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First impressions of KPA1500 #113

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Les Peters

First impressions of KPA1500 #113

Arrived May 5th and setup was easy. I’m noticing periodically a momentary higher than normal SWR indication on the SWR bar graph. And I’m still trying to get used to the ATU. I’m experiencing the ATU having to make adjustments sometimes at the start of a transmission after the ATU has already been properly setup for the antenna and band. Is anyone else experiencing anything this or am I doing something wrong?

Les, N1SV
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Larry (K8UT)

Re: First impressions of KPA1500 #113

Hi Les

I also noticed the phantom SWR indication (jump to 3.4:1 on my amp,
displayed after transmitting - in Rx mode) that has only occurred twice,
and those times when the temp approached 60c. The output does not seem
to be affected - power level stays the same, and no fault condition gets
triggered. My external SWR/Power monitors also remained unchanged, so I
am thinking it is a display-only problem that is internal to the amp.

To try and avoid unexpected ATU retuning, studied the specs for the ATU
memories (page 17 of the preliminary doc) and methodically spun the VFO
across every band, pre-recording in ATU memory the settings for every
band/segment based on its intervals (10KHz, 20KHz, 100KHz, 200KHz).
Thereafter I just let the amp decide what it needs to do when changing
bands/frequencies. Have not witnessed any re-turning.

-larry (K8UT)

------ Original Message ------
From: "Les Peters" <[hidden email]>
To: [hidden email]
Sent: 2018-05-10 21:39:14
Subject: [Elecraft] First impressions of KPA1500 #113

>Arrived May 5th and setup was easy. I’m noticing periodically a
>momentary higher than normal SWR indication on the SWR bar graph. And
>I’m still trying to get used to the ATU. I’m experiencing the ATU
>having to make adjustments sometimes at the start of a transmission
>after the ATU has already been properly setup for the antenna and band.
>Is anyone else experiencing anything this or am I doing something
>wrong?
>
>
>Les, N1SV
>______________________________________________________________
>Elecraft mailing list
>Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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>Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
>This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
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Roy Koeppe

Re: First impressions of KPA1500 #113

In reply to this post by Les Peters

Les,

Possibly "power drift" in your antenna? Sometimes trap antennas have ceramic
capacitors which drift under high power. Try a dummy load, etc. I think the
SWR threshold point at which the auto tuner makes correction is adjustable
in the amp. Try setting it up a little higher? Please let us know...

73, Roy K6XK

-----Original Message-----
From: Les Peters
Sent: Thursday, May 10, 2018 8:39 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] First impressions of KPA1500 #113

Arrived May 5th and setup was easy. I’m noticing periodically a momentary
higher than normal SWR indication on the SWR bar graph. And I’m still trying
to get used to the ATU. I’m experiencing the ATU having to make adjustments
sometimes at the start of a transmission after the ATU has already been
properly setup for the antenna and band. Is anyone else experiencing
anything this or am I doing something wrong?

Les, N1SV

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Buck

Re: First impressions of KPA1500 #113

In reply to this post by Les Peters

If the tuner is like the KAT500, you should switch to Manual operation
after you have trained it. Then, it won't be allowed to try re-tuning
with every little blip in power.

k4ia, Buck
K3# 101
Honor Roll 8B DXCC
EasyWayHamBooks.com

On 5/10/2018 9:39 PM, Les Peters wrote:

> Arrived May 5th and setup was easy. I’m noticing periodically a momentary higher than normal SWR indication on the SWR bar graph. And I’m still trying to get used to the ATU. I’m experiencing the ATU having to make adjustments sometimes at the start of a transmission after the ATU has already been properly setup for the antenna and band. Is anyone else experiencing anything this or am I doing something wrong?
>
>
> Les, N1SV
> ______________________________________________________________
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> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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wayne burdick

Re: First impressions of KPA1500 #113

Administrator

In reply to this post by Les Peters

Les,

We’re virtually certain this is a firmware issue affecting only the bar graph. Once it has been corrected, we’ll issue a new release. The indication has no other implications, so you can keep on using the amp normally.

