[Elecraft] What made you decide on purchasing an Elecrafttransceiver?
The reasons I initially selected the K3 to adorn my shack were: (1) A rig designed with no compromises for transverter use -- coded output for transverter selection and control (2) Performance and at "affordable" price! (3) IF output to drive my Softrock Panadapter when used with transverters (4) 10w version -- ideal for transverter use (5) Outstanding recommendations from other VHF/UHF K3 users (6) American made and modular design allowing the best repair-ability of any rig on the market (7) Custom configuration at time of purchase and the ability to add hardware upgrades later (8) Compact size AFTER SELECTION, reasons I'm even more sold (1) Beautiful interface with PowerSDR IF (ver 1.19.3.5) allowing point and click operation without compromise when desired. (2) Factory Support -- WOW (3) The desire of Wayne and crew to design software based upon the "NEEDs" of the user (4) The encouragement of us users to suggest and request features to be incorporated in future hardware and software (5) The darn Koolaid tastes SO GOOD Biggest problem: (1) How will I avoid purchasing a second one? I would love to RETURN to HF with this wonderful rig at 100w or better. ( I would love to find a good external HF amplifier with ATU to use with the K3/10 160-6m. ) THANKS ELECRAFT 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 with microwave transverter - Frequency display
I too would like to see this readout change. I am in agreement with the "less certain digit". I use transverters with my K3 on 6,2,222,902,1296 and 10Ghz at this time. 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed --- > Date: Sun, 23 Jan 2011 01:48:01 -0800 > From: m.j.wil...@rl.ac.uk > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] K3 with microwave transverter - Frequency display > > > The K3 displays the frequency for bands above 1 GHz by missing the most > significant digit. I would rather it missed the least significant one. Then > 1296 would read 1296 rather than 296. This is I feel justified on the > grounds that, for non-GPS locked systems, by the time one is over 1GHz the > last 100Hz or so of resolution it is a bit less certain. > > Secondly, I seem to be having trouble with direct frequency entry on 2320. > The IF is 144MHz via an XV144 but if I try to enter 2320.200 I can't. I can > enter 144.300 on 2m so I think this is a problem only over 1 GHz. > > Mike > -- > View this message in context: > http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K3-with-microwave-transverter-Frequency-display-tp5952398p5952398.html > Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Slow learner - K3
I've had my K3/10 for 15months. It is used mostly for my VHF/UHF/Microwave IF, but a bit of QRP HF operations as well. I broke down and bought a 500hz CW filter as my Christmas. I think it will be more convenient than depending upon the DSP filter for very weak sigs. The in PBT feature is working nice. Now I had only used the K3 utility for uploading the latest and greatest from "the mother ship". I used it for filter setup and went back to play with the K3 on CW with the new filter. Hu . never played with K3 CW decode... wow, that works pretty well never played with K3 Utility Terminal ... WOW that works VERY well Sure had a nice 45min ragchew on 40m with mostly K3 CW decode and keyboard CW. All there, just never thought about trying to use it. WELL DONE Elecraft gang!! That weak stuff at 10Ghz won't be copied by the K3 CW decode software, but the keyboard CW and memories are useful. 56yrs in the hobby and still lots of fun. 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed (Minnesota) __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 500hz CW filter
Anyone have a K3 500hz CW filter 5pole filter that is surplus to your needs? If so, price and availability. (Minnesota) Thanks 73 Bill K0AWU __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K3 RFI Susceptibility
From: cqbi...@msn.com To: sdell...@facstaff.wisc.edu Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 RFI Susceptibility Date: Wed, 22 Dec 2010 10:13:49 -0600 I have had similar issues with my K3/10, but I was asking for trouble. I have an involved external sequence switcher and band decoder for all the VHF/UHF/Microwave transverters. Involved is an unshielded wire that runs between my sequencer switcher and the PTT circuit, accessed at a mike cable extension on the K3. The TX function for the K3 is operated by the sequencer. On 6m when running the 250w, the amp RF gets into the keying circuit. With a bit of lead dressing I have been able to avoid the problem, but I need to do something a bit more "evolved" for the problem. 73 Bill K0AWU (EN37ed Minnesota) -- > Date: Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:33:51 -0600 > From: sdell...