RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
I have quintuple band stacking memories. I use the first ten memories programmed in strict band order (you soon get used to which band is which button) at 1kHz up from the band edge. I then have the four M1 to M4 buttons programmed at four frequencies within each band, two CW and two SSB. This gives me the ability to do very rapid band and frequency/mode within band changes. Admittedly it takes two button pushes each time but I don't really think that is much of an imposition. 73 Barry VK2BJ -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Brett Howard Sent: 21 October 2008 17:54 To: 'Charles Harpole'; 'Monty Shultes'; 'Rick Tavan N6XI'; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio There are band stacking memories and you can use the first 10 memories as quick access memories (and if you're smart) band buttons. Its all there you just have to learn to use it. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Charles Harpole Sent: Sunday, October 19, 2008 7:55 PM To: Monty Shultes; Rick Tavan N6XI; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio As a proud appliance operator, I want ease of use and punching in 1421400 plus mode and split and then entering the B split freq directly is just too much to ask of little me. Sure, u can use the rig from the existing front panel, but my point, sweat or no sweat, is that the thing is hard to use that way. Oh, for band stacking registers and band buttons. Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:31:02 -0400 CC: Charles must have been pretty tired at 1:17 AM EDT. I believe he lives in Texas. Perhaps perspiration from a long neck trickled into his eyes and made vision difficult, and he forgot about direct frequency entry. ___ 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 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: RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
Barry I'd be interested to know why you don't aim your starting point in the first memory bank onto one of the target frequencies that you put into the second bank. David G3UNA I have quintuple band stacking memories. I use the first ten memories programmed in strict band order (you soon get used to which band is which button) at 1kHz up from the band edge. I then have the four M1 to M4 buttons programmed at four frequencies within each band, two CW and two SSB. This gives me the ability to do very rapid band and frequency/mode within band changes. Admittedly it takes two button pushes each time but I don't really think that is much of an imposition. 73 Barry VK2BJ - Email sent from www.virginmedia.com/email Virus-checked using McAfee(R) Software and scanned for spam ___ 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: RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
Hi David That's just the way I decided to set it up. I have 025 programmed in to M2. 73 Barry VK2BJ -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: 22 October 2008 09:31 To: Barry Simpson; 'Brett Howard'; 'Charles Harpole'; 'Monty Shultes'; 'Rick Tavan N6XI'; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio Barry I'd be interested to know why you don't aim your starting point in the first memory bank onto one of the target frequencies that you put into the second bank. David G3UNA ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio
There are band stacking memories and you can use the first 10 memories as quick access memories (and if you're smart) band buttons. Its all there you just have to learn to use it. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Charles Harpole Sent: Sunday, October 19, 2008 7:55 PM To: Monty Shultes; Rick Tavan N6XI; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio As a proud appliance operator, I want ease of use and punching in 1421400 plus mode and split and then entering the B split freq directly is just too much to ask of little me. Sure, u can use the rig from the existing front panel, but my point, sweat or no sweat, is that the thing is hard to use that way. Oh, for band stacking registers and band buttons. Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:31:02 -0400 CC: Charles must have been pretty tired at 1:17 AM EDT. I believe he lives in Texas. Perhaps perspiration from a long neck trickled into his eyes and made vision difficult, and he forgot about direct frequency entry. ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
The only thing I've found less than optimum is the b-set press to gain access to sub-rx settings. It would be far more convenient to be able to manipulate sub-rx filter settings, antenna selection, band changes (eventually, as it's not supported in firmware yet), etc., w/o going through b-set, as well as another S-meter on display for the sub-rx (and filter/ant selection feedback). However, keeping in mind this is (or at least was) a field rig, the lack of direct control/feedback is understandable to keep things compact. However, with performance and specs being so damn good, it's taking over the desk position in more and more stations, esp. serious contesters/dxers. Just browse through the 3830 reflector log submissions, K3s are all over the place, including big-gun shacks, and gaining more acceptance than any other rig before it. With this shift, it may be advantageous to expand FP control. With SO2R, the sub-rx would see minimal use anyways, but DXers and SO2V ops would have far less fiddling around with some things broken out of b-set. Perhaps the next generation K-3 (K-3-Pro) could be a re-work of the front panel user-interface, ie. add a few more knobs/buttons and larger, more comprehensive display. Instead of re-designing any of the guts (ie. RF and daughter boards), a new, larger (taller) case, FP PCB + LCD, the extra knobs, new button film, et. al. could be offered as a retrofit kit, which basically just requires transferring the existing innards. Best 73 es cu in SS Eric NO3M (ex. NI3S) ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio
Can we get all the features Wayne currently has on his list first please, before we start talking about a 'Pro' version? And then perhaps the PA's? Instead of a different model of K3, how about an extension panel, that either supplants the front panel or better, is additional, by plugging into the 'service' RJ45 underneath. Or of course, you can just do it with CAT control from a program - except for perhaps a few, I would think we all use computers in the shack, and since we're talking about the K3 as a base station, then using the computer to control the K3 seems reasonable to me. 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 -- There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience. -French proverb On 20 Oct 2008, at 08:22, Eric Tichansky wrote: Perhaps the next generation K-3 (K-3-Pro) could be a re-work of the front panel user-interface, ie. add a few more knobs/buttons and larger, more comprehensive display. Instead of re-designing any of the guts (ie. RF and daughter boards), a new, larger (taller) case, FP PCB + LCD, the extra knobs, new button film, et. al. could be offered as a retrofit kit, which basically just requires transferring the existing innards. ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio
I wish I had a nickel for every time I changed the mode, when I wanted to change the band, or vice a versa. I would use all those nickels to by another K3 ;) . Now if I can just figure out a way to stop VOX from coming on when I go to phone, and screeching with the feedback. Which always surprises me since I do not use VOX on phone, but on RTTY and CW. 73 all es keep up the great work. An awesome list as always. David Wilburn NM4M Arie Kleingeld PA3A wrote: Charles, I also find that the way the front panel operates could be improved. But when I purchased the K3 , I knew about all double functions in advance (having a K2). Although I have more than a few flying hours on the K3, I still have to think twice before I change band or mode. The rest gives me no problem. No reason to sell the K3 or to control it by computer for me during normal operation. When in contest, I use N1MM logger as control program. Works just fine. 73 Arie PA3A ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
Yes, I'm always pressing Bank instead of mode, but it's just operator error 73 de M0XDF, K3 #174 -- Our society must make it right and possible for old people not to fear the young or be deserted by them, for the test of a civilization is the way that it cares for its helpless members. -Pearl S. Buck, Nobelist novelist (1892-1973) On 20 Oct 2008, at 13:49, David Wilburn wrote: I wish I had a nickel for every time I changed the mode, when I wanted to change the band, or vice a versa. I would use all those nickels to by another K3 ;) . Now if I can just figure out a way to stop VOX from coming on when I go to phone, and screeching with the feedback. Which always surprises me since I do not use VOX on phone, but on RTTY and CW. ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio 2
Honestly I find changing bands very fast once you use the 0-9 memory locations to store the bands into them and do a little bit of remembering with your noodle. I find the radio a pleasure to work with and the user interface works quite well. It just takes adaptation to. This brings up the old dog new tricks cliche... Some just don't like having to remember or learn anything new. On Sun, Oct 19, 2008 at 7:59 PM, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: That's my point, Rick. When one wants to really get with it for fast op, you and many others use computer control. The repeated reflector statements that list the wish it had seem almost as long as what it has and that tells u something. Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2008 07:06:44 -0700 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio I don't have any of the problems Charles mentions. The K3 front panel is very well designed, especially given its compact size. I change bands, modes and frequencies frequently. Although I have little patience for memorization, I find it very easy to remember my convention for using memory recall to go to 80m with Memory 8, 40m with Memory 4, etc. Although I have played around with Ham Radio Deluxe, a very nice program, I don't use it in day to day DXing, rag chewing, contesting or band searching. The K3 is a joy to use as is for every type of operating I do. I do use a logging program for contesting, of course, and it displays K3 frequency and mode. It can also change them. I don't use that capability for routine band/mode changes, preferring the front panel of the K3. I do use point and shoot to capture multipliers and that sometimes commands a band change. I may add a panadaptor some day. /Rick N6XI On 10/18/08, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: After two solid days of using the K3 to chase DX, changing bands and modes often, I conclude that the K3 should be mated with computer control for real flexibility in this application of use. The front