[Elecraft] Writing memories to KX3 via K3 Freq. Mem. Editor?
I am having some trouble getting the K3 Frequency Memory Editor to write, and read, from the KX3. I installed a 2m module and so far that all seems to be working fine (have the latest firmware) and now I am looking to program the memories via the computer. The utility connects to the rig on port 3 and 9600bps but the smaller window that comes up when sending or receiving from the KX3 locks up when writing, or reading, channel 00. Any ideas? The firmware wrote just fine, once I got the drivers installed, so I am not sure what the hold up is here. OS is Windows 7 64 bit if it makes much difference. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Writing-memories-to-KX3-via-K3-Freq-Mem-Editor-tp7592537.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Writing memories to KX3 via K3 Freq. Mem. Editor?
That is a good thought. I switched to 38400 and no luck there either. Same thing. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Writing-memories-to-KX3-via-K3-Freq-Mem-Editor-tp7592537p7592539.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Writing memories to KX3 via K3 Freq. Mem. Editor?
Hmm. I may be on to something here. Channel 00 is 146.520 simplex and channels 1-7 are the NOAA weather channels (162.400-162.550 in 50kHz increments). It appears if I put frequencies in there that are all within the ham band it works. So how do I program in the non-ham band frequencies via computer? -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Writing-memories-to-KX3-via-K3-Freq-Mem-Editor-tp7592537p7592540.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] 2m Module
I am sure the Elecraft crew is working within the resources and limitations that they have. We will hear more as more information becomes available. I, too, have been waiting for the 2m module. That will make my backpacking radio set up complete. However, I'll stay patient in waiting. Elecraft makes some really good products and there is probably a good reason why there is so much of a delay. Last I heard was the amp was coming first, once that hit the market then the pace was to speed up on the 2m module. The amp has hit the market so we should be getting close on the 2m module. If I was to guess - the crew at Elecraft is probably taking a holiday break, a much deserved one :) Maybe we'll hear something after the first of the year. Steve, KC8QVO On a side note, I looked through the FAQ page on the 2m module and see that it looks like they have opened up the receive range to include the weather band, at however degraded the performance becomes. If that is true - THANKS ELECRAFT!!! That was my one wish when I first heard of the preliminary specs - it eliminates the need to take an HT in my backpack too. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/2m-Module-tp7582150p7582191.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Anyone using, or want to use, solar power with their KX3? Micro M+ Controller
A few years ago I got a Micro M+ charge controller for running my trail rigs off solar power. I combined it with some panel strips from Powerfilm and it has been a really great combo. With my KX3 and a 7Ah battery I can run indefinitely on backpacking and camping trips - for as much as I've used the rig in camp. The kits haven't been available for a while and I've been wanting to get a few more of these. So I took the schematic and parts from the QST article about it and pieced it together - with perf board and an enclosure (just no board mounting stuff, I'll have to figure it out later). Note that by changing one of the resistors you can change the output from charging 12v batteries to 9.6v = the same voltage of the internal AA's, if you so choose to use those in your KX3. with two sets you could run one set and charge the other. My parts list, and a bit more detail, can be viewed in my QRZ post. http://forums.qrz.com/showthread.php?418308-Micro-M-Solar-Charge-Controller-Parts-List-for-Rolling-Your-Own I hope this helps. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Anyone-using-or-want-to-use-solar-power-with-their-KX3-Micro-M-Controller-tp7582114.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Backpack Recommendations
If you are thinking of an enclosure/container/bag to transport the KX3 in a Pelican case is nice. Some of the camera bags are nice too - you can get them in either shoulder harness or backpack varieties. That having been said, if you are transporting the KX3 in a backpack along with other things... as in a backpacking/camping trip/day hike/vacation bag my method is to put my KX3 wrapped up in my spare clothes and all goes in a dry sack. I usually take a pair of socks and lay one over top and bottom with the heel of the sock on the side, then another sock laid over 3 sides with the heel laid over the short side over top the heel of the other sock. It encloses the KX3 on 5 sides. That slides in to my dry sack and I jam the rest of my clothes around the sides and top of the bag. When I'm done I wrap the lid a few times and secure the buckle. I bet the whole contraption will float. I haven't tried it yet, though. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Backpack-Recommendations-tp7568384p7571976.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Any news on a 2m module?
I haven't been over here for a while and see one of my old threads a page back. Between then and now there aren't any threads with much talk of the 2m module. Any news there? It looks like the 100w module is in testing as the availability looks to be Q1-Q2. Would I be on-target thinking the 2m module is after the amp? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Any-news-on-a-2m-module-tp7571977.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Portable Kit
That looks pretty good. Can you get a picture of everything outside of the case? What computer and solar panel/charger are you using? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Portable-Kit-tp7571978p7571984.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] 160 80m
I would be curious what the signal to noise ratio and readability is of the signals, forget what the meter tells you. Does the meter show that a signal goes to 7 S-units? Take the meter out of the equation and listen to the signals. Try to find a signal that is barely readable on one rig or the other and see how they compare. I have not done the above experiment with my KX3 yet but I had a buddy's KX1 here a while back and I did that very experiment. Not only did I find that I could hear better on the KX1, I found that signals that the KX1 could hear my TS-2000 was no where close to hearing. My thinking is that the noise floor was that much lower on the KX1 and it had better selectivity than my TS-2000 does (quad-conversion vs. essentially direct conversion). Again, take the meter out of the equation and go off the readability of the signals. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/160-80m-tp7565461p7565501.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 in the Appalachian Mountains
I took my KX3 with me this weekend in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. [IMG]http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Backpacking%20Stuff/IMG_0478.jpg[/IMG] http://s118.beta.photobucket.com/user/KC8QVO/media/Backpacking%20Stuff/IMG_0478.jpg.html http://s118.beta.photobucket.com/user/KC8QVO/media/Backpacking%20Stuff/IMG_0478.jpg.html The picture is catching the sun rise at the Clingmans Dome parking area just before we hiked to the observation tower to start our trek along the Clingmans Dome portion of the Appalachian Trail (a bit over 3 miles). Along with me was a Yaesu hand mic, Sony earbud headphones, a jumper dipole (40-6m), and a solar panel to keep the NiMh AA batteries up. The whole radio set up was right about 5lbs. This is a world of difference from my FT-857D (about 15lbs trail weight without the solar panel). There was a contest going on this weekend and the CW portion of 40 meters was clogged with SSB so I wasn't able to make any contacts. The next morning I didn't have a whole lot of time to get the radio going. We ate breakfast and broke camp. We started out on top of Clingmans Dome and hiked down Sugarland Mountain. We were going to hike back up to Clingmans over the next two days, but I hurt myself and we were only 3000 feet in to a 4000 foot decent (then still had to make it all back up) so we called it quits and hiked back out to the road and got a ride. We dropped 3000ft in about 12 miles (a lot of it was up and down, not all down) the first day and 2 miles down another 1000ft (some up and down too) on the second day. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-in-the-Appalachian-Mountains-tp7564740.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] Batteries - rechargeable AA's
Thanks for the info on the batteries. I went through some of the ones I have and the last batch I got are Sanyos (ordered online) and they say Japan on them. I may just charge these up and see how they work, I think they are around 2 years old (I used them in my camera and HT before). On a side note, Instead of making an external battery case... I was thinking of using the ones inside the rig. Has anyone tapped in to the wires for these and run an external plug for a charger? Is there anything I have to be careful with? I have a Micro M+ solar charge controller that I use with my SLA and was thinking of running a wire from the batter cases, through the 2m antenna port (plug right now), and put a Power Pole on the end. The controller has diodes in it so the current only goes one way. Another thought is my panel is made out of some Powerfilm panels (10 5omA strips). Last time I was out on the trials I strapped the panel to my pack. It wasn't in direct sunlight, but it was working while I was hiking. Now, how about one of those gyroscope mounts that tracks the sun? That might make my solar charging more efficient on the go HI. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Batteries-rechargeable-AA-s-tp7564426p7564450.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] Batteries - rechargeable AA's
Well I put my AA batteries inside and I ran my wire out the 2m antenna port hole. We'll see how it works. I have the batteries cycling right now - 3 cycles so tomorrow they should be good. The next step - seeing how well they hold up. This might have to wait for the trail unfortunately. I am real short on time between work and getting ready for my trip when I get home. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Batteries-rechargeable-AA-s-tp7564426p7564494.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [KX3] Batteries - rechargeable AA's
