  wrote:
> 
> Yes, improperly or incorrectly using ALC with any amp or any transceiver, for 
> that matter,  can and usually does produce distortion and splatter.   Just 
> look at some of the signals on the bands and observe the ALC overshoot which 
> exists with many radios.   And it is made worse by the addition of an 
> amplifier in line. It isn't pretty!.   Yet it has little impact on the on 
> frequency signal as heard and thus the "great signal" complements follow. But 
> look at the other factors where you will find "NOT so great signal".   These 
> points should be addressed as well.
> 
> 73
> 
> Bob, K4TAX
> 
> 
>> On 2/28/2019 1:04 PM, j...@kk9a.com wrote:
>> I have not used ALC with any amplifier since transceivers switched to 
>> transistor finals. From what I have read on this list, using ALC improperly 
>> can cause distortion.  Just be very careful with your drive level. I believe 
>> that the KPA500 can handle 100 watts in bypass, 200 watts may be pushing it. 
>> The KPA500 is a very nice amp and it is easy to use with any transceiver.
>> 
>> GL,
>> John KK9A
>> 
>> 
>> JIM LAGESON N0UR wrote
>> _Thu Feb 28 13:07:27 EST 2019_
>> 
>> 
>> -
>> 
>> I have never owned an amp before and recently put together a KPA500. All
>> seems to be working well, but I have a few questions. I am using with a
>> IC-7300.
>> 
>> How important is the ALC cable? I notice it is not included in the Basic
>> Cabling Diagram in the manual but is discussed later in the manual.
>> 
>> If I were accidently to run 100 watts into the KPA500 will the PWRIN HI
>> Hard Fault/STBY protect itself before any damage is done. Would ALC protect
>> me from that?
>> 
>> Is it standard procedure to keep the KPA500 in line when turned off and not
>> in use? I see you may run up to 200 through the KPA500 in STBY.
>> 
>> Is there any concerns or settings on radio when running full break in on CW?
>> 
>> Thanks
>> Jim-N0UR
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[Elecraft] Orion II and P3

[Barry Simpson]

I have recently acquired an Orion II and I am looking to hook it up to my
P3.

I have got the details from VE7TK's website as regards the mods needed to
the Orion II and it looks fairly straightforward.

Before I go down that road, I wondered if anyone else is using or has used
that set up and if there are any hints/tips I should know about.

In answer to the unasked question, why have I bought an old Orion II.
Because I have ! I like playing with different rigs although the K3 and
TS990 are the two definite keepers.

I await any responses with interest.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 SWR Question3

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Ed

I recall having had a similar experience with my K3 some years ago,
although it wasn't on 40m. I think it was either 10 or 12m and related to
an antenna connected to the ANT 1 socket.

Eventually I tracked it down to having previously had an antenna connected
to the ANT 2 socket and having used the ATU in the K3 to tune it at that
time although I think that there was no antenna on ANT 2 when the problem
cropped up.

I believe that the feed through between ANT 1 and 2 sockets was sufficient
to give a false SWR reading on the K3.

It might be worth investigating this and possibly swapping over your
antenna/dummy load to the ANT 2 socket to see what happens.

I think I eventually just retuned the ATU on ANT 2 with a dummy load in
place and the problem went away.

Good luck.

Barry  VK2BJ

On Mon, 21 Jan 2019 at 04:17, Ed G  wrote:

> Hello,
>  My K3 is exhibiting some SWR meter behavior I don’t quite understand.
> To eliminate any possible effects of antennas or cabling, I hooked a
> Palstar DL2K dummy load directly to the K3 antenna connector. All bands
> except 40 meters seem fine, with SWR reading as you would expect with a
> dummy load. The anomaly I am seeing is that SWR as shown on the K3 meter
> looks fine at 7.01 MHz (approx. 1.2:1), but as I go up in frequency, the
> SWR as shown on the K3 meter rises. When I transmit into the dummy load on
> 7.298 MHz, the K3 meter reads almost 3:1.   I can switch in the K3 internal
> tuner and bring the SWR down to 1:1.
>  I also tried an older Cantenna dummy load with the same puzzling
> results.  Any ideas as to what may be causing this 40 meter only problem?
> I first noticed this problem during NAQP SSB when using my Steppir, which
> of course retunes itself as I change frequency. When going from the low
> part of the phone band to the high part on 40 meters, I noticed SWR
> increasing on the K3 meter, even though it was not increasing and stayed at
> 1.2:1 on my inline LP-100A.  The K3 also started to fold back power.  That
> prompted me to do the further testing with the dummy load as I discussed
> above.
> --Ed—
>
>
> Sent from Mail for Windows 10
>
>
>
>
> ---
> This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
> https://www.avast.com/antivirus
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Re: [Elecraft] SS Amp

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Dave

I had an SPE 1.5KFA for a few months.

I have also owned a KPA500 for around 4 or 5 years.

Despite the publicity blurb that says the SPE QSK is silent, it isn't. The
relay is quite noisy - at least if you are used to the totally silent
KPA500.

It is also difficult to control power wise. I wanted to run it at around
400 watts and for that you only need about 8 or 9 watts of drive so it is
difficult to control accurately.

I also found an unexpected quirk whereby using the amplifier affected my
transformer (not switch mode) in my Alinco 30A 12V power supply. In
sympathy with the keying, the transformer in the PSU kept making a groaning
noise that I have never had before. I have surmised that as the SPE has
power factor correction circuitry, that is somehow interacting with the
transformer. I didn't get the same effect with various switch mode power
supplies.

At the end of the day, I decided that the SPE was not for me and I sold it.
I much prefer the KPA500.

If you don't want the KPA1500 there is a very nice looking solid state amp
made in the UK by Linear Amp, the Gemini HF 1K. It has some really good
reviews on eHam and it appears to have silent QSK.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On Thu, 17 Jan 2019 at 13:06, Dave  wrote:

> I’m trying to decide on a SS amp. I already have the KPA500 and love it
> but the price for the KPA1500 is a bit above my budget. I am looking at the
> SPE 1.5K-FA which is about $1000 less. I like the fact that it has inputs
> for two radios and 4 antenna connections. Plus the power supply is built
> into the same box.  I know the response from this list will be pro Elecraft
> but any constructive or informative comments would be appreciated.
>
> Tnx es 73,
> Dave N8AG
>
>
> Sent from Mail for Windows 10
>
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[Elecraft] K3 CAT connection to SPE Amplifier information needed

[Barry Simpson]

Thank you to all those of you who replied to my earlier query regarding
band data information.

I am now also looking for a way to provide a CAT interface to the SPE
amplifier without using a separate computer program.

My set up is a K3 fully upgraded with the RJ45 serial port which connects
via the Elecraft custom cable to a P3.

Both connectors on the P3 are DB9, ie normal serial connectors.

As such, can I simply insert a further Y cable between one of the P3 serial
ports and the incoming cable from the K3 and then use the extra leg (with a
DB9 on the end) to connect to the SPE amplifier for CAT control ?

Or is that idea too simple ?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks and 73

Barry  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] K3 Band Data Information Needed

[Barry Simpson]

I want to interface my K3 with a newly acquired SPE 1.5KFA amplifier using
the band data available on the K3 Aux In/Out socket.

Elecraft refer to the data as Bands 1,2,3 and 0 whereas SPE (and other
manufacturers) call them Bands A,B,C and D.

Please can someone let me know if A,B,C,D = 1,2,3,0 or 0,1,2,3 or some
other sequence.

Thanks

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] An OCD thought about the KAT500

[Barry Simpson]

Well I have no issue with Mike’s comments. I am always having to find ways of 
making gear look nice and symmetrical.

It matters !

Barry VK2BJ 

Sent from my iPad

> On 28 Jun 2018, at 05:04, Michael Blake  wrote:
> 
> I received and completed my KAT500k this morning and I must say it is quite a 
> tuner.  Very nice indeed. Very capable.
> 
> As I integrated it into my K-Line station (K3s, P3 with TX Mon, SP3, KAT500) 
> I immediately noticed that the KAT500 does not have the same height feet on 
> it as any other cabinet in the K-Line.  Whatever it is placed next to it sits 
> a bit over 1/8” lower.
> 
> I realize that it probably does match the W2 wattmeter but with four other 
> SWR measuring devices (K3s, P3/TX Mon, KPA500, KAT500) I really didn’t plan 
> to buy one of those just to even up the cabinets :).
> 
> So for us OCD folks maybe it would be possible to include both height feet in 
> the kit so that it could match the rest of the product line when desired.
> 
> If you take a look at my picture on QRZ.com  you can clearly 
> see how it throws everything out of balance :)
> 
> Very 73 - Mike - K9JRI
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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[Elecraft] K3 Preamp 2

[Barry Simpson]

I often see posts from US stations questioning the need for any preamp below 
20m and just now challenging the need for preamp 2 on 10m.

That may be all well and good in the land of the huge antennas and the 
thousands of big signals from the US and Europe but let me tell you that down 
here, when you are scratching around for weak signals on 10m and 12m, preamp 2 
makes a world of difference.

Barry Simpson VK2BJ.

Sent from my iPad
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Re: [Elecraft] No Audio

[Barry Simpson]

Yes I did exactly what Lyle describes.

I was sure I had not done that when it was suggested to me by Elecraft when
I had the same problem.

But I had !!  I corrected it, no harm done and it then worked fine.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 27 March 2018 at 03:53, Lyle Johnson  wrote:

> When installing the DSP board,it is very easy to mis-align the 5-pin
> connector between the front panel board and the DSP board. This connector
> carries mic audio from the front panel microphone jack to the DSP.
>
> 73,
>
> Lyle KK7P
>
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Re: [Elecraft] Planning the next filters

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Craig

I would go for the 200Hz filters, not the 250Hz. I added the 200Hz to my
main and sub receivers (already have the 400Hz) and they are a really
worthwhile addition.

That's my opinion FWIW.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 9 March 2018 at 03:57, Craig Buck  wrote:

> Get the 1.8 if you work ssb.  Experiment with shifting the pass band for
> maximum clarity.  Youll be amazed just how narrow it can get and still be
> understandable.
>
> On Mar 8, 2018 11:24 AM, "Chuck Chandler"  wrote:
>
> > Right now I have the stock SSB and a 400 Hz filter in both main and sub
> > rcvrs.  I would like to add some a few at a time.  My first priority is
> to
> > add a couple to the main receiver, since it is the biggest chore to get
> > to.
> >
> > I plan on a 250 Hz CW filter, but am going back and forth between the 2.1
> > and 1.8 kHz filters.  I know that narrowing the DSP to 1.8 gives a really
> > difficult to understand voice signal, while the 2.1 allows in more
> adjacent
> > signals.  However, the roofing filters may not behave in the same manner.
> > For example, the 1.8 could be set to turn on at 2.1 to take advantage of
> > skirt shape.
> >
> > I primarily DX, and operate in some contests as well.  I know SSB
> contests
> > really need a narrow SSB filter.
> >
> > Any suggestions on the matter from those who have gone this route before?
> >
> > 73 de Chuck, WS1L
> >
> > --
> >
> >
> > ===
> > Chuck Chandler
> > chandler...@gmail.com
> > ===
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[Elecraft] Fwd: filters

[Barry Simpson]

Here's my take on filters.

I intended to send it to the reflector but realise that I sent it direct to
K9MA only.

Barry  VK2BJ
-- Forwarded message --
From: Barry Simpson 
Date: 1 January 2018 at 14:09
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] filters
To: K9MA 


I bought 200Hz filters for both main and sub receiver when I did a major
upgrade of my K3. I already had a 400Hz in the main receiver.

I would say from personal experience that the 200Hz filter is a very
worthwhile addition and makes a difference when the going gets tough.


Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

On 1 January 2018 at 13:39, K9MA  wrote:

> Assuming it's for a K3(s), I don't think you will find the 250 Hz filter
> very useful.  The response that both Elecraft and I measured shows that the
> narrow filter really isn't much better.  Were I to do it again, I would
> only use the 400 Hz ones.
>
> 73,
> Scott  K9MA
>
> On 12/31/2017 17:02, doug dietz wrote:
>
>> Guys
>> i ordered a 400hz filter by mistake.  I have use for a 200h or 1k, 18.k
>>   What ya got
>> doug49...@gmail.com  Doug WD8Z
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>
>
> --
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>
> k...@sdellington.us
>
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[Elecraft] K3 ERR 12V problem - fixed

[Barry Simpson]

Last week, I sought help on this reflector in relation to the ERR 12V
problem that my K3 had developed.

The several replies I received from three different continents all pointed
me the same way and Elecraft confirmed the diagnosis.

I ordered the parts on 22 December and they arrived in today's post late
morning. This afternoon, I undertook the necessary repairs involving
partial replacement of one of the KPA3 power connectors.

The progress was slightly impeded as I found that my Hako 808 desoldering
tool, which I had not used for several years, no longer worked. Thus I was
reduced to using my soldering iron and a small manual vacuum solder sucker.
I got there eventually !

The rig went back together without difficulty and has passed the initial
test into a dummy load with flying colours, maximum power being achieved on
all bands.

Tomorrow I will put it back into one of my operating positions.

Thanks to all who provided help and advice, to Elecraft with their super
fast response and to the US Postal Service and Australia Post who both
excelled over the Christmas period.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 ERR 12V problem

[Barry Simpson]

Thank you to everyone who replied with advice on my problem.

The advice all points one way so I will have a look at the KPA power
connection pins over the holiday period and then do the necessary repair
with replacemnt pins from Elecraft as required - or just hardwire them as
per one suggestion.

I will advise the outcome when I have resolved it.

Thanks again to all.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

On 17 December 2017 at 23:58, Drew AF2Z  wrote:

> I also have an early K3, ser nr apprx 400 earlier than yours. I got the
> ERR 12V fault a couple of months ago. As others have mentioned it was the
> KPA pins. They were not corroded so much as discolored. I replaced them
> and the two front panel connectors at the same time.
>
> There's a good blogpost and photos of the front panel connector
> replacement process at
>
> http://wb5bkl.blogspot.com/2012/07/elecraft-k3-p30-and-p35-
> replacement.html
>
> That should give you a good idea. It looks tedious with all those pins but
> it goes pretty quick if you use a solder sucker. A cheap spring-loaded one
> will do. Also, use an alligator clip to extract the cut pins from the board.
>
>
> 73,
> Drew
> AF2Z
>
>
>
> On 12/17/17 01:36, Barry Simpson wrote:
>
>> I have an early model K3 s/n 1397 which I built and which I upgraded
>> around
>> 12 months ago with the new synthesizers etc.
>>
>> It has the second receiver and numerous filters in both receivers.
>>
>> I have never had a moment's trouble with it since the original build in
>> around 2009 and since the big upgrade.
>>
>> However, a couple of weeks ago, I had an ERR 12V message come up in the
>> middle of a CQ and the rig stopped working. I simply turned it off and
>> back
>> on again and it seemed to be fixed.
>>
>> A little earlier today, I was calling CQ on 17m CW using the KPA 500 and
>> the ERR 12V occurred again.
>>
>> This time I read the manual and saw that it could be related to the  K3 PA
>> module.
>>
>> I powered off the rig again and checked to find that there was some new
>> firmware which I duly downloaded successfully. I then performed a TX gain
>> calibration at 5w and 50w and that was successful.
>>
>> I then did a band by band check of the maximum CW power out. All seemed
>> normal except for 24.9 MHz where the power out was around 130W - too high.
>>
>> However, as I was testing on 50.1 MHz the dreaded ERR 12V occurred again
>> and after a power down and restart the same thing.
>>
>> Before I enlist the help of Elecraft, can anyone point me in the right
>> direction to check for a short in the PA module. What should I be looking
>> at/for ?  The rig has not emitted any smoke nor has there been any burning
>> smells or unusual noises.
>>
>> Any pointers would be appreciated before I take the rig apart.
>>
>> Thanks and 73
>>
>> Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] K3 ERR 12V problem

[Barry Simpson]

I have an early model K3 s/n 1397 which I built and which I upgraded around
12 months ago with the new synthesizers etc.

It has the second receiver and numerous filters in both receivers.

I have never had a moment's trouble with it since the original build in
around 2009 and since the big upgrade.

However, a couple of weeks ago, I had an ERR 12V message come up in the
middle of a CQ and the rig stopped working. I simply turned it off and back
on again and it seemed to be fixed.

A little earlier today, I was calling CQ on 17m CW using the KPA 500 and
the ERR 12V occurred again.

This time I read the manual and saw that it could be related to the  K3 PA
module.

I powered off the rig again and checked to find that there was some new
firmware which I duly downloaded successfully. I then performed a TX gain
calibration at 5w and 50w and that was successful.

I then did a band by band check of the maximum CW power out. All seemed
normal except for 24.9 MHz where the power out was around 130W - too high.

However, as I was testing on 50.1 MHz the dreaded ERR 12V occurred again
and after a power down and restart the same thing.

Before I enlist the help of Elecraft, can anyone point me in the right
direction to check for a short in the PA module. What should I be looking
at/for ?  The rig has not emitted any smoke nor has there been any burning
smells or unusual noises.

Any pointers would be appreciated before I take the rig apart.

Thanks and 73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] Help needed to control KPA500

[Barry Simpson]

 I have been using my KPA500 for some years with my TS990. The TS990 USB
port runs my logging program, Turbolog 4, and the TS990 serial port is
connected to the KPA500 serial port for automatic band change. All works
well.

Very recently, I bought an SDRPlay RSP2 so I could have a better bandscope
display than the TS990's. As the SDR needs the USB port to operate, I had
to rejig the logging program arrangements such that I now run the logging
program from the TS990 serial port through an FTDI serial to USB adapter.
That works fine.

I then needed to adapt the arrangements to get the KPA500 working from the
TS990 serial port at the same time. After a few Google searches and
enquiries on the TS990 reflector, I obtained a serial port Y cable which
plugs into the TS990 with one branch of the Y going to the serial/USB
adapter for logging (works fine) and the other branch going to the KPA500
though a two wire circuit comprising pin 3 of the TS990 serial port to pin2
of the KPA500 through a 1N4148 with the cathode end to the KPA500 and pin 2
of the TS990 serial port through a 2.2k resistor to pin 2 of the KPA500
serial port. Pins 1,4 6 and pins 7,8 of the KPA500 serial port are wired
together.

I tried to post the circuit embedded in this email but the reflector owner
bounced it as being outside the guidelines. That is why my explanation is
so convoluted.

All appropriate baud rates and other KPA500 settings are correct but the
KPA500 simply does not do any band changes except if, for example, the
logging program drops out (which it does very occasionally) and I click the
mouse to reset it. Then the KPA500 jumps to the correct band. Presumably
the resetting of the logging program produces a pulse and that activates
the KPA500.

Obviously what I am doing is not the right way to go about the problem and
it would be appreciated if someone could put me on the right lines.

Many thanks

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] K3S SSB TX monitor

[Barry Simpson]

Richard

I do not believe that the K3 can do what you want. The monitor is either on
or off independently of whether you are listening through the speaker or
headphones.

If you mainly listen through the speaker, just turn the monitor to zero and
them turn it up when you wear headphones.

I think that is the only way.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 7 April 2017 at 06:53, Richard Lamont  wrote:

> My previous post might not have made it clear what I'm trying to achieve
> with the K3S.
>
> For RX audio, I usually listen on speakers. These mute when I plug the
> headphones in. That's standard and obvious and just what I want.
>
> When I'm using a voice mode with a microphone, I need the TX monitor
> audio to appear in the headphones and NOT the speakers.
>
> I need this to happen automatically, every time I plug in or unplug the
> headphones, without having to do anything else.
>
> Is there any way of configuring the rig to do precisely this?
>
> 73,
> Richard G4DYA
>
>
>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3: KFL3C-200 filter

[Barry Simpson]

I installed two of the new 200Hz filters in my K3 main and sub receivers a
few months ago as part of a major upgrade. Previously my narrowest filters
were the 400Hz.

I am very happy with the 200Hz filters and find them very good in contests
and pile up situations (when on the receiving end).

I generally operate split in such situations and transmit on VFO B and
receive on VFO A so that I can tune around the transmit frequency and pick
out stations with the very narrow filter.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 29 November 2016 at 10:39, N2TK, Tony  wrote:

> Tnx Ian,
> On 80 and 160M this past weekend had the filter bandwidth set at 200HZ
> most of the time due to the QRN. The NR helped a little. Just trying to
> find out if worth the money to buy the new 200 HZ filter if I would really
> know the difference.
>
> 73,
> N2TK, Tony
>
> -Original Message-
> From: glcazz...@alice.it [mailto:glcazz...@alice.it]
> Sent: Monday, November 28, 2016 6:00 PM
> To: N2TK, Tony ; elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: R: [Elecraft] K3: KFL3C-200 filter
>
> The new filter has 6 poles and steeper sides than the older filter thet
> have only 5 poles. On my K3s I have also the 500hz 5 poles. I excluded the
> 8 poles filter becouse on a previous experience on my old FT1000MP  with
> the great 400hz ‎paired filter by Inrad found them a little tiring on long
> listening - more poles, more ringing I think.
> I think that the new 200hz 6 poles is very good: I used it 48 hours CQ WPX
> and yesterday CQ WW CW, great radio and filters test,  without tiring my
> ears.
> Ian IK4EWX
>
> Invio eseguito dallo smartphone BlackBerry 10.
>   Messaggio originale
> Da: N2TK, Tony
> Inviato: lunedì 28 novembre 2016 23:22
> A: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Oggetto: [Elecraft] K3: KFL3C-200 filter
>
> My understanding is that the new 200 HZ filter is different than the old
> 200 HZ filter. Is this correct?
>
> If so, is the difference even possible to detect on the air?
>
>
>
> Tnx
>
> N2TK, Tony
>
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Re: [Elecraft] DSP/Audio upgrade for K3

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Grant

It is the K3DSPUPGD board. It is buried away but only on the Spare Parts
and Mod Kits page on the Elecraft website. I got one a few months ago when
I upgraded my K3 with all the other new boards as well.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

On 20 September 2016 at 10:19, GRANT YOUNGMAN  wrote:

> Anyone ever heard a fact or rumor (or conspiracy theory related to
> chemtrails) about what happened to the early advertised DSP board upgrade
> for the K3 that included the new low distortion AF amp in the K3S??
>
> It was announced as one of the upgrades that would be available for the
> K3.  Apparently still buried under the cone of silence … but it would be
> nice to have some definitive answer from Elecraft one way or the other.
>
> Grant NQ5T
> K3 #2091, KX3 #8342
>
>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] erratic vfo

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Chris

How old is your K3 ?

I built mine in 2008  (s/n 1397). It has all the "works" and I have
recently upgraded it with all the new boards available.

I have never experienced what you are suffering and I am running all of the
latest firmware and a KPod.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 19 September 2016 at 18:45, Chris Meagher  wrote:

> Hi Pete and the forum
>
> I have been having exactly the same problem.
> While rotating the VFO, it will suddenly jump to another frequency or band,
> usually this seems
> to be nearer the band edges. There is a relay click when there ought not to
> be one, then further on
> the 'jump' happens.
>
> I have been advised to use de-oxit spray on the front panel to motherboard
> pins, that did not work.
> The next advice from elecraft support was to replace the motherboard male
> pins with gold plated pins,
> I did this and it seemed to be effective for a few days, but then the
> erratic behaviour returned, exactly the same symptoms.
> 200MHz is a frequently jumped to point, and when i turn off the rig and
> back on, it always goes to 28MHz band.
>
> I am suspecting that something in newer firmware is incompatible with the
> older K3's,
> but have no way to confirm this.
>
> I understand your frustration, I have the same sense of disappointment, and
> wonder what to do,
> I have been going back to my K2 as it is totally trouble free.
>
> Chris
> VK2ACD
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Re: [Elecraft] KPod stopped working

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Randy

>From your description, it sounds as though you are hooking up a USB cable
(to something) as well as the cable to the K3 itself.

