Re: [Elecraft] Lightning concerns: Was: K4 Remote: My QTH vs. a friend's, many miles to the north
Hello Jorge, Thanks for an interesting thread, which elicited some good technical replies as well as some undeserved and rather haughty tut-tutting, presumably about valuable mail column-cm: the remedy for the latter is, of course, the delete button - a facility with which any reader of this mailer is well-practiced at using. I get the point you're making and have considerable sympathy for it: in a highly connected, and possibly remote, environment is it desirable for a manufacturer to do better than baseline digital I/O protection, especially as manufacturers themselves tout the remote connectivity as a selling point? I think it is, and I appreciate that you're not asking for magic: e.g, for primary lightning protection. Any increased port robustness, including galvanic isolation, is worth thinking about and - most importantly - so is bench and field serviceability. The all-too-common madness of entry-level ports on a dense motherboard is well worth avoiding! You mention the KPA1500 and I'm also a rather far-flung user of this PA. I can, and do, re-invent as many wheels as I need to in order to run safely a local and remote station but the KPA1500 service situation is egregious: no schematic and not even a decent block diagram to show port internal connectivity etc. Anyway, thanks again for the topic and the opportunity to register a vote for more robust I/O design, better serviceability and improved documentation. I hope your challenges are behind you soon! 73, Peter (VK6HP) -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Jorge Diez - CX6VM Sent: Monday, 6 May 2024 1:42 AM To: Mike Fatchett W0MU Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Lightning concerns: Was: K4 Remote: My QTH vs. a friend's, many miles to the north hello To finish with this topic, I was just wondering if a device that is intended for use in remote stations, always connected and in some cases with no one to disconnect during storms, could not have a better USB connector, for example If he tells me it can't be done, fine, my question has been answered and thank you very much. time to move on to other virtues of Elecraft 73, Jorge CX6VM/CW5W __ 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] K3s port isolation??
Hello Peter, I'm not an Elecraft transceiver user so I'll defer to others on the radio specifics. One thing to watch is that you're actually "seeing" the noise properly on the apparently high s/n port. In other words, make sure the levels are sufficient throughout the analog - digital chain in order to allow a proper s/n calculation to be performed. Not ensuring that is a classic way of getting an artificially high s/n. 73, Peter (Vk6HP) -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Peter Dougherty (W2IRT) via Elecraft Sent: Friday, 2 February 2024 10:39 AM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] K3s port isolation?? So I have a weird situation going on with my K3s. First a bit of background: I have been experiencing extreme powerline noise for years (this isn't about that), so I've been looking for ways of mitigating it on my end to at least get useful signals of some kind on 80 and 160. I have a K9AY loop RX antenna and a full-size 80m Inverted Vee at 65'. Tonight, I was switching between my Inverted Vee and the K9AY loop with an external noise-canceller (WIMO "QRM Eliminator") in line. It's somewhat effective with about a 30dB improvement on the K9AY. But then something quite unexpected happened. I wanted to see how low my noise floor was with this new device inline so I figured I'd switch to an empty antenna port (ANT-2 on the K3s). As soon as I pressed the button my noise floor dropped to from about -130 to -140 on my P3, lower than it's been in years. But I was still hearing FT8 and the signal-to-noise improved considerably. This is.surprising to say the least. How am I still able to copy weak FT8 signals (and CW) with absolutely nothing connected to the ANT-2 port? I'm talking about copying stations in A7, V3, CT3, and west-coast US, not strong locals. I don't think I've ever had lowband S/N that good before to be honest. What is the port isolation supposed to be like on the K3s and is what I'm seeing normal? Just to be clear, I disconnected my AUX antenna that I use occasionally for diversity RX, and my K9AY and it was still the same. Only my Inverted Vee was connected to the K3s. When I disconnected it everything dropped to nothing. Is what I'm seeing expected behaviour? And this leads to a big question. With ANT-2 selected for RX, (remember, there's nothing connected to the ANT-2 SO-239 on the radio) is it possible to select a different TX Antenna? I'd be pleased as punch to receive in this configuration but it's not practical to manually switch from ANT-2 on receive back to ANT-1 for transmit. Regards, Peter Dougherty, W2IRT __ 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 p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] Buying a K4 in UK
Thanks, but I'm not in need of advice on how to conduct transactions with Elecraft, and I have quite clear recollections of the discussions regarding delivery. In the end it's up to Elecraft whether they take on board the experience of international customers. For what it's worth, my experience with Kenwood equipment shipping has been very good, as has been the experience with the delivery of small-parcel express-post items from SDRKits. 73, Peter (VK6HP). -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Jim Brown Sent: Thursday, 3 August 2023 11:27 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Buying a K4 in UK On 8/2/2023 7:40 PM, Peter Hall wrote: > Unfortunately, Elecraft's preferred carrier - UPS - is certainly not > Tier-1 Elecraft is a small enough company that the issue of shipment could certainly be addressed when discussing a purchase. I've long heard that DHL is well respected in the UK. They're not well known here (although they used to be 30 years ago, and I used them in my biz to ship architectural drawings around), but Elecraft will probably know how to access them. Again, ASK! Elecraft is not like Kenwood, ICOM, or Yaesu! Anyone who's been on this reflector for very long knows that Wayne and Eric (who does most of the management stuff) are both online and read this reflector, and the company is online friendly. So is SDRKits (in the UK), from whom I've made four purchases over about ten years, all of which arrived painlessly by USPS. One of their people reads the support reflector for their excellent VNWA and responds promptly and in a very positive way to any issues. 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1hZ_9_rbk-L_8T3cUf4N8b8Ysg0mUJ7-OzOf0KFDl1ASFOumIybw4f11LQJXRvuMuDosnTutd4hzrYoNxdv6LG_M2iY4BUskJPnNqY6M7GdLJJIkmaxV1LUPC6yvTIYKgppqdWNxk_1F69wNfBdOGIpBEuddUXGlDtXsp-_L9TjayPYJ2uVhdVkFcqIQUxtoyNq2j3M94PM_u5sOMZyMiCET1GJlMud13-2lBM-EsHkQNmCD1B-pMO91qzxbrZJPvjemAiSPjlWrgVKUB-J6sa47yuZh1PE-sKb8q2lKxLkcAmJGvqxzBLNmdovTQEOspJ-alzKU4NgCChCvLdU9a6iAiFaOwpiOL2GjYnvA_M055S2pdSB-e7KVXJOCpJh5_zVxMvBe8FGj1VePb6vIEStY3_m3NeirYVWrs7xAzPdWYCGlyQhb4a3CFAhDE2v5qPnls4Eftje1Wgpx2MRR3tQ/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft Help: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1D_CVoqhKzIDm5oNrPVHjL5dSjPF_flfbYt86xslWc8_3_7Ab-rDESYRjGlYz89BtKQSmCkVWOUt3VCX8s8lchBiSitc1cK4nUrKBUEFCN020h0BOz1dn_zYNNhri3Xpv9YG3EHwdHYHaa2X6iUx4Wockwr2ynr6bpHrBN6HI-yNDZ0Qt5Fp_O7mk5BtGdHk7rubZp4SulNQMTJ10aDmZnRmgRNeVp8y1o0lD3ZS4MePf-fTXefyc5eH_9Es8nDfy0mmOlQokp_9qbQ5qZnBvUeCIxwPgvRNW9s54xKi89A2bp8VmJcKhVx0gJ0asDdI7g2PmyXDTHXXM1oS7CauMzq_rY3zQoW4_Dw34y_YmdUGzYxrrLvdRoGIVb_8xlKCMsCUjIIXK3Bneta0ZuVO5brlGS-P6RM0rLzap9KX_XyscxYp_iZlsQ5pfvn9tUj52pZ46ESr5HUtuKzd9icvUBg/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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 p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] Buying a K4 in UK
Fred, The workaround is to recognize in advance that the combination of USPS+Royal Mail, USPS+Australia Post, etc. is essentially hopeless and will lead to the recipient of high-ish value parcels having to do considerable work in order to ransom the item from the customs folks in the receiving country. The shipping process works much better when a Tier-1 courier is involved, since the customs and taxes can be arranged and paid during the transit stage. Unfortunately, Elecraft's preferred carrier - UPS - is certainly not Tier-1 in this part of the world and, in my experience, the recipient still has to do quite a bit of hand-holding and monitoring to make sure the import process goes well. My further experience over many years of shipping high-end scientific and test equipment leads me to prefer DHL but, unfortunately, shipping from Elecraft with DHL has been deprecated when I've suggested it. I think it'd be useful for Elecraft to pay attention to the feedback from Lower Spewing, Kanga Valley, or whatever international destinations are involved. There's not much of value in getting commentary from California! 73, Peter. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Fred Jensen Sent: Thursday, 3 August 2023 10:15 AM To: G4GNX Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Buying a K4 in UK G4GNX wrote on 8/2/2023 4:40 PM: > "Supposing that USPS do their job correctly" That might happen right after the pubs in the UK begin serving ice cold Guiness in frozen mugs, Alan. The US Postal Service used to be the most trusted agency of our government. Today, I put at least one and often more mis-delivered mail pieces into the do-over box for our carrier to get it right hoping that whoever got our mail is doing likewise. Benjamin Franklin, where are you?73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County -- This email has been checked for viruses by AVG antivirus software. http://www.avg.com/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1r935fz6TCfq7V-wRDrHwyFmL5X0RoZYQdkWeJKWQDDAEZjo_Zg_1Y5kyeXpBq1ogU_gvp_Hq8j4s6CUMlfsi_jsDNftrAXvWtj89OpjDSu9zXySw3_WIuH19E55zeS7dV_082ccjj5NMmDKUVlRgQWv-J0YlNWWOKkFcZl5thiBm5QncM01zl_bD2qgsbDM_FEmxTAeuWoF2GJX-rTzoOR7MqH4Hk05yA0h-D67eIKmigXDzYwRreO2rIuP4l37kQE_cSUFVX797D9pjnFSQIVbhgxAeVbOFnDCtdsuD2XP6GsmSf2IDf-7sqGoX_-qVeEIjoDl5hXjXPQ6S9yewjdtM2rtlLPGYvHKLOwhZNsEMYdb-NPRGc9NcotVJqkcHNVEP8tJ4CvT41sujytJviv6KYkDDMlPGXXM546kqMV85XR19cFlREKdIwvzGyBLAwJay2KSnffv3ITCmR_YvmQ/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft Help: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1tQTdHJcClKnkc7152Luud07dQEHPoIpMSpCgv-9G4RmSqhwNkwuuQ5ZT0Vokgk_kt5xe1TuZB7PH1868-b-toi0C8kxuEG1NKItkGK7Vh-fJk3fev0qbnmwSY_TIvQWzpIKowaPS8nhD5HsiJsptGe_r1b-s1RTjP2s3lt0BOwZ8O4bw62Bg8cQFVLQXJqTjsUoGk5amMh1WGDPquPqSI7ZqWu2wzBjrEuh8B8grWu_9-74_7Oy34UJiCrCzUebPkbDxO8rED4k5YhdcTaY1rodTyxQstAZtkpq-gjwTafgplcvh76G8RHexMmgzgZpUBz0XAxdfSC5qinww8W0ACjQFKQeo8BmtWAHfKutEY-SDd9o0r5iDX-iWgKycqQiEmb3_6YIjBxidiMVgGfTnZWFswzDyOUL3ek-Z4DKjQ4NRfWtitLpJ0gviUKXb-co3IbyIeK0iPCg12VMrZ48MeQ/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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 p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] Stripping & Tinning Enameled Wire - Fast, Easy, Reliably
