[Elecraft] XV432 transverter note
Hello fellow owners, I am posting this here in case it may help others solve some issues they have. The past weekend contest presented a good opportunity to test a recent modification to my Elecraft XV432 transverter. In the last contest I noticed that its frequency stability was not sufficient for dependable FT-8 operation. As it went thru transmit cycles, the received signals on the waterfall would slowly arc over on a curved trajectory. It took about 15 minutes of operation to settle down I theorized that the high FT-8 duty cycle raised its internal temperature faster than its local oscillator crystal oven could compensate. The little fan inside simply spread the heat from the PA around to the whole unit. In a separate box I rigged a freq synthesizer (from Q5, having a nice TCXO) set to produce the required LO frequency. The LO in the transverter was disabled with a jumper from its transistor's base to ground. A BNC connector added to the side of the transverter near the internal LO circuit allowed for a small capacitor to then couple in the synthesized signal, and LO levels and alinement were similar to the original. It worked well! Now I get quick answers to my FT-8 transmissions. And, it is interesting to watch other's signals on the waterfall- some are obviously stable with a vertical series of transmissions, but others have curving trajectories, often seen when they would first start up on the band, and those stations were often difficult or impossible to contact as their frequency moved. My XV144 and XV222 transverters do not seem to suffer the same problem but will get a closer look in the future. 73, Chet, N8RA __ 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] XV432
Due to station changes I have a stack of 5 Elecraft transverters sitting idle. (There are still 3 others in use!). 50, 2x 144, 222, and 432. All but the 50MHz one are converted to use external LO. They are easily switched back to the internal LO if desired by soldering back a few connection/parts. They are available for sale now. Cannot ship for a few weeks due to travel schedule. Mike - K7MDL El87sm/CN88sf -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] XV432
I have used it for JT65 and FT8 but you have to run it at low output to minimize drift from heating. Even with the oven option it will drift as it heats up. I eventually changed my entire stack(144,222,43,902,1296) all to an external shared programmable LO, and that was connected to a 10MHz OCXO or GPSDO. No drift here! I have 7 Elecraft transverters between 2 QTHs, plus others for 902/1296, all but the one 50Mhz box are converted to external LO. Mike - K7MDL EL87sm/CN88sf -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] XV432
Hello all, Is the XV432 stable enough for EME digi modes? Thanks agn 73 Ken K5DNL __ 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] XV432
I would like to thank Don, Mike and Peter for responding to my plea for help for an XV transverter crystal oven. I never cease to be amazed at the help given on the Elecraft reflector which is second to none. Thank you gentlemen. 73 de David G4DMP In a recent message, David Pratt writes I am wishing to buy an XV432 transverter for use with my K2. If anyone has one which they no longer need, I would be pleased to hear from them. 73 de David G4DMP -- + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + | David M Pratt, Kippax, Leeds. | | Website: http://www.g4dmp.co.uk | + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + __ 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] XV432
I am wishing to buy an XV432 transverter for use with my K2. If anyone has one which they no longer need, I would be pleased to hear from them. 73 de David G4DMP -- + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + | David M Pratt, Kippax, Leeds. | | Website: http://www.g4dmp.co.uk | + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + __ 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] XV432 deaf
Raj, I have not measured the gain of the ATF stage by itself. That is difficult to do because the measurement probe can induce and pick up stray coupling at VHF/UHF frequencies. I normally judged the overall performance of the XVseries transverters by injecting a -140 dBm signal (controlled so there is little leakage) with a connected receiver. I expected the receiver response of that combination to show a 20 dB or greater audio signal above the receiver noise floor. In other words, I used a 'system approach'. If the overall response was not acceptable, in all cases, replacing the PHEMT corrected it. 73, Don W3FPR On 5/12/2019 2:29 PM, Rajiv Dewan wrote: Thanks Don for your prompt reply. I built it a few years ago and I think it worked then. I just got back into UHF and thought to check it out. So, I am not sure if it worked before. I have peaked the RX cap and LNA bias. I measured the gain across the ATF to be 10.5dB. Does that indicate that the PHEMT needs to be replaced? Raj, N2RD -- Original Message -- From: "Don Wilhelm" To: "Rajiv Dewan" ; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 5/12/2019 2:03:48 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 deaf Raj, Has this XV432 worked before and recently developed weak receive? If so, try peaking the RX input capacitor, and if that does not correct it, replace the PHEMT (ATF34143). If you recently acquired it, check the configuration jumpers for the 28 MHz IF - do you have a single coax and it is configured for separate TX and RX IF (or vice-versa)? 73, Don W3FPR On 5/12/2019 1:44 PM, Rajiv Dewan wrote: Dear all, I have a XV432 that seems deaf compared to my ICOM IC-7000. When I tune to a local beacon on 432.300 MHz, I can copy it clearly on the IC but nothing is heard on the XV432/K3 with KXV3B. I checked transverter set up by feeding it a signal from a signal gen. It has a conversion gain of about 16 to 17dB. The specs say 20dB. This does seem to be too bad. I checked the front end RF circuit out by feeding in a -80dBm signal from HP8657B signal generator set to 432.300MHz. The ATF34143 seems to have a net gain of 11dB. The next MMIC MAV11 seems to have a gain of 10.5dB. Are these within spec? If I can fix it without altering the circuit, that would be ideal. Else, I am considering two mods: Replace the MAV11 (10 to 12db gain in specs) with MAR8 (27dB gain) with appropriate change in the bias resistor (120 1W to 270 ohms 1/4W)Insert a W6PQL LNA (uses PGA103+) between K10 and the ATF on board. Thoughts/ideas are very welcome, __ 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] XV432 deaf
Thanks Don for your prompt reply. I built it a few years ago and I think it worked then. I just got back into UHF and thought to check it out. So, I am not sure if it worked before. I have peaked the RX cap and LNA bias. I measured the gain across the ATF to be 10.5dB. Does that indicate that the PHEMT needs to be replaced? Raj, N2RD -- Original Message -- From: "Don Wilhelm" To: "Rajiv Dewan" ; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: 5/12/2019 2:03:48 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 deaf Raj, Has this XV432 worked before and recently developed weak receive? If so, try peaking the RX input capacitor, and if that does not correct it, replace the PHEMT (ATF34143). If you recently acquired it, check the configuration jumpers for the 28 MHz IF - do you have a single coax and it is configured for separate TX and RX IF (or vice-versa)? 73, Don W3FPR On 5/12/2019 1:44 PM, Rajiv Dewan wrote: Dear all, I have a XV432 that seems deaf compared to my ICOM IC-7000. When I tune to a local beacon on 432.300 MHz, I can copy it clearly on the IC but nothing is heard on the XV432/K3 with KXV3B. I checked transverter set up by feeding it a signal from a signal gen. It has a conversion gain of about 16 to 17dB. The specs say 20dB. This does seem to be too bad. I checked the front end RF circuit out by feeding in a -80dBm signal from HP8657B signal generator set to 432.300MHz. The ATF34143 seems to have a net gain of 11dB. The next MMIC MAV11 seems to have a gain of 10.5dB. Are these within spec? If I can fix it without altering the circuit, that would be ideal. Else, I am considering two mods: Replace the MAV11 (10 to 12db gain in specs) with MAR8 (27dB gain) with appropriate change in the bias resistor (120 1W to 270 ohms 1/4W)Insert a W6PQL LNA (uses PGA103+) between K10 and the ATF on board. Thoughts/ideas are very welcome, __ 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] XV432 deaf
Raj, Has this XV432 worked before and recently developed weak receive? If so, try peaking the RX input capacitor, and if that does not correct it, replace the PHEMT (ATF34143). If you recently acquired it, check the configuration jumpers for the 28 MHz IF - do you have a single coax and it is configured for separate TX and RX IF (or vice-versa)? 73, Don W3FPR On 5/12/2019 1:44 PM, Rajiv Dewan wrote: Dear all, I have a XV432 that seems deaf compared to my ICOM IC-7000. When I tune to a local beacon on 432.300 MHz, I can copy it clearly on the IC but nothing is heard on the XV432/K3 with KXV3B. I checked transverter set up by feeding it a signal from a signal gen. It has a conversion gain of about 16 to 17dB. The specs say 20dB. This does seem to be too bad. I checked the front end RF circuit out by feeding in a -80dBm signal from HP8657B signal generator set to 432.300MHz. The ATF34143 seems to have a net gain of 11dB. The next MMIC MAV11 seems to have a gain of 10.5dB. Are these within spec? If I can fix it without altering the circuit, that would be ideal. Else, I am considering two mods: Replace the MAV11 (10 to 12db gain in specs) with MAR8 (27dB gain) with appropriate change in the bias resistor (120 1W to 270 ohms 1/4W)Insert a W6PQL LNA (uses PGA103+) between K10 and the ATF on board. Thoughts/ideas are very welcome, __ 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] XV432 deaf
Dear all, I have a XV432 that seems deaf compared to my ICOM IC-7000. When I tune to a local beacon on 432.300 MHz, I can copy it clearly on the IC but nothing is heard on the XV432/K3 with KXV3B. I checked transverter set up by feeding it a signal from a signal gen. It has a conversion gain of about 16 to 17dB. The specs say 20dB. This does seem to be too bad. I checked the front end RF circuit out by feeding in a -80dBm signal from HP8657B signal generator set to 432.300MHz. The ATF34143 seems to have a net gain of 11dB. The next MMIC MAV11 seems to have a gain of 10.5dB. Are these within spec? If I can fix it without altering the circuit, that would be ideal. Else, I am considering two mods: Replace the MAV11 (10 to 12db gain in specs) with MAR8 (27dB gain) with appropriate change in the bias resistor (120 1W to 270 ohms 1/4W)Insert a W6PQL LNA (uses PGA103+) between K10 and the ATF on board. Thoughts/ideas are very welcome, Raj -- Raj Dewan, N2RD __ 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] XV432 LO changed to DigiLo Synthesizer
Little typo with big impact The line I recently integrated a DigiLo 6GHz PLL synthesizer with a 10Mhz double oven OCXO into my 10GHz system and it is no rock solid. Should be Should be I recently integrated a DigiLo 6GHz PLL synthesizer with a 10Mhz double oven OCXO into my 10GHz system and it is NOW rock solid. It works well… From: Mike Lewis Sent: Saturday, March 2, 2019 19:35 To: 'elecraft@mailman.qth.net' Subject: XV432 LO changed to DigiLo Synthesizer A few days ago I tried FT-8 on 432 and discovered that my LO was not stable, hopping around several Hz plus drifting up to 40Hz . The 9V LO power was flat in both TX an RX, oven working. pushed, prodded, re-soldered, tuned, detuned, no change. I recently integrated a DigiLo 6GHz PLL synthesizer with a 10Mhz double oven OCXO into my 10GHz system and it is no rock solid. It has 255 preprogrammed frequencies, 404MHz being #2. So today I removed C82 (coupling cap to L5 filter section) and U2 (the LO 78L09 regulator). Drilled a hole near the power connector for a small SMA bulkhead connector. RG316 run from that to the C80 side of C82 PCB pad, soldered the shield to the L3 can. Set LO power jumper block to 1-2 so only on when the XV432 is selected. Nothing to warm up inside the XV432 any longer. The oven still powers up, but the rest of the LO is powered down so no matter. I wanted to keep all the parts inside and this can be backed out easily. I soldered the 78L09 to the nearby ground test clip loop so it could be found easily someday. The Digilo is around +2dBm output and the XV432 mixer wants closer to 17dBm. Fortunately there is a MMIC amp between the LO filter and mixer (fed from the LO power jumper blocks). Feeding the Digilo at C80 runs it through L5 filter section and TP1 is at 3.1VDC. Good enough. Happy to say it is working great, super weak beacons I was hearing before are now spot on, 0 drift, and the K3 offset correction (XVx OFS) is set to 0. Next up is to package the DigiLo and OCXO into a standalone metal case, add logic (CPU or 8-3bit encoder) to read the band decoder to auto set the correct LO frequency for different transverters. I am using my KRC2 -> TTL SP4T coax relay control lines for that. Will also add a manual programming switch. Then will convert the XV22 and my DEMI 902 an 1296 transverters, and of course the 10GHz system. I previously changed the PA module from the Toshiba to the Mitsubishi module. Retuned the front end, it is ready for FT-8 and other digital modes now. Mike, K7MDL __ 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] XV432 LO changed to DigiLo Synthesizer
A few days ago I tried FT-8 on 432 and discovered that my LO was not stable, hopping around several Hz plus drifting up to 40Hz . The 9V LO power was flat in both TX an RX, oven working. pushed, prodded, re-soldered, tuned, detuned, no change. I recently integrated a DigiLo 6GHz PLL synthesizer with a 10Mhz double oven OCXO into my 10GHz system and it is no rock solid. It has 255 preprogrammed frequencies, 404MHz being #2. So today I removed C82 (coupling cap to L5 filter section) and U2 (the LO 78L09 regulator). Drilled a hole near the power connector for a small SMA bulkhead connector. RG316 run from that to the C80 side of C82 PCB pad, soldered the shield to the L3 can. Set LO power jumper block to 1-2 so only on when the XV432 is selected. Nothing to warm up inside the XV432 any longer. The oven still powers up, but the rest of the LO is powered down so no matter. I wanted to keep all the parts inside and this can be backed out easily. I soldered the 78L09 to the nearby ground test clip loop so it could be found easily someday. The Digilo is around +2dBm output and the XV432 mixer wants closer to 17dBm. Fortunately there is a MMIC amp between the LO filter and mixer (fed from the LO power jumper blocks). Feeding the Digilo at C80 runs it through L5 filter section and TP1 is at 3.1VDC. Good enough. Happy to say it is working great, super weak beacons I was hearing before are now spot on, 0 drift, and the K3 offset correction (XVx OFS) is set to 0. Next up is to package the DigiLo and OCXO into a standalone metal case, add logic (CPU or 8-3bit encoder) to read the band decoder to auto set the correct LO frequency for different transverters. I am using my KRC2 -> TTL SP4T coax relay control lines for that. Will also add a manual programming switch. Then will convert the XV22 and my DEMI 902 an 1296 transverters, and of course the 10GHz system. I previously changed the PA module from the Toshiba to the Mitsubishi module. Retuned the front end, it is ready for FT-8 and other digital modes now. Mike, K7MDL __ 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] XV432
