Re: [Elecraft] UPGRADE VERSION 3.11

2009-05-28 Thread Jon K Hellan
Don Wilhelm wrote: Atilano, The K3 is waiting for a firmware load - MCU LD plus a blinking TX indicator is how that condition is displayed. I suggest you download the firmware again to assure that you do not have a corrupt firmware file on your computer, then run K3 Utility again to

[Elecraft] N2CQ QRP Contest Calendar: May 30 - June 28, 2009

2009-05-28 Thread Ken Newman
~ N2CQ QRP CONTEST CALENDAR May 30 - June 28, 2009 ~ CQWW WPX Contest (CW) ... QRP Category May 30, z to May 31, 2359z Rules:

Re: [Elecraft] K144XV 2M Module and W2 Wattmeter on Web Order Form

2009-05-28 Thread w4sec
It is also pending the release of a newer faster surface mount version of the Signetics Write-Only memory ICs (WOMs)- Here is a link to the data sheet pdf- http://www.national.com/rap/files/datasheet.pdf -Pete Jack Smith Wed, 27 May 2009 15:48:04 -0700 Lyle: Does this mean I no longer need

Re: [Elecraft] OT: transistor theory flaw

2009-05-28 Thread Sandy
This reminds me of Major Edwin Armstrong's saying he used so much, especially when he was told by Crosby that wideband FM would not be practical. Amstrong retorted to himself with It's what we know that ain't always so! (or something very close to that.) I have seen phenomena regarding

Re: [Elecraft] OT: transistor theory flaw

2009-05-28 Thread Matt Palmer
I disagree, the experts are always right, its just the people who are claiming to be an 'expert' are not always so. I hear this in a commencement speach this year keep a healthy disregard for the impossible and all engineers should have this. This 'flaw' in transistor theory only presents itself

Re: [Elecraft] K144XV 2M Module and W2 Wattmeter on Web Order Form

2009-05-28 Thread Grant Youngman
It was humorous until I got to the characteristic curve of pins remaining vs. insertions. Then it turned into a belly laugh .. :-) Grant/NQ5T On May 28, 2009, at 10:20 AM, Jack Smith wrote: I have a printed copy of the WOM data sheet obtained from Signetics many many years ago.

[Elecraft] [K3] Difference in sensitivity on 50 MHz between K3 and KRX3

2009-05-28 Thread Joe Barger
Hi All, I have the KRX3 installed in my K3. Using identical setup (PRE, ATT, filter, filter widths, mode, etc.), the S-meter levels between the main RX and the KRX3 are pretty close on all bands except 50 MHz, where the KRX3 sensitivity seems to be about 15 db or so lower and the MDS is

Re: [Elecraft] Successfully using a micro fan to keep K2 cool

2009-05-28 Thread Phil-W6TQG
I connect one side of the fan to power and the other to the PA Key Out connector of my K2/100, so that the fan runs only while transmitting. Of course the optimum method depends on the operator. 73 de Phil/W6TQG -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net

[Elecraft] T1 Question

2009-05-28 Thread bicyclepeddl...@netzero.com
Hi Folks, Wanting to try my 5 Band Traffie Hex on 40 Meters. Will the T1 be able to do the matching for this well enough to be a good investment and a workable solution to having a beam on 40 Mtrs? Tnx, 72, John N0LT Take care and enjoy.

Re: [Elecraft] K3-Squelch Sub Pot

2009-05-28 Thread JIM DAVIS
On Tue, 26 May 2009 20:13:39 -0700 (PDT) Jim - W6VAR w6...@comcast.net wrote: I just tried listening to a 6M FM net on my K3. I set SQ SUB to Sub Pot and noticed that the squelch opens when the sub rf/sql is adjusted full clockwise. Backing of slightly closes the squelch. Anyone else

Re: [Elecraft] T1 Question

2009-05-28 Thread Ron D'Eau Claire
John, the 5-band Traffie Hex I've seen is a 10/12/15/17/20 meter antenna. I'd not expect it to provide any directivity or be particularly efficient at 40 meters. The T1 *might* provide a match to the feed line, but the feed line will typically show a very high SWR and so be very lossy. Under

