Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> Just to make sure I understand you, the AM filter is only 
> required if one desires to transmit in AM or use ESSB.  
> Otherwise, AM reception like SW can still be piped through 
> the 13KHz FM filter?  

Correct, I use the FM filter for listening to AM broadcast or 
SWL on a fairly regular basis. 

> How does the audio of AM SW sound going through the FM 
> filter?  Bandwidth is obviously wider, so I'm assuming 
> higher fidelity?

Somewhat higher fidelity.  The K3's DSP has a fairly sharp 
cutoff at 4200 Hz so you will never get more than that but 
the FM filter allows the full 4.5 KHz where the AM filter 
starts to roll off at 3 KHz but still has some audio response 
down the filter skirts.  I hope that someday Elecraft will 
"open up" the audio in AM so we can hear 5.5 or 6 KHz which 
as good as it gets these days. 

The whole point is that most of the other up conversion radios 
have 20 or even 30 KHz wide first IF filters.  There's not 
much reason to deal with both the FM and AM filters ... most 
AM work is not that critical with regard to bandwidth at 
the first IF.  The DSP sets the ultimate response in any case. 

73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV 
  


> -Original Message-
> From: James Sarte [mailto:kc2...@gmail.com] 
> Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 9:17 PM
> To: li...@subich.com; 'KC2UEE'; 'Rick Tavan N6XI'
> Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?
> 
> 
> Hi Joe,
> 
> Just to make sure I understand you, the AM filter is only 
> required if one desires to transmit in AM or use ESSB.  
> Otherwise, AM reception like SW can still be piped through 
> the 13KHz FM filter?  
> 
> How does the audio of AM SW sound going through the FM 
> filter?  Bandwidth is obviously wider, so I'm assuming higher 
> fidelity?
> 
> 73,
> James KC2UEE
> 
> -Original Message-
> From: Joe Subich, W4TV [mailto:li...@subich.com] 
> Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 7:40 PM
> To: 'KC2UEE'; 'Rick Tavan N6XI'
> Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?
> 
> 
> > As for the 6KHz AM filter, to my understanding In order to
> > receive and transmit AM, I will need this filter for sure. 
> > Just not sure how many I'll need, now that I only plan to 
> > purchase one general coverage module.
> 
> No, you only need the AM filter if you plan to TRANSMIT AM 
> or ESSB and then only because Elecraft will not enable AM 
> and ESSB transmit with the FM filter.  
> 
> I would specifically not bother with the AM filter in the 
> subreceiver - nor would I get the FM filter for the subRX 
> unless I were also adding the general coverage front-end 
> filter.   
> 
> If Elecraft would enable AM and ESSB transmit with the FM 
> filter, my suggestions would be FM, 2.7, 400 and 200 in the 
> main receiver with FM, 2.7 and 400 in the subreceiver.  A 
> 1.5 or 1.8 KHz narrow SSB filter can be added later if you 
> feel the need for a high performance option for contesting. 
> 
> 73, 
> 
>... Joe, W4TV 
>   
> 
> 
> > -Original Message-
> > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
> > [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of KC2UEE
> > Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 5:48 PM
> > To: Rick Tavan N6XI
> > Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?
> > 
> > 
> > Thank you Rick for your insight.  I'll look closer into my
> > filter and module choices, and perhaps save a bit of money in 
> > the process.
> > 
> > After looking at the filter plots (didn't see any for the
> > 5-poles though), I'll probably end up with the following:
> > 
> > 13KHz FM filter - main only (will use for 10m FM transmit
> > also) 6KHz AM filter - (I'm tempted to buy 2, one for the 
> > main and one for the sub... I'll probably put the gen 
> > coverage module in the sub) 2.7KHz 5-pole; 1 in the main and 
> > 1 in the sub. 500 Hz 5 pole - main only 250 Hz 8 pole - main only
> > 
> > I'm mostly a SSB and 10m FM guy (local repeaters), but also
> > do a bit of PSK31 and RTTY when the mood strikes me.  How 
> > does this arrangement sound at present?  As for the 6KHz AM 
> > filter, to my understanding In order to receive and transmit 
> > AM, I will need this filter for sure. Just not sure how many 
> > I'll need, now that I only plan to purchase one general 
> > coverage module.  I'm not really sure which receiver would be 
> > best suited for general coverage as well.
> > 
> > 73,
> > James KC2UEE
> 

Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[James Sarte]

Hi Joe,

Just to make sure I understand you, the AM filter is only required if one
desires to transmit in AM or use ESSB.  Otherwise, AM reception like SW can
still be piped through the 13KHz FM filter?  

