[Elecraft] K3s - Low Output Power
My K3s has been in service for several years. Power output has always easily reached roughly 100 watts. Now, with: 1. ATU TUNE bypassed 2. Good 50 ohm dummy load 3. W1 in line with the load 4. SWR 1:1 Next: 1. With the PWR control set to show 100 watts on the LCD 2. Select TUNE 3. W1 shows about 80 watts output 4. K3s LCD PWR display shows roughly 80 watts (both the "analog" display and the numerical display) (depending on band) I just used the K3 Utility to insure my firmware is up to date. It is. And, I used the Utility to calibrate the transmitter gain. This did NOT change the results of my power measurements. I am hoping I am making a bone-headed mistake. Ed KD3Y __ 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
It is probably necessary to restate my question with more precision. 1. I have calibrated the K3s using Elecraft K3 Utility 2. I have carefully calibrated the W1 using the DDM method with a good quality DDM. 3. Comparing the results, I see that the W1 consistently calculates power about 1 dB higher than the K3s. Statistically, I would have expected them to be closer. From the W1 specifications, and not knowing the K3s power accuracy specifications, it seems that, possibly, the K3s is displaying about 3 sigma low and the W1 3 sigma high, which is unlikely. 4. The question: Should the K3s be calibrated from the W1 or should the W1 be calibrated from the K3s? (There could be a detailed, separate discussion of the meaning of "average" power and "PEP" as used in the W1 programming reference. It is my belief that the two should be the same thing if using a cw signal and the FCC definition of "PEP". It would be interesting to know what is going on in the K3s transmitter gain calibration process. It seems like there is an internal power measurement process and the gain is being set against that. Does that internal measurement process have accuracy equivalent to the W1 or vice versa?) Ed KD3Y __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] FW: W1
John, Thank you for your response. My original K3s test setup was per the manual: good quality dummy load (not the DL1 because of its 20 watt upper limit) with the ATU off. My high quality dummy load does not have a test point. After reading your results, I decided to take the DL1 as my "truth model". I found that the W1 display was 0.8 dB high and the K3s power display was 0.9 dB low. Each one was at the opposite end of the error budget. (sort of like winning the "losers" lottery). So, I set up the W1 to match the DL1 up to 20 watts and, surprise, the W1 TP voltage is now 4.87 volts. I don't have the W1 software and cabling installed yet. At that time I can fine tune all of this. It seems as though a consensus is building that the W1 manual specification of 4.5 volts is no longer correct, unless there is something "off" with the W1 internal algorithm. Good stuff. Thank you everyone for your comments and help. -Original Message- From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of John Oppenheimer Sent: Thursday, December 31, 2015 7:22 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] W1 Hi Ed. The W1 DC voltage calibration resulted with incorrect reading with my W1. My hunch is that components have changed since Elecraft established the TP1 DC calibration voltage almost a decade ago. I have a KX3F with unchanged factory power calibration. Based on comments from Wayne, the KX3 is calibrated at 7.0 watts. My W1 TP1 voltage is 4.812 using a Fluke 87V Setting up a test bench with KX3 -> W1 -> DL1 Using W1 Utility to display W1 power: http://www.elecraft.com/software/W1/elecraft_w1_software.htm TP1 V = 4.812 KX3 power = 7.0 W W1 power = 7.02 DL1 V = 12.91 = 6.93 watts The W1 20 dB directional coupler does absorb power, at 7 watts, the directional coupler will absorb 0.07 watts. Adding 0.07 to the DL1 measurements equals 7.00 watts. John KN5L __ 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 g_e_lamb...@comcast.net __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] W1
Regarding my earlier message, I am guessing that the W1 displays peak power "out of the box" and I am guessing that the K3 power is average power. If the above is true, then the K3 is actually showing a higher output power than, in fact, it is producing. Until I know, for sure, what is being measured in each (the W1 and the K3), I guess I cannot make meaningful comparisons between the two. Ed KD3Y __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] W1
Just before Christmas I finished building a K3s/100. I did the transmitter gain calibration using the Elecraft K3 Utility. This week, to satisfy my need for rosin fumes, I completed a W1. I carefully calibrated the W1 using the DMM method (Fluke 189). Working into a 50 ohm dummy load, I notice that the W1 reads considerably higher power than that set on the K3s. The W1 is generally about "one LED" higher than the K3. For example, right now when the K3 setting just reaches 79 watts, the W1 100 watt LED illuminates. Before digging deeper, is there a known answer to the question "Which one is correct?" Ed KD3Y __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] N-gen