Hi Gwen, I love my Hakko FR301 de-soldering gun but, while I've used a variety of melt/burn techniques for enamel wire insulation, I had not thought of using the de-soldering tool. I haven't noticed anyone mention wire stripping tweezers, which I've found to be a really handy tool when making inductors with a variety of wire sizes. I settled on a single size tweezer: https://au.element14.com/knipex/15-11-120/wire-stripper-0-6mm/dp/875958?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6Ongl-b99AIVwg5yCh3cgwwJEAQYASABEgLFsPD_BwE&mckv=_dc|pcrid|501152839127|pkw||pmt||slid||product|875958|pgrid|123988903131|ptaid|pla-293946777986|&CMP=KNC-GAU-GEN-SMART-SHOPPING Purists would probably have a few different sizes but the one referenced deals with my requirements for small receiving toroids, up to (e.g.) the LPF inductors in the 2200 m PA I've just finished (about 16 AWG, as I recall). These tweezers are very sharp and quite compact, so they can be angled to optimize the tinned lengths on e.g. partially-mounted toroids. It's a slightly longer and calmer process than the melt/burn approach. 73, Peter (VK6HP). -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Gwen Patton Sent: Saturday, 25 December 2021 3:53 AM To: Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Stripping & Tinning Enameled Wire - Fast, Easy, Reliably I'd love to have one of those vacuum desoldering tools. I feel in techno-lust with them watching Mr. Carlson's Lab on YouTube. I might try that trick you discovered, but I found that my electronic plasma arc lighter burns off enamel on anything but the thickest of magnet wire. Hold the wire with pliers, though, the inductance heats the wire very fast, and the enamel burns off in a twinkling. I'd avoid using the plasma arc trick on a toroid already soldered to the board at the other end. That might let out more than a little bit of magic smoke. 73, Gwen, NG3P On Fri, Dec 24, 2021, 12:35 PM CUTTER DAVID via Elecraft < elecraft@mailman.qth.net> wrote: > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email > list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to > ard...@gmail.com > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] feeding a half-wave dipole with ladder line
Ed, I missed your initial posting but just FYI I do something similar to what you describe. I re-purpose a ZS6BKW HF doublet several ways, using vacuum relay switching, to give (1) a 160 m base loaded vertical using a rudimentary elevated counterpoise and (2) a 630 m Marconi T fed against "real" ground. At the lower frequencies the 450 ohm ladder line (which normally forms the matching section for the ZS6BKW) becomes a top-loaded radiator (being shorted to form a single conductor), with additional base loading via separate homebrew couplers for 160 m and 630 m. In doublet mode the impedance at the bottom of the ZS6BKW matching section is 50 ohm, so I use a quality 1:1 current balun with an RG213 coax feeder to the shack. If you use a different doublet and vertical ladder line lengths you can calculate the impedance at the base of the ladder line and choose the best balun for the job. My setup is very much a compromise on a suburban block but does allow decent 630 m operation, along with HF capability. 73, Peter. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Ed Cole Sent: Sunday, 31 October 2021 7:26 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] feeding a half-wave dipole with ladder line Bob, Either you did not read what I wrote carefully enough, or I did a poor job of explaining. First off: I an not a HF DX chaser or HF Contest junkie. HF is a very occasional activity when I want a casual chat or check in a local net. Thus a compromise antenna for the "low bands". The existing 80/40m dipole is a fan dipole with 80 and 40m wires. I plan the new setup to run 40m at right angles for less interaction between them (been there done it experience). If all I wanted to do is 80/40 I would install the existing 1:1 balun at the feed and run coax to it. But I was thinking I could use window wire (commercially made) instead of the 12-inch parallel wires I show in the diagram. Whatever its impedance (probably like 300-ohm or 450). By shorting the ladder line I could feed the antennas as a shortened vertical on either 160m or 630m where the dipole wire would add "top-hat" loading. Similar to how the horizontal wire in an inverted-L works. I already have my 630m loading coil to use at the base; adding a tap it could work at 160m. I have vacuum relays to do the shorting. And yes there will be radials that are too short on 630m (1/4 wave is 522 feet and my property is 200x 300 foot). My question regarded choosing a proper balun to use on 80 & 40m. Running 140 foot of ladder wire on diagonal to the shack defeats using it as a vertical. Ideal would be a QRO ATU at the ground-end of the vertical wires (but I'm too cheap for that). I have a QRO Drake Tuner to do the job at the shack. I'll try out my 1:1 balun. 73, Ed - KL7UW __ 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] Is Kenwood listening?
I'll also note that the TS-890S example quoted surfaces in relatively few station setups and requires the operator to be determined in ignoring one of a couple of work-arounds. However, the point about manufacturer responsiveness is well made. I doubt that I will be making any modifications to my TS-890S, though. Apart from having low transmit IMD and good ALC dynamics (including no overshoot) the TS-890S works well with the KPA1500 and similar amplifiers, in part because of the per-band, per-mode power setting and limiting, and the pre-settable tune powers. I understand that Elecraft and several other US manufacturers also implement similar systems, which mitigate a number of potentially embarrassing (or worse) brain/finger problems. Manufacturers such as Icom and Yaesu could usefully catch up. 73, Peter (VK6HP) -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Jim Brown Sent: Wednesday, 22 September 2021 7:37 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is Kenwood listening? On 9/21/2021 12:58 PM, Andy Durbin wrote: > I have been personally involved with the investigation of several TS-590S > issues, either as the principal investigator/reporter, or supporting someone > else who found the problem. Kenwood fixed all these issues with firmware > updates, in one case issuing an update within a couple of weeks of receiving > the first report. Great news both here and from Wes. Kenwood is certainly the JA mfr who has done the most to minimize clicks, their rigs test well at ARRL Labs. In general, I found their user interface the most intuitive on the rigs I've owned, especially the TH-F6A, which is still my favorite talkie. Their new D74 digital talkie is the exception -- I couldn't do much of anything without digging out the printouts I'd made of the pdf manual, and it died just after warranty ended. The last of their HF rigs I've owned was a pair of TS850s. 73, Jim K9YC __ 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 p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] KPA1500 Power Level
Hello Barry, I'm not a CW op but use my KPA1500 a lot at the sort of output levels you're interested in (for obvious reasons). My operations are largely SSB, with the occasional JT mode digital on 160 m and 6 m. I have not found the KPA1500 power output stability to be an issue, despite the fact that the efficiency is degraded. The heatsink temperatures are certainly no worse than at higher power operation and the only real penalty is a small hip-pocket one when the power bill arrives. On the IMD front my own quick measurements show that the overall picture is also no worse than at high power but it's not much better either, although the higher order products are a bit lower. The KPA1500 manual is a poor effort for a premium product and, in areas like IMD specifications and any associated discussion, it's almost an exercise in studied disingenuity. An abiding irritation is the lack of a decent block diagram showing e.g. the connection points for signal and control lines. In the end, the amplifier is a good one although given our antipodean locations, it'd pay to review the SPE and other offerings both in technical and support terms. Personally, I like the Elecraft form factor and the relatively large amount of air in the two-box implementation. My relatively early serial number RF deck has been back to the US once for service and upgrade and, while I was particularly grateful to a few Elecraft people for help at an obviously difficult time (CV19), the overall experience was very average. 73, Peter (VK6HP). -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Barry Simpson Sent: Wednesday, 15 September 2021 6:15 AM To: Elecraft Mailing List Subject: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Power Level I have had a quick look through the KPA1500 manual and could not find any reference to running the amplifier at a lower power level than the rated 1,500w. Can anyone comment on the implications (eg temperature, efficiency and IMD) of running a KPA1500 at say 500w by simply reducing the drive power. Would the power level be stable if set to 500w or would it drift upwards or downwards during the course of an over on CW ? Thanks Barry Simpson VK2BJ __ 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 p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] Arecibo antenna collapses