How does the audio of AM SW sound going through the FM filter?  Bandwidth is
obviously wider, so I'm assuming higher fidelity?

73,
James KC2UEE

-Original Message-
From: Joe Subich, W4TV [mailto:li...@subich.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 7:40 PM
To: 'KC2UEE'; 'Rick Tavan N6XI'
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?


> As for the 6KHz AM filter, to my understanding In order to 
> receive and transmit AM, I will need this filter for sure. 
> Just not sure how many I'll need, now that I only plan to 
> purchase one general coverage module.

No, you only need the AM filter if you plan to TRANSMIT AM 
or ESSB and then only because Elecraft will not enable AM 
and ESSB transmit with the FM filter.  

I would specifically not bother with the AM filter in the 
subreceiver - nor would I get the FM filter for the subRX 
unless I were also adding the general coverage front-end 
filter.   

If Elecraft would enable AM and ESSB transmit with the FM 
filter, my suggestions would be FM, 2.7, 400 and 200 in the 
main receiver with FM, 2.7 and 400 in the subreceiver.  A 
1.5 or 1.8 KHz narrow SSB filter can be added later if you 
feel the need for a high performance option for contesting. 

73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV 
  


> -Original Message-
> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
> [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of KC2UEE
> Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 5:48 PM
> To: Rick Tavan N6XI
> Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?
> 
> 
> Thank you Rick for your insight.  I'll look closer into my 
> filter and module choices, and perhaps save a bit of money in 
> the process.
> 
> After looking at the filter plots (didn't see any for the 
> 5-poles though), I'll probably end up with the following:
> 
> 13KHz FM filter - main only (will use for 10m FM transmit 
> also) 6KHz AM filter - (I'm tempted to buy 2, one for the 
> main and one for the sub... I'll probably put the gen 
> coverage module in the sub) 2.7KHz 5-pole; 1 in the main and 
> 1 in the sub. 500 Hz 5 pole - main only 250 Hz 8 pole - main only
> 
> I'm mostly a SSB and 10m FM guy (local repeaters), but also 
> do a bit of PSK31 and RTTY when the mood strikes me.  How 
> does this arrangement sound at present?  As for the 6KHz AM 
> filter, to my understanding In order to receive and transmit 
> AM, I will need this filter for sure. Just not sure how many 
> I'll need, now that I only plan to purchase one general 
> coverage module.  I'm not really sure which receiver would be 
> best suited for general coverage as well.
> 
> 73,
> James KC2UEE
> 
> 
> 
> On Tue, Feb 10, 2009 at 4:59 PM, Rick Tavan N6XI 
>  wrote:
> > With only one receiver you can only hear one band at a 
> time. With the 
> > new firmware, however, you can set the two VFOs to 
> different bands and 
> > flip between them using the A/B switch. I don't think 
> cross-band SPLIT 
> > will be available at first, if ever.
> >
> > I use my sub-rx to monitor both a DX station and its split 
> frequency 
> > pileup at the same time. Many others are using it for diversity 
> > reception with two antennas. I plan to do that once I have a better 
> > filter complement.
> >
> > Unless you plan to listen to two broadcast stations at the 
> same time, 
> > I don't see any reason to put a general coverage bandpass filter in 
> > both receivers. Put one in the one receiver you intend to use for 
> > SWLing.
> >
> > I don't think it's prudent to have both the 250 and 400 Hz filters. 
> > The actual width of the 250 is wider and the actual width 
> of the 400 
> > is narrower so the two end up being very close to each other. If I 
> > felt a need for something narrower than my 400, which I 
> don't for my 
> > operating, I would get the 200. The 250 and the 500 might also be a 
> > reasonable choice.
> >
> > I think the 200 is a tad narrow for 170 Hz RTTY but the 250 
> is fine. 
> > However, I'm guessing as I have only a little RTTY experience.
> >
> > Unless you need to transmit AM, you probably don't need the 
> 6 KHz. I 
> > have one and it works fine but I'd just as soon use the 13 for AM 
> > SWLing. I'll probably sell my 6. YMMV, especially if SWLing 
> on a band 
> > full of very loud BC stations (S9+40 +) is important to you.

Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> As for the 6KHz AM filter, to my understanding In order to 
> receive and transmit AM, I will need this filter for sure. 
> Just not sure how many I'll need, now that I only plan to 
> purchase one general coverage module.