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Difference in sensitivity on 50 MHz between K3 and KRX3

2009-05-28 Thread Lyle Johnson
Do other users of the KRX3 on 50 MHz notice the same difference in sensitivity between the KRX3 and K3 on 50 MHz when using the Main input? Or is something wrong with my K3/KRX3 on 50 MHz? I just ran a quick test on my development radio (S/N 2, so not with all the latest changes -- or

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Difference in sensitivity on 50 MHz between K3 and KRX3

2009-05-28 Thread Lyle Johnson
I just ran a quick test on my development radio (S/N 2, so not with all the latest changes -- or maybe with even later ones :-) and find the sensitivity of the Main and Sub to be equivalent on 50 MHz and 14 MHz Let me clarify: the two receivers' MDS track on 14 MHz, and they track 50

[Elecraft] K3 tune mode question

2009-05-28 Thread K3JPS
Dear group, I've recently acquired an SB-220. I'm new to linear amplifier operation so please bear with me. I'd like to know if there is some way to get the tune function in the K3 to act like a pulser or a keyer sending dits at 40-50wpm? I'm learning how to tune this amp, and I've been using

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Case screws rusting

2009-05-28 Thread g7vjr
Many thanks for the tips on the case screws. An internal inspection shows nothing amiss so I will buy some stainless screws next time I have a chance. Cheers Michael G7VJR -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/Case-screws-rusting-tp2968823p2989344.html Sent from the [K3]

Re: [Elecraft] OT: transistor theory flaw

2009-05-28 Thread Sandy
I have ALWAYS abhorred and loathed the title: Expert. I am always skeptical of people who use that title. Reminds me of an old ancient saying: The MORE we knowthe more we find out we DON'T KNOW. Many of the pop scientists of our time hide behind the title EXPERT and their many degrees in

[Elecraft] ext ALC problem

2009-05-28 Thread Howard K2HK
I am having a problem with the external ALC. I am trying a new amp that requires ALC feedback. When I set it in the config menu regardless of the value -2 to -8 my output is reduced to 60 watts. As I raise the drive it increases until about 60 watts then cuts back. In the tune position which I

Re: [Elecraft] ext ALC problem

2009-05-28 Thread Howard K2HK
Hi Monty, I was just pointing out that the CX was the same connected to the amp or not. My K3 does put out in excess of 100 watts when ALC is turned off. I did adjust the ALC control on the amp. This had no result on the K3 output, i.e. 60 watts max ALC on, full output 100+ with ALC off.

Re: [Elecraft] ext ALC problem

2009-05-28 Thread Jim Brown
On Thu, 28 May 2009 19:04:17 +, Howard K2HK wrote: I am having a problem with the external ALC. I am trying a new amp that requires ALC feedback. It is VERY rare for a modern power amp to REQUIRE ALC. The proper way to drive an amp is to use the transceiver's power control to set the

Re: [Elecraft] K144XV 2M Module and W2 Wattmeter on Web Order Form

2009-05-28 Thread Neill Taylor
At 09:26 27/05/2009 -0700, wayne burdick wrote: The K144XV increasing K3 band coverage to 160-2 m, which will be great for those with limited space or the need for 2 m for portable/mobile/marine operation. But it isn't for everyone, of course. Some 2-m ops will prefer the slightly better NF and

Re: [Elecraft] K3 tune mode question

2009-05-28 Thread Don Wilhelm
James, A string of dots from the K3 will give full power at a 50% duty cycle. Plug the paddles into the paddle jack and switch to CW - the internal keyer will go up to 50 wpm. I suggest you do a pre-tune of the amp at low power, then use the CW keying to 'touch up' the amp controls. 73,

[Elecraft] K3 VFO A knob problem

2009-05-28 Thread Ken Kopp
The shiny surface inside the finger dimple of the large VFO A knob is peeling off in small thin pieces, and is now about 50% gone. I'm not aware of any chemical associated with my index finger ... other than perhaps dirt. (;-) Anyone else noticed this? 73! Ken Kopp - K0PP