Frank, I was the foundation project engineer for the Square Kilometre Array (which your URL refers to), as well as leading much of the effort to get the SKA pathfinders on the ground here in Western Australia. As you know, there's a complementary section of the Telescope in South Africa. Naturally we're all excited about the prospects of the SKA, with the pathfinders having already done much good work. However, despite many advances in signal processing over the years there is still a place for very large single aperture telescopes, such as the Chinese FAST instrument and (formerly) Arecibo. I might add that a good deal of the impetus for FAST came from the Chinese participation in the SKA consortium, a body in which the US originally participated but later withdrew from. While the millions of dollars do indeed mount up, the direct benefits and spin-offs from astronomy are substantial, even putting aside the basic science outcomes. I certainly hope the US is able to continue on its distinguished path in radio astronomy and, SKA and FAST aside, there are many other prospects - on and off-shore - for ensuring that happens. Like all science, though, it relies on the enlightened being able to spread the good word! 73, Peter (VK6HP). -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Frank Stein Sent: Thursday, 3 December 2020 10:20 AM To: Wes Cc: Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Arecibo antenna collapses There is also the Square kilometer array radio telescope: https://secure-web.cisco.com/12MAQQcd67xMePXjKd5h8T5I3McR14SDT4pj4Zx1A9cA08lv5nb8kOz0ZNAvZX7GbXyBQ-YSj_PmhDxNs3AlPdEx8-DL3FE-ZfPRtfBQwb6L5l06oidXgV_pudn0RjC4twig28CEn5qf9qqWWAey1azWK0TGwqHtIzASG3YBZhyJ-xrGUpz2x6sMGYKEWlg0qj-bHsWpA0lzPav6HAYtn9zFUmFBkDedjsZ5VSdPKmJeEKouXEzLAHbNJ_HnJ6LqHZQDTDJ7jLRyZutzV23lOI6A3jj4Mcbuab07BQrN0VV-6bCdnPvNpZNDWRFczzGu-F1fGlvlfXCGhCTigYwsyERaQLafgwrCJVuKdKww-6uFBy9lftPLhRazSzlCZX7--hRyXLmaD4auG6WsEz1YUxd9moALrCA-7mNSRynjOZrLRm0AKYjyi5G0v7yfYkN9D_D79Bn8paF0SbEa7S7Y3i8zAevBzseCNeDmzNNp7EaU/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skatelescope.org%2F It could be ready to operate before the decade is out and is even bigger. - frank W4TG On Wed, Dec 2, 2020 at 7:03 PM Wes wrote: > Did they show you the transmitter? > > Wes N7WS > > > On 12/2/2020 10:22 AM, Andrew Faber via Elecraft wrote: > > This is certainly getting way off topic on the Elecraft reflector, > > but I > can’t resist mentioning that I have visited the FAST telescope in > Guizhou Province. Here is a brief explanation from my trip notes (we > were guests because my wife is an astronomer with many Chinese > colleagues). It’s odd that they are creating a tourist destination, > since normally such telescopes are located to minimize RFI. > > > > “We were met by a driver from FAST in a Honda Odyssey for the > > two-hour > drive to Pingtang, China’s self-proclaimed “Astronomy City.” There is > a huge amount of new construction, as they try to take advantage of > the FAST to create a tourist destination. There are new shops and > hotels being built, and on the sides of the roads they even have > statues and bas reliefs of famous scientists and scientific > instruments. FAST stands for “Five hundred meter Aperture Spherical > radio Telescope,” and that’s just what it is – outdoing the 300-meter > radio telescope at Arecibo, Puerto Rico by far. It’s in a valley that > had a dozen or so homes before they houses were demolished. It’s 500 > meters across, and is partly steerable, since the panels can be > somewhat deformed by 4,000 actuators pulling on cables that tug on the > panels that comprise the reflective surface. The receiving “cabin” is > suspended on cables attached to six huge (maybe 350-400 feet > tall) towers. So by moving the cabin and pulling on cables, they can > apparently track through about 20 degrees, unlike Arecibo, which is > fixed in a spherical shape. The actuators that deform the mirror into > a parabola are hydraulic and need only pull about a foot and a half or > so on each cable. Although it was late, we drove down for a quick > look at the telescope, since it wasn’t raining. It’s an unbelievably > impressive mechanical construct. > > > > 73, andy ae6y > > > __ > 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 > fst...@ieee.org __ 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 p.h...@
Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise
Folks, This was the thread I half recalled: excess noise on 10 m. See reply from Eric re S0239 washers. May not be applicable to present case (not sure which bands are involved) but worth a check. http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KPA1500-RFI-on-10-Meters-td7657067.html#a7657213 73, Peter. -Original Message- From: Dave Sent: Saturday, 9 May 2020 10:43 AM To: Peter Hall Cc: w5...@comcast.net; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise Mine had noise on 80 meters. Elecraft sent me a load resistor to install in the power supply across the 50 VDC terminals. Knocked the birdies down to the noise floor. I also foo d there is a connection from the minus terminal to the chassis that was loose. Serial number 423 and it has been working fine since. Dave wo2x Sent from my waxed string and tin cans. > On May 8, 2020, at 10:33 PM, Peter Hall wrote: > > I don't recall the details but have you read the posts by the Elecraft guys > some weeks ago related to excess noise and loose grounding nuts (on or near > the SO239 connectors if I recall correctly)? > > My KPA1500 creates a tiny amount of additional noise on 6 m when switched to > "operate" but nothing discernible elsewhere. > > 73, Peter. > > -Original Message- > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net > On Behalf Of w5...@comcast.net > Sent: Saturday, 9 May 2020 8:41 AM > To: rocke...@gmail.com; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise > > only one antenna hooked to it, and that’s a sommer XP808 log fed yagi. No > switches.! > > Ronnie W5SUM > > -Original Message- > From: rocke...@gmail.com > Sent: Friday, May 08, 2020 7:35 PM > To: w5...@comcast.net ; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise > > Need more details on what your antenna system is and especially what is > connected to antenna 1 and 2 on the amp. > Any antenna switches, etc. > > Dave wo2x > > > > -Original Message- > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net > On Behalf Of w5...@comcast.net > Sent: Friday, May 8, 2020 8:28 PM > To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise > > Recently I have noticed that I have a very high noise lever at my QTH, > which I have never had. Today as I was shutting down my station I > turned off the > KPA1500 first, and my noise dropped from S7 to S1 instantly. > > I turned the Amp back on and the noise came back. Have any of you ever > observed this? > > Thanks in advance > > Ronnie W5SUM > > __ > 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 > rocke...@gmail.com > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email > list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to > p.h...@curtin.edu.au > __ > 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 > rocke...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise
I don't recall the details but have you read the posts by the Elecraft guys some weeks ago related to excess noise and loose grounding nuts (on or near the SO239 connectors if I recall correctly)? My KPA1500 creates a tiny amount of additional noise on 6 m when switched to "operate" but nothing discernible elsewhere. 73, Peter. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of w5...@comcast.net Sent: Saturday, 9 May 2020 8:41 AM To: rocke...@gmail.com; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise only one antenna hooked to it, and that’s a sommer XP808 log fed yagi. No switches.! Ronnie W5SUM -Original Message- From: rocke...@gmail.com Sent: Friday, May 08, 2020 7:35 PM To: w5...@comcast.net ; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise Need more details on what your antenna system is and especially what is connected to antenna 1 and 2 on the amp. Any antenna switches, etc. Dave wo2x -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of w5...@comcast.net Sent: Friday, May 8, 2020 8:28 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] KPA1500 and noise Recently I have noticed that I have a very high noise lever at my QTH, which I have never had. Today as I was shutting down my station I turned off the KPA1500 first, and my noise dropped from S7 to S1 instantly. I turned the Amp back on and the noise came back. Have any of you ever observed this? Thanks in advance Ronnie W5SUM __ 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 rocke...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] K4 LF & MF, K4 EXREF?
Wayne One really cool optional setting would be a double-frequency output on LF/MF at ~ 0 dBm level. That would allow the K4 to drive directly some of the common push-pull class D power amp designs which require, for example, 950 kHz drive for a 475 kHz output. 73, Peter. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Wayne Burdick Sent: Saturday, 4 January 2020 12:54 AM To: gliderboy1...@yahoo.com Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K4 LF & MF, K4 EXREF? > On Jan 3, 2020, at 7:22 AM, eric norris via Elecraft > wrote: > > Will the K4 transmit at 136 or 472 kHz, Yes. > and if so at what power level and through which antenna port? Tentatively, up to ~5 dBm, using XVTR OUT only. > If so, at first ship or in the future? Probably first ship. > The K4 brochure shows an empty hole for XREF, will this be available at first > ship or in the future, and will it require an option board? Supplied. Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] K3--Too much ALC creates energy on opposite sideband?
