[Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
I was trying to load new firmware to my K3. Present MCU version 04.51. When started I got some Err message and the Tx lamp blinked and the K3 screen darkend. I tryed to switch the power off on the K3 but it did not work so I paniced and switched the power supply off. I have tryed to switch the power on again but it is not possible. What do I do?? Please help! Kurt/SM6BGG -- I am using the free version of SPAMfighter. SPAMfighter has removed 3975 of my spam emails to date. Get the free SPAMfighter here: http://www.spamfighter.com/len Do you have a slow PC? Try a Free scan http://www.spamfighter.com/SLOW-PCfighter?cid=sigen __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
K3 Utility Help, Troubleshooting, MCU Load failure. 73 de Dick, K6KR -Original Message- From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Kurt Wiksten Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2014 10:02 AM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update I was trying to load new firmware to my K3. Present MCU version 04.51. When started I got some Err message and the Tx lamp blinked and the K3 screen darkend. I tryed to switch the power off on the K3 but it did not work so I paniced and switched the power supply off. I have tryed to switch the power on again but it is not possible. What do I do?? Please help! Kurt/SM6BGG -- I am using the free version of SPAMfighter. SPAMfighter has removed 3975 of my spam emails to date. Get the free SPAMfighter here: http://www.spamfighter.com/len Do you have a slow PC? Try a Free scan http://www.spamfighter.com/SLOW-PCfighter?cid=sigen __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to d...@elecraft.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
Thanks to everybody for your advice. But my problem still not solved, because I am communicating with the K3 via my Microkeyer2. Reading the K3 Utility Helpfiles shows that it might be a problem that my USB to serial connection is via my Microkeyer2 and the recommendation is to change the cabling so that the PC is connected directly to the K3 and that cable does not fit the K3 RS232 port. I suppose I will have to order the KUSB-cable from Elecraft. Any other suggestions? Kurt/SM6BGG - Original Message - From: Jim Rogers jim.w4...@gmail.com To: Kurt Wiksten kurt.wiks...@tele2.se Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2014 7:43 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update Kurt, Remember the K3 is basically an SDR and has a computer heart. Make sure you have power to the K3. Don't worry about the power switch on the front panel, it is not operational until the firmware is in place. The flashing TX LED is a good sign, it says the K3 is awaiting the firmware. Verify your connections for the firmware upload to the K3 and retry it. Once you get the firmware back into the K3, the front panel power switch will work again and all will be well. Jim, W4ATK On 8/14/2014 12:01 PM, Kurt Wiksten wrote: I was trying to load new firmware to my K3. Present MCU version 04.51. When started I got some Err message and the Tx lamp blinked and the K3 screen darkend. I tryed to switch the power off on the K3 but it did not work so I paniced and switched the power supply off. I have tryed to switch the power on again but it is not possible. What do I do?? Please help! Kurt/SM6BGG -- I am using the free version of SPAMfighter. SPAMfighter has removed 3975 of my spam emails to date. Get the free SPAMfighter here: http://www.spamfighter.com/len Do you have a slow PC? Try a Free scan http://www.spamfighter.com/SLOW-PCfighter?cid=sigen __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to jim.w4...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
Hi Kurt, I don't have a Microkeyer but I distinctly remember some list traffic some time back warning, Don't try to update firmware through a Microkeyer. If you look at the block diagram on the Microham web site, the CAT interface comes from the internal CPU in the Microkeyer. Assuming my memory is at least partially still intact, I believe that was the problem, the firmware in the Microkeyer interferes with the K3 handshaking with the K3 Utility during FW loads. What are your connectors? The K3 is a 2 row female DB9 if I remember right [it's buried back in the non-wireless part of my station and its very dark back there] You can probably get a USB-RS232 adapter locally cheaper than paying shipping costs. The Elecraft adapter I have uses the Prolific chip set and runs fine. Some say the FTDI chip set is more reliable. 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2014 Cal QSO Party 4-5 Oct 2014 - www.cqp.org On 8/14/2014 4:02 PM, Kurt Wiksten wrote: Thanks to everybody for your advice. But my problem still not solved, because I am communicating with the K3 via my Microkeyer2. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