No, you only need the AM filter if you plan to TRANSMIT AM 
or ESSB and then only because Elecraft will not enable AM 
and ESSB transmit with the FM filter.  

I would specifically not bother with the AM filter in the 
subreceiver - nor would I get the FM filter for the subRX 
unless I were also adding the general coverage front-end 
filter.   

If Elecraft would enable AM and ESSB transmit with the FM 
filter, my suggestions would be FM, 2.7, 400 and 200 in the 
main receiver with FM, 2.7 and 400 in the subreceiver.  A 
1.5 or 1.8 KHz narrow SSB filter can be added later if you 
feel the need for a high performance option for contesting. 

73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV 
  


> -Original Message-
> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
> [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of KC2UEE
> Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 5:48 PM
> To: Rick Tavan N6XI
> Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?
> 
> 
> Thank you Rick for your insight.  I'll look closer into my 
> filter and module choices, and perhaps save a bit of money in 
> the process.
> 
> After looking at the filter plots (didn't see any for the 
> 5-poles though), I'll probably end up with the following:
> 
> 13KHz FM filter - main only (will use for 10m FM transmit 
> also) 6KHz AM filter - (I'm tempted to buy 2, one for the 
> main and one for the sub... I'll probably put the gen 
> coverage module in the sub) 2.7KHz 5-pole; 1 in the main and 
> 1 in the sub. 500 Hz 5 pole - main only 250 Hz 8 pole - main only
> 
> I'm mostly a SSB and 10m FM guy (local repeaters), but also 
> do a bit of PSK31 and RTTY when the mood strikes me.  How 
> does this arrangement sound at present?  As for the 6KHz AM 
> filter, to my understanding In order to receive and transmit 
> AM, I will need this filter for sure. Just not sure how many 
> I'll need, now that I only plan to purchase one general 
> coverage module.  I'm not really sure which receiver would be 
> best suited for general coverage as well.
> 
> 73,
> James KC2UEE
> 
> 
> 
> On Tue, Feb 10, 2009 at 4:59 PM, Rick Tavan N6XI 
>  wrote:
> > With only one receiver you can only hear one band at a 
> time. With the 
> > new firmware, however, you can set the two VFOs to 
> different bands and 
> > flip between them using the A/B switch. I don't think 
> cross-band SPLIT 
> > will be available at first, if ever.
> >
> > I use my sub-rx to monitor both a DX station and its split 
> frequency 
> > pileup at the same time. Many others are using it for diversity 
> > reception with two antennas. I plan to do that once I have a better 
> > filter complement.
> >
> > Unless you plan to listen to two broadcast stations at the 
> same time, 
> > I don't see any reason to put a general coverage bandpass filter in 
> > both receivers. Put one in the one receiver you intend to use for 
> > SWLing.
> >
> > I don't think it's prudent to have both the 250 and 400 Hz filters. 
> > The actual width of the 250 is wider and the actual width 
> of the 400 
> > is narrower so the two end up being very close to each other. If I 
> > felt a need for something narrower than my 400, which I 
> don't for my 
> > operating, I would get the 200. The 250 and the 500 might also be a 
> > reasonable choice.
> >
> > I think the 200 is a tad narrow for 170 Hz RTTY but the 250 
> is fine. 
> > However, I'm guessing as I have only a little RTTY experience.
> >
> > Unless you need to transmit AM, you probably don't need the 
> 6 KHz. I 
> > have one and it works fine but I'd just as soon use the 13 for AM 
> > SWLing. I'll probably sell my 6. YMMV, especially if SWLing 
> on a band 
> > full of very loud BC stations (S9+40 +) is important to you.
> >
> > Unless you plan to do diversity reception on FM, you don't 
> need two 13 
> > KHz filters. All transmitting is done through the filters 
> on the main 
> > board.
> >
> > If you want to operate SSB on crowded bands consider a 1.8 
> or 2.1 KHz 
> > filter.
> >
> > GL & 73,
> >
> > /Rick N6XI
> >
> > On 2/9/09, James Sarte  wrote:
> >>
> >> Hello group,
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new 
> >>

Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[KC2UEE]

Thank you Rick for your insight.  I'll look closer into my filter and
module choices, and perhaps save a bit of money in the process.