Wes Kenwood have delivered a very credible IMD performance from the new TS-890S and, indeed, even the TS-590s (especially the SG) are considerably better than the Elecraft offerings. All are 12 V radios, of course. I use a TS-890S with a KPA1500 and, while the combination is poorer in IMD terms than my 50-yo Collins S-line, it's a great deal better than many contemporary offerings. I don't anticipate parting with the TS-890S any time soon but, all things being equal, regard a K4 with good pre-distortion implementation as a deal maker in the not too distant future. Indeed, I might have waited for a K4 this time around, barring the shenanigans surrounding the K4 forum discussion and announcement. Peter, VK6HP. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Wes Sent: Friday, 30 August 2019 1:10 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3--Too much ALC creates energy on opposite sideband? Conrad and I have corresponded about this in the past. He is absolutely correct in worrying about the IMD performance of the K4. I bought my K3S after being disappointed with the K3 TX IMD and thinking that the FETs would be better. How wrong I was. IMD was no improvement and reliability was awful. At 50 VDC, they no doubt would be better but as long as Elecraft clings to "12-volt" radios, I'm afraid this will persist. Wes N7WS On 8/29/2019 5:04 AM, Conrad PA5Y wrote: > I have measured the TX IMD performance of my and 2 other K3S transceivers. In > my opinion it is not possible to have anything other than mediocre TX IMD > performance from a K3S or a K3 at ANY power level. I am so disappointed with > this aspect of the K3S. The mass market and cheap IC-7300 is better, > especially on 6m. In all other respects I am very impressed with the K3S. > > > The transverter output on 10m when set to 0.5mW has incredibly good IMD > performance so the problem is with the 2 PA modules. I have contacted > Elecraft and so far they have not offered me a satisfactory solution. I think > that I am going to go to the inconvenience of using an external PA on 6m. > > > The K3S has excellent TX composite noise all ruined by poor TX IMD. I can > easily see 19th and 21st order IMD components on 6m in the 90dB dynamic range > of my E4406A spectrum analyser - this rather negates the advantage to my > neighbours when I'm on SSB. For CW and Digimodes then the K3S is superb. If I > was contemplating the purchase of a K4 I would be asking Elecraft about TX > IMD from the hopefully new and improved TX amplifier chain. > > > Not a happy message but it's the truth. Yes I have the latest FW, yes I have > tried to reduce the gain from the driver using the settings in the FW yes I > maintain the correct voltage on the PA, yes I have late (not the latest) > revisions of the driver and final PA. I am using the 2 tone facility so there > is no question of external or maladjusted audio non linearity. The fact is > that it is poor. I also know what I'm doing. > > > Poor show Elecraft! > > > 73 > > > Conrad PA5Y > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1RrdgZXSnhmLAY_lbN4qKiWPuu_d2_Rin4oYknooNe9PoZH6r2XpnYKMxQFa0OuEy522SMlmuiZC_aIU-nwBLAJEn1QIUUWJ3rZuVONLvqLg5pu-VTOYl7EJtMst-SRfASbXOOdisf9JXYSscQjIOhaxZutHpCYe9bZPD7EujJ0QVEOLmJWfwksv6NXV-LTVJvKKEo2smKZXuZoeZW51AKEY5RU6dtPOb8xuGhmXpOI2V8DSD23MZTkWhwSUW9xaC2AVLZnCU8Az3n5Xt_Je4ub_N7kKtDCPQ20ZGd6Cxn65g012dejR1eZOwSipcWq9cbf31q06hgDt07nsGw6mXPlsR8yb28ku8Q6dPWim-bpCNp_KVXVi-CdyACLh36jnpeit36YqAULGO4codVPIZReBGa7Wssx9_2ldAqb1cRcztxD4SH0OewY4iLH61V5IAVPC4z42iHc2d9pztOxawHpY8KwbM17Z-TtetiL_T668/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft Help: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1MNZxUEzTafvOANOXLoK_vJvodRC_LlCHQRTdRYGD7-6_4L92eD5UD-39n_HaXZZ1CApPLaKoApfn4GyixDVAsaNWGSrOr6T9t3iw0hworoMK2GxIPxBgfYR-ZZ6y3kYC5OCaXxxuDBIF2l6cZ41MxywuTfHOSAkwgl34jmlTbHi2j9jfPa_BdpzAYP3S2jI_xurncS4jTqpA3-G9p-cCZf9iwXx_wxcHSZD_3WXXVCkha8nwiFzX8cWorb92mnAV_p-PByPDWTNr9EjWhGl_J6gO3xGPUwMF-jnQvcTy5ExZ71v5alvt4ZeCFxHndULznDvk5y92Y3swuKfJGiREwGsVESRJg7YVY5-TwvLfTVwojZ3HUczDgBrv4733zgIIN1SixuHe1gYPaX-TrPcKf9O_Po28q4RdgI6U6Xp8Ezrd9SFLONsDDKq7j9pt1mGZuZNFaFyJPm-FmLOnh-0I-NRZgif44BaIY1nMKPZvUCY/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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 p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] KPA1500 Power Supply Fan Noise
Hello Eric There's no doubt that a KPA1500 physical installation needs some careful attention to the noise aspect. That said, I'm a bit surprised by your problem with the PSU fan. I can certainly hear mine but, overall, the noise is entirely dominated by the RF deck fans. I've located the PSU under my operating desk, which is made of a dense particleboard material. The RF deck sits alongside my TS-890S transceiver on the desk. I can hear the PSU fan if I put my head below desk level but, even then, I don't find the fan to be particularly high-pitched in its acoustic output. Could you possibly have a faulty fan (maybe excess nearing noise)? On the other hand, I do find the RF deck fans test my patience a bit, especially since the last round of major firmware updates which start the cooling at a lower heatsink temperature. That probably works well in a high-output environment, where it no doubt delays the onset of heat soaking. But when the amplifier "loafs" in a low power, low duty cycle environment as it does in some of my applications. it just starts the noise prematurely. It'd be great to see something like an "80m rag-chew" option for those times! 73, Peter (VK6HP). -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of eric norris via Elecraft Sent: Tuesday, 11 June 2019 7:57 AM To: li...@w2irt.net; li...@w2irt.net; Elecraft Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Power Supply Fan Noise More broadly, has there been any progress on reducing the piercing power supply fan noise on the KPA1500 when only using it as a tuner or an antenna switch? I complained about this a year ago, and I find it completely unacceptable. No set of noise-reducing headphones that I have tried works well enough to make the noise tolerable. I've tried moving the PS deck around with minimal improvement. This just doesn't seem to fit Elecraft's philosophy of a quiet operating environment. Why do these fans have to operate at full throttle when there is minimal current draw from the rf deck? Why do these fans create such a piercing high-pitched note? If there is no response from Elecraft, what have other ops done--short of moving the PS into an adjoining room--to mitigate the scream? Thanks, 73 Eric WD6DBM Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1tDsvUQJ_0zB23ghHb5KaAdzs0lJaKMogNen4iI_PDswSPolixJJ3iMrhUoFvfGgoxzbs0DGdGSSJL9x3VyZATgBP4zclJcBHotmk4r96__2YQRTeAi6FCpWxXILQqJ_IxPGZP8io4Yy2gzRdGerK7srzNw90BfE_ZOAFkDwLUzXowtU4dDgAziktXM2CaF_pmpCeXLxJMFjA6FB5k-74EYEqFaZkzaoXClH4rDm6FUv8b4ZNQGrysSjhXPwBuTRHw19PiQDvbA8aslrCqhIoTpUDEqhWyCBPw6pdw7_6qf-3cJoI6RgsgqLVHJhpZrhjT4EJ_rhWSPHF7dkhVbZQFcqVIrSZP2cIvpbhns4oqu5yxQUlH-vLCJf6b3seCrDPHKM12n7oEwMzs5agfcomTpSv2qGLxI-g2jcswmHrXHnp9W52FpbNKXl6CW2lRdQCpkMg0-jSAQ99VrIWXI1Pu0ICX96UOyhS7gYoOxWpTEE/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft Help: http://secure-web.cisco.com/12HNFcbTeFZTbPNpVwVrvnNNKUwoEGeZbNguWyUO1MGEuYV1WffC05TQWFNvX_wofLrLQM8T9KGmWEbr6APGXL7hEv9QfXImhYsMuKFrSQT-4GhmdWzvoxUCdcgGzaV4-7k-CnR1GodVheHO9M8D8MGZLxCZUL59s6-YsOFQleipckCk-1b-u4D0nu-Xnu9n9YDG5S9cf_LDmhDy5KEa3vCSYVij75lBjaXEmkq_EoUImkfEcvrX7MV4YFAqZ4h9oEzkpbzyB5k3pNRZsmffdEXeqVHAKGeDBtVdNKW05kMwvQI0HOtn6mkoaD_uttVjsnl_OVXFD7bzu12kZJRZlW-zxLtJpmLx_W9UURVGhB6S6WJWQWKIyA-NYqaXE6S9eFTfST_SP7R927FpbqaSlMcIhL2JOOsL98pRpeB-dE9gWP0BBZiB4yYLTnMq1-IYzrlMmZnf_-pnyFMX9DE-taVpjMaR4FWlvPnVuhT6vmFE/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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 p.h...@curtin.edu.au __ 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] Elecraft K4 and Accessibility