The power for the Kpod comes through the data cable from the rig so extra
power should not be needed.

Have you updated your K3 to firmware version 5.50 or later ?  Otherwise it
will not work. Likewise you need to upgrade K3 Utility to 1.16.3.11 or
later so you can program the K3 with macros.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 30 August 2016 at 05:03, Randy Lake  wrote:

> I just hooked up the Kpod and and get no response to any functions. I read
> through the instructions again but am obviously missing something. The data
> cable is firmly in place and power is from USB.
> K3  Ver 5.50
> Any thoughts?
> Randy N1KWF
>
> --
> Randy Lake N1KWF
> 73 Gunn Rd.
> Keene,NH
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Band Tracking

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Edward

I am buying into this thread somewhat late. However, I did not see a
particular suggestion which has previously caused me similar problems.

Have you, inadvertently or otherwise, changed the "radio" setting in the
KPA500 menu?  It should be set as K3. If it isn't, you will get some
strange effects.

I also had a problem when the K3 to KPA500 suffered a broken conductor.

So it could be either.

The new leads from Elecraft are much better and more flexible than the ones
originally available when the KPA500 first came out.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 8 August 2016 at 10:21, Dauer, Edward  wrote:

> I appreciate your having written, Cliff; and it is the case that 30 meters
> is an oddball.  Just as the K3 is booby-trapped to prevent transmitting out
> of band, it could very well have been that adding 30 meters to the working
> bands would have required some special consideration to keep the amp from
> violating the power limitations.
>
> Thanks again,
>
> Ted, KN1CBR
>
>
> On 8/7/16, 6:10 PM, "Cliff Frescura"  wrote:
>
> I think I jumped the gun and was wrong.
>
> 73,
>
> Cliff K3LL/6
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] Power has disappeared, additional info.

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Chris

It sounds as if you have put the rig into Test mode - the middle button on
the far left of the front panel.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 27 July 2016 at 21:34, Chris Kimball  wrote:

> Thanks to all who responded.  Alas, the problem continues.
>
> Let me respond to the queries to date:
>
> 1. The rig is a recent K3S (100W).
> 2. The KPAT is on, "PA nor".
> 3. The circuit breaker seems fine.  No red showing on button, button feels
> loose.
> 4. Operation is into a dummy load, without wattmeter.
>
> I've tried using the TUNE button, setting the TUN PWR level to 20W. On
> pushing TUNE, the panel says 0 W, even though it was set to 20W.
>
> In CW mode, the ALC shows reasonable ALC movement on CW sending.  RF output
> remains at 1 segment.
>
> Note: No error message has been received of any kind.  All operation, other
> than RF output, is fine.
>
> The last contact I had before leaving on the trip was on SSB just to set up
> the mike. All worked fine on 20 m.  Perhaps I "hit" something in playing
> with SSB.
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> View this message in context:
> http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Power-has-disappeared-tp7620735p7620748.html
> Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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[Elecraft] Fwd: K3 - communication failure after KIO3B upgrade

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Carl

Did you get the KIO3B problem resolved ?

Barry  VK2BJ


-- Forwarded message --
From: Barry Simpson 
Date: 17 July 2016 at 13:03
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 - communication failure after KIO3B upgrade
To: Carl Clawson 
Cc: Lyle Johnson , elecraft 


Hi Carl

Have you actually set RS232 to USB in the Config menu ?  Just a thought.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 17 July 2016 at 11:47, Carl Clawson  wrote:

> Thanks Lyle. I tried those things. If it's a cable problem then I must have
> TWO defective cables, because feeding RS232 to the P3 and connecting the
> single-headed cable to the K3 also results in no communications to the K3.
> And yes, I put the K3 in RS232 mode at 38400 baud when I tried that.
>
> -- Carl
>
> On Sat, Jul 16, 2016 at 5:52 PM, Lyle Johnson  wrote:
>
> > Carl,
> >
> > A couple of thoughts.
> >
> > 1) Losing communications with the Y cable plugged into the KIO3B but not
> > having BOTH DE-9 connectors attached to the P3 will result in no
> > communications.  The KIO3B senses the Y cable and routes the USB side
> > communications to the P3 which then routes signals to the K3.
> >
> > 2) Be sure the cable is fully seated into the jack on the KIO3B. The
> > plastic lock should "click" into place.  You can verify this with a
> gentle
> > tug on the cable after it is inserted to verify it is fully seated.
> >
> > 3) Be sure the P3 is set to 38,400 bps on its serial ports.
> >
> > 4) If the cable is fully seated and the P3 is set to 38,400 bps and you
> > still have the problem, I'd suspect the Y cable being defective.  I don;t
> > know if the schematics for the cable are on the website or supplied with
> > the cable to assist you in troubleshooting the cable if you so desire, so
> > it may require a call to support on Monday, or an email directly to them.
> >
> > 73,
> >
> > Lyle KK7P
> >
> >
> > Maybe the combined wisdom of the group will be able to help before I send
> >> this to Elecraft support.
> >>
> >> I installed the KIO3B upgrade in my K3. The USB interface from PC to K3
> >> works but only if you don't plug a cable in the RS232/P3 jack. The RS232
> >> connection to the P3 isn't happening...
> >>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 - communication failure after KIO3B upgrade

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Carl

Have you actually set RS232 to USB in the Config menu ?  Just a thought.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 17 July 2016 at 11:47, Carl Clawson  wrote:

> Thanks Lyle. I tried those things. If it's a cable problem then I must have
> TWO defective cables, because feeding RS232 to the P3 and connecting the
> single-headed cable to the K3 also results in no communications to the K3.
> And yes, I put the K3 in RS232 mode at 38400 baud when I tried that.
>
> -- Carl
>
> On Sat, Jul 16, 2016 at 5:52 PM, Lyle Johnson  wrote:
>
> > Carl,
> >
> > A couple of thoughts.
> >
> > 1) Losing communications with the Y cable plugged into the KIO3B but not
> > having BOTH DE-9 connectors attached to the P3 will result in no
> > communications.  The KIO3B senses the Y cable and routes the USB side
> > communications to the P3 which then routes signals to the K3.
> >
> > 2) Be sure the cable is fully seated into the jack on the KIO3B. The
> > plastic lock should "click" into place.  You can verify this with a
> gentle
> > tug on the cable after it is inserted to verify it is fully seated.
> >
> > 3) Be sure the P3 is set to 38,400 bps on its serial ports.
> >
> > 4) If the cable is fully seated and the P3 is set to 38,400 bps and you
> > still have the problem, I'd suspect the Y cable being defective.  I don;t
> > know if the schematics for the cable are on the website or supplied with
> > the cable to assist you in troubleshooting the cable if you so desire, so
> > it may require a call to support on Monday, or an email directly to them.
> >
> > 73,
> >
> > Lyle KK7P
> >
> >
> > Maybe the combined wisdom of the group will be able to help before I send
> >> this to Elecraft support.
> >>
> >> I installed the KIO3B upgrade in my K3. The USB interface from PC to K3
> >> works but only if you don't plug a cable in the RS232/P3 jack. The RS232
> >> connection to the P3 isn't happening...
> >>
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Re: [Elecraft] logging/k3s control program

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Jerry

I have used Turbolog 4 for many years and this covers all of your requirements 
except full rig control. However, my experience is that it is better to use a 
separate dedicated program for contests. I use SD for all contesting and it is 
very simple to export the SD log to TL4.

73

BTW I always get immediate responses from the designers/purveyors of both 
programs to any problems or queries that I have and both continue to be updated 
regularly.

Sent from my iPad

> On 5 Jun 2016, at 05:39, Jerry  wrote:
> 
> Now that I have been operating my K3S for several months 'barefoot' (no 
> computer) I realize I need a logging/control program. In searching the 
> interwebby one can be overwhelmed with the myriad of software available. I 
> would appreciate any input for my needs. I apologize if the following are 
> pretty much standard in all programs.
> 
> 1)  I am primarily a dx chaser so a comprehensive log program should 
> include auto matching to notify me if I have already worked a station and 
> keep track of dxcc by band.
> 
> 2)  It should have a field for entering notes (perhaps user defined 
> fields?)
> 
> 3)  It should support cw, rtty & some digital modes - which ones? I 
> haven't a clue as I have never used a digital mode but intend to.
> 
> 4)  It should have support for contest operating.
> 
> 5)  It should be able to auto dump to LOTW.
> 
> 6)  I should be able to export the entire database in some readable form 
> (suitable for Excel, etc)
> 
> 7)  It should be able to fully control the k3s/p3 (or is this something I 
> should have a separate program for?)
> 
> To me it seems this is the list I need but the problem is I'm not confident 
> that I even know all the right questions to ask :(
> 
> Any suggestions would be appreciated.
> 
> Thanks
> Jerry, k1tgx
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 RX Attenuation and TX Without Amp Key

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Mark

I can relate to what you are experiencing with the KPA500.

You do not mention which rig you are using to drive the KPA500 or how you
have the transmit switching configured.

I bought a new TS590SG some months ago and set it up using the solid state
switching which on the face of it is exactly the same as the TS990 which
works perfectly with the KPA500.

However, with the TS590SG, all it did was exactly as you describe. What is
happening is that the transmit switching arrangement - whatever it is that
you are using - puts the KPA500 permanently in a transmit state and then it
works normally to amplify the signal when you key the rig (or horror of
horrors speak into the microphone.

If by any chance you are using a TS590SG you can test the amplifier for
correct operation by changing to the relay switching rather than solid
state.

In my case, the matter was resolved after some liaison between the
Australian Kenwood Service Centre and Elecraft determined that the pull up
or pull down resistor ( I can't remember which it was) in the TS590SG was
too low such that it put the KPA500 permanently in a transmit state.
Kenwood simply increased the resistor appropriately and now it works fine
just like the TS990.

I hope that might point you in the right direction.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 16 November 2015 at 07:24, Mark Goldberg  wrote:

> I will contact Elecraft tomorrow, but posting in case someone
> recognizes the symptoms.
>
> I just put together a new KPA500 kit. When I select Operate, the RX
> through the amplifier is significantly attenuated, many 10s of dBs.
> The amp will also amplify even with nothing connected to the PA Key
> RCA jack. It seems to amplify OK, 35W in gives 400W out. In Standby
> the RX and TX pass through the amp as expected.
>
> It seems to me that it thinks PA Key is enabled all of the time, so
> when I switch to operate it is in TX mode immediately. I do not see a
> short at the RCA jack.
>
> Any idea of what is going on?
>
> Mark
> W7MLG
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[Elecraft] KSYN3A and QSK

[Barry Simpson]

I am thinking of further upgrading my venerable K3 S/N 13** by installing
the new synthesizer boards. I have already fitted the KXV3B which is
fantastic as regards the receive preamp on 12, 10 and 6.

My question is does the installation of the KSYN3A retain the two grades of
QSK (normal and fast) or is it now always fast ? Also doess it still work
fast with RIT on etc ?

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

Currently operating from on holiday in Vanuatu as YJ0BJ using said K3
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Re: [Elecraft] Miniature self-supporting HF antennas

[Barry Simpson]

My practical experience is that miniature antennas do not work very well.
You end up with a miniature signal which is not much use with QRP.

I recently operated from Vanuatu as YJ0BJ and I used a Steppir CrankIR
vertical for 10 - 40m.  It worked very well indeed and whilst it does not
assemble in two minutes, it does all pack away in the carry bag provided.
However, you need a mounting post, fence post or something to mount it on.