73,
Wayne
N6KR

----
http://www.elecraft.com

> On May 10, 2018, at 6:39 PM, Les Peters <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> Arrived May 5th and setup was easy. I’m noticing periodically a momentary higher than normal SWR indication on the SWR bar graph. And I’m still trying to get used to the ATU. I’m experiencing the ATU having to make adjustments sometimes at the start of a transmission after the ATU has already been properly setup for the antenna and band. Is anyone else experiencing anything this or am I doing something wrong?
>
>
> Les, N1SV
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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Clay Autery-2

Re: First impressions of KPA1500 #113

Reason #1001 I am an Elecraft owner. Ongoing support and development.

Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
-------- Original message --------From: Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> Date: 5/11/18 09:53 (GMT-06:00) To: Les Peters <[hidden email]> Cc: [hidden email] Subject: Re: [Elecraft] First impressions of KPA1500 #113
Les,

We’re virtually certain this is a firmware issue affecting only the bar graph. Once it has been corrected, we’ll issue a new release. The indication has no other implications, so you can keep on using the amp normally.

73,
Wayne
N6KR
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Elecraft mailing list

K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

In reply to this post by wayne burdick

Hi guys,

I’m looking to purchase a K3S in the near future and I would like y’alls input on which options to include. I had a K3 before however due to financial issues I had to sell it. Now I want to get back into radio again and I want to get a K3S.

I mostly get on the OMISS Nets on 40m however I want to also learn how to Dx on 20m (and other bands?) soon. And I want to eventually start CW after I teach myself how to CW. Those are my near term goals (next two years). One consideration is that whatever I include when I order the K3S will be installed and calibrated by Elecraft at the factory. If I added options later I would have down time and cost of shipping and cost of the work as well (I don’t really want to do it myself even though I did build my first K3).

I am likely going to include the 2.7 filter.

Other possible options are:

Other filters
General Rx
Second Rx
???

Thanks,
Michael
KK6RWK
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Don Wilhelm

Re: K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

Michael,

For the options, you will have to look at your station and your
operating desires. You gave no specifics, so the answer could be "All
the options".

Do you have all resonant antennas? If not, add the KAT3A.
Do you operate in contests or other situations where there may be strong
stations near your fequency? If so, you will want the 400Hz CW filter
and possibly the 2.1kHz SSB filter.
Do you want to do DXing where the DX is working split? If so, you will
want the KRX3, for best results - listening to both the DX and the pileup.
Do you want to do continual calling in a voice contest and save your
voice? If so, add the DVR.
Do you want to operate FM? If so, the 13kHz filter is needed.
Do you want to operate AM or ESSB? If so, either the 6kHz or 13kHz
filter will be needed.
Do you want to do SWLing? Then add the KBPF3.

The 2.7kHz filter comes as standard, but you can upgrade to the steeper
skirted 2.8kHz width. You may want a P3 to go along with the K3S for
all but casual operating.

In other words, order for the operating needs that your desires require
for the best ease of operation for you.

You may also find one of the Packages listed on the website to your
liking, look them over.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 5/11/2018 3:49 PM, Michael Gillen via Elecraft wrote:

> Hi guys,
>
> I’m looking to purchase a K3S in the near future and I would like y’alls input on which options to include. I had a K3 before however due to financial issues I had to sell it. Now I want to get back into radio again and I want to get a K3S.
>
> I mostly get on the OMISS Nets on 40m however I want to also learn how to Dx on 20m (and other bands?) soon. And I want to eventually start CW after I teach myself how to CW. Those are my near term goals (next two years). One consideration is that whatever I include when I order the K3S will be installed and calibrated by Elecraft at the factory. If I added options later I would have down time and cost of shipping and cost of the work as well (I don’t really want to do it myself even though I did build my first K3).
>
> I am likely going to include the 2.7 filter.
>
> Other possible options are:
>
> Other filters
> General Rx
> Second Rx
> ???
>
>
> Thanks,
> Michael
> KK6RWK
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to [hidden email]
>

Les Peters

Re: First impressions of KPA1500 #113

In reply to this post by wayne burdick

I appreciate your quick reply here as well as the detailed info from your support staff. Its heartening to know that there is this attention to support.