Kurt, Both Microham and Elecraft warn that one should not attempt firmware downloads through the MicroHam device. Other K3Utility functions work fine through the Microham device. If you have a real serial port on the computer, that is the preferred connection, otherwise a good USB to serial adapter is the best answer. The preferred adapter is one using an FTDI chip. Others may work (and I can also recommend EdgePort). BTW - there are counterfeit FTDI and Prolific USB to serial adapters on the market. Both Prolific and FTDI have created new drivers for Windows 7 and above that detect those counterfeits and render them unusable - so steer clear of bargain priced adapters whose instructions tell you to turn off Windows updates and run their 'special' drivers. The Elecraft KUSB cable uses an authentic FTDI chip. I have also had success with a Keyspan adapter that was supplied for testing by a customer. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/14/2014 7:02 PM, Kurt Wiksten wrote: Thanks to everybody for your advice. But my problem still not solved, because I am communicating with the K3 via my Microkeyer2. Reading the K3 Utility Helpfiles shows that it might be a problem that my USB to serial connection is via my Microkeyer2 and the recommendation is to change the cabling so that the PC is connected directly to the K3 and that cable does not fit the K3 RS232 port. I suppose I will have to order the KUSB-cable from Elecraft. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
Every microHAM Users Manual includes a specific warning *NOT* to upload *any* transceiver firmware via the microHAM device. The microHAM device constantly polls the transceiver for frequency and mode. Those polls are not compatible with firmware uploads. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-08-14 7:30 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Kurt, Both Microham and Elecraft warn that one should not attempt firmware downloads through the MicroHam device. Other K3Utility functions work fine through the Microham device. If you have a real serial port on the computer, that is the preferred connection, otherwise a good USB to serial adapter is the best answer. The preferred adapter is one using an FTDI chip. Others may work (and I can also recommend EdgePort). BTW - there are counterfeit FTDI and Prolific USB to serial adapters on the market. Both Prolific and FTDI have created new drivers for Windows 7 and above that detect those counterfeits and render them unusable - so steer clear of bargain priced adapters whose instructions tell you to turn off Windows updates and run their 'special' drivers. The Elecraft KUSB cable uses an authentic FTDI chip. I have also had success with a Keyspan adapter that was supplied for testing by a customer. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/14/2014 7:02 PM, Kurt Wiksten wrote: Thanks to everybody for your advice. But my problem still not solved, because I am communicating with the K3 via my Microkeyer2. Reading the K3 Utility Helpfiles shows that it might be a problem that my USB to serial connection is via my Microkeyer2 and the recommendation is to change the cabling so that the PC is connected directly to the K3 and that cable does not fit the K3 RS232 port. I suppose I will have to order the KUSB-cable from Elecraft. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to li...@subich.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
I connected an A/B switchbox to switch the radio between the MKII and a serial port on the computer (or an Edgeport US/serial box). It has been easy to switch the K3/P3 to the serial port for firmware updates. 73, Jim N7US -Original Message- Every microHAM Users Manual includes a specific warning *NOT* to upload *any* transceiver firmware via the microHAM device. The microHAM device constantly polls the transceiver for frequency and mode. Those polls are not compatible with firmware uploads. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-08-14 7:30 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Kurt, Both Microham and Elecraft warn that one should not attempt firmware downloads through the MicroHam device. Other K3Utility functions work fine through the Microham device. If you have a real serial port on the computer, that is the preferred connection, otherwise a good USB to serial adapter is the best answer. The preferred adapter is one using an FTDI chip. Others may work (and I can also recommend EdgePort). BTW - there are counterfeit FTDI and Prolific USB to serial adapters on the market. Both Prolific and FTDI have created new drivers for Windows 7 and above that detect those counterfeits and render them unusable - so steer clear of bargain priced adapters whose instructions tell you to turn off Windows updates and run their 'special' drivers. The Elecraft KUSB cable uses an authentic FTDI chip. I have also had success with a Keyspan adapter that was supplied for testing by a customer. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/14/2014 7:02 PM, Kurt Wiksten wrote: Thanks to everybody for your advice. But my problem still not solved, because I am communicating with the K3 via my Microkeyer2. Reading the K3 Utility Helpfiles shows that it might be a problem that my USB to serial connection is via my Microkeyer2 and the recommendation is to change the cabling so that the PC is connected directly to the K3 and that cable does not fit the K3 RS232 port. I suppose I will have to order the KUSB-cable from Elecraft. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
On 2014-08-14 9:00 PM, Jim N7US wrote: I connected an A/B switchbox to switch the radio between the MKII and a serial port on the computer (or an Edgeport US/serial box). As did I ... COM1 on the motherboard goes to a 4 port switch. Two of the ports go to two ports switches on each K3/P3. The third port goes to the cable for the XG3 and the fourth port goes to a AA5AU style CW/PTT/FSK interface for general testing. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-08-14 9:00 PM, Jim N7US wrote: I connected an A/B switchbox to switch the radio between the MKII and a serial port on the computer (or an Edgeport US/serial box). It has been easy to switch the K3/P3 to the serial port for firmware updates. 73, Jim N7US -Original Message- Every microHAM Users Manual includes a specific warning *NOT* to upload *any* transceiver firmware via the microHAM device. The microHAM device constantly polls the transceiver for frequency and mode. Those polls are not compatible with firmware uploads. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-08-14 7:30 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Kurt, Both Microham and Elecraft warn that one should not attempt firmware downloads through the MicroHam device. Other K3Utility functions work fine through the Microham device. If you have a real serial port on the computer, that is the preferred connection, otherwise a good USB to serial adapter is the best answer. The preferred adapter is one using an FTDI chip. Others may work (and I can also recommend EdgePort). BTW - there are counterfeit FTDI and Prolific USB to serial adapters on the market. Both Prolific and FTDI have created new drivers for Windows 7 and above that detect those counterfeits and render them unusable - so steer clear of bargain priced adapters whose instructions tell you to turn off Windows updates and run their 'special' drivers. The Elecraft KUSB cable uses an authentic FTDI chip. I have also had success with a Keyspan adapter that was supplied for testing by a customer. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/14/2014 7:02 PM, Kurt Wiksten wrote: Thanks to everybody for your advice. But my problem still not solved, because I am communicating with the K3 via my Microkeyer2. Reading the K3 Utility Helpfiles shows that it might be a problem that my USB to serial connection is via my Microkeyer2 and the recommendation is to change the cabling so that the PC is connected directly to the K3 and that cable does not fit the K3 RS232 port. I suppose I will have to order the KUSB-cable from Elecraft. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to li...@subich.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 firmware update
I did the same. Check thrift stores for a RS-232 switch if you don’t already have one. I picked mine for 25 cents at the local thrift store. scl On 2014-08-14 9:00 PM, Jim N7US wrote: I connected an A/B switchbox to switch the radio between the MKII and a serial port on the computer (or an Edgeport US/serial box). It has been easy to switch the K3/P3 to the serial port for firmware updates. 73, Jim N7US -Original Message- Every microHAM Users Manual includes a specific warning *NOT* to upload *any* transceiver firmware via the microHAM device. The microHAM device constantly polls the transceiver for frequency and mode. Those polls are not compatible with firmware uploads. 