Re: [Elecraft] Looking for Grandkid radio
Neil My suggestion would be to shy away from the easy to build, but hard to operate, or lower quality receivers. At this point I suspect the grandson is not all that interested in how hard or easy a receiver is to design or build. Rather I suspect he's interested in listening to stuff. Don's suggestion about finding an SDR makes lots of sense. Add a key and oscillator so he can make noise but not transmit and away he goes. The goal of a quality receiver, that is simple to operate makes sense. Good Luck, David On 11/5/2015 11:14 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Neil, I have seen several responses recommending a regenerative receiver. I would suggest otherwise. While regenerative receivers are "fun" to play with and can be quite sensitive and selective when properly tuned, they do require some 'training' to know how to properly operate both the tuning and the regen knobs together. If you want to pursue the Regen route, look at some of the regen designs by George Dobbs G3RGV - he has several that work well. Since your grandson likely has access to a computer, I would suggest that you look at some of the SDR receivers, such as the SoftRock kits - inexpensive and quite functional for all modes. Building the kit (with help from grandpa) may peak his interest in building his own gear and add to his interest in the hobby. some software running on the computer is necessary, but there are several software applications that will do - Rocky is one of the easiest to install and configure, HDSDR is good but requires a bit more configuration "smarts". There is also PowerSDR that can be used and there may be more that I am not familiar with. If kit building is not in store, then look for a used receiver/transceiver that may be up to the task. If you can find someone who has an SWL40 transceiver for sale (ask on the QRP-L reflector), that is a good starting point for 40 meters that will give good results - there are versions for other bands as well, but I suggest that 40 meters is the best starting band for single band rigs. There is usually some activity on 40 when other bands are 'dead' - and an antenna for 40 meters is of a reasonable size. I started introducing my 2 grandsons to electronics when they about 8 years old. It only "took" for one of them who got his license at age 13. The 6 granddaughters were not interested at all. So do keep working with him - if it "takes", ham radio in its diverse interests and niche activity groups can produce a lifelong hobby, and may be an introduction to a rewarding career in electronics and/or communications technology. I am one of those examples - I became aware of ham radio in Boy Scouts at the age of 14 when the local ham radio club offered classes in morse code. That led to my novice license at age 15, and those ham club members, coupled with my interest in math, led me to pursue an electrical engineering degree. That led to a very rewarding career and now even though I am officially retired and at age 75 1/2, my workbench is always full (and usually backlogged) with repairs of Elecraft gear. So there is hope for your grandson to engage in a lifelong pursuit that he may really enjoy. If he enjoys puzzles, he may enjoy puzzling over electronics problems which is the heart and soul of troubleshooting (and design). 73, Don W3FPR 73, Don W3FPR On 11/5/2015 6:46 PM, Niel Skousen wrote: Found out last night that one of grandsons (6 1/2 yr) has developed an interest in Morse code and radios. Who know how long it will last 8-) BUT in the interest of feed the fire, I'm looking for something that I can help him listen on at his house ... Anybody got anything collecting dust that needs a new home ?? __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to k...@fhrd.net -- David Heinsohn Chief Engineer Flint Hills RR Happily Playing with Trains Representing ATSF Eastern Lines Western District Middle Division 1st district Emporia to Newton in the 1930s. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Slow-scan TV (SSTV) display on the P3 and PX3?
While I'd rather have an XV900 and XV1200, SSTV that was easy to use would be nice too. I've already been lamb blasted by the list for suggesting that Wayne and company broaden the XV series. For some folks if it's not about cw/ssb on HF, Wayne should not waste his time. For others of us trying new freq's and modes is part of the fun. Wayne, if it interests you, go for it! If you offer it at least some of us will buy it! de David Who only owns: K2 (full house), KX3, XV50, 144,220,432, K1 (unbuilt), and all the mini's and test equipment Elecraft makes On 8/17/2014 11:45 AM, Fred Jensen wrote: -- David Heinsohn Chief Engineer Flint Hills RR Happily Playing with Trains Representing ATSF Eastern Lines Western District Middle Division 1st district Emporia to Newton in the 1930s. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Would anyone like to see an all-mode VHF/UHF offering from Elecraft?