panel is mainly for DXpeditions that stay on one freq/mode for long periods. Otherwise, I get a new band, or two, when I want to activate the VOX, as a typical example of the careful touch needed to get either one small push or a longer push... and the mistaken change also cancels out my selection of Split when I finally get back to the desired band. More buttons to CAREFULLY push. And without using the complex and easily forgotten scheme of programming the memories as band/mode change agents, going from CW band to phone means pushing the excursion speed button (Coarse, Fine, etc.), spinning the tuning knob frantically and changing the mode button with a slight push, not a heavy one. Yes, Elecrafters, I know there is a well-known work-around, but I have now concluded that the K3 front panel is vy difficult and that complete computer control is the answer, at least for DX chasers and those who make many band/mode changes in a short period of time. I suggest Elecraft market a computer program for the K3 asap, or at least make recommendations of those that seem best. But then, I ask myself, do I want a FLEX substitute? 73, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ 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 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
[Fwd: Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio]
not sure it was the correct Reply nor Sender addresses... ---BeginMessage--- Rob, I agree with you. I use also a FT857 (no D model) and i must say that i prefer the controls/buttons configuration of my K3. I must admit that the front panel size is not the same for these 2 TRX! I will just say that i prefer the syntax of the 857 menus with more explicit text as the K3. For a non English speaking OM, some abbreviations are not easy to understand and the Owner's Manual is indispensable (i speak for me...). Fortunately, for current use, MENU/CONFIG access is not necessary in my case. But for front panel controls, i find the K3 very well designed. My most used switches/buttons are the main VFO, AF gain (i just have preferred to have it under the RF gain but it's a little detail), SHIFT/WIDTH filter ( i greatly appreciate the automatic selection between 2.8, 1.8, 0.4 and 0.25 kHz filters during a WIDTH modification) and BAND switch. I also use often the ANT (for switching between 2 antennas) and ATU TUNE (one of my antenna is externally tuned and the internal tuner is used for the other). As i mostly work with digital modes (in conjunction with VOX mode), i appreciate the ease of switching between SWR/RF meter (normal use) and CMP(not used for me)/ ALC to verify if all is OK between PSK and JT65 (very) different digital modes.PWR is also often used to adjust output power according mode/conditions. To close my bandwidth consuming message, i can say that i'm very happy with Elecraft switches/controls design, hardware and firmware. 73 QRO fr Rudolf, HB9ARI (65 turns at PA, ham since 1970) Rob May wrote: I don't find any difficulty discerning between push and push and hold, that's been a feature of many consumer electronics for years. After 2 months with the K3 I'm still not familiar with all the features, menus and buttons, because I'm having more fun on the radio than I've had in years. The radio is just a joy to use. I don't find that switching modes or bands is a problem. Sometimes I have to fish around for a setting in the menus or look at the manual, but it's not as difficult as my FT-857D! As for a computer control program try Ham Radio Deluxe, the developer, Simon Brown, owns a K3 and HRD does a fine job. No need for Elecraft to reinvent the wheel. Rob NV5E From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2008 05:17:28 + Subject: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio After two solid days of using the K3 to chase DX, changing bands and modes often, I conclude that the K3 should be mated with computer control for real flexibility in this application of use. The front panel is mainly for DXpeditions that stay on one freq/mode for long periods. Otherwise, I get a new band, or two, when I want to activate the VOX, as a typical example of the careful touch needed to get either one small push or a longer push... and the mistaken change also cancels out my selection of Split when I finally get back to the desired band. More buttons to CAREFULLY push. And without using the complex and easily forgotten scheme of programming the memories as band/mode change agents, going from CW band to phone means pushing the excursion speed button (Coarse, Fine, etc.), spinning the tuning knob frantically and changing the mode button with a slight push, not a heavy one. Yes, Elecrafters, I know there is a well-known work-around, but I have now concluded that the K3 front panel is vy difficult and that complete computer control is the answer, at least for DX chasers and those who make many band/mode changes in a short period of time. I suggest Elecraft market a computer program for the K3 asap, or at least make recommendations of those that seem best. But then, I ask myself, do I want a FLEX substitute? 73, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ 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 _ Store, manage and share up to 5GB with Windows Live SkyDrive. http://skydrive.live.com/welcome.aspx?provision=1?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_skydrive_102008___ 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 ---End Message--- ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr.
Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
Charles I don't have any problem driving my K3 in either contests or just plain ragchewing... 3rd party software is not an Elecraft issue. One of the best value contest programs is N1MM's Logger, it integrates nicely to the K3 and will directly key it via the serial port with no extra hardware or cables needed... Although it might key more smoothly slow PCs if you use K1EL's Winkey. It picks DX Cluster spots displaying them on a tuning scale, you click on the station you want to work, hit another key to call and another key to send a report. Press yet another key to log the QSO. Other than shooting fish in a barrel it doesn't come any easier. 73 Dave, G4AON K3/100 #80 ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio
I don't have any of the problems Charles mentions. The K3 front panel is very well designed, especially given its compact size. I change bands, modes and frequencies frequently. Although I have little patience for memorization, I find it very easy to remember my convention for using memory recall to go to 80m with Memory 8, 40m with Memory 4, etc. Although I have played around with Ham Radio Deluxe, a very nice program, I don't use it in day to day DXing, rag chewing, contesting or band searching. The K3 is a joy to use as is for every type of operating I do. I do use a logging program for contesting, of course, and it displays K3 frequency and mode. It can also change them. I don't use that capability for routine band/mode changes, preferring the front panel of the K3. I do use point and shoot to capture multipliers and that sometimes commands a band change. I may add a panadaptor some day. /Rick N6XI On 10/18/08, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: After two solid days of using the K3 to chase DX, changing bands and modes often, I conclude that the K3 should be mated with computer control for real flexibility in this application of use. The front panel is mainly for DXpeditions that stay on one freq/mode for long periods. Otherwise, I get a new band, or two, when I want to activate the VOX, as a typical example of the careful touch needed to get either one small push or a longer push... and the mistaken change also cancels out my selection of Split when I finally get back to the desired band. More buttons to CAREFULLY push. And without using the complex and easily forgotten scheme of programming the memories as band/mode change agents, going from CW band to phone means pushing the excursion speed button (Coarse, Fine, etc.), spinning the tuning knob frantically and changing the mode button with a slight push, not a heavy one. Yes, Elecrafters, I know there is a well-known work-around, but I have now concluded that the K3 front panel is vy difficult and that complete computer control is the answer, at least for DX chasers and those who make many band/mode changes in a short period of time. I suggest Elecraft market a computer program for the K3 asap, or at least make recommendations of those that seem best. But then, I ask myself, do I want a FLEX substitute? 73, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio
Charles, I also find that the way the front panel operates could be improved. But when I purchased the K3 , I knew about all double functions in advance (having a K2). Although I have more than a few flying hours on the K3, I still have to think twice before I change band or mode. The rest gives me no problem. No reason to sell the K3 or to control it by computer for me during normal operation. When in contest, I use N1MM logger as control program. Works just fine. 73 Arie PA3A ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio
Charles must have been pretty tired at 1:17 AM EDT. I believe he lives in Texas. Perhaps perspiration from a long neck trickled into his eyes and made vision difficult, and he forgot about direct frequency entry.___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio
As a proud appliance operator, I want ease of use and punching in 1421400 plus mode and split and then entering the B split freq directly is just too much to ask of little me. Sure, u can use the rig from the existing front panel, but my point, sweat or no sweat, is that the thing is hard to use that way. Oh, for band stacking registers and band buttons. Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:31:02 -0400 CC: Charles must have been pretty tired at 1:17 AM EDT. I believe he lives in Texas. Perhaps perspiration from a long neck trickled into his eyes and made vision difficult, and he forgot about direct frequency entry. ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio 2