I have a 3 day backpacking trip coming up next weekend and will be taking my KX3 along with my solar panel/charge controller. In the past I have used a 7Ah SLA with the rig (works pretty well) but it is heavy. I want to switch out to 8 AA's this trip to see how it works out. What recommendations on NiMh AA cells do you all have that I can source locally? I have bought some batteries that have been decent and some that are terrible over the years, the best ones I found were at Radio Shack. What others have you had good luck with? I'd rather stay away from Walmart and other convenience stores. How about Batteries Plus? I haven't ever bought batteries from them before (cell type, my SLA came from there). My trip takes me along the Appalachian Trail and around Sugarland Mountain in TN/NC. I'll be sure to get some pictures. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Batteries-rechargeable-AA-s-tp7564426.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Balun
I have never used a BNC-binding post adapter with a balanced fed antenna, always 1:1 baluns. A BNC-binding post adapter is essentially taking the wires of your balanced line and putting a BNC plug on there. You have no transmission line transformer to convert between the balanced antenna and the unbalanced output of your rig. Impedance matching is another story. I believe it is irrelevant what the impedance is of your antenna and what nominal impedance transmission line you use (300 ohm TV/ribbon wire or 450 ohm ladder line) in the case of a doublet, or similarly non-resonant antenna, because, well, its non-resonant. All the impedance matching is in the tuner. The magic of the balanced transmission line and balanced (albeit non-resonant) antenna is you don't get quite the attenuation that you would with coax, an unbalanced transmission line. The one conversion I believe necessary in a balanced antenna configuration is converting between the unbalanced output of the rig to the balanced transmission line, without an impedance transformation. The reason for the above is that tuners match higher impedances better than they do lower impedances. So, for example, if you start with a 200 ohm load and use a 4:1 balun you are left with 50 ohms. This is a great match. If you start with 1000 ohms and use a 4:1 balun you are left with 250 ohms. This is easy for a tuner to match. Yet, if you start with a 50 ohm load and use a 4:1 balun you are left with 12.5 ohms. Now, lets go a bit further. If you have a 25 ohm load and use a 4:1 balun you are left with 6.25 ohms. Yea, your tuner may tune it but it will have a hard time and you will risk burning it up. The lower impedances are always harder to match. In this instance, if you used a 1:1 balun you would see a range of 1000 to 25 ohms which your tuner should handle OK. If you have the option of a 4:1 balun then you have the high range covered, but if you have one balun its better a 1:1 than a 4:1. I will use a BNC-binding post adapter with a random wire, because it is an unbalanced antenna. Nothing more. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Balun-tp7561948p7561974.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - Balun
I have had some parts around for a while now that I intended to build a balun out of. I finally got around to working on one over the past week or so (I started last Sunday night and did all the rest of it this evening HI). My idea was to make a 1:1 balun that fit right on the rig for using the internal tuner with a doublet, or any other balaned line fed antenna. Below are links to pictures of what I came up with. http://s118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/QRP%20Projects%20and%20Stuff/?action=viewcurrent=IMG_9333.jpg http://s118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/QRP%20Projects%20and%20Stuff/?action=viewcurrent=IMG_9333.jpg http://s118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/QRP%20Projects%20and%20Stuff/?action=viewcurrent=IMG_9334.jpg http://s118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/QRP%20Projects%20and%20Stuff/?action=viewcurrent=IMG_9334.jpg I used parallel runs of about 15-17 of 18 gauge magnet wire, two stacked FT-82-43 cores (Amidon), 3/4 stainless screws, two nuts, two flat washers, two lock washers, two wing nuts, about 1 of 18g stranded speaker wire (lead-in to the BNC connector), BNC connector for RG-58 coax, two small ring terminals minus the plastic sleeve, and a small enclosure box from Mouser. The BNC connector is bolted to the enclosure. It is a crimp style. I soldered the center pin then used the rear nut/bolt part passed through the wall of the enclosure as the mount for the plug. It is a pretty slick idea and quite rigid. There are 10 wraps of the magnet wire around the cores. Wrapping the stacked cores was a chore. I did not use anything to bond the cores together first (no tape or anything, just the wire). Once I had about 3-4 wraps on there it stiffened up but it was a trick. One addition I may make to the balun is a piece of plastic between the turns and the ring terminal crimps along the sides. I would imagine having the terminals that close (right against) the windings is not a good idea. I have another idea for a balun that is identically designed with a chassis mount BNC connector (single hole, not the 2 or 4 hole flanges) for use as a dipole feed point. I have a T80-2 Amidon core wound up already, again 10 windings of the 18g magnet wire. This fit too tight inside the small square enclosure but I have some that are rectangular and will have about twice the vertical space. This will let me space out the ring terminals at the top as well as have plenty of space for wiring the bulkhead BNC connector on the bottom. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Balun-tp7561948.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KXpd3 paddles
I have noticed the same thing. That is part of the design, though, being on the front of the rig. Raising the rig up is probably your best option. If you raise up the whole rig you will maintain the operating angle. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KXpd3-paddles-tp7561219p7561352.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Install of KX3 in Truck
I am curious as to what Hi-Q antenna you are installing. Those are real nice. I have a Tarheel model 200 and now a 400 (currently installed on my '11 F350, 6.7L). I was tempted to get a Hi-Q but went with the Tarheel as I've had good luck with them and they are less $$ HI. In any event, my understanding of the Turbo Tuner is it is RF sensing. Download the universal manual, it describes how it works in there. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Install-of-KX3-in-Truck-tp7561193p7561319.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX-3 - Thank you Elecraft for dropping over 10lbs off my pack weight
I use earbud style headphones made by Sony with some soft rubber cup things. Normally I would not use them, but I wanted as compact of a package and these work for that. I don't know what the model is, they were around $30-40 and have a volume control on the wire. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX-3-Thank-you-Elecraft-for-dropping-over-10lbs-off-my-pack-weight-tp7559790p7561179.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 on the trail
I figured I would share a couple pictures from my backpacking trip over the weekend. http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Backpacking%20Stuff/IMG_0537.jpg http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Backpacking%20Stuff/IMG_0537.jpg The first one is the KX3 running while I'm cooking dinner. I had it on 40 meters with my jumper dipole. Linguini and Clam Sauce for dinner - onions and garlic simmered in olive oil, clams are about to go in. The pot on the right with the aluminum foil has our bowtie noodles ready to go. The trick is take the noodles off the burner about half way done (still crunchy). Then by the time the goodies are cooked in the pan the noodles finish up cooking in the hot water. Strain, add the good stuff, put it on your plate, and dump fresh ground parmisian cheese on it. One word of caution - never cook this in a crowded camp site. You'll have everyone invading camp wondering what the heck is for dinner! HI. Here is my 6 watt solar panel on my pack. Putting it under the straps hold it in place. The top was secured to the hook hanger loop on the top/inside of the pack (what you use to hang the pack on a hook) with a piece of string. This was earlier in the day Saturday. http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Backpacking%20Stuff/IMG_0520.jpg http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Backpacking%20Stuff/IMG_0520.jpg This trip didn't allow a whole lot of radio time, no contacts this trip. I called CQ on 40m CW for a while before I went to sleep, but I was exhausted and the next morning went too fast. We broke camp, ate breakfast, and hit the trail so the guy with me could get to work on time. The important thing is we made the trip, the rig made it along, and I had everything working just fine! It was a good test run. Now for lighter batteries... HI Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-on-the-trail-tp7560071.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Microphones - Yaesu MH-31
I got a buddy of mine to get on 6m this evening to try out the mic on SSB. He said I sounded just fine. I did not adjust any settings, I had it on full mic gain and compression the whole time. I was able to get 10-12 watts out (off the meter on the rig, didn't hook it to an external meter/monitor) but still no ALC deflection. Oh well. As long as I can be heard and don't sound distorted I guess I am in good shape. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Microphones-Yaesu-MH-31-tp7559727p7559910.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX-3 - Thank you Elecraft for dropping over 10lbs off my pack weight