Ah, I did wonder. I think I got very lucky, a UK ham has offered to sell me one in the spring. Feeling very happy. 73 de David, M0XDF (K3 #174, P3 #108) -- Experience is that marvellous thing that enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again. -Franklin P. Jones > On 25 Nov 2017, at 14:41, Don Wilhelmwrote: > > David, > > The XV432 was discontinued because some of the critical parts are no > longer available. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > > On 11/24/2017 6:18 PM, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: >> That’s a shame, that was going to be a purchase next year. Did Elecraft >> discontinue this because it wasn’t selling? >> > __ 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] XV432
David, The XV432 was discontinued because some of the critical parts are no longer available. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/24/2017 6:18 PM, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: That’s a shame, that was going to be a purchase next year. Did Elecraft discontinue this because it wasn’t selling? __ 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] XV432
Just sold mine today. I guess I could have asked for a lot more for it but I'm not the opportunistic type. 73, KenVE3HLS Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android On Fri, 24 Nov 2017 at 18:18, David Ferrington, M0XDFwrote: That’s a shame, that was going to be a purchase next year. Did Elecraft discontinue this because it wasn’t selling? Anyone got one they want to sell? -73 de M0XDF (from my iPhone) > On 24 Nov 2017, at 22:18, Don Wilhelm wrote: > > David, > > Yes, the XV432 has been discontinued. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > >> On 11/24/2017 5:09 PM, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: >> Just looking at Elecraft's order page - no they no long manufacture the >> XV432? __ 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.alexan...@rogers.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] XV432
That’s a shame, that was going to be a purchase next year. Did Elecraft discontinue this because it wasn’t selling? Anyone got one they want to sell? -73 de M0XDF (from my iPhone) > On 24 Nov 2017, at 22:18, Don Wilhelmwrote: > > David, > > Yes, the XV432 has been discontinued. > > 73, > Don W3FPR > >> On 11/24/2017 5:09 PM, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: >> Just looking at Elecraft's order page - no they no long manufacture the >> XV432? __ 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] XV432
David, Yes, the XV432 has been discontinued. 73, Don W3FPR On 11/24/2017 5:09 PM, David Ferrington, M0XDF wrote: Just looking at Elecraft's order page - no they no long manufacture the XV432? __ 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] XV432
Just looking at Elecraft's order page - no they no long manufacture the XV432? 73 de David, M0XDF (K3 #174, P3 #108) __ 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] XV432 Trips Off on Tranmit
My XV432 transporter has suddenly developed a serious problem. Receive mode works fine, but when I try to transmit, it instantly shuts down, apparently because of a bad SWR mismatch or similar problem. I’ve checked my cables, and replaced them. I’ve checked all the settings on the Main Menu. I’ve tried with two different antennas and a dummy load, and with differing coax cables. I’ve checked all the on-board coax plugs on the KIO3 board, checked to make sure the KIO3 board is properly seated, etc. Transmit power is set at 0.1 watt. Nothing resolves the problem. Any suggestions as to what I have failed to look for? Any suggestions as to how I can differentiate between transverter problem and a KIO3 problem? Thanks in advance for any assistance. Lew Lew Phelps N6LEW Pasadena, CA DM04wd Elecraft K3-10 / KXV144 / XV432 Yaesu FT-7800 l...@n6lew.us www.n6lew.us Sent from my Mac Pro 256-Array Supercomputer (9.42 teraflops) __ 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] XV432 Trips Off on Tranmit
Make that read “transverter” in first line. Thanks a lot to Apple auto spelling correction…. Lew Phelps N6LEW Pasadena, CA DM04wd Elecraft K3-10 / KXV144 / XV432 Yaesu FT-7800 l...@n6lew.us www.n6lew.us Sent from my Mac Pro 256-Array Supercomputer (9.42 teraflops) On Feb 25, 2015, at 9:48 PM, Lewis Phelps l...@n6lew.us wrote: My XV432 transporter has suddenly developed a serious problem. Receive mode works fine, but when I try to transmit, it instantly shuts down, apparently because of a bad SWR mismatch or similar problem. I’ve checked my cables, and replaced them. I’ve checked all the settings on the Main Menu. I’ve tried with two different antennas and a dummy load, and with differing coax cables. I’ve checked all the on-board coax plugs on the KIO3 board, checked to make sure the KIO3 board is properly seated, etc. Transmit power is set at 0.1 watt. Nothing resolves the problem. Any suggestions as to what I have failed to look for? Any suggestions as to how I can differentiate between transverter problem and a KIO3 problem? Thanks in advance for any assistance. Lew Lew Phelps N6LEW Pasadena, CA DM04wd Elecraft K3-10 / KXV144 / XV432 Yaesu FT-7800 l...@n6lew.us mailto:l...@n6lew.us www.n6lew.us http://www.n6lew.us/ Sent from my Mac Pro 256-Array Supercomputer (9.42 teraflops) __ 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] XV432 and EME
Hi, Anyone using the XV432 for EME? Issues? Regards, Mike VP8NO __ 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] XV432 - Is L19 red,orange or yellow?
Hi folks, I'm working on my XV432 kit this weekend. I ordered the high accuracy crystal and the crystal oven options as well. I'm on page 31 of the XV432 manual, where it is asking me to locate L4 and L19 for installation. I see that L19 appears to get replaced when installing the high accuracy crystal option. The manual says: L4 has an orange body with four turns. (It looks red to me and it has 3.5 turns, close enough I guess) L19 has a yellow body with four turns. (I count 4.5 turns, _definitely_ one more turn than L4. At least it's yellow) The installation instructions that come with the high accuracy crystal option say to remove L19 from the circuit board. Since I'm just about to install it this seems like a good time to make the substitution. EXCEPT, it says that L19 has a RED plastic coil form, not yellow like the XV432 manual says. I do note that the substitute coil that comes in the high accuracy crystal option is yellow and has exactly the same 4.5 turns as the yellow bodied coil called L19 in the XV432 assembly manual. I assume the error is in the instruction sheet for the high accuracy crystal option, and that they meant to say that L19 is yellow and not red. However, I'd feel safer if someone who has built one before could kindly confirm this. The second thing that bothers me is why does one 4-turn inductor have one more turn than the other 4-turn inductor? Any assistance will be gratefully accepted. Thanks and 73, Ken Alexander VE3HLS __ 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] XV432 - Is L19 red,orange or yellow?
Ken, If you have a recent XV432 (within the past 2 months), it is being shipped with the High Accuracy crystal. Look at the markings on the crystal that came with the XV432, and compare it with the crystal shipped with the High Accuracy Kit - if it is the same, you can put either crystal in and Check L19 as well, they should be the same. In other words, the High Accuracy Kit is a retrofit for older XV432 transverters, and is not necessary for new ones. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/30/2014 6:26 PM, Ken Alexander wrote: Hi folks, I'm working on my XV432 kit this weekend. I ordered the high accuracy crystal and the crystal oven options as well. I'm on page 31 of the XV432 manual, where it is asking me to locate L4 and L19 for installation. I see that L19 appears to get replaced when installing the high accuracy crystal option. The manual says: L4 has an orange body with four turns. (It looks red to me and it has 3.5 turns, close enough I guess) L19 has a yellow body with four turns. (I count 4.5 turns, _definitely_ one more turn than L4. At least it's yellow) The installation instructions that come with the high accuracy crystal option say to remove L19 from the circuit board. Since I'm just about to install it this seems like a good time to make the substitution. EXCEPT, it says that L19 has a RED plastic coil form, not yellow like the XV432 manual says. I do note that the substitute coil that comes in the high accuracy crystal option is yellow and has exactly the same 4.5 turns as the yellow bodied coil called L19 in the XV432 assembly manual. I assume the error is in the instruction sheet for the high accuracy crystal option, and that they meant to say that L19 is yellow and not red. However, I'd feel safer if someone who has built one before could kindly confirm this. The second thing that bothers me is why does one 4-turn inductor have one more turn than the other 4-turn inductor? Any assistance will be gratefully accepted. Thanks and 73, Ken Alexander VE3HLS __ 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 w3...@embarqmail.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
[Elecraft] XV432 Demon Exorcism Operations
Hi Gang, I have an XV432 that is giving me fits. While my XV222 works FB with my K3/KXV3 combo, or any other IF rig for that matter, the XV432 has only worked well with my FT817 and 5W drive. While getting stuff together for the August UHF Contest, I now cannot even run the XV432 with the K3 because as soon as I select it, the radio locks up. The display is on but the buttons on the radio do nothing. The only remedy is to put the power cord from the radio and disconnect the I/O cable. Does not matter which of the 2 transverter ends on the cable I use. Again, the XV222 is FB and 432 won’t work. Some Googling turned up NT4RT who gave a paper at the 2012 SVHFS conference on a bunch of mods for the XV432 to make it work better. Lots of ground via connections, connector rework stuff and loads of changing signal paths by scraping solder mask and cutting traces. All very involved. I have the paper in my Evernote account and will share if you have not seen it, pending NT4RT’s approval. I’m not sure it he wants it to be “public”. My unit has the errata items performed along with an input filter at the TX1 connection described by a DL ham IIRC. So, here are my questions. 1. Is anyone using their K3 with the XV432 in original as-built condition with good success? No self oscillation or other issues? 2. What mods did you make to tame the demons, if any? I’m to the point where I need to decide: A. Fix this one which may take A LONG TIME. But that gives me a K3/XV222 and 432 for 6/222/432 in the rear position of my rover with one headphone, one key, yada yada. B. Ditch the XV432 and use my FT100D as my 6/222/432. This is a pain because running on 6 and 432 key 222. I’ve run into problems doing this and it really requires that the XV222 be turned OFF except when in use. I suppose I could build a switch that would power up the XV222 when I’ve selected the 28MHz band on the 100D. C: Build another XV432 and use the current one for spare parts. Your ideas are greatly welcome. -- 73, Mark K2QO __ 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] XV432 Demon Exorcism Operations
Mark, I cannot identify exactly with your problem statement (K3 locks up), but I can give you a few suggestions that may help if you are willing to experiment a bit. First of all, you can try putting a low pass filter between the XV432 and the K3 low power TX output. The one I use is a Mini-Circuits BLP-30+, but any LPF with a cutoff in the 30 to 36 MHz range should work just as well (it would not hurt to include in the coax to the other transverters as well if the IF cables are daisy-chained). The purpose is to eliminate any 432 MHz energy from getting back into the K3. Normally the symptoms are only that the transverter TX output is 'fooled' into thinking there is 28 MHz power when actually there is very little - but your symptoms seem to be more severe. It may be worth a try in any case. The 2nd is the power output module in the XV432 itself. That module was changed about 6 months (maybe a year, my memory for dates is short). The older module was an SAU82L and the new module is E600120 RA30H4047M1 High Power Module. The new metal shielded module prevents self oscillation as well as having much better linearity than the older module. My suspicion is that 432 MHz energy is getting back into your K3 and causing the difficulties. Check your XV432 output connector - it *must* be mounted with the flange on the outside of the rear panel. Also check that the paint has been removed from all the XV432 panels where they contact the 2D connectors. The is important for proper shielding of the XV432. While that is applicable to all the XVxxx series transverters, it is critical for the XV432. 73, Don W3FPR On 7/26/2014 8:15 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Hi Gang, I have an XV432 that is giving me fits. While my XV222 works FB with my K3/KXV3 combo, or any other IF rig for that matter, the XV432 has only worked well with my FT817 and 5W drive. While getting stuff together for the August UHF Contest, I now cannot even run the XV432 with the K3 because as soon as I select it, the radio locks up. The display is on but the buttons on the radio do nothing. The only remedy is to put the power cord from the radio and disconnect the I/O cable. Does not matter which of the 2 transverter ends on the cable I use. Again, the XV222 is FB and 432 won’t work. Some Googling turned up NT4RT who gave a paper at the 2012 SVHFS conference on a bunch of mods for the XV432 to make it work better. Lots of ground via connections, connector rework stuff and loads of changing signal paths by scraping solder mask and cutting traces. All very involved. I have the paper in my Evernote account and will share if you have not seen it, pending NT4RT’s approval. I’m not sure it he wants it to be “public”. My unit has the errata items performed along with an input filter at the TX1 connection described by a DL ham IIRC. __ 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] XV432 Demon Exorcism Operations
Many have asked and KT4RT said it is OK to make his XV432 mods public, so here you go! https://www.evernote.com/shard/s88/sh/b4588946-8e2c-4cc5-aee4-a84aaee62655/88ef921572b978f00b25f512e1c693cd Mark Adams, K2QO FN03ra Sent from my iPad __ 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] [XV432] Demand of time to build?
Hi, How long does it take to build a XV432-Transverter? vy 73 de Helmut - DL2MAJ - __ 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] [XV432] Demand of time to build?