I had an opportunity to visit a very sophisticated lab on Wednesday where they were testing a complex software/hardware system whose implementation requires an almost perfect detection rate of positive events while achieving almost zero false alarms. (What else is new?) This is a public safety system where errors in either direction are capable of large loss of life and huge costs. (The company involved expects the system to generate almost $700M in revenues over the next five years; this is a large effort.) A part of the system is a data link implemented mostly through a UHF and VHF radio channel. I asked them how they accounted for random noise in the test process. They walked me behind a rack of equipment and there, amidst its orders of magnitude more expensive brethren, was a tiny little Elecraft N-gen happily generating noise 24/7. I asked where it came from because I wanted to talk Elecraft with another amateur, but nobody seemed to know. It just seemed to have appeared one day. More Elecraft MOJO? Ed Lambert PE __ 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] KAT2 Error code 202
Please note that I also receive this error code on my KAT2 (202). I have successfully gone through all of the testing steps to ensure that each inductive and capacitive component is available and can be switched into and out of the circuit. It is my impression, however, that the tuner unit does not work as well as it did when first installed. Some relatively simple loads will not tune below, say, 1.8 - 2.0 to 1. Ed Lambert KD3Y __ 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] QRZ.com
I've been having intermittent trouble with QRZ.com all summer. One minute here; the next, gone. __ 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 Repair
As a prospective K3 customer, I have been following this link with very great interest. I would be interested in knowing what percent of K3 deliveries require return to Elecraft for repair and of that cohort, what is the percentage of K3's that were fundamentally defective upon delivery as opposed to damaged by customer (mis)use. For me the weakness of the K3 is the (probably necessary) departure from the kit model of the rest of the Elecraft line where self repair is the order of the day. The repair of a K3, it seems to me, almost certainly requires a factory return, which, from this thread, is somewhat unappealing. I am interested further discussion on this thread in order to help me determine whether my very limited funds go toward a K3 purchase or the purchase of a second, but fully tricked out, K2/100. Ed Lambert, KD3Y (K2 1999, KX1 1492) __ 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 Repair
Hi Guys, Please don't misunderstand my original question. (And thanks to all who have contributed to an interesting discussion.) I had been inactive for quite some time when I purchased a K2. That purchase not only returned me to the hobby, but it also made me, probably, a lifetime Elecraft devotee. I will be purchasing either a tricked out K2 or a K3. The Asian manufacturers are not in consideration. Please note that it is not my intention to be critical of Elecraft or the K3. I understand the technology changes that have mandated a slight change to the Elecraft business model where we are dealing, more or less, with a line replaceable unit (LRU) concept radio as contrasted with a component level repair model like the K1, K2, and KX1. I am only trying to get an idea of the scope of the problem, if there is one. The repair times for the K3 seem to indicate a long queue and I naturally wonder what is in that queue. If it is filled with K3's, I wonder why. My life has changed from employment to retirement; every dollar is very important to me in this new fixed income world in which I now live. If there is some kind of quality control issue developing with the K3, I would like to get a handle on it so that I can make an informed decision about a (2nd) K2 purchase versus a more expensive K3 purchase. I would not expect a zero defect business model to be in place at Elecraft. Having said that, however, I would like to obtain and understand the out-of-the-box and the infant mortality failure rate data for the K3, if such information exists. Thanks, Ed, KD3Y, PE (electrical) __ 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] KIO2 with KUSB