My holiday location was almost on the beach so arguably I had the salt
water benefit. However, I have tried it here at home, now with the 80m
extender kit (still all packs in the one bag) and it works OK.

I will be on again from YJ0BJ in November 10 - 80m. The rig will again be
my K3. See the photos and write up on my YJ0BJ QRZ page.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 20 July 2015 at 15:31, Jim Brown  wrote:

> On Sun,7/19/2015 9:52 PM, David Gilbert wrote:
>
>> It's not going to radiate any lower than the horizon, and that kind of
>> low angle is extremely useful for long distances.  That can be appropriate
>> even for QRP, although it might be more propagation dependent versus making
>> some high angle short skip contacts.  If I want to see how far I can work
>> when backpacking, I'm going with a vertical unless the ground conductivity
>> is just plain awful.
>>
>
> The soil conductivity on most high mountaintops IS just plain awful. :)
> BUT -- there's nothing like having your antenna on a 3,000 ft tower, even
> if it is made of rock. When you get there, almost anything works, and
> anything decent works really well.
>
> W6GJB has a "go-kit" for his KX3 that includes a simple telescoping
> antenna that mounts to a tripod with a coax connector in the base, and a
> couple of wire radials that can be tossed into surrounding vegetation if
> there is any, or lay on the ground if there is not. Last summer as a site
> survey for FD, we set that up at Berryessa Peak (70 miles N of SF), and in
> about ten minutes, made three contest-style CW Qs to JA, SA, and the east
> coast of the US.
>
> Spiderbeam sells a 40ft (12M) telescoping fiberglass pole that weighs 7#
> and collapses to 3ft-10in. About $135 with shipping from TN).
>
> For about the same price, there's the DK9SQ 33 ft carbon fibre pole that
> collapses to 3.8 ft and weighs 2.2#. I used one of those with my K2 at my
> old Chicago club's annual QRP night in a local park. A photo is on my
> qrz.com page. I taped a #22 wire to it, wedged it between the seat and
> the top of the picnic bench (at roughly a 45 degree angle), and laid out
> two more wires as radials. Running 5W on 30M, I easily made a half dozen
> QSOs, including one that was a Caribbean station running a pileup.
>
> I agree that the Alex Loop, as well as home brew versions of it, can be a
> pretty decent backpacking antenna. W6GJB also has one of those.
>
> 73, Jim K9YC
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[Elecraft] KXV3B install - no problems

[Barry Simpson]

I have just completed installing the KXV3B in my K3 s/n 1397. It already
had a KXV3 in it (and a sub receiver which had to be removed and put back)
and I am pleased to report that it all went together quite easily.

I updated the firmware to the required beta version and the new preamp 2
seems to work perfectly although no signals yet heard on 6/10/12m.

I was initially troubled by the pre flashing on the display and thought
there was some fault. However, I assume that it is an indicator that Pre 2
is turned on. Please can you remove that feature as I find it mildly
irritating.

Mine is an early serial number K3 that I built around August/September 2008
and until installing the KXV3B today, I had not even taken the top cover
off for several years. It was a pleasant surprise to find the interior of
the K3 looking absolutely pristine and dust free, other than for a very
light coating on the PA heat sink, which I cleaned off. I also took the
opportunity of replacing the battery (the original) although the voltage
still showed 2.97 after all that time when I tested it.


73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] Issues with TS590SG and KPA500 - the outcome

[Barry Simpson]

I have already posted details of the issues I have experienced trying to
interface my brand new TS590SG with my KPA500.

The TS590SG has different linear amplifier switching arrangements from the
TS590S and these mimic the TS990. Specifically Menu 59  #4 provides solid
state grounding via pin 7 of the remote connector for switching linears. I
use this method with my TS990 and it works fine. However, it does not work
with the TS590SG and the KPA500 goes into the transmit state permanently
once it is put into the operate position.

The relay switching Menu 59 #2 works very well but it is noisy.

Feedback I have received suggested that I try a diode in series with the
keying line. I tried it but absolutely no difference. Another suggestion
was a pull up resistor but I wasn't sure what to install and where.

Clearly in its original state, the solid state switching is incompatible
with the KPA500.

I have now reverted to the method I used with my earlier TS590S which is a
single transistor switch - a 2N3904 and a 2.2K resistor squeezed into the
shell of the Din plug. The connection to the TS590SG is via Pin 7 and the
setting is #1 which provides +12v on transmit which is what the TS590S also
does.

Suffice to say that this solution works perfectly and silence now reigns
again.

Hopefully either Kenwood or Elecraft will devise a simple solution to the
problem in due course.

Just an update which others may find of some help.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Issue

[Barry Simpson]

Good morning to those who responded to me on the Elecraft reflector. Here
is the interim outcome.

I did not mention that the problem arose after connecting my brand new
(yesterday) TS590SG to the KPA500.  The TS590SG has different linear
switching facilities from the TS590S in that there is now provision for
solid state switching to avoid a clicking relay. I was using the solid
state switching set up. I use the same set up with my TS990S and that works
perfectly with the KPA500.

I checked and resoldered the connecting cable and then I interchanged the
cable I use with the TS990S as the Din pin connections are identitical with
the TS590SG. The outcome was exactly the same with the loss of received
signals when the KPA500 is switched to Oper and the little asterisk appears
on the left side of the display. However, the set up still keys the KPA500
perfectly.

I then changed over to the TS990S and with that rig, the KPA500 works
perfectly with the solid state switching.

The conclusion is therefore that from an initial OK position in Stby and
Oper as soon as the first character is keyed, the solid state switch in the
TS590SG "hangs" resulting in the KPA500 being permanently in the transmit
state. The situation only clears when rig and amp are turned off, the Din
plug is removed from the TS590SG and reinserted and both are turned back
on. I can then switch the amp back to Oper and all is fine until the very
first morse character when it all happens again.  So as it stands, there
appears to be incompatibility between the TS590SG solid state amp switch
and KPA500.

As an interim measure, I have rewired the Din plug to use the noisy relay
for the amp control and that works fine. The TS590SG does output 12V to the
solid state switching pin in certain configurations as did the TS590S. I
had a TS590S and I wired a single transistor solid state switch inside the
Din plug and that worked perfectly so I am going to do the same again,
which should solve the issue. Unfortunately, I gave away the TS590S cable I
had made up to the guy I sold the TS590S to. I never got the very bad spike
issue fixed but the buyer did not mind as he doesn't use a linear.

It really is a pity as I thought that the new linear switching circuitry in
the TS590SG was a real step forward but it is not to be, at least not with
the KPA500.

For information and to avoid others having a similar head scratching issue,
I am copying this to the TS590 list as well. As a final point, I can
confirm that the TS590SG has no power spike issue whatsoever and the
average audio level in SSB seems much improved from the TS590S.

Once I have wired and implemented the transistor switch, I will report back
with the result.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 31 January 2015 at 00:34, Mike K2MK  wrote:

> Hi Barry,
>
> There is an asterisk that appears on the left side of the KPA500 display
> whenever the key out signal from your transmitter is present. You should
> not
> see the asterisk when you are receiving. If you are then is it possible
> that
> you are using the key out signal to operate some other device in addition
> to
> the KPA500?
>
> 73,
> Mike K2MK
>
>
> Barry Simpson wrote
> > My KPA500 has just developed an issue. Specifically when I switch it from
> > Stby to Oper, the level of received signals drops by around 5 or 6 s
> > points. It still transmits fine and there are no adverse SWR indications
> > or
> > loose co-ax plugs. It does the same on all bands. I switch back to Stby
> > and
> > the received signals return to normal.
> >
> > I seem to recall that someone else posted details of a similar such
> > problem
> > some time ago. Any suggestions would be helpful before I email the
> > Elecraft
> > hot line.
> >
> > Barry Simpson   VK2BJ
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> View this message in context:
> http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA500-Issue-tp7597707p7597710.html
> Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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[Elecraft] KPA500 Issue

[Barry Simpson]

My KPA500 has just developed an issue. Specifically when I switch it from
Stby to Oper, the level of received signals drops by around 5 or 6 s
points. It still transmits fine and there are no adverse SWR indications or
loose co-ax plugs. It does the same on all bands. I switch back to Stby and
the received signals return to normal.

I seem to recall that someone else posted details of a similar such problem
some time ago. Any suggestions would be helpful before I email the Elecraft
hot line.

Barry Simpson   VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] KUSB - Urgent

[Barry Simpson]

Good afternoon (it's Sunday afternoon and 35 degrees C here)

Please see my email below - panic over !!

I trawled through the websites of various local computer and electronics
suppliers and found that Jaycar - a big Australian electronic parts
retailer with lots of branches - apparently had a USB to Serial convertor
that works with Windows 8 and 8.1.

So I just went and bought one and lo and behold it was absolutely plug and
play. The K3 and Windows 8.1 are playing happily together again.

Interestingly the convertor appears to have a Prolific chip as the Jaycar
website has a link (from the details of this particular item) to Prolific
where details of all the various Prolific chips are shown together with
their compatability with the various versions of Windows.

I am also forwarding this to the reflector in case any of my VK friends are
having similar problems.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 25 October 2014 18:28, Barry Simpson  wrote:

> Good afternoon
>
> My Prolific KUSB has been working satisfactorily for years with various
> computers up to and including Windows 7.
>
> However, I have just bought a small Windows 8 laptop to take on holiday
> for use with my K3 and the KUSB won't work with it.
>
> I think that your new KUSB's with the FTDI chips do work with Windows 8.
> If this is the case, how quickly can you ship one to me by the fastest air
> mail possible as I am going on holiday in just over two weeks.
>
> I await your urgent reply.
>
> 73
>
> Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
>
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Barry Simpson]

Good suggestion Jim.

However, I tried turning the mains power switch (on the back of the KPA500)
off and on and that appears to have cured whatever the problem was. Now
back at full power.

Thanks for your input.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 26 September 2014 06:20, Jim Brown  wrote:

> On Thu,9/25/2014 1:16 PM, Barry Simpson wrote:
>
>> Before I delve into the manual, has anyone any ideas ?
>>
>
> Put in a Skype call to Elecraft support?
>
> 73, Jim K9YC
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[Elecraft] KPA500 Problem

[Barry Simpson]

Good morning all

My hitherto bomb proof KPA500 has just failed.

I went to 40m SSB to chase some DX. I pre-tuned the KAT500 via the K3 tune
facility and then called the DX.

During the call, the KAT500 started its continuous retuning issue (I
thought that problem had been resolved but apparently not) and the KPA500
tripped out.

The DX station still heard me and I worked him with what proved to be about
25w.

I then tried to reset the KPA500 but it will not go into transmit in the
Operate position and simply passes through the 25w driving power from the
K3.

There was no bang, smoke or burning smell and the PA voltage is still there.

Before I delve into the manual, has anyone any ideas ?

Thanks

Barry  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] KAT500 Firmware Upgrade

[Barry Simpson]

I have just upgraded my KAT500 to the latest Beta firmware.

The release notes suggested that it would now follow band changes
automatically using Kenwood equipment but they were less than explicit.

I have my TS990 connected to my KPA500 which in turn is connected to the
KAT500.

The KPA500 follows the TS990 band changes but the KAT500 still does not and
only operates via RF sensing.

Did I read something into the release notes that was not really there or
should the KAT500 now follow the TS990 band changes ?

Any comments from people in the know would be appreciated.

For the avoidance of doubt, the KAT500 changes bands automatically when I
use my K3.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] Fwd: TS-990

[Barry Simpson]

And I can't even get my own callsign correct 

73 again

Barry Simpson   VK2BJ

-- Forwarded message --
From: Barry Simpson 
Date: 5 June 2013 06:57
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] TS-990
To: Phil Hystad 
Cc: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" 


I am not sure why happy K3 owners want to keep trying to ridicule the TS990.