In a word Yes! To add another word Please! I've wanted a good dedicated VHF+ rig for a couple of decades. I don't think transverters are the best answer, and I have some sitting on this desk right now. Of course Elecraft has to see a market, but I hope they can find it. David KD0R __ 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] Transverters?
I have the XV50 and XV144 on my K2. And other than a separate power out LED on the front of the transverter, it becomes just like that band was installed on the K2. David On 9/8/2012 8:11 PM, Gil G. wrote: Thanks Ray, I should have mentioned that I was considering a 2m Elecraft transverter for my K2... Gil. -- PGP Key: http://keskydee.com/gil.asc On Sep 8, 2012, at 7:21 PM, Ray Sills wrote: HI Gil: It depends on the transverter design. I do not have any Elecraft transverters, but as I understand it, the Elecraft design is pretty seamless. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2197 / Virus Database: 2437/5257 - Release Date: 09/08/12 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2197 / Virus Database: 2437/5257 - Release Date: 09/08/12 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Shipping Status
:-) I just checked the shipping status for the KX3s. It looks like they are now shipping several days worth of kit KX3 orders a day. And I think matching factory orders on a day for day basis. If I'm right it won't be too long now until the KX3 backlog is taken up and the wait will be no longer than for a K3. It won't be that way tomorrow, but I think that light is the end of the tunnel, not another train. David - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.2197 / Virus Database: 2437/5142 - Release Date: 07/19/12 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft at UK National Hamfest
Wayne You just did! Jim is a member of the list as well. Happy Birthday David On 10/3/2011 12:29 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: David, Thanks for doing this! On my birthday, no less :) Please pass my thanks on to Jim, as well. 73, Wayne N6KR - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.1809 / Virus Database: 2085/4535 - Release Date: 10/03/11 __ 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] Elecraft at UK National Hamfest
Hello All Yes Jim and I did an Elecraft display at the Wichita Area Hamfest yesterday. Worked quite well. Jim supplied the K-line. I supplied the K2, two transverters, six mini-kits and the XG-3. Oh wait there were two XG-3s as Jim had his there too. We both supplied lots of BS between each other and lots of facts about the Elecraft stuff. All of the products were well received. Perhaps the most interest was show toward the XG-3. Several professional techs were very interested in something they could take to a plane, car or truck without having to haul out the bench equipment on the two wheeler. If Elecraft sees an uptick in XG-3 sales in the Wichita area over the next week, you're welcome. :-) Both Jim and I enjoyed the event, as we enjoyed the Kansas State Convention in Salina a couple of weeks ago. Having a full K-line on display, and working with an outside antenna is no doubt the focus of the display. But having the K-2 and other products on display (and in the case of the K-2 also with an outside antenna) showed the diversity of the product line. I hope over the next few months that I'm able to add a KX-3, and more of the other stuff to the display as well. All in all I think it worked well for those at the hamfest, and really that's what's important. David KD0R On 10/2/2011 10:00 AM, Nate Bargmann wrote: Take a look at what Jim, W0EB, and others do. They bring their own Elecraft units to the hamfest and setup a table. Elecraft provides them with sales fliers and a banner (I think that's right) upon request. Beyond that I don't know if there are any special perks offered by Elecraft for those that do so but it seems successful, at least around these parts. Jim demo'd his K-Line at Wichita yesterday. I talked to Bill, WS4Y, last night who was there yesterday and he thought it was quite impressive. 73, de Nate N0NB - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2012.0.1809 / Virus Database: 2085/4533 - Release Date: 10/02/11 __ 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] XV144
Hello All I use a K2 and have XV50 and 144. The XV50 seems to be working just fine. However the 144 seems to have a problem. I live far enough away from other operators and had a poor enough antenna that I've not been able to find a test horse to talk to on two ssb or cw. finally made that happen last week. What I found was that the transverter seemed to be working. Receive performance is not as good as I think it should be (I changed out the loop antenna for an eleven element beam fix pointed at the metro area about 100 miles away). I need to run with the preamp on, rf and af gains all the way up to hear BIG stations at 100 miles in good conditions. And even more worrying is that, based on several stations reports my dial reads 12.4 khz high. From what I can see in the manual there is no alignment for frequency readout as such and the adjustment available from the TRN menu is only 10 khz. In checking the K2 against WWV it seems to be within well less than 100 hz. Suggestions? TNX de David - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1392 / Virus Database: 1520/3862 - Release Date: 08/27/11 __ 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] XV144
