Re: [Elecraft] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
Seems to me Elecraft already has a great linear DC supply: It's built into the KPA500. Repackage it as a stand-alone, done. 73, Mike, KW1ND Knoxville, TN __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I must say I have a number of projects I would rather have Elecraft engineering work on rather than built yet another power supply. For example: #1: Direct digital computer I/O for the K3, eliminating all the A/D and D/A conversions now required between the DSP and the computer. #2: Full MacIntosh support for all utilities. [And Jim (W4ATK), I will try Crossover when I am up to bleeping with my computer instead of doing things like building a paddle so I can try to become CW competent. Thanks for your offer of assistance, I may be in touch some day.] On 9/18/12 at 16:05, c-haw...@illinois.edu (hawley, charles j jr) wrote: If I need to replace the Icom supply I got at the electronics flea market, the Astron supplies have gotten really good press on this list. Cheers - Bill, AE6JV --- Bill Frantz|We used to quip that password is the most common 408-356-8506 | password. Now it's 'password1.' Who said users haven't www.pwpconsult.com | learned anything about security? -- Bruce Schneier __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
Alan Bloom wrote: I'm not sure what you mean about the regulator not being quiet. The LM723 is a simple linear I.C.; no switching noise and no acoustical noise. ... It's true that the 723 is a really ancient IC - it was designed back in the 70's I believe. Ancient is not always bad, because the 723 was way ahead of its time. The 723 survived the introduction of convenient 'drop-in' regulator ICs like the 7812 and 317 because that first generation of 3-pin regulators had inferior performance in critical applications. Only in more recent years have more modern 3-pin and 5-pin regulators moved ahead of the ancient 723. When production lines changed over to lead-free manufacturing processes, many of those very early ICs were discontinued. The 723 is one of the few that 'made the cut' because there is still nothing else quite like it. It is also true that there are some pitfalls with using it that can trap the unwary. But with proper design it can be made to work just fine. The 723 is not a plug-and-play circuit block; it's really a 'kit of parts' on a chip, with all of its functions - voltage reference, op-amp, compensation - accessible on separate pins. These functions can be configured in several different ways, which means that the 723 will always require some good old 1970s-style analog circuit design... which includes plenty of opportunities for the designer to make mistakes. The classic reference for this style of detailed, up-close circuit design is 'The Art of Electronics' by Horowitz and Hill - one of the few college-level engineering texts that belongs on the workbench as well. Highly recommended. -- 73 from Ian GM3SEK http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I see no need for Elecraft to produce such a simple and mass produced product from all over the world for prices that start at dirt cheap and go up. It would be a very limited market for sure and hams like myself sometimes want a better product for an application that we have. There are power supplies available that top quality and noise free if a person wants to purchase one. I'm one who thinks that the supplies should be out of the way for the most part my VS supplies I do like to keep an eye on to make sure nothing has changed. I have owned several different supplies in the past and now have settled on 4 that I have kept 2 Samlex a 1223 and a 1235 one is a spare and one is used on my MicroHAM devices as some need connections to a power supply other than the one radios are connected to. The other 2 are both Astron a RS and a VS-70-M's that supply the rest of the shack and 2 amps. With all these supplies there are no supply noise at all the Samlex is a good supply and a QST rated best buy. You can never go wrong with an Astron Linear Supply in the proper size for your shack. If you're getting hum you need to do some checking on your install I would think I have NONE with any of mine on my 2 K3's a K2, FTDX-5000MP or an SRR-IQ for just a few. 73, Fred/N0AZZ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of N4QS Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2012 5:33 PM To: Joe Subich, W4TV; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion) I for one would like to see Elecraft produce a power supply optimized for the K3 and matching Elecraft accessories. For years I owned a Kenwood PS-50 power supply and regretted selling it a few years ago. It was rock solid and absolutely quite and yet matched my TS850S. I currently own two Astron RS-35 power supplies, but they do not have the fit and finish of the Kenwood. Any yes, both of mine have a small but noticeable amount of hum. The Kenwood PS-50 fit in an enclosure that is just slightly larger than the P3. I am sure that Elecraft would ensure top notch rf filtering, light weight and with plenty of auxilliary outputs for running various Elecraft devices including the KRC2, P3 and KAT500. See this link: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamps/ps50.html Dave, N4QS - Original Message - From: Joe Subich, W4TV li...