After looking at the filter plots (didn't see any for the 5-poles
though), I'll probably end up with the following:

13KHz FM filter - main only (will use for 10m FM transmit also)
6KHz AM filter - (I'm tempted to buy 2, one for the main and one for
the sub... I'll probably put the gen coverage module in the sub)
2.7KHz 5-pole; 1 in the main and 1 in the sub.
500 Hz 5 pole - main only
250 Hz 8 pole - main only

I'm mostly a SSB and 10m FM guy (local repeaters), but also do a bit
of PSK31 and RTTY when the mood strikes me.  How does this arrangement
sound at present?  As for the 6KHz AM filter, to my understanding In
order to receive and transmit AM, I will need this filter for sure.
Just not sure how many I'll need, now that I only plan to purchase one
general coverage module.  I'm not really sure which receiver would be
best suited for general coverage as well.

73,
James KC2UEE



On Tue, Feb 10, 2009 at 4:59 PM, Rick Tavan N6XI  wrote:
> With only one receiver you can only hear one band at a time. With the new
> firmware, however, you can set the two VFOs to different bands and flip
> between them using the A/B switch. I don't think cross-band SPLIT will be
> available at first, if ever.
>
> I use my sub-rx to monitor both a DX station and its split frequency pileup
> at the same time. Many others are using it for diversity reception with two
> antennas. I plan to do that once I have a better filter complement.
>
> Unless you plan to listen to two broadcast stations at the same time, I
> don't see any reason to put a general coverage bandpass filter in both
> receivers. Put one in the one receiver you intend to use for SWLing.
>
> I don't think it's prudent to have both the 250 and 400 Hz filters. The
> actual width of the 250 is wider and the actual width of the 400 is narrower
> so the two end up being very close to each other. If I felt a need for
> something narrower than my 400, which I don't for my operating, I would get
> the 200. The 250 and the 500 might also be a reasonable choice.
>
> I think the 200 is a tad narrow for 170 Hz RTTY but the 250 is fine.
> However, I'm guessing as I have only a little RTTY experience.
>
> Unless you need to transmit AM, you probably don't need the 6 KHz. I have
> one and it works fine but I'd just as soon use the 13 for AM SWLing. I'll
> probably sell my 6. YMMV, especially if SWLing on a band full of very loud
> BC stations (S9+40 +) is important to you.
>
> Unless you plan to do diversity reception on FM, you don't need two 13 KHz
> filters. All transmitting is done through the filters on the main board.
>
> If you want to operate SSB on crowded bands consider a 1.8 or 2.1 KHz
> filter.
>
> GL & 73,
>
> /Rick N6XI
>
> On 2/9/09, James Sarte  wrote:
>>
>> Hello group,
>>
>>
>>
>> Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware
>> under development will allow independent band switching/monitoring between
>> VFO's without a sub receiver.  Am I correct in my understanding then that
>> without a sub receiver, this firmware will allow tuning and monitoring of
>> separate bands?  If that is indeed the case, can someone please clarify for
>> me how that can accomplished with a single receiver?
>>
>>
>>
>> On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I'm curious to know how
>> other people are utilizing their sub receiver?  The reason I ask is I'm
>> finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether it's
>> necessary to fully load up both receivers now.  At this point, I'm ready to
>> purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of the following filters:
>> 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz.  I'd like to have the ability to
>> monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub, while monitoring phone or
>> engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both receivers being on separate
>> bands.  That's just one example.  Another could be to monitor SW broadcast
>> on the main while listening to 10m FM on the sub.  Do I need to install the
>> AM or FM filters in the sub to monitor SW or FM or can the sub's DSP take
>> care of it?
>>
>>
>>
>> 73,
>>
>> James KC2UEE
>>
>>
>>
>> __
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>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Bruce McLaughlin]

I don't believe anyone has answered your filter question yet.  If you plan
on listening to shortwave or FM on the sub receiver you will need
appropriate filters for those modes installed on the sub receiver.  If you
wish to listen to shortwave on the sub receiver you should also have the
general coverage filter installed there.  If you are trying to listen to an
AM station with the sub receiver but without an AM filter on that receiver
it will use the 2.7 or 2.8 roofing filter and that will severely restrict
the frequency response.

Bruce-W8FU

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On
Behalf Of Iain MacDonnell - N6ML
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 2:12 PM
To: d...@w3fpr.com
Cc: James Sarte; elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?



Don Wilhelm wrote:
> James,
> 
> You might want to reconsider whether you are listening to the SW 
> broadcast on the main or on the sub. The low pass filter will be on the 
> main antenna band selection, and if the subreceiver is attempting to 
> receive a signal above the main receiver frequency, you will see a 
> message flashed in the VFO B saying USE SUB RX. That is an indication 
> that the main RX LPF is attenuating the sub-rx signal.