I built and installed the KIO2 about 6 or 7 years ago, successfully used it in one contest and then entered a period of relative inactivity where the KIO2 was not used. During the recent CQ WPX, I realized that my old KIO2 - computer serial cable was relatively useless to me now because my current computers have USB, not serial connections. (And my original KIO2 serial cable has become lost.) I purchased the KUSB and carefully installed the Elecraft recommended driver. The first problem I noticed was that when I plugged the KUSB into my computer (I tried this on two different computers) is that the New Hardware Wizard appears. (I wasn't expecting this; I thought that the installation was complete). So, the first time I ignored the wizard and tried to connect my K2. No good; the K2 is completely locked up. I cannot control it from the front panel nor can I control it from the computer. So I uninstalled and reinstalled the driver and, this time did not ignore the Wizard. I manually selected the appropriate driver and tried again. I got the same result. Has anybody seen a problem like this? Full disclosure: my faithful dog, Chama, became entangled in the wire mess under my desk during the contest and dumped the K2 onto a concrete floor. I have noticed no changes in the radio's operation and have done some visual and electrical checks and found nothing wrong. That doesn't mean, however, that my KIO2 wasn't damaged somehow. I welcome any ideas. Ed Lambert KD3Y __ 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] Acknowledgement
My amateur career has been characterized by fits and starts and a series of really terrible station locations with concomitant crummy antennas. About eight years ago, after a long hiatus, I purchased a K2, mainly for the enjoyment of the build. I was very pleasantly surprised at the strong performance it always seemed to turn in. This morning, after another long hiatus, and at yet another crummy location with a 20 meter dipole in my attic space and after a credible WPX performance, I was able to work, with little difficulty, the ZK3X expedition in Tokelau. I would like to credit this contact to superior operator skill and so I will. The superior operator was on the other end. Thank you for your great ears. (There is a 67% chance he was using a K3). And thank you to all of you who have made operating my K2 such a good experience. It is your skill at digging my signal out of the noise that has provided more than half of my enjoyment. And last, thank you to Eric and Wayne for creating such a superior set of products and creating, in my opinion, a completely new paradigm in the amateur community. Ed Lambert KD3Y __ 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 S/N 1999
I have been inactive for about 5 years. My K2 is cw only with KNB2, KDSP2, KAF2 (now uninstalled), KAT2, and KIO2. I want to get back on the air and want to bring my transceiver up to current specification for possible modification to K2/100. Discussion with Elecraft staff at Dayton seemed to indicate that I really didn't need to do much to my radio to install the KPA100 option. However, the KPA100 manual seems to want a complete A to B upgrade in addition to K2KEYMDKT, E850138 and BFOMDKT. I have been stubbornly resistant to some of these upgrades because they result in great insult to the inherent beauty of my radio (it has no trace cuts nor does it have slapdash parts soldered hither and yon. I think I have gotten past this squeamishness, however, and am ready to move forward. My other possibility is to wait for the (I think) KPA500 and bypass the 100 watt upgrade altogether, hopeful that I will be able to bypass the 15 dB amplification limits imposed by the FCC. (I have been waiting a long time for the KPA 2000, KPA 1500 and KPA 1000, however.) I would be interested in the experiences of those who have made the 100 watt upgrade to an older K2 and also in the general thoughts of the 100 vs 500 watt option. Ed Lambert K2 1999 KD3Y __ 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: too easy to overwrite dial memories
For example, a (hypothetical!) button that shuts down the jet engines on an aircraft requires a confirmation step... because turning off the engines until the pilot hits UnDo would be bad! This rule applies to software as well as hardware. -- Eric K3NA This has no bearing on the current discussion but might be interesting to some. The button that shuts down jet engines is protected only by the human instinct to survive. We sit there for thousands of hours in the cockpit and never have any impulse to move those switches to the cutoff position, except during an intentional engine shutdown. (You usually have to lift and move to get to the cutoff position; you can't brush against them and move them.) I can only recall one case where a B767 pilot moved both switches to the cutoff position unintentionally. He thought they were something else I think. That event had a happy outcome. He did resort to an undo procedure. Some airplanes with overhead panel pushbutton fire switches are guarded mechanically to avoid hitting them with your head or shoulder when you get out of your seat. (The fire switches cut off fuel to the engine, among other things.) Ed Lambert KD3Y (B747-400) ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] The Complete DXer - OT