@facstaff.wisc.edu > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] K3 RFI Susceptibility > > While using my shunt-fed tower and amplifier on 80 and 160 CW, the K3 keying > became erratic. The problem went away when I unplugged the spare headset > from the rear panel jacks. The front panel jacks aren't a problem, no doubt > because their shields go right to the chassis. If you use the rear panel > ones at high power, it would be wise to wrap the cord around a ferrite core. > I didn't have any trouble with the other rear panel cables, but I put cores > on them anyway. > > My shack is a high-RF environment on those bands, as it's only about 10 > meters from the tower, but it's probably not the worst the K3 is likely to > see. (Field Day, expeditions?) I've had to take measures to keep RF out of > other equipment, though not the 60 pound behemoth next to the K3. > > I haven't looked into it, but maybe there's an easy way to ground those rear > panel jacks more directly to the chassis. (This is a classic cause of RF > susceptibility.) If not, a few ferrite cores is a small investment. > 73, > > Scott > Scott Ellington > Madison, Wisconsin > USA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] LP Pan versus P3 Panadapters
Hello all -- K0AWU here I am reading this thread with great interest. I apologize to those that have seen similar messages from me on this subject in the past. I had SO HOPED that with such a large number of P3s now in the field I would have seen reports on weak sig detection from some of the EME or weak sig VHF/UHF/Microwave operators. I use the Softrock SDR based panadapter (with buffer amp) for detection of weak microwave signals. Seeing sigs too weak to work allows optimizing beam/dish headings and elevations often enough to allow communications. Power SDR here does NOT allow that but VE3NA's Rocky slow waterfall does exceptionally well with "beaconing" CW signal detection and display. Rocky however requires more CPU time than PSDR. Normal operations here will be with the displayed bandwidth to me around 40Khz or more. (96Khz sample rate) Rocky allows me to see 2 or 3 db below what I can hear and 5db or so too weak to work, plus I don't have to be concerned about having the K3 on frequency. As you can imagine, at 10,368.100 MHz or even 1296.100 MHz we aren't always starting within 500Hz of ON frequency. The ability to read the sig strength relative to the noise floor is of great value in that it allows real sig levels to be recorded and exchanged. Google my call for links to my SDR/K3 webpages if you are interested in more info. I too have a shack computer, 5yr old Dell DIM4700 Pentium 4 at 2.8GHz with 3GB of RAM. I can run the SDR1000, Rocky or PSDR for K3 panadapter and logging programs plus several other applications with few issues. So I had a shack computer already. (M Audio Delta 44 sound card) I am not promoting an SDR based panadapter over a P3. I just am VERY interested if the P3 can see deeper Somewhere someone knows or is finding out RIGHT?? 73 Bill K0AWU En37ed > > Bill, > >I can tell you that just last night, on 160 meters, I copied 2 very weak > stations perfectly Q5 that did not show on the P3 waterfall. Now, Its > entirely possible its my adjustment skills but I dont think so. Yes..the K3 > IF Mod was factory installed. This has happened more than once. For > some reason I was expecting the P3 to show these very weak signals better > than I could find them myself while tuning but no amount of adjustment so > far will do this. I may be expecting too much? > Just so you know what anothers experience has been so far. > 73 > > (K0AWU email follows) > > > I too would like to see details of the improvement over LPan etc. I am a > long time user of SDR/computer panadapters for use in detecting very weak > signals at UHF/VHF/microwave. I use a Softrock on the K3 IF port since I got > my K3 a year ago. I have yet to see one report regarding weak sig detection > with the P3 after many requests to the initial testers of the P3. ANYONE out > there looking for weak weak sigs with a P3?? > > 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] LP Pan versus P3 Panadapters
I too would like to see details of the improvement over LPan etc. I am a long time user of SDR/computer panadapters for use in detecting very weak signals at UHF/VHF/microwave. I use a Softrock on the K3 IF port since I got my K3 a year ago. I have yet to see one report regarding weak sig detection with the P3 after many requests to the initial testers of the P3. ANYONE out there looking for weak weak sigs with a P3?? 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed --- > From: pmar...@yahoo.com > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2010 20:00:52 -0400 > Subject: [Elecraft] LP Pan versus P3 Panadapters > > > To All, > > Can you please provide comments on the LP Pan versus the P3 Panadapter on the > K3. > > The LP Pan seems to have a lot more features compared to the P3 and the cost > is so much less. > > I understand that the LP Pan requires a PC but you get a bigger screen when > using a PC. > > What makes the P3 better then the LP Pan for the K3, if it is ? > > Thank you __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] P3 or KRX3