73, ... Joe, W4TV On 2014-08-14 7:30 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote: Kurt, Both Microham and Elecraft warn that one should not attempt firmware downloads through the MicroHam device. Other K3Utility functions work fine through the Microham device. If you have a real serial port on the computer, that is the preferred connection, otherwise a good USB to serial adapter is the best answer. The preferred adapter is one using an FTDI chip. Others may work (and I can also recommend EdgePort). BTW - there are counterfeit FTDI and Prolific USB to serial adapters on the market. Both Prolific and FTDI have created new drivers for Windows 7 and above that detect those counterfeits and render them unusable - so steer clear of bargain priced adapters whose instructions tell you to turn off Windows updates and run their 'special' drivers. The Elecraft KUSB cable uses an authentic FTDI chip. I have also had success with a Keyspan adapter that was supplied for testing by a customer. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/14/2014 7:02 PM, Kurt Wiksten wrote: Thanks to everybody for your advice. But my problem still not solved, because I am communicating with the K3 via my Microkeyer2. Reading the K3 Utility Helpfiles shows that it might be a problem that my USB to serial connection is via my Microkeyer2 and the recommendation is to change the cabling so that the PC is connected directly to the K3 and that cable does not fit the K3 RS232 port. I suppose I will have to order the KUSB-cable from Elecraft. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to li...@subich.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to k...@cox.net Steve - KY7K k...@arrl.net Get OUT and play radio! __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Problems with K3
*Hi all* * * *I have K3 serial number 2307 which is fully loaded except for the 2m module, but recently it's beginning to give me some issues, I previously had ERR VC0 errors a few years back but cured this problem with the official K3 Synthesizer ALC Modificationhttp://www.elecraft.com/K3/mods/ELECRAFT_Application_Note_KSYN3_ALC_Rev_A.pdf .* *Problem 1 ..* *Recently I have been having similar problems, when the radio was getting warm tuning the VFO would cause lots of crackling noise on the band, then if I tried to complete **VCO Calibration it would complete very quickly and I would get the following errors **E 5 ERR VC0 ... **E 00255 ERR VC4.* * * *So I removed both the K3SYNTH boards, checked for dry joins etc but nothing was found, so I decided to put the ** K3SYNTH boards back in the radio the opposite way with the board causing the issue in the 2nd RX position and the later ** K3SYNTH board in the main VFO position* * * *So all seemed well for 3 days but then the problem arose again, but this time when the radio is cold t**uning the VFO would cause lots of crackling noise on the band, then if I tried to complete **VCO Calibration it would complete very quickly and I would get the following errors **E 00013 ERR VC0* * * *So this is the other K3SYNTH board in the main VFO position and it's causing the same issue but when the radio is cold.* * * * * *Problem 2 * *I was having a QSO with a local on USB when my TX signal suddenly stepped down the band about 1.5khz, after much a do we finally realized what was happening and the local ham was having to receive my with his RIT on, I checked out my signal and sure enough I was 1.5khz low ?? how could this be?* * * *So I tried everything I could think of including re flashing the firmware but still the same problem exists, so i tried CW, all was fine, this is strange, after around an hour of trying various things I turned off ESSB mode and bam, the USB signal came back onto the same frequency as the RX, oh this is strange ??* * * *So i switched ESSB on again and the TX signal stepped down 1.5khz again .. * * * *So that's where we are at the moment, I still have both the above issues with no apparent answers * * * *All help appreciated.* * * *Jim M0CKE* __ 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] Problems with K3 s/n 1826
Check that a long lead from the KSYN3 or KREF3 modules aren't shorted against the bare metal they mount to. That was my problem. One cap had a lead that was too long and was touching. Rob NV5E K3 #1417 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Wed, 1 Oct 2008 22:23:28 -0700 Subject: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 s/n 1826 I just finished building my new K3 (all except the 100W amp that awaits final checkout). The rig seems to power up OK, but returns error messages when I do the Synthesizer Calibration. It returns Err VCO with E 00374 data and/or ERR VC4 with E 00039 data. I checked the seating of the oscillator, the KREF3 and KSYN3 modules and the three TMP cables, but the results are the same. What is going on and what can I do? Thank you. 73, Phil Shepard NS7P _ See how Windows connects the people, information, and fun that are part of your life. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093175mrt/direct/01/___ 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] Problems with K3 s/n 1826