One night, 23 January 2008, during a lull in the action on a flight from Anchorage to Chicago, I tuned the #2 HF radio to 7.012 MHz and heard W9KNI calling cq dx asia. He was rewarded with quite a run. It was instructive simply to listen to him in qso with a number of stations during that run. He was running one KW to a three element yagi. He did not say what was driving the KW. I am thinking it was a K3 but don't know for sure. I wish I had some way to get the HF radio on to cw (it only supports upper sideband and AM). I could probably get it done with a good audio oscillator and usb but am not sure if that would work properly. I would like to have tried to contact Bob. I wasn't really dx and certainly wasn't asia but I wonder if he's ever worked a B747 on HF cw. Ed Lambert KD3Y ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 AGC
My K2 s/n 1999 was completed in February 2002. Last Sunday, during the EC Nets, I noticed that some strong stations were actually getting audio signals into my ears that were close to the threshold of pain. I also noticed they were not deflecting the S meter one bar. After some experimenting, I discovered that my agc was intermittent. Recalibrating it sometimes brings it back to life. Touching pin 7 of U1 on the control board seems inconclusive for me. I cannot hear the signal on or about 10.136 MHz, but I have been doing this in the operating position while standing on my head on a banana peel with three tools in each hand. Maybe when I get it on the bench I'll be able to hear the signal. At this time I suspect a marginal solder joint somewhere in the signal path from pin 8 of U12 on the RF board to pin 1 of 1 on the control board, or one of the pins on U1 or U12, or a bad crystal X1 on the control board. I intend to do some signal tracing in these areas to see if I can induce the problem one way or the other. (Simply resoldering all of the joints is a last resort; I'd prefer to learn something and identify the exact problem.) I am curious about the S meter calibration process since it sometimes seems to shock the system into operation. Can anyone tell me how that process interacts with U1? I am also curious if the collected wisdom of the reflector has seen a similar problem and might be able to shorten my search before I start digging into this. Ed Lambert KD3Y ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] CB band TX? - I'm shocked!
Amen Ed KD3Y -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:elecraft- [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Goody K3NG Sent: Wednesday, December 19, 2007 6:12 PM To: Elecraft List Subject: Re: [Elecraft] CB band TX? - I'm shocked! I don't see a problem with CB transmit capabilities. In fact, I think it should be configurable by the end user. Let me explain. Recently our county has been getting its act together in regards to Emcomm, so we've been doing drills and educational programs at meetings. As an amateur, you need to be prepared to communicate on non-ham frequencies, like FRS or CB. Sometimes in a disaster situation you may need to communicate with non-hams who are only equipped with FRS or CB. One prime example of this in a drill we did was a trucker coming in to deliver supplies to a shelter. We needed to talk in the driver to the shelter over CB. As far as soiling your K3, look at it this way; you'll probably have the sweetest, cleanest sounding AM signal on the CB band :-) Yea, I know it's not type accepted for use in CB/Part 95, but neither are the thousands of amplifiers and specially tuned chrome monsters you see on eBay each day. Also, any CBer wanting a hot signal isn't going to buy an Elecraft K3. For much less money they can buy one of those garbage rigs and a six pill amp with more so-called talk power. All my rigs are modified for DC to daylight transmit. Do I ever use it? No, but it's good to know that if I'm ever put in the situation I can fire up communications on most any band in a heartbeat. Sure, I can wreak havoc on any band as well with my equipment and its expanded functionality, but that's why we're licensed amateurs.we know not to do that stuff and we have the know how and motivation to use our powers for good, not evil 73 Goody K3NG Ken Kopp wrote: Eric's reply (below) reads as if the K3 will TX in the 27 mHz CB band as built. Surely no self-respecting Elecraft owner would soil his radio by transmitting in the CB band! The radio should self-destruct if a user attempted to transmit there. It should -always- block CB band transmit. I don't know of a legitimate reason for a K3 to transmit on 27 Mhz anywhere in the world. Say it isn't so, please -- Blog: http://thek3ngreport.blogspot.com/ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Re;Shipping status...ENOUGH ALREADY!!