Many are using the SoftRock II Specials that Tony sold for IF Panadapter use. They ARE STILL AVAILABLE but are now sold by a different person with Tony's blessings http://www.w6dvc.com/ I have used a Softrock and a Clifton Labs Z10 buffer from the very beginning and am very happy with the results. I use PowerSDR IF v1.19.3.5 for point and click operation and am happy with the results for the most part. Rocky software is much better than PSDR for weak sig detection, but you loose the Point and Click control of the K3. So for the stuff below the noise I stop PSDR and activate Rocky. Since most of my opeartions are weak signal I run Rocky and operate the K3 in a normal manner. For CW Rocky is fantastic. With 96Khz soundcard setup max resolution is about 15Khz for full width on my monitor. If I want FULL SDR operation, I turn on the SDR1000. It doesn't get turned on that much. (Anyone want to buy a 100w/ATU Flex 1000? ) The K3 is what is running here full time. I am curious about the P3, but I can't yet justify the expenditure given the performance of my SoftRock/ Clifton labs/ homemade PC Box panadapter. The SR and buffer are hidden from view behind the K3 and are in operation all the time I have the K3 on. (Usually 14-16hrs a day). I operate VHF/UHF/Microwave weak signal and a some of HF. My panadapter allows me to look at a 96Khz "window" regardless of the band of operation which I can live with very easily. If I want greater resolution I can change that window with both software packages. For receive only operation with the SDR, the software setup is NOT that big of a deal. The SoftRock gang on the Yahoo group are as helpful as any you will ever meet and will get you going. For about $50 you are set. Don't like it? You can sell the "combo" in a heartbeat on the Yahoo group. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/softrock40/ I can use PowerSDR to provide monitoring of two additional frequencies of the band I am operating as long as I'm not changing frequencies as I monitor. With Rocky one additional freq. During VHF contesting I often operate on one freq while monitoring a rover freq with the panadapter "receiver" to keep track of his availability. Be aware ... if I change freq on the K3 I have to reset SDR "receiver" freq. But I have a second freq option. http://www.qth.net/k0awu/K3System.html Its all a matter of what you want. I have a PC running all the time and a PC based panadapter is no big deal. The K3 never leaves the radio bench and I like the large panadapter at the logging computer. If you JUST want to "see the activity", I see no problem. If you want a single source integrated hardware/software companion to your K3, the P3 is of course the only option. So ... that's my "take". 73 and good DX Bill K0AWU EN37ed > Date: Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:24:50 -0400 > From: w3...@embarqmail.com > To: lesch...@gmail.com > CC: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] P3 or KRX3 > > Bob, > > You are partially correct. To be specific, LP-PAN is a glorified > Softrock plus Clifton Labs Z1 with transformer coupling to the > soundcard, all dressed up in an enclosure. If you compare the price of > all those pieces (particularly the enclosure), the price of the LP-PAN > is not out of line, in fact it is quite inexpensive. These days, it is > not unusual for the cost of an enclosure to exceed the price of the > electronics inside it - just look at the prices for some of the > enclosures at DigiKey or Mouser - if it is not plastic, it is > expensive. I mounted mine in an Elecraft EC2 enclosure ($69.95) and > used the rest of the space for some antenna/transceiver switches and a > K3 breakout box, so the total cost of my LP-PAN equivalent exceeds the > cost of LP-PAN. > > Actually, Tony does not currently have the Softrock 6.2 receiver for the > K3 IF available, so the relative price of that is a moot point. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > > Bob wrote: > > Is the LP-Pan nothing more than a glorified Softrock type of receiver which > > can be bought for $10? __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K144XV with external 10 GHz Transvert er
The leading 10 is dropped after a brief display of 10368 then reverts to 368.100.00 with a external xverter fro the calling freq, should be the same with the internal K144XV. 10Ghz IS FUN!! 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] VHF Diversity