The reason for the FT-857D is it is what I had. By the way, the current draw on receive is closer to 1/2 an amp, 500mA, not 1 amp. My 857 has been over hundreds of miles in the backpack through the Appalachians, some of KY, and southern Ohio. A more typical trip for us is 3 days in the Appalachians and around 16-22 miles. The solar panel is a few of Powerfilm's 150mA panels taped together. They are like solar bumper stickers. Here is a picture from when I was in Canada back in June: http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Canada%202012/IMG_9209.jpg http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Canada%202012/IMG_9209.jpg I used solder wick to join the panels in parallel - it will take flexing to allow the panel to fold up - a flat pack 2 sections wide. The solar panel is in the bottom left of the picture. The antenna is a Buddistick with a paddle as a support. I wasn't backpacking here, just camped for 4 days. Here is a better picture of the hammock: http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Canada%202012/IMG_9217.jpg http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o117/KC8QVO/Canada%202012/IMG_9217.jpg It is a Warbonnet Blackbird double layer with a Big Mamajamba tarp and door kit. Its been through a tropical storm (or, what was left of it, Lee last Fall in the Smokies). Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX-3-Thank-you-Elecraft-for-dropping-over-10lbs-off-my-pack-weight-tp7559790p7559806.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX-3 - Thank you Elecraft for dropping over 10lbs off my pack weight
Keith Heimbold wrote I am looking forward to putting together a similar station. Where did you purchase the solar panels? Keith, The solar panels came from Powerfilm directly. I picked them up at Dayton 2 years ago, 25 sections/panels per pack and I got 2 packs. If I put them all together it would be about 30 watts. I don't have them all put together, though, just the sections I've been using. Here is the website: http://www.powerfilmsolar.com/oem-components.php http://www.powerfilmsolar.com/oem-components.php They are the MTP15-75's. I thought they were 150mA each, but they're only 50mA. There is a 150mA version though. That might offer more wattage per ounce. ny4g wrote I am not sure why nobody mentioned the KX1. It has 4 watts output, 4 bands, weighs next to nothing, 55 mA on receive, and with a 4500mA SLA (1 lb) or the equivalent LiFePo which is half the weight and Par Ef-40-20-10 and a spool of wire for 80m the entire group is perhaps 2 lbs or so - now that is light (no mic, no external key - just the KXPD1. The only thing lighter will be a XCVR single bander in an Altoids tin. Ariel Ariel, The KX1 is a great option too. I had the pleasure of operating one for a weekend. I did not get to take it on a trek, just at home. I borrowed it for a presentation on Ham radio I did at OSU. At the time I had not made the migration to Elecraft myself. I was highly considering a KX1 because of its size and weight for the trail. However, I took in to account how I use my radios and where I use them the most. The KX1 would have been a trail-only rig. I had been wanting a K2 so I weighed the options and the K2 won. Now I am pretty glad I held off on the KX1 now that the KX3 came along. I did miss the solder melting, but it was also nice to power up and do something with the rig the same day I opened the box. That having been said, the KX3 is my ideal backpacking rig - and even beyond that. Elecraft packed so much in to this little rig that it is hard to call it a compromise. I don't mean this to be negative in any way, but I would call the K1 and KX1 compromise rigs for the reason that they aren't full-featured rigs (select bands and CW only, vs. all bands all modes). When you look at what the KX3 has to offer, in as small and light of a package that it is, you really have to look twice to realize that, no you aren't dreaming, it really does THAT too. To each their own, but I think I've come across the best thing since sliced bread. My backpacking buddies can even join in the fun - it does SSB so I don't have to throw the headphones on and tap out CW in confinement. The next time I get flown around for work I can throw this in my luggage, not take up too much space or weight, and not feel like I left anything behind. Same goes for weekend trips to visit family and friends. It's small and light, without missing a thing. Once the 2m module comes out I can even leave an HT behind. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX-3-Thank-you-Elecraft-for-dropping-over-10lbs-off-my-pack-weight-tp7559790p7559848.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Microphones - Yaesu MH-31
Don Wilhelm-4 wrote Pin 4 goes to the tip Pin 5 goes to the shell Pin 3 goes to Ring 1 Pin 2 goes to Ring 2 Don, Your numbering was backwards from what I used, but I translated the numbers from the other direction (made 8 = 1, 1 = 8, and the others in between to match) and got the same pin designations and wire colors. However, I took (your numbers) pin 2 and pin 5 and grounded them to the shell together (pin 2 shows as mic ground in the schematics so I figured I'd ground it to the regular ground also). After looking over your numbers I moved the regular ground (your pin 2) to ring 2. This gave me the same results as before. If I crank the power up I can get some deflection in the power meter, but I can't get the ALC meter to budge on max mic gain and max compression. I just tested the output with a pair of headphones on. I took the compression off (0) and as I increased it the audio volume from the monitor circuit got louder. Just out of curiosity - what are some others using for microphones and what settings are you finding work for those microphones? My experience with other rigs is that if the mic gain is too high the audio distorts, likewise if the compression is too high it distorts. Here I have both gain and compression max'ed out and seemingly not getting enough. That doesn't make much sense to me, but I know the KX3 is a different rig. Is that perhaps a change that can be made in software? Or am I at the limits of the hardware? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Microphones-Yaesu-MH-31-tp7559727p7559858.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX-3 - Thank you Elecraft for dropping over 10lbs off my pack weight
I am loading up for a 10 mile backpacking trip this weekend and was going through some weights this evening, along with cleaning my Simmerlite stove and digging up some of my other gear. When I have gone on trips in the past I have taken my FT-857D. My favorite antenna is a Jumper dipole (sectional - has spade connectors between each consecutively lower frequency band segment 6 to 40 meters) and that is what I will continue to use, though I may try some other ideas as time goes on. My set up before was right about 15lbs. This included the FT-857D, battery, mic, key, antenna, and support rope. My total station weight for the KX3 is just 3.7lbs! This includes the following: Jumper dipole and 50' of 550 chord = 11.4oz KX3 with KXPD3 = 28.4oz Power wire = 1.1oz Mic/cable = 5.4oz Headphones = .4oz 8AA batteries = 7.8oz 6w solar panel = 5.3oz Total oz is 59.8, or 3.7375lbs. That is pretty cool. One caveat is the internal charger is not installed in the rig yet, so it will go up a tad in weight when I get that. I am also thinking of using my AA's externally with 2x 4 battery cases. This way I can charge them easier off the solar panel. What I am probably going to do for this weekend is still use my 7Ah SLA - that comes in at 85.8oz, or 5.36lbs. It is a big weight gain, but when I am in camp at night and the sun isn't out I can run all I want and not drain it. I am sure weights will fluctuate a bit, but given the weight of the rig and the low current consumption its amazing what all can go along and at minimal weight. Some die-hard backpackers would still say this is too much weight, but I am also a die-hard Ham so I'll take my 10lb weight loss and still be 4lbs or so over what I could be for the enjoyment of Ham radio on the trail. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX-3-Thank-you-Elecraft-for-dropping-over-10lbs-off-my-pack-weight-tp7559790.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Microphones - Yaesu MH-31
I have a spare Yaesu MH-31 from my FT-857D that has never been used. So I figured I would implement it with the KX3. There is very little audio coming out of the rig, the ALC will not budge on max audio and compression unless I whistle in to the mic where it will hit about 5 tick marks. I can hear audio when I turn the monitor gain up or listen on another rig, but it is not strong. The cable I have with the mic is a cut off end of a CAT5 cable, about 5' long. The RJ-45 is used on the mic end and the wires are soldered to a 4-circuit TRRS 3.5mm plug on the rig end. I tried changing the mic bias as per the manual as well as the switch on the back of the mic (equalizer of sorts I believe). Are there any more tricks? I do not believe the mic needs any power, but I could be wrong. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Microphones-Yaesu-MH-31-tp7559727.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - CW glitch with KXPD3/keyer?
wayne burdick wrote Steve, Another KXPD3 user recently pointed out something I hadn't considered. Some other keyer manufacturers who use cup-point set screws as contacts flatten (or round off) the screw ends using a fine file. This broadens the contact area, which can otherwise be very sharp with a cut point. I'm looking into whether we should be doing this in production. Please let me know if you try this on your KXPD3. 73, Wayne N6KR Wayne, I took your suggestion. I put a bit of a tweak to it, however. I noticed the set screws have a divot in them on the end that makes the contact. I took this back to flat across the whole set screw on a bench grinder (fine stone). Then I rounded them a bit on the same grinder/stone. After that I took my knife sharpening stones to the screws. I started at 120 grit and worked all the way through 6000 grit polish tape. The screws have a rounded near-mirror finish now. I don't have much key time with it just yet, but in the little I have used it just now it does quite noticeably improve the action. I spent a little more time tweaking the contact pressure/gap too. I had to play with it a little but I think its just about right. I will post back after a while and fill you in as to my experiences. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-CW-glitch-with-KXPD3-keyer-tp7559618p7559711.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - CW glitch with KXPD3/keyer?