Before you cancel a K3 order, please consider contacting me off reflector. Ed Lambert, KD3Y -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:elecraft- [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Charlotte Bob Higgins Sent: Thursday, December 13, 2007 10:15 AM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Re;Shipping status...ENOUGH ALREADY!! Oh, please! What is it you guys don't get? We are tired of posts about when will my K3 ship, when should it have shipped, why didn't it ship, why can't Elecraft do a better job of shipping it. Please select one of two options: 1. Wait patiently for your K3, and in the meantime enjoy your hobby with the radio you currently have (this is my personal choice). 2. Cancel your order and be done with it (this will make hams behind you on the waiting list happy). Bob K4LW So I take it you want anything to do with the K3 off the reflector? Or are you just picking on one subject? Uu what can we talk about? Only K1, K2, KX1 problems, but not K3 problems (which would include shipping). Please let us know so we know what to talk about don't offend you guys. K8DD Bill Johnson wrote: I am not taking this out on anyone personally, as there have been so many emails on this topic so let me speak my peace Please, please keep these off the reflector. The explanations have been more than adequate. If you have issue, either email or call Lisa, etc., or cancel your order. ENOUGH ALREADY! 72, Bill K9YEQ K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc. ___ ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 Positions
I note that several potential K3 owners have cancelled their orders. Does Elecraft have a position on sale of these delivery positions to third parties? I, for one, would be interested. Ed Lambert, KD3Y KX1 1492 K2 1999 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Just Wonderin'...
I priced the tube about 1 1/2 years ago. Contact EIMAC sales. I believe their quote was on the order of $600 - $700. Ed KD3Y -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:elecraft- [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Andy - GM0NWI Sent: Saturday, October 20, 2007 1:20 PM To: 'Elecraft Discussion List' Subject: [Elecraft] Just Wonderin'... Guy's... Santa came REAL early this year.. today I took delivery of the ARRL Handbook 2008 and the new version of the Low Power Communications book by Rich Arnald.. It's gonna be a good one..! Flickin' through the new Handbook I came across the article again for the 3CX1500D7 RF Linear Amplifer... the Very same one that was featured on the front cover of last years handbook with the write up inside also.. It got me thinkin... Exactly HOW MUCH, would the tube or tubes for one of these beauties cost in todays money..?? Also the base for the Tube, HOW MUCH would that be..?? WHERE would one purchase such things.. (don't see any reference in the article to places that may stock these).. Indeed if the parts are expensive at todays prices ... is there an older alternative that one could use in such A homebrew project..?? Enquiring Minds Are REALLY INTERESTED in learnin..' 72's 73's [EMAIL PROTECTED] Andy GM0NWI Elecraft K2 Fully Loaded QRP S/n 01432 Elecraft K2 Fully Loaded QRO S/n 05469 No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.488 / Virus Database: 269.15.3/1081 - Release Date: 19/10/2007 17:41 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Just Wonderin'...