K3 Fellows take a listen to these! Very neat setup and great recordings. Graham, Thanks for the link. VERY interesting recordings and system. You have much to be studied on your website. The recordings are very well done and it sounds like you have a wonderfully quiet 6m location. TNX and 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] my K3 F/D experience
My "FD" experience was a bit different. I operated some with my K3/10 "1D" from the home QTH with the old dipoles up on 75/40/20m. I wanted to play SSB QRP and see what kind of fun I could have. I used HamRadio Deluxe, PSDR for interface then spotted and pounced. I only ran for a couple 2 or 3 hrs and very casually. I had about an equal number of QSOs on 20 and 40 with just a handful on 75, since the operations were mostly mid afternoon Saturday. It seemed that the 20m QSOs were easier than 40m, with seems counter intuitive. I use a Softrock on the IF to drive PSDR and I chose mostly the stronger stations to pounce on, but not all, by any means. One really neat 75m QSO was working W0CIA who was running an 817 at 3w from the top of a fire tower somewhere here in northern MN. Lots of positive comments on the good signal for the 10-12watts. I ran with the Elecraft hand mike and the compression set at 16. I only recently started using compression at all, and it makes a very big difference. Been hamming 55yrs and never used compression on any of my previous gear. Old dogs can learn new tricks. The local club had a Field Day station I visited over the weekend, I ran a bit of 40m with a Kenwood 450. Very smooth little rig to operate, but it seemed I had to call more than at home QRP. Lots more adjacent frequency QRM and I sure missed the Softrock panadapter. My K3/10 spends most of its life as my 6m - 10Ghz IF rig. Bill K0AWU K3-3xxx __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] P3 weak sig detection / 2m internal transverter
Question#1 This may be a question for Dick Divendorf or "P3 beta testers". I use a K3/10 as my IF for VHF/UHF and Microwave operations. I am always looking for WEAK signals. My K3 has a SoftRock driven by a buffer amp on the IF port for a Panadapter and it works very well. I can see signals too weak to work by about 5db using "Rocky" software spectrum display. Rocky's "slow waterfall" is slightly better in detecting weak signals, but to what degree in db, I have not determined. For me, other software like PowerSDR does not display the really weak signals as well. My question, is there anything in the P3's operation that would offer any better weak signal detection? Any direct observations between the P3 and other panadapter systems with the K3. Question#2 Anyone out there have any weak signal experience with the 2m internal transverter yet. It's tempting, but I need very low level 144Mhz (a few milliwatts) to drive the high band transverters as well 10watts or so for 2m drive for 2m amplifiers. I am doing that with an external DEM 2m transverter at the moment. I may need more flexibility of levels than may be easily obtained with the internal xverter. For you weak signal types... EME etc ... how is the internal xverter stacking up? THANKS and 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 output buffer modification
I have a K3 that has the higher gain IF output (#3460). I follow the IF output with the Cliffton Labs buffer and then a SoftRock SDR for a panadaptor. I use Rocky SDR software by VE3NEA for my weak signal panadapter. Power SDR for non weak sig conditions. (mostly HF) Since my interest is VHF-Microwave, the K3 is preceded by transverters for all bands 6meters and above. I DO NOT have QRM issues at these frequencies (except perhaps 6m during Es season) and as a result I run my noise floor at 28Mhz on the K3 at about S2 for all the transverters. I feel that a little bit of IF gain helps with detecting weak siganls on the panadapter. I can see signals on Rocky (CW sigs are easier) that I can not copy. It is this weak signal spotting that is why I want the panadapter. When I compare this panadaptor to a very optimized SoftRock 28Mhz IF paanadapter system, I am giving up at worst a couple db. I CONTINUE to be very happy with this combo. VERY weak SSB signals are hard to see in the noise HF or VHF. 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 needs survey -- firmware and appli cation software
USB CW for both Rx and Rec when using VHF/UHF/Microwave transverters where USB CW is the STANDARD Thanks, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year all Bill K0AWU EN37ed K3 # 3460 (K3 use 160m -> 10Ghz) __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3-Ham Radio Deluxe question
Started using HRD 4.1 build 2321 and with my K3. When trying to use it with the 10Ghz transverter the frequency display on HRD is "bogus" and freq control fails. So does HRD have an upper feq limit. Worked ok on 1296Mhz, one digit less. Thanks Thanks Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 - PowerSDR-IF "communication issue?"
