[Elecraft] Re CW omission
Hi It's with some degree of mirth that I read all the doomsday messages about the death of CW with them dropping the test over there in the States...We had the same thing happen here a year or two back, and regardless of what all the "nay-sayers" had to say about it, CW is alive and well here, and in fact is growing. I suspect that some guys are giving CW a go now that the pressure to take it as a requirement for a license has disappeared. As for the lack of a CW test not filtering out the (dare I say it) "rabble", that is not entirely true either. A bloke (or YL) probably isn't going to bother taking the exam to come on air if he/she isn't interested in the first place. If they are a bit "green" compared with yesterdays lot, it is up to us to Elmer them in the ways and means of being an Amateur. Encouragement is the word guys...not abuse...we all had to start somewhere. I doubt Elecraft sale will drop, as there definitely are people out there right now who suddenly have the opportunity to put their electronic skills to work building a HF set because a door has been opened for them. Maybe not on CW just yetbut who knows? 73..Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.22/590 - Release Date: 16/12/2006 5:39 p.m. ___ 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] SWR bridge diodes
OK Thanks Don and Tom, QRP below 5w is rarely used here on the K2. I pull the K1 out for those events. Anyway, I will get a bundle of 1N5711's off Elecraft next time I put an order in just to bring everything up to standard. I'm sure I will need more eventually with the memory I have, even with a disconnect/grounding switch installed unless I make it switch automatically when I turn the K2 off [G] 73 ..Ron ZL1TW At 07:53 a.m. 10/12/2006 -0500, you wrote: Ron, 2 reasons for the use of 1N5711 diodes rather than 1N4148 (or even 1N34A) - 1) the 1N5711s have been shown to produce a more consistent voltage over the frequency range than any of the others, and 2) the Shottky design has a low diode drop (the 1N34A does too) which will produce readings that are more correct at low powers (less than 2 watts). With the KPA100 installed, the low power factor may not be a large consideration for you, so the 1N4148s could stay, but if the greater frequency dependency produces a problem, swap back to the 1N5711s. Yes, keep those antennas shorted when not in use and when thunderstorms approach. 73, Don W3FPR > -Original Message- > Hi, > The other night I left my K2/100 and KAT100 still attached to the > antenna, and we must have had a thunderstorm or the like pass through. I > had been using the rig before I hit the sack, and everything was > fine, but > in the morning I got the dreaded "Hi Cur" warning if I tried to transmit > anything higher than 10w. > Subsequent testing proved the SWR bridge diodes in both the KPA100 > *and* the KAT100 had changed from being diodes to short-circuits. A trip > to the local (dead loss) Electronics store to get some more 1N1755 diodes > produced 1 diode ! ( typical) > What's a bloke going to do with the Christmas postal rush in full > swing and > Elecraft thousands of miles away? > In the end I replaced the 4 diodes with common old 1N4148's and > everything > appears to be working fine..which brings me to the question..why > are the 1N5711's used anyway? does their being Shottky diodes > make them any > better in this application? > -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/580 - Release Date: 12/8/2006 12:53 PM -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/581 - Release Date: 9/12/2006 3:41 p.m. No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/581 - Release Date: 9/12/2006 3:41 p.m. ___ 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] SWR bridge diodes