To all who have replied so far, thank you. It looks like I'll be making a call to Elecraft in the morning for the mod kit. That will certainly help. After I get the mod kit installed I will go thorough the entire alignment procedure again paying particular attention to the sensitivity portion. Using the range nomograms from several sources, like the ARRL VHF book, and the indicated performance of the stations in the Kansas City area, this setup should be able to work that path with no enhancement. It won't be strong but should be reliable. Thus KC seems to be a good location for the other end of my test path. I may find I just need to add another preamp. (The transmit power won't hurt either.) I was concerned that I had a problem with coax or connectors as well, so after I got the eleven element up, I got out the MFJ-269 and did a sweep. I had a good solid dip at the expected frequency so the coax is not acting like a dummy load. Thanks again for the help, David - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1392 / Virus Database: 1520/3863 - Release Date: 08/28/11 __ 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] K2 with XV50 and XV144
I have a problem, though I think it's minor, but irritating. I have both of the above transverters. They are plugged into the K2 per the manual with the K60XV. I was experiencing IF Overload as described on page 17 of the Owners manual, all LEDs flashing, when sending CW. I changed JP1 to the 200 ms second delay which helped but did not fully solve the problem. Any ideas whats causing this? Oh, my logging program reads the K2 for various inputs on the same cable as the xverter cable. Thanks for the inputs, I want a KX3 for KB4WYR!! David - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1375 / Virus Database: 1509/3654 - Release Date: 05/22/11 __ 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] Heads Up for K2 Users - Dumb User Error
To my fellow K2 Users Should you rig suddenly decide to hold the transmitter on continuously after any PPT or key input, and the MENU button decides to not work at the same time, with no other symptoms, there's a good chance that your key/paddle plug is part way out. Plug it back in and life will return to it's normal Ecstatic K2 Users Mode. Oops, David KD0R K2 6708 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1204 / Virus Database: 1435/3471 - Release Date: 02/27/11 __ 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] KRC2
I have a full house QRP K2, plus two transverters. I was looking at the Elecraft website the other day and noted that the KRC2 was intended for the K2. Based on the title I thought I understood what it was intended to do. Then looking at the description I decided I had no idea what it was really intended to do. So, for those out there that use the KRC2, esp. with a K2, what are you using it for? Please be fairly specific. What have you found that it won't do that you need to have done? What will it do that you're not doing yet? Thanks, 73 David KD0R __ 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] K2 - Poor Audio Reports
On 160 mtrs, SSB as I move up the band I begin to get poor audio reports at about 1.900mhz. The tuner is showing less than a 2:1 swr at that point and I retune often as I move up. The antenna is a dipole centered on 1.825mhz. Other than adding a shorter element to the dipole, any ideas what I need to do to fix the problem? Any ideas why I'm getting the poor audio reports? Thanks, David __ 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] K2 KDSP2 Tutorial
I'm trying to really learn how to use the KSDP2 to it's full advantage and I'm more than a little frustrated with the operators portion of the manual. Is there a good tutorial available for the KDSP2? Thanks David KD0R K2 6708 __ 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] K2 Q7 Blows Again
I'm a bit frustrated! Well actually more than a bit. Q7 on my K2 has blown again! This is the third time it's blown. In each case it's blown after a period of normal operation. This time the conditions were: 1. I'd had two PSK31 qso's earlier in the day. At well over an hour earlier. 2. I was tuning up and down the bands checking on the conditions on various bands, esp. PSK 3. As I went from 15 to 12 meters I heard a loud snap. The rig continued to receive normally 4. Powered off and leaned over to check that the ground was still properly attached. It was. BUT smelled that smell that we never like to smell. The magic smoke had gotten out of something. 5. Measured the ground from several places on the rig to the ground connection as it leaves the house. All showed less than 0.1 ohm. Checked the security of the connection at the ground rod outside. Seems good. 6. Weather conditions at the time: Blowing snow with temps about 20 F. 7. Tried to switch antennas and couldn't do it. 8. Checked the ATU indications on the menu display, the rig shows it not available and won't allow reconnect. (note the number two antenna is the active antenna and goes to a switch, all indications are that this is a working antenna. Receives find on all bands.) 