Is the K3 for non-contesters?
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Is the K3 for non-contesters?
 
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Hi Everyone, With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.) The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!) I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable. I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time. I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your comments. Thanks and 73 to all... Steve Banks K0PQ _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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: Is the K3 for non-contesters?
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STEPHEN W BANKS wrote:
> Hi Everyone, > > With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess? > > Thanks and 73 to all... > > Steve Banks > K0PQ > I'm a really want to be an owner when the piggy bank allows prospect with no contesting interest, at least to this point. I just want it because it's the best radio available. I'll probably get the piggy bank ready just about in time to order a K5. -- 73 K5LDB ---------- Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like. _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
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Hash: SHA1 My personal preference is to buy the best receiver you can afford no matter what your operating preference is. The K3 is it. Ducie island is going to be a good test of the K3. - -- R. Kevin Stover, ACØH -----BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE----- Version: GnuPG v1.4.7 (MingW32) Comment: Using GnuPG with Mozilla - http://enigmail.mozdev.org iD8DBQFHpKOk11jxjloa2wsRAgNKAKCEyhPsOJCRj7xez4S84kE2vOW+egCg4MN4 HyYGfFmQvJDD2HS09OEsluE= =WrSA -----END PGP SIGNATURE----- _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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: Is the K3 for non-contesters?
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
I have only used it in RX since it arrived - it is a great receiver, a
pleasure to use. ----- Original Message ----- From: "STEPHEN W BANKS" <[hidden email]> > I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are > as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to > contesters. _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Steve,
I will be using the K3 for pretty much only CW and SWL. Perhaps a little PSK. I like some small CW contests, but am not a contester by any means. I'll be sticking with the 10 watt version; my K2 has shown that that is sufficient power for me. Will also only have a very basic filter set. I did order the ATU; the K2 spoiled me with that. My antennas are endfed wire and attic dipoles. Too much rig for my limited needs? Maybe, but I'm pretty sure I'll get my money's worth in enjoyment. 73, Drew AF2Z On Sat, 02 Feb 2008 09:59:00 -0700, you wrote: > >Hi Everyone, > >With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.) > >The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!) > >I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable. > >I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time. > >I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your comments. > >Thanks and 73 to all... > >Steve Banks >K0PQ _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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: Is the K3 for non-contesters?
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K3 will be used for mostly HF cw contacts. and primarily for 6 meter dxing.
and possibley 2 meters Weak signal work. 73 de Wp4o, Ed, Tampa, FL EL 87 ----- Original Message ----- From: <[hidden email]> To: <[hidden email]> Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 12:50 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters? > Steve, > > I will be using the K3 for pretty much only CW and SWL. Perhaps a > little PSK. > > I like some small CW contests, but am not a contester by any means. > > I'll be sticking with the 10 watt version; my K2 has shown that that > is sufficient power for me. Will also only have a very basic filter > set. > > I did order the ATU; the K2 spoiled me with that. My antennas are > endfed wire and attic dipoles. > > Too much rig for my limited needs? Maybe, but I'm pretty sure I'll get > my money's worth in enjoyment. > > 73, > Drew > AF2Z > > > On Sat, 02 Feb 2008 09:59:00 -0700, you wrote: > >> >>Hi Everyone, >> >>With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are >>there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or >>prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special >>need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular >>topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.) >> >>The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware >>updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its >>other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary >>customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling >>points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!) >> >>I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all >>excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very >>enjoyable. >> >>I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are >>as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to >>contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my >>code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time. >> >>I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal >>preference, but I'd enjoy your comments. >> >>Thanks and 73 to all... >> >>Steve Banks >>K0PQ > > _______________________________________________ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: [hidden email] > 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: [hidden email] 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 |
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Steve,
Speaking for myself, as a 'mostly' non-contestor, I certainly believe that a K3 can be fully utilized and enjoyed by the general, but discriminating, operator. I have only had mine running for less than a week now, but I marvel at it every time I turn it on. My usage is mainly CW, but I do a little SSB (haven't tried it yet), and may explore keybordless data later. You will love it. 72, Neal WA6OCP K3/10/305
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
STEPHEN W BANKS wrote:
>I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are >as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to contesters. Steve, I probably am the biggest "putz" operator/owner of a K3 there is. I am not into contest or DX'ing. I do enjoy PSK 31. I'm turning 55 this week, and have been in the hobby since I was 13. I can't explain it, but the K3, well, it's just "the" radio. It is an absolute joy just to tool around and listen with. I have actual heard three different qso's where the folks where talking about the K3. So of course I had to break in. That will take over a 30 minutes to answer questions. I also think this radio is going to be going strong 15-20 years from now. We can look at rigs like the TS-520 and SB-101 and state that they still work well after 30 years, but they don't perform like the K3. At the same time, a lot of us had a lot of fun with those tube type rigs. I remember buying a used SB-303/401, that wasn't working. I fixed it, and had that rig for a long time. It was a lot of fun. And to me, that is what the K3 gives you, for whatever unexplainable reason, is just fun to have in the shack. Don't worry about the fact that you are not a contester, just have fun with it. Another side note to this Elecraft/K3 thing is, the response from Elecraft. Firmware changes, that other manufactures would have to come with a new Model suffix with, (K3-MKII-G?), well Aptos kicks them out weekly. Someone asks for change "X", which will only affect maybe 1 out ten operators, will be implemented. Then you have Simon, in the hills of Switzerland, writing code for HRD, which while it will works with 100+ rigs, will work exceptionally well for the K3, because Simon has one. It's fun. Go ahead and simply enjoy one of the most elegant and practical radios out there. tom k8tb (getting really close to ordering a second K3, for the remote base) _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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: Is the K3 for non-contesters?
