[Elecraft] OT- A trip into Yesteryear!
Wow, Ron, talk about waxing nostalgic. I know exactly what you mean, though. If you like, we could make a sked. I can fire up one of my homebrew rigs and we can try and recapture a few fleeting moments of youth. I don't have a transmitter that sounds like a 'vociferous frog' but I definitely have one that will do 'choked chicken' :-) I really liked your post. Tom, ak2b __ 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] CQ Contest
I used LP-Pan for the first time in the WPX contest. I was surprised to see how the display exploded with signals at the beginning of the contest. Holly moley, where do they all come from? I like to believe I'm not into contesting all that much but have to admit I got really caught up in it this time. I started working all the big blips first and worked my way up 20 meters and then worked my way down on the slightly smaller blips. By the time I had taken care of all the bigger signals I started concentrating on the smaller ones. On Sunday morning I saw several signals above 14.110MHz that turned out to be Asian. Without a spectrum display I probably would never have tuned that high. I have the 500Hz and the 8 pole 250Hz filters. More than once during the contest I uttered to myself, "what a great radio". I kept the filter just below 250Hz most of the contest and found it amazing that I could easily work the weaker signals even while being blasted on either side of my passband by two very strong ones. Two stations would nearly have to be on top of one another before I couldn't work one of them. I use MixW for logging - mainly because I'm used to it and the spectrum display with a marker at 600Hz makes it very easy to zero beat. I think that may have helped a bit. I ended up with 360 Q's using 'search and pounce' (or in the case of LP-Pan, 'point and shoot') on 40, 20, 15 and 10 meters. I don't know how real contesters do it - my butt got so sore that I had to take a lot of breaks. If I can find a solution to that problem, I will do even better next time :). Tom, AK2B __ 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] Updated Version of K3 AGC Paper
That's good information presented very clearly. Thanks, Jack. Tom, ak2b ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] [K3]IRS SRC
Yesterday, right on my birthday, I received my IRS Subreceiver Rebate Check. I have every intention to stimulate the economy :-). Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 and DXLabs
Well this is a little like talking about someone when they are in the same room. My normal day to day rig control program is also MixW. I too find the HRD interface a bit cluttered. Having said that, I've used Simon's programs for other things: FT-817 commander for programming memories for low orbit satellites and general rig control for the worlds most annoying radio (I can't see anything on the FT-817!). HRD DDE DDS-60 control. Along with a USB control program for the DDS-60 VFO I linked to HRD through Dynamic Data Exchange to send and receive frequency and band information to give me control of a homebrew Receiver. DM780 is a brilliant program but needs to be severed from the mother ship. I believe it will eventually be the gold standard of all digital programs. It truly is a joy to use with a very intuitive user interface. And before anyone brings it up, yes I did donate. It is a bargain. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] I want a blue K3
..with chrome knobs and an LCD display so I can watch Oprah. Oh yeah, can you make it a little taller so I don't have to squint? Can you put a fan on top that blows a refrigerant to keep my beer cool? I know you're busy, but.. Thanks, Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft K3 Wait and Wait and Wait! [END of Thread]
Wow, Eric that was impressive. Makes me feel proud to be an Elecraftian. I wish I felt the same way after a "State of the Union" address but then, you actually make sense. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 accessories construction order
"I have been reading some of the construction comments of the existing K3 owners and note that they have had to disassemble previously constructed pieces to install items to the base radio, e.g. the KPA100 assembly. " Hi Forrest, I built my K3 109 with revision C of the construction manual and can't recall any time where I had to disassemble the 100 W PA. I think the most recent manual was revised as much as possible to avoid that kind of problem. It is necessary for you to follow the manual EXACTLY and take precautions where the manual tells you to. If you come to a section that seems confusing at first, re-read it until it doesn't. The manual is well written and when followed should produce a K3 that will work with the first flick of the on/off switch. Everything is supplied with the K3 kit except patience. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 AFX Feature
Dave W7AQK wrote: "So, in case you were wondering, AFX is not just a "gee whiz" feature.." The first time I tried this I kind of thought it wasn't all that useful. But, as you said, with certain signals it can make copy easier. I also combine it sometimes with dual passband filtering which also helps. I've had the K3 for a week now and I am still finding little surprises here and there. I haven't seen a radio so cleverly thought out since the K2. What a great radio! Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: not about technical issues (was Shipping StatusPage)
This is the way I see it. Waiting for a K3 is like waiting in a long line for a movie. Most people realize that waiting in line is no fun and have to make a decision on whether the wait is worth it, or, get out of line. Having made the decision to wait in line one usually finds a way to distract themselves to put off the discomfort as much as possible. Unfortunately, there is always someone in line that decides to stamp their feet and cluck their tongues in an effort to draw attention to themselves - at the same time looking around for other like minded people in hopes of substantiating their misery. In the meantime, the line is moving at a reasonable pace and in the back of your mind you realize that once inside, these same people will be nitpicking the movie. I have my K3. I just finished putting it together and I can tell you it so far has surpassed my expectations. It is well worth the wait! Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 review
http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/6673 Nice review - couldn't have said it better. P.S. Maybe there is a market niche for K3 dribble bibs. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 arrival
K3 SN 109 arrived in NYC 12/3/07 from an order placed on May 1. YAHOo. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3: SN56 qrv, but.....