9. Disassembled the K2, no visual indications of problems until a took the heat sink off. (I hate taking that thing off!!!) Q7 is in pieces again. 10. Called Elecraft. Closed for the holidays (That I expected and find no fault. BUT the Stew Perry Challenge starts in 48 hours and I really don't want to use one of the other rigs for that!!! @#$%^* ) I suspect static build up on one of the antennas, esp. the 160 dipole that is used for all but 80, 40 and 15 meters. But I was not experiencing unusual static on 20 only moments before. Now to decide whether I want to try the Icom, the Kenwood, or the Yaesu for the Challenge. None of them are even close to the K2s receiver for cw. And I'm going to be doing it as QRP too. Thanks for Listening. Don I suspect you'll be getting 6708 back next week. :-( Then again I might just try installing those four transistors again myself. I really don't like desoldering stuff. de KD0R David __ 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] K2 Shuts down on boot up
Yesterday evening after making a psk31 contact, then just listening for a couple of hours my K2 shut down. At the time my wife was working with the shack's computer. So I disconnected EVERYTHING from the K2 and turned it on using only the internal battery. It would start the boot process, get to the frequency display and shut down. Tonight I took the top off, disconnected the IO and DSP boards. Looked for obvious problems and tried again. Same result. There is just enough time during this process to tap MENU while the ELECRAFT display is on. The display then shows 2.04r 1.09 Then as usual as soon as the frequency comes up the unit shuts down. Any ideas? Nothing appears to have overheated, nor can I detect any warm components. Thanks David kd0r __ 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] If I Were King of the World - or - Elecraft Dreaming
Good Afternoon All To toss some more fuel on the fires of ideas for Elecraft gear, a few of my thoughts. The target of our (KB4WYR and myself) current radio buildup project is an upper mid level VHF/UHF/microwave weak signal station. That target is well down the road with probably hundreds of steps between the start and good enough. To that end we decided that we'd build as much as we could. Additionally, we decided that a K3 was going to be one of the foundation stones of that station. The other stone at the very foundation was/is a K2. As these two rigs can use the same set of transverters the K2 seemed like the best starting point. To that end we have built up a K2/qrp with all the bells and whistles (ok I still need to trouble shoot the ATU). The tower and six meter transverter look like the next steps. (That tower is going to be the hard part $$ wise.) So with that in mind, things I'd like to see Elecraft do: 1. High end preamps for all the VHF+ bands they have transverters for. 2. More transverters! Just keep right on going up the ladder of bands. (you can stop when you get beyond light!!!) 3. Amps, esp high power amps to go with the preamps, sequencers and transverters. Now this is an area where the market is NOT saturated! 4. And having nothing to do with VHF+, an MF receive antenna/preamp intended for indoor use. Perhaps take a highend AM broadcast receive antenna system and adapt it to 160 and maybe 80. 5. As long as we're at the bottom end of the spectrum, high end receive converter, antenna preamp system for the sub-550khz bands. 6. More test equipment to go with the wide range of gear available. And with enclosures available for all of it. I think that's enough to keep the folks at Elecraft off the streets and out of trouble for at least one long weekend! It's probably a good thing I'm not King of the World, but it's fun to dream. Thanks for reading, David KD0R __ 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] K2 - Connecting the K2 to a RigBlaster Pro and computer - Results
Good Morning to All Since there is no OpNote on this combination I thought I'd publish what I've learned to date. So far so good: 1. The combination is a K2 (QRP stock with all internal modules less the ATU. No modifications to any module.) , RIGblaster pro, and an XP configured machine with two RS-232 ports 2. The RIGblaster is configured to pass TXD and TXD through from the A to the B db9 connector. 3. The Elecraft data cable is going directly from the computer to the K2. (To go from the RIGblaster to the K2 would require a db9 male to male gender changer.) 4. Receive Audio 'method 1' is being used. That is K2 speaker audio is routed to the RIGblaster then to the computer's line in plug. An external speaker is connected to the RIGblaster, as are the computer speakers. Thus sound card input is adjusted via the AF Gain on the K2 and the Line In slider in the computer. 