Also be sure to carefully check the schematic; the one in the 2007 Handbook contained many, many errors. Ed KD3Y -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:elecraft- [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Andy - GM0NWI Sent: Saturday, October 20, 2007 1:20 PM To: 'Elecraft Discussion List' Subject: [Elecraft] Just Wonderin'... Guy's... Santa came REAL early this year.. today I took delivery of the ARRL Handbook 2008 and the new version of the Low Power Communications book by Rich Arnald.. It's gonna be a good one..! Flickin' through the new Handbook I came across the article again for the 3CX1500D7 RF Linear Amplifer... the Very same one that was featured on the front cover of last years handbook with the write up inside also.. It got me thinkin... Exactly HOW MUCH, would the tube or tubes for one of these beauties cost in todays money..?? Also the base for the Tube, HOW MUCH would that be..?? WHERE would one purchase such things.. (don't see any reference in the article to places that may stock these).. Indeed if the parts are expensive at todays prices ... is there an older alternative that one could use in such A homebrew project..?? Enquiring Minds Are REALLY INTERESTED in learnin..' 72's 73's [EMAIL PROTECTED] Andy GM0NWI Elecraft K2 Fully Loaded QRP S/n 01432 Elecraft K2 Fully Loaded QRO S/n 05469 No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.488 / Virus Database: 269.15.3/1081 - Release Date: 19/10/2007 17:41 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] To The K3 Design and Production Team
It is amazing to me that such a small group of individuals can design and produce a product of this complexity and quality. That a handful of people did this is just . amazing. Where is their multimillion dollar research department, their HR department, their executive support? How could they possibly have accomplished this without the support of the Harvard Business School? A handful of people have risked almost everything to participate in a project in which they believed. Maybe I'm just grouchy sitting here on the backside of the clock in Shanghai but the sniping at the design by some of us who did nothing to contribute to the project is starting to get irritating. (Yeah I know, irritation can produce a pearl.) I apologize in advance for being such a curmudgeon but I would say to the outside experts:Lead, follow, or get out of the way. I salute Eric, Wayne, et al for even having the ambition to start such an undertaking. Thank you, Elecraft, you are an inspiration for more than just your radios. Ed Lambert, PE K2 1999, KX1 1492 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Knipex Coated-Wire Stripping Tweezers
A long time ago someone posted this tool as a great way to strip enamel from toroid wire. I have searched high and low for a retailer but can't find one. Apparently Knipex does not sell direct. Does any one know where to purchase? Ed Lambert KD3Y ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] getting a second radio
Ron N1SZW wrote: I don't frequently comment here on the reflector (except that we miss Nils, El Gringo Errante) but this question warrants an on-topic aside. Yeah, so do I! Ed KD3Y ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Power Measurement
The formula given in my DL1 manual is not correct, in my view. The lower the power, the more incorrect it becomes. Ed Lambert KD3Y ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] KX1
I get consistent power measurement results using a Fluke DMM and Elecraft DL 1 and an o'scope connected to the DL 1. I triple check with a calibrated HP signal generator checked against my KX 1 attenuated to match the HP generator. I am pretty confident in my measurements. I have received many replies and the great majority has outputs similar to mine. Only a few reported the higher power output. It would be interesting to know what the prototype results were. Although, I am sure that is where the specs originate Ed Lambert, PE KX1 1492 K2 1999 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX1 Perhaps some caution about the accuracy of wattmeters might be in order. Might be unwarranted concern. (:-)) 73! Ken Kopp - K0PP ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KX1
I moved into a new house in the beginning of September and finally got on the air from the kitchen table with batteries, an inverted v on the deck and KX 1 1492. It is still a total delight. I manage to get 2.5 to 3.0 watts out of it on 20 M with 12.8 volt supply. I wonder how many on the reflector get 3.5 to 4.0 watts as specified so I can figure out if I want to dig into it and tune the inductors and transformer. I really don't want to do that unless most of you get the higher powers. I can have many enjoyable qso's at the lower powers and don't want to ruin the rig by tearing into it. I will see if Kevin R can hear me this evening on 20. Ed Lambert, KD3Y K2 1999 KX 1 1492 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Status of Linear Amplifiers
Anyone know the approval status or distribution staus of the amplifiers shown at Dayton? Ed Lambert KD3Y ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KX1 1492 First Contact