Helmut, My best estimate is 8 to 12 hours depending on your skill level. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/21/2013 9:14 AM, Helmut Berka wrote: How long does it take to build a XV432-Transverter? __ 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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
Hi Ian, I had exactly the same problem with my XV 432 and scratched my head for some time. The outcome was that I had during construction switched the coils to be used for L4 and L19 (the two unshielded coils). This had the effect of not allowing me to set the LO on frequency. it would slide off either side of the wanted frequency and the crystal appeared damped and would stop oscillating. Once I swapped the inductors over and re-aligned it would sit on fequency perfectly once warmed up. I fully recomend the crystal oven and high accuracy crystal and leaving the oven on all the time using the jumpers. 73 Guy G0UKN -- View this message in context: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/XV432-LO-Instability-Problem-tp7569117p7570425.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] XV432 - No intermediate pwr output
I purchased this unit used ( nice workmanship) and it seems to work well in all respects except as noted below. I must add that the prior owner told me up front that there was an issue with its power. However, when I first put it online line it seemed to work ok. Originally I used it with my K2/100 to drive a Mirage D1010 (100w) in ssb mode. As time passed, the unit started to show signs of loss of power similar to a high swr turn back or high heat shutoff and I attributed it to a failing relay in the Mirage, which I cleaned and the system seemed to again work ok for a while. After a reoccurrence, I switched to another rig for my 432 activities and let the XV432 sit on the shelf while I mulled the issue. I now have a Flex 5000 online and in the process of interfacing the XV432 with good results except for the old issue again and I'm determined to figure out the problem since it really seems to be the transverter and not the K2 or Mirage. The setup; Flex 5000 Single coax interface RCA keyline XV432 Bird 43 (25W slug) Bird dummy load Here's what I've found; 1) As I start the Flexs' drive, the XV432 output turns on at 0w then continues to increase to 2.5w then 'shuts off' and power drops to 0. 2) As I continue to increase the drive, the output power again turns on at about 15w and increases to 20w +. I've looked all over the internet for a similar problem but don't find anything. Maybe someone out there can point me in the right direction before really hitting the books and at my age gray matter is in short supply ;0). Thanks in advance for any help. 73 Tom W4TMW __ 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] XV432 - No intermediate pwr output
Tom, That is really weird behavior. It should be linear. What is the power level from the Flex for a full 20 watts output? I am going to assume that the XV432 LEDs show you the proper power output - if not, calibrate the LEDs at 20 watts output (Power Cal pot in the left rear quadrant) so you can use the LEDs to monitor the output while you temporarily move the Bird wattmeter between the Flex and the XV432. The only thing I can think of is that the Local Oscillator in the XV432 is dropping out. You can remove the top cover and monitor the DC voltage at the test point near the front center. You will have to catch it in the act, so keep transmission times short to keep from overheating the XV432. There is one other potential problem, if you are using transverter IF output from the Flex, and that is that some 432 MHz energy is getting back into the Flex and fooling its power output mechanism into thinking there is more 28 MHz drive than actually exists. The answer to that problem is to insert a Low Pass Filter with a cutoff somewhere between 30 MHz and 50 MHz between the Flex and the XV432. 73, Don W3FPR On 2/4/2013 3:15 PM, Tom Warren wrote: I purchased this unit used ( nice workmanship) and it seems to work well in all respects except as noted below. I must add that the prior owner told me up front that there was an issue with its power. However, when I first put it online line it seemed to work ok. Originally I used it with my K2/100 to drive a Mirage D1010 (100w) in ssb mode. As time passed, the unit started to show signs of loss of power similar to a high swr turn back or high heat shutoff and I attributed it to a failing relay in the Mirage, which I cleaned and the system seemed to again work ok for a while. After a reoccurrence, I switched to another rig for my 432 activities and let the XV432 sit on the shelf while I mulled the issue. I now have a Flex 5000 online and in the process of interfacing the XV432 with good results except for the old issue again and I'm determined to figure out the problem since it really seems to be the transverter and not the K2 or Mirage. The setup; Flex 5000 Single coax interface RCA keyline XV432 Bird 43 (25W slug) Bird dummy load Here's what I've found; 1) As I start the Flexs' drive, the XV432 output turns on at 0w then continues to increase to 2.5w then 'shuts off' and power drops to 0. 2) As I continue to increase the drive, the output power again turns on at about 15w and increases to 20w +. I've looked all over the internet for a similar problem but don't find anything. Maybe someone out there can point me in the right direction before really hitting the books and at my age gray matter is in short supply ;0). Thanks in advance for any help. 73 Tom W4TMW __ 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] XV432 - No intermediate pwr output
I had a similar problem with my XV432. I was able to chase the problem to the tx driver stage. The fix was to add ground vias from the top to the bottom of the board in a few judicious places. I passed this info back to Gary at Elecraft. I know of at least one other XV432 that has been stabilized by this method. I don't see those mods in the latest XV432 errata sheet, perhaps they vias have been added to the latest circuit board or they have found other ways to cure the problem.73, Mike, W3IP --- On Mon, 2/4/13, Tom Warren mtn...@hartcom.net wrote: From: Tom Warren mtn...@hartcom.net Subject: [Elecraft] XV432 - No intermediate pwr output To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Monday, February 4, 2013, 8:15 PM I purchased this unit used ( nice workmanship) and it seems to work well in all respects except as noted below. I must add that the prior owner told me up front that there was an issue with its power. However, when I first put it online line it seemed to work ok. Originally I used it with my K2/100 to drive a Mirage D1010 (100w) in ssb mode. As time passed, the unit started to show signs of loss of power similar to a high swr turn back or high heat shutoff and I attributed it to a failing relay in the Mirage, which I cleaned and the system seemed to again work ok for a while. After a reoccurrence, I switched to another rig for my 432 activities and let the XV432 sit on the shelf while I mulled the issue. I now have a Flex 5000 online and in the process of interfacing the XV432 with good results except for the old issue again and I'm determined to figure out the problem since it really seems to be the transverter and not the K2 or Mirage. The setup; Flex 5000 Single coax interface RCA keyline XV432 Bird 43 (25W slug) Bird dummy load Here's what I've found; 1) As I start the Flexs' drive, the XV432 output turns on at 0w then continues to increase to 2.5w then 'shuts off' and power drops to 0. 2) As I continue to increase the drive, the output power again turns on at about 15w and increases to 20w +. I've looked all over the internet for a similar problem but don't find anything. Maybe someone out there can point me in the right direction before really hitting the books and at my age gray matter is in short supply ;0). Thanks in advance for any help. 73 Tom W4TMW __ 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] XV432 - No intermediate pwr output
Hello Mike, You are probably correct. XV432 had had problems in power and frequency stability. However, with the evolution of time, elecraft has found out the ways to solve the problems. I experienced similar problems in XV144 though not so serious as XV432 TNX 73, Johnny VR2XMC 寄件人︰ M Cresap m.cre...@yahoo.com 收件人︰ Tom Warren mtn...@hartcom.net 副本(CC)︰ elecraft@mailman.qth.net 傳送日期︰ 2013年02月5日 (週二) 9:21 AM 主題︰ Re: [Elecraft] XV432 - No intermediate pwr output I had a similar problem with my XV432. I was able to chase the problem to the tx driver stage. The fix was to add ground vias from the top to the bottom of the board in a few judicious places. I passed this info back to Gary at Elecraft. I know of at least one other XV432 that has been stabilized by this method. I don't see those mods in the latest XV432 errata sheet, perhaps they vias have been added to the latest circuit board or they have found other ways to cure the problem.73, Mike, W3IP --- On Mon, 2/4/13, Tom Warren mtn...@hartcom.net wrote: From: Tom Warren mtn...@hartcom.net Subject: [Elecraft] XV432 - No intermediate pwr output To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Monday, February 4, 2013, 8:15 PM I purchased this unit used ( nice workmanship) and it seems to work well in all respects except as noted below. I must add that the prior owner told me up front that there was an issue with its power. However, when I first put it online line it seemed to work ok. Originally I used it with my K2/100 to drive a Mirage D1010 (100w) in ssb mode. As time passed, the unit started to show signs of loss of power similar to a high swr turn back or high heat shutoff and I attributed it to a failing relay in the Mirage, which I cleaned and the system seemed to again work ok for a while. After a reoccurrence, I switched to another rig for my 432 activities and let the XV432 sit on the shelf while I mulled the issue. I now have a Flex 5000 online and in the process of interfacing the XV432 with good results except for the old issue again and I'm determined to figure out the problem since it really seems to be the transverter and not the K2 or Mirage. The setup; Flex 5000 Single coax interface RCA keyline XV432 Bird 43 (25W slug) Bird dummy load Here's what I've found; 1) As I start the Flexs' drive, the XV432 output turns on at 0w then continues to increase to 2.5w then 'shuts off' and power drops to 0. 2) As I continue to increase the drive, the output power again turns on at about 15w and increases to 20w +. I've looked all over the internet for a similar problem but don't find anything. Maybe someone out there can point me in the right direction before really hitting the books and at my age gray matter is in short supply ;0). Thanks in advance for any help. 73 Tom W4TMW __ 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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
Hello Ian, Comments below On Fri, Jan 25, 2013 at 8:48 AM, Ian Greenshields ian.greenshie...@gmail.com wrote: Thanks for all the help and comments received so far, on and off reflector - I have to say the responsiveness and quality of help on this reflector is second to none! To summarise: 1. I have tried detuning L4, along with L3 and L5. L4 is very sensitive as is probably to be expected, L3 and L5 somewhat less so. The most stable point of L4 does seem to coincide with the peak in voltage at TP1, and detuning L3 and L5 doesn't seem to make much difference. The problem is that the voltage at TP1 can easily reach 4v or higher, and the LO is definitely less stable if I detune it to keep the voltage below 3v. 2. Is a voltage well above 3v at TP1 a problem? It seems to be just a detector diode circuit on the output of the LO, so I presume a fair amount of variation is to be expected. This is not a problem. You are correct there can be considerable variation from unit to unit and crystal to crystal. 3. The crystal seems mechanically stable in that tapping it doesn't send the frequency all over the place, but it is highly sensitive to being touched, which I assume is heating effect, Likely correct. The oven will make a very large improvement 4. The biggest single improvement was a suggestion to ground the can of the crystal. This is something very familiar to any K2 builder. I grounded the crystal can, K2 filter style, to the oven -ve pad, which was the closest ground point. Huge improvement. The frequency jumping has gone, although there is still significant drift, even long after warm-up. 5. I then tried readjusting L3, L4 L5 to see if detuning the voltage to about 2.5v at TP1 helped now that the oscillator seemed more stable. This seemed to be a backward step as the LO lurched down about 10kHz in frequency, started to drift back up, but then actually stopped oscillating. Restoring L3, L4 and L5 to the point where the voltage at TP1 peaks - about 4v - seems to be the most stable point the LO starts up fine. From switch on it drifts about 3kHz low, then as it warms up, it starts to drift HF until about 3 or 4kHz above the switch-on point. Tune for a peak 6. If my unit is normal, the oven would seem an essential. As I want to use the transverter on SSB, I can't really live with a drift range of 7kHz! 7. What is the view on grounding the crystal can? It does seem to help tremendously with the stability (and I mean the 'crystal mode' stability, just to differentiate from drift). I would order a second crystal along with the oven and first try it without grounding the can. If it still is necessary to ground the can then do it at the bottom near the pc board so that you can install the oven. I would also utilize the option to leave the oscillator and its oven on continuously. This option is explained in the manual. Bob, N6CM __ 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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
The LO on my XV432 transverter seems to be very unstable. I think it's something more than just temperature drift as the frequency will sometimes jump by several kHz. It's almost as if the crystal is hunting between different modes of oscillation. Prodding wiggling the components in the LO circuit doesn't point to any obvious poor connection, although the crystal itself is sensitive to being touched, or heated by a finger. The LO alignment voltage at TP1 peaks at about 3.3V. I don't have the temperature oven for the crystal, although I think it's a requirement. But I'm concerned about the frequency jumping and a frequency drift of almost 10kHz which I would not expect even of a non-temperature controlled crystal oscillator. Any thoughts or pointers as to what could be wrong? TIA, Ian G4FSU __ 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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
Ian, Two possibilities occur to me. First, detune the LO inductors L3, L4 and L5 a bit to give you 3 volts maximum at TP1 and see if it stabilizes. Secondly, try adjusting L4 a bit. It may be that the adjustment of L4 puts the crystal right on the 'hairy' edge of oscillation which would make the frequency unstable. The voltage at TP1 should remain between 1.7 and 3.0 volts. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/25/2013 3:40 AM, Ian Greenshields wrote: The LO on my XV432 transverter seems to be very unstable. I think it's something more than just temperature drift as the frequency will sometimes jump by several kHz. It's almost as if the crystal is hunting between different modes of oscillation. Prodding wiggling the components in the LO circuit doesn't point to any obvious poor connection, although the crystal itself is sensitive to being touched, or heated by a finger. The LO alignment voltage at TP1 peaks at about 3.3V. I don't have the temperature oven for the crystal, although I think it's a requirement. But I'm concerned about the frequency jumping and a frequency drift of almost 10kHz which I would not expect even of a non-temperature controlled crystal oscillator. Any thoughts or pointers as to what could be wrong? TIA, Ian G4FSU __ 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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
Wasn't there some issue with the 78L09 at some point? I seem to recall replacing the low-power versions with standard 7809s .. I'd have to pop them open to check de w1rt/john On Fri, Jan 25, 2013 at 9:01 AM, Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Ian, Two possibilities occur to me. First, detune the LO inductors L3, L4 and L5 a bit to give you 3 volts maximum at TP1 and see if it stabilizes. Secondly, try adjusting L4 a bit. It may be that the adjustment of L4 puts the crystal right on the 'hairy' edge of oscillation which would make the frequency unstable. The voltage at TP1 should remain between 1.7 and 3.0 volts. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/25/2013 3:40 AM, Ian Greenshields wrote: The LO on my XV432 transverter seems to be very unstable. I think it's something more than just temperature drift as the frequency will sometimes jump by several kHz. It's almost as if the crystal is hunting between different modes of oscillation. Prodding wiggling the components in the LO circuit doesn't point to any obvious poor connection, although the crystal itself is sensitive to being touched, or heated by a finger. The LO alignment voltage at TP1 peaks at about 3.3V. I don't have the temperature oven for the crystal, although I think it's a requirement. But I'm concerned about the frequency jumping and a frequency drift of almost 10kHz which I would not expect even of a non-temperature controlled crystal oscillator. Any thoughts or pointers as to what could be wrong? TIA, Ian G4FSU __ 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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