I am a happy K3 owner and have been for over four years. I am also a happy
owner of a TS590, and TS2000.

Now I am a happy owner of a TS990.

Despite the critical comments regarding its size and the Rob Sherwood
numbers, it is a magnificent piece of equipment with certainly more and/or
more convenient facilities than the K3.

In practice, there is no material difference between being able to receive
signals on the TS990, TS590 and K3. I bought it because I like Kenwood as
well as Elecraft and I have had great past experience with previous Kenwood
rigs including the TS930.

The visual appearance and ergonomics appealed to me as well as the
functions and facilities and I have not been disappointed.

So there you are guys - it's horses for courses. I have four rigs and will
be keeping and using them all. So please give some thought before making
critical and sarcastic comments about competitors' equipment that you have
not used. I have not seen any similar type of comments on Kenwood
reflectors regarding Elecraft equipment.

I also have a KPA500 and KAT500 and previously built a K2.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BH


On 4 June 2013 14:40, Phil Hystad  wrote:

> I saw a TS-990 at the SeaPac hamfest this last Saturday.  It is an
> absolutely huge beast of a radio.  I think the largest modern rig I have
> ever seen and maybe larger than any amateur transceiver ever built (maybe).
>  Looking at the better performing K3 in size and simplicity compared to the
> beast TS-990, the K3 is truly an elegant radio.
>
> 73, phil, K7PEH
>
>
> On Jun 3, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Fred Smith  wrote:
>
> > Interesting we now can see where all the money went..into the knobs
> 8>).
> >
> > I bet some wish they would have waited, a fully loaded K3 is a lot less
> > money and look at the performance.
> >
> >
> > 73,
> > Fred/N0AZZ
> > K3 Ser #'s 6730/5299--KX3 # 2573--K2/100--KAT100
> > P3/SVGA--KPA500--KAT500--W2
> >
> >
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
> > [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bob Locher
> > Sent: Monday, June 03, 2013 1:54 PM
> > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> > Subject: [Elecraft] TS-990
> >
> > I see that the TS990 has been reviewed by Rob Sherwood at:
> >
> > http://www.sherweng.com/table.html
> >
> > Interesting reading!
> >
> > Cheers/73
> >
> > Bob W9KNI
> >
> > __
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> > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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> >
> > -
> > No virus found in this message.
> > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
> > Version: 2013.0.2904 / Virus Database: 3184/6379 - Release Date: 06/03/13
> >
> > -
> > No virus found in this message.
> > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
> > Version: 2013.0.2904 / Virus Database: 3184/6379 - Release Date: 06/03/13
> >
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Re: [Elecraft] TS-990

[Barry Simpson]

I am not sure why happy K3 owners want to keep trying to ridicule the TS990.

I am a happy K3 owner and have been for over four years. I am also a happy
owner of a TS590, and TS2000.

Now I am a happy owner of a TS990.

Despite the critical comments regarding its size and the Rob Sherwood
numbers, it is a magnificent piece of equipment with certainly more and/or
more convenient facilities than the K3.

In practice, there is no material difference between being able to receive
signals on the TS990, TS590 and K3. I bought it because I like Kenwood as
well as Elecraft and I have had great past experience with previous Kenwood
rigs including the TS930.

The visual appearance and ergonomics appealed to me as well as the
functions and facilities and I have not been disappointed.

So there you are guys - it's horses for courses. I have four rigs and will
be keeping and using them all. So please give some thought before making
critical and sarcastic comments about competitors' equipment that you have
not used. I have not seen any similar type of comments on Kenwood
reflectors regarding Elecraft equipment.

I also have a KPA500 and KAT500 and previously built a K2.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BH


On 4 June 2013 14:40, Phil Hystad  wrote:

> I saw a TS-990 at the SeaPac hamfest this last Saturday.  It is an
> absolutely huge beast of a radio.  I think the largest modern rig I have
> ever seen and maybe larger than any amateur transceiver ever built (maybe).
>  Looking at the better performing K3 in size and simplicity compared to the
> beast TS-990, the K3 is truly an elegant radio.
>
> 73, phil, K7PEH
>
>
> On Jun 3, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Fred Smith  wrote:
>
> > Interesting we now can see where all the money went..into the knobs
> 8>).
> >
> > I bet some wish they would have waited, a fully loaded K3 is a lot less
> > money and look at the performance.
> >
> >
> > 73,
> > Fred/N0AZZ
> > K3 Ser #'s 6730/5299--KX3 # 2573--K2/100--KAT100
> > P3/SVGA--KPA500--KAT500--W2
> >
> >
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
> > [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bob Locher
> > Sent: Monday, June 03, 2013 1:54 PM
> > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> > Subject: [Elecraft] TS-990
> >
> > I see that the TS990 has been reviewed by Rob Sherwood at:
> >
> > http://www.sherweng.com/table.html
> >
> > Interesting reading!
> >
> > Cheers/73
> >
> > Bob W9KNI
> >
> > __
> > Elecraft mailing list
> > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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> >
> >
> > -
> > No virus found in this message.
> > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
> > Version: 2013.0.2904 / Virus Database: 3184/6379 - Release Date: 06/03/13
> >
> > -
> > No virus found in this message.
> > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
> > Version: 2013.0.2904 / Virus Database: 3184/6379 - Release Date: 06/03/13
> >
> > __
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 and KAT500 with Kenwood

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Dick

Thank you very much for your detailed explanation.

The methodologies for the auto band switching of the KAT500 are too complex
for me so I will have to stick with the RF sensing, except of course when I
use the K3  !!

Thanks again for your response. It really is appreciated.

73

Barry Simpson   VK2BJ

On 31 March 2013 01:42, Dick Dievendorff  wrote:

> Barry:
>
> The KPA500 has a dedicated serial port for its PC connection and another
> dedicated serial connector for connection to a Kenwood radio.
>
> The KAT500 has one serial port, which is intended for connection to a PC.
>
> The strategy we'd planned for the KAT500 is to band switch on Tx signal or
> the BAND lines on the ACC connector, and the KAT500 does that
> automatically.
>
>
> But as you point out, KPA500 performs band switch when it receives a serial
> Kenwood command, and the KAT500 waits for a transmitted signal.
>
> There are a couple of strategies:
>
> I've heard of small microcontroller projects that listen to a Kenwood radio
> serial connection and set the 4 BAND lines on the accessory connector to
> band switch.
>
> An alternative might be a microcontroller that has two serial ports, one
> that accepts (or at least tolerates) the Kenwood command set, and another
> serial port that emits the KAT500 command needed to change frequenices.
>
> While RS-232 is not a "bus" system, you can sometimes Tee off a listener.
>
> I did implement a KAT500 command that accepts FA with an 11-digit
> frequency,
> down to the Hz, and when the KAT500 receives that command, it performs a
> "memory recall tune" for that frequency.  This was done for a colleague who
> is working on a Kenwood implementation.
>
> But we didn't design the KAT500 to accept the complete Kenwood command set.
> If the Kenwood radio happens to send a command like "AN1;", the KAT500 will
> switch antennas to its ANT1.
>
> 73 de Dick, K6KR
>
>
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
> [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Barry Simpson
> Sent: Saturday, March 30, 2013 1:36 PM
> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: [Elecraft] KPA500 and KAT500 with Kenwood
>
> Good morning
>
> I have been using my TS590 with the serial cable connected to the KPA500
> and
> that works nicely to change bands automatically once set up in the menu.
>
> The KPA500 is also connected to my KAT500 using the K3 cables (they are
> simply left in place and the K3 is switched off when using the TS590).
>
> However, with the TS590, the KAT500 does not change bands as the KPA500
> does, other than with RF sensing. So I have the situation where the KPA500
> does change bands with the TS590 but the KAT500 doesn't.
>
> Does anyone know if there is a way to implement auto band change on the
> KAT500 with Kenwood equipment so that it changes at the same time as the
> KPA500 ?
>
> I await any responses with interest.
>
> Thanks and 73
>
>
> Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] KPA500 and KAT500 with Kenwood

[Barry Simpson]

Good morning

I have been using my TS590 with the serial cable connected to the KPA500
and that works nicely to change bands automatically once set up in the menu.

The KPA500 is also connected to my KAT500 using the K3 cables (they are
simply left in place and the K3 is switched off when using the TS590).

However, with the TS590, the KAT500 does not change bands as the KPA500
does, other than with RF sensing. So I have the situation where the KPA500
does change bands with the TS590 but the KAT500 doesn't.

Does anyone know if there is a way to implement auto band change on the
KAT500 with Kenwood equipment so that it changes at the same time as the
KPA500 ?

I await any responses with interest.

Thanks and 73


Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] KAT500 problem

[Barry Simpson]

Thanks Gary

I have messed and fiddled and fiddled and messed and have now swapped the
two DB15 cables back again. For whatever reason, it has now started to work
OK again. I don't know why !!

I will keep my fingers crossed that it keeps working.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 18 March 2013 08:42, Gary Gregory  wrote:

> Um...check your auxbus cables. I was sent one with incorrect pins. Try
> swap those two cables around mate. This fixed my issue here.
> Gary
>
> On 18 March 2013 18:19, Barry Simpson  wrote:
>
>> Yesterday I spent all day rearranging my shack which included
>> disconnecting
>> and relocating my K3/KPA500/KAT500.
>>
>> The gear is interconnected using the Elecraft DB15 cables from K3 to
>> KAT500
>> and KAT500 to KPA500 all as per diagram on P6 (Fig 1) of the manual.
>>
>> All was working great before I disassembled everything but as soon as I
>> switched on after completing the relocation, I had an immediate problem.
>> The problem is that the
>> K3 registers an "ERR PTT" fault which I initially thought was due to some
>> problem with my connections. However, this is not the case and I
>> eventually
>> found that the fault condition
>> disappears (and the K3 acts normally) if I disconnect the DB15 cable from
>> the K3 to the KAT500.
>>
>> I can leave it connected to the K3 but as soon as I plug it back into the
>> KAT500 the fault condition returns.
>>
>> I have swapped the two DB15 cables but to no avail. I have also reset the
>> KAT500, updated the firmware and fiddled generally in the KAT500 Utility
>> but all to no avail.
>>
>> The KAT500 still works fine with RF sensing from the K3 but I am at my
>> wits
>> end as to how to cure the ERR PTT fault which is still there even with the
>> power disconnected to the KAT500 if the DB15 cable is plugged in.
>>
>> Probably I am missing something very simple but I cannot put my finger on
>> it. Can anybody point me in the right direction please. I have not yet
>> emailed K3 Support at Elecraft and will do so later tonight if I cannot
>> get
>> a solution from the learned persons on this reflector.
>>
>> Thanks in anticipation of help.
>>
>> 73
>>
>> Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
>> __
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>
>
>
> --
> *Gary - VK1ZZ
> Skype: Gary.VK1ZZ
> Motorhome Portable
> The Shack*
> *Elecraft K3
> P3 Panadapter
> KPA500FT
> KAT500FT**
> KX3-K
> *
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[Elecraft] KAT500 problem

[Barry Simpson]

Yesterday I spent all day rearranging my shack which included disconnecting
and relocating my K3/KPA500/KAT500.

The gear is interconnected using the Elecraft DB15 cables from K3 to KAT500
and KAT500 to KPA500 all as per diagram on P6 (Fig 1) of the manual.

All was working great before I disassembled everything but as soon as I
switched on after completing the relocation, I had an immediate problem.
The problem is that the
K3 registers an "ERR PTT" fault which I initially thought was due to some
problem with my connections. However, this is not the case and I eventually
found that the fault condition
disappears (and the K3 acts normally) if I disconnect the DB15 cable from
the K3 to the KAT500.

I can leave it connected to the K3 but as soon as I plug it back into the
KAT500 the fault condition returns.