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Steve, the reason there is so much talk about the K3
and contests is because contesting is a big test of a receiver with the need to operate with very strong signals at nearby frequencies and lots of QRM. Not all radios can stand up to this kind of test, but the K3 is reportedly the best there is. (I don't have first hand knowledge because I am waiting for delivery.) Having a super good receiver will make the K3 all the better for casual rag chewing or any other type of operation that pleases you. Good luck with your type of operation. Cookie, K5EWJ, Contester and casual operator --- STEPHEN W BANKS <[hidden email]> wrote: > > Hi Everyone, > > With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about > a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like > me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective > owners, who just like hamming in general and have no > special need for the K3's contesting prowess? > (Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3 > owners on the reflector.) > > The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and > finish, and firmware updating capabilities are > certainly appealing to me as are many of its other > capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's > legendary customer service and its reputation for > excellence are also big selling points for me. > (Maybe I've answered my own question!) > > I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s > and a KX1 that are all excellent performers. > Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable. > > I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities > and performance are as appealing to others like me > (non-contesters) as they obviously are to > contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been > trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent > 20-25wpm for a long time. > > I realize that my question emerges from the slippery > realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your > comments. > > Thanks and 73 to all... > > Steve Banks > K0PQ > _______________________________________________ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: [hidden email] > 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: [hidden email] 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: Is the K3 for non-contesters?
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I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get the
best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from non-contest types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting it should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it in nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in. Just an opinion of course. Mike/aj9c _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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With an Elecraft radio, you can do some surprising things.
In a contest, I can operate close to high power stations that have a clean signal, yet sometimes they can't handle having even my 5w K2 close by their receive frequency. That's the beauty of a great receiver. The K3 appears to be even better. Good luck and 73 Bob N6WG ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mike Kasrich" <[hidden email]> Cc: "Elecraft" <[hidden email]> Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:06 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters? > I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get the > best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from non-contest > types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting it > should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it in > nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in. > > Just an opinion of course. > > Mike/aj9c > > _______________________________________________ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: [hidden email] > 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: [hidden email] 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 |
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So, I think I hear a warning...It may soon be that we'll have wall to wall
K3's up and down the band during contests, and we'll need a K3 just to squeeze in and be able ignore the neighbors <grin>. Rich NU6T -----Original Message----- From: [hidden email] [mailto:[hidden email]]On Behalf Of Robert Tellefsen Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:33 AM To: Mike Kasrich Cc: Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters? With an Elecraft radio, you can do some surprising things. In a contest, I can operate close to high power stations that have a clean signal, yet sometimes they can't handle having even my 5w K2 close by their receive frequency. That's the beauty of a great receiver. The K3 appears to be even better. Good luck and 73 Bob N6WG ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mike Kasrich" <[hidden email]> Cc: "Elecraft" <[hidden email]> Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:06 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters? > I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get the > best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from non-contest > types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting it > should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it in > nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in. > > Just an opinion of course. > > Mike/aj9c > > _______________________________________________ > Elecraft mailing list > Post to: [hidden email] > 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: [hidden email] 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: [hidden email] 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 |
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Right on. QRP to the front.