Not true on any XV series transverter I have worked on. The leads of a 7809 would not fit the board. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/25/2013 9:14 AM, John D'Ausilio wrote: Wasn't there some issue with the 78L09 at some point? I seem to recall replacing the low-power versions with standard 7809s .. I'd have to pop them open to check de w1rt/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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
Ian, Does the LO frequency jump if you tap the crystal's can using a plastic rod such as an alignment tool or pencil? If it does, and if all of the soldered connections in the LO's circuit are sound, the jump and drift are most likely caused by some mechanical fault within the crystal assembly itself. The only cure in such cases is to replace the crystal. 73, Geoff LX2AO On January 25, 2013 at 9:40 AM, Ian Greenshields wrote: The LO on my XV432 transverter seems to be very unstable. I think it's something more than just temperature drift as the frequency will sometimes jump by several kHz. It's almost as if the crystal is hunting between different modes of oscillation. Prodding wiggling the components in the LO circuit doesn't point to any obvious poor connection, although the crystal itself is sensitive to being touched, or heated by a finger. The LO alignment voltage at TP1 peaks at about 3.3V. I don't have the temperature oven for the crystal, although I think it's a requirement. But I'm concerned about the frequency jumping and a frequency drift of almost 10kHz which I would not expect even of a non-temperature controlled crystal oscillator. Any thoughts or pointers as to what could be wrong? TIA, Ian G4FSU __ 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] [XV432} LO Instability Problem
Thanks for all the help and comments received so far, on and off reflector - I have to say the responsiveness and quality of help on this reflector is second to none! To summarise: 1. I have tried detuning L4, along with L3 and L5. L4 is very sensitive as is probably to be expected, L3 and L5 somewhat less so. The most stable point of L4 does seem to coincide with the peak in voltage at TP1, and detuning L3 and L5 doesn't seem to make much difference. The problem is that the voltage at TP1 can easily reach 4v or higher, and the LO is definitely less stable if I detune it to keep the voltage below 3v. 2. Is a voltage well above 3v at TP1 a problem? It seems to be just a detector diode circuit on the output of the LO, so I presume a fair amount of variation is to be expected. 3. The crystal seems mechanically stable in that tapping it doesn't send the frequency all over the place, but it is highly sensitive to being touched, which I assume is heating effect, 4. The biggest single improvement was a suggestion to ground the can of the crystal. This is something very familiar to any K2 builder. I grounded the crystal can, K2 filter style, to the oven -ve pad, which was the closest ground point. Huge improvement. The frequency jumping has gone, although there is still significant drift, even long after warm-up. 5. I then tried readjusting L3, L4 L5 to see if detuning the voltage to about 2.5v at TP1 helped now that the oscillator seemed more stable. This seemed to be a backward step as the LO lurched down about 10kHz in frequency, started to drift back up, but then actually stopped oscillating. Restoring L3, L4 and L5 to the point where the voltage at TP1 peaks - about 4v - seems to be the most stable point the LO starts up fine. From switch on it drifts about 3kHz low, then as it warms up, it starts to drift HF until about 3 or 4kHz above the switch-on point. 6. If my unit is normal, the oven would seem an essential. As I want to use the transverter on SSB, I can't really live with a drift range of 7kHz! 7. What is the view on grounding the crystal can? It does seem to help tremendously with the stability (and I mean the 'crystal mode' stability, just to differentiate from drift). I think my next step is to order the oven (I'm going to have fun fitting that now I've grounded the can!) possibly another crystal. 73 Ian G4FSU On 25 January 2013 14:01, Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Ian, Two possibilities occur to me. First, detune the LO inductors L3, L4 and L5 a bit to give you 3 volts maximum at TP1 and see if it stabilizes. Secondly, try adjusting L4 a bit. It may be that the adjustment of L4 puts the crystal right on the 'hairy' edge of oscillation which would make the frequency unstable. The voltage at TP1 should remain between 1.7 and 3.0 volts. 73, Don W3FPR __ 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] XV432 kit
Are XV432 kits still avaliable? WTB and assemble one before IARU R1 UHF championship in October 73 Vic US5WE/K1WE (UW5W in VHF contests) KN29AU UARL VHF committee Chairman, UARL Lvov Branch LKK Moderator, UARL VHF portal http://www.vhfdx.at.ua DXCC card checker in Ukraine __ 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] XV432 kit
In a recent message, Vic Goncharsky us...@yahoo.com writes Are XV432 kits still avaliable? WTB and assemble one before IARU R1 UHF championship in October Yes, Vic, you can see them listed at... http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm#xvs 73 de David G4DMP -- + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + | David M Pratt, Kippax, Leeds. | | Website: http://www.g4dmp.co.uk | + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + __ 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] XV432 kit
Hi Dave, It doesn't say KIT in there, I checked this b4 writing to the reflector. 73 Vic From: David Pratt da...@g4dmp.fsnet.co.uk To: Vic Goncharsky us...@yahoo.com Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, August 10, 2012 11:59 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 kit In a recent message, Vic Goncharsky us...@yahoo.com writes Are XV432 kits still avaliable? WTB and assemble one before IARU R1 UHF championship in October Yes, Vic, you can see them listed at... http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm#xvs 73 de David G4DMP -- + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + | David M Pratt, Kippax, Leeds. | | Website: http://www.g4dmp.co.uk | + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + __ 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] XV432 kit
I see what you mean, Vic. I think your best bet is to e-mail Eric and ask him. He ought to make it clear on the website whether it's a kit or ready built. There should of course be a difference in price. Like you, I like building stuff, would not consider buying a ready built rig and was a bit disappointed there was not more detailed assembly required for the K3. I use an XV144 with my K2 and an XV'70' with my K3, both self-assembled. 73 David G4DMP In a recent message, Vic Goncharsky us...@yahoo.com writes Hi Dave, It doesn't say KIT in there, I checked this b4 writing to the reflector. 73 Vic -- + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + | David M Pratt, Kippax, Leeds. | | Website: http://www.g4dmp.co.uk | + - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + __ 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] XV432 kit
The XV series transverters- including the XV432 are all kits- only the surface mount components have been pre-installed on the PC board. The builder must solder all the remaining parts, assemble the case and align the unit. refer to the product description page (not the order page), and/or the manual. 73, Bruce, N1RX __ 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] XV432 Wanted
Anyone have an XV432 transverter they would like to sell? Please contact me direct. 73 de Sebastian, W4AS __ 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] XV432 Issues
I've just finished assembly of the XV432 kit, interfaced to a K3, and ran into two issues during alignment in Part VI, Filter Alignment. First, during CW key-down, the voltage at TP5 peaks immediately, then slowly drops off until it is a volt or more lower than peak. Immediately re-keying gets a somewhat higher voltage than at un-key, but not at the peak. Letting it sit a minute or two, then re-keying, gets the original peak voltage back. Output power does the same fade. Second, the 28 MHz filters don't seem to be aligning properly. I've set the cans at the set-points in the manual, but L15 and L16 seem to peak with the slugs out of the cans. L17 appears to peak ok, and the 432 filters both seem to peak fine. At the best point of alignment, I am getting less than 7 volts at TP5, vs, 10 required for full output. I've checked the K3 output, and the BNC cables, both are fine. The input section of the XV is easily able to overdrive the input to the 28 MHz filters, as evidenced by D10 and D11 lighting up at roughly half setting on the input attenuator. Max output from the PA is around 15 watts without lighting up D10 and D11. I've pulled and checked the five caps around the filters, all are within tolerance. Oscillator alignment was fine, 3v at TP1. I've tried re-aligning these three cans several times, including bottoming out the slugs and working back up, with no change. I'm on the air with it at the moment, and it seems to be working other than the low power output. Any thoughts? Don W3MW w...@earthlink.net __ 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] XV432 Issues
Don, The manual doesn't state that you must adjust for 10 volts at TP5. Please read that section again. It does say that you should not exceed 10 volts at TP5 during the bandpass filter tuning. If the output goes above 10 volts, use the input attenuator R22) to bring the voltage down - perhaps in the vicinity of 5 volts, and then continue to look for the peak tuning point for each inductor that is to be adjusted. Go back over the peaking procedure 3 or 4 times. After you have peaked the bandpass filters, you will then adjust the input attenuator to produce the correct output (use an external power meter which is accurate at 432 MHz) while your selected maximum drive level is applied from your transceiver. After that (and while the transverter is producing 20 watts), you adjust R10 (Power CAL) so the LEDs indicate 20 watts. These 3 steps must be done in order - do not skip ahead or you will end up with frustration. Also, do not drive the transverter for too long at a time - particularly during the final power adjustments. Give enough break time to let it cool between adjustment trials. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/6/2011 3:27 PM, W3MW Don wrote: I've just finished assembly of the XV432 kit, interfaced to a K3, and ran into two issues during alignment in Part VI, Filter Alignment. First, during CW key-down, the voltage at TP5 peaks immediately, then slowly drops off until it is a volt or more lower than peak. Immediately re-keying gets a somewhat higher voltage than at un-key, but not at the peak. Letting it sit a minute or two, then re-keying, gets the original peak voltage back. Output power does the same fade. Second, the 28 MHz filters don't seem to be aligning properly. I've set the cans at the set-points in the manual, but L15 and L16 seem to peak with the slugs out of the cans. L17 appears to peak ok, and the 432 filters both seem to peak fine. At the best point of alignment, I am getting less than 7 volts at TP5, vs, 10 required for full output. I've checked the K3 output, and the BNC cables, both are fine. The input section of the XV is easily able to overdrive the input to the 28 MHz filters, as evidenced by D10 and D11 lighting up at roughly half setting on the input attenuator. Max output from the PA is around 15 watts without lighting up D10 and D11. I've pulled and checked the five caps around the filters, all are within tolerance. Oscillator alignment was fine, 3v at TP1. I've tried re-aligning these three cans several times, including bottoming out the slugs and working back up, with no change. I'm on the air with it at the moment, and it seems to be working other than the low power output. Any thoughts? Don W3MW __ 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] XV432 Issues
Don, Thanks for your reply. It's great to get feedback here so quickly, especially as I managed to delay my question until a weekend. I understand the section of the manual regarding 10 volts at TP5. What I meant to indicate is that I cannot get anywhere near 9 or 10 volts at TP5 following the normal alignment procedure, regardless of whatever setting the input attenuator is at. I've followed the procedure by the manual, carefully, many times. Despite repeated passes through the peaking process (many more than three or four, I'm afraid), I cannot get over 15 watts output or over 7.5 volts at TP5 regardless of the input attenuator setting. I've since checked the coils to be sure I have the correct ones in the filter. K3 is set up for 1.00 power out, as instructed. The fact that the overload LEDs are lighting up at the high end setting of the input attenuator leads me to believe that the IF in from the K3 is ok, and that both pre-filter amplifier stages are working as intended. Adjustments of FL1 and FL2 are smooth and have a clearly identifiable peak, leading me to believe those are ok. I'm not seeing any voltage changes elsewhere in the transmit chain, and the rest of the device voltages look good. I made several attempts at alignment since your email, with no more success than earlier. As I am concerned that the PA module may be flaky, rather than fry the thing by continuing to tune, it's going back to Elecraft on Monday for them to have a look. I'll follow up here with the results. Thanks again for your quick response. 73, Don Appleby W3MW w...@earthlink.net - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com To: W3MW Don w...@earthlink.net Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2011 5:15 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Issues Don, The manual doesn't state that you must adjust for 10 volts at TP5. Please read that section again. It does say that you should not exceed 10 volts at TP5 during the bandpass filter tuning. If the output goes above 10 volts, use the input attenuator R22) to bring the voltage down - perhaps in the vicinity of 5 volts, and then continue to look for the peak tuning point for each inductor that is to be adjusted. Go back over the peaking procedure 3 or 4 times. After you have peaked the bandpass filters, you will then adjust the input attenuator to produce the correct output (use an external power meter which is accurate at 432 MHz) while your selected maximum drive level is applied from your transceiver. After that (and while the transverter is producing 20 watts), you adjust R10 (Power CAL) so the LEDs indicate 20 watts. These 3 steps must be done in order - do not skip ahead or you will end up with frustration. Also, do not drive the transverter for too long at a time - particularly during the final power adjustments. Give enough break time to let it cool between adjustment trials. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/6/2011 3:27 PM, W3MW Don wrote: I've just finished assembly of the XV432 kit, interfaced to a K3, and ran into two issues during alignment in Part VI, Filter Alignment. First, during CW key-down, the voltage at TP5 peaks immediately, then slowly drops off until it is a volt or more lower than peak. Immediately re-keying gets a somewhat higher voltage than at un-key, but not at the peak. Letting it sit a minute or two, then re-keying, gets the original peak voltage back. Output power does the same fade. Second, the 28 MHz filters don't seem to be aligning properly. I've set the cans at the set-points in the manual, but L15 and L16 seem to peak with the slugs out of the cans. L17 appears to peak ok, and the 432 filters both seem to peak fine. At the best point of alignment, I am getting less than 7 volts at TP5, vs, 10 required for full output. I've checked the K3 output, and the BNC cables, both are fine. The input section of the XV is easily able to overdrive the input to the 28 MHz filters, as evidenced by D10 and D11 lighting up at roughly half setting on the input attenuator. Max output from the PA is around 15 watts without lighting up D10 and D11. I've pulled and checked the five caps around the filters, all are within tolerance. Oscillator alignment was fine, 3v at TP1. I've tried re-aligning these three cans several times, including bottoming out the slugs and working back up, with no change. I'm on the air with it at the moment, and it seems to be working other than the low power output. Any thoughts? Don W3MW __ 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] XV432 Issues