Thom k3hrn wrote: "Of course alternative is to simply stop wondering about delays and sit in the dark and let the spores mature..." Geez, I thought I was the poster child for Instant Gratification. I don't understand how you are wondering about delays. I thought they were pretty well explained in previous posts. If you are expecting a daily summary of all K3's shipped, I think you expect too much. Perhaps Elecraft, due to their accessibility, are left open to this kind of expectation. All in all, I think they have been very forthcoming. I doubt you would find any company that would give you those numbers. It appears to me that things are looking up, all things considered. Everyone wants their K3 including me. But, given the circumstances and an adequate explanation, I appreciate the fact that Elecraft wants to get them out the door as fast as possible without sacrificing quality. So, get a beer, pour a little on your spores and drink the rest - you'll feel better. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 assembly pictures posted
"Interesting, but that jumble of toroids on the rf board is just plain ugly. I like 'em neatly lined up like on my K2." I guess it's a matter of taste. I like something that looks like it was crafted with the care of human hands instead of everything being lined up perfectly by a heartless robot. It's amusing to me to think that the sales person that took my order for a K3 could be the same person who may have wound my toroids. It makes me feel like I'm getting a custom radio. I think the K3 looks really beautiful. Mine is a May 1st purchase so it can't be long now. Craig, thanks for the pictures, they provide a nice perspective on things to come. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 scanning
In my leisure time while designing a new rocket or mindlessly playing solitaire I like to scan the band. The K3 and K2 both have the scan muted as the default. With the K2 I made up several macros in MixW to scan various bands. In each case after I start to scan I have to stop scanning and hold down one of the function keys that have been pre-programmed to scan for the 2 second duration in order to get un-muted scan. As far as I can see in the new programming notes for the K3 there is no means to bypass holding down the scan button for 2 seconds to get an un-muted scan or any means to get a 2 second button push through a program command. I know that this is a little picky at this point but somewhere down the line would it be possible to either make a programming command for the 2 second button push or reverse the default scan mode in via a menu setting? Anxiously awaiting my K3, Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 mixer
That's a very interesting mixer. I've never seen video switching IC's used for anything other than SDR's as QSD's or QSE's. Is Elecraft the first to use a mixer of this type in a conventional radio? Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Re: size of radio limits?