@subich.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2012 4:06 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion) I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. *IF* Elecraft were to produce a power supply, the most economical solution would be to use a modular OEM switchers that already has UL, CE, CSA, etc. certifications and wrap it in an Elecraft case with IEC cord, additional filtering, external power switch, and maybe metering. OEM supplies - available in many quality levels, form factors and price points - are used by several other manufacturers as the core of their matching (or internal) power supply offerings. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 9/18/2012 4:44 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: In my opinion, power supplies should be relegated to something like the AC receptacle on the wall or the 12 volt battery under the hood of an automobile. It should do its thing, but not be obvious. IMHO the place for a power supply is on the floor under the operating desk (or workbench). No need for meters on the supply itself, I have measurement stuff above the tabletop. I use an Astron 35 linear at the operating position and have an Astron SS-30 switcher at the workbench (along with several other lower current supplies). There are no 13.8 volt power supplies above the desktop - If I need other voltages, yes, I do have a +/- 15 volt supply along with +5V on the workbench along with a variable voltage positive supply for special needs - but I don't think those are relevant for powering the K2, K3, or KX3. Bottom line, power supplies are on the floor out of the way and treated just as an energy source. So, my answer to your question is NO. The RigRunner does sit on the desktop with fuses to match the wire sizes exiting from it. I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. I would put this in the it would be nice -- but bucket. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/18/2012 10:27 AM, rich kennedy wrote: How do Elecraft users feel about
Re: [Elecraft] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I may have missed it if anyone else made this suggestion..I would like to be able to purchase a P3-size empty case into which I could install a switching supply board such as an Astron SS-30, with some additional filtering, in order to have a matching supply for my K3 Perhaps the blank boxes will become available in the future as was done with the K2 cabinet. John __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
On Sep 19, 2012, at 9:09, Ian White GM3SEK gm3...@ifwtech.co.uk wrote: The classic reference for this style of detailed, up-close circuit design is 'The Art of Electronics' by Horowitz and Hill - one of the few college-level engineering texts that belongs on the workbench as well. Highly recommended. I heartily agree. The Art of Electronics is worth it's weight in gold. Comprehensive and surprisingly accessible for the technical depth. Alan K2ACK Sent from my mobile device. __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I would not like to see Elecraft spend it's limited engineering resources designing a power supply either. There are literally hundreds of options available. I like the idea of Elecraft offering K3, P3 and W2 blank cases. This could probably be done with little or no engineering effort on Elecraft's partjust talk to the sheet metal vendor and have them do the documentation. Maybe offer front and top panel options like a speaker grill and ventilation slots for those that want to build matching K3 speakers or a housing for their power supply. On 9/19/2012 8:19 AM, n...@speakeasy.net wrote: I may have missed it if anyone else made this suggestion..I would like to be able to purchase a P3-size empty case into which I could install a switching supply board such as an Astron SS-30, with some additional filtering, in order to have a matching supply for my K3 Perhaps the blank boxes will become available in the future as was done with the K2 cabinet. John __ 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 -- 73, Gary K9GS Greater Milwaukee DX Association: http://www.gmdxa.org Society of Midwest Contesters: http://www.w9smc.com CW Ops #1032 http://www.cwops.org __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I like the idea of Elecraft offering K3, P3 and W2 blank cases. speaker grill and ventilation slots i would buy yes. bill ny9h __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
The New Elecraft D3 power supply. Features: - Software defined power supply. - Software upgrades via the web. - Microprocessor controlled voltage and current meters with LED bar graph. - RS232 connection to K3 so you can monitor you current and power draw with your PC. - Automatically on/off via PC. - DSP ripple filter to eliminate any ripple on the DC. Coming soon the DX3 power supply for the KX3 and a new BX3 battery. Sorry, I just could not help myself. I expect only the best from Elecraft, so I can't imagine they would design a power supply without all the bells and whistles. Ken KE3C __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