I have swapped the two DB15 cables but to no avail. I have also reset the
KAT500, updated the firmware and fiddled generally in the KAT500 Utility
but all to no avail.

The KAT500 still works fine with RF sensing from the K3 but I am at my wits
end as to how to cure the ERR PTT fault which is still there even with the
power disconnected to the KAT500 if the DB15 cable is plugged in.

Probably I am missing something very simple but I cannot put my finger on
it. Can anybody point me in the right direction please. I have not yet
emailed K3 Support at Elecraft and will do so later tonight if I cannot get
a solution from the learned persons on this reflector.

Thanks in anticipation of help.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] Fwd: K3 Sub Receiver Problems

[Barry Simpson]

-- Forwarded message --
From: Barry Simpson 
Date: 3 January 2013 09:04
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Sub Receiver Problems
To: DR 


Hi Dave

You need to engage B Set before pressing any of the other functions. This
will enable you to turn on the sub receiver pre amp as from your
description, it is turned off.

I cannot imagine what the attenuator issue is unless you are mistakenly
pressing the RX ANT button. That would have the effect that you describe
but on both the main and sub receivers if you have no antenna on the
receive antenna connector.

In summary, press and hold the B Set button and B Set will appear on the
readout. I think that you will then find that Pre Amp, ATT and other sub
receiver functions work normally until B Set is disengaged.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 3 January 2013 05:27, DR  wrote:

> I tried to work the recent 10 meter contest using SO2V but I found that
> weaker
> signals were virtually uncopyable when using the sub receiver.  The main
> receiver appears to be working correctly.
>
> The sub receiver appears to have problems:
>
> I have noticed that the PRE does nothing when pressed after pressing the
> SUB and
> then pressing the BSET button.  Pressing the PRE on the main receiver, I
> see a
> one or two S unit increase on the meter as well as hearing an increase in
> noise.  I see no increase on the S meter and hear no noise increase when
> activating the PRE on the sub receiver.
>
> I have had a constant S9 noise on the 75 meter DX window since our light
> snow
> the other night.  On a clear frequency I notice that the sub receiver only
> shows
> S6 on the meter.  I did use the RX ANT button to switch to Main from Aux to
> eliminate differences in receive antennas.  I also physically swapped the
> antennas in the back to verify the difference in sensitivity.  I used a
> PL259 to
> BNC adapter to make the swap.
>
> I also noticed that the sub receiver audio and S meter goes completely
> dead when
> I engage the ATT using BSET on the sub receiver.
>
> I successfully ran the RF gain cal but I do not have a calibrated source.
> Without the calibrated source, the procedure only uses factory default
> values.
>
> I am not sure if this is related but occasionally I have been getting the
> following error:
>
> E 040AA8  err dse
>
> Anyone know what the error code means?
>
> 73,
>
> Dave KG0US
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Re: [Elecraft] (K3) Assembly (again) Front head

[Barry Simpson]

I remember having the same problem when I built my K3 about four years ago.

It was never going to work without an additional washer which is what I
installed.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 29 December 2012 02:31, Josh Fiden  wrote:

> I tried that first. In my case it resulted in what I considered an
> unacceptable deformation of the front panel. Maybe I just had a bad stackup
> of tolerances. YMMV!
>
> 73,
> Josh W6XU
>
> On 12/28/2012 4:14 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
>
>> Rick,
>>
>> Apply some pressure between the board and the front panel metalwork -
>> Squeeze with thumb and fingers while tightening the knurled nut with the
>> other hand.  Tighten until the washer is tight.  That method will do no
>> harm.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>>
>>
>>
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 kit with problems

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Ron

I seem to recall that I had a similar sort of problem when I first
connected my KPA500. I think it was either that I had plugged in the cable
from the K3 into the wrong socket on the back of the KPA500 - there are
two- and/or I had not enabled the KPA500 in the K3 menu.

Perhaps you can recheck those.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 22 December 2012 02:42, Ron W3ZV  wrote:

> It appears that I am the problem. Somehow I have messed up a perfectly
> good KPA500 kit.
>
> I purchased the cable kit for the KPA500. I have the 15 pin cable
> connected from the K3 to the KPA500. The major problem seems to be a lack
> of two way communication between the KPA500 and the K3. Making changes on
> the K3 has no effect on the KPA500. The KPA500 does not change bands, or
> show any output on the meter. Using the band buttons on the KPA500 produces
> erratic results on the KPA500 display. Pushing the 20 meter band button
> changes the display to 15 meters. The 12 meter button changes the display
> to 6 meters. The strange thing is that the K3 changes to the band indicated
> on the KPA500 band button. I checked the 15 pin cable connections and it
> looks good.
>
> I spoke to Elecraft support. The suggestion was to open up the amp and
> check the ribbon cables. I did this and as far as I can tell, the cables
> were all good. Red line to pin 1. All pins covered. Of course this happens
> on a Friday night before a holiday weekend.
>
> Anyone want to take a shot a bailing out the guy with ten thumbs?
>
> Ron W3ZV
>
>
> Ron W3ZV
>
>
>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] [K3] need help with hiss on ssb receive

[Barry Simpson]

I have never heard any hiss whatsoever with my K3 (s/n 1397) either on speaker 
or headphones, CW or SSB and I am particularly sensitive to such things. My 
TS590 does have some very low level hiss which I can live with Ok and I had a 
TS480 which had quite pronounced hiss. The worst I have heard in recent years 
is the FT2000 which is one of the reasons I have never owned one.

73

Barry. VK2BJ

Sent from my iPad

On 24/11/2012, at 11:15, Scott Manthe  wrote:

> I've heard of this problem, but have never actually heard the problem on my 
> K3, which has a serial number in the 3000 range. I'm sure you'll get numerous 
> replies offering suggestions.
> 
> I'm curious, when you say you "hang out" on USB, does this mean you never 
> operate below 10 mHz? Or do you operate on USB even on 40, 80 and 160 meters? 
> Personally, I don't notice much difference in the frequency response on USB 
> and LSB, but that might be because I only operate USB on the bands above 10 
> mHz.
> 
> 73,
> Scott, N9AA
> 
> On 11/23/12 11:00 PM, Mike Rodgers wrote:
>> I've been putting up with this hiss on receive for two years. Others have 
>> complained as well. It sounds like a rushing wind. Kinda like old cassette 
>> tape hiss. It's the dirty little secret no one wants to talk about and the 
>> first thing that comes up on other forums when you mention k3. The most 
>> common being "tiring to listen to.
>> 
>> I think I've got it the best it can be but I'm looking for tips to make it 
>> better.
>> It keeps me from listening wide. Any hi cut above 2400 starts to irritate me 
>> so that limits me to a width of 2.1!
>> 
>> Others complain on LSB but to me it seems more noticeable on USB where I 
>> hang out.
>> 
>> It's a two year old k3 #5047 running latest firmware (not the beta).
>> It's not Agc related as its the same with agc off.
>> 
>> I feel I have a very aggressive negative eq as follows.
>> 
>> 0.  0.  0.  -3.  -3.  -12.  -12/16.  -16
>> 
>> I love the rig except for this. I'm not planning to sell it but I would like 
>> to make it better if possible.
>> Right now I'm stuck at a width of 2.1 because of this. Am I doomed to just 
>> get used to it? I can filter it out with a kenwood speaker with filters but 
>> that's really just doing the same as reducing hi cut or bandwidth.
>> 
>> Any ideas welcomed.
>> 
>> Thanks and 73
>> Mike R
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Play me some fiddle, but no stinkin' violin!
>> 
>> Amateur/Ham Radio KE5GBC
>> HF & Echolink mobile
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Re: [Elecraft] KAT500 help

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Bob

It sounds as though you have made the same mistake as I did yesterday with
my new KAT500. In my case I got the co-ax cable wrong.

However, from the way you describe it, I think you have misconnected the
control cables. You need to remove the existing cable between the K3 and
KPA500 from the KPA500 and connect it to the Xcvr socket on the KAT500.
Then you connect the new cable from the amp socket on the KAT500 to the
KPA500. You may have got the co-ax cable wrong as well but that will be
apparent if it still doesn't tune when you have corrected the control
cables.

Mine now works great. Please let me know how you go on.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 16 November 2012 21:33, Fred Jensen  wrote:

> On your K3, go into CONFIG:TUN PWR and set the tune power to 25 watts.
> The KAT500 takes about 20-25 watts to tune.  Most of us had TUN PWR set
> at 5W or close for the KAT3, and have forgotten about the setting.
>
> 73,
>
> Fred K6DGW
> - Northern California Contest Club
> - CU in the 2013 Cal QSO Party 5-6 Oct 2013
> - www.cqp.org
>
> On 11/16/2012 12:24 PM, Bob Woodward wrote:
>
> >> Here's the problem. When I push "tune" on the KAT500 the auto light
> >> continues to flash. No indication of SWR. When I push tune on the
> >> K3 it tunes - no indication on KAT500. I've put the tuner on the K3
> >> into bypass. No change on KAT500 when I push tune on it.
>
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[Elecraft] KAT500

[Barry Simpson]

Further to my earlier posting, I have now got the new KAT500 connected to
the K3 and KPA500 as per the instructions.

Of course it did not work at all at first. However, I just got back from
dinner out with the XYL, checked again and found that I had reversed the
antenna/transceiver cables !!

Now corrected and seems to be working perfectly.

It also does not seem to introduce any loss whatsoever, just like the K3
built in ATU. I don't know how Elecraft do that as both my Kenwood rigs
have significant losses in their ATU's as did my previous Yaesu.

The mojo is still working.

Barry  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] KAT500

[Barry Simpson]

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
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Re: [Elecraft] DESK TOP MICROPHONE FOR K3

[Barry Simpson]

I use the Icom SM20 and am very happy with it.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 1 November 2012 18:01, Jim and Ann  wrote:

> Looking for recommendations for a desktop mic for the K3 -- anybody?
>
>
> K1GND Jim
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[Elecraft] Headphone recommendation for K3

[Barry Simpson]

After using my Yaesu YH-77STA very happily for many years (they still work
fine) I decided to give some other headphones a try.

I also have the Sony MDR-7506 I bought a few years ago based on the Ehamnet
reviews. However, I am not very keen on them at all. I find them too large
and heavy and they make my ears and head hot with extended use. Also the
rubber covering around the headphone speaker units has now crumbled and
disintegrated.

Several months ago, I bought a pair of Sennheiser HD238. I find them superb
- lightweight and very comfortable including a recent 24 hour spell in the
Oceania CW Contest.

73

Barry  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] K3 Reliability

[Barry Simpson]

I have been reading this thread with interest.

I have had my K3 around four years - s/n 1397 - . It has a full complement
of extras including the second receiver.

I built it myself and have never had a moment's problem with it and no
knobs have broken.

I added the KPA500 some months ago and that works seamlessly with my K3
(and pretty well with my TS590 - I do have other rigs).

I guess I have been either very lucky or, more likely, I am in the silent
majority.

I am now waiting for my KAT500 to arrive. I will also probably buy the new
TS-990 when it becomes available.

73

Barry  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] How effective is VFO -B (SUB) receiver?

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Vince

I have the sub receiver and it is indistinguishable from the main receiver
when I have both set to the same bandwidth. I suspect that you may have the
attenuator on and/or the pre-amp off in the sub receiver if the difference
is so great.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

On 21 February 2012 03:52, Vincent OKeeffe  wrote:

> Might some reader who uses (1) K-3, (2) KAT-3, the ATU and (3) the KRX3,
> VFO-B (SUB receiver) tell me how well the second receiver does its job?
>
> Is the quality and strength of sound from VFO-B comparable to VFO-A when
> operating split?
>
> What EXACT settings do you use for receiving on ANT 1 via VFO-A and
> transmitting (up two!) using VFO-B for transmitting AND receiving in
> SPLIT...and using the same antenna.  Not using AUX antenna?
>
> My FT1000d gives me essentially the same audio on the left channel as in
> the right channel in split.
>
> With my K3 I have very low audio from the SUB VFO-B.
>
> Am I expecting too much from the K3?  Am I missing something in setting up
> the K3?
>
> Vince, W1IDL
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-500 no 478 - shut down when switched from stand-by to operate

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Bernd

Are you sure you didn't push the "On" button by mistake ?  The two are not
very far apart.