Hope someone can help. Downloaded PSDR-IF 1.19.02 last night to use with my K3 and my Softrock on the IF with a Clifton Labs buffer. No problem with using the panadapter centered on the IF. But when I selected the K3 IF setting in PSDR and hooked up the serial cable I expected to be able to do some K3 control via PSDR and that does not happen. The serial cable works fine with the K3 Utility. I'm guessing I have made a dumb error some where. Correct Com port (1) and only serial cable hooked to computer when I was trying it. Ideas? From PSDR-IF documentation it sounded like once the IF/K3 option was selected it should have been close to "plug and play". My serial cable is 2 conductor and ground. Again works fine with K3 Utility and I have Upgraded FirmWare etc with no issues. Thanks .. Bill K0AWU EN37ed K3# 3460 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] More on K# Shuts Off
In my case, it may be a more complex issue. The K3 PTT is keyed by my station sequencer. (VHF/UHF/Microwave preamp and hot switch protection). When running WSJT or Digipan the Sequencer is keyed by a OptoIsolator that is turned on by the Com port from WSJT or Digipan. This "turn-on" is not as "hard" as a normal switch or relay. I can force the K3 to stay in TX by doing a "hard" key of the sequencer. It is ODD since I never hear the Sequencer "chatter", it seems only the K3 TX is dropping out. The K3 PTT is a RELAY contact in the sequencer. The K3 PTT is via the rear panel 15pin connector... about a 30" cable to the sequencer. I have yet to try a ferrite core on the cable. Unplugging the MH2 Elecraft mike "solves" the problem, so that is fine with me for the moment. Sure having fun with the K3 80/40/30m QRP, 50/222/902/1296/10Ghz via transverters Very Happy. 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed K3 #3460 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 SHUTs OFF
I have had this occur on 6m with external PA. I could not run over 200w output on WSJT, I found that RF was getting in via the mike cord I unpluged the mike since I was running WSJT and no farther problem. Interesting Bill K0AWU EN37ed K3 #3460 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Transverter settings and UPdate
I have never done a K3 software before having only had my K3 since the end of August. When I do the update will ALL of my transverter power, IF freq, offset etc settings be lost?? Lots of rig setup that I would have to carefully document and then RESET after every update if so ARGH Aside Ran considerable 6m and 222Mhz WSJT meteor scatter weekend before last for the first time with the K3 ... Yes Yes in SSB mode ... I am aware I have the Data modes available, very happy with the way things ran. Also had a nice 902Mhz FM QSO over a 155mile path the first day I had the K3 FM filter installed. Good UHF tropo a couple days in a row last week Thanks for any insight on the UPDATE ... 73 Bill K0AWU K3 #3460 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 Rear panel audio input problem with - JT65A & 441
Lance's post was of great interest. I too operate considerable EME (2meters) via WSJT and have just put my K3 on the air. Yesterday for the first time I attempted to get WSJT running with the K3. The attempt was not successful. For whatever reason, the K3 rear panel audio input is very insensitive ... to the point of almost being dead. I can barely hear audio through the input, monitoring with a second rig. I have verified the same result with a second audio source, the audio output on my CW keyer. I use a Delta 44 sound card for WSJT and have had no problem with rear panel audio on my Icom 735, 746Pro or 820H on WSJT or my keyer. The output level of the Delta 44 was set to +4 and the entire range of the audio slider was attempted. Again ... all works fine on the Icoms The Icoms require the audio gain on the Delta 44 to be up maybe about 1/6th of the way. I have selected MIC+LIN "ON", LINE IN for gain control and I am using UpperSideBand as it is standard with all WSJT VHF operations. I know the rear panel Mic jack works fine, so I am considering using a pad between the sound card and just using it. I found that the rear panel audio output requires gain a setting of around 40 to drive WSJT normally. This is with the Delta 44 audio gain control at maximum. It works, but I was surprised at the required gain settings. When using the headphone output to drive the sound card, the levels were very similar. So maybe all is "ok", it just require considerable more gain than the default. I am using no additional interface in my tests since the K3 have transformer isolation. Any insight into what should be a "no brainer"?? Bill K0AWU EN37ed K3 #3460 > I have the standard 2.7 kHz filter, and set the audio just like I do for > USB voice. I make sure to have the ALC fill the 5 bars on the meter, and I > use 20 dB > of compression to make sure that all the tones come up to the proper power > levels. I > use the LINE IN on the rear panel for my incoming JT65A tones from the > computer. > > I find the K3 a great rig for JT65A because I can make a flat bandwidth 300 > Hz to > 2200 Hz, and decode callers over that entire frequency range. I usually run > JT65A > with the NB on the first setting (IF NAR 1), DSP OFF and the AGC off. > > GL and VY 73, Lance __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] SSB+CW better understood, but answer is a bummer