5. The following connections are made on the back of the RIGblaster: a. Mic Out to the K2 b. Speaker Out to an external speaker ( I want to put a little amp inside this speaker with an on/off switch and separate gain control.) c. Audio In from K2 Ext Speaker d. Line Out to computer Line In e. Line In to computer Line Out f. Speaker Out to computer speakers g. CW Out to a junction box I built to allow several mixed key and paddle inputs. The diodes needed for the K2 to auto detect paddle or on/off keying are in the box. h. Serial Com RS232 IN/OUT to computer COM port 1. i. 12 VDC power to a wall wart. I seem to have full control of the K2 with 'K2 Remote.' I have completed SSB, CW, and PSK31 QSOs and tested RTTY. CW has been tested with both the internal keyer and manual keys, in addition to computer generated CW. Digipan and MixW both work to generate the expected modes. K2 Remote will send CW. (I sure wish the send buffer in that was larger!) However, I've not set then up to read the frequency or do band/freq changes yet, so I don't know how that will go. I've not yet tried HRD with the setup. I've also not tried to get my logging program, N3FJP's ACLOG, to read the freq etc. So far the biggest issue in making the software play nice seems to be ensuring that the DTS/RTS configuration in the software is correct. That's what I know to date. I still need to trouble shoot my W1 and get it back into service. When it's ready, I'll have to put it on a USB to RS232 adapter to get it back on the screen. Likewise, I've got some trouble shooting to do on the KAT2 before it goes into the mix, but unless it interacts with the AUX I/O board I don't anticipate any trouble there. 73 de KD0R David David Heinsohn wrote: Evening All I think it's time for a bit more of the combined wisdom of the list before I proceed. The rig is a K2. It has all the internal modules except the ATU at this point. I have successfully used both HRD and K2 Remote to control the K2. The RigBlaster Pro is several years old. It was connected to an Icom - 706 until tonight, but only really used for PSK31 with Digipan. P1, the mic jumper block has been reconfigured to the K2. And an on air test was satisfactory. It's now time to configure P16 for Rig Ctl, CW, PTT, FSK, etc. I believe that diagram #9 on page 29 of my manual is the correct configuration. Then the 232 cables would be compter to RigBlaster 232-A, and RigBlaster 232-B to K2. Is this correct? And finally, what experience do others have in connecting and using the K2 with a RigBlaster? Any recommendations on other hookups that work best? Maybe some that aren't obvious? TNX to All de KD0R David __ 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] K2 - Connecting the K2 to a RigBlaster Pro and computer
Evening All I think it's time for a bit more of the combined wisdom of the list before I proceed. The rig is a K2. It has all the internal modules except the ATU at this point. I have successfully used both HRD and K2 Remote to control the K2. The RigBlaster Pro is several years old. It was connected to an Icom - 706 until tonight, but only really used for PSK31 with Digipan. P1, the mic jumper block has been reconfigured to the K2. And an on air test was satisfactory. It's now time to configure P16 for Rig Ctl, CW, PTT, FSK, etc. I believe that diagram #9 on page 29 of my manual is the correct configuration. Then the 232 cables would be compter to RigBlaster 232-A, and RigBlaster 232-B to K2. Is this correct? And finally, what experience do others have in connecting and using the K2 with a RigBlaster? Any recommendations on other hookups that work best? Maybe some that aren't obvious? TNX to All de KD0R David __ 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] W1 - Power readout Low
I recently built a W1. It worked fine both via the LEDs and remotely via the puter. About a week ago the indicated output power dropped such that it always shows less than 1.4w. The selected output on the K2 is 5w. My old analog 200w scale power meter still shows about 5w as it did when the W1 was agreeing with it. Any ideas what's changed that might cause this? I've looked at the manual and checked the settings on the remote program. Even locked the W1 to the 14w scale with no effect. TNX de kd0r David __ 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] Spectrogram Software
Does anyone have a good link Spectrogram Software? The link from the Elecraft site and one other one I've found are under construction with no links to the software. TNX AGN de kd0r David __ 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] W1 Circuit Board
I just started working on the W1. So I just really looked at the circuit board. I noticed that the pads seem to be white rather than silver or gold. So all you bright folks can tell me what's different and why. I assume that this is a new and better way to produce a board. It certanly takes solder OK. TNX de KD0R David __ 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] K2 #6708 is out of the Hospital
Well I got the new PA, Driver and PA Bias stuff installed last night and got the testing finished as well. The little grey box with the bright green eyes is once again sitting on the shelf above the paddles doing it's thing. It's nice to have it back. I also had a bit of cosmetic surgery done while it was in the hospital - It now has a cute little dimple on it's mouth/knob. The tuning dimple is a bit more than I might have liked to pay for it, but it does make tuning easier. de KD0R David __ 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] K2 - 160 meter Hi Current on Transmitt.