Re: [Elecraft] ext ALC problem

2009-05-28 Thread Don Wilhelm
Howard, It sounds like the ALC voltage coming out of your amplifier is much greater than the K3 ALC input range. The ALC voltage from your amplifier is reducing the K3 power output. I believe the problem is with the amplifier, not the K3. Remove the ALC connection to your amplifier, then

Re: [Elecraft] K3 VFO A knob problem

2009-05-28 Thread Bill K9YEQ
Fingernail length? Mine has no issues but I don't tune all that much using the dimple. I do the Coarse and spin the dial when checking out a band. 73, Bill K9YEQ K2 #35; KX1 #35; K3 #1744; mini mods ATS-3B -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net

[Elecraft] K3 VFO A knob problem

2009-05-28 Thread Ken Kopp
Thought of that, Bill but I don't think so I've had/used the radio a couple of years (S/N 56) and the peeling has just started. My nails are pretty short, and rounded, without sharp edges that would tend to dig' into the surface. It looks like there's a shiny veneer surface that's

[Elecraft] [K3] Elecraft OT - Lightning Protection

2009-05-28 Thread Len, K3LJ
I know this is an off topic subject and would like information on what people are using for lightning protection on their feed lines and rotor cables. I would like you to reply off line to my email address - k...@arrl.net. Thanks in advance to those who reply. 73, Len K3LJ -- View this

Re: [Elecraft] ext ALC problem

2009-05-28 Thread Howard K2HK
Don, The output of the K3 decreases regardless of whether it is attached to amp or not when ALC is turned on. At this point I believe the problem to be in the area of the digital I/O board. If (when) I decide to use the external ALC I will check it out. Howard HK From:

[Elecraft] W2 kit question for the designer dudes

2009-05-28 Thread NZ0T
Will the W2 have an accurate calibration procedure that can be performed by a builder with the usual lack of test equipment or will it need to be sen back to Aptos for that like some of the other upscale meter kits? When will the manual be available to download? Looks like a really neat device!

Re: [Elecraft] K144XV 2M Module and W2 Wattmeter on Web Order Form

2009-05-28 Thread John N1JM
This is a YMMV, but personally I don't know why one would want to put all their eggs in one basket or all their radios in one box. I fact I would rather have a separate 6 meter radio, which I do. Of course i could buy another K3:-D -- View this message in context:

Re: [Elecraft] OT: transistor theory flaw

2009-05-28 Thread David Yarnes
As I heard it described one time, you should break the word expert down into two syllables. An Ex is a has-been, and a spurt is a drip under pressure! Dave W7AQK - Original Message - From: Sandy ebj...@charter.net To: Matt Palmer kd8...@gmail.com Cc: Elecraft Group

Re: [Elecraft] ext ALC problem

2009-05-28 Thread Don Wilhelm
Howard, You are correct, with nothing connected to the K3 EXT ALC connection, there should be no power reduction for the K3. Yes, you should contact k3supp...@elecraft.com to see if it can be tracked down and corrected. I am sorry that we initially misinterpreted your email to the reflector.

Re: [Elecraft] K3 tune mode question

2009-05-28 Thread K3JPS
Well, I finally figured out how to tune this SB-220 using what Elecraft gave me for now. FSK-D at 50W is a good place to start; quickly peak tune and load while keeping an eye on lg and lp seems to work well. That portion of the tuning takes me about 5 to 7 seconds to do. I then bump power up

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Elecraft OT - Lightning Protection

2009-05-28 Thread Don Wilhelm
Len, I am not certain why you want only off reflector replies. I would think this would be a suitable subject for general interest, and related to the protection of Elecraft equipment. Lightning Protection done correctly can be very involved. It consists of a grounding scheme of many large

Re: [Elecraft] K3 tune mode question

2009-05-28 Thread Jim Wiley
James - Sounds like you have the basic idea. The only thing I would mention is that the 3-500Z tubes are rated for I believe 120 mA max grid current (each) - so keeping the grid current to 240 mA or less for 2 tubes will help insure long life. I have a Drake L-4B that also uses a pair of