Actually the message is "USE AUX", which is the solution too. Connect
a separate receiving antenna to the "AUX RF" input - or perhaps split
your main antenna and send it to both inputs - and set the sub-RX to
to use AUX.


 ~Iain / N6ML



> If the main RX is at a higher frequency than the sub-rx, I do not 
> believe that is any problem, but when the situation is reversed, the LPF 
> will cut the response on the sub-rx.
> 
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
> 
> James Sarte wrote:
>> Hello group,
>>
>> Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware 
>> under development will allow independent band switching/monitoring 
>> between VFO's without a sub receiver. Am I correct in my understanding 
>> then that without a sub receiver, this firmware will allow tuning and 
>> monitoring of separate bands? If that is indeed the case, can someone 
>> please clarify for me how that can accomplished with a single receiver?
>>
>> On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I'm curious to know 
>> how other people are utilizing their sub receiver? The reason I ask is 
>> I'm finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether 
>> it's necessary to fully load up both receivers now. At this point, I'm 
>> ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of the 
>> following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz. I'd like to 
>> have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub, 
>> while monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both 
>> receivers being on separate bands. That's just one example. Another 
>> could be to monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to 10m FM 
>> on the sub. Do I need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub to 
>> monitor SW or FM or can the sub's DSP take care of it?
>>
>> 73,
>>
>> James KC2UEE
>>
>>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Brian Machesney]

Johnny,

The beautiful thing about Elecraft products is that you don't have to make
the final decision now. You can purchase the rig without the second receiver
and buy it when you figure what you need it for.

That said, I think the question you want to ask yourself is, "What could I
do if I had *two* K3s?"

I can scarcely think of a day that passes that I *don't* use the second
receiver. For example, at sunrise and sunset, I scan the 160m band with one
receiver and listen with the other receiver to see who comes back to the big
guns who are calling CQ. It's a great way to see where the band might be
open to and sometimes I can call the same stations a kc or two up and get a
reply. With the forthcoming band independence between the main and sub
receivers, I plan to enjoy a shortwave station on one receiver while I troll
a "dead" band for signs of life. Come on, sunspots!!

Perhaps the most common practice is listening to both a DX station and the
pileup at the same time. I became accustomed to this with my FT1KMP, but
lost the ability when I switched to my K2 for its more bullet proof receiver
and also missed it with my Ten Tec Omni VII. Since having it again in the
K3, I spend *a lot* less time trying to bust a pileup simply because I have
a lot better chance of putting my signal in a quieter spot where the DX will
hear it. Sure, you *can* sort of do this without the second receiver, but in
my experience not nearly as effectively. I plan to take this to the next
level and use the radio as a single-box "SO2R" in future contests - that
should be interesting!!
Like most engineering questions, the answer is, "It depends." It depends on
what you want to do and what you're comfortable doing. I admit that after 40
years in the hobby, it has taken a little practice to integrate "two K3s"
into my operating style. Now I definitely would not want to do without it.

73,

Brian K1LI
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[KC2UEE]

Hi Johnny,

Birdies was one thing that I'm worried about with the sub receiver option.
I've heard reports from people experiencing a lot of problems with birdies.
I think alot of it has to do with improper cable routing, or poor
shielding.  How are you all testing for birdies?  Just tuning through the
bands with no antenna?  What are the current proposed solutions?

73,
James KC2UEE
On Tue, Feb 10, 2009 at 8:40 AM, Johnny Siu  wrote:

>   Hello James,
>
> May be not a direct answer to your question.
>
> Sub-receiver is useful provided that you have installed it carefully and
> there is no birdies.
>
> 73
>
> Johnny VR2XMC
>
>
> --
> Yahoo!香港提供網上安全攻略，教你如何防範黑客!*了解更多* 
>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Iain MacDonnell - N6ML]

Don Wilhelm wrote:
> James,
> 
> You might want to reconsider whether you are listening to the SW 
> broadcast on the main or on the sub. The low pass filter will be on the 
> main antenna band selection, and if the subreceiver is attempting to 
> receive a signal above the main receiver frequency, you will see a 
> message flashed in the VFO B saying USE SUB RX. That is an indication 
> that the main RX LPF is attenuating the sub-rx signal.

Actually the message is "USE AUX", which is the solution too. Connect
a separate receiving antenna to the "AUX RF" input - or perhaps split
your main antenna and send it to both inputs - and set the sub-RX to
to use AUX.