Don, OK, and please understand that you will not necessarily obtain 10 volts at TP5. The voltage there is only relative, and is only used to identify the peak - once the tuning peaks have been found, the voltage there is no longer relevant. In other words, 10 volts at TP5 does not indicate full output, you must use a wattmeter that is accurate at 432 MHz to determine the 20 watt level. Can you measure the current that is being drawn while you attempt to get 20 watts output? If the current is excessive, there is a problem between the PA module and the antenna. Assuming that the efficiency is 50%, it will take about 3 to 3.5 Amperes at 20 watts output. As I indicated, a higher current indicates that there is a problem between the PA and the antenna output. OTOH, if the current is lower, That indicates that the PA module is not receiving adequate drive. If that is the case, try increasing the bias slightly to see if that gives any improvement. My experience with the specifics of the XV432 is limited, so if the problem is low drive to the PA module, it is best to email supp...@elecraft.com - unfortunately, they take the weekend off for a well deserved rest (we volunteers do not have that privilege). 73, Don W3FPR On 8/6/2011 10:49 PM, W3MW Don wrote: Don, Thanks for your reply. It's great to get feedback here so quickly, especially as I managed to delay my question until a weekend. I understand the section of the manual regarding 10 volts at TP5. What I meant to indicate is that I cannot get anywhere near 9 or 10 volts at TP5 following the normal alignment procedure, regardless of whatever setting the input attenuator is at. I've followed the procedure by the manual, carefully, many times. Despite repeated passes through the peaking process (many more than three or four, I'm afraid), I cannot get over 15 watts output or over 7.5 volts at TP5 regardless of the input attenuator setting. I've since checked the coils to be sure I have the correct ones in the filter. K3 is set up for 1.00 power out, as instructed. The fact that the overload LEDs are lighting up at the high end setting of the input attenuator leads me to believe that the IF in from the K3 is ok, and that both pre-filter amplifier stages are working as intended. Adjustments of FL1 and FL2 are smooth and have a clearly identifiable peak, leading me to believe those are ok. I'm not seeing any voltage changes elsewhere in the transmit chain, and the rest of the device voltages look good. I made several attempts at alignment since your email, with no more success than earlier. As I am concerned that the PA module may be flaky, rather than fry the thing by continuing to tune, it's going back to Elecraft on Monday for them to have a look. I'll follow up here with the results. Thanks again for your quick response. 73, Don Appleby W3MW w...@earthlink.net - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelmw3...@embarqmail.com To: W3MW Donw...@earthlink.net Cc:elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2011 5:15 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Issues Don, The manual doesn't state that you must adjust for 10 volts at TP5. Please read that section again. It does say that you should not exceed 10 volts at TP5 during the bandpass filter tuning. If the output goes above 10 volts, use the input attenuator R22) to bring the voltage down - perhaps in the vicinity of 5 volts, and then continue to look for the peak tuning point for each inductor that is to be adjusted. Go back over the peaking procedure 3 or 4 times. After you have peaked the bandpass filters, you will then adjust the input attenuator to produce the correct output (use an external power meter which is accurate at 432 MHz) while your selected maximum drive level is applied from your transceiver. After that (and while the transverter is producing 20 watts), you adjust R10 (Power CAL) so the LEDs indicate 20 watts. These 3 steps must be done in order - do not skip ahead or you will end up with frustration. Also, do not drive the transverter for too long at a time - particularly during the final power adjustments. Give enough break time to let it cool between adjustment trials. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/6/2011 3:27 PM, W3MW Don wrote: I've just finished assembly of the XV432 kit, interfaced to a K3, and ran into two issues during alignment in Part VI, Filter Alignment. First, during CW key-down, the voltage at TP5 peaks immediately, then slowly drops off until it is a volt or more lower than peak. Immediately re-keying gets a somewhat higher voltage than at un-key, but not at the peak. Letting it sit a minute or two, then re-keying, gets the original peak voltage back. Output power does the same fade. Second, the 28 MHz filters don't seem to be aligning properly. I've set the cans at the set-points in the manual, but L15 and L16 seem to peak with the slugs out of the cans. L17
Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Issues
Don, The overload LEDs are a different situation from your tuning/power out situation. Sometimes the overload LED indication is the result of noise getting into the XVxxx firmware chip. The cure for that noise is to connect a capacitor between the collector and emitter (ground) or Q2 on the front panel board. Any value between .001 and .01 uF should do nicely. Of course, if you are driving the XV432 with a non-elecraft transceiver, it could be that the overload condition is real - if the XV432 (or any XV series transverter) detects RF before the Key-In signal is active, it will cause the overload condition. I recall you are driving the XV432 from the K3, so I would attribute the LED flashing to a noise condition on the overload signalling line, and the capacitor should calm it. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/6/2011 10:49 PM, W3MW Don wrote: Don, Thanks for your reply. It's great to get feedback here so quickly, especially as I managed to delay my question until a weekend. I understand the section of the manual regarding 10 volts at TP5. What I meant to indicate is that I cannot get anywhere near 9 or 10 volts at TP5 following the normal alignment procedure, regardless of whatever setting the input attenuator is at. I've followed the procedure by the manual, carefully, many times. Despite repeated passes through the peaking process (many more than three or four, I'm afraid), I cannot get over 15 watts output or over 7.5 volts at TP5 regardless of the input attenuator setting. I've since checked the coils to be sure I have the correct ones in the filter. K3 is set up for 1.00 power out, as instructed. The fact that the overload LEDs are lighting up at the high end setting of the input attenuator leads me to believe that the IF in from the K3 is ok, and that both pre-filter amplifier stages are working as intended. Adjustments of FL1 and FL2 are smooth and have a clearly identifiable peak, leading me to believe those are ok. I'm not seeing any voltage changes elsewhere in the transmit chain, and the rest of the device voltages look good. I made several attempts at alignment since your email, with no more success than earlier. As I am concerned that the PA module may be flaky, rather than fry the thing by continuing to tune, it's going back to Elecraft on Monday for them to have a look. I'll follow up here with the results. Thanks again for your quick response. 73, Don Appleby W3MW w...@earthlink.net - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelmw3...@embarqmail.com To: W3MW Donw...@earthlink.net Cc:elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2011 5:15 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Issues Don, The manual doesn't state that you must adjust for 10 volts at TP5. Please read that section again. It does say that you should not exceed 10 volts at TP5 during the bandpass filter tuning. If the output goes above 10 volts, use the input attenuator R22) to bring the voltage down - perhaps in the vicinity of 5 volts, and then continue to look for the peak tuning point for each inductor that is to be adjusted. Go back over the peaking procedure 3 or 4 times. After you have peaked the bandpass filters, you will then adjust the input attenuator to produce the correct output (use an external power meter which is accurate at 432 MHz) while your selected maximum drive level is applied from your transceiver. After that (and while the transverter is producing 20 watts), you adjust R10 (Power CAL) so the LEDs indicate 20 watts. These 3 steps must be done in order - do not skip ahead or you will end up with frustration. Also, do not drive the transverter for too long at a time - particularly during the final power adjustments. Give enough break time to let it cool between adjustment trials. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/6/2011 3:27 PM, W3MW Don wrote: I've just finished assembly of the XV432 kit, interfaced to a K3, and ran into two issues during alignment in Part VI, Filter Alignment. First, during CW key-down, the voltage at TP5 peaks immediately, then slowly drops off until it is a volt or more lower than peak. Immediately re-keying gets a somewhat higher voltage than at un-key, but not at the peak. Letting it sit a minute or two, then re-keying, gets the original peak voltage back. Output power does the same fade. Second, the 28 MHz filters don't seem to be aligning properly. I've set the cans at the set-points in the manual, but L15 and L16 seem to peak with the slugs out of the cans. L17 appears to peak ok, and the 432 filters both seem to peak fine. At the best point of alignment, I am getting less than 7 volts at TP5, vs, 10 required for full output. I've checked the K3 output, and the BNC cables, both are fine. The input section of the XV is easily able to overdrive the input to the 28 MHz filters, as evidenced by D10 and D11 lighting up at roughly half setting on the input attenuator. Max output from
Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Issues
L Have a great day, Dale - WC7S -Original Message- From: Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com Date: Sat, 6 Aug 2011 21:15:40 To: w...@earthlink.net Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Issues Don, The manual doesn't state that you must adjust for 10 volts at TP5. Please read that section again. It does say that you should not exceed 10 volts at TP5 during the bandpass filter tuning. If the output goes above 10 volts, use the input attenuator R22) to bring the voltage down - perhaps in the vicinity of 5 volts, and then continue to look for the peak tuning point for each inductor that is to be adjusted. Go back over the peaking procedure 3 or 4 times. After you have peaked the bandpass filters, you will then adjust the input attenuator to produce the correct output (use an external power meter which is accurate at 432 MHz) while your selected maximum drive level is applied from your transceiver. After that (and while the transverter is producing 20 watts), you adjust R10 (Power CAL) so the LEDs indicate 20 watts. These 3 steps must be done in order - do not skip ahead or you will end up with frustration. Also, do not drive the transverter for too long at a time - particularly during the final power adjustments. Give enough break time to let it cool between adjustment trials. 73, Don W3FPR On 8/6/2011 3:27 PM, W3MW Don wrote: I've just finished assembly of the XV432 kit, interfaced to a K3, and ran into two issues during alignment in Part VI, Filter Alignment. First, during CW key-down, the voltage at TP5 peaks immediately, then slowly drops off until it is a volt or more lower than peak. Immediately re-keying gets a somewhat higher voltage than at un-key, but not at the peak. Letting it sit a minute or two, then re-keying, gets the original peak voltage back. Output power does the same fade. Second, the 28 MHz filters don't seem to be aligning properly. I've set the cans at the set-points in the manual, but L15 and L16 seem to peak with the slugs out of the cans. L17 appears to peak ok, and the 432 filters both seem to peak fine. At the best point of alignment, I am getting less than 7 volts at TP5, vs, 10 required for full output. I've checked the K3 output, and the BNC cables, both are fine. The input section of the XV is easily able to overdrive the input to the 28 MHz filters, as evidenced by D10 and D11 lighting up at roughly half setting on the input attenuator. Max output from the PA is around 15 watts without lighting up D10 and D11. I've pulled and checked the five caps around the filters, all are within tolerance. Oscillator alignment was fine, 3v at TP1. I've tried re-aligning these three cans several times, including bottoming out the slugs and working back up, with no change. I'm on the air with it at the moment, and it seems to be working other than the low power output. Any thoughts? Don W3MW __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected - FIXED
Stu2 wrote: 1) Make sure the paint on the inside of the case was removed in the appropriate spots (connectors, joints, etc.) A stainless steel scratch pen is your best friend - USA:http://www.cooltools.us/Scratch-Brush-Pen-Style-Steel-p/brn-209.htm UK: http://www.eileensemporium.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemartpage=shop .browsecategory_id=1Itemid=9 Use the centre hole of a large steel washer to isolate the area you want to clean. Don't stop when the black paint has gone - make sure you also cut away the primer, which is very tough and not so easy to see. -- 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected - FIXED
Well - probably not fixed, but I was able to find a workaround. If you haven't been following this thread, the basic issue is that the PA on my XV432 self oscillates. Thanks to everybody on the list, including Gary from Elecraft, I had several different things to try. 1) Make sure the paint on the inside of the case was removed in the appropriate spots (connectors, joints, etc.) 2) Add some vias near U6 and K2 3) Touch up the solder joints 4) Make sure the leads on the resistor specified in the XV432 mod was as short as possible 5) Change the PA Bias Adj 6) Add a pad in the TX path between the amp and XV432 7) Add a power resistor on a T connector at the XV432 output (or Amp input) Ultimately, I found that varying the length of the coax between the XV432 and Henry 2004A was the answer. I discovered this when I got to idea #7. First, I used a Bird Watt meter and adjusted the Henry amp to match my TS2000. (no reflected power) Then I reconnected the XV432. I added a 50ohm 20W dummy load on a BNC T at the output of the XV432 with a bunch of different adapters to make the N-BNC connection work. The XV432 was still connected to the Henry. This essentially put the dummy load in parallel with the Amp. The self oscillation stopped. So I removed the dummy load to prove the hypothesis and still no oscillation. Then I renewed my original track of varying the coax lengths and stumbled on a good length, which stopped the self oscillations. I know the length of cable changes the load. So it would seem the next step might be developing a simple matching network at the output of the XV432. But since I don't know all the variables (e.g. S parameters) this would probably need to be trial and error with some good guess work. Thanks to everybody on the list who helped out. Perhaps I'll see you in Dayton. 73's Stu2 W7IY __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected - FIXED
Stu, Since the length of the coax changes things, I would suggest putting the matching circuit at the Amp end of the cable rather than the XV432. The cable length should not matter if it is matched at the amplifier end, but since the length does change things, it is apparent to me that the amp input does not present a 50 ohm load. 73, Don W3FPR On 5/16/2011 5:50 PM, Stu2 wrote: Well - probably not fixed, but I was able to find a workaround. If you haven't been following this thread, the basic issue is that the PA on my XV432 self oscillates. Thanks to everybody on the list, including Gary from Elecraft, I had several different things to try. 1) Make sure the paint on the inside of the case was removed in the appropriate spots (connectors, joints, etc.) 2) Add some vias near U6 and K2 3) Touch up the solder joints 4) Make sure the leads on the resistor specified in the XV432 mod was as short as possible 5) Change the PA Bias Adj 6) Add a pad in the TX path between the amp and XV432 7) Add a power resistor on a T connector at the XV432 output (or Amp input) Ultimately, I found that varying the length of the coax between the XV432 and Henry 2004A was the answer. I discovered this when I got to idea #7. First, I used a Bird Watt meter and adjusted the Henry amp to match my TS2000. (no reflected power) Then I reconnected the XV432. I added a 50ohm 20W dummy load on a BNC T at the output of the XV432 with a bunch of different adapters to make the N-BNC connection work. The XV432 was still connected to the Henry. This essentially put the dummy load in parallel with the Amp. The self oscillation stopped. So I removed the dummy load to prove the hypothesis and still no oscillation. Then I renewed my original track of varying the coax lengths and stumbled on a good length, which stopped the self oscillations. I know the length of cable changes the load. So it would seem the next step might be developing a simple matching network at the output of the XV432. But since I don't know all the variables (e.g. S parameters) this would probably need to be trial and error with some good guess work. Thanks to everybody on the list who helped out. Perhaps I'll see you in Dayton. 73's Stu2 W7IY __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