Hi, The other night I left my K2/100 and KAT100 still attached to the antenna, and we must have had a thunderstorm or the like pass through. I had been using the rig before I hit the sack, and everything was fine, but in the morning I got the dreaded "Hi Cur" warning if I tried to transmit anything higher than 10w. Subsequent testing proved the SWR bridge diodes in both the KPA100 *and* the KAT100 had changed from being diodes to short-circuits. A trip to the local (dead loss) Electronics store to get some more 1N1755 diodes produced 1 diode ! ( typical) What's a bloke going to do with the Christmas postal rush in full swing and Elecraft thousands of miles away? In the end I replaced the 4 diodes with common old 1N4148's and everything appears to be working fine..which brings me to the question..why are the 1N5711's used anyway? does their being Shottky diodes make them any better in this application? I did wonder if the slightly larger forward resistance of the 1N4148 might cause a slightly lower VRFDET, but that doesn't seem to be the case. To add to this saga..after finding the diodes being faulty, I had the end of the antenna draped over a certificate on the wall to keep it out of the way. A sudden rain storm went through accompanied by strong winds, and there was a spark jumping across the ends of BNC fitting on the end of the antenna as if it had been connected to a cars spark coil. A grounding switch is now being installed I have lost the odd SWR bridge diode in my 40 or so years as an Amateur, but this is the first time I have actually seen why (the antenna is a 80/40/20m set of 1/2 waves arranged as inverted "V's" up 13m in the center,and single coax fed.) 73.Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.432 / Virus Database: 268.15.15/581 - Release Date: 9/12/2006 3:41 p.m. ___ 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] Re: KPA100 & KAT100
Hi Brent, There isn't an issue with the K2/100 and the KAT100.they work just fine. In the case I quoted the KPA100 had been constructed wrongly by having the incorrect parts installed. The KAT100 just had the SWR bridge diodes blown out by the faulty amplifier. Even the best equipment can't be blamed when it is constructed wrong :-) When you build the KAT100 to go with your K2/100 you will wonder why you had any doubts. It is the best tuner I have ever owned and compliments the K2 very nicely. Mine is a Rev "A" ATU and has done 3 Field days as well as daily service since it was made back in 2002. 73 Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.430 / Virus Database: 268.14.8/539 - Release Date: 19/11/2006 7:10 p.m. ___ 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 :KPA100 upgrade and KAT100 problem
Great Scott..I am worse than I thoughtmake that C80 and C81 in the second sentence .. 73 again...Ron Hi John, Sorry...I had a "Senior moment" nominating C80 and C81..what I meant was C58 and C59 were wrong in the PA I worked on. I believe C89 and 81 *should* be 472's ...or are according to the latest release of the circuit I have .howeverthere could have been a change, and if the latest instructions from Elecraft dictate otherwise I would follow instructions. Yes I think it is wise to fix the amp first. It might be wise to check the HV you get at the junction of R11 and C77 . In the amp I mentioned, the voltage there was falling to under 80v when the KAT100 was plugged in, so I went back to the 39k resistor at R4 to bring the voltage back in range. Good luck..and sorry for my mistake 73.Ron ZL1TW At 03:59 p.m. 19/11/2006 -0500, you wrote: Ron - I suspect the same has happened to the KAT100. I did replace the diodes and it worked for a bit, but the problems quickly returned. Probably blew up the second set of diodes. Setting the KAT100 aside until the KPA100 behaves. In C80 and C81 I have caps marked "562". The revision D manual says these should be 472's, as do prior manuals. I then found the "KPA100 Cap Kit Upgrade" which replaced C80 and C81 with 562's (5,600 pF). Should I go back to 472's? You use .01 uF. Would that be better? How did you arrive at .01 uF for C80 and C81? All help greatly appreciated. 73 de K1ESE John Ron Willcocks wrote: Hi John, Your problem is a mirror image I had with an upgrade here a while ago. On 80 and 160m bands the tuner would NOT tune 160 and 80m bands ...even into a Dummy load. It would go through a TUNE cycle...report a 9.9:1 SWR and lock into transmit. ( and not on a "in band" frequency) I eventually found ( after being told to "think outside the square) that caps C80 and C81 in the KPA100 had been installed with .047uf caps instead of the 0.1uf they were supposed to have. Fixing that made the amplifier stable when attached to a resonant antenna, but I still had trouble with it not tuning and locking up in TUNE when attached to the KAT100 ( but once again only on 80 and 160m) .I subsequently found that the parasitic oscillation had destroyed the SWR bridge diodes in the KAT100...even though I had checked them earlier as being OK. Changing them and rechecking the balance of the bridge completely cured my problem. So.the main problem was in the input of the amplifier causing it to oscillate , and it in turn damaged the KAT100. The alteration to "REV" D in the amplifier made the problem of wrong componentry show itself ...so I would be checking the input area of your KPA100and double checking the bridge diodes in the KAT100 when you find it. There is actually nothing wrong with the modifications. I have altered 5 K2/100s here now and only been stung by that one with a prior component misplacement. Hope this helps? 73Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.430 / Virus Database: 268.14.8/539 - Release Date: 19/11/2006 7:10 p.m. No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.430 / Virus Database: 268.14.8/539 - Release Date: 19/11/2006 7:10 p.m. ___ 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 :KPA100 upgrade and KAT100 problem
Hi John, Sorry...I had a "Senior moment" nominating C80 and C81..what I meant was C58 and C59 were wrong in the PA I worked on. I believe C89 and 81 *should* be 472's ...or are according to the latest release of the circuit I have .howeverthere could have been a change, and if the latest instructions from Elecraft dictate otherwise I would follow instructions. Yes I think it is wise to fix the amp first. It might be wise to check the HV you get at the junction of R11 and C77 . In the amp I mentioned, the voltage there was falling to under 80v when the KAT100 was plugged in, so I went back to the 39k resistor at R4 to bring the voltage back in range. Good luck..and sorry for my mistake 73.Ron ZL1TW At 03:59 p.m. 19/11/2006 -0500, you wrote: Ron - I suspect the same has happened to the KAT100. I did replace the diodes and it worked for a bit, but the problems quickly returned. Probably blew up the second set of diodes. Setting the KAT100 aside until the KPA100 behaves. In C80 and C81 I have caps marked "562". The revision D manual says these should be 472's, as do prior manuals. I then found the "KPA100 Cap Kit Upgrade" which replaced C80 and C81 with 562's (5,600 pF). Should I go back to 472's? You use .01 uF. Would that be better? How did you arrive at .01 uF for C80 and C81? All help greatly appreciated. 73 de K1ESE John Ron Willcocks wrote: Hi John, Your problem is a mirror image I had with an upgrade here a while ago. On 80 and 160m bands the tuner would NOT tune 160 and 80m bands ...even into a Dummy load. It would go through a TUNE cycle...report a 9.9:1 SWR and lock into transmit. ( and not on a "in band" frequency) I eventually found ( after being told to "think outside the square) that caps C80 and C81 in the KPA100 had been installed with .047uf caps instead of the 0.1uf they were supposed to have. Fixing that made the amplifier stable when attached to a resonant antenna, but I still had trouble with it not tuning and locking up in TUNE when attached to the KAT100 ( but once again only on 80 and 160m) .I subsequently found that the parasitic oscillation had destroyed the SWR bridge diodes in the KAT100...even though I had checked them earlier as being OK. Changing them and rechecking the balance of the bridge completely cured my problem. So.the main problem was in the input of the amplifier causing it to oscillate , and it in turn damaged the KAT100. The alteration to "REV" D in the amplifier made the problem of wrong componentry show itself ...so I would be checking the input area of your KPA100and double checking the bridge diodes in the KAT100 when you find it. There is actually nothing wrong with the modifications. I have altered 5 K2/100s here now and only been stung by that one with a prior component misplacement. Hope this helps? 73Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.430 / Virus Database: 268.14.8/539 - Release Date: 19/11/2006 7:10 p.m. No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.430 / Virus Database: 268.14.8/539 - Release Date: 19/11/2006 7:10 p.m. ___ 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] RE :KPA100 upgrade and KAT100 problem