 ~Iain / N6ML



> If the main RX is at a higher frequency than the sub-rx, I do not 
> believe that is any problem, but when the situation is reversed, the LPF 
> will cut the response on the sub-rx.
> 
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
> 
> James Sarte wrote:
>> Hello group,
>>
>> Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware 
>> under development will allow independent band switching/monitoring 
>> between VFO’s without a sub receiver. Am I correct in my understanding 
>> then that without a sub receiver, this firmware will allow tuning and 
>> monitoring of separate bands? If that is indeed the case, can someone 
>> please clarify for me how that can accomplished with a single receiver?
>>
>> On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I’m curious to know 
>> how other people are utilizing their sub receiver? The reason I ask is 
>> I’m finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether 
>> it’s necessary to fully load up both receivers now. At this point, I’m 
>> ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of the 
>> following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz. I’d like to 
>> have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub, 
>> while monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both 
>> receivers being on separate bands. That’s just one example. Another 
>> could be to monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to 10m FM 
>> on the sub. Do I need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub to 
>> monitor SW or FM or can the sub’s DSP take care of it?
>>
>> 73,
>>
>> James KC2UEE
>>
>>
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[Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[David F. Reed]

Agree fully, but suggest it is also useful for monitoring another band , 
like 6m or 10m for openings, while working a different band.



WILLIS COOKE wrote:
> In my opinion, the most useful employment of the sub receiver is to listen to 
> the pile with one and the DX with the other.  The second use is for diversity 
> receive.
>
> Willis 'Cookie' Cooke 
> K5EWJ
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[WILLIS COOKE]

In my opinion, the most useful employment of the sub receiver is to listen to 
the pile with one and the DX with the other.  The second use is for diversity 
receive.

Willis 'Cookie' Cooke 
K5EWJ


--- On Tue, 2/10/09, Jon K Hellan  wrote:

> From: Jon K Hellan 
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?
> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 2:19 AM
> James Sarte wrote:
> 
> > On a separate note, apart from diversity receive,
> I’m curious to know 
> > how other people are utilizing their sub receiver? 
> The reason I ask is 
> > I’m finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to
> determine whether 
> > it’s necessary to fully load up both receivers now. 
> At this point, I’m 
> > ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2
> each of the 
> > following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz,
> 13KHz.  I’d like to 
> > have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast
> on the sub, while 
> > monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the
> main; both receivers 
> > being on separate bands.  That’s just one example. 
> Another could be to 
> > monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to
> 10m FM on the sub.  
> > Do I need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub
> to monitor SW or FM 
> > or can the sub’s DSP take care of it?
> 
> Will you ever be monitoring two broadcasts at the same
> time, or FM and broadcast at the same time?
> If not, one each of general coverage and FM should suffice.
> 
> Personally, I don't have a subreceiver (yet?), no
> general coverage, and my widest filter is the stock SSB one.
> 
> 73
> Jon LA4RT, Trondheim, Norway
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Johnny Siu]

Hello James,
 
May be not a direct answer to your question.
 
Sub-receiver is useful provided that you have installed it carefully and there 
is no birdies.
 
73
 
Johnny VR2XMC

--- 2009年2月10日 星期二，James Sarte  寫道﹕

寄件人: James Sarte 
主題: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?
收件人: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
日期: 2009 2 10 星期二 上午 10:02








Hello group,
 
Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware under 
development will allow independent band switching/monitoring between VFO’s 
without a sub receiver.  Am I correct in my understanding then that without a 
sub receiver, this firmware will allow tuning and monitoring of separate 
bands?  If that is indeed the case, can someone please clarify for me how that 
can accomplished with a single receiver?  
 
On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I’m curious to know how other 
people are utilizing their sub receiver?  The reason I ask is I’m finalizing my 
purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether it’s necessary to fully 
load up both receivers now.  At this point, I’m ready to purchase 2 general 
coverage modules plus 2 each of the following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 
6KHz, 13KHz.  I’d like to have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast 
on the sub, while monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both 
receivers being on separate bands.  That’s just one example.  Another could be 
to monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to 10m FM on the sub.  Do I 
need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub to monitor SW or FM or can the 
sub’s DSP take care of it?
 
73,
James KC2UEE
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[David Ferrington, M0XDF]

Why two general coverage? Are you planning on running dual receive  
using both Main & Sub? If your just buying GC to allow you to listen  
to broadcasts outside the Ham frequencies, then surely one will be  
sufficient?
Again, are you expecting to need to listen to AM on both receivers, or  
even FM?