Stu, OK so you are keying the XV432 Tx control line and not applying RF drive (not sure how you accomplish this, but not important in this discussion). It oscillated unless there is a 50-ohm RF load on the output. I think its time to contact Elecraft for help. I assume you did not build the XV432 and it was assembled by Elecraft (what I am saying this is not sold as a kit), and should not do this. Maybe a candidate for warranty service. I had a 1296 transverter (from another mfr) that did a similar thing though it took drive to get self-osc. started. I could remove drive and still had a couple watts of RF out, until I unkeyed it from Tx. Unkeying biased the amps off in the transverter. I measured the self-osc. frequency and it was osc. at operating freq. The mfr had it twice to fix and finally we got it tamed at a lower power out (and I sold it). But circuits can self-osc. anywhere from audio to mw. There are design techniques to prevent this: usually RF chokes and bypass caps. In tough cases interstage shielding and parasitic chokes. But I have not heard of this problem being common with the XV432 so time to call Elecraft. Ed - KL7UW -- Message: 17 Date: Tue, 10 May 2011 19:19:50 -0400 From: Stu2 s...@stu2.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4dc9c816.6020...@stu2.net Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Thanks guys! It's quite weird. When I say key up, I mean activate the XV432 PTT with the rig (exciter) in CW mode without pressing the CW key. That is, no RF goes into the transverter. Just the simple fact of keying the transverter while it is connected to something other than a 50 Ohm load seems to set up an oscillation. Several people have suggested a pad. The output of the XV432 is a low pass pi circuit. Since I don't want to reduce the RX gain, it would seem this either needs to be in the amp's TX chain or the XV432's TX chain. (i.e. before the TR relay) After I wrote my first message, I installed an SWR meter between the XV432 and amp so I could adjust the Henry for the best SWR. Unfortunately, this didn't cure the problem. The XV432 still oscillated. I have another amp I can try. I also have a TS2000 to try to help set the amp up. Thanks again for the ideas. Stu2 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 == BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 50-1.1kW?, 144-1.4kw, 432-100w, 1296-testing*, 3400-? DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@hotmail.com == __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
Stu - Three more suggestions: - remove the paint along the inside edges of the box where the lids meet the box sides and the C shaped front/back panels, and remove the paint under the screw heads (I used a dremel bit to grind a nice circle under the head). - try increasing the PA Bias a bit, so that you are reading 30-40mV instead of 20mV at the test points TP3/4. Gary S suggested this. - replace the grey heatsink thermal pads with Thermalcote conductive heatsink grease. In my case, this stabilized the power output over time, as well as improved the output instability. I also had done the PCBoard mod to ground top/bottom sides near the relay down in front, suggested by someone else. I was able to work a handful for the spring sprint - including Steve VE3SMA - as a result of these changes. Good luck Colin Haig VE3MSC At 07:19 PM 2011-05-10, Stu2 wrote: Thanks guys! It's quite weird. When I say key up, I mean activate the XV432 PTT with the rig (exciter) in CW mode without pressing the CW key. That is, no RF goes into the transverter. Just the simple fact of keying the transverter while it is connected to something other than a 50 Ohm load seems to set up an oscillation. Several people have suggested a pad. The output of the XV432 is a low pass pi circuit. Since I don't want to reduce the RX gain, it would seem this either needs to be in the amp's TX chain or the XV432's TX chain. (i.e. before the TR relay) After I wrote my first message, I installed an SWR meter between the XV432 and amp so I could adjust the Henry for the best SWR. Unfortunately, this didn't cure the problem. The XV432 still oscillated. I have another amp I can try. I also have a TS2000 to try to help set the amp up. Thanks again for the ideas. Stu2 __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
All the suggestions about trying different cable lengths are good thoughts to help find the sweet spot of compatibility between the XV432 output circuit impedance and the Henry input impedance. Folks on the repeater-builder group talk about this very issue often; Of course in their case they are concerned about the transmitter feeding a reactive duplexer assembly. Oscillations don't seem to be the issue presented, rather, the tendency of the transmitter output stage to produce other by-products when forced to feed a reactive load, such as a narrow band-pass duplexer, causes unhappiness in the transmitter. Spurious signals are the result. The oft touted simple cure proposed is try different lengths of cable between TX and Combiner. The more professional solution is to place an Isolator between the TX and the Amp during transmit. One example is shown here... http://www.rflambda.com/pdf/isolator/RFLI101M40M50.pdf This way, the TX only ever sees a nice infinite coax assuming, of course, the third port is properly terminated into 50 ohms. Of course you need to receive as well and the isolator won't help with that by itself. So all I have done here is to propose a workable, but unwieldy and expensive solution if, in fact, the cause of the oscillations is impedance issues between the XV432 output stage and the Henry input stage. The point is impedance issues between a Source and Load can cause the source to not play nice. Let's hope your problem is just a feedback path solved with chokes. John Good day, I'm working with the XV432, Flex 1500 and Henry 2004A Amp. The rig, xvrtr and amp PTTs are sequenced. Hoping somebody might have been down this path before and has a solution. If I connect the transverter output to the amp (or different pieces of open coax) and key the transverter, the power meter goes full scale and I see an oscillation on the spectrum analyzer. The frequency of the oscillation varies with the load. (i.e. amp connected or different lengths of coax) If I connect the XV432 to a 50 ohm load, no oscillations and all works well. I ran through the alignment procedure again with the XV432 connected to a 50 Ohm load. All the voltages look right and the tuning is smooth. (e.g. 20mV Quiescent Current Adjustment, TP3/TP4) It's obvious the XV432 is happy into 50 Ohms, but not into impedances that wander from 50 Ohms. BTW, I have added all the mods as per the Elecraft website. Any ideas? 73's Stu2 W7IY __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
Thanks guys! It's quite weird. When I say key up, I mean activate the XV432 PTT with the rig (exciter) in CW mode without pressing the CW key. That is, no RF goes into the transverter. Just the simple fact of keying the transverter while it is connected to something other than a 50 Ohm load seems to set up an oscillation. Several people have suggested a pad. The output of the XV432 is a low pass pi circuit. Since I don't want to reduce the RX gain, it would seem this either needs to be in the amp's TX chain or the XV432's TX chain. (i.e. before the TR relay) After I wrote my first message, I installed an SWR meter between the XV432 and amp so I could adjust the Henry for the best SWR. Unfortunately, this didn't cure the problem. The XV432 still oscillated. I have another amp I can try. I also have a TS2000 to try to help set the amp up. Thanks again for the ideas. Stu2 __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
Stu A couple of thoughts. You didn't mention if the oscillation was occurring with the amp driving an antenna or a dummy load. The Elecraft transverters have lots of nice features but they are quite poorly shielded. If you were using an antenna you might be getting an RF feedback loop via the various rear-panel connectors which rely on the PC board for grounding rather than the case. Clip on ferrite beads on the cables can help. If you were running the amp into a dummy load then the problem is more likely impedance related as you suggested. When I built my XV222 the manual failed to suggest that the paint be scraped off the case where the output coax connector is attached. If you haven't already done this, it might be worth a try just to ensure proper grounding. 73, Steve VE3SMA __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
On 5/9/2011 6:32 AM, Steve Kavanagh wrote: Stu A couple of thoughts. You didn't mention if the oscillation was occurring with the amp driving an antenna or a dummy load. The Elecraft transverters have lots of nice features but they are quite poorly shielded. If you were using an antenna you might be getting an RF feedback loop via the various rear-panel connectors which rely on the PC board for grounding rather than the case. Clip on ferrite beads on the cables can help. If you were running the amp into a dummy load then the problem is more likely impedance related as you suggested. When I built my XV222 the manual failed to suggest that the paint be scraped off the case where the output coax connector is attached. If you haven't already done this, it might be worth a try just to ensure proper grounding. *Likewise, try scraping paint off the four 2-D attachment points on both the side panels. The paint is very tough and hard to remove but its worth the work. --Lenny W2BVH* 73, Steve VE3SMA __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
First off let me state that I do not have any of the equipment Stu is using. The fact the XV432 likes the 50-ohm termination (dummy load to the rest of us), says it looks like a termination loading issue. The Henry 2004 should offer a 50-ohm load at input. Some amps require input tuning (my 2m-8877 is very touchy on input tuning and does not present a low SWR; best I get is 1.7:1). My amp is HB so I know why. Transmitting into open unterminated coax will normally show standing wave peaks and valleys. But perhaps the XV432 is going into self-oscillation when not seeing a good load? If you have enough excess power I would suggest using a 3-dB attenuator between the XV432 and Henry amp. It will have to be rated for full power of the XV432. Many amps even have an internal attenuator on the input (mainly to broadband input tuning). Do you have another 432 transmitter to test with the Henry amp? Also, try different lengths of coax between the XV432 and the amp. Oh, and test those coax lines with the 50-ohm termination on the far end (should see no oscillation or SWR). If the XV432 is going into self-oscillation it might be RF feedback from the Henry amp thru power lines? Try moving the XV432 dc cables to see if that causes any effect. If so wrapping the dc cord thru a toroid core may help (also check that there is RF bypassing inside the XV432 on the dc input. Should see a bypass cap and maybe ferriite beads on the dc line. Check station grounding. That Henry needs a good RF and safety ground to an external ground post and house wiring ground (this has been a recent topic). Have you tested with the Henry into a 50-ohm termination (dummy load)? High SWR on the antenna can also produce these effects with a high-power amp. (of course no all of us have a QRO dummy load) I have a 500w Sierra Electronics air cooled load that will sustain up to 1000w for quick checks (no sustained key-down). At 1500w, I usually use my 2m eme array as best load (on a clear freq.). GL, Ed - KL7UW -- Message: 2 Date: Sun, 08 May 2011 13:34:55 -0400 From: Stu2 s...@stu2.net Subject: [Elecraft] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4dc6d43f.2090...@stu2.net Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Good day, I'm working with the XV432, Flex 1500 and Henry 2004A Amp. The rig, xvrtr and amp PTTs are sequenced. Hoping somebody might have been down this path before and has a solution. If I connect the transverter output to the amp (or different pieces of open coax) and key the transverter, the power meter goes full scale and I see an oscillation on the spectrum analyzer. The frequency of the oscillation varies with the load. (i.e. amp connected or different lengths of coax) If I connect the XV432 to a 50 ohm load, no oscillations and all works well. I ran through the alignment procedure again with the XV432 connected to a 50 Ohm load. All the voltages look right and the tuning is smooth. (e.g. 20mV Quiescent Current Adjustment, TP3/TP4) It's obvious the XV432 is happy into 50 Ohms, but not into impedances that wander from 50 Ohms. BTW, I have added all the mods as per the Elecraft website. Any ideas? 73's Stu2 W7IY 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 == BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 50-1.1kW?, 144-1.4kw, 432-100w, 1296-testing*, 3400-? DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@hotmail.com == __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
Hello Stu2, Some time ago, I had problems with an oscillating (or at the tip of starting self-oscillation) XV432. It manifested in such a way, the XV432 being very sensitive to input power levels and jumpy output power when adjusting the power level. Together with a Mirage D1010 (100W 70cm PA) sometimes oscillation at full power has been observed. In my case I could track it down to 70cm HF being coupled back into the IF (TX IF towards the XV432) causing a feedback. I could eliminate the oscillation by 2 modifications: 1) Added both the Elecraft Erratas to eliminate oscillation on the PA hybrid module (one is about installing a coil and a second one about installing a series resistor). Note that the errata to install the series resistor seems to superseede the coil, in my case installing both of the modifications did improve stability. 2) Install a small low-pass filter in the TX IF input in the XV432, as described here: www.dl7maj.de/XV432-Mod.pdf I installed the filter on board of the XV432, as shown in the PDF above. Note that I drive my XV432 from a K3 with 0dBm power. With the above modifications no oscillation or instability in output power has been seen anymore. I hope this may help. Best 73 de Thomas, HB9XAR Stu2 wrote: Good day, I'm working with the XV432, Flex 1500 and Henry 2004A Amp. The rig, xvrtr and amp PTTs are sequenced. Hoping somebody might have been down this path before and has a solution. If I connect the transverter output to the amp (or different pieces of open coax) and key the transverter, the power meter goes full scale and I see an oscillation on the spectrum analyzer. The frequency of the oscillation varies with the load. (i.e. amp connected or different lengths of coax) If I connect the XV432 to a 50 ohm load, no oscillations and all works well. I ran through the alignment procedure again with the XV432 connected to a 50 Ohm load. All the voltages look right and the tuning is smooth. (e.g. 20mV Quiescent Current Adjustment, TP3/TP4) It's obvious the XV432 is happy into 50 Ohms, but not into impedances that wander from 50 Ohms. BTW, I have added all the mods as per the Elecraft website. Any ideas? 73's Stu2 W7IY __ 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
I had a similar problem with my XV432. I was able to chase the problem to the tx driver stage. The fix was to add ground vias from the top to the bottom of the board in a few judicious places. I passed this info back to Gary at Elecraft. I know of at least one other XV432 that has been stabilized by this method. I don't see those mods in the latest XV432 errata sheet, perhaps they vias have been added to the latest circuit board or they have found other ways to cure the problem. 73, Mike, W3IP From: Edward R. Cole kl...@acsalaska.net To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Mon, May 9, 2011 12:46:11 PM Subject: [Elecraft] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected First off let me state that I do not have any of the equipment Stu is using. The fact the XV432 likes the 50-ohm termination (dummy load to the rest of us), says it looks like a termination loading issue. The Henry 2004 should offer a 50-ohm load at input. Some amps require input tuning (my 2m-8877 is very touchy on input tuning and does not present a low SWR; best I get is 1.7:1). My amp is HB so I know why. Transmitting into open unterminated coax will normally show standing wave peaks and valleys. But perhaps the XV432 is going into self-oscillation when not seeing a good load? If you have enough excess power I would suggest using a 3-dB attenuator between the XV432 and Henry amp. It will have to be rated for full power of the XV432. Many amps even have an internal attenuator on the input (mainly to broadband input tuning). Do you have another 432 transmitter to test with the Henry amp? Also, try different lengths of coax between the XV432 and the amp. Oh, and test those coax lines with the 50-ohm termination on the far end (should see no oscillation or SWR). If the XV432 is going into self-oscillation it might be RF feedback from the Henry amp thru power lines? Try moving the XV432 dc cables to see if that causes any effect. If so wrapping the dc cord thru a toroid core may help (also check that there is RF bypassing inside the XV432 on the dc input. Should see a bypass cap and maybe ferriite beads on the dc line. Check station grounding. That Henry needs a good RF and safety ground to an external ground post and house wiring ground (this has been a recent topic). Have you tested with the Henry into a 50-ohm termination (dummy load)? High SWR on the antenna can also produce these effects with a high-power amp. (of course no all of us have a QRO dummy load) I have a 500w Sierra Electronics air cooled load that will sustain up to 1000w for quick checks (no sustained key-down). At 1500w, I usually use my 2m eme array as best load (on a clear freq.). GL, Ed - KL7UW -- Message: 2 Date: Sun, 08 May 2011 13:34:55 -0400 From: Stu2 s...@stu2.net Subject: [Elecraft] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Message-ID: 4dc6d43f.2090...@stu2.net Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed Good day, I'm working with the XV432, Flex 1500 and Henry 2004A Amp. The rig, xvrtr and amp PTTs are sequenced. Hoping somebody might have been down this path before and has a solution. If I connect the transverter output to the amp (or different pieces of open coax) and key the transverter, the power meter goes full scale and I see an oscillation on the spectrum analyzer. The frequency of the oscillation varies with the load. (i.e. amp connected or different lengths of coax) If I connect the XV432 to a 50 ohm load, no oscillations and all works well. I ran through the alignment procedure again with the XV432 connected to a 50 Ohm load. All the voltages look right and the tuning is smooth. (e.g. 20mV Quiescent Current Adjustment, TP3/TP4) It's obvious the XV432 is happy into 50 Ohms, but not into impedances that wander from 50 Ohms. BTW, I have added all the mods as per the Elecraft website. Any ideas? 73's Stu2 W7IY 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 == BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 50-1.1kW?, 144-1.4kw, 432-100w, 1296-testing*, 3400-? DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@hotmail.com == __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft 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] XV432 Oscillates with Amp connected