Watch the elbows, I'm coming through. Good luck and 73 Bob N6WG The Little Station with Attitude ----- Original Message ----- From: "Richard HIll" <[hidden email]> To: "Robert Tellefsen" <[hidden email]>; "Mike Kasrich" <[hidden email]> Cc: "Elecraft" <[hidden email]> Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 12:45 PM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters? > So, I think I hear a warning...It may soon be that we'll have wall to wall > K3's up and down the band during contests, and we'll need a K3 just to > squeeze in and be able ignore the neighbors <grin>. > > Rich > NU6T > > -----Original Message----- > From: [hidden email] > [mailto:[hidden email]]On Behalf Of Robert Tellefsen > Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:33 AM > To: Mike Kasrich > Cc: Elecraft > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters? > > > With an Elecraft radio, you can do some surprising things. > In a contest, I can operate close to high power stations that > have a clean signal, yet sometimes they can't handle having > even my 5w K2 close by their receive frequency. That's > the beauty of a great receiver. The K3 appears to be even > better. > Good luck and 73 > Bob N6WG > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Mike Kasrich" <[hidden email]> > Cc: "Elecraft" <[hidden email]> > Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:06 AM > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters? > > > > I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get > > best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from non-contest > > types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting > it > > should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it > in > > nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in. > > > > Just an opinion of course. > > > > Mike/aj9c > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Elecraft mailing list > > Post to: [hidden email] > > 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: [hidden email] > 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: [hidden email] 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 |
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In reply to this post by STEPHEN W BANKS
On Sat, 2 Feb. 2008 09:59:00 -0700, Steve Banks wrote:
> >Hi Everyone, > >With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.) > >The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!) > >I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable. > >I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time. > >I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your comments. > >Thanks and 73 to all... > >Steve Banks >K0PQ I'm also a casual operator, but I do try to make a few contacts during CW contests. The K3 appeals to me because of the good comments and specs regarding it's CW performance. Two other options are responsible for my order made in late Oct. 2007; The Sub RX and The XVTR module. I've always been disappointed in the sub RX performance of the rigs I've owned since I got my Drake TR7/R7 in 1978 (still have them). I also have become very interested in VHF/UHF operating and have built an XV144 which is in use with my Orion II. If the XV144 works as well with the K3 I will probably add an XV432 to the VHF/UHF equipment here. I too ordered a fully loaded K3, on October 21st. As Buddy Holly said in his song, "Every day it's a gettin' closer. Goin' faster than a roller coaster...." 'A new K3 will surely come my way.'. Yes I have officially reached OF status ;o) . Tom, N5GE - SWOT 3537 - Grid EM12jq They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like. http://www.n5ge.com http://www.eQSL.cc/Member.cfm?N5GE _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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
Amateur Radio Operator N5GE
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Hello Group,
I notice that battery technology has been improving. The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say US$10. Therefore, my question is "Is it possible to modify the K2 to deliver a RF output of something around 20-25W?" It is ok to have my K2 operating at 12-15 watts. With a bit of more power say 25 watts, I can be heard more easily. Of course, I know all the arguments of better antennas etc etc. I don't need a KPA/100 because I have already had a K3. I know there are some competent RF engineers here. Can somebody enlighten me? 73 Johnny Siu VR2XMC 出差或去旅遊時，你可以隨時隨地用全新的Yahoo! Messenger 網上版同朋友即時通訊及查詢對話訊息紀錄!立即前往 http://hk.web.im _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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Johnny,
The difference in real signal strength for a receiving station if you were to go from 15 watts to 20-25 watts is about zilch. Going from 15 watts to 60 watts is approximately 1 S-Unit. I wouldn't bother going there, besides the changes are more work than it is worth. It may be a better option to order the KPA-100 and increase power to 100 watts which is 10 db, closer to 2 S units. Or, in the alternative, focus on the antenna which is the least expensive alternative, esp. if you are into wires like so many of us are. Then, of course, one could try one of the more exotic, expensive verticals with lots of ground wires, then 1 watt would accomplish alot. 72, Bill K9YEQ K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc. -----Original Message----- I notice that battery technology has been improving. The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say US$10. Therefore, my question is "Is it possible to modify the K2 to deliver a RF output of something around 20-25W?" _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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Hi Bill,