Personally, I'd go (I went) for 400Hz, 1.8kHz & 2.8KHz in both  
receivers (I've actually not got the 400Hz in my KRX3) and GP module,  
6KHz and 13KHz in in the Main
73 de M0XDF, K3 #174
-- 
i don't do caps, i'm a unix man!
david ferrington, 1953 -

On 10 Feb 2009, at 11:53, Bill W4ZV wrote:

>
> "At this point, I’m ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules  
> plus 2 each
> of the following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz."
>
>
> John Lemay wrote:
>>
>> I think it would be worth remembering that much of the selectivity  
>> of the
>> K3
>> is carried out by the DSP, and it does it very well. It's debatable
>> whether
>> you would need all the roofing filters in your list.
>>
>
> Yikes...nearly $1500 in filters and BPF modules alone!  I strongly  
> agree
> with you John.  I cannot fathom why anyone would order both the 400  
> and
> 250...much less two each.  There's only 65 Hz difference in actual 6  
> dB
> bandwidth (435 versus 370) or ~18% between them.  At least consider  
> the new
> 500 in place of the 400.
>
> At this rate Eric and Wayne will soon be flying their new G5 to  
> hamfests and
> Inrad will be listing on the NYSE.  :-)
>
> 73,  Bill

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Bill W4ZV]

"At this point, I’m ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each
of the following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz."


John Lemay wrote:
> 
> I think it would be worth remembering that much of the selectivity of the
> K3
> is carried out by the DSP, and it does it very well. It's debatable
> whether
> you would need all the roofing filters in your list. 
> 

Yikes...nearly $1500 in filters and BPF modules alone!  I strongly agree
with you John.  I cannot fathom why anyone would order both the 400 and
250...much less two each.  There's only 65 Hz difference in actual 6 dB
bandwidth (435 versus 370) or ~18% between them.  At least consider the new
500 in place of the 400.

At this rate Eric and Wayne will soon be flying their new G5 to hamfests and
Inrad will be listing on the NYSE.  :-)

73,  Bill

-- 
View this message in context: 
http://n2.nabble.com/K3-sub-receiver-usefulness--tp2300577p2302108.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.

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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[John Lemay]

James

 

I think it would be worth remembering that much of the selectivity of the K3
is carried out by the DSP, and it does it very well. It's debatable whether
you would need all the roofing filters in your list. They're quite easy to
add at a later date. You could spread the cost over a period of time if you
wanted.

 

I believe you will need the FM and AM filters in the sub receiver if you are
using the sub to monitor those modes at the appropriate bandwidth.

 

Regards

 

John G4ZTR

 

  _  

From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of James Sarte
Sent: 10 February 2009 02:02
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

 

Hello group,

 

Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware under
development will allow independent band switching/monitoring between VFO's
without a sub receiver.  Am I correct in my understanding then that without
a sub receiver, this firmware will allow tuning and monitoring of separate
bands?  If that is indeed the case, can someone please clarify for me how
that can accomplished with a single receiver?  

 

On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I'm curious to know how
other people are utilizing their sub receiver?  The reason I ask is I'm
finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether it's
necessary to fully load up both receivers now.  At this point, I'm ready to
purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of the following filters:
250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz.  I'd like to have the ability to
monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub, while monitoring phone or
engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both receivers being on separate bands.
That's just one example.  Another could be to monitor SW broadcast on the
main while listening to 10m FM on the sub.  Do I need to install the AM or
FM filters in the sub to monitor SW or FM or can the sub's DSP take care of
it?

 

73,

James KC2UEE

 



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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Jon K Hellan]

James Sarte wrote:

> On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I’m curious to know 
> how other people are utilizing their sub receiver?  The reason I ask is 
> I’m finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether 
> it’s necessary to fully load up both receivers now.  At this point, I’m 
> ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of the 
> following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz.  I’d like to 
> have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub, while 
> monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both receivers 
> being on separate bands.  That’s just one example.  Another could be to 
> monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to 10m FM on the sub.  
> Do I need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub to monitor SW or FM 
> or can the sub’s DSP take care of it?

Will you ever be monitoring two broadcasts at the same time, or FM and 
broadcast at the same time?
If not, one each of general coverage and FM should suffice.

Personally, I don't have a subreceiver (yet?), no general coverage, and my 
widest filter is the stock SSB one.