How do Elecraft users feel about the possible addition of a high-quality DC power supply that matches both the physical dimensions and veneer of the existing K-Line? The power supply could even be sized to set above/below the new KAT500 and should, IMHO, have multiple DC outlets such as Powerpoles® and screw lugs. I’d be willing to pay a premium for a quiet DC power supply with very low emission characteristics. Thanks, 73, Rich, K3VAT __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I think that is a great idea. My current power supply been around a while and is Noisy. 73 Paul kc2nyu __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
Depending on cost, I'd bite, and it would be a nice addition to the K-line. I have picked through several switchers, none of which were dead RF quiet. I ended up defaulting to my Xantrex HPD 30-10 lab supply, which is a hybrid switching front-end/linear tracking output regulator. It is dead RF quiet, but I am a bit scared to leave a supply that can output above 15 volts on my Elecraft. I'd also like to free that supply back up for other uses. Being linear regulators, the Astron supplies are probably pretty RF quiet, but for what they cost they are big and can be acoustically noisy (I have heard several buzzing transformers), not to mention containing antiquated circuitry. LM723 regulators are not the quietest nor most stable linear reg ICs available these days, and have limited regulation bandwidth in stable implementations. Considering these factors i have been reticent to buy one. I bet Elecraft can outdo what is available in a pretty little matching package. Howie - WA4PSC __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
That seems a good idea except for two reasons: 1. It wouldn't work for me unless it could handle 100 amps. I have 2m and 70cm RF amps that require 50 or 60 amps and I have just about finished replacing all of my 12v wall warts with a buss that runs them with power from that same 13.8v PS that supplies the KLine. That PS also trickle charges three large Server Room backup batteries that kick in when there is a power outage. 2. I doubt Elecraft would want to get into that business due to the already stiff competition in that area of manufacture. On Tue, 18 Sep 2012 07:27:51 -0700 (PDT), rich kennedy astro_maryl...@yahoo.com wrote: How do Elecraft users feel about the possible addition of a high-quality DC power supply that matches both the physical dimensions and veneer of the existing K-Line? The power supply could even be sized to set above/below the new KAT500 and should, IMHO, have multiple DC outlets such as Powerpoles® and screw lugs. Id be willing to pay a premium for a quiet DC power supply with very low emission characteristics. Thanks, 73, Rich, K3VAT __ 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 Amateur Radio Operator N5GE ARRL Lifetime Member QCWA Lifetime Member __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
In my opinion, power supplies should be relegated to something like the AC receptacle on the wall or the 12 volt battery under the hood of an automobile. It should do its thing, but not be obvious. IMHO the place for a power supply is on the floor under the operating desk (or workbench). No need for meters on the supply itself, I have measurement stuff above the tabletop. I use an Astron 35 linear at the operating position and have an Astron SS-30 switcher at the workbench (along with several other lower current supplies). There are no 13.8 volt power supplies above the desktop - If I need other voltages, yes, I do have a +/- 15 volt supply along with +5V on the workbench along with a variable voltage positive supply for special needs - but I don't think those are relevant for powering the K2, K3, or KX3. Bottom line, power supplies are on the floor out of the way and treated just as an energy source. So, my answer to your question is NO. The RigRunner does sit on the desktop with fuses to match the wire sizes exiting from it. I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. I would put this in the it would be nice -- but bucket. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/18/2012 10:27 AM, rich kennedy wrote: How do Elecraft users feel about the possible addition of a high-quality DC power supply that matches both the physical dimensions and veneer of the existing K-Line? The power supply could even be sized to set above/below the new KAT500 and should, IMHO, have multiple DC outlets such as Powerpoles® and screw lugs. I’d be willing to pay a premium for a quiet DC power supply with very low emission characteristics. Thanks, 73, Rich, K3VAT __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. *IF* Elecraft were to produce a power supply, the most economical solution would be to use a modular OEM switchers that already has UL, CE, CSA, etc. certifications and wrap it in an Elecraft case with IEC cord, additional filtering, external power switch, and maybe metering. OEM supplies - available in many quality levels, form factors and price points - are used by several other manufacturers as the core of their matching (or internal) power supply offerings. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 9/18/2012 4:44 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: In my opinion, power supplies should be relegated to something like the AC receptacle on the wall or the 12 volt battery under the hood of an automobile. It should do its thing, but not be obvious. IMHO the place for a power supply is on the floor under the operating desk (or workbench). No need for meters on the supply itself, I have measurement stuff above the tabletop. I use an Astron 35 linear at the operating position and have an Astron SS-30 switcher at the workbench (along with several other lower current supplies). There are no 13.8 volt power supplies above the desktop - If I need other voltages, yes, I do have a +/- 15 volt supply along with +5V on the workbench along with a variable voltage positive supply for special needs - but I don't think those are relevant for powering the K2, K3, or KX3. Bottom line, power supplies are on the floor out of the way and treated just as an energy source. So, my answer to your question is NO. The RigRunner does sit on the desktop with fuses to match the wire sizes exiting from it. I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. I would put this in the it would be nice -- but bucket. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/18/2012 10:27 AM, rich kennedy wrote: How do Elecraft users feel about the possible addition of a high-quality DC power supply that matches both the physical dimensions and veneer of the existing K-Line? The power supply could even be sized to set above/below the new KAT500 and should, IMHO, have multiple DC outlets such as Powerpoles® and screw lugs. I’d be willing to pay a premium for a quiet DC power supply with very low emission characteristics. Thanks, 73, Rich, K3VAT __ 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 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I guess it depends upon which Astron model you are working with. I've worked with a great many RS and RM Astron supplies in Ham and Commercial systems over the years and have never encountered one that made more than a very, very quiet hum. I'm not sure what you mean about the regulator not being quiet. The LM723 is a simple linear I.C.; no switching noise and no acoustical noise. The popular RS and RM series have both automatic over-voltage and over-current shut-down that protects both the power supply and any equipment connected to it. In decades of use working with a great number of Astron supplies - many of which are in 24/7 service operating commercial equipment - I've yet to see a regulator failure - or any Astron failure for that matter. I'm not suggesting that they won't fail, but I've yet to see it happen in, conservatively, tens of thousands of operating hours. My station Astron resides on a shelf out of the way under the operating table so having a matching appearance with the rest of the K-line is not an issue for me. 73, Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Being linear regulators, the Astron supplies are probably pretty RF quiet, but for what they cost they are big and can be acoustically noisy (I have heard several buzzing transformers), not to mention containing antiquated circuitry. LM723 regulators are not the quietest nor most stable linear reg ICs available these days, and have limited regulation bandwidth in stable implementations. Considering these factors i have been reticent to buy one. I bet Elecraft can outdo what is available in a pretty little matching package. Howie - WA4PSC __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I'd like to second Don's comments. Often the difference between a noisy power supply and a quiet one is the separation of only a few feet. The idea place for the supply is on the floor away from the receiver and freeing desktop space. I have mine paralleled with a storage battery too. That saves the QSO when the power fails (assuming I can operate in the dark). Don mentioned certifications for each country. Don't forget the power source is often different from country to country (50/60 hertz and 120/240 vac) or even within the country (look at Japan). Building a supply that meets all these requirements adds expense. Look at the issues an internal power supply causes in the KPA500 even without the concerns of interfering with a receiver. 73, Fred, AE6QL -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2012 1:44 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion) In my opinion, power supplies should be relegated to something like the AC receptacle on the wall or the 12 volt battery under the hood of an automobile. It should do its thing, but not be obvious. IMHO the place for a power supply is on the floor under the operating desk (or workbench). No need for meters on the supply itself, I have measurement stuff above the tabletop. I use an Astron 35 linear at the operating position and have an Astron SS-30 switcher at the workbench (along with several other lower current supplies). There are no 13.8 volt power supplies above the desktop - If I need other voltages, yes, I do have a +/- 15 volt supply along with +5V on the workbench along with a variable voltage positive supply for special needs - but I don't think those are relevant for powering the K2, K3, or KX3. Bottom line, power supplies are on the floor out of the way and treated just as an energy source. So, my answer to your question is NO. The RigRunner does sit on the desktop with fuses to match the wire sizes exiting from it. I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. I would put this in the it would be nice -- but bucket. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/18/2012 10:27 AM, rich kennedy wrote: How do Elecraft users feel about the possible addition of a high-quality DC power supply that matches both the physical dimensions and veneer of the existing K-Line? The power supply could even be sized to set above/below the new KAT500 and should, IMHO, have multiple DC outlets such as Powerpoles® and screw lugs. I’d be willing to pay a premium for a quiet DC power supply with very low emission characteristics. Thanks, 73, Rich, K3VAT __ 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 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
On Tue, 2012-09-18 at 14:14 -0700, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: ... I'm not sure what you mean about the regulator not being quiet. The LM723 is a simple linear I.C.; no switching noise and no acoustical noise. ... It's true that the 723 is a really ancient IC - it was designed back in the 70's I believe. It is also true that there are some pitfalls with using it that can trap the unwary. But with proper design it can be made to work just fine. Alan N1AL __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I for one would like to see Elecraft produce a power supply optimized for the K3 and matching Elecraft accessories. For years I owned a Kenwood PS-50 power supply and regretted selling it a few years ago. It was rock solid and absolutely quite and yet matched my TS850S. I currently own two Astron RS-35 power supplies, but they do not have the fit and finish of the Kenwood. Any yes, both of mine have a small but noticeable amount of hum. The Kenwood PS-50 fit in an enclosure that is just slightly larger than the P3. I am sure that Elecraft would ensure top notch rf filtering, light weight and with plenty of auxilliary outputs for running various Elecraft devices including the KRC2, P3 and KAT500. See this link: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamps/ps50.html Dave, N4QS - Original Message - From: Joe Subich, W4TV li...@subich.com To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2012 4:06 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion) I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. *IF* Elecraft were to produce a power supply, the most economical solution would be to use a modular OEM switchers that already has UL, CE, CSA, etc. certifications and wrap it in an Elecraft case with IEC cord, additional filtering, external power switch, and maybe metering. OEM supplies - available in many quality levels, form factors and price points - are used by several other manufacturers as the core of their matching (or internal) power supply offerings. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 9/18/2012 4:44 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: In my opinion, power supplies should be relegated to something like the AC receptacle on the wall or the 12 volt battery under the hood of an automobile. It should do its thing, but not be obvious. IMHO the place for a power supply is on the floor under the operating desk (or workbench). No need for meters on the supply itself, I have measurement stuff above the tabletop. I use an Astron 35 linear at the operating position and have an Astron SS-30 switcher at the workbench (along with several other lower current supplies). There are no 13.8 volt power supplies above the desktop - If I need other voltages, yes, I do have a +/- 15 volt supply along with +5V on the workbench along with a variable voltage positive supply for special needs - but I don't think those are relevant for powering the K2, K3, or KX3. Bottom line, power supplies are on the floor out of the way and treated just as an energy source. So, my answer to your question is NO. The RigRunner does sit on the desktop with fuses to match the wire sizes exiting from it. I do not think it is in the best interests of Elecraft to attempt a power supply design given that it would require UL compliance certification (as well as other countries certification) which can be an expensive process for a power supply that would likely have a volume of less than 10,000 units even at product life end. I would put this in the it would be nice -- but bucket. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/18/2012 10:27 AM, rich kennedy wrote: How do Elecraft users feel about the possible addition of a high-quality DC power supply that matches both the physical dimensions and veneer of the existing K-Line? The power supply could even be sized to set above/below the new KAT500 and should, IMHO, have multiple DC outlets such as Powerpoles® and screw lugs. I’d be willing to pay a premium for a quiet DC power supply with very low emission characteristics. Thanks, 73, Rich, K3VAT __ 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 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 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