I got several replies to my query. I have tried reloading the latest released firmware, checking the REF and SYN PCBs for shorting and reseating the oscillator in its socket. All with no improvement. The PLL1 voltage goes above 7 volts in the upper end of 40 meters, and the relays switch several times as I tune across 40 meters. The only suggestion I haven't tried is spreading the turns on the toroid. Is that my only option at this point? Thank you. 73, Phil NS7P -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Phil and Christina Sent: Wednesday, October 01, 2008 10:23 PM To: Reflector Elecraft Subject: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 s/n 1826 I just finished building my new K3 (all except the 100W amp that awaits final checkout). The rig seems to power up OK, but returns error messages when I do the Synthesizer Calibration. It returns Err VCO with E 00374 data and/or ERR VC4 with E 00039 data. I checked the seating of the oscillator, the KREF3 and KSYN3 modules and the three TMP cables, but the results are the same. What is going on and what can I do? Thank you. 73, Phil Shepard NS7P ___ 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] Problems with K3 s/n 1826
Phil, Your best option at this point is to send an email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] I would only spread the toroid turns as a last resort and only after discussing it with K3support. 73, Don W3FPR Phil and Christina wrote: I got several replies to my query. I have tried reloading the latest released firmware, checking the REF and SYN PCBs for shorting and reseating the oscillator in its socket. All with no improvement. The PLL1 voltage goes above 7 volts in the upper end of 40 meters, and the relays switch several times as I tune across 40 meters. The only suggestion I haven't tried is spreading the turns on the toroid. Is that my only option at this point? Thank you. 73, Phil NS7P -Original Message- *From:* [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of *Phil and Christina *Sent:* Wednesday, October 01, 2008 10:23 PM *To:* Reflector Elecraft *Subject:* [Elecraft] Problems with K3 s/n 1826 I just finished building my new K3 (all except the 100W amp that awaits final checkout). The rig seems to power up OK, but returns error messages when I do the Synthesizer Calibration. It returns Err VCO with E 00374 data and/or ERR VC4 with E 00039 data. I checked the seating of the oscillator, the KREF3 and KSYN3 modules and the three TMP cables, but the results are the same. What is going on and what can I do? Thank you. 73, Phil Shepard NS7P ___ 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 No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.173 / Virus Database: 270.7.5/1703 - Release Date: 10/2/2008 7:46 AM ___ 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] Problems with K3 s/n 1826
Phil and Christina wrote: I got several replies to my query. I have tried reloading the latest released firmware, checking the REF and SYN PCBs for shorting and reseating the oscillator in its socket. All with no improvement. The PLL1 voltage goes above 7 volts in the upper end of 40 meters, and the relays switch several times as I tune across 40 meters. The only suggestion I haven't tried is spreading the turns on the toroid. Is that my only option at this point? Thank you. Hi Phil, This note is not only for you but any others experiencing K3 problems. Always send your queries to [EMAIL PROTECTED] first. You stand a much better chance of receiving accurate information from Elecraft than any other source. Gary AB7MY is the main K3 support guy, he is normally very prompt in responding and he is very, very good at K3 support. I would never modify my own K3 based only on what I read on this list. Some advice here is good and some is not. You run the risk of making your problem worse if you happen to follow bad advice. 73, Bill W4ZV -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/Problem-with-new-firmware-dowload-tp1132474p1134582.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ 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] Problems with K3 s/n 1826
I just finished building my new K3 (all except the 100W amp that awaits final checkout). The rig seems to power up OK, but returns error messages when I do the Synthesizer Calibration. It returns Err VCO with E 00374 data and/or ERR VC4 with E 00039 data. I checked the seating of the oscillator, the KREF3 and KSYN3 modules and the three TMP cables, but the results are the same. What is going on and what can I do? Thank you. 73, Phil Shepard NS7P ___ 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: [K3] [Elecraft] Problems with K3 KXV3 IF Output Level?