I gave the KX3 an hour or so run on 40 meters and didn't have the original issue I was having with the delayed dits. So far so good. On a side note, I was running 1 watt. Lots of FUN! I didn't call CQ saying I was QRP, I just threw my call out there. One signal report came back 579 in amongst some QSB. Then I told the guy I was running 1 watt HIHI. He was at 5 watts, QRO compared to me. I might get my first trail test of the rig this weekend. Im either going out for an 8-10 mile trip or closer to 15-16 miles, if all works out, Saturday/Sunday. Maybe the shorter route as I haven't hiked since last Fall, we'll see. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-CW-glitch-with-KXPD3-keyer-tp7559618p7559718.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - CW glitch with KXPD3/keyer?
Thanks for the info, Stan. The antenna I was using all day yesterday was a Buddistick on 17 meters. I bypassed the tuner and had the SWR down to about 1.2-1.4:1. There was some fluctuation in the SWR outside of that, so I re-tuned the antenna a few times. The SWR changing was mostly from the lay of the counterpoise, but the feedpoint was set about 4 down in a bush (my support HI) so that affected it a little as well. Since the tuner was bypassed it wasn't trying to re-tune anything, but that doesn't mean the SWR was always good - I re-tuned the antenna a few times because of that. I will try cleaning the contacts and see where that gets me. I don't have any De-oxit but can get some in the next few days. I'll try the old paper abrasive method (someone once showed me that for cleaning my Vibroplex contacts - I use it for all my keys now). Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-CW-glitch-with-KXPD3-keyer-tp7559618p7559624.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - CW glitch with KXPD3/keyer?
Yeah, I should have been a bit more descriptive. The method I was taught is to clamp a small piece of regular paper (notebook paper, printer paper, etc) between the contacts and pull on it. If you clamp too tight on the paper it will tear, but at just the right pressure you can pull the paper through and see the discoloration as the oxidation and any other build-up on the contacts wipes off. I have heard a pencil eraser can have similar results. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-CW-glitch-with-KXPD3-keyer-tp7559618p7559640.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - Travel antennas - outside with rig inside
I am going to re-send this and see if it hits the KX3 group. I didn't put the rig model in the original post yesterday morning so I think it missed the crowd I intended it to go to. I am out of town this weekend and brought my 28' random wire/counterpoise. I have the random wire and counterpoise going out the window about 5' away. The tip of the random wire goes up in a tree about 15' up. The counterpoise goes out the window the opposite direction weaved through some bushes (to keep off the ground) about 5' up. The antenna seems to perform a ton better in a portable set up outside. There are signals I can hear on 40, but they are much weaker than if I set up outside. Another note is the window frame is wood and cranks open. I pulled the screen out to have clear access through the window. Wire is #26 Silky Wire from The Wireman (my favorite). I am thinking for this kind of set up I need to get the feedpoint OUTSIDE the window. Right now the wires come through the window and attach to the rig with a BNC-binding post adapter. I believe getting the feedpoint outside the window requires a coax cable and external tuner. Does anyone have any ideas on running the tuner inside the rig that may work without coax? Balanced feed lines will still detune through the window frame too, they need to be clear. Maybe it would perform better than the wires I have now though. What have some of you done that works? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Travel-antennas-outside-with-rig-inside-tp7559571.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Travel antennas - outside with rig inside
Dave, Have you had the rig inside with the antennas outside before? If so, how do you route your feedline? Slightly off topic but I am running a Buddistick antenna today up in Toledo, OH and getting out FB on 17. I've worked NY and KS (the KS qso was a KX3 to KX3!). I have 15' of RG-174 for my feed line. I forgot this was the cheap stuff. Since I bought this batch I've been getting LMR-100 instead. In any event, its working great. It will just be in use during the day outside though. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Travel-antennas-outside-with-rig-inside-tp7559571p7559577.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - CW glitch with KXPD3/keyer?
I have been running all CW so far with my KX3 and have noticed there is a delay a lot of times on dits. When calling CQ there is a hesitation when sending my call between the dits in the V (KC8QVO) that makes it sound like KC8QE UO or KC8QI AO. The first few times it happened I thought I just wasn't used to the key, but it happens too much to be the key. My speed is set to 18wpm in iambic B mode. Has anyone else noticed a similar characteristic? Or am I just crazy? Are there any tricks to a fix? Another potential glitch is with the memory keyer. I normally send my code farnsworth method and space out my letters. When I do that on the memory keyer recording it blends everything together so all the spacing between letters is the same as between words. I haven't tried sending with normal letter spacing to see if it holds that and expands the word spacing, but every time I've tried to record how I want to send it comes back with my call blended together with the same space between the 3 call signs as the individual letters. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-CW-glitch-with-KXPD3-keyer-tp7559618.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Travel antennas - outside with rig inside
I am out of town this weekend and brought my 28' random wire/counterpoise. I have the random wire and counterpoise going out the window about 5' away. The tip of the random wire goes up in a tree about 15' up. The counterpoise goes out the window the opposite direction weaved through some bushes (to keep off the ground) about 5' up. The antenna seems to perform a ton better in a portable set up outside. There are signals I can hear on 40, but they are much weaker than if I set up outside. Another note is the window frame is wood and cranks open. I pulled the screen out to have clear access through the window. Wire is #26 Silky Wire from The Wireman (my favorite). I am thinking for this kind of set up I need to get the feedpoint OUTSIDE the window. Right now the wires come through the window and attach to the rig with a BNC-binding post adapter. I believe getting the feedpoint outside the window requires a coax cable and external tuner. Does anyone have any ideas on running the tuner inside the rig that may work without coax? Balanced feed lines will still detune through the window frame too, they need to be clear. Maybe it would perform better than the wires I have now though. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Travel-antennas-outside-with-rig-inside-tp7559519.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 Re: Travel antennas - outside with rig inside
I should have been more specific on the rig - it is a KX3. I wrote that post in the morning when I was eating breakfast in a hurry to get out the door HI. I have an LDG Z11-pro tuner. I have used it in remote situations a lot in the past, with coax to the rig. Usually I end up running a 12v battery for the tuner to run off (7Ah SLA). However, I have plans to put AA battery cases in side (8 AA cells). A friend of mine has done this and it works out great. This may be the best route for me. I do have a 1:1 balun to use with it also (the LDG version), but I am in the works on making a more compact one. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Travel-antennas-outside-with-rig-inside-tp7559519p7559550.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] random wire and the KX3 ATU
I know this is an older topic but I figured I would post back with some results. I made up a random wire and counterpoise that are 28' each exactly as Don mentions - with the BNC-binding post adapter too. This works out pretty well on 40. I haven't tried the other bands but it seems like it will work according to Don. One trick I can offer is to elevate the radiator and counterpoise, don't just lay the counterpoise on the ground. Also, tuning was touchy on 40 but the KX3 tuner didn't have any issues with it, I just moved up the band a bit and re-tuned. Steve, KC8QVO Don Butler wrote I think my random wire is about 28 feet long. Using a bnc to dual binding post adapter with the random wire and a counterpoise I've had great success with the KX1 on 40M, 30M, and 20M. and now I'm using the same setup with my KX3, and in addition to 20, 30, and 40 I've also had success on 17M.. - Original Message - From: Scott Graham lt;n0nuf2@gt; To: lt;elecraft@.qthgt; Sent: Wednesday, June 27, 2012 1:15 PM Subject: [Elecraft] random wire and the KX3 ATU I've seen a lot of traffic on the random wire topic. Does anyone have a link to a website or an excellent design for a random wire that will at least do all bands 40m up (40-10)? -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/random-wire-and-the-KX3-ATU-tp7558258p7559436.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - 1:1 balun
I have a few Amidon T80-2 toroids and plan on making a 1:1 balun. I guess I really have 2 questions. 1. Would insulated wire work OK to wind it with or is it really necessary to use enamel coated magnet wire? I have some #28 or so (cuttings from computer ribbon wire) that may work out well (already bonded through the length of it, dual conductor parallel runs). If not I have some 18 gauge gold color magnet wire. 2. I am going to use a BNC connector for the rig side. I am thinking of putting a pigtail of LMR-100 (maybe 4-6) to the connector, but if it is going to be too lossy or cause the impedances to be too far out of whack I won't worry about it and make the balun a direct box off the side of the rig. My last question is if there are any good triple ratio balun designs. I want the 1:1 to match doublets, but a 2:1 and 4:1 ratio would allow a bit more flexibility in impedances. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-1-1-balun-tp7559405.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Calibrating Frequency/Aligning?