Rod, I doubt that the Elecraft Principals and Engineers are such delicate snowflakes that they are unable to deal with some frank feedback from any corner. And, in many ways, critical feedback inviting a review of basic design principles is at least as valuable as pages of Q&A about work-arounds and detail; it all has its place. Harsh criticism, respectfully delivered as Harry's was, is not trolling. I'm a happy KPA1500 owner but, as you recognize, not everyone warms to all products from a given manufacturer and, despite close examination of Elecraft transceiver offerings, I made alternative choices, most recently involving a TS-890S (which, by the way, also has the RIT/XIT in the right place!). I look forward to the K4 release and have no doubts it will be a great radio. I may yet vote in that direction but I found the way Elecraft handled the K4 announcement (controlled leak?) baffling and reminiscent of Apple and their fanboys. I recall a thread on the K4 being closed a couple of months ago, only for another sanctioned one to emerge and continue, followed by the dribble of actual news about the K4. It was all just odd, in my view. 73, Peter (VK6HP). -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Rod Hardman Sent: Saturday, 25 May 2019 8:17 AM To: hwhi...@maine.rr.com Cc: Elecraft Reflector ; k...@yahoogroups.com; elecraft...@groups.io Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft K4 and Accessibility Harry, you got they the first time. I respect your right to an opinion and right to vote with your dollars. You represent a market segment that Elecraft May or may not choose to address. It’s Wayne and Eric’s strategy to decide. I for one may represent a different (slightly) younger market segment and I have been drawn to the Elecraft UI and design philosophy. I create computer based products, although mostly software these days and I think Wayne and the development team are spot on. To me, the Elecraft menus just “feel right” compared to the Japanese approach. There’s lots of room for different market segments in this hobby. Everyone should vote with there dollars. Eric, Wayne and the whole team should be mindful of all feedback, but be respectful of their their choices (and others tastes). let’s not come on the Elecraft reflector to troll Elecraft design. It’s not cool to call someone’s kid ugly. I’m sure you were not intending to be hurtful, but I know too well engineers put their whole Hearts into such things and I’m always careful about that / rod, VA3ON On May 24, 2019, at 20:00, wrote: Wayne and interested others, Way back when, I bought a loaded K3. I believe the S/N was around 4K? It was back in the day when almost every DXpedition was using K3's so it was obviously the radio to own. (Around 2009?) It was at the top of the Sherwood ratings. Owner's bragged, incessantly, about its Sherwood rating. After a period of time I grew to really dislike that radio. The audio was just plain awful and the man/machine interface was the worst I have ever seen. I detest bar graphs. I suppose if you play at ham radio 8 hours a day, seven days a week, the interface is "normal", even usable. For those of us who might get on the air for an hour or two a week, the controls were a mystery. Tap this button to do this, hold the same button for three seconds to do that, the list goes on. NOTHING was intuitive. It did not help that it was an incredibly ugly, too light and unsubstantial, radio. It's looks may have been barely acceptable when first introduced but it aged badly, rapidly. Over a ten year period it's price has become a real problem. There were many, many questions on this reflector regarding the controls, the same questions about the same controls, over and over and over again. That should have been a very large hint that the controls should be massively improved in any new radio. I sold my K3 and moved on to the big Japanese three, ANAN, and Flex, over the years. All had many, fairly easy to understand, controls. All were far, far more usable than the K3. Both the ANAN and Flex service departments are as good as Elecraft's. Eventually I left the Elecraft reflector, and that is a whole other story. Last week the K4 was announced so I rejoined the reflector. It sounded like a really great radio. Sadly, I have concluded it will be a dud, mostly because it is designed with the same philosophy as the K3 was, a small, compact, easily transportable radio, "a hallmark of Elecraft transceivers", to quote you, Wayne. From all that I have read, the controls will be even more complex. Ham radio operators are an aging group. Some suffer from the "fat finger" syndrome, others have vision problems, to name just two. The last thing they need or want is a tiny radio with minimal controls, each of which serves two or three or four or five purposes. They favor a radio that has many single or dual purpose knobs
Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours
Doug It's much the same situation here: no Elecraft distributor, so I'm also appreciative of direct factory shipping. But for the safety of all concerned, a clear explanation in the manual of the mains wiring connections in even a couple of the major jurisdictions is essential. My comment re the 230V cable colour code was more directed to ourselves as "importers". Although I don't propose to change mine anytime soon, partly because I already have a lot of Collins gear running off a shack 120V system (including contemporary US cabling and connectors), I suspect that, strictly speaking, I should. 73, Peter. From: Doug Turnbull Sent: Monday, 20 May 2019 2:51 AM To: Peter Hall ; 'Ken Winterling' Cc: 'Elecraft Reflector' Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours Peter, I was okay because it was shipped directly from the factory.This ability to purchase direct is important to me.We do not have a dealer in EI and well the UK is leaving the EU. I just as soon purchase direct. I am sure the UK sellers include a UK power cable as do the continental retailiers. Elecraft does a pretty good job. Changing a plug is not problem. Thanks for your help though. 73 Doug EI2CN From: Peter Hall [mailto:p.h...@curtin.edu.au] Sent: 19 May 2019 01:21 To: turnbull; Ken Winterling Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours You're welcome, Doug. I'm glad you have the KPA1500 up and running. Your note, and my recollection of installing my own KPA1500, identify an important omission in the KPA1500 manual. Some other shortcomings of the manual (such as a decent working block diagram) are merely irritating but not including the proper mains connection for a $5000 device shipped internationally is a serious oversight. It's clear there is not a widespread appreciation of global power standards in this email group (for example) and, rather than having a future user stumble across incorrect or incomplete information, the Elecraft manual needs to have the definitive instructions up-front. I'm not sure how the EU regulations are constructed but I suspect that it's technically illegal to use the supplied cable in Australia. For Australian users a more immediate consideration on opening the box is that the US cable won't fit through a standard Australian mains plug cover. You can buy one Clipsal brand plug from a specialised electrical wholesaler which will work, or you can use a heavy duty plug and socket if available. 73, Peter. From: turnbull mailto:turnb...@net1.ie>> Sent: Saturday, 18 May 2019 10:14 PM To: Peter Hall mailto:p.h...@curtin.edu.au>>; Ken Winterling mailto:wa2...@gmail.com>> Cc: Elecraft Reflector mailto:elecraft@mailman.qth.net>> Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours TU Peter, the amp is up and running. 73 Doug EI2CN Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Original message From: Peter Hall mailto:p.h...@curtin.edu.au>> Date: 18/05/2019 11:55 (GMT+00:00) To: Ken Winterling mailto:wa2...@gmail.com>>, Doug Turnbull mailto:turnb...@net1.ie>> Cc: Elecraft Reflector mailto:elecraft@mailman.qth.net>> Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours Ken, Doug Ken is correct. Your amplifier comes with a US colour coded cable and, for your 230V supply, black is active, white is neutral and green is earth. I had some additional searching to find an Australian heavy duty plug that would fit the supplied mains cable and a standard 240V outlet, but was in the end successful. Regards, Peter, VK6HP -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net<mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net> mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net>> On Behalf Of Ken Winterling Sent: Saturday, 18 May 2019 6:24 PM To: Doug Turnbull mailto:turnb...@net1.ie>> Cc: Elecraft Reflector mailto:elecraft@mailman.qth.net>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours Doug,I don't have a KPA1500 but these are the standard power cord wire colors and functions: *Function USA Europe* Neutral WhiteBlue Hot Black Brown Ground Green Green/Yellow stripe If there is any doubt you can send an email to Elecraft; they are very responsive and helpful. Ken WA2LBI On Sat, May 18, 2019 at 5:36 AM Doug Turnbull mailto:turnb...@net1.ie>> wrote: > Dear OMs or YLs, > I have a new KPA1500 for use in Europe. Mine came from Elecraft > direct and thus has a US style mains plug and I assume US colour coded > AC power > lead.What are the USA colours for Live, Neutral and Ground? > > The manual does not supply a schematic and I do not want
Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours
You’re welcome, Doug. I’m glad you have the KPA1500 up and running. Your note, and my recollection of installing my own KPA1500, identify an important omission in the KPA1500 manual. Some other shortcomings of the manual (such as a decent working block diagram) are merely irritating but not including the proper mains connection for a $5000 device shipped internationally is a serious oversight. It’s clear there is not a widespread appreciation of global power standards in this email group (for example) and, rather than having a future user stumble across incorrect or incomplete information, the Elecraft manual needs to have the definitive instructions up-front. I’m not sure how the EU regulations are constructed but I suspect that it’s technically illegal to use the supplied cable in Australia. For Australian users a more immediate consideration on opening the box is that the US cable won’t fit through a standard Australian mains plug cover. You can buy one Clipsal brand plug from a specialised electrical wholesaler which will work, or you can use a heavy duty plug and socket if available. 73, Peter. From: turnbull Sent: Saturday, 18 May 2019 10:14 PM To: Peter Hall ; Ken Winterling Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours TU Peter, the amp is up and running. 73 Doug EI2CN Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Original message From: Peter Hall mailto:p.h...@curtin.edu.au>> Date: 18/05/2019 11:55 (GMT+00:00) To: Ken Winterling mailto:wa2...@gmail.com>>, Doug Turnbull mailto:turnb...@net1.ie>> Cc: Elecraft Reflector mailto:elecraft@mailman.qth.net>> Subject: RE: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours Ken, Doug Ken is correct. Your amplifier comes with a US colour coded cable and, for your 230V supply, black is active, white is neutral and green is earth. I had some additional searching to find an Australian heavy duty plug that would fit the supplied mains cable and a standard 240V outlet, but was in the end successful. Regards, Peter, VK6HP -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net<mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net> mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net>> On Behalf Of Ken Winterling Sent: Saturday, 18 May 2019 6:24 PM To: Doug Turnbull mailto:turnb...@net1.ie>> Cc: Elecraft Reflector mailto:elecraft@mailman.qth.net>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours Doug,I don't have a KPA1500 but these are the standard power cord wire colors and functions: *Function USA Europe* Neutral WhiteBlue Hot Black Brown Ground Green Green/Yellow stripe If there is any doubt you can send an email to Elecraft; they are very responsive and helpful. Ken WA2LBI On Sat, May 18, 2019 at 5:36 AM Doug Turnbull mailto:turnb...@net1.ie>> wrote: > Dear OMs or YLs, > I have a new KPA1500 for use in Europe. Mine came from Elecraft > direct and thus has a US style mains plug and I assume US colour coded > AC power > lead.What are the USA colours for Live, Neutral and Ground? > > The manual does not supply a schematic and I do not want to open the amp at > this time. I can look on line for this information but am asking as > regards the KPA1500 so as to be certain. > > Thank you. > > 73 Doug EI2CN > > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1I4shJco4vh4ezcpQ7u8qYbg_fwpXZwNSwRrT7Q7qc3vy38tTgCfNQHWYt3vJYM0utpGuV4XfizsKT6BCQ7g807_od2wmhX7gbKnXkcoC82HiQEz7P8G-8cBPCwH5ubP3qACjqeYS1XL9AY7q9EL37W-o5FEC5XmkvaRf77gqJ6S5qQ2ne5KI1Uhmi4Zar_NZXL6LTHKzlFPnlHhE98DYGjm-L8sQHsH3viiDCTF1Kh9BaATrV33TWAO33FCqWyJTk5ohsosDYAR0Om6wdAXZf9Fr-xtkfqar9_w6eMvYsHfPEnlcfNLs4zxyHmdMuaCljbmq7j3F6qEImhmQ1q085U7Wt46OlG66604m8MoPuQO6yOV-UIOTFs5ujox0_uj0Y_eXAWggl7BrKzqW0l7ZAJSdL3IyPsF20wXKnVqKlO7fhclqmUsZQIMFhFXrLKy-Rg0WFfRohlq2Hrs2lx8DMaBDekHGqtNnDXQKRbHU-Js/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft Help: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1ThHW4ZZaEtlw_eDBOjG67qpzDGxViRudeDSqb9Aud8rt-4DeWhqbp8_SfEhnJecmfNXBeIGRhf1kCg_WVT_VH6gNTAe6HGg81cU7z5qyDksGEM7nMk7K1DikKaOhuwT_nxJvL0UhD5J14es2rJNhYFRuXkaRy7rLJiIPvKURG5fhz2VBsIGayAlTjfVniLiL_-5Klp_SUkykmrPLyhfBrJc6MLk4NIAOwzWZ4LXfheiBE395VVlBEVxngidGHGUYBQ3ikKt9SY1uMqjcEAcbnyCuB-1O9Ja2SIrrLtXRw4w1sb2ScdE_2MbLDhhbLHcLSfkr-aUF6k3ja0N3jKIfg4unhaCX2awOrLJFn_3kdDzUVdiMPoe4Drz0WO_0ZgXjNSD1a0aDwR5wvNIKUKQmD4_0ZDstiqgf8SlJD-OoU5NPmPK0caNTskyHDV1oV9GhhWsdjyLnis9uVvV3w_Xgd1h0DaqXMWHHUxBCz7cj6Os/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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
Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours
Ken, Doug Ken is correct. Your amplifier comes with a US colour coded cable and, for your 230V supply, black is active, white is neutral and green is earth. I had some additional searching to find an Australian heavy duty plug that would fit the supplied mains cable and a standard 240V outlet, but was in the end successful. Regards, Peter, VK6HP -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Ken Winterling Sent: Saturday, 18 May 2019 6:24 PM To: Doug Turnbull Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 AC Mains wire colours Doug,I don't have a KPA1500 but these are the standard power cord wire colors and functions: *Function USA Europe* Neutral WhiteBlue Hot Black Brown Ground Green Green/Yellow stripe If there is any doubt you can send an email to Elecraft; they are very responsive and helpful. Ken WA2LBI On Sat, May 18, 2019 at 5:36 AM Doug Turnbull wrote: > Dear OMs or YLs, > I have a new KPA1500 for use in Europe. Mine came from Elecraft > direct and thus has a US style mains plug and I assume US colour coded > AC power > lead.What are the USA colours for Live, Neutral and Ground? > > The manual does not supply a schematic and I do not want to open the amp at > this time. I can look on line for this information but am asking as > regards the KPA1500 so as to be certain. > > Thank you. > > 73 Doug EI2CN > > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1I4shJco4vh4ezcpQ7u8qYbg_fwpXZwNSwRrT7Q7qc3vy38tTgCfNQHWYt3vJYM0utpGuV4XfizsKT6BCQ7g807_od2wmhX7gbKnXkcoC82HiQEz7P8G-8cBPCwH5ubP3qACjqeYS1XL9AY7q9EL37W-o5FEC5XmkvaRf77gqJ6S5qQ2ne5KI1Uhmi4Zar_NZXL6LTHKzlFPnlHhE98DYGjm-L8sQHsH3viiDCTF1Kh9BaATrV33TWAO33FCqWyJTk5ohsosDYAR0Om6wdAXZf9Fr-xtkfqar9_w6eMvYsHfPEnlcfNLs4zxyHmdMuaCljbmq7j3F6qEImhmQ1q085U7Wt46OlG66604m8MoPuQO6yOV-UIOTFs5ujox0_uj0Y_eXAWggl7BrKzqW0l7ZAJSdL3IyPsF20wXKnVqKlO7fhclqmUsZQIMFhFXrLKy-Rg0WFfRohlq2Hrs2lx8DMaBDekHGqtNnDXQKRbHU-Js/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft Help: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1ThHW4ZZaEtlw_eDBOjG67qpzDGxViRudeDSqb9Aud8rt-4DeWhqbp8_SfEhnJecmfNXBeIGRhf1kCg_WVT_VH6gNTAe6HGg81cU7z5qyDksGEM7nMk7K1DikKaOhuwT_nxJvL0UhD5J14es2rJNhYFRuXkaRy7rLJiIPvKURG5fhz2VBsIGayAlTjfVniLiL_-5Klp_SUkykmrPLyhfBrJc6MLk4NIAOwzWZ4LXfheiBE395VVlBEVxngidGHGUYBQ3ikKt9SY1uMqjcEAcbnyCuB-1O9Ja2SIrrLtXRw4w1sb2ScdE_2MbLDhhbLHcLSfkr-aUF6k3ja0N3jKIfg4unhaCX2awOrLJFn_3kdDzUVdiMPoe4Drz0WO_0ZgXjNSD1a0aDwR5wvNIKUKQmD4_0ZDstiqgf8SlJD-OoU5NPmPK0caNTskyHDV1oV9GhhWsdjyLnis9uVvV3w_Xgd1h0DaqXMWHHUxBCz7cj6Os/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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
Re: [Elecraft] new KPA1500 Manual
Bill, Having spent time, over many years, piecemeal updating Jeppersen and CASA (the national aviation regulatory authority) pilot documents, I regard it as wasted time I'll never get back. I hope that Elecraft does not go down this path but agree absolutely that, these days, good searchable PDFs make life much easier. One thing that is always useful is the update register (already often used) and text markers indicating changes from the previous edition (often vertical bars at affected paragraphs). On the subject of the KPA1500 manual, I have much appreciated the additions to the original document but would like to see the block diagram expanded to make it more useful in terms of appreciating the amplifier topology and the relation to connectors, etc. For example, the current very terse diagram does not show the pre-distortion coupler or its location and, if you hadn't had a spectrum analyser on the amplifier, you might not appreciate that it's not a direct output coupler. Of course, I'd like to see the whole schematic but I understand that it must be a tricky commercial IP balancing act with a new product. 