Hi All Hope I can get a bit of help here and that the solution is a simple one. As I was putting the K2 back together I installed the 160 module and tested it. Everything seemed to go fine until I got to the transmitter tune up. The receive worked fine, could easily hear some stations on 1.830. The receive antenna worked fine on 160 and other bands. BUT, when I attempted to tune the transmitter on 1.850 with the power set to 2 watts, it went right to Hi Curr and dropped the power to .02. The voltage display goes to 12.6 from 13.4, which is about the same as other bands. Current at 0.2 w in tune after the Hi Curr is 1.84. I've retuned the transmitter on 80 to be sure I had it peaked. It seems to be. So does anyone have any good ideas? Time to go mow the rest of the yard and work on the SSB module! 73 de KD0R David __ 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] K2 - Dead Q7!
It's a sad day at KD0R. #6708 is in the hospital. I noted this afternoon that there was only 0.1 w shown as output during TUNE. And the outboard power meter was not wiggling. I read the manual, then opened things back up to inspect. When I got the heat sink off the problem was obvious. Q7 was in three pieces! At not time did I get a CAL CUL, or other over current message. CAL CUR was set to 3.5 per page 90. I've been running at 5 w and seeing no more than 10 w during TUNE as I adjusted the antenna tuner. R50 checks out fine. At some point the K2 popped the 5 A circuit breaker on the RigRunner. I'd not noticed that I'd plugged into on of the smaller breakers on the Rig Runner. not thinking much about it I moved it to a 10 A circuit. So what other stuff should I check before I call CA on Monday? And what other parts, if any should I order along with Q7. Pictures of the failed Q7 in situ are available. de KD0R David __ 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] K2 #6708 Speaks
Hello All At 1717Z today, K2 Serial nr 6708 spoke it's first words. My thanks to KA9S, Jeff, for answering my VERY poorly sent CQ, on what seemed to be a dead band. I finally got back to building again early this month and got the last of the soldering done this weekend. Today I did the 40 mtr final alignment and testing. Everything went without a hitch. I sent a few TEST' signals to myself on the 706. It sounded really sweet. (The 40 mtr ant the K2 was using crosses 12 under the 160 mtr dipole the 706 was using. I expected massive overload of the 706 but it did ok. Conversly the K2 had no trouble dealing with the 706s signal even with the ATT off. Now on to the rest of the tune up procedure. But first the cover goes on and I take it with us to visit my dad, WA0ZWW. The visit is for other purposes, but he'll enjoy seeing the new rig!. 73, es TNX to the folks at Elecraft for the fun I've had so far. de KD0R, David __ 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] EQP
Call KD0R I was working on building my K2 so mostly I was listening on 160 and soldering. SPC - Two Power and Rig FT-890 @ 5 W CW Contacts - two - Thanks guys for putting up with my lousy fist. See you all next time with my own Elecraft serial number. 73 de KD0R David __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 vs K3 ?
Don Wilhelm wrote: I must agree with Jim Duffey's assessment. The K2 is a great transceiver, but when all the options are added to make it an all band 160m through 10 meter transceiver with SSB and noise blanker and audio DSP, the K3 with its built-in 160 meter through 6 meter coverage, built-in IF DSP which allows not only SSB but FM and AM modes too, the small price differential makes the K3 a bargain priced transceiver. While I have NO argument with this reasoning, I chose to build the K2 because I could afford it as a basic kit. And I have every reason to think that I'll be able to afford to add about one of the listed options a month. This I will be able to do without putting anything on my already overstressed credit cards. Were I to try to buy a K3 it would be many months before the cash would be in hand. [ The budget committee, KB4WYR, is fully behind this project as well. And would lament having to wait for a K3.] The K2 is expected to be one of the building blocks for our VHF/UHF station, with a K3 coming along as it can. I'm thinking that this combination will give us a good high end weak signal station for 50 mhz and up. 73 de KD0R #6708 in build __ 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