It's not the content of the response that's impressive - it's the fact that you got one in the first place. This contributes to why so many people are willing to lay down their hard earned cash on a radio they have never seen. >From Charles > I do not accept. >From Wayne > giant phone bill, new son, cats, hair loss...WYSIWYG Tom, AK2B (Ok, I lied, I was more impressed by the content.) ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 shipping status update
I rest assured knowing the only other person who wants me to have this radio more than me is you. Take your time. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K3 height
Is the height of the K3 4 inches including the feet? Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Sherwood report and K3 agc
Marteinn Sverrisson TF3MA wrote: "If K2 sounds better than most modern rigs, then listen to the soundfiles on http://www.qslnet.de/member/df7tv/nc2030pn.html and compare the sounds of NC2030 and K2, in my opinion the NC2030 is far superior sounding under these conditions, compared to K2, judging from these recordings." Most people don't pay too much attention to the way a receiver sounds until they hear something truly better. In my last foray into ham radio in 2004 I purchased a Ten Tec Pegasus. I liked the fact that it could be controlled by a computer. At some point along the way I decided I wanted to hear what the "best" receivers sounded like. I put in an order for an Orion but was told they were back-ordered for several months. I didn't want to wait. The next thing down the line was the K2 and I figured that was close enough - from what I had heard. I built the QRP version and it sounded great. So, I thought I would set the Pegasus up for dual receive and use its 100 watts for TX and listen on the K2. Actually I wired up a switch so I could listen to the Pegasus in one ear and the K2 in the other. Geez, what a mistake! After a while I found that I didn't really need the 100 watts and sold the Pegasus. The NC2030 is a little gem. I built both versions and can tell you without a doubt it is an exceptionally clean and quiet sounding receiver. In fact all aspects of Dan Tayloe's masterpiece were carefully thought out. The transmitter also sounds excellent. The NC2030 wasn't intended for mass production but, rather, it seems to me, a labor of love. Elecraft radios are intended for mass production and, as a company; I believe their products are built pretty much the same way. How many companies of any type could you say that about these days? Is it July yet? Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] T shirt slogans
I just left a deposit for a K3. My T shirt will now say: K34ME! K24U? Tom, ak2b ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] T-shirt Slogans
K3 4 ME Tom, AK2B (I would make the 'E' the same as a backward '3') ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Announcing the Elecraft K3 Transceiver: 10/100W, 160-6m, Assembled or Kit,
Bah! K3, who needs it! I'm perfectly happy with my K2. Do you take PayPal? Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Buddistick or Buddipole?
Sorry, forgot to mention that I do use one elevated radial unwound from a kite winder to a pre-marked length with the end usually thrown over a bush. Tom, ak2b ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Buddistick or Buddipole?
I have a BuddiPole that is used mostly as a vertical. I tried the dipole setup and the antenna fell over and bent one of the telescoping whips. I'm sure with a longer mast and a guying system you can get excellent results. Being one that looks for the simple route, I decided I would stick with the vertical version since it is a lot easier to setup and take down. I also bought some three section shock-corded whips which are indestructible compared to the telescoping whips. The band-width will vary by band. On 20 meters I can cover pretty much the cw portion of the band using one arm, one coil, another arm and finally a shock-corded whip on top of it all. I don't use forty all that much so I can't tell you exactly what you can expect. It will depend on how much antenna length you can get in the air. There are longer versions of the shock-corded whips that will help. I usually pack the supplied bag with the above parts, my KX-1 and head for DX hill in Riverside Park, Manhattan. The arrangement works out quit well. I am always surprised at how well I can get out. Many times I've had QSO's with Western and Eastern Europe without effort. I usually find a fence post to bungi cord the mast to - and have at it. The setup takes just a few minutes. The Buddipole is versatile enough that it can adjust to a variety of circumstances and it is a very well built antenna. I suggest you go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Buddipole/ where you will have no problem getting specific answers to your questions. Many times, like on this list, you will get answers from the man himself :-). Tom, ak2b ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] W1 stand
I own most of the Elecraft Mini Kits and up until now I haven't found any need to put them in an enclosure. However, since I've built the W1 Power Meter - that has changed. The W1 is just too awkward to use as it is. Every time I used it I would look for a convenient place to lean it. Even then, it would somehow end up landing on one scary place or another. In my apartment there is a metal picture stand that is vertical and slanted back a little for easy viewing. Hmm, it was a little too big for the W1 since it was designed for a size 8 X 5 print. I went to Staples and found what they call a "slanted sign holder" 3.5" X 5" (Model 69401SUS (I couldn't find this number in their on-line store)). On the store receipt it said the SKU was 079916015552). Anyway it's made of clear Plexiglas and although a little too wide, makes for a fairly decent stand for the W1. If you mount the W1 so that the battery case bottoms out it will make the stand a little sturdier. Actually, I mounted mine a little too high and used rubber feet mounted on the bottom of the battery case. I used threaded plastic stand-offs at the top and another next to the left bnc connector since the bottom hole is too close to the angle of the stand. You might want to add extra weight to the base. Although this is not a perfect solution, it works for me. Tom, AK2B Oh, and as usual, the W1 is of excellent quality, simple to build and accurate. Par for Elecraft! ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] who does the work in QRP?