73, Peter (VK6HP). -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of K8TE Sent: Tuesday, 9 April 2019 2:34 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] new KPA1500 Manual Right on! First, I have over two decades of experience with replacing printed pages in Air Force Technical Orders. What a PITA, but necessary. Today, those are distributed electronically and printed locally. Often, it's not possible to make a change that affects only one page since the change, often an addition, pushes information on to the next page. Thanks to Elecraft (not all manufactures do this), we can annotate the PDF versions with the latest firmware notes, ideas from this reflector, our just our own pointers. The PDF then becomes a current, searchable document of great value! As I point out in my ham radio presentations, it's 2019. We do a lot of things with computers now. Join the 21st century. The technology has certain advantages, especially if you back-up your data. 73, Bill, K8TE -- Sent from: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1ly5jG_z3c_ghFK4l_kVBFZrlCKkrMidJYBdwHxcCu3z2lgrmQrao4hnCsJiXrJi0GQVeY5htK-Vh4dQ16ZnFIQU-gBLNh6WwLOG-Pobdsz2l7JPiP-RZfnKzhbShygqpsgyBIbiKZoHEfIG4ZavEgPnhBX124hZDghSJKQTxsh71sJ6EZ8YRh8rxDE9XfyHRiHT1L5tI6UEq-mq43tNLo37ylKZzIGeqbUGidwyuqwiWd1g7He9T7MuWFpLGW7trTaVoSyd23L_IO-4AvaRTaCrYHBtYK-f3Dd90aPLnsyuR2wQXsnHXTnSeOEwNLKL_ye1IsOk-ulrUpbgI-5U5sJjsDXugiwFsOWxQkuI2QHT-wWKA5XNhToEUZtd0r8JnXq9o51L1kiPSFnmlgDqW3ENGmGd2FtGAxrU9UQjmeBWXpyBYm0pkl0WpvaFfGiPUzqDdhKwKLQYBg7WAcp2GLQ-XHIYS_hNpcS5M5NIHPEQ/http%3A%2F%2Felecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com%2F __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/15Xu-tgWxGQXmtH17CkIuIwXVaL8qUYmdndVBK0xxyOmLymTGEAlA0Geea95i-no3tp_bPZBNggdFpXObVRtLe8WhkU5sWwCdt_anhUUszZE-jSAupHNd-5ONp_8CsgKAsSi2lpvNlqKZTbBSEHth92SLHqbEnyh6LClTOebVR9BiExmqTX_3W6qp1c9jnYlzmvX8X97TQUoo7mRBhoJ--dww3ybGz4fahocE3zYjz-RKP8XOF2qLAib_1H88L6vSMdLB8-gYJllrGE2m2pkekZK4oEI1CKRCrIVw9a2XFUQFUWmql3AvsNRAFMpqS_-DDVQrU9IZY9Jye6sHW-KP_Vw0N7lP0gQ6MkZxNe_cQvM1fF5s9wANN2NHXVYLcoaJUTYK6jgU1FH0DCOKMcEaF5YlXYRJZmjZybu5xMReoHxVeF80cgdW2zypuzn2OnK60AasxTi8gdRTZCiYNYGGEzTpa7XYQH7_aJSrblWPS4g/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft Help: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1cujNAln9yePUe_hD0GtSsEil37DEFfqz1ns3hNMNkkhEfxMRkZE2DNaxChG6wEdLZJbhxrLIlkdsZYL9emd6163d3yNdvVZhkXk0Q2LsFq3s3Ma4FK6zKipikd13Nof-UTrDYfU53JFlk2t1UzU6qEl4s5j_XKABA96zXVw3ZMMbUTPdeB1FY4AQqoxdeZsYljmDI-wDQseFKrnJCw-Pk3qw4KyrAgHlmK5YTH3kAI-7dCa4N7-AL4CicYbxwz4B-xNZ4vp8l-vLCQVtyi3ZENhYM2evZFpFZtTr6mVq5gtXU0RTrRACavcnHgAVO46lv9gByBE8tmpigzySKG8DjNzZB5spxNq06Q4wviQAKexbSLh5XgvMZcfUcN7XP-o-V4EA_-IPjfVd_9FdUo2Ltjx_xULVvYFnHMPFbrulBZXGKroEol3MyIECvXreKRt1__8XKifMQRxo2VIYLHqND_vSMfJ95nQo5IHDbkoqVRA/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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
Re: [Elecraft] Will there be a K4
Eric, I apologise for missing that mail but am amazed you'd want to shut down the discussion. But it's your sandpit! Cheers, Peter Sent from my iPad > On 26 Mar 2019, at 10:32 pm, Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft > wrote: > > Folks - we closed this “Will there be a K4” thread yesterday. In the > interest of relieving reader email overload from the large number of email > postings, let's let it rest for now. > > 73, > Eric > Mooderator > elecraft.com > _..._ > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: > http://secure-web.cisco.com/1BgICGXhZ2J1lchhqw5w3WhL6SiX-F61sZTuPY8I3lxY4R1ycB6q38RZd7KR4cAe6utfA5PiTGQGKD0V9z9Tf-vA61-55k8AGp9cCNlFZYhc9Gx7q4skgg2FADqc8-7Mc9OCZke5DEcMbbMDKdPU_79N1S0tPERmNjOOWccSRBdfaDaji1fox06kkWC6MmNplOJCCPOvN6mnkXUpi7PQN4Umk_uUh0mH39_AwAYKPXKh_t6iNOvuqbJCjqnU9aLTHykn4lvHoeRMrzY51v77RMnkYJ74L0ti32PjAk6KR0FXNE0coOTMrCIPxkvJ_x0Nu_WNXfESTBDEMm-P_SC6Ief0anCsOUVYo8arkLW9z9PDdh1-J6eemyCrNYhQmVCO76a1vTuez7JX5arYiXuGaN_axKutKFUDbuz3OWEMKmK93iZ716FbFQYB3WxPM9EhObfrZCzk0Q8_-NCudOmpbdO81k3c0UqlRTOCyNggYaKI/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft > Help: > http://secure-web.cisco.com/1HehwCsrU-JMl5MHq8x4WgEgOkSS9w8s5WeuUoysKCjpKmDdll4agN5y6pdSWv4pTpF-Z-QxsFjKpmf9hZz36LI0ovgf4uoXMZgvc6ogehJPAkJUFGiBEZzFi2Xqn-aUU73LC9TTYRrf1-RJVS_A1sR5aq2iWV_QcukujUE8mynqIz38Q72nFZZKUQ5sJg5XRsjcG1GzATinT-Oai3N2nkSeiVYFp8nZzJHPYUaGB-fMX-YgZEsHNuSzx2L9VpaeQ1DtmcWiId2NlzZgyVIaQukbS_XtpfZXwu9IxvNCUAlPvB2CTf1N9N7_033AcPPaT-qKBvhLAU37r20AhY_n4K7BiQ2ES6CB9ukBc1G0hxUcRt3twMZgvgke4O45NFo7PVg9tOtyoMYXA-f9ZWxme-ODYS0L-w-JD16xfymELLDPnfwJ8nErChrAqNVjlyZC3uEk34zWM3gj07-ctZilnmY87ENS8vs6X2VwCWzj7AuY/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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
Re: [Elecraft] The case against touch screens
Folks, I'm not an Elecraft transceiver owner and, with the present alternative radio offerings and the current state of the art, I won't be buying a K3 of any flavour. However, I do own a KPA1500 which is nicely designed and built, and performs to expectations. Those expectations are modest in IMD terms when compared with good tube amplifiers but far from the worst of the solid state offerings. An Elecraft K4 with a well-implemented pre-distortion system would likely be a deal maker for me; I'd feel quite positive about finally having a contemporary system matching my classic Collins station in cleanliness. Personally, I'm no great fan of touch screens having used them a lot in general aviation and with other amateur radios, including the IC7300 mentioned by the previous poster. I just find the ergonomics fiddly and I'm OCD enough to always like my screens sparkling! It's a personal choice, of course. I also agree that a wideband baseband output (e.g I/Q) to ancillary devices and computers hosting a variety of open-source and propriety applications is a must-have. 73, Peter (VK6HP). Sent from my iPad > On 26 Mar 2019, at 8:09 pm, F5vjc wrote: > > If the latest touch screens are anything like my "Smartphone" you can keep > them! > Either they do not respond instantly or the processor is " Busy" doing > something else. This to me extremely irritating and frustrating. > How do the plethora of 7300 users find their screens work for them? > > 73 F5VJC > > On Tue, 26 Mar 2019 at 09:51, David Wilcox via Elecraft < > elecraft@mailman.qth.net> wrote: > >> Don, >> >> I have a blind ham friend and all his touch screens talk back to him when >> he touches something. he can use his iPad, iPod and iPhone faster than >> I can. It’s in the programming as it is a special program he has for >> each. Another miracle for our blind brothers. And, that is why he bought >> Icom gear. He said they were the only company to offer plug in “talker” >> boards for their xcvr. Still using his 756 Pro, 500 w Icom amp and LDG >> talking SWR meter. >> >> Dave K8WPE >> >> David J. Wilcox K8WPE’s iPad >> >>> On Mar 25, 2019, at 12:02 PM, Don Wilhelm >> wrote: >>> >>> Touch screens do not provide support for blind amateur operators. >> Elecraft has always said they will provide support for blind operators. >>> I just wonder how touchscreens fit into that commitment. >>> >>> 73, >>> Don W3FPR >>> On 3/25/2019 11:18 AM, Buddy Brannan wrote: While those are certainly advantages, there are several disadvantages. >> Number 1 on my personal hit parade: they aren’t tactile. You have to look >> at them to operate them. Which means, for you, another distraction. For me, >> it means extra support (think VoiceOver on iOS, Talkback on Android, >> VoiceView on the Amazon Fire things). So far, none of the ham radio >> manufacturers has implemented anything like that, and so touch screen >> interfaces on a lot of stuff are out of my reach, as it were. Of course, >> knobs and switches and buttons have the advantage of being able to be >> manipulated without having to see where they are. >>> __ >>> Elecraft mailing list >>> Home: >>> http://secure-web.cisco.com/1lsOPFNw4hWJPUKKouTXZG0fIhFEhgesW17UCBLYq28zk9dNJwHY7FxqiWWMsiwCMEuxQwM8p9zitEi2QIUC-_TU_WcCHXu-2yE9qNxr7TXbmA21YaP80vH4IsQtbrLYSAmXADgob9SuoTwVu8_-DvIKl3CiBzZpuH7RQLZ-xacGbhtfY-msjlq3v3k9frMqX0DkKgwQohe0bwBaec_JYhBMzLg00rxlWgMu_1P7ibn59LcCXqgynC1DNeNPaUMM5K70JaG8HkvMosHdu3TRZj3jubiijzrOcEUX1HNpgydGpQ6r1G6SlWeZsIAp6Ig_odnul9tWdkdOntzow-VtsjGC8XljT0d8KPl32uvOg_v_ujW4mwu_CdHpMx2DcA7KqdQTL6rMUQvKRPOwp9D7KyYQOpbIdGYRWnfiQqXht-zVYWA6bWYFi5lfAskd_PquGcahP4HuepBKzHTyO8mq0Bc9Gnlpwr9Z5ef49XCNw-CY/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman%2Flistinfo%2Felecraft >>> Help: >>> http://secure-web.cisco.com/13jW3HOA0DhBwW-00dZb75Fg3qPNiOW02FjPQifX2O24WBd1bnjd3KSCUekH_c2AL96UvndmZx6bvaJkDp2YRoBHioDo8NYpytXy-7RE3vKWEKPSvWdJW3KdWyDMQEmydmWnefzkpQOEZdsLCNU0c3HUK9qT31RpmNz7TemBqvbs7L0MYgRCuIbLE5PL8oF92gB2Bu2XKhPSDFyqEgPBoPe2Gj2tJ288LeUIac15fBa7ziy00ah05PjmHX3CGfTQF5JHSFElJLa8dXMSe50ei-dc_z28QX7nv_qapwsDpcGHQ0p-xlVEhCEZQyQABE4ixG4JfztGSB1XgwAyCQZ5kSngYjJg4-ou5q9UmlinociNC9lLlBR9eRnP0mFSC7oCIW3RPkTczrN_44CVIQAsFS9_XDwtLp8EJPMphjJ_xmwJt7oZNyzvD0yyEwIoui0eGZRGzpPFe3A0tWPzUXqVayTJu87M9fiW746-PdU0DwR4/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.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://secure-web.cisco.com/1lsOPFNw4hWJPUKKouTXZG0fIhFEhgesW17UCBLYq28zk9dNJwHY7FxqiWWMsiwCMEuxQwM8p9zitEi2QIUC-_TU_WcCHXu-2yE9qNxr7TXbmA21YaP80vH4IsQtbrLYSAmXADgob9SuoTwVu8_-DvIKl3CiBzZpuH7RQLZ-xacGbhtfY-msjlq3v3k9frMqX0DkKgwQohe0bwBaec_JYhBMzLg00rxlWgMu_1P7ibn59LcCXqgynC1DNeNPaUMM5K70JaG8HkvMosHdu3TRZj3jubiijz
Re: [Elecraft] SS Amp