Thanks guys I'm sure NOT Being in VOX is the problem .. RATS ... I use a sequencer to activate the K3 PTT and DO NOT use VOX. It is a feature that I was counting on to simplify things too. Almost all of my K3 applications are VHF/UHF and microwave where CW on USB is STANDARD, CW reverse is close but I still have to retune when I change from USB to CW. I didn't want to be forced to retune the frequency. Thanks again for all assistance 73 and good DX Bill K0AWU (54yrs on the air - Weak signal VHF/UHF and Microwave activity) __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 SSB-CW feature fails
For whatever reason, I can't get the SSB-CW feature to work with my K3. Sidetone works in rec, but as soon as I go to TX, no sidetone (or CW signal audio). I am using original Elecraft K3 software as supplied 9/8/2009 Ser #3460 TNX Bill K0AWU __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] WTB K3 FM filter
Ouch, this slipped by me in my move to the K3 IF for the VHF-Microwave station. I use FM frequently on 10Ghz rainscatter when signals are strong. So I am looking for a K3 "FM filter" (KFL3B-FM 13 kHz FM filter ), anyone have one "surplus" to your needs that would be for sale? Thanks Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 Web Traffic & "Complexity"
The recent posts regarding the CQ contest and K3s being used by various BIG contest stations have been interesting reading. My K3 still sets "aside" waiting on me to get my VHF/UHF/Microwave station integration hardware completed. A 3 week illness and a 10day trip that could not have been avoided has really slowed things down. But I'm getting closer. The station is being completely rebuilt around the K3 with auto switching for transverter RF switching and sequencing based upon the transverter selected on the K3. Hanging on the IF output already is a buffer amp and a SoftRock receiver providing a panadapter display. Rocky software is used for the panadapter and ALL tuning etc will be done with the K3. The Rocky display allows "watching" the band selected via waterfall or spectrum display. The freq display is relative to center of the IF freq. The SoftRock is working beautifully on the HF bands as is the K3. If I wish I can monitor a second frequency via the SoftRock using Rocky or with PowerSDR 2 other frequencies. (On the band selected on the K3) The real test will be weak sig detection at or below the noise. I have been VERY successful doing this with an old SoftRock 28Mhz V7 receiver augmented with a 2m receive converter and 28Mhz buffer amp with the various transverters. I feel quite comfortable with the K3 (10w) on the HF bands. No question, lots of functions to set and fuss with, but successful operation does not require being a "master" of ALL the various functions. Helpful to be filling to "master" the ones we need however! Hi Hi I am frustrated with the amount of Elecraft traffic on the reflector that often masks the meaningful traffic for everyday operators. I too have a FlexRadio that I am redy to part with. I am not an operator that requires the latest software download either with the Flex of the K3. My K3 software leaves a bit to be desired in the NB area and glad to see that addressed. So I'm sure downloads in the future will be forthcoming. I am interested in USING the radio and not necessarily fussing with software. Kudos to Elecraft support!! A phone call a couple weeks ago to determine if my K3 had the mod for the higher gain for the IF output or not was met with ... "got a screwdriver handy?" ... 3min later I knew that my K3 was higher gain and that allowed correct gain to be selected for the panadapter buffer amp construction. THANKS GUYS Looking forward to using the K3 on more than HF soon. 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed "weak signal operations 50Mhz and up for over 50yrs" K3 ser# 3460 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3 learning begins
UPS delivered the K3 "parts" yesterday late afternoon and Ser# 3460 came to life this morning. Generally a straight forward build. The front face plate had a HARD interference issue with "speed" LED ... from the rear I slightly elongated the front panel cutout a smidgen and then all went well. A K3/10 destined for mostly 50Mhz-10Ghz operations with transverters except for 6m. SO many menus a the "depth" of controls ... This is going to take some serious time to become familiar. I have operated Icoms and Flexs too long. 73 Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K3, KXV3A - DEM transverters
My first Elecraft is on order (K3). I plan a complete station rebuild around the K3/10 as an IF rig for 2,222,902,1296 and 10Ghz. I wish to use my current DEM (25w) 2m xverter with the KXV3A split RxTx @ about 10watts, for driving a 2m amplifier as well as a much lower power for the IF for the DEM 902, 1296, 10Ghz xverters. I have IF / Sequencer switching already for these bands using a single IF rig. For design purposes .. any suggestions or concerns? I will be building a "decoder" to identify the transverter band for IF control logic. Direct email preferred ... Thanks Bill K0AWU EN37ed __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