First of all, let me apologize right off the bat to any traumatized QRO station that might have been driven to excess drinking or required extra therapy as a result of a having a QSO with my QRP station. I envision a whole class of ham that was forced into early RF retirement caused by all the extra work involved in working low power stations. I only hope that their misery is offset by knowing the absolute joy of having worked them with low power equipment that I built with my own two hands. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: lead-free solder (plus bonus desoldering primer :)
I love tutorials that involve ham radio and beer. Why aren't there more of them? Merry Christmas, Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 and SoftRock40
"Has anyone done this?" Hi David, It's in German but, it's what you asked for: http://dj9cs.raisdorf.net/K2-Panorama.html Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Mini-Modules
I gladly welcome the new mini modules, particularly the step attenuator. It doesn't bother me in the slightest that they are not encased. I've noticed others have put a few of the kits in an Altoids tin. I just toss them in a drawer when I'm through with them. I have a whole collection. To me, they are indispensable. I like the fact that they are small, self contained; self powered and easily carried about from place to place. Not to mention that they represent some pretty sophisticated tools at a bargain price. I don't need a K3. Give me more mini-modules! :-). Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Wha'ts Wrong With Our Radios (WAS:NewProducts, Building
My K2 is connected to a computer which substantially increases its size. I have macros made up for MixW that cover most of the commands for the K2. I pretty much never touch the K2 except for the occasional gain adjustment. The radio is essentially the size of my LCD monitor. There are several radios out these days that you can hide away and never touch. Ah, you say, it’s the knobs I miss! Well, maybe some sort of flat panel with a bunch of actual and functional knobs and meters connected to a USB port to satisfy our tactile and visual needs. In fact, this sort of panel could be used with any computer controlled rig for now or the future. We could have designer panels to suit our personalities - more, bigger knobs, flashing lights, meters. Hmmm, I like the way I think. Tom, AK2B Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: What I don't understand is why we keep putting small gear in little rectangular boxes. We need a human sized panel for human sized knobs and buttons but that doesn't mean we need a BIG rig! Indeed, it can be very small and friendly on modern desks. Look at a modern "flat panel" computer or TV display. Why not a desk-top rig that is built like a thick version of one of those? Big and relatively thin? Stand it on a "foot" like the displays. Heatsink on the back, if needed, along with necessary connectors, and lots of space for controls on the front. The large panel area would allow the layout of the circuits to follow a logical path, with controls closely associated with the circuits they're associated with. If there's a really heavy part, like a big heat sink for the finals, put it down at the bottom at the "foot". You want the antenna connectors down there anyway. And no multiple layers of tightly packed PC boards to wade through when troubleshooting either! That's nothing new. It's how radios were built in the 1920's, 30's and at least through the 50's. Remember seeing pictures of those huge, long 1920-vintage broadcast-band receivers with a whole row of knobs across the front? Those were tuned-radio-frequency sets with a whole row of tubes amplifying the signal before it was detected (turned into audio). Each knob adjusted the tuning of the amplifier behind it. Parts were big, so the cabinet had to be pretty deep, but the first step in the design was to lay out the controls so they were close to the associated circuits. As superhets took over, fewer controls were needed to tune R.F. amplifiers and more controls were needed for the I.F. and audio stages, but the same basic