Hi John, Your problem is a mirror image I had with an upgrade here a while ago. On 80 and 160m bands the tuner would NOT tune 160 and 80m bands ...even into a Dummy load. It would go through a TUNE cycle...report a 9.9:1 SWR and lock into transmit. ( and not on a "in band" frequency) I eventually found ( after being told to "think outside the square) that caps C80 and C81 in the KPA100 had been installed with .047uf caps instead of the 0.1uf they were supposed to have. Fixing that made the amplifier stable when attached to a resonant antenna, but I still had trouble with it not tuning and locking up in TUNE when attached to the KAT100 ( but once again only on 80 and 160m) .I subsequently found that the parasitic oscillation had destroyed the SWR bridge diodes in the KAT100...even though I had checked them earlier as being OK. Changing them and rechecking the balance of the bridge completely cured my problem. So.the main problem was in the input of the amplifier causing it to oscillate , and it in turn damaged the KAT100. The alteration to "REV" D in the amplifier made the problem of wrong componentry show itself ...so I would be checking the input area of your KPA100and double checking the bridge diodes in the KAT100 when you find it. There is actually nothing wrong with the modifications. I have altered 5 K2/100s here now and only been stung by that one with a prior component misplacement. Hope this helps? 73Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.430 / Virus Database: 268.14.8/539 - Release Date: 19/11/2006 7:10 p.m. ___ 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] Changes for KPA100 & Toroid Guy
Hi, Bill K4DXU mentioned the changes to L16 and RFC1 in the latest revision of the KPA100 and he is correct about those two, but there are more changes and deletions, and anyone wanting to bring their earlier model KPA100 would probably do better to wait for the official information to be posted by Elecraft. ( IMHO) I'm sure they won't be long in supplying the information. I have made one of the new revision KPA100's and the alterations are pretty straight forward, but I guess it up to the "Firm" whether or when they release a "mini kit" to effect the changes for those wanting to make alterations? CheersRon ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.10/491 - Release Date: 23/10/2006 ___ 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] New KPA100 Rev.
Hi I have just finished making a K2/100 for a friend here, and I notice that the KPA100 is now up to REV D-1 ( Sept 28 2006) and has a quite few changes in it. Amongst them is the addition of two new toroidal RF chokes that are filled with #26 wire and because they are so full, the mounting holes on the (Rev B) board are a bit far apart to be able to pull them down tight. I was a bit alarmed at having a choke this size dangling upside down on flimsy wires ( when in the K2) that I have broken the Elecraft Golden Rule and used a small amount of non-acidic RTV under each choke to hold it in place. ( I guess the Warranty just expired after admitting that!) I wonder if any other recent constructors have had the same concern for the mechanical stability of these components? Among the changes I see the pesky RFC10 on the antenna socket has disappeared! Cheers.Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.4/480 - Release Date: 17/10/2006 ___ 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] Filter problems end of Stage 2.
Hi I am not going to admit to doing this, but if you ever reach the end of Stage 2 of assembly and the tests all come out fine. You do the CAL PLL after putting in the suggested BFO settings and then run it up on Spectrogram to check it, and HORRORSthe audio level is different between each filter, starting off low with the widest one and getting louder with as the filets are narrowed. The "S" meter shows the same level though, so the problem must be in the 2nd Xtal filter. Right? In fact it is...if you put D39 around the wrong way you get exactly these symptoms. [sigh] (and the builder was being *so* careful).. One to watch out for anyway, as D39 is the opposite way around to the similar type varactor you just put in. Cheers...Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.1/469 - Release Date: 9/10/2006 ___ 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] Adjusting the 4MHZ Master osc in the K2