Can a few of you give me your cal numbers? I threw mine off. I didn't write the number down because it was so far off, got it tuned on 40 meters just right, then went to tune it on 30 and it was out of the ball park. Now I'm trying to get it tuned on 40 again. I guess its just one cal number across the board. That has me a bit worried. Based on my numbers before as the frequency went up the frequency error went up too. I am not sure that will calibrate out, but I'll give it a shot. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Calibrating-Frequency-Aligning-tp7559098p7559138.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Calibrating Frequency/Aligning?
OK, Ill try that. I am trying to get the radio to where I can use it. I'll be back home tonight so I can dial it in better on the service monitor. Once I started in on the calibration my plan was to check it on different bands, but that didn't work out so well HIHI. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Calibrating-Frequency-Aligning-tp7559098p7559142.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Calibrating Frequency/Aligning?
I am not having any luck with that CAL number. I am on 40 transmitting with my FT-857D in to a dummy load and I can't find the signal. I've gone way below and above the transmit frequency (7.025). Before when I adjusted the CAL number the first time I was on 40 and did the same thing - transmitted with the FT-857D and tuned the CAL number, with the KX3's VFO on the same frequency as the FT-857D, to zero-beat. It took a fair amount of dial spinning to get there but it went. Now I'm not sure where it is. Is there a standard starting number from the factory? How much variation is there in CAL numbers? I was thinking if I got a group of numbers and averaged them I might have a better shot, but until I can even find a signal on the rig I might be shooting in the dark. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Calibrating-Frequency-Aligning-tp7559098p7559146.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Calibrating Frequency/Aligning?
Well everything looks back on track now. I'm at 114.206.48. I tuned it in using WWV on 10mHz, then went to 15mHz and it was OK there. Then I went to 6 meters. If you look at my numbers above this is the band that had the largest error. I keyed up at 50.100 CW on the FT-857D then tuned it in with the KX3. It was off a bit so I centered the KX3's VFO at 50.100 and went back to the calibration to zero-beat it. After that I went back to WWV at 15 and 10mHz, all OK. Then I went to 80 meters - 3.500 CW. The KX3 shows 3.500.08 at zero beat. I think that's close enough for now. I still can't figure out why I couldn't find the FT-857D's signal before. It was fine last night when I recorded all the band errors and also when I calibrated it on 40. Then when I went to 30 I lost it. In any event, it all seems OK now. Thanks everyone. I'll check it again when I get home, but I don't know that I'll get it any closer. If anything changes I'll report back. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Calibrating-Frequency-Aligning-tp7559098p7559156.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Calibrating Frequency/Aligning?
114.206.70 was right on. I checked it on 40m, 20m, and 6m. My guess before at it wasn't too far off, all things considered. I used the the CWT function on the KX3 and generated a -100dBm signal in to it. Once I zeroed the signal on the CWT meter I changed bands and it was right on. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Calibrating-Frequency-Aligning-tp7559098p7559192.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - Calibrating Frequency/Aligning?
I have tuned around the bands a bit on my KX3 but I haven't had a QSO on it yet. I was working on hooking up a mic the past couple days and got it wired up. So I decided to give it a try listening on my FT-857D. The KX3 was plugged in to a dummy load. I put both rigs in CW first just to see what the signal strength was like listening on an antenna and transmitting in to the dummy load. I couldn't find the transmitted signal from the KX3. Long story short, I changed bands a few times and that didn't work. So I put the antenna on the KX3 and found that I was detecting a close signal on the other rig. I took a spin around the dial to find it. My KX3 was on 18.070 and my FT-857D tuned it in at 18.057.67. I put the dummy load back on the KX3 and tried USB. Without touching the frequency on the KX3 the FT-857D pulled in the SSB signal at 18.057.5, 12.5kHz off. The FT-857D is my every day rig in the truck, I know its not that far off. How can I align/calibrate the frequency on the KX3? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Calibrating-Frequency-Aligning-tp7559098.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Calibrating Frequency/Aligning?
Here are some more numbers: FT857D / KX3 160: 1800 / 1801.18 80: 3.500 /3.502.35 40: 7.000 / 7.004.76 30: 10.100 / 10.106.88 20: 14.000 / 14.009.55 17: 18.100 / 18.112.37 15: 21.000 / 21.014.36 12: 24.900 / 24.917.1 10: 28.000 / 28.019.18 6:50.100 / 50.134.32 These were all measured on CW. I have a service monitor back home so I have a better reference to use, just not with me right now. If there is an alignment procedure that would be a big help. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Calibrating-Frequency-Aligning-tp7559098p7559113.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 #687 built
It only took about 4 hours. Very easy. If you read the directions it is extremely well laid out, typical Elecraft. What surprised me was the serial number. 687 - and I ordered the second day. Wow. I wonder what they're up to now - after Hamvention and others seeing the KX3's already out and running around the bands. The numbers have to be sky high even still. Now I can't wait to get the rest of the options - 2m module and charger. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-687-built-tp7559013.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - Filters? Am I missing something or??
I plugged an antenna in to my KX3 this evening for the first time - dead. I got to playing around with it and cranked the filter wide open and the receiver came back to life. Every time I crank the knob past Fil1 to Fil2 I loose the receiver. I flipped through the manual and didn't see much pertaining to this. I am thinking that the roofing filters are just that - roofing filters. I do not have them installed. Shouldn't the receiver allow DSP filtering down to 50Hz? I see there are spaces for Fil4 and Fil5 on the display, but mine don't light up past Fil3 even if I go down to 50Hz. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Filters-Am-I-missing-something-or-tp7559031.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Filters? Am I missing something or??
Don, You hit the nail on the head! BINGO! I don't believe I touched the roofing filter menu, I had no reason to in that I didn't install it. However, it was already selected in the menu and set to normal. Either way, I turned it off and it brought back the DSP filter. Thanks for the explanation on the display. I didn't realize it was the exact same display. Now mine only shows Fil1 and I can scroll way down in bandwidth just like I expected to. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Filters-Am-I-missing-something-or-tp7559031p7559037.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Holy Guacamole Batman
Beware of the shipping notices via E-mail. I have been having E-mail problems with Elecraft. I noticed the order number on the site was past what mine was so I picked up the phone and called. Sure enough, the E-mail never made it through. Subsequently I never received a shipping confirmation or order number thereafter either. In the grand scheme of things it wasn't a huge deal, I had a way around it in that I called to confirm my order over the phone. That also having been said, and related to the OP's post, I can commiserate in regards to the bad timing. The one day I scheduled my team for field work was the day after my KX3 laded on my door step (last night when I got home from work). I got 4 hours of sleep after the build and then put in ~11 hours driving and climbing towers and grain bins today. It was a fun day regardless, but I'm beat - and still no QSO's on the rig! Oh well, I'll get some sleep and relax and then maybe I can make a QSO HI. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Holy-Guacamole-Batman-tp7558746p7559038.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 order backlog
Mike, I agree with Don and others - get your order in now. In the mean time, work on selling off your other gear. Then you will have a shorter wait. If you sell off your gear and then put your order in you will probably be out longer than if you order now and get on the list. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-order-backlog-tp7552373p7554275.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Order made Dec 31st at 1346
How do you know what time the order was placed? I went back and viewed my original order confirmation e-mail and there is no time on it, just an order number. Are we to go off of the time that the e-mail was generated? If that's the case my order went in 12/28 at 6:24PM EST, or 2324UTC (I think). Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Order-made-Dec-31st-at-1346-tp7522907p7533739.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Reminder: KX3 Tracking sheet - Deliveries this week
I looked at that spreadsheet and it appears that only the assembled versions are being shipped. I would have thought some kits would have gone out by now. It isn't looking good for having the KX3 for Hamvention and my summer vacation. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Reminder-KX3-Tracking-sheet-Deliveries-this-week-tp7449680p7495463.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX-3 received!