Folks, This is an interesting discussion because it's clearly a comparison that potential buyers will do - as I did. In the end, I opted for the Elecraft KPA1500 because I wanted the cleanest solid state base station amplifier I could reasonably buy. I wasn't impressed with the SPE IMD results (at least at the time I was looking) but, that said, I was (and am) at a loss to actually find any published KPA1500 distortion specs. In fact, I find it a curious omission in the Elecraft brochure or manual. If I'm missing a reference somewhere, I'd appreciate a pointer to the specs. As Darrell mentioned, the more flexible switching of the SPE amplifiers is a definite plus and quite seductive. Since obtaining my KPA1500 I've been pleased with it and have done my own IMD measurements using the best exciter I can round up, namely my 50-year old Collins 32S-3. I'm generally pleased with my choice of amplifier but look forward to using it with a predistortion system (e.g. PureSignal) once that spreads beyond the ANAN camp. With any luck, I might even end up with a system that improves on the 50-year old 32S-3/30L-1 combination 😊 73, Peter (VK6HP) -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of AB2E Darrell Sent: Thursday, 17 January 2019 1:43 PM To: Dave ; Dave Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SS Amp Greetings all, Depends on your use, if you plan to travel and operate on an island etc, then hands down the SPE 1.5K or 1.3k. Looks like most on the list are more concerned for a home amp, and kpa1500 is obviously a great choice too. I just received my SPE 1.5K a couple weeks ago, and prior to that had the 1.3 for 3 yrs. For travel the spe means several less boxes to take...virtually self-contained with the 4 autoselect antenna ports, legal limit ATU, and 2 rig inputs, and autoselect power supply ( will detect 120v or 240v like a laptop does). I have an Acom 2000a also in service at home. All of these amps work great with my k3, like someone else mentioned dont forget to go to each band and lower power if you have low drive 1.3spe (the 1.5k takes regular drive (25 to 30w on mine). 73 Darrell AB2E From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net on behalf of Dave Sent: Wednesday, January 16, 2019 9:23:44 PM To: Dave Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] SS Amp - The KPA1500 has two LDMOS devices vs one in the SPE. - The 1500 has better IMD specs and better duty cycle than the SPE. - The KPA1500 has a separate power supply that can be located under the desk. - KPA1500 has Ethernet remote capability. Dave wo2x Sent from my iPad > On Jan 16, 2019, at 9:06 PM, Dave wrote: > > I’m trying to decide on a SS amp. I already have the KPA500 and love it but > the price for the KPA1500 is a bit above my budget. I am looking at the SPE > 1.5K-FA which is about $1000 less. I like the fact that it has inputs for two > radios and 4 antenna connections. Plus the power supply is built into the > same box. I know the response from this list will be pro Elecraft but any > constructive or informative comments would be appreciated. > > Tnx es 73, > Dave N8AG > > > Sent from Mail for Windows 10 > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: > http://secure-web.cisco.com/1miWBX8giC8WHhIDvoDidxjp3mLDPtdS-75HypjV_g > N3voWdJg70Z7OUXuMxkyzDIktnyY--DA0vZ8yBlIVjewrCy3leqckgfjAtJuj5sex_RtGU > 29xMiK4TNroa-HfByvYuAhTomP7Uy4FxYjgVdxQx7QF7dH9laIAcffvSNKxQ65Jt8gFKJn > m9huc_ySLdO41PQZOK-Aew1RTEouQPbFQuQWTfVkqpzMerMpSkAgRq6ABlVAmTSFYRB8Ye > c733tGQYk8-CMaYh9GZLiQX-JIkD284uIpnQX0Hi_pe-Mv8cB2LD4mPvbmqFOgseITFOTx > ZRrCpxx6KB2ViBb_Ji4Nx2GXIGhY69t8OEAWegLbkT73XUKSeO_l33vbZA8iVr7mGCUDIx > kt-uZxPKqDjy0c7WslOdTJ15BSmGc-Ekw_FhorLSCPc6FX6OIeAXk5BE26TYym13huKsV2 > 7WPgvb0yOUMFwY-XRSUKSqCyR7PQsc/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmailman% > 2Flistinfo%2Felecraft > Help: > http://secure-web.cisco.com/1WCe8BhCrY8_IQkPP4k2RmeMSKiAMxmg2zJaVRGfvW > K5Sy6z5w6nL3-kgge4wmXTJ8Fn0TuNz5KIZPmaIb2keS5axRlHbCw7DDcFaz_drxk2e2wS > TSUeXcB015kbHzk2K9VJKD0IfBc2HfXLgLD_d0eYqrcVsVqweCXhm0IqqvveQK8GE0VVC8 > 2XeE0jiecXnT0ZIFjYyzyp9tx-taDTPuxKTjybeJsvcFdIM2EZFsHFffF4Ncui99mxVHCY > aNvRBso_PaT32HB26-7shr0Ms1elMxGS_StHXHdhs65Wzp3jHF8SCbzyop-fFsKbM9pKOQ > QnkhauJR-CCw9IsEax6n7guYZAZlOX-AkQtPGsNZL3Mn0wbzwPDFWeE9aGOOF8NEQn932_ > zlCUfcJdu8zP_W7jrn40o7kwcomc2Z0R5b10h1Uygr-1XN-euCSwDtSVpXJq2b4bbF39Ou > v-Ng9ZIgbBf8OW84Z3xAcLWrYUp4bc/http%3A%2F%2Fmailman.qth.net%2Fmmfaq.ht > m > 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 > rocke...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1miWBX8giC8WHhIDvoDidxjp3mLDPtdS-75HypjV_gN3voWdJg70Z7OUXuMxkyzDIktnyY--DA0vZ8yBlIVjewrCy3leqckgfjAtJuj5sex_RtGU29xMiK4TNroa-HfBy
Re: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted
Don Thanks for the video and the noise comparison with your other amplifiers. I've had my KPA1500 (s/n 083) a few weeks and have enjoyed using it on the air, as well as subjecting it to IMD and other tests at a variety of power levels. Individual tolerance of acoustic noise varies and I put myself in the "sensitive" category. When I first set up the amplifier and power supply, I realised that I was going to have to do something more than simply stacking the units alongside my operating position: the PSU fan was just too annoying. Lacking any immediate "remote" options, I settled for putting the PSU on top of a small chest of drawers, located under my operating desk, which is made of thick, dense laminated particle board. The room is carpeted, and rather dead acoustically. I found that acoustically shielding the PSU helped enormously, while the chosen position still allows good airflow and access to the PSU. I did also experiment with some heavy felt drapes pinned under a section of the desk but, when the airflow to the PSU was good enough, there was no worthwhile improvement over just positioning the PSU under, and slightly towards the back, of the desk. As far as the RF deck fans go, I can live with the Level-1 speed but, in situations giving more than an occasional burst at Level 2, I'd be looking to locate the unit further from my desk. I do wear headphones from time to time, and that would certainly help with the acoustic noise issue, but it wouldn't be a long-term fix in my circumstances. The upside is that Australian power levels, and my operating modes, mean that the RF deck fans do not routinely get beyond Level 1. Even when doing the dummy load tests mentioned earlier, I paused the measurements if the fans hit Level 3. I'd add that the KPA1500 is likely one of a very small number of amplifiers of its class suitable for desk installation in my small shack. Notwithstanding my earlier comments about noise, I find it a nicely engineered product which meets my requirements for a high power, solid state gain block for use with a variety of exciters. My other amplifier is a Collins 30L-1 (4x811A), which now sits permanently attached to an S-line station. Fan noise was never a problem there, but 30L-1 cooling is less than generous, being helped by a single fan, the motor of which has aptly been described as a refugee from a record player. As an aside, I'm looking forward to the KPA1500 firmware upgrade, having also identified the occasional SWR bar graph errant excursion as most likely a firmware bug (aka algorithmic anomaly). 73 to all, Peter. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Don Butler Sent: Saturday, 2 June 2018 2:01 PM To: 'Richard Thorne' ; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] KPA1500 Fan Noise Video posted In response to N5ZC’s request I just made this short video to provide a listen to the KPA1500's fans ... at least as they sound in my shack. Follow this link to view: https://vimeo.com/273064144 In addition to the KPA1500 the video also includes footage of my Alpha 9500 and Icom PA1 … each running with their fans at maximum speed … to provide a simple rather crude comparison. What do I think? I think that fan speed 1 and fan speed 2 on the KPA1500 are probably comparable to the fans that are installed on the other amplifiers as far as sound and efficiency are concerned and likely provide a similar degree of cooling at those speeds. And, I think that fan speeds 3, 4, and 5 (which are indeed noisy) provide the KPA1500 with enhanced cooling capability that is simply not available on other amplifiers. Don, N5LZ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Richard Thorne Sent: Friday, June 01, 2018 5:55 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] KPA-1500 Fan Noise - YouTube ? This fan noise issue has me concerned to the point that I’m considering cancelling my order. While the amp won’t be on my operating desk, it will be on a rack next to my operating desk. Remoting the amp is not an option. Quite frankly I have no interest in remoting the amp. Is there anyone out there that has a KPA-1500 willing to post a YouTube video so we can hear the fan in action and judge the noise for ourselves? From the research I’ve done it appears that if you want a solid state amp, regardless of make, you need to be prepared for fan noise. Thanks Rich - N5ZC Sent from my iPhone __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://secure-web.cisco.com/1uRicXx-_Puaj7NVyHg6rvgshCBkUB1TffrwYj7wmeFFDVPDyas0VC_90RJ6K5pydwXLNpIRxu9BzTR_slYqeGjwV-CpOqKmyTxKfAIeVYJgIRqhNBVvcK_8ZbYLR0gNksxAqfE27Y8UcAoCYOY7tD3yIXuRxFM0ci0OioA0ZPL1_8-ZWE8324rzxZTmh3gHeh0DQdXwSZXA0xHb_j4dPwdlyVXZ2eeMQWVCRNMh6gnPg8y2TIx2k9prPl_qssYRS8aGoCm9j3bQgK0LmhUH6_BZpd88WN6ZxzeW1ilz-pPSSTGfz