layout remained, progressing from the antenna to the audio output. The form factor was constrained by the front panel and the unit was only as deep as needed by the bulk of the parts used. Smaller sets were often built right on the back of the "front panel" with no "chassis" at all, just a box to hold the front panel vertical and keep inquisitive fingers from breaking tubes or getting into high voltages. The logical evolution would have been for those to get thinner and thinner until modern solid state radios were simply a thick "front panel". Instead we kept the old rectangular form factor and reduced the size of the front panel and the controls! Wayne took a big step in the direction I'm suggesting with the KX1, putting the controls on the top of the box instead of the "front". The original rig had one main PCB behind the panel with the controls laid out near the associated circuits. Picture a 100 watt KX1 tilted up at a 45 degree angle with a base and having the same thickness but a panel size of, say, 14x18 inches (35X45 cm) with suitable knobs and meters... Ah... Meters...but that's another story... Ron AC7AC -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.394 / Virus Database: 268.7.0/346 - Release Date: 5/23/2006 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K2 Dual Recieve Plans - Comments Wanted
>John Huffman wrote: >I'd like to use my K2 with my Ten-Tec Pegasus in a dual receive setup. I >would listen with either the K2, the Pegasus, or both. I would transmit >with the Pegasus. John, I did precisely what you want to do with the same hardware and software. I referred to this message, http://www.ac6rm.net/mailarchive/html/elecraft-list/2005-11/msg00415.html from Don W3FPR and ran a mute line to an RCA jack mounted in one of the spare holes on the back of the K2. The Pegasus has a RCA jack on the back panel connected to an open collector transistor that is used to mute the K2. It worked very well without any ill effects from RF. I had a 3 position switch hooked to the headphone outputs of both receivers so that I could to listen to either receiver or both receivers, one in each ear piece. Eventually, I came to realize that I could work the same stations with the K2 without the 100 watts from the Pegasus and ended up selling the Pegasus. Tom, AK2B -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.385 / Virus Database: 268.2.3/281 - Release Date: 3/14/2006 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] (no subject)
>Fred - KT5X wrote: >OK, HOW I DID IT !!! >First, I made a tool, a heat shield. I made this out of a piece of tin from an >Altoids box. I used a set of relay holes on the circuit board to mark ... That was ingenious, Fred, you should have done a video. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Hakko 808 users ?
Bill, I went to http://www.n0ss.net for Hakko Help; lots of good advice. The 808 is a great tool - I look at it as a builders "undo" button. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K1 - Why Not?
>First I must emphasize that I am *not* an Elecraft junky. That's how it starts. I built the KX1 first and then the K2 and then the K1. Soon I looked around at all the other test gear that I bought from Elecraft and now I'm not too sure how much gear you can buy before qualifying as an Elecraft junky. >Question: just how good is the K1's receiver? Very good - better filters and I found the K1 a bit more sensitive. Of course this is really not the point, is it? I asked the very same question here pretty much convinced I was going to buy the K1 anyway. I don't regret it one bit. The K1 is a great little radio and I often use it just for a change of pace. The KX1, however, is the radio that goes with me most often. It's just too easy to take it along with my Par End-Fed antenna and use it on a whim if there is a little time to kill. If you use the attachable paddles you have the ultimate in portability and you can even use the KX1 while standing up. Building, of course, is half the fun. Good Luck. Tom, AK2B p.s. Order it with the back light kit ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] And the award for Mod of the Year goes to...