73
Jon LA4RT, Trondheim, Norway
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Don Wilhelm]

James,

You might want to reconsider whether you are listening to the SW 
broadcast on the main or on the sub. The low pass filter will be on the 
main antenna band selection, and if the subreceiver is attempting to 
receive a signal above the main receiver frequency, you will see a 
message flashed in the VFO B saying USE SUB RX. That is an indication 
that the main RX LPF is attenuating the sub-rx signal.

If the main RX is at a higher frequency than the sub-rx, I do not 
believe that is any problem, but when the situation is reversed, the LPF 
will cut the response on the sub-rx.

73,
Don W3FPR

James Sarte wrote:
>
> Hello group,
>
> Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware 
> under development will allow independent band switching/monitoring 
> between VFO’s without a sub receiver. Am I correct in my understanding 
> then that without a sub receiver, this firmware will allow tuning and 
> monitoring of separate bands? If that is indeed the case, can someone 
> please clarify for me how that can accomplished with a single receiver?
>
> On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I’m curious to know 
> how other people are utilizing their sub receiver? The reason I ask is 
> I’m finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether 
> it’s necessary to fully load up both receivers now. At this point, I’m 
> ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of the 
> following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz. I’d like to 
> have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub, 
> while monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both 
> receivers being on separate bands. That’s just one example. Another 
> could be to monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to 10m FM 
> on the sub. Do I need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub to 
> monitor SW or FM or can the sub’s DSP take care of it?
>
> 73,
>
> James KC2UEE
>
>
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Re: [Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Brett Howard]

On Mon, 2009-02-09 at 21:02 -0500, James Sarte wrote:
> Hello group,
> 
>  
> 
> Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware
> under development will allow independent band switching/monitoring
> between VFO’s without a sub receiver.  Am I correct in my
> understanding then that without a sub receiver, this firmware will
> allow tuning and monitoring of separate bands?  If that is indeed the
> case, can someone please clarify for me how that can accomplished with
> a single receiver?  
> 
You can monitor two different bands at once with a single receiver yes
but you can't listen to both of them at the same time.  Essentially you
still have the exact same setup that the radio does today.  You have VFO
A and VFO B just like you already do.  The only difference is that VFO A
and VFO B can be on different bands now.  

So you can have VFO A on 7.029 and VFO B on 14.029 and as you press the
A/B button you kick back and forth between the two bands.  You can also
press and hold REV and switch between them temporarily.

This change will also allow you to use split mode across bands.  Many
other radio's allow this.  
>  
> 
> On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I’m curious to know
> how other people are utilizing their sub receiver?  The reason I ask
> is I’m finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine
> whether it’s necessary to fully load up both receivers now.  At this
> point, I’m ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of
> the following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz.  I’d like
> to have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub,
> while monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both
> receivers being on separate bands.  That’s just one example.  Another
> could be to monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to 10m FM
> on the sub.  Do I need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub to
> monitor SW or FM or can the sub’s DSP take care of it?
> 
One thing is that while in a QSO you won't be able to hear out of any of
them while in TX.  But when you're monitoring you'll be able to hear
both at once.  You'll need the filters to be able to receive those modes
in full glory but you can receive AM just fine with just the 2.7K filter
in SSB mode.  You can get a lot done with just the stock radio.  Often
you can get a lot done with just one general coverage rx filter but
you'll have more flexibility and the ability to listen to two out of
band freqs...
>  
> 
> 73,
> 
> James KC2UEE
> 
>  
> 
> 
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[Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[James Sarte]

Hello group,

 

Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware under
development will allow independent band switching/monitoring between VFO's
without a sub receiver.  Am I correct in my understanding then that without
a sub receiver, this firmware will allow tuning and monitoring of separate
bands?  If that is indeed the case, can someone please clarify for me how
that can accomplished with a single receiver?  

 

On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I'm curious to know how
other people are utilizing their sub receiver?  The reason I ask is I'm
finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine whether it's
necessary to fully load up both receivers now.  At this point, I'm ready to
purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of the following filters:
250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz.  I'd like to have the ability to
monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub, while monitoring phone or
engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both receivers being on separate bands.
That's just one example.  Another could be to monitor SW broadcast on the
main while listening to 10m FM on the sub.  Do I need to install the AM or
FM filters in the sub to monitor SW or FM or can the sub's DSP take care of
it?

 

73,

James KC2UEE

 

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