Fern Rivard wrote: Good evening Lyle: I honestly don't know where you're getting those levels from as I already reported to you back in April/08 that the levels at the I F output were pretty well non existent. There is just no tracking of levels at the I F out with what is fed into the antenna input of the receiver. I even used a 15 db amplifier from Jack Smith of Clifton Laboratories without any luck as there is simply no levels to play with there. I believe that Jack Smith also queried you about that without getting a proper reply as yet from you. I realize that nobody is perfect but why are we dogging a proper reply and/or fix for that? Fern with K3 #412 See N8LP's comments below. My IF OUT level improved ~7.5 dB with his mod which involves changing R8 to 15k and R9 to 50 ohms on the K3 RF Board. 73, Bill Re: [LP-PAN] Re: K3 IF output The NF of LP-PAN by itself is the same as the K3 with preamp off. A signal at about -127dBm (0.1uV) can be heard about equally well with 500 Hz filter above the noise floor of about -135dBm. But the overall NF of LP-PAN depends on the K3. This is because the losses in the K3 mixer / internal buffer add to the NF. In a stock K3, these losses add up to about 17dB. Turning the K3 preamp on helps a lot, since the preamp has low NF and adds gain ahead of the losses, where it has a greater effect on the overall NF. The simple mod I did to my K3 internal buffer reduces the losses by almost 10dB, while only reducing the IP3 of the system by a couple dB. My modified K3 / LP-PAN combo has an overall NF that is below atmospheric noise here on all bands but 10m... with the K3 preamp off. This seems to me to be a reasonable balance of signal handling and sensitivity. Turning the K3 preamp on, without the mod, produces a similar result as I recall. Unless you regularly see signals above -20dBm, leaving the K3 preamp on should not be a problem. I haven't seen a signal that strong here yet, even during FD where I had two stations within a mile of my QTH. I haven't heard anything more from Wayne about the possibility of a running change in the K3 circuit, but the mod is simple to do if you like. It's changing two resistors (actually one can be paralleled to the existing one), similar to doing the HAGC mod. Several users have done it. 73, Larry N8LP -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/New-PowerSDR-IF-K3-Video-posted-tp641057p662155.html Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ 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] Problems with K3 KXV3 IF Output Level?
Fern, I am using the IF output AOK from my K3/KXV3. I am using it with a Clifton Labs isolation Z1U buffer/preamp with very low gain into a Softrock40 With a LO of 8191 kHz with WU2X's version of PowerSDR as the panadaptor display, offset by 24 kHz (8215-8191). This with a Delta-44 sound card sampling at 96 kHz. I would estimate that, with a 50 uV signal into the K3, the KXV3 is putting out something in the 20-50 uV range. Using my test oscillator at 1 uV output into the K3, I see an obvious peak on the panadaptor, so the sensitivity is OK. I haven't calibrated PowerSDR levels yet, but it is already near the correct S9 level on the display for 50 uV from my test oscillator into the K3. Connect up another receiver to the KXV3's IF output and see if you don't hear sigs repeated on it when you tune it near 8.215 MHz. If the K3 is hearing sigs, you should hear sigs on that second rx near whatever freq the K3 is tuned to, and their levels will be similar to what the K3 is hearing. This will tell you if your K3/KXV3 is working OK. Keep working on it - the PowerSDR panadaptor is the best I have ever used in 35 years of using panadaptors. Jerry W4UK At 12:08 AM 7/31/2008, Fern Rivard wrote: Good evening Lyle: I honestly don't know where you're getting those levels from as I already reported to you back in April/08 that the levels at the I F output were pretty well non existent. There is just no tracking of levels at the I F out with what is fed into the antenna input of the receiver. I even used a 15 db amplifier from Jack Smith of Clifton Laboratories without any luck as there is simply no levels to play with there. I believe that Jack Smith also queried you about that without getting a proper reply as yet from you. I realize that nobody is perfect but why are we dogging a proper reply and/or fix for that? Fern with K3 #412 - Original Message - From: Lyle Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Don Ehrlich [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, July 30, 2008 9:18 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 KXV3 IF Output Level? The 2nd antenna input works as expected but my oscilloscope shows no signal (5 mV) coming from the IF Output on the KXV3. What IF signal level should I be seeing? It will be about the same level as at the antenna, or perhaps less, depending on settings of PRE, ATT, etc. 73, Lyle KK7P ___ 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] Problems with K3 KXV3 IF Output Level?