That's my point, Rick. When one wants to really get with it for fast op, you and many others use computer control. The repeated reflector statements that list the wish it had seem almost as long as what it has and that tells u something. Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2008 07:06:44 -0700 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio I don't have any of the problems Charles mentions. The K3 front panel is very well designed, especially given its compact size. I change bands, modes and frequencies frequently. Although I have little patience for memorization, I find it very easy to remember my convention for using memory recall to go to 80m with Memory 8, 40m with Memory 4, etc. Although I have played around with Ham Radio Deluxe, a very nice program, I don't use it in day to day DXing, rag chewing, contesting or band searching. The K3 is a joy to use as is for every type of operating I do. I do use a logging program for contesting, of course, and it displays K3 frequency and mode. It can also change them. I don't use that capability for routine band/mode changes, preferring the front panel of the K3. I do use point and shoot to capture multipliers and that sometimes commands a band change. I may add a panadaptor some day. /Rick N6XI On 10/18/08, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: After two solid days of using the K3 to chase DX, changing bands and modes often, I conclude that the K3 should be mated with computer control for real flexibility in this application of use. The front panel is mainly for DXpeditions that stay on one freq/mode for long periods. Otherwise, I get a new band, or two, when I want to activate the VOX, as a typical example of the careful touch needed to get either one small push or a longer push... and the mistaken change also cancels out my selection of Split when I finally get back to the desired band. More buttons to CAREFULLY push. And without using the complex and easily forgotten scheme of programming the memories as band/mode change agents, going from CW band to phone means pushing the excursion speed button (Coarse, Fine, etc.), spinning the tuning knob frantically and changing the mode button with a slight push, not a heavy one. Yes, Elecrafters, I know there is a well-known work-around, but I have now concluded that the K3 front panel is vy difficult and that complete computer control is the answer, at least for DX chasers and those who make many band/mode changes in a short period of time. I suggest Elecraft market a computer program for the K3 asap, or at least make recommendations of those that seem best. But then, I ask myself, do I want a FLEX substitute? 73, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio 2
All contesters use logging programs, Charles, regardless of the type of radio they are using. Contesting without a logging program is like living without indoor plumbing. You can do it but in the first world you don't. No radio on the planet changes this. /Rick On 10/19/08, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: That's my point, Rick. When one wants to really get with it for fast op, you and many others use computer control. ___ 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] K3 is really a computer radio
I don't find any difficulty discerning between push and push and hold, that's been a feature of many consumer electronics for years. After 2 months with the K3 I'm still not familiar with all the features, menus and buttons, because I'm having more fun on the radio than I've had in years. The radio is just a joy to use. I don't find that switching modes or bands is a problem. Sometimes I have to fish around for a setting in the menus or look at the manual, but it's not as difficult as my FT-857D! As for a computer control program try Ham Radio Deluxe, the developer, Simon Brown, owns a K3 and HRD does a fine job. No need for Elecraft to reinvent the wheel. Rob NV5E From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2008 05:17:28 + Subject: [Elecraft] K3 is really a computer radio After two solid days of using the K3 to chase DX, changing bands and modes often, I conclude that the K3 should be mated with computer control for real flexibility in this application of use. The front panel is mainly for DXpeditions that stay on one freq/mode for long periods. Otherwise, I get a new band, or two, when I want to activate the VOX, as a typical example of the careful touch needed to get either one small push or a longer push... and the mistaken change also cancels out my selection of Split when I finally get back to the desired band. More buttons to CAREFULLY push. And without using the complex and easily forgotten scheme of programming the memories as band/mode change agents, going from CW band to phone means pushing the excursion speed button (Coarse, Fine, etc.), spinning the tuning knob frantically and changing the mode button with a slight push, not a heavy one. Yes, Elecrafters, I know there is a well-known work-around, but I have now concluded that the K3 front panel is vy difficult and that complete computer control is the answer, at least for DX chasers and those who make many band/mode changes in a short period of time. I suggest Elecraft market a computer program for the K3 asap, or at least make recommendations of those that seem best. But then, I ask myself, do I want a FLEX substitute? 73, Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ 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 _ Store, manage and share up to 5GB with Windows Live SkyDrive. http://skydrive.live.com/welcome.aspx?provision=1?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_skydrive_102008___ 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