Hi, I know this is an "Oldie" on the Reflector, but possibly worth bringing up again for the builders that have arrived since it was last aired. A while ago, I built K2# 5577 and it was my "second set" until I sold off my old K2 #2204 to a keen chap here. It didn't take me long to realize I had made a less than perfect job of setting the 4 MHZ Master Oscillator when I joined in a net and found my readout didn't match the net frequency. In the past, amongst other methods I had used to set the 4MHZ oscillator, was the one put out by Wayne N6KR, and I hadn't had much success with it, but decided that if anyone should know how to set the oscillator it should be the designer, so I gave it another try. Without going into great detail, the method involves adjusting C22 (after tuning in a SSB signal "perfectly"), until the frequency readings at TP1 and TP2 are the same. My first problem was tuning a SSB signal in "perfectly", but it was fairly easily got around by listening to WWV and altering the dial on the K2 until there was no difference in the audio while switching between USB and LSB. Switching to CW mode and using "SPOT" seemed to confirm I had the setting right. From there I followed Wayne's instructions and soon found where I had been going wrong in the pastI hadn't been following steps 6 & 7 in the instructions, and that made all the difference. I was able to get the frequency around 20hz off, which is far better than the 220hz discrepancy I started with. Where are the instructions to use Wayne's method??... On the Elecraft site go to "Builder's Resources" and then select " Frequency Calibrating the K2's 4Mhz Master Oscillator". Appologies to all those who find this "old hat", but I am sure there will be a few look-ups amongst the newer Elecraft fraternity... 73...Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.12.9/456 - Release Date: 25/09/2006 ___ 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] Lightning damage result/repair
Hi Yesterday a thunderstorm ran through here, and while I didn't think it was anywhere too close, the SWR bridge diodes in the KPA100 thought otherwise. A few hours after the storm, I fired the K2/100 up and it was receiving fine, but my troubles started when I tried to tune up. I don't recall all the events, but I do know I was quite surprised when the K2 started to tune and suddenly all the lights went out. A quick check of the fuse in the power cord showed the 20amp fuse had blown. Replacing the fuse bought the set to life again, but when I tried to transmit, the display showed unusual readings and it was obvious there was no power going up the spout. Immediate panic set in as I visualized sending to Elecraft for a pair of new finals. However, after taking the shield off the PA and poking around with the DMM, I quickly found the FWD diode in the SWR circuit open circuit and the REV diode gave a reading of 2.2ohms both ways round. The final out come resulted in a repair that cost me two 98c diodes and a couple of hours work, as Elecraft cunningly put the SWR bridge diodes in probably the most awkward place they could think of in the KPA100. Everything works fine again now, but I have to wonder what else may have been damaged and just waiting for the likes of Field Day to stop working? Another mystery to me is why didn't the diodes in the bridge circuit of the KAT100 go as well?? And what made the 20 amp fuse blow? (perhaps the power being ramped up too high as the diodes were in their death throws?) Cheers...Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.12.2/442 - Release Date: 8/09/2006 ___ 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] Norfolk Is. with K1
Hi, I am heading for Norfolk Island tomorrow ( 2/11/05) and will be there a week. I am taking the K1 and a range of coax fed dipoles I intend using as Inverted "V"s. I hope to be on especially Thurs 3rd and Friday 4th on 7.015+- starting around 0730z if anyone is interested in obtaining a QSL from this Island. I am *not* a gun operator, but will try my best if I get a pile-up. I hope to be on 80 and 30m as well, time permitting. I think the XYL has ideas of us being over there for a holiday break! MY callsign now will be VK9ANAnot VK9BRW as previously mentioned. ( the VK licensing outfit changed it to include the "N" designatorI think they still have it wrong, but can't argue at this stage) The call can be validated by looking in www.acma.gov.au . Any QSL's to ZL1TW either direct or via bureau Cheers...Ron ZL1TW ( Licensed as VK9ANA from 1/11/05 to 11/11/05) K1 #575 with all mods and ATU. -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.1.361 / Virus Database: 267.12.5/149 - Release Date: 10/25/2005 ___ 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] KAT1 tuning cycle.