Thanks for your reply. The usual answer to my own question is going for a better antenna and I think most of the readers will know that. Through years of hamming, there are indeed marginial situations where a mariginal power difference does mean something. With an original built-in lead acid battery of capacity 2.9Ahr, 12-15 watt output from K2 is no doubt a very good compromise between power output and current consumption. The elecraft designers did make a good design compromise. Now that 3.5Ahr battery is just so easily available at only US$10 or less that it is a real attraction to ask for a managable higher output level. >From monetary terms, if K2 can be modified to deliver 25 watts at say US$50, it would be worthwhile to go for it. It is really no point for me to go for K2/100 because I can simply use my K3 which can deliver 100 watts. 25 watt output from K2 can drive most of the linear amplifiers to 1KW. My K2 can now only drive my ICPW-1 or Yaesu Quadra to only 300-350 watts. >From marketing point of view, if our QRP K2 can some how manage to deliver 25 watts, the usefulness of the rig will be further enhanced and hence marketability. In other words, a 25 watts K2 could mean: a. an capable QRP rig as it is; b. with good power output to suit most situations; c. a rig can drive most of the linear amplifiers to full output without any intermediate cheers, Johnny VR2XMC K3 + builder of more than 10 x K2 --- Bill Johnson <[hidden email]> 說： > Johnny, > > The difference in real signal strength for a > receiving station if you were > to go from 15 watts to 20-25 watts is about zilch. > Going from 15 watts to > 60 watts is approximately 1 S-Unit. I wouldn't > bother going there, besides > the changes are more work than it is worth. It may > be a better option to > order the KPA-100 and increase power to 100 watts > which is 10 db, closer to > 2 S units. Or, in the alternative, focus on the > antenna which is the least > expensive alternative, esp. if you are into wires > like so many of us are. > Then, of course, one could try one of the more > exotic, expensive verticals > with lots of ground wires, then 1 watt would > accomplish alot. > > > 72, > > Bill > > K9YEQ > K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc. > > > -----Original Message----- > > I notice that battery technology has been improving. > > The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be > replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr > instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can > be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say > US$10. > > Therefore, my question is "Is it possible to modify > the K2 to deliver a RF output of something around > 20-25W?" > > > 出差或去旅遊時，你可以隨時隨地用全新的Yahoo! Messenger 網上版同朋友即時通訊及查詢對話訊息紀錄!立即前往 http://hk.web.im _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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Hi Johnny ... I think you are missing a key concept about the battery rating. The amp hour rating defines how much energy is contained in the battery - not its voltage. To get more power out of the K2, you would need to raise the battery voltage. Even if you did so, the K2 is not designed to operate at over 15V. Don't go there!! And, as others have pointed out, 25W would not be much more effective than its present 15W. All the extra amp hours of the new battery will get you is extended battery life at the present 15W power level. This can be a good thing if you are operating portable, but will not increase the power level of the transmitter. 73 ... Craig AC0DS _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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Hello Craig,
Thanks for reply. Yes, ampere hour represents the battery capacity and means longer operation hour for K2. On the other hand, K3 is also operating on 12-13.8v but delivery full 100 watts. I agree with you that 15 w is a very good compromise between power output and current consumption. With the advancement of battery technology, it is now a real attraction to let the portable rig to deliver more output whenever necessary. I would like to use my K2 for portable operation rather than my K3 because its standy current is merely 200mA. If the design team of Elecraft can modify the maximum power output to 25 w, K2 would be even marketable (means more sale and profit to Elecraft) because: 1. best specifications among portable QRP radios; 2. lower standby current among portable QRP radios; 3. highest maximum output power among portable QRP radios While I am thinking of 25 watt output, it does not mean that I shall operate the K2 at that level all the time. It will just give us the flexibility for more power if we need it. With such trend of advancement in battery technology, there will be a day when we can even get a 4AH battery easily and cheaply. I am interested in learning the group's view and this mail reflector is a real good discussion group. cheers, Johnny VR2XMC --- "Craig D. Smith" <[hidden email]> 說： > > Hi Johnny ... > > I think you are missing a key concept about the > battery rating. The amp > hour rating defines how much energy is contained in > the battery - not its > voltage. To get more power out of the K2, you would > need to raise the > battery voltage. Even if you did so, the K2 is not > designed to operate at > over 15V. Don't go there!! And, as others have > pointed out, 25W would not > be much more effective than its present 15W. All > the extra amp hours of the > new battery will get you is extended battery life at > the present 15W power > level. This can be a good thing if you are > operating portable, but will not > increase the power level of the transmitter. > > 73 > 出差或去旅遊時，你可以隨時隨地用全新的Yahoo! Messenger 網上版同朋友即時通訊及查詢對話訊息紀錄!立即前往 http://hk.web.im _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [hidden email] 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 |
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