I have been using my KPA500 since September last year and have had no
problems.

73

Barry Simpson   VK2BJ

2012/2/10 Bernd Länger 

> Hi,
>
> I bought a kit in October last year and only assembled it recently.
> Assembly procedure is straight forward as described in manual.
>
> The first thing I noticed was that the amp was not always amplifying
> properly while the transceiver was in transmit mode. '*' sign was always
> visible when transmitting, but it just didn't generate constant output.
> At that time I put it aside for a while. I just got it back on my desk
> again today to have a look at it.
>
> Switching it on was ok, but when I switched it to 'operate' from
> 'stand-by', the amp immediately blacked out (first time this has
> happened). The transceiver was on stand-by at that time, just pushed the
> operate/stand-by button and it happened. Fuses are still ok, so
> something else must have happened.
>
> Would anybody have an idea where to start looking for the fault?
> Thanks
>
> -- 73 Bernd VK2IA
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Re: [Elecraft] Unbelievable!

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Brian

My experience with the KPA500 exactly mirrors yours. After some fairly long
overs, my fan begins to sound a bit like a vacuum cleaner although nowhere
near as loud as my former linear, a Yaesu FL7000. I do not find any cause
for complaint. It is simply a fact of life.

I am also bewildered by people who say they never hear the fan in their K3.
Mine comes on almost from the start and I can always hear it, even with my
headphones on.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

On 22 January 2012 11:40, Brian Alsop  wrote:

> Like all things too good to be true, this posting about the KPA500 is a
> bit unbelievable.  Like cars, YMMV.
>
> My experience with the KPA500 is much different.  I suspect Jack only
> operates SSB.
>
> On CW expect the fan to come on after a few transmissions in under 30
> seconds.  Levels 1, 2 and sometimes 3 are often heard when doing some
> rag chewing at 500 W.  The temperature stays below 70C as it should.
> RTTY is about the same with contest type operation.   Expect the fan to
> operate as designed for these modes.
>
> It is not an absolutely quiet fan. I doubt Muffin type fans can be more
> quiet that what is used on the KPA500.  One would have to go to a
> centrifugal fan like used on some of the really silent big amps to have
> it "pin drop" quiet.
>
> 73 de Brian/K3KO
>
>
>
> On 1/21/2012 23:19, Jack Berry wrote:
>
> > I'm with you Fred. I wish Elecraft made cars. They would read our minds,
> last for 20 years and get 300 mpg!
> >
> > On Jan 21, 2012, at 4:03 PM, Fredric Serota  wrote:
> >
> >> I don't usually say much on these lists. But I have just finished
> building
> >> my KPA500, and I have to say that in my almost 50 years of hamming,
> this is
> >> the most incredible piece of equipment I have ever had. Now, I am not
> >> related to Elecraft in any way. They don't even know who I am. But I am
> so
> >> impressed with the quality of components and the engineering and thought
> >> that went in to this little package that I may sell my other amp (name
> >> starts with the first letter of the Greek alphabet) and buy another. My
> >> other amp is so noisy, the fan runs so loud and the "QSK" relays
> >> clickity-clack" when sending CW. The KPA500 is as silent as can be,
> >> generates over 600 watts without any noise at all. The only time I can
> hear
> >> the fan is when I shut down the amplifier, it turns on to bleed the high
> >> voltage to make it safe if you want to poke inside. No other piece of
> >> equipment I have ever had does that. It follows the K3 without
> blinking. And
> >> the software gives you all the measurements, including temperature,
> that you
> >> would ever want to know. And the satisfaction of breaking a pile up with
> >> half the power I usually run, puts the fun back in operating.
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> And all you guys can say is you don't like the color of the buttons.
> >> Unbelievable!
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> Fred Serota, K3BHX
> >>
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> >
> > -
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Re: [Elecraft] Mating KPA500 ot Kenwood TS 590.

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Stephen

I am using my TS-590 (and K3) very successfully with my KPA500. I have a
few pointers which may be of interest to you.

I am not using any band information cabling from the TS-590. I let the
KPA500 RF sensing take care of that.

I have made up the simple solid state amplifier switch for the TS-590 which
is housed in the Din plug shell. That is my sole connection to the KPA500.
I did try the ALC but it is a waste of time because it is very slow acting.
As such, you need to control the RF output from the TS-590 manually and
this requires a different setting for each band for consistent amplifier
output. However, a good starting point is around 20W.

You will also need to adjust the carrier level to ensure there is no ALC
action (on CW) otherwise you will see a huge spike on keying the first
character, particularly on 10m. A good carrier starting point is 15 but my
needs much less on 10m.

It is easy to do the adjustments and watch the power out LED display on the
KPA500. You will know when you have got it right.

I also did adjustments for SSB and I am happy with those.

I leave both the K3 and TS-590 connected to the KPA500 at all times. That
way, it is easy to switch rigs simply with my antenna switch without having
to fiddle with changing any cables.

73

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

On 7 January 2012 19:40, stephen arnold  wrote:

>
> Has anyone attempted to mate the Kenwood 590 with the KPA 500?  The KPA's
> owner's manual under "cabling" on page 7, suggests a RS232 9-pin cable will
> successfully  connect the two units, but does not specifically state that
> the RS232 is carrying ALC from the Ts 590 to the KPA 500.  I have used the
> RS232 cable, am getting some drive, but cannot raise the 500's output past
> 50 watts outs which is what I am inputting from the Kenwood unit.
>
> Steve KB9AVS
> K3 and KPA 500
>
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Re: [Elecraft] KPA-500 fuse block door

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Jim

My recollection is that the fuses need to be very firmly seated otherwise
there is a problem as you indicate. I had a sismilar issue until I realised.

Regards

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

On 16 September 2011 02:39,  wrote:

> Hi,
>
>
> I just received my factory built KPA-500 amplifier. The fuses were not
> included with the amp so I went to Radio Shack and picked up two 3 AG 6 amp
> fuses for 240 v operation.
> With the fuses installed the fuse block door will not close. Is this
> normal? With the fuses out of the fuse block the door closes perfectly but
> with the fuses installed I just can't close it.
>
>
> Any suggestions?
>
>
> Thanks,
> Jim Douglas  K2ZF
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Re: [Elecraft] ALC

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Tom

If you bought the connecting cable from Elecraft, it already contains both
the ALC and CW keying lines.

Barry  VK2BJ

On 14 September 2011 14:30, Tom  wrote:

>
> Where do I connect the ALC from the K-3 to my amp.  I' m sure it must be in
> the manual, but can't seem to find it.
> Tom
>
> Sent from my iPad
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[Elecraft] KPA500 s/n 346 on air

[Barry Simpson]

I have just completed building KPA500 s/n 346.

It went together pretty well and the initial power on test was OK.

However, I connected the K3/KPA500 cable I had bought and it wouldn't work !

Just a case of RTFM !

Updated the K3 firmware (and the KPA500 firmware as well) and turned on the
auxbus and voila it is working great.

No QSO's yet, just set up the stby and oper power levels and tested on most
bands.

QSO's to come later.  Yippee !

Please excuse the grammar.

73

Barry  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] KPA500

[Barry Simpson]

My new KPA500 kit - #346 - has just been delivered by Australia Post.

That is around 17 days after ordering (on a Sunday) and 14 days after
shipping including negotiations through Customs.

I think that is pretty good given the experience of some other VK's.

Roll on the weekend so I can unpack the box and put the amp together.

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] KPA500 Australian Customs Code

[Barry Simpson]

I have just received notification from Australia Post that they have my
KPA500 kit. That is pretty quick given that it was only despatched by
Elecraft a week ago.

Of course I now have to complete the relevant Customs Declarations. Do any
of you VK's know the correct Customs code number for the KPA500 ?

Many thanks

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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Re: [Elecraft] Headphones

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Bill

I have been a long time user of a pair of Yaesu YH-77STA headphones. They
provide more volume than the various other Sony and Heil headphones that I
have and they are very comfortable to wear.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 9 July 2011 21:17, Bill Ross  wrote:

> Because of a hearing loss, (I wear hearing aids) I find that wearing
> headphones with the K3 (and another radios) works better for me. However, I
> have noticed that I get more volume out of the built-in speaker than the
> various headsets I have.  With the headsets on, I find I am running the
> volume control just about at max most of the time, with RF gain also at max.
>  One of the headsets I use, is an old RS “HI-FI” pair that cost $40. way
> back when, and yet, are less sensitive than my Sony ear buds.  Also, for
> some reason, the RS headset must have a low freq. cutoff near the 600 Hz
> side tone, as I get more of a “thump” than a sine wave tone out of them. The
> Sony ear buds, work better, (more volume than the RS ones, even without my
> aids in) , and the side tone sounds better,  than the RS “HI-FI” headset,
> but, still less than the built-in speaker.
>
> Does anyone have any experience with the “communications type headphones
> sold by AES and other ham radio dealers, or that advertise in QST, CQ, etc.?
>
> Would appreciate any guidance or advice from someone who’s “been there”.
>
> Tnx and 73
>
> Bill, k6mgo
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Re: [Elecraft] Yaesu FL-7000

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Larry

I have interfaced my FL7000 for auto band change as per the N0SS details and
it works perfectly.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

On 29 April 2011 02:45, Larry Boekeloo  wrote:

> I don't recall ever seeing this on the reflector so here goes
>
> Is anyone running a Yaesu FL-7000 with their K3 and have you been able to
> interface it for automatic band changing?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Larry, KN8N a happy K3 owner!
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[Elecraft] K3 Firmware

[Barry Simpson]

Has anyone any news on a replacement for the ill fated beta 4.18 (which I am
still currently using) ?

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ
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[Elecraft] KPA 500

[Barry Simpson]

Does anyone know if the KPA 500 has a built in power supply ?

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

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[Elecraft] K3 ATU

[Barry Simpson]

The ATU has started to behave strangely since I upgraded to the latest
firmware.

 

Most times when I start keying after a QSY, there is the click of a relay
then the ATU icon goes off momentarily and then returns.

 

Anyone else experiencing this issue ?

 

Barry  VK2BJ

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Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Assembly question

[Barry Simpson]

My washer was equally loose so I put an extra one in to fill the gap. Then
it fitted very snug.

Barry  VK2BJ


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Re: [Elecraft] Delay in monitor audio - it aint there!

[Barry Simpson]

Walt

It certainly is a problem for me and others I have corresponded with.

Hopefully Elecraft will rectify it so that we can hear ourselves in real
time.

Barry  VK2BJ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Lu Romero
Sent: 22 January 2010 19:16
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Delay in monitor audio - it aint there!

Interesting article!  Answers a lot of my questions about
the audio processing system.  Thank you so much for the
link!

31 miliseconds... Really?  Wow!

Do you guys consider this a problem?  

Sort of puts the average ATSC compression propagation delay
of roughly 6-10 seconds, depending on bit packing and
statistical multiplexer efficiency in the right context for
all of us, eh?

-lu-w4lt-
K3 #3192




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[Elecraft] K3 CW keying in SSB Mode

[Barry Simpson]

I believe that up until my last (the latest) firmware update my K3 had the
ability to send CW whilst listening in SSB mode. However I have lost that
ability and cannot find any menu or config setting which appears to relate
to that function.

 

Can anyone point me in the right direction please.

 

Thanks

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

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[Elecraft] K3 Sub Receiver

[Barry Simpson]

Following my earlier post I have now found how to configure the sub receiver
filters in K3 Utility.