Hi, I just built a KAT1 to put in the K1 I am taking to Norfolk Island soon, and while it appears to work just fine, and remembers the setting of my dipoles ( which have a low SWR in the CW portions) but I have to wonder at how long it takes to tune, if I string the likes of a random length of wire to it and try to get a match. (working it to a good earth peg) It "buzzes" away in what appears to be a timed run, and starts at 9.9SWR and works down, reaching the ultimate setting it will record and then carries on buzzing for a few more seconds. Those little relays in there seem to be working their butts off I only ask this , as the KAT2 makes a match on the same antenna with considerably less fuss. ( I am aware the KAT1 tuner does not have the same L/C combinations as the KAT2) Just thought I would try the "random wire" as I am taking 1/2w center fed antennas with me as well for 80/40/30, but not knowing the layout of where I am staying, a wire thrown over a tree might be handy. I'll have to say the match it ultimately obtains checks out pretty close on the KAT2 as well, but should there be all that activity when a tune is initiated? I guess if I used a 1/4 w instead of a random length, with slightly longer radials it might be better perhaps? Perhaps I worry too much. :-( Cheers..Ron ZL1TW ( will be VK9BRW from 1/11/05 to 10/11/05) No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.344 / Virus Database: 267.11.9/118 - Release Date: 10/3/2005 ___ 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] Norfolk Island visit ( VK9)
Hi, I will be popping over to Norfolk Island for just a week, arriving on 2nd Nov, and I will be taking the K1 and dipoles for 80 and 40m with me. Not sure of the setup where we are staying at this stage, but if it is unsuitable I will use the car's cigarette lighter for power and operate off a BBQ table, with the dipole slung up in a big Norfolk Pine. I imagine 40m will be my preferred band, and my most likely operating time will be from 0700utc to about 0900utc (Greyline time)which means anyone in the USA would have to be a late/early bird to look for me! If I get on 80m I will probably operate until at least 1100utc. It appears the morning greyline would occur about 1640utc to 1745utc ( yawn) and probably favour EU. If no antenna at the Motel I doubt I will be around for that one! I will be using 3.5200 and 7.015 +/- The antenna is a basic 40m 1/2 wave center fed with coax, and I have 2 more sections I can add on for making it a 1/2 wave on 80m. The anticipated configuration will be an "inverted V". The rig is K1 #575 with the KAT1 installed, and I have made a small set of "travelling" paddles to take. Anyway..I will be actively trying for a few contacts most nights. I imagine the XYL will interupt the schedule at least once, by wanting to go out to dinner :-( If you want to try for a sked, email me and I will do my best to be there for you. My callsign while there will be VK9BRW. Be warned...I am *not* an expert op...but looking forward to a good few contacts. CheersRon ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.344 / Virus Database: 267.11.6/111 - Release Date: 9/23/2005 ___ 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] Digital "scratching"
Hi, I am sure this has been mentioned before, but I have a K2 here that makes quite a loud "digital scratching" as the dial is rotated , only on the bottom of 40m and with the antenna off. It is bad enough that if I try the old trick of using the weak tone generated at 7mhz to check if my filters are set so the received tone doesn't alter between filters, it actually modulates the tone and makes it useless to use. In all other respects the set appears to be going fine, but perhaps someone can enlighten me as to whether I have a problem. As another view to your CW debate that is raging at present. Here in NZ we have no CW test now either, and it hasn't altered the useage of CW anyway at all. In fact some new tickets are requesting help learning it. Whether we loose any "clout" in holding onto our frequencies is now a point of conjecture. Most of our MF bands probably aren't of much commercial interest we can just hope the IARU can hold them out if they do get interested. Our main problem down here is fishing boats being equipped with Amateur gear, and Indonesean "pirates" using Amateur gear for everything from running a taxi company to talking to Aunt Matilda.. It's not about loosing CW privileges.it's all about loosing your Bands you should be worrying about. Use em or loose em doesn't matter what mode. if the new chaps are green on the protocol it's up to us to straighten them out ( nicely). Cheers...Ron ZL1TW -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.10.18/90 - Release Date: 9/5/2005 ___ 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 #4325 lives
K2 #4325 was tested on air this morning for the first time ever with good reports on CW and SSB. This set is owned by gentleman who is currently taking the Local Branch's Radio course and will be sitting his ticket early next Month. The kit is the first he has built since the days of Heatkit, and he has done a nice job. I was the "Chief Elmer" and had little to do with the process apart from a bit of adviceand the on air testing. With ZL now relaxing the Morse requirement the K2 should be on air regular next Month.I am sure the owner will have a ball with it. (Incidently he aims to do the Morse test as well even though it is no longer a requirement here) 73.Ron ZL1TW ___ 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/elecraftHelp: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 trivia