Good day, I'm working with the XV432, Flex 1500 and Henry 2004A Amp. The rig, xvrtr and amp PTTs are sequenced. Hoping somebody might have been down this path before and has a solution. If I connect the transverter output to the amp (or different pieces of open coax) and key the transverter, the power meter goes full scale and I see an oscillation on the spectrum analyzer. The frequency of the oscillation varies with the load. (i.e. amp connected or different lengths of coax) If I connect the XV432 to a 50 ohm load, no oscillations and all works well. I ran through the alignment procedure again with the XV432 connected to a 50 Ohm load. All the voltages look right and the tuning is smooth. (e.g. 20mV Quiescent Current Adjustment, TP3/TP4) It's obvious the XV432 is happy into 50 Ohms, but not into impedances that wander from 50 Ohms. BTW, I have added all the mods as per the Elecraft website. Any ideas? 73's Stu2 W7IY __ 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] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Gang, Per Don's suggestion, I have forwarded all info to E-Support. One more thing for here. I have summarized my Troubleshooting voltages. The following numbers that are not consistent with the charts. RF PWR Module, U7, Pin 3, 2.5V in TX vs the stated 3.5-4.5 TP1, 3.6V in Rx and 3.5 in Tx vs 2.2 Nominal in both modes. TP5, 0V in TX TP6, 0V in TX U1 Output pin, 1.9V in Rx and 0V in Tx vs stated 3.0-6.0. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra On Sun, Sep 5, 2010 at 10:08 PM, Robert Friess rfri...@usa.net wrote: Mark, Even though TP5 is zero, do you measure power output power with an external meter? What do you see at TP6 (marked TP5 on the schematic. TP6 is at the input of the gain block) Bob On Sun, Sep 5, 2010 at 5:48 PM, Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Mark, I am out of help on that one. If you have not already, it is time to email support at elecraft dot com. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 6:46 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Don, I rearranged the XV432 to be driven at 5W with my FT817 (my uW IF radio). Now, all the tests up to the one originally in question, were fine. I still have 0 Volts at TP5. What is new: When I rotate R22 CW while feeding 5W from the 817, at about 25% rotation of R22, the overload LEDs on the main board light. I rechecked the pin headers and shorting blocks and they are correct. Myron, You suggested the following: 1. Check the bias voltage to the PA. TP5 samples the PA output. Is the bias voltage still the same as when you set it previously. YES. 2. Check the local LO. If your adjustment of that stage ended up right on the edge, sometimes it will stop oscillating and will need re-adjustment. The LO starts AOK each time I power it up. 3. Make sure the XVTR is in transmit mode while making these adjustments. YES. It was. All set there. I found that some adjustments when peaking TP5 voltage didn't seem to do much. Even sometimes a bad coax between the rig IF and the XVTR can cause systems like you describe. I tried 2 different coax jumpers with no change. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra On Sun, Sep 5, 2010 at 5:13 PM, Don Wilhelmw3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Mark, I am going to guess that you are plagued with the gremlin of 432 MHz energy getting back to the K60XV and interfering with its power measurement mechanism. Plug the XV432 for high power input and drive it from the BNC on the K2 until you get it aligned. If all goes well when connected that way, put a 30 or 50 MHz low pass filter between the K60XV output and the transverter(s). One of the little in-line Mini-Circuits filters works well. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 4:54 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Hi Gang, Just finished my XV432 expecting to use it next weekend in the ARRL VHF in my rover setup. Murphy has hit and maybe someone can give me a hand. My setup is a K2/XV60/IO module running xverter duty with an XV222 using the split IF, Elecraft control cable, etc. I've used this for a few years and it works FB. Now for the XV432. I am on page 29 running Part VI-Filter Alignment. All is good up to the last checkbox at the bottom right of the page. I key the rig and get a 2V. On page 30, I continue with adjustment of L15, L16, L17. The readings are changing as expected. Then I go on to FL1 and FL2 to get a higher reading at TP5. At the first FL and turn of the screw, the voltage at TP5 goes to 0. And that is all. I cannot get volts at TP5. I checked to make sure the K2 is putting out power and I have milliVolts at the TX in connector. I did use a small metal Stanley screwdriver to make the fateful adjustment, but cannot see how this might matter. It would help to have a bunch of RF voltages to check to determine my problem. If I do not have this up and running by Thursday, my big rove plans will be shot as I've revamped the rover setup to include this transverter. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Robert, What DC voltage do you measure at the output pin of U6. 5.0V in TX Are you able to set the bias current of U7 with R39 as stated in the manual? Yes, no problem Does the receive side work? Yes, I think. When I turn on the Elecraft N-Gen the noise goes a lot. Bob On Mon, Sep 6, 2010 at 12:34 PM, Mark Adams msadam...@gmail.com wrote: Gang, Per Don's suggestion, I have forwarded all info to E-Support. One more thing for here. I have summarized my Troubleshooting voltages. The following numbers that are not consistent with the charts. RF PWR Module, U7, Pin 3, 2.5V in TX vs the stated 3.5-4.5 TP1, 3.6V in Rx and 3.5 in Tx vs 2.2 Nominal in both modes. TP5, 0V in TX TP6, 0V in TX U1 Output pin, 1.9V in Rx and 0V in Tx vs stated 3.0-6.0. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Robert, One more thing on the last tests. I WAS able to peak up FL1 and C1 on RX with the N-Gen. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra On Mon, Sep 6, 2010 at 5:23 PM, Mark Adams msadam...@gmail.com wrote: Robert, What DC voltage do you measure at the output pin of U6. 5.0V in TX Are you able to set the bias current of U7 with R39 as stated in the manual? Yes, no problem Does the receive side work? Yes, I think. When I turn on the Elecraft N-Gen the noise goes a lot. Bob On Mon, Sep 6, 2010 at 12:34 PM, Mark Adams msadam...@gmail.com wrote: Gang, Per Don's suggestion, I have forwarded all info to E-Support. One more thing for here. I have summarized my Troubleshooting voltages. The following numbers that are not consistent with the charts. RF PWR Module, U7, Pin 3, 2.5V in TX vs the stated 3.5-4.5 TP1, 3.6V in Rx and 3.5 in Tx vs 2.2 Nominal in both modes. TP5, 0V in TX TP6, 0V in TX U1 Output pin, 1.9V in Rx and 0V in Tx vs stated 3.0-6.0. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Hi Gang, Just finished my XV432 expecting to use it next weekend in the ARRL VHF in my rover setup. Murphy has hit and maybe someone can give me a hand. My setup is a K2/XV60/IO module running xverter duty with an XV222 using the split IF, Elecraft control cable, etc. I've used this for a few years and it works FB. Now for the XV432. I am on page 29 running Part VI-Filter Alignment. All is good up to the last checkbox at the bottom right of the page. I key the rig and get a 2V. On page 30, I continue with adjustment of L15, L16, L17. The readings are changing as expected. Then I go on to FL1 and FL2 to get a higher reading at TP5. At the first FL and turn of the screw, the voltage at TP5 goes to 0. And that is all. I cannot get volts at TP5. I checked to make sure the K2 is putting out power and I have milliVolts at the TX in connector. I did use a small metal Stanley screwdriver to make the fateful adjustment, but cannot see how this might matter. It would help to have a bunch of RF voltages to check to determine my problem. If I do not have this up and running by Thursday, my big rove plans will be shot as I've revamped the rover setup to include this transverter. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Mark, I am going to guess that you are plagued with the gremlin of 432 MHz energy getting back to the K60XV and interfering with its power measurement mechanism. Plug the XV432 for high power input and drive it from the BNC on the K2 until you get it aligned. If all goes well when connected that way, put a 30 or 50 MHz low pass filter between the K60XV output and the transverter(s). One of the little in-line Mini-Circuits filters works well. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 4:54 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Hi Gang, Just finished my XV432 expecting to use it next weekend in the ARRL VHF in my rover setup. Murphy has hit and maybe someone can give me a hand. My setup is a K2/XV60/IO module running xverter duty with an XV222 using the split IF, Elecraft control cable, etc. I've used this for a few years and it works FB. Now for the XV432. I am on page 29 running Part VI-Filter Alignment. All is good up to the last checkbox at the bottom right of the page. I key the rig and get a 2V. On page 30, I continue with adjustment of L15, L16, L17. The readings are changing as expected. Then I go on to FL1 and FL2 to get a higher reading at TP5. At the first FL and turn of the screw, the voltage at TP5 goes to 0. And that is all. I cannot get volts at TP5. I checked to make sure the K2 is putting out power and I have milliVolts at the TX in connector. I did use a small metal Stanley screwdriver to make the fateful adjustment, but cannot see how this might matter. It would help to have a bunch of RF voltages to check to determine my problem. If I do not have this up and running by Thursday, my big rove plans will be shot as I've revamped the rover setup to include this transverter. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Don, I rearranged the XV432 to be driven at 5W with my FT817 (my uW IF radio). Now, all the tests up to the one originally in question, were fine. I still have 0 Volts at TP5. What is new: When I rotate R22 CW while feeding 5W from the 817, at about 25% rotation of R22, the overload LEDs on the main board light. I rechecked the pin headers and shorting blocks and they are correct. Myron, You suggested the following: 1. Check the bias voltage to the PA. TP5 samples the PA output. Is the bias voltage still the same as when you set it previously. YES. 2. Check the local LO. If your adjustment of that stage ended up right on the edge, sometimes it will stop oscillating and will need re-adjustment. The LO starts AOK each time I power it up. 3. Make sure the XVTR is in transmit mode while making these adjustments. YES. It was. All set there. I found that some adjustments when peaking TP5 voltage didn't seem to do much. Even sometimes a bad coax between the rig IF and the XVTR can cause systems like you describe. I tried 2 different coax jumpers with no change. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra On Sun, Sep 5, 2010 at 5:13 PM, Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Mark, I am going to guess that you are plagued with the gremlin of 432 MHz energy getting back to the K60XV and interfering with its power measurement mechanism. Plug the XV432 for high power input and drive it from the BNC on the K2 until you get it aligned. If all goes well when connected that way, put a 30 or 50 MHz low pass filter between the K60XV output and the transverter(s). One of the little in-line Mini-Circuits filters works well. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 4:54 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Hi Gang, Just finished my XV432 expecting to use it next weekend in the ARRL VHF in my rover setup. Murphy has hit and maybe someone can give me a hand. My setup is a K2/XV60/IO module running xverter duty with an XV222 using the split IF, Elecraft control cable, etc. I've used this for a few years and it works FB. Now for the XV432. I am on page 29 running Part VI-Filter Alignment. All is good up to the last checkbox at the bottom right of the page. I key the rig and get a 2V. On page 30, I continue with adjustment of L15, L16, L17. The readings are changing as expected. Then I go on to FL1 and FL2 to get a higher reading at TP5. At the first FL and turn of the screw, the voltage at TP5 goes to 0. And that is all. I cannot get volts at TP5. I checked to make sure the K2 is putting out power and I have milliVolts at the TX in connector. I did use a small metal Stanley screwdriver to make the fateful adjustment, but cannot see how this might matter. It would help to have a bunch of RF voltages to check to determine my problem. If I do not have this up and running by Thursday, my big rove plans will be shot as I've revamped the rover setup to include this transverter. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Mark, I am out of help on that one. If you have not already, it is time to email support at elecraft dot com. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 6:46 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Don, I rearranged the XV432 to be driven at 5W with my FT817 (my uW IF radio). Now, all the tests up to the one originally in question, were fine. I still have 0 Volts at TP5. What is new: When I rotate R22 CW while feeding 5W from the 817, at about 25% rotation of R22, the overload LEDs on the main board light. I rechecked the pin headers and shorting blocks and they are correct. Myron, You suggested the following: 1. Check the bias voltage to the PA. TP5 samples the PA output. Is the bias voltage still the same as when you set it previously. YES. 2. Check the local LO. If your adjustment of that stage ended up right on the edge, sometimes it will stop oscillating and will need re-adjustment. The LO starts AOK each time I power it up. 3. Make sure the XVTR is in transmit mode while making these adjustments. YES. It was. All set there. I found that some adjustments when peaking TP5 voltage didn't seem to do much. Even sometimes a bad coax between the rig IF and the XVTR can cause systems like you describe. I tried 2 different coax jumpers with no change. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra On Sun, Sep 5, 2010 at 5:13 PM, Don Wilhelmw3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Mark, I am going to guess that you are plagued with the gremlin of 432 MHz energy getting back to the K60XV and interfering with its power measurement mechanism. Plug the XV432 for high power input and drive it from the BNC on the K2 until you get it aligned. If all goes well when connected that way, put a 30 or 50 MHz low pass filter between the K60XV output and the transverter(s). One of the little in-line Mini-Circuits filters works well. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 4:54 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Hi Gang, Just finished my XV432 expecting to use it next weekend in the ARRL VHF in my rover setup. Murphy has hit and maybe someone can give me a hand. My setup is a K2/XV60/IO module running xverter duty with an XV222 using the split IF, Elecraft control cable, etc. I've used this for a few years and it works FB. Now for the XV432. I am on page 29 running Part VI-Filter Alignment. All is good up to the last checkbox at the bottom right of the page. I key the rig and get a 2V. On page 30, I continue with adjustment of L15, L16, L17. The readings are changing as expected. Then I go on to FL1 and FL2 to get a higher reading at TP5. At the first FL and turn of the screw, the voltage at TP5 goes to 0. And that is all. I cannot get volts at TP5. I checked to make sure the K2 is putting out power and I have milliVolts at the TX in connector. I did use a small metal Stanley screwdriver to make the fateful adjustment, but cannot see how this might matter. It would help to have a bunch of RF voltages to check to determine my problem. If I do not have this up and running by Thursday, my big rove plans will be shot as I've revamped the rover setup to include this transverter. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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] XV432 Alignment Problems - Help!