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

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[Elecraft] K3 Sub Receiver

[Barry Simpson]

I seem to have lost the ability of the K3 to recognise what filters it has.

 

My sub receiver has a 2.8 and 1.0 but when I go into B Set and press the
XFIL button it only registers one filter, a 2.7 which I don't have.

 

Following my recent upgrading of firmware and the K3 Utility I lost a lot of
settings including the sub receiver which had been turned off. It would be
appreciated if someone could tell me how to get the sub receiver to
recognise the filters.

 

Thanks

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

 

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[Elecraft] K3 tuning noise

[Barry Simpson]

Despite my eariier email regarding the K3 Utility issues, all is not well
after all.

 

I now have the dreaded tuning noise (loud) on 6m. It wasn't there this
morning when I was operating on 6m before I did the K3 Utility and firmware
upgrades. 

 

Again I have regressed to the previous firmware version but the noise is
stiil there (and on 12m which was there before).

 

I thought that this had all been fixed in the firmware. Does anyone know how
to get rid of the noise as 6m is now effectively unusable ?

 

The moral is if it isn't broke don't upgrade.

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

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[Elecraft] K3 Utility

[Barry Simpson]

I just downloaded the latest K3 Utility and Beta Firmware. Although the
downloads were successful, the K3 would no longer talk to my logging program
(Turbolog 4).

 

At first I thought the problem was related to the new firmware but after
reloading an older version with the same result, I guessed, correctly, that
the new K3 Utility was the issue.

 

My logging program was set at 4800 baud for the K3 previously whereas I
discovered that the new K3 Utility runs at 9600 baud. I did a quick edit of
the K3 parameters in the logging program and all is fine again.

 

This may be of interest to anyone who is having similar problems.

 

73

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

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[Elecraft] FW: Elecraft CW Net Announcement

[Barry Simpson]

Here here.

I also enjoy reading Kevin's comments every week. Keep it up Kevin.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Mary Carll
Sent: 18 October 2009 04:05
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft CW Net Announcement

Hi Kevin,

Just thought I'd drop you a quick note from ZL.

I'm a reader of the Elecraft reflector, and a very happy K3 owner - #2867.

I always really enjoy reading your comments regarding your QTH - you 
paint a wonderful picture of nature and what is happening there. It 
sounds a beautiful place.

Do keep up your writing!

I hope to catch you on the bands some time. I'm 100% CW here, mainly 40 
and 30mx at the moment, as the higher bands still aren't a lot of use. 
Roll on those sunspots!

Take care, and very 73,

Tony, ZL2AGY/E51AGY
  ( FOC #1645 )
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[Elecraft] K3 12m problem

[Barry Simpson]

I uploaded the latest beta release and found that there is a loud noise
(like electric motor interference) when tuning at the SSB end of 12m. The
noise stops when you stop tuning.

 

I hadn't noticed the problem before so I regressed to the previous beta
version but the noise is still there.

 

Has anyone else found this problem ?

 

I think I will check the situation with earlier versions.

 

73

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

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[Elecraft] K3 NR in Ver 3.27

[Barry Simpson]

I have just installed 3.27 and the NR is a disaster. On turning it on there
is virtually no AF output even at maximum AF gain setting. I have turned the
K3 off and on but to no avail.

 

Also there are big birdies on 40m (I haven't checked any other bands) which
I am sure were not there before I upgraded from 3.25.

 

Has anyone any ideas . If not it looks as if I will need to go back to 3.25.

 

Barry  VK2BJ

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noise Blanker

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Brett again

It does work now. I rtfm !
I hadn't got the VFO's configured as independent .

Thanks again for your suggestion.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

-Original Message-
From: Brett Howard [mailto:br...@livecomputers.com] 
Sent: 21 August 2009 09:13
To: Barry Simpson
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noise Blanker

Have you configured your sub rx to have a noise blanker?  I think you
have to go into the menu for the KNB3 and then hit sub and turn that on.
Then I'm not sure if you have to also use BSET to enable it or not but
this is at least a thought of something to check.

~Brett

On Fri, 2009-08-21 at 07:06 +, Barry Simpson wrote:
> I have not noticed before but the noise blanker does not work on the KRX3
> whereas the noise reduction does work. Is this a fault with my particular
> rig or is that the way it should behave ?
> 
>  
> 
> Barry  VK2BJ
> 
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noise Blanker

[Barry Simpson]

Thanks for the suggestion Brett but it doesn't work !

73

Barry  VK2BJ

-Original Message-
From: Brett Howard [mailto:br...@livecomputers.com] 
Sent: 21 August 2009 09:13
To: Barry Simpson
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Noise Blanker

Have you configured your sub rx to have a noise blanker?  I think you
have to go into the menu for the KNB3 and then hit sub and turn that on.
Then I'm not sure if you have to also use BSET to enable it or not but
this is at least a thought of something to check.

~Brett

On Fri, 2009-08-21 at 07:06 +0000, Barry Simpson wrote:
> I have not noticed before but the noise blanker does not work on the KRX3
> whereas the noise reduction does work. Is this a fault with my particular
> rig or is that the way it should behave ?
> 
>  
> 
> Barry  VK2BJ
> 
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[Elecraft] K3 Noise Blanker

[Barry Simpson]

I have not noticed before but the noise blanker does not work on the KRX3
whereas the noise reduction does work. Is this a fault with my particular
rig or is that the way it should behave ?

 

Barry  VK2BJ

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[Elecraft] Problem with K3 Beep Tones

[Barry Simpson]

I have band memories set up for each band 1.8 thru 50 on key pads 1 thru 0.
Further I have discrete in band frequencies/ modes in M1 thru M4.

 

A recently noticed issue has been that sometimes the double beep stops
working when I press M>VFO and 1 thru zero ( to call up a band) and then M>V
M>M1 to M4 to call up an in band frequency  and all I get is the first beep
tone.

 

The way round it is that I have to play one of the M1 to M4 voice memories
after which the two beep functionality returns except for keypad 2 which
never has a second beep (and it has no beep at all ever if I press it to
activate the REV function).

 

The double beep failure always occurs after I use one of the M1 to M4 cw
memories but also some other apparently random times as well. The only way
to then restore it to the double beep is to use one of the M1 to M4 voice
memories.

 

Has anyone else noticed this problem and is there a cure ?

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

 

 

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 Autonotch Gremlin

[Barry Simpson]

I also have an autonotch problem with 3.25. Previously the autonotch zapped
the heterodynes immediately. Now it only partially works slowly and you can
hear a residual heterodyne. It does not seem to work at all on signals less
than S9.

Barry  VK2BJ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Paul
Sent: 18 August 2009 02:35
To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] K3 Autonotch Gremlin

Using 3.25 I have no autonotch at all. Reverting back to 3.14 I do have
autonotch. The improvement in NR effectiveness is quite positive. 73,
Paul NN5G
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[Elecraft] K3 latest firmware

[Barry Simpson]

I have just loaded the latest firmware. 

 

The NR is certainly different and appears to be a big improvement although
at aggressive settings the audio output is very attenuated.

 

There is another effect which doesn't seem to have been published. That is
the maximum output that can be set by the power control is now 110 watts
instead of 120 watts.

 

Has anyone else noticed this or is it confined to my K3 ?

 

73

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 COOLING VENTS

[Barry Simpson]

An interesting post Tony. I have exactly the same issues with the right side
panel heating up with a typical front panel temperature reaching 43C. This
has only happened since installation of the second receiver which virtually
cuts off the airflow inside. The front panel typically runs hotter than the
PA.

I have already gone down the road of cutting six vertical slots in the right
hand side panel to assist with air flow. Regrettably it makes no difference
to the temperature. The only way to lower the temperature significantly is
to have the fans on permanently. This way there is some air sucked through
the vents in the panel and I can drop the temp down to the low 30's.

Given that the high temperature of the side panel does not appear to have
any detrimental effect I have now given up worrying about it.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of K2ZLS
Sent: 14 May 2009 21:06
To: ELECRAFT@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] K3 COOLING VENTS

Hi,

 There have been enough posts here about the temperature inside the 
K3 to start me thinking.   Mine also gets very WARM on the right side by 
U12 and U13.  You all know how "boxed in"  the Front side of the K3 has 
become and now we are looking at additional features being added to the 
inside of the box. The way the cooling fan is now, there is little or no 
circulation of air in the front side of the K3.  Another poster wanted 
to add bigger fans but, you know, that will not solve the heat problem 
because the air can't get to where it needs to go.  I would like to 
"CROSS VENTILATE" the front area by adding cooling vents, similar to the 
configuration of the speaker vents,  to both side panels.  There does 
not seem to be any worry about RF leakage at the rear vents where the 
AMP is and the side vents can be fashioned the same way.  I know that 
Wayne feels that the cooling is adequate but,  I think this would be a 
worthy modification at this point, if only to let the HOT AIR ...OUT. 

If someone knows how to punch out this configuration, I would gladly 
supply the panels and pay any costs involved.

73's  and  Thanks.

Tony  K2ZLS at OPTONLINE  dot  NET
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Re: [Elecraft] BHI HP-200 and other headphones

[Barry Simpson]

Hi Chris

I am using the YH77STA phones. They are the best phones I have ever used. I
have had them for about ten years.

There is absolutely no hiss or any residual noise with my K3 AF gain at
minimum or any audio hiss at any setting. It suggests that you have an AF
amplifier fault.

Incidentally my FT1000MK5 and my TS2000 are also totally hiss free. However
my IC7000 has considerable hiss as does the FT2000. I don't know about the
big Icoms or their new 7600 and would be interested to hear from anybody who
has one.

73

Barry  VK2BJ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of OE5CSP-Chris
Sent: 5 May 2009 14:33
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] BHI HP-200 and other headphones




Hi Chris,

The K3 headphone amp (National LM4811) is specified at 106dB S/N ratio so
should be pretty noiseless.
Using Sennheiser HD600's here with quite high sensitivity which has no
noticable noise on the K3.
Does the hiss remain with AF gain all the way down?

A quick & dirty way to lower the residual amp noise is a small resistor
network is series with the headphone output. Not so elegant but might save
you from buying yet another headphone...

73'
Paul
PD0PSB


Hi Paul,

The hiss remains even with the AF gain all the way down! The front panel
connector is worse than the rear connector, so I always connect the Yaesu FH
77 STA to the rear connector. Could you please tell me how to build the
series resistor network? 

73, Chris-OE5CSP
-- 
View this message in context:
http://n2.nabble.com/BHI-HP-200--and-other-headphones-tp2792291p2796364.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.

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[Elecraft] K3 VFO B Memory Problems

[Barry Simpson]

Further to my earlier email I have solved the problem ! 

 

It is because following loading the latest firmware I had set VFO IND in the
config menu to YES. Restoring it to NO restores my previous memory
functions. Clearly I can't have it both ways !

 

73

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ  K3 # 1397

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[Elecraft] K3 VFO B Memory Problems

[Barry Simpson]

I have got my K3 set up so that the number keys act as band keys. Each
number key is assigned to a band and is activated by pressing the M>V key
and then the appropriate number key.

 

The memory set up included memorising the VFO B frequency the same as VFO A
or sometimes a different frequency but in the same band. I also have the M1
- M4 keys programmed to frequencies within each band.

 

This has all worked very well such that when I change bands as described
above the VFO B frequency also changes to the same band at the same time.

 

Not any more however. This afternoon I suddenly found that the VFO B doesn't
change frequency when I move to another band. The only way I can move it is
by using the A>B key. Then it works fine with the pre-programmed M1 - M4
keys.

 

I have tried reloading the firmware but it makes no difference. Has anyone
else experienced this issue ? Has anyone any suggestions to restore the
status quo ?

 

Any ideas would be appreciated.

 

Barry Simpson  VK2BJ  K3  # 1397

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