va3bxg wrote You get an email asking you to confirm your order etc. Then depending on the shipping method, another email with the tracking number when actual shipped out Robert I have a concern. Does anyone know what address the e-mails are sent from? The reason I ask is when the early order notification went out I did not receive it as it got delivered to my spam box. If it is possible I would like to add the e-mail address that my final order confirmation is going to be sent from to my e-mail settings so that it makes it in to my regular mail, and not my spam box. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX-3-received-tp7457786p7457989.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Shipment schedule by order date
I know what you're saying. I ordered later on the second day (12/28). I'd be curious what the estimate would be too. I won't call in and ask though, they're probably swamped already. But if it takes 3-4 weeks just to get through day 1 that's going to be a while. Day 2 could have close to as many orders as day 1, maybe more, maybe less. Most of us that had the itch got on the early order list so I bet that was a significant number before they opened regular orders. Based on the news article, if they got several hundred orders on day 1 that's a heck of a list! I don't know if I'd be elated or overwhelmed. Probably both I suppose :) Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Shipment-schedule-by-order-date-tp7422771p7423325.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 shipping status update
There is an update, if it wasn't found already, on the shipping status page 3/28 - the new boards are in and they mention being on track for shipments starting towards the end of the week. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-shipping-status-update-tp7326437p7417158.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 shipping status update
Well tomorrow brings the 28th. No e-mail today. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-shipping-status-update-tp7326437p7412189.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 shipping status update
Tomorrow is Monday the 19th. Maybe things will pop :) I am anxiously awaiting my confirmation e-mail. Every time my phone bleeps I'll check HI. We'll see what happens this week. I am sure the Elecraft crew is just as excited as we are to get things rolling. I trust we will get them when Elecraft gets all their ducks in a row and determines they're fit for their customers - no sooner. I'm anxious but I can wait. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-shipping-status-update-tp7326437p7384434.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 shipping status update
wayne burdick wrote (No, we won't be posting their phone number on this list :) Oh, but that would be too much fun HI. I am sure everything will work out in the end. Thanks for the note Wayne. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-shipping-status-update-tp7326437p7384515.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Product Information
Well said Ian. I couldn't agree more. My guess is most of us have a zillion radios already, we aren't out anything by not having our KX3's. I'd rather let Wayne, Eric, and crew work to their abilities and wait than be presented a sub-par product. That is a rarity in this world - it seems we hear time is money all the time. The quicker something gets done and the quicker a company moves on to the next project the more money they make and the better that company, seemingly, becomes. Quality is many times at odds with that thought process. To that point a delay on my KX3 being delivered doesn't bother me one bit. I am anxious too but I'll get my radio when I get it. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Product-Information-tp7347067p7353545.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KXPA100 Schedule
It is my understanding the amp is a stand-alone unit that will work with any rig. The same can't be said for the module in the K2 where the K2-specific circuitry is required to run the amp. If it is truly independent, and remotable in, say, your car trunk then it would have to be totally independent if just the coax is shared (and power). Maybe there is a band control circuit that will let the amp follow the rig? I know some of the lower end RM Italy, or similar, amps use sensing for auto band switching so maybe that is the route Elecraft is going. If so that would be real nice! Maybe in the future if I get an amp for my QRP gear the one for the KX3 will be all I need - and an American made one at that. Well wait a minute, an amp for QRP? Isn't that an oxymoron? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KXPA100-Schedule-tp7348993p7350444.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [KX3] Microphone idea - adapter
I have an FT-857D with the remote mic, the stock mic is sitting around doing nothing. So I thought of an idea. Why not make an RJ-45 to 4 circuit TRRS adapter and use the stock mic with the KX3? When I installed my FT-857D in my truck I used a panel mount female-female RJ45 I grabbed off some piece of scrap equipment a buddy had and it works real well. I was thinking of just using the stock female-female RJ-45 that came with my FT-857D/remote kit for my KX3 project, but I don't like that idea too much. For a mobile its fine but I'm looking for something more compact for the KX3. Are there any cable mounted female RJ-45 connectors that anyone knows of? Mousers selection pretty much has panel mounted ones or cable mounted ones that have some sort of fancy waterproof/locking mechanism on them. I just need a basic RJ-45, but the reverse gender. Does such a thing exist? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Microphone-idea-adapter-tp7309841p7309841.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] Microphone idea - adapter
Scott, Thanks for the reply. However, that is the same part I have from my Yaesu kit - female RJ-45's on both sides. The kind of jack I am looking for would have a wire connection/mount on one side (mounts to a cable itself - just like a male RJ-45 that we're probably all familiar with by now) and a female jack on the other that I can plug my mic in to. The wire I use would then go from the female RJ-45 to the TRRS 4 circuit plug that the KX3 takes. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Microphone-idea-adapter-tp7309841p7310172.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] Microphone idea - adapter
Ray, YES That is a fantastic solution. I never thought of looking for a cable like that, but that would do exactly what I need. Even better, I found one locally at Microcenter - they call it a port saver - 1' long. That will work wonderfully. http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0233505 http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0233505 Sometimes we need to think outside the box - the pre-made cable is that much less work to boot, just the TRRS plug and I'm done. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Microphone-idea-adapter-tp7309841p7310555.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] [KX3] Status?
Well said! I think that the suspense goes to show what kind of products Elecraft puts out. They are instant classics and carry with them a prestige all their own. If they weren't in that category the delay wouldn't be such a big deal to everyone. I'd be curious how many hams are out there chomping at the bit along with us for the KX3 HI. Though the suspense is crazy I trust Elecraft is doing the best. A time delay is well warranted if it means one less bug (software or hardware) for us to deal with. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Status-tp7289579p7292655.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] [KX3] Status?
We're half way through the month. Any word on getting close to shipment? Will it be closer to the end of February or first couple weeks of March? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Status-tp7289579p7289579.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] When will the KX3 go into production?
I have no qualms about the delay. Elecraft has the best interest of their customers in mind and I believe they are going to do the best they can. I don't mind more of a delay if it means a bug was caught before it got in my hands. It could also be a supply issue - circuit boards, components, enclosure, etc. Maybe they are in the middle of a last minute supplier shift. It could be anything. I also expect the KX3 to not be perfect right out of the box in the first run. Hold your horses. I am looking forward to the 2m module though... Steve, KC8QVO. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/When-will-the-KX3-go-into-production-tp7236813p7241900.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Carrying case for KX3
I have been using Pelican cases for my ham gear. I built a travel case for my buddy's KX1 a few years back out of a Pelican 1060. I don't think the KX3 will fit in the 1060 I have, but when the rig gets here I have something to try. For backpacking I am not sure I will use any other kind of case. Minimum weight is the key and I can wrap the rig with some clothes to protect it = double purpose. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Carrying-case-for-KX3-tp7218431p7233442.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - Has anyone been billed yet?
Just curious if anyone has seen their transaction come through yet (except for those that wanted billed ahead of time). I am watching for mine to hit :) Wayne or Eric - will we get an e-mail that everything is ready? I am in need of a reason to clear of the work bench... This will actually be the first rig run through on the new bench, though I believe the soldering iron will remain cold HIHI. I am sure I'll find another reason to put some power to it though, I always come up with something. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Has-anyone-been-billed-yet-tp7208944p7208944.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 - Has anyone been billed yet?
Bill, That is the same order confirmation that gave us our 12 digit order numbers. I'll be curious to know when they start shipping. I put my order in on 12/28, I see my original accepting orders notification e-mail went out on the 27th. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Has-anyone-been-billed-yet-tp7208944p7209922.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] KX3 - Microphone idea
I am looking in to the 4 circuit phone plugs and thinking about making my own microphone. Heil used to have the HC-4 and HC-5 elements available by themselves. I thought this would make for a neat mic combined with a compact enclosure. Has anyone had experience with wiring up the Heil elements? Have you used the elements in anything other than a standard mic case? IE - film can (if it fits), pill bottle, or other odds and ends? I have a speaker mic for my HT that I could possibly convert as well, not sure how well it would work. I'd like to keep it functional for the HT though so an adapter would need to be made to get it in to the KX3. I could route the audio in to it for a true speaker mic as well. This is going to be a lot of fun! Now, when is it going to show up in my mailbox??? :) -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Microphone-idea-tp7182487p7182487.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3-2M extended receive?