Mark, Even though TP5 is zero, do you measure power output power with an external meter? What do you see at TP6 (marked TP5 on the schematic. TP6 is at the input of the gain block) Bob On Sun, Sep 5, 2010 at 5:48 PM, Don Wilhelm w3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Mark, I am out of help on that one. If you have not already, it is time to email support at elecraft dot com. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 6:46 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Don, I rearranged the XV432 to be driven at 5W with my FT817 (my uW IF radio). Now, all the tests up to the one originally in question, were fine. I still have 0 Volts at TP5. What is new: When I rotate R22 CW while feeding 5W from the 817, at about 25% rotation of R22, the overload LEDs on the main board light. I rechecked the pin headers and shorting blocks and they are correct. Myron, You suggested the following: 1. Check the bias voltage to the PA. TP5 samples the PA output. Is the bias voltage still the same as when you set it previously. YES. 2. Check the local LO. If your adjustment of that stage ended up right on the edge, sometimes it will stop oscillating and will need re-adjustment. The LO starts AOK each time I power it up. 3. Make sure the XVTR is in transmit mode while making these adjustments. YES. It was. All set there. I found that some adjustments when peaking TP5 voltage didn't seem to do much. Even sometimes a bad coax between the rig IF and the XVTR can cause systems like you describe. I tried 2 different coax jumpers with no change. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra On Sun, Sep 5, 2010 at 5:13 PM, Don Wilhelmw3...@embarqmail.com wrote: Mark, I am going to guess that you are plagued with the gremlin of 432 MHz energy getting back to the K60XV and interfering with its power measurement mechanism. Plug the XV432 for high power input and drive it from the BNC on the K2 until you get it aligned. If all goes well when connected that way, put a 30 or 50 MHz low pass filter between the K60XV output and the transverter(s). One of the little in-line Mini-Circuits filters works well. 73, Don W3FPR On 9/5/2010 4:54 PM, Mark Adams wrote: Hi Gang, Just finished my XV432 expecting to use it next weekend in the ARRL VHF in my rover setup. Murphy has hit and maybe someone can give me a hand. My setup is a K2/XV60/IO module running xverter duty with an XV222 using the split IF, Elecraft control cable, etc. I've used this for a few years and it works FB. Now for the XV432. I am on page 29 running Part VI-Filter Alignment. All is good up to the last checkbox at the bottom right of the page. I key the rig and get a 2V. On page 30, I continue with adjustment of L15, L16, L17. The readings are changing as expected. Then I go on to FL1 and FL2 to get a higher reading at TP5. At the first FL and turn of the screw, the voltage at TP5 goes to 0. And that is all. I cannot get volts at TP5. I checked to make sure the K2 is putting out power and I have milliVolts at the TX in connector. I did use a small metal Stanley screwdriver to make the fateful adjustment, but cannot see how this might matter. It would help to have a bunch of RF voltages to check to determine my problem. If I do not have this up and running by Thursday, my big rove plans will be shot as I've revamped the rover setup to include this transverter. 73, Mark K2QO FN03ra __ 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
[Elecraft] XV432
Can any of the owners of a XV432 comment on the frequency stability? Thanks. --Lenny __ 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] XV432
Not quite - but I can comment on the XV144. The stability is OK with the crystal oven though not exceptional. It need to be left on all the time or it will take a while to settle on power up. There is a jumper for that. The XV432 is likely to be approximately 3x less stable than the XV144. Mike w2bvh wrote: Can any of the owners of a XV432 comment on the frequency stability? Thanks. --Lenny -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/XV432-tp4159735p4160089.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] xv432
am i thinking right that k10 grounds during xmit and is open on receive. i think it's stuck in xmit on mine. ron __ 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] xv432
Ron, It certainly seems that way to me - those are Normally Open contacts and the relay coil is activated by 12T which is only active during transmit. Disconnect everything from the Ant jack (J1) and measure the resistance between the center conductor of J1 to ground - it should be fairly high if all is well. 73, Don W3FPR ron wrote: am i thinking right that k10 grounds during xmit and is open on receive. i think it's stuck in xmit on mine. ron __ 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] XV432 alignment
Hi all, I have put together an XV432 transverter and it went together very well. But I have a problem on alignment, so can somebody assist please. Aligning the local oscillator, the instructions are to peak L3,L4,L5 for maximum, for a peak voltage which should be between1.5 and 3volts, nominally 2.5volts, however I can peak them ok, but the voltage is well over 4volts and the L4 slug is almost out of the former. Can anyone give me info as to what the problem could be. Regards Ross ZL1WN __ 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] XV432 shuts down when K3 PTT is hit
I have a recently assembled XV432 interfaced with my K3 and I am finding that about 50% of the time I close the PTT on the K3, the XV432 turns off. Anybody have some insight on this problem? Thanks. 73, Ed K1TR __ 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] xv432
big thanks to robert friess for helping me get my rig working. simple fix 10 ohm res in series with the power module input lead. stopped the rig from staying keyed at fullpower till i shut it off. now to make some contacts.thanks again, ron ___ 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] xv432
Hello Ron, While you are using your XV432, have you experienced any output power instability and frequency drift? Initially, I find power instability in my XV144. Upon advice from Gary of Elecraft, I do some works in improving the grounding of some of the sockets and joints. The problem of power instability seems solved. I am interested in knowing whether such instability also happened in XV432. If you have time, please give your product review in eham.net 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC www.qrz.com/callsign/vr2xmc --- 2008年11月25日 星期二,ron [EMAIL PROTECTED] 寫道﹕ 寄件人: ron [EMAIL PROTECTED] 主題: [Elecraft] xv432 收件人: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 日期: 2008 11 25 星期二 下午 8:56 big thanks to robert friess for helping me get my rig working. simple fix 10 ohm res in series with the power module input lead. stopped the rig from staying keyed at fullpower till i shut it off. now to make some contacts.thanks again, ron ___ 為了不斷提升Yahoo! Mail,雅虎香港誠邀你參與意見調查。請前往http://surveylink.yahoo.com/wix/p5429076.aspx 發表你的意見! ___ 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] xv432
still having problems with my xv432. voltage at tp-1 is 4.95 v, should be 2.50 nom. any ideas. get this fixed an then i can go on to the big problem. ron ___ 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] xv432
Hi Ron, Please keep the group informed of the latest development. It is interested to notice that there is NOT even one single product review of XV432 in eham.net. 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC --- 2008年11月24日 星期一,ron [EMAIL PROTECTED] 寫道﹕ 寄件人: ron [EMAIL PROTECTED] 主題: [Elecraft] xv432 收件人: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 日期: 2008 11 24 星期一 上午 12:03 still having problems with my xv432. voltage at tp-1 is 4.95 v, should be 2.50 nom. any ideas. get this fixed an then i can go on to the big problem. ron ___ 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 為了不斷提升Yahoo! Mail,雅虎香港誠邀你參與意見調查。請前往http://surveylink.yahoo.com/wix/p5429076.aspx 發表你的意見! ___ 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] xv432
Hi Ron, Have you applied the errata adding a cap and inductor to the RF module? 73, Bob 2008/11/23 Johnny Siu [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Hi Ron, Please keep the group informed of the latest development. It is interested to notice that there is NOT even one single product review of XV432 in eham.net. 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC --- 2008年11月24日 星期一,ron [EMAIL PROTECTED] 寫道﹕ 寄件人: ron [EMAIL PROTECTED] 主題: [Elecraft] xv432 收件人: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 日期: 2008 11 24 星期一 上午 12:03 still having problems with my xv432. voltage at tp-1 is 4.95 v, should be 2.50 nom. any ideas. get this fixed an then i can go on to the big problem. ron ___ 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 為了不斷提升Yahoo! Mail,雅虎香港誠邀你參與意見調查。請前往http://surveylink.yahoo.com/wix/p5429076.aspx 發表你的意見! ___ 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 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] xv432
anybody work on xv432. need mine fixed. itbeyond my abilities. ron ___ 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] xv432
it works on dummy load. on ant when you key it it goes to full power doesnt un key tiil you shut it off and the red led stays lit till you turn turn it back on. using k2 for radio.all other xv transverters work ok.where do i start looking. antenna works on a different radio. ron ___ 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] xv432
Ron, did you apply the changes in the Assembly manual errata? Bob, N6CM On Tue, Oct 21, 2008 at 6:34 PM, ron [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: it works on dummy load. on ant when you key it it goes to full power doesnt un key tiil you shut it off and the red led stays lit till you turn turn it back on. using k2 for radio.all other xv transverters work ok.where do i start looking. antenna works on a different radio. ron ___ 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 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] XV432 Frequency and Power Stability
Hi Stu, I am anxious to know the answer too. Please keep the group informed about how you solve your problem. This could be the reason why I have been hesitating to order my XV432 for years. 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC --- 2008年8月31日 星期日,Stu2 [EMAIL PROTECTED] 寫道﹕ 寄件人: Stu2 [EMAIL PROTECTED] 主題: [Elecraft] XV432 Frequency and Power Stability 收件人: elecraft@mailman.qth.net 日期: 2008 8 31 星期日 上午 3:54 Hi All, I finished assembling a XV432 transverter and seem to have a little problem with both power and frequency stability. After going through the alignment steps, the power starts dropping from 20W down to about 10 after sending CW into a dummy load for 20 seconds or so. During this time, the frequency drifts about 100 Hz. (Enough to detect a pitch change in another receiver.) I installed Q1 using the Teflon spacer. I have the crystal oven installed and the transverter was powered on for about 30 minutes or so before I aligned it. (JP9 is on 4-5.) The part values appear to be correct. The problem appears if I use a 5W source or a 1 milliwatt source. (Changing JP3,4,5,6 accordingly.) My radio is a SDR-5000A. The power module doesn't get warm. I do NOT have the extra 5 turn coil and the 10pf capacitor installed on the power module. (Rev C1 errata.) Has anybody else had this problem and if so, how did you fix it. Thanks! Stu W7IY 為了不斷提升Yahoo! Mail,雅虎香港誠邀你參與意見調查。請前往http://surveylink.yahoo.com/wix/p5429076.aspx 發表你的意見! 為了不斷提升Yahoo! Mail,雅虎香港誠邀你參與意見調查。請前往http://surveylink.yahoo.com/wix/p5429076.aspx 發表你的意見! ___ 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] XV432 Frequency and Power Stability
Hi All, I finished assembling a XV432 transverter and seem to have a little problem with both power and frequency stability. After going through the alignment steps, the power starts dropping from 20W down to about 10 after sending CW into a dummy load for 20 seconds or so. During this time, the frequency drifts about 100 Hz. (Enough to detect a pitch change in another receiver.) I installed Q1 using the Teflon spacer. I have the crystal oven installed and the transverter was powered on for about 30 minutes or so before I aligned it. (JP9 is on 4-5.) The part values appear to be correct. The problem appears if I use a 5W source or a 1 milliwatt source. (Changing JP3,4,5,6 accordingly.) My radio is a SDR-5000A. The power module doesn't get warm. I do NOT have the extra 5 turn coil and the 10pf capacitor installed on the power module. (Rev C1 errata.) Has anybody else had this problem and if so, how did you fix it. Thanks! Stu W7IY ___ 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] XV432 - users' comments
Hello Group. In response to my earlier email asking for the above, I have received one reply so far. Anyway, my second K3 has already been shipped so that it is now no point to place an order for xv432 in order to save shipping costs. Thanks for your time in reading my post. 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC Yahoo! Mail具備一流的網上安全保護功能,請前往 http://hk.antispam.yahoo.com/ 了解更多相關資訊! ___ 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] XV432 low output power
Hi Folks, I wonder if I can pick the collective brain about my XV432 which has low power output. I am driving the transverter with my K2 and the XV60. This is all fine as my XV144 performs perfectly. The problem is in my XV432. Key down I get about 7W output for the first second or so then as they key is held down the output drops along a pseudo logarithmic curve. The K2 indicates that the drive power is falling (this does not happen with my XV144). The typical voltages at active devices are OK (except for those which are cited for 20W output of course). The RX side seems OK, but I don't really have any serious test gear to run it against. R22, the input attenuator is fully CW, i.e. least attenuation. This suggests that there is not enough drive, but the tx voltage at output pin of U6 is fine. Could I have I partially toasted the factory installed amplifier (U6 - I hope not). Perhaps the drop in output power could imply a filter problem? I have checked all of the jumpers several times to see if is this an RTFM issue, but I am now stuck. Any suggestions? 73 Steve M0BPQ ___ 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] xv432
filter alignment, pg 28. when i try to adjust filters the voltage just keeps dropping.happens as soon as i key the rig. any sugestions. ron. ___ 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] xv432
Hi Ron, After the XV144, I am also considering a XV432. Please keep us updated or write your product review in the www.eham.net 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC From: Ron McMurray [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft post elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] xv432 Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2007 18:29:58 -0600 filter alignment, pg 28. when i try to adjust filters the voltage just keeps dropping.happens as soon as i key the rig. any sugestions. ron. _ 与世界各地的朋友进行交流,免费下载 Live Messenger; http://get.live.com/messenger/overview ___ 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] XV432 - product review in eham
Hi Group, I have just created a product review column in www.eham.net for XV432. I would be grateful if the XV432 users could give us their views. http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/6462 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC _ 与联机的朋友进行交流,请使用 Live Messenger; http://get.live.com/messenger/overview ___ 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] XV432, Q1...
Hi List, I soldered faster than I read. So Q1 is now installed in a common fashion without teflon spacer. Leads are clipped. What am I going to do now? If the teflon is just for spacing I would remove the Q, prolong the leads and install it without the teflon but spaced (I think the teflon won't fit then). Will this work or does the teflon some other magic? If the teflon does some other magic I think I have to order a new Q1... Have a nice weekend Gerhard ___ Telefonate ohne weitere Kosten vom PC zum PC: http://messenger.yahoo.de ___ 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] XV432, Q1...
I soldered faster than I read. So Q1 is now installed in a common fashion without teflon spacer. Leads are clipped. What am I going to do now? If the teflon is just for spacing I would remove the Q, prolong the leads and install it without the teflon but spaced (I think the teflon won't fit then). Will this work or does the teflon some other magic? If the teflon does some other magic I think I have to order a new Q1... Have a nice weekend Gerhard - Sorry to hear that Gerhard. I haven't tried it with the transistor installed against the board but, as I understand it, the leads are required for feedback for reliable operation. The Teflon spacer is a convenient way to set the length correctly. It should work if you splice on longer leads as long as they don't short out against each other. The other builders that I've heard of doing that replaced the transistor. You are NOT the first to install Q1 without reading the step. Did you get the Errata sheet that asked you to add this note ahead of that step? NOTE: Read the following step completely and refer to Figure 23 before installing Q1. Q1 is installed differently from other transistors in this kit. That should have started going out with the kits early this month (April) in response to a couple of others who did the same thing. Is there anything else we could do differently to warn builders to read before building? Ron AC7AC ___ 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] XV432 on the air!
Finally got around to building the XV432 this weekend .. pretty much goes together just like the other XV's, took me about 6 hours. Fired up just fine, got it tweaked and on the air last evening. I'll be drilling the prototype combination end-panel this evening, and if all goes well I'll post a pic of the 4-band stack installed in the Jitney tomorrow sometime. de w1rt/r john ___ 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] XV432 added to order page; New XV Data Sheet
Slight follow-on, the IC-7800 has (from memory) full RX up to 50 MHz or so. I'm not looking at using terrestrial 70cms at the moment, but no doubt this will happen at some time (who knows). With luck I'll have the IC-7000 in a few months, so for simplex 2m / 70cms this is the easier and (very essential) a portable option. Simon Brown --- http://blog.hb9drv.ch/ - Original Message - From: Simon Brown (HB9DRV) [EMAIL PROTECTED] What's the receive range on 70cms? I am looking for satellite support using a transverter with my IC-7800. ___ 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] XV432 added to order page; New XV Data Sheet
Simon, Since the IF is stated to be 28 to 32 MHz, I believe that translates into a receive range of 432 to 436 MHz. I recall something being said earlier about an optional crystal frequency for a different range, but I see nothing about that in the XV data sheet. 73, Don W3FPR -Original Message- What's the receive range on 70cms? I am looking for satellite support using a transverter with my IC-7800. Simon Brown --- http://blog.hb9drv.ch/ - Original Message - From: Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ, Elecraft [EMAIL PROTECTED] There also is a new XV data sheet (.pdf) on our manual download page that includes the XV432 information. See: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/XV%20Data%20Sheet%202006%20web.pdf ___ 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] XV432 added to order page; New XV Data Sheet
Hi, I just printed out the XV flyer (on my new OKI C5250 colour printer). Didn't see this info about the IF - I wonder if my IC-7800 will TX between 30 and 32 MHz in transverter mode - guess I'll have to ask around. I usually just listen anyway, rarely transmit. Simon Brown --- http://blog.hb9drv.ch/ - Original Message - From: Don Wilhelm [EMAIL PROTECTED] Since the IF is stated to be 28 to 32 MHz, I believe that translates into a receive range of 432 to 436 MHz. I recall something being said earlier about an optional crystal frequency for a different range, but I see nothing about that in the XV data sheet. ___ 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