Good evening Lyle: I honestly don't know where you're getting those levels from as I already reported to you back in April/08 that the levels at the I F output were pretty well non existent. There is just no tracking of levels at the I F out with what is fed into the antenna input of the receiver. I even used a 15 db amplifier from Jack Smith of Clifton Laboratories without any luck as there is simply no levels to play with there. I believe that Jack Smith also queried you about that without getting a proper reply as yet from you. I realize that nobody is perfect but why are we dogging a proper reply and/or fix for that? Fern with K3 #412 - Original Message - From: Lyle Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Don Ehrlich [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, July 30, 2008 9:18 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 KXV3 IF Output Level? The 2nd antenna input works as expected but my oscilloscope shows no signal (5 mV) coming from the IF Output on the KXV3. What IF signal level should I be seeing? It will be about the same level as at the antenna, or perhaps less, depending on settings of PRE, ATT, etc. 73, Lyle KK7P ___ 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 -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.516 / Virus Database: 270.5.6/1574 - Release Date: 7/25/2008 4:27 PM ___ 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] Problems with K3 Calibration
Hi Todd, 3. I also have discovered that toroid L18 on the KBPF3 had a lead broken during shipment. It seems I've heard of this happening before to someone else. Can a turn on the toroid be sacrificed to allow enough length of the lead to solder it back in the board? I highly doubt it. You should contact [EMAIL PROTECTED]. The guys at the support desk are usually very quick and always competent, imho. vy 73 de toby ___ 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] Problems with K3 Calibration
I am currently at the calibration stage of assembly. 1. In trying to do the reference oscillator calibration(I have the 1ppm TCXO) (using method 3) I can get into the CONFIG:REF CAL menu entry, but when I tap 1 I can't get to REF xxC. Tapping 1 seems to change the mode from CW to AM, the AGC speed, turns on the VOX, and changes the filter from 1 to 2 but I am not able to get to REF xxC. 2. When doing transmitter gain all goes well except on 7 Mhz and 10 Mhz where I get no output power and the display says 0 watts and ERR TXG. All other bands seems to respond as they should. I see in the error codes that I should look at the service manual?? 3. I also have discovered that toroid L18 on the KBPF3 had a lead broken during shipment. It seems I've heard of this happening before to someone else. Can a turn on the toroid be sacrificed to allow enough length of the lead to solder it back in the board? I pulled the KBPF3 out and disabled it in the configuration setup but I still have the problems mentioned above. Any ideas? Thanks, Todd Gahagan, WA7U K3 SN-726 ___ 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] Problems with K3 Calibration
Todd J Gahagan wrote: 1. In trying to do the reference oscillator calibration(I have the 1ppm TCXO) (using method 3) I can get into the CONFIG:REF CAL menu entry, but when I tap 1 I can't get to REF xxC. Tapping 1 seems to change the mode from CW to AM, the AGC speed, turns on the VOX, and changes the filter from 1 to 2 but I am not able to get to REF xxC. I'll answer the easy one: this method isn't implemented in the firmware yet. Just use the method that zero-beats WWV. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ 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] Problems with K3 Calibration
thanks Vic, I suspected that was the case. Now on to the other problem. Todd - Original Message - From: Vic K2VCO [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Todd J Gahagan [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Elecraft List Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, April 15, 2008 8:54 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Problems with K3 Calibration Todd J Gahagan wrote: 1. In trying to do the reference oscillator calibration(I have the 1ppm TCXO) (using method 3) I can get into the CONFIG:REF CAL menu entry, but when I tap 1 I can't get to REF xxC. Tapping 1 seems to change the mode from CW to AM, the AGC speed, turns on the VOX, and changes the filter from 1 to 2 but I am not able to get to REF xxC. I'll answer the easy one: this method isn't implemented in the firmware yet. Just use the method that zero-beats WWV. -- 73, Vic, K2VCO Fresno CA http://www.qsl.net/k2vco ___ 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