Les, N1SV

> On May 11, 2018 at 10:53 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>
> Les,
>
> We’re virtually certain this is a firmware issue affecting only the bar graph. Once it has been corrected, we’ll issue a new release. The indication has no other implications, so you can keep on using the amp normally.
>
> 73,
> Wayne
> N6KR

Wes Stewart-2

Re: K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

In reply to this post by Elecraft mailing list

Since you've had a K3 before, you should have some insight as to how if
fulfilled your needs.

The radios are very similar, I have both and for the most part don't see a world
of difference, other than the old one is more reliable. The K3S preamp is
better if you care about the higher bands.

I am mainly interested in chasing DX. Because I have a KPA500 and KAT500, I
don't have a tuner in either radio, although obviously, the old K3 predates the
external amp/tuner. Also, I don't have a second receiver. You can work DX,
even with wide splits without one. I do it all the time.

I would recommend the 2.8 kHz filter just because the symmetry is better and
this affects TX opposite sideband rejection. I have a 400 Hz and a 250 Hz
filter, only because I was given the latter. The 400 is fine for CW and optimum
if you venture into RTTY.

If you're only interested in a couple of bands you should be able to have
matched antennas and won't need a tuner.

If you want general coverage RX or are interested in the VLF stuff get the
filter. But really, installing one later is a matter of removing a few screws
from the top cover and plugging it in. The same is true of crystal filters
except you have to remove two covers. Don't be afraid of this stuff. You have
a ham license remember?

Wes N7WS

On 5/11/2018 12:49 PM, Michael Gillen via Elecraft wrote:

George Thornton

Re: K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

I would add to that my comments:

I think if you are chasing DX on sideband it might be helpful to also get either the 1.8 or 2.1 filter. These filters are effective at blanking out adjacent stations so you can hear the weaker DX signal.

I would not be afraid to go under the hood and add things as long as you don't have the second receiver. In my opinion the second receiver installation is very tricky. Clearances are very tight with the second receiver and installation is tricky.

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email] [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Wes Stewart
Sent: Friday, May 11, 2018 2:53 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

Since you've had a K3 before, you should have some insight as to how if fulfilled your needs.

The radios are very similar, I have both and for the most part don't see a world of difference, other than the old one is more reliable. The K3S preamp is better if you care about the higher bands.

I am mainly interested in chasing DX. Because I have a KPA500 and KAT500, I don't have a tuner in either radio, although obviously, the old K3 predates the external amp/tuner. Also, I don't have a second receiver. You can work DX, even with wide splits without one. I do it all the time.

I would recommend the 2.8 kHz filter just because the symmetry is better and this affects TX opposite sideband rejection. I have a 400 Hz and a 250 Hz filter, only because I was given the latter. The 400 is fine for CW and optimum if you venture into RTTY.

If you're only interested in a couple of bands you should be able to have matched antennas and won't need a tuner.

If you want general coverage RX or are interested in the VLF stuff get the filter. But really, installing one later is a matter of removing a few screws from the top cover and plugging it in. The same is true of crystal filters except you have to remove two covers. Don't be afraid of this stuff. You have a ham license remember?

Wes N7WS

On 5/11/2018 12:49 PM, Michael Gillen via Elecraft wrote:

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Don Sayler

Re: K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

In reply to this post by Elecraft mailing list

One thing to consider on the sub-receiver...
If you don't have a dedicated receive antenna, you may find the sub-receiver's performance lacking. It depends on how you want to use it.

Don
W7OXR

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email] [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Michael Gillen via Elecraft
Sent: Friday, May 11, 2018 12:50 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

Hi guys,

I�m looking to purchase a K3S in the near future and I would like y�alls input on which options to include. I had a K3 before however due to financial issues I had to sell it. Now I want to get back into radio again and I want to get a K3S.