Though I respect your opinion, Mike, and everyone else that shares the same sentiment, I must entirely disagree with your point about using an HT to supplement the KX3 vs. the multi-mode capability on 2m. My basis for my comments is backpacking. I ask those that are consider the multi-mode operability of the KX3 as being the sole reason wideband receive is not feasible and that an HT must be required to supplement that which the KX3 does not cover if you have ever gone backpacking. That doesn't mean a short day hike or walking a mile to a camp site for the weekend, I am talking about packing everything you need for 2 or more days covering 20+ miles. I still consider these trips short or small in the grand scheme of backpacking, but the point is that every pound you add is that much more weight you have to carry with you the whole time. Therefore by packing lighter and smaller the enjoyment of your adventure goes up and the effort, wear, and tear on ones body goes down. Have you experienced that and the different challenges associated with packing for treks like that? Have you felt the affects on your body after a trip like that? An example I will give you is on past trips I have taken my FT-857D on 3 day backpacking trips covering in the 18-24 mile range through the Appalachian mountains. The set up I have for the FT-857D complete is right around 15lbs. That's a LOT of weight. The reason it weighs what it does is mostly the rig and battery. Even though now that I have a K2 I can get by with less weight (lighter rig, lighter battery) I would have to supplement that with adding an HT for VHF/UHF. The FT-857D covers everything I need in one box - its a single rig solution and that out weighs the added weight. Starting with a base weight of 40lbs (my backpacking gear, food) adding 15lbs of radio stuff brings me up to 55lbs. Thats a very typical pack weight for me. Try it some time. Find a trail in the mountains that's a mile long and throw a 55lb backpack on to hike it. That will give you an idea of what its like. Now cover ~20 miles over a 3 day period. Adding extra gear to a backpack is probably the number one rule to avoid. Making due with less and using other items for multiple purposes, even getting creative and using items for purposes they were never designed for all helps to trim the overall pack weight. Adding an HT at a couple lbs is bad enough by itself, adding that weight on top of, say, 4-5lbs (KX3, batteries, antenna, key, mic, just a rough guess) really starts to add up. That is still lbs difference than my FT-857D set up. My last trip to TN I left my 857 behind and just took my HT. I couldn't handle the added weight - I was trying to stay well under 50lbs, but I had wet/cold weather gear with me and there was no way I could take another 15lbs. I ended up right about 50lbs as it was. I am not arguing the design of the KX3, just trying to paint a picture for those that may not have the perspective I do. The performance of the radio is one thing - and I agree that it is important. Operating from a mountain side in the wilderness is a huge world of difference than your shack desk, the back yard, or even the box you pack to take with you to the beach or your sisters house for Christmas. If there is a challenging environment to operate a rig from, aside from an RF environment (contesting, field day, etc) it would have to be in the weight/portability/performance class in that the smaller/lighter packages lend themselves to going where most radios will never go. The practicality of the extra band coverage cannot be down-played in those circumstances. I personally couldn't care less about the public service and MARS frequencies above 2m, its the NOAA weather channels because that is a very good resource on adventures. If that is something that could be added in another module, even, that would be neat. Its the one rig solution that is important to me. As it is the rig will fill a unique niche in my radio arsenal - which is why I ordered one - a CW AND SSB rig on HF in a compact, light, and well thought-out package. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-2M-extended-receive-tp7160468p7164932.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3-2M extended receive?
Andrew, I am very impatiently awaiting the details like you are on this subject. What I can share from what I have learned here on the list is that this has not in fact been detailed yet, that has been announced. The 2m module is still in development. That having been said, it has been alluded to that extended receive beyond the 2m band is probably not feasible. There is a sensitivity limitation with the receiver. Also, the IF for the 2m transverter is 6m so there will not be the 2MHz band limitation as would happen if 10m were used. If the KX3 receiver is general coverage and goes beyond the 6m band I could see where some extended receive may be possible outside of the 2m band, seeing as 6m is the pseudo IF. What I would like to see is the 2m module allowing receive up through the weather band above 162MHz. When out backpacking it is a great aid to get the NOAA weather reports. I got stuck hiking in the remnants of Tropical Storm Lee in the Smoky Mountains last year and my HT was most often tuned to NOAA hihi. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-2M-extended-receive-tp7160468p7163080.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Kit/Assembled Decision
My understanding is it is a no-solder modular kit, like the K3 just a smaller box. I would imagine there will be some hardware to work with (knobs, face plate cover, buttons) in addition to fitting the boards (if there's more than one) inside the case and closing it up. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-Kit-Assembled-Decision-tp7148735p7149214.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] IF tap?
Is there a good place to tap the IF stream for an output? I have a spectrum analyzer and was thinking of running an IF-out to the analyzer, it doesn't matter what frequency if its under a gig. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/IF-tap-tp7144523p7144523.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] IF tap?
I figured the radio was implied since I posted in the K2 forum In any event, its a K2 SN 6950. I'm just looking for a constant frequency I can use post-VFO to run through my spectrum analyzer so I can see the band I'm on. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/IF-tap-tp7144523p7144697.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] IF tap?
Don Wilhelm-4 wrote Steve, This Elecraft email reflector stopped being the K2 reflector as soon as the K1 was available, and now there are questions about the K3, K2, K1, KX1, now the KX3, KPA500, KRC2, mini-modules, and any other product that Elecraft has produced or has announced for the future. Clifton Labs Z1-K2 buffer can be installed in the K2 to provide IFoutput for your spectrum analyzer. Look at http://www.cliftonlaboratories.com/z1_buffer_amp.htm. 73, Don W3FPR In regards to the reflector/forum - I posted on the website under the K2 forum. There are also categories for the K1, KX1, K3, etc. I am not using the e-mail system to get the post in to the reflector. I forgot that the e-mail list does not categorize posts in the same regard that the website does for the reflector. Just playing around here - I dug out my manual and found the RX Mixer. I tapped the Post-Mixer Amp side of C159 and the ground side of R80 with a length of RG-174. Then I ran that back to the receive antenna connector on the 160 module (desoldered the wires to the 160 module). I figured this would give me a 4.915mHz reference from which to tap but it doesn't work too well. There's more to learn here for sure. I figured there would be a place in the circuit I could tap to bring out the IF to the analyzer. Would I not be correct in assuming that the spectrum analyzer can read the same signal(s) fed to the rest of the K2's receiver? -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/IF-tap-tp7144523p7145046.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Have orders filled up yet? Is there a cap?
Keith, The way I am going to do mine is get the rig kit, CW key, and charger option. I am waiting for the 2m module so I will have to do a second order when that is available regardless. Once I have the rig and get to use it a bit I will adjust the other features at that time. Some other options I am looking at are the roofing filters and tuner, for example. The biggie for me, though, is the 2m module... no two ways about that one! -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Have-orders-filled-up-yet-Is-there-a-cap-tp7139304p7140636.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Have orders filled up yet? Is there a cap?
I don't have a K3, but it is a great rig. That will be neat to see how the interface works between them. My portable rig for years has been the FT-857D. When I flew to Florida last month I threw both the K2 and the FT-857D in. If I had to do it over at the time I would have only taken the FT-857D, too much hassle and extra space with both. The KX3 will take the place of the FT-857D. I am a backpacker too and really like taking a rig along, although I haven't always. Last trip I just took an HT and that irritated me but at least I could catch the weather reports. As long as the 2m module receives up in to the 162 range for NOAA weather that would be great. I could confine my trail and airplane-friendly rigs to just the KX3 saving space and weight. I put a note out to the HFPack yahoo group that orders were open. My guess is everyone in that group that is/would be interested already has ordered one, but it might generate a few more orders :) -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Have-orders-filled-up-yet-Is-there-a-cap-tp7139304p7140699.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 vs FT817 (comparing apples+oranges)
I do agree with some of what Doug says. I see the numbers side with the pricing - you are more than double the original price Doug outlined with a KX3. The FT-817ND now is in the $700+ range. Going off that number a base KX3 is $300 more - not a double in price. Regarding the apples to oranges comment - I entirely agree. In fact, I find it hard to compare the KX3 to a lot of radios because there is so much under the cover (and on the cover). My potable radio for years has been the FT-857D. That is my every day rig in the mobile (160-6m, 2m, 70cm) and is my grab'n'go rig. I have a K2 also and that is nice when car-camping, but at that point the FT-857D is along too - it has VHF/UHF capabilities the K2 does not. Adding in the 2m module to the KX3 will let me grab that instead of un-installing the FT-857D. I am anxious to throw it in the backpack and head out to the Appalachians for a few days. My pack weight will drop substantially and my back will thank me! For what the FT-817 is - it is a neat little rig. That satisfied a niche for years in the HFPack community. It is really hard to knock the useability of the rig. For those that currently have them maybe, as Doug alludes to, it will remain a staple in their portable arsenals. My FT-857D will be a staple in my arsenal in some instances I would assume, but there is some versatility in that rig that the KX3 will replace, no doubt. At the time I got the FT-857D I considered other rigs - and the FT-817 was one of them. Where I use my FT-857D most of the time is as my every-day mobile rig, and to that point there still is no radio on the market that satisfies that niche to the same capacity - the FT-857D, as heavy as it is, still has made its way in to my backpack for trips around southern Ohio and the Appalachian mountains. It is compact and the receive current is low (500-550mA = low enough to run on batteries). Try that with an IC-7000 (one of the better mobile rigs on the market). That rig's current consumption is at least 2 amps (2000mA) and it is also heavier. Or, conversely, try putting an FT-817 in the mobile... Doesn't work too well - the faceplate doesn't remote and the power output is low. Who knows - maybe the KX3 will make it in to my mobile station with the KXPA100... Then the FT-857D for VHF/UHF and the KX3 for HF? HI. The possibilities are endless. We are all entitled to our own opinions. What the base of those opinions is can vary, but we're the ones that choose our tools. What we want our tools to do or have change, but guess what? They all do the same job. All radios let you communicate. Do you want CW only? SSB only? Both? HF only? A few bands or all bands? Is VHF important to you? Do you travel? Do you operate from home? -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-vs-FT817-comparing-apples-oranges-tp7139599p7140785.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX3 whip antenna and paddle
wayne burdick wrote The KX3 could be turned on/off and fully controlled from a hypothetical super-mic that includes a display and speaker. No plans to make such mic yet, but the design supports it. That would be really cool. The HFPack edition hand-set? -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX3-whip-antenna-and-paddle-tp7134143p7137940.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Have orders filled up yet? Is there a cap?