Just picked this one up fixing a K2 for a new constructor. Has anyone noticed that T7 is the only transformer in the K2 with the *Green* winding numbered 1 & 2 ?? In this case I think it had been installed while looking at the diagram for T5 just above it! Cheers..Ron ZL1TW ___ 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/elecraftHelp: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 receive volume
Hi I have read the thread about the lack of volume in the K2 that some chaps have reported, and personally I find it hard to imagine any problem in that area. During our last Field Day, we had a Tropical Cyclone running down us on the East, and a deep depression to the West, and the wind and rain was of Tropical proportions. To make matters worse our FD "shack" for 80m was a metal sided horse float, and the din from the rain was extreme. I used my K2 in that mix without headphones and had no problems at all. Incidently.I also notice reports on headphones to use with the K2 and the associated answers on what to use. While I have no argument with the headphones suggested, I used a bit of "bush engineering" to make a set of headphones that work exceedingly well with my K2 ( when required) I bought a set of nice headphones from a local junk sale for a few cents, and found one side was open cct. ( not surprising) I then cleared both inserts out and put in two 8ohm speakers out of old computers,and wired them in parallel. I certainly have no volume problems with those clamped on my lugs.. The niceties of frequency response and whatever makes for good listening went out the window the day I signed up to work in Telephone exchanges in the 50's !! Cheers..Ron ZL1TW ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft You must subscribe to post. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, Unsub etc): http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Re: TPA problem
Hi Bob, I had similar problems with the TPA setting changing , and it appeared to be caused mainly by my transmitting into a high SWR ( like changing bands and not tuning for it on a manual ATU) I have never had the problem again since I got the KAT100 ATU. However, I *did* reduce the problem before getting the KAT100, by grounding the shield of the KPA100 amp securely to the side panels, and filling in the gap that was in the shield around the SO239 socket and grounding the SO239 base solidly to the shield with a short bracket. These alterations are incorporated in later issue KPA100's and may not be an issue for you. Cheers...Ron ZL1TW K2/100 #2204 K1 #575 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft You must subscribe to post. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, Unsub etc): http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Setting of FWD cal pot R26 in the KPA100
Greetings Since making my KPA100 some time ago I always had the odd time when "HI CUR" would show, and I had tweaked the CAL CUR up to 3.74amps, but when I started getting the over current message again after doing the latest PA mods and Firmware upgrade I decided it was time to find out what was going on. I thought the best option was to call in the "Heavies" straight away, so I contacted Gary Surrency and received a prompt reply suggesting ( amongst other things) that R26, the FWD cal pot in the KPA100 might be set too low. Apparently if this is so, it allows more than 100 -110watts output from the KPA100, which will demand more drive from the K2 and push the current required up.. I am not exactly flush with good test gear now-days so I borrowed a watt meter, and I was somewhat surprised to see I was delivering the best part of 140w on 20m. I tried the R26/R27 adjustment according to the manual, and it just didn't seem to work out, so I contacted Gary again. This time he suggested the R26 pot should show about 41 - 43k ohms to ground, and the R27 pot should be set about 20% higher. Mine was set to 36k, so I adjusted it to 42K (as a starting point) and tried the output again. This time I was putting out around 110watts on 20m and drawing only 3.2amps. Tests on all the other bands showed decent output with reduced current readings, so I have left R26 where it is and put the set back together. Why I had the trouble setting R26 in the first place is a mystery. I have made another K2/100 for a friend since I built my KPA100 and had no problems with that alignment. Anyway, I record this saga here in case someone else has been caught out the same way? I imagine I made mine worse during the mods I did to the amp, by most likely bumping R26 a tad lower. I have Cal Cur set to 3.50amps now...Where would we be without Gary? Cheers...Ron ZL1TW ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft You must subscribe to post. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, Unsub etc): http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft page: http://www.elecraft.com