I mostly get on the OMISS Nets on 40m however I want to also learn how to Dx on 20m (and other bands?) soon. And I want to eventually start CW after I teach myself how to CW. Those are my near term goals (next two years). One consideration is that whatever I include when I order the K3S will be installed and calibrated by Elecraft at the factory. If I added options later I would have down time and cost of shipping and cost of the work as well (I don�t really want to do it myself even though I did build my first K3).

I am likely going to include the 2.7 filter.

Other possible options are:

Other filters
General Rx
Second Rx
???

Thanks,
Michael
KK6RWK
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Elecraft mailing list

Re: K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

In reply to this post by Elecraft mailing list

Thanks for all the replies and good advice!
I’m going to get the K3S with the antenna tuner (I’m just using a wire strung between two trees) and the 2.7kHz filter. I’ll add filters as I see the need and the other stuff too like a DVR, second Rx, etc. I’ll just wait until my experience progresses and I really feel like I would benefit from the various options. I was reminded that the parts are calibrated at the factory ready for me to install them at a later date if I wish and that its not that hard until you get the second Rx so I can add filers and other options myself as needed. Probably order the “Casual User” package as its slightly cheaper to go that route than a la cart. I still have my old antenna, mic, headphones, power supply, etc so just need the radio.

Thanks again for all the emails!

Michael
KK6RWK

> On May 11, 2018, at 12:49 PM, Michael Gillen via Elecraft <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> Hi guys,
>
> I’m looking to purchase a K3S in the near future and I would like y’alls input on which options to include. I had a K3 before however due to financial issues I had to sell it. Now I want to get back into radio again and I want to get a K3S.
>
> I mostly get on the OMISS Nets on 40m however I want to also learn how to Dx on 20m (and other bands?) soon. And I want to eventually start CW after I teach myself how to CW. Those are my near term goals (next two years). One consideration is that whatever I include when I order the K3S will be installed and calibrated by Elecraft at the factory. If I added options later I would have down time and cost of shipping and cost of the work as well (I don’t really want to do it myself even though I did build my first K3).
>
> I am likely going to include the 2.7 filter.
>
> Other possible options are:
>
> Other filters
> General Rx
> Second Rx
> ???
>
>
> Thanks,
> Michael
> KK6RWK
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to [hidden email]

Elecraft mailing list

WTB Wanted K3S

In reply to this post by Don Sayler

I’m now looking for a K3S. Would prefer 100W with KAT3A antenna tuner however will consider all offers.

Let me know what you got!

73s
Michael
KK6RWK
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Don Wilhelm

Re: WTB Wanted K3S

Michael,

Elecraft has them, shipping off the shelf. You can select from the list
of options, and have your custom configured K3S with options configured,
built and tested, calibrated before shipment.
If you decide to order a kit, the boards will be pre-calibrated.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 5/12/2018 10:17 AM, Michael Gillen via Elecraft wrote:
> I’m now looking for a K3S. Would prefer 100W with KAT3A antenna tuner however will consider all offers.
>
> Let me know what you got!
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Elecraft mailing list

Re: K3S - Help me decide on which options to purchase

In reply to this post by Elecraft mailing list

Hi guys!

Received my K3S yesterday afternoon and was on the air in about an hour. Made three QSOs with my favorite Net, the OMISS 40m, so everything is working as expected. Tuned around the bands later and listened in on the ANZA DX net from Australia and also heard a guy from New Zealand both on 20m. Couldn’t stay up too late as I have work this AM but was very excited and could have been up a lot longer. Just love being back on the air!

Thanks Elecraft and this group for the support and info. Looking forward to many years behind the mic.

By the way, I opted for just a minimal configuration right now - the “Casual User” package with the "2.8 filter swap”. Its a K3S with the antenna tuner and 100w amp. Good enough for my current needs.

73s
Michael
KK6RWK