.Elecraft and N0SS for the K1 Backlight mod. Thanks, my K1 needed that. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Software for K2
>>"I have only heard good things about MixW. I would not like to program all the modes they support; I don't think the grey cells could stand it. Simon Brown" Simon, maybe you should give MixW a try. I haven't seen the need to "program all the modes they support". You can make mode specific macros if you want to but, you can move from mode to mode without really doing anything. The virtue is that you "can" tailor it to your own needs. >>"Would you send someone an invoice if you were to spend an afternoon helping them put up antennas?" >>"One of the great things about software is that it is written once, installed a thousand times. As a provider of free software I enjoy putting something back into the hobby, goodness knows I took enough out while starting off in 1973/1974." This is very generous of you. However, you as well as any software designer know the time and effort that goes into writing and distributing a product to the consumer. I would be more than willing to spend an afternoon with you putting up an antenna. I would not have the nerve to ask you to write me some free software anymore than I would ask you to design and build me a radio. There are now and have been plenty of creative people that have stuck their necks out in starting a business within our hobby. I would guess that this is a difficult way to make a buck and those who do it are entitled to be rewarded for their efforts. Tom, ak2b ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Software for K2
Craig, I like MixW. I have it set up where I can push the most important buttons for the K2 with macros. I mostly like the real time spectrum display. I would not want to do without it if I didn't have to. I like being able to "see" a little slice of the band while I'm tuning around. It also greatly enhances tuning a cw signal by allowing you to place it dead center of your filter passband. MixW will do almost anything you need although it takes a little more work than some of the others. The logging and contest macros are more than adequate for my needs. N4PY is also excellent for controlling a K2. You can try them all for free and I would advise doing so. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Excuses for Buying an Elecraft K1
Jim, I'm sold! What could be more convincing than? "To stave off Alzheimer's" and "If you have three kids, you can leave a radio to each - giving the K2 to your favorite". Also, "Saves you from the bar scene for another few weeks". For a moment there, I thought we knew each other. http://www.AL7FS.us/ Thanks to everyone who replied on and off the reflector. It appears there are several hams that have completed the Elecraft trifecta. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] K1
I've already built a K2 and KX1 and I am quite happy with them. Can someone give me a perfectly good excuse to build a K1? (...Please:-)) Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] RE: Separate Groups Would be a Mistake
I disagree! I think the need for another group is necessary for several of us. The group should be called Elecrafters Anonymous or EA for short. This would be a place for those of us who painfully wait for the latest product to come out or mindlessly make up pitiful excuses for the purchase of anything Elecraft, even if we have no use for it. This group would comfort those who after building their K2, KX1 or K1 (or all of the above) have suffered depression or withdrawal when it was discovered that building was more fun than operating. There would finally be an outlet for those wanting a K3. Ok, I'll be the first. Hello, my name is Tom and I'm addicted to Elecraft. It all started with an ad for a KX1. Everything was fine at first... AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] OT: FCC Amateur Radio Database question
John, I downloaded one of the daily files just to test(it was small). After un-zipping them: Rename EN.dat to EN.txt Make a new empty DB in Access Go to File/Get External Data/Import (select "text files") Load EN.txt Click the "Delimited" button Click "Advanced" Change the Field Delimiter to "|" (shift backslash) Ok Finish Mind you, I just did this out of curiosity. It should be enough to give you a start. Tom AK2B John wrote I have downloaded the FCC's Amateur Radio Database. It came down as 1 ZIP'd file and expanded into 9 dat files. I would like to put it on a CD and use ACCESS to search it but I need some info about the files and how they are structured. I used FTP and searched around on the FCC's drive but I wasn't able to come up with any description of the database. So I guess I am asking if anyone has any info on how the database is laid out, how it is delimited, how long the fields are, what info is in each of the files, and stuff like that. Can anyone help? -- John K7SVV ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] PLL Reference Oscillator problem
I recently had the following problem with the PLL Reference Oscillator: When the circuit was oscillating I could see it on a scope at the source of Q19 and at the junction of RFC14 and R20. When it is oscillating (after pushing Band-) the voltage is about 1.3 volts (at RFC14 and R20) and changes to 2.6 volts when Band+ is pushed and then stops oscillating. The source of the problem turned out to be the wrong core used for RFC14. I am posting this problem and cure so that if someone else has a similar problem they will be able to find it here on the reflector with a simple search. I would like to thank Gary, AB7MY, for his help. I would imagine that Gary is such an asset to Elecraft that they reward him by bringing him to work in a stretch limousine and provide him with a scantily clad masseuse for a post lunch massage to ease the stress from dealing with morons like myself. Tom, AK2B ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] N4PY Software gets me TX9
John, I click and hold on the "REV" button which will give you VFO B and allow you to tune to where you want. Releasing "REV" will put you back to split mode. This is a little faster and sometimes can make the difference. I use this on my Pegasus (I'm still building my K2) and assume It will work the same way on the K2. Tom, AK2B "Finally I hit on the right combination. Use a narrow filter on VFO A to be sure I could hear him clearly. Use a wide filter on VFO B to listen to the pileup. Then, as soon as he finishes with one QSO, click the A/B button on the N4PY software so you are listening to the pileup. Quickly search for a quiet hole in the mob, tune VFO B there, click A/B again, and start sending your call." ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