Just curious if anyone has figured out if the orders are closed or not. I'd be curious what the limit is on first-round production, if any, and if there is a limit on order numbers until the second round? Also, does anyone know how the rigs are packaged? Is it factory-assembled first? Kits first? Both in the order they were received? Somewhere along the line I heard the kits will ship later but not sure if that's true or not. I am anxious to put mine together and fire it up! -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Have-orders-filled-up-yet-Is-there-a-cap-tp7139304p7139304.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX-3 Order...
The KX3 page doesn't show ordering in Dec, shipping in late January/Early February anymore. I just checked the price pages and the KX3 is not listed Weird. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX-3-Order-tp7132381p7132486.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] KX-3 Order...
I found the e-mail. It went to my SPAM box, 3 pages back. Can you believe that? I hardly ever get anything dropped in my SPAM box and the one e-mail I was waiting for (apparently came today) wasn't even on the first page! Wow. In any event, I got my order in too. KX3, keyer, and charger. I am waiting for the 2m module. I will order that when it is available. I am going to hold off on the mic. I will see if I can home brew one. Not sure what plug it takes though...As for the 100w amp - I will wait and check it out when it is available. I am not too sure if I want to go that route or not. Although, it might be nice to add later. We'll see. I just want the portability and 2m capability! This is going to be awesome. -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/KX-3-Order-tp7132381p7134366.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] Internal tuner vs. 2m module?
wayne burdick wrote We're planning to allow the ATU and transverter to both be installed at the same time. 73, Wayne I guess my quoting didn't work the first round... In any event, That is great news on the 2m and tuner in the same box. Now I want one even more! I would be curious as to what the status is on the 2m module. I am guessing that is coming after the first few production runs. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Internal-tuner-vs-2m-module-tp7061700p7064984.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] Internal tuner vs. 2m module?
Somewhere along my readings I heard something about possibly adding 2m later down the road in the KX3 and that it would be optional whether you want the tuner OR the 2m module. I am taking that to mean that both modules will not fit under the hood of the KX3. There have been several K2 op's that have remote mounted the 100w module outside of the case of the K2 to allow a 10w portable rig or a desk-top 100w rig. Just because the module is intended to be an internal addition doesn't mean there isn't a way to put it outside the box. That brings me to my question: How hard would it be to remote mount the tuner? I would greatly benefit from having 2m in the rig as I am a backpacker and that would let me have an all-in-one rig. I also like to use jumper dipoles so for the most part I have a resonant antenna with me and don't need the tuner function. However, for other portable operations it would be nice to have the tuner such as when I fly out for conferences or training - pack it all in a suit case and off I go! An even better addition to 2m - make the receive capabilities cover the adjacent VHF spectrum, specifically up through 163mHz to cover the NOAA weather stations. This is a huge help after 2 days in the back country. Also, if the module can have repeater capabilities that would be great (probably a stupid question/suggestion as all all-mode 2m rigs do). Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Internal-tuner-vs-2m-module-tp7061700p7061700.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] CW transmitting - any clicks?
This may be a stupid question, but does the KX3 click at all transmitting CW? For example - when I stick my headphones on with my FT-857D it still clicks between RX and TX. It makes it impossible to have quiet, non-bothersome QSO's in camp when everyone else is trying to bed down for the night. I can throw some clothes around the rig but that doesn't solve the problem, just dampens it. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/CW-transmitting-any-clicks-tp7050281p7050281.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Build - #6950
Good news - the rig is on the air! I have made two QSO's on it so far. I tried holding off to get one of my friends to give me the first QSO but I scrolled past a guy calling CQ and just couldn't resist HI. So I have two QSO's on the rig so far. I tuned the filters first with the receive method. I keyed up one of my other radios in to a dummy load and tuned the filters to peak the meter. I adjusted the power out of the radio so I got close to a jump in the meter on the K2. Then I fine-tuned the inductors and caps more. After the receive test it was on to the transmit. I peaked the filters for power out (based on the K2's internal metering while in tune mode). In most cases I was very close already. A couple of issues that need resolved - First - the buttons on the right side of the rig don't always work right. Specifically the filter button and the ATTN/PRE. They seem to have crossed signals with the display, band up, and band down functions. Any ideas on this one? Most notably - the filter button scrolls through the bands instead of adjusting the filter width. Second - I wasn't able to get any more than .6w out when I did the transmit test on 17m. It seems to me the caps were very touchy during the receive test. I was using a metal screwdriver to adjust them and that was playing all kinds of havoc on the tuning. So I went back to the tuning tool that came with it. The reason I wasn't using it before was because the caps were stiff and I didn't want to break the tool. Oh well - theres a reasn why the tool is plastic, eh? HI. In any event, I will get back over to my buddy's place with the test lab and peak the filters. 17m really seems goofy to me though. I was able to get nearly all the other bands cose on the receive tuning. Then when I hit 17m I couldn't get the power to go up for nothing. Hopefully this one is just being difficult and will be tuned in easier in a lab session. The buttons are also a bit of a concern. However, the transmitter and receiver work for the most part. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K2-Build-6950-tp5091343p5124426.html Sent from the [K2] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K2 #6950 - Alignment 2, VCO and BFO issues
I went through the trouble shooting list here in the back of the manual and found my VCO output (pin 3 of U3) to fluctuate between .08-1.33v. Also, the BFO output (pin 6 of U11) shows .136-.2v. Both measurements were done with a DMM and the probe kit. Any ideas? With Alignment II my PLL Reference high freq is 12003.17 and the low freq is 11990.48, range = 12.69. The BFO freqs are: high=4916.87, low=4912.16, range=2.71. Another quick question about adjusting C22 using another radio - I turned C22 both directions and found it would peak the sidetone frequency/intensity heard on the radio at one point and either direction beyond that the tone and volume dropped off. I went counter clockwise, using headphones, until I couldn't hear any tone and bounced between LSB and USB to make sure I couldn't hear anything (low freq rumble) in either mode. Did I do this correctly? Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K2-6950-Alignment-2-VCO-and-BFO-issues-tp5119230p5119230.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Build - #6950
Problem found. I did some swapnostics with a buddy's K2 and we traced the problem to the front panel. After going through all the resistance checks again my friend found the problem - U4 was backwards. It took me quite a while to fix it. I used solder wick to suck out the solder. I am sure anyone that has done that on a 20 pin IC can relate - quite tedious to pull the chip without lifting a pad or pulling a plated thru hole! Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K2-Build-6950-tp5091343p5106740.html Sent from the [K2] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 RF Board resistance checks - not in spec
I also found pins 29 and 30 (dot/dash) on U6 on the Control Board to have higher than spec resistance, 96.7k and 96.5k respectively. They should be 70-90k. Weird. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K2-RF-Board-resistance-checks-not-in-spec-tp5091997p5095619.html Sent from the [K2] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K2 Build - #6950
I got the K2 powered up. It showed the default message INFO 201 and ELECrAFt, then 7100.00c. The display button won't switch anything and the VFO knob doesnt change the frequency (page 44, left column). Time for some trouble shooting. Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K2-Build-6950-tp5091343p5091676.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] K2 RF Board resistance checks - not in spec
Here are my out-of-spec measurements. Any ideas? R1 = 96.4k R2 = 96.5k Both should be 1M. Everthing else in the list checks out (well above the lower spec limit). At this point the rig powers up and gives me the 201 message, switches to ELECrAFt, then 7100.00c but the buttons and knobs don't work (the next step is to push the display button to see what the voltage reading is, switch back to VFO, and spin the VFO knob to observe the frequency change - neither the display button or the VFO knob do anything). Steve, KC8QVO -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/K2-RF-Board-resistance-checks-not-in-spec-tp5091997p5091997.html Sent from the [K2] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