Regarding the certifications for mains power equipment running off of various mains circuits in various countries, don't forget that Elecraft has already done that with the KPA500. 73 Ron AC7AC -Original Message- ...Don mentioned certifications for each country. Don't forget the power source is often different from country to country (50/60 hertz and 120/240 vac) or even within the country (look at Japan). Building a supply that meets all these requirements adds expense. Look at the issues an internal power supply causes in the KPA500 even without the concerns of interfering with a receiver. 73, Fred, AE6QL __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
I've fixed two Astrons for friends. One had a burned-out IC and the other had a damaged board where the capacitor mounting screws had loosened and generated heat. Both failed without producing overvoltage. I have one that I've been using for perhaps 15 years with no problems. On 9/18/12 2:14 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: I guess it depends upon which Astron model you are working with. I've worked with a great many RS and RM Astron supplies in Ham and Commercial systems over the years and have never encountered one that made more than a very, very quiet hum. I'm not sure what you mean about the regulator not being quiet. The LM723 is a simple linear I.C.; no switching noise and no acoustical noise. The popular RS and RM series have both automatic over-voltage and over-current shut-down that protects both the power supply and any equipment connected to it. In decades of use working with a great number of Astron supplies - many of which are in 24/7 service operating commercial equipment - I've yet to see a regulator failure - or any Astron failure for that matter. I'm not suggesting that they won't fail, but I've yet to see it happen in, conservatively, tens of thousands of operating hours. My station Astron resides on a shelf out of the way under the operating table so having a matching appearance with the rest of the K-line is not an issue for me. 73, Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Being linear regulators, the Astron supplies are probably pretty RF quiet, but for what they cost they are big and can be acoustically noisy (I have heard several buzzing transformers), not to mention containing antiquated circuitry. LM723 regulators are not the quietest nor most stable linear reg ICs available these days, and have limited regulation bandwidth in stable implementations. Considering these factors i have been reticent to buy one. I bet Elecraft can outdo what is available in a pretty little matching package. Howie - WA4PSC -- Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ __ 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] K-Line Addition - DC Power Supply (Suggestion)
The Astron supplies usually have a crowbar on the output which shorts the output if the voltage rises above 15 Volts. Sent from my iPad On Sep 18, 2012, at 5:51 PM, Vic, K2VCO k2vco@gmail.com wrote: I've fixed two Astrons for friends. One had a burned-out IC and the other had a damaged board where the capacitor mounting screws had loosened and generated heat. Both failed without producing overvoltage. I have one that I've been using for perhaps 15 years with no problems. On 9/18/12 2:14 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: I guess it depends upon which Astron model you are working with. I've worked with a great many RS and RM Astron supplies in Ham and Commercial systems over the years and have never encountered one that made more than a very, very quiet hum. I'm not sure what you mean about the regulator not being quiet. The LM723 is a simple linear I.C.; no switching noise and no acoustical noise. The popular RS and RM series have both automatic over-voltage and over-current shut-down that protects both the power supply and any equipment connected to it. In decades of use working with a great number of Astron supplies - many of which are in 24/7 service operating commercial equipment - I've yet to see a regulator failure - or any Astron failure for that matter. I'm not suggesting that they won't fail, but I've yet to see it happen in, conservatively, tens of thousands of operating hours. My station Astron resides on a shelf out of the way under the operating table so having a matching appearance with the rest of the K-line is not an issue for me. 73, Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Being linear regulators, the Astron supplies are probably pretty RF quiet, but for what they cost they are big and can be acoustically noisy (I have heard several buzzing transformers), not to mention containing antiquated circuitry. LM723 regulators are not the quietest nor most stable linear reg ICs available these days, and have limited regulation bandwidth in stable implementations. Considering these factors i have been reticent to buy one. I bet Elecraft can outdo what is available in a pretty little matching package. Howie - WA4PSC -- Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ __ 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 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