Hey All, Just got my first contact with the subject KX1. I finished it two days ago and have been running tests since. It was with OT1A! 14009 MHz with a really crummy inverted v. I appreciate his ears! I have not yet installed the antenna tuner, either. My qth is Ann Arbor, MI. Ed Lambert, KD3Y K2 1999; KX1 1492 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] KX1 1492
I recently completed the subject KX1. The process was typically Elecraft; all parts were present, instructions clear and everything worked. One question for the group regarding power output. I get 2.9 watts on 20 and 3.4 watts on 40 with a supply voltage of 13.5. Are these powers low enough to warrant digging into the toroids (L1, L2, L3, T1)? I am interested in the experiences of others who have been there. (I measured the power into the Elecraft dummy load with a Fluke 189 and used the correct formula, not the one on the dummy load instruction sheet.) Ed Lambert, KD3Y K2-1999; KX1-1492 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] QRO
I am no expert on QRO but I am in the process of building the 3CX1500D7 amp in the 2006 handbook. I am as interested in the engineering aspects of QRO as in the engineering aspects of QRP. The economics of my project are getting a little out of hand so I visited the Alpha Booth at Dayton to see what they have done with their new amp, the 9500 and was very impressed. I almost lost my mind and gave them a deposit. Sanity prevailed. Then I remembered that Elecraft was doing an amplifier and walked 50 feet to their booth. I spoke with Eric for a while about the amplifiers (800 watt and 1500 watt versions). I was totally impressed with the design and would have given Eric a deposit if he had been taking them (I settled on a KX1 at the other end of the power spectrum). The big amp uses 16 FET's (not Motorola but I can't remember which ones) and auto senses transceiver frequency. An auto tuner is included, I think. The pricing is about 5/8ths or 5/9ths of the big Alpha. The pricing is sufficiently low and the features sufficiently high that I will have to seriously consider abandoning my project in favor of the Elecraft Amp. Of course, then I will lose out on the engineering and building experience. Oh, the Elecraft amps can be purchased assembled or in kit form. Kit form reduces the price 400 dollars or so. Ed Lambert, P.E. KD3Y K2/1999 KX1/1492 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] QRO
For me it is the cost of the tube ~$600, the enclosures (I was planning to purchase new) ~$300 -$400, power supply transformer ~$500 - $600, power supply capacitor ~$400 -$500, vacuum variable capacitors several hundred dollars, etc. I was planning to purchase all new; considerable savings by looking around. I wanted to go first class, but maybe won't be able to do it. My total cost for all new stuff would be several (4 or 5) thousands of dollars. And since I was going to revise the handbook design, there would be no assurance of total success. Ed Lambert, KD3Y I'm curious, what makes RF amplifiers fairly expensive projects? I admit I have no experience or exposure to them, but as far as I can tell the two major building blocks are a power supply and a not terribly complex amplifier circuit. Is the bulk of the cost in the amp device(s) - power transistors or vacuum tubes/values? Thanks. -Michael VE3TIX ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Hey, you Dayton hf attendees
-Original Message- From: Ed Lambert [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, May 22, 2006 8:23 AM To: 'N2TK, Tony' Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Hey, you Dayton hf attendees Yes I agree that the KPA 1500 was the hit of the show. My informal survey showed higher traffic at the Elecraft Booth than at Alpha (I was there Friday afternoon and Saturday morning). Both seemed to have high traffic. My wife tried to surprise me with a KX1 but could not get near the booth, even though she is blond and cute; I had to muscle in later to complete the purchase. Ed Lambert, KD3Y -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:elecraft- [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of N2TK, Tony Sent: Monday, May 22, 2006 7:40 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Elecraft (E-mail) Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Hey, you Dayton hf attendees What new amp? Just kidding. I think Eric was losing his voice from talking about the new ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] QRO
Antenna tuning in addition to auto tuning is a very desirable feature for me. The Elecraft amps include antenna tuning in addition to auto tuning. Alpha says they are working on an antenna tuner. So, add the cost of that unit to the $9100.00. Of course, tube amplifiers are maybe not as sensitive to antenna match but at these voltages and currents... Ed Lambert, KD3Y ...new Elecraft amp over a tube design featuring auto tuning such as the Acom or the Alpha (older 87A or the new 9500)? Lou, W0FK ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] QRO
One of the Alpha customers allegedly burned down his house by performing a stupid antenna trick. (Unmatched antenna in unfortunate proximity to his deck) Ed Lambert KD3Y ...but at these voltages and currents... ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
