Elecraft

K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

Classic

List

Threaded

13 messages Options

KD4NUE

K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a SignaLink
USB

Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was uber
easy. I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the additional
isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel for mixed mode
operation requirements.

However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance moving
it off the dummy load and on the air.

Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.

If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts building
again.

No power is generated until output level on the interface is high enough to
generate ALC action.

Not much chance of anything dependable here.... Where am I going wrong?

I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a reference
to decrease volume for a purer signal.

Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and share
the signal up and down the band.

I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the volume
level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary, maintaining a clean
signal throughout.

Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls down
and starts to build again. Around 30 to 45 seconds into a transmission, it
may stabilize.

I have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP, TS-2000,
IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000, Jupiter, IC-756
Pro, TS-870, TS-480.... And never experienced any instability of output
before.

Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897, FT-817, IC-756 Pro II,
TS-2000 and the K3. The other rigs provide a stable digital platform

When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.

I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run. The trend I
am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require a more
refined approach than what I am seeing so far.

I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some direction.

David
KD4NUE

______________________________________________________________
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

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

David,

Are you following the instructions in the K3 manual, or are you trying
to follow the "wisdom" supplied on the internet? The K3 is different
than the internet wisdom transceivers.

The fact that you say the output is not stable leads me to believe you
are trying to use the "internet wisdom" that tells you to set the power
to maximum and use the audio injection to control the power output.
That is a recipe for problems when using the K3 (K2 as well, but that is
not the question).

Refer to the K3 manual and adjust the audio drive to give 4 bars on the
ALC meter solid and the 5th bar flickering - you can do that in TX TEST
so you do not bother your ham neighbors.

Once you have done that, set the power knob to your desired power level
and all will be well.

The SignaLink may have to be set for Line Level output - it is plugged
for mic level by default. See the manufacturer's documentation to see
how to set it to line level output.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:

> Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a SignaLink
> USB
>
> Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was uber
> easy. I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the additional
> isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel for mixed mode
> operation requirements.
>
> However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance moving
> it off the dummy load and on the air.
>
> Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.
>
> If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts building
> again.
>
> No power is generated until output level on the interface is high enough to
> generate ALC action.
>
> Not much chance of anything dependable here.... Where am I going wrong?
>
> I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a reference
> to decrease volume for a purer signal.
>
> Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and share
> the signal up and down the band.
>
> I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the volume
> level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary, maintaining a clean
> signal throughout.
>
> Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls down
> and starts to build again. Around 30 to 45 seconds into a transmission, it
> may stabilize.
>
> I have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP, TS-2000,
> IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000, Jupiter, IC-756
> Pro, TS-870, TS-480.... And never experienced any instability of output
> before.
>
> Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897, FT-817, IC-756 Pro II,
> TS-2000 and the K3. The other rigs provide a stable digital platform
>
> When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
> transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.
>
> I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run. The trend I
> am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require a more
> refined approach than what I am seeing so far.
>
> I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some direction.
>
> David
> KD4NUE
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>

______________________________________________________________
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

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by KD4NUE

David.

I would like to point out that the K3 "ALC" indicator is also a level
indicator. The onset of ALC begins at the 5ht bar, and bars 1 through 4
do not indicate any ALC action at all. They are more like a VU meter
provided to allow you some metering to help you adjust the audio level.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:

KD4NUE

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by Don Wilhelm-4

Don,

Thanks for the info.

I will give it a try, and will find out soon enough if the 4 bars of ALC
activity is trashing the signal quality, as anticipated.

>From the other brands I have used and am currently using, the K3 seems to be
the only one that uses this approach, so I am not sure if I understand your
reference to internet wisdom...

Does the K3 use some other kind of output processing, and just hang an ALC
label on it?

No problem on driving the SignaLink; I can match them to the other gear,
using jumpers or resistors, as well as matching in the software input
config.

Please don't tell me this is the same approach that Microsoft uses when
contemplating changing a light bulb; defining darkness as the new
standard.... :)

David
KD4NUE

-----Original Message-----
From: Don Wilhelm [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Friday, October 12, 2012 10:46 PM
To: [hidden email]
Cc: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

David,

Are you following the instructions in the K3 manual, or are you trying
to follow the "wisdom" supplied on the internet? The K3 is different
than the internet wisdom transceivers.

The fact that you say the output is not stable leads me to believe you
are trying to use the "internet wisdom" that tells you to set the power
to maximum and use the audio injection to control the power output.
That is a recipe for problems when using the K3 (K2 as well, but that is
not the question).

Refer to the K3 manual and adjust the audio drive to give 4 bars on the
ALC meter solid and the 5th bar flickering - you can do that in TX TEST
so you do not bother your ham neighbors.

Once you have done that, set the power knob to your desired power level
and all will be well.

The SignaLink may have to be set for Line Level output - it is plugged
for mic level by default. See the manufacturer's documentation to see
how to set it to line level output.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:

> Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a
> SignaLink USB
>
> Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was
> uber easy. I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the
> additional isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel
> for mixed mode operation requirements.
>
> However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance
> moving it off the dummy load and on the air.
>
> Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.
>
> If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts
> building again.
>
> No power is generated until output level on the interface is high
> enough to generate ALC action.
>
> Not much chance of anything dependable here.... Where am I going
> wrong?
>
> I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a
> reference to decrease volume for a purer signal.
>
> Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and
> share the signal up and down the band.
>
> I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the
> volume level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary,
> maintaining a clean signal throughout.
>
> Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls
> down and starts to build again. Around 30 to 45 seconds into a
> transmission, it may stabilize.
>
> I have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP,
> TS-2000, IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000,
> Jupiter, IC-756 Pro, TS-870, TS-480.... And never experienced any
> instability of output before.
>
> Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897, FT-817, IC-756 Pro
> II, TS-2000 and the K3. The other rigs provide a stable digital
> platform
>
> When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
> transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.
>
> I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run. The trend

> am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require
> a more refined approach than what I am seeing so far.
>
> I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some
> direction.
>
> David
> KD4NUE
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>

KD4NUE

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by Don Wilhelm-4

Don,

That puts things into a better perspective.

With that in mind, it does mimic normal ALC operation.

I don't quite know how to interpret the instability in output while it is
measuring volume units, before it switches to ALC and stabilizes.

-----Original Message-----
From: Don Wilhelm [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Friday, October 12, 2012 11:01 PM
To: [hidden email]
Cc: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

David.

I would like to point out that the K3 "ALC" indicator is also a level
indicator. The onset of ALC begins at the 5ht bar, and bars 1 through 4
do not indicate any ALC action at all. They are more like a VU meter
provided to allow you some metering to help you adjust the audio level.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:

Greg - AB7R

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by KD4NUE

Absolutely. The K3 Alc is integral to its power regulation and needs to be
set for 4 bars of ALC with the fifth bar flickering. This is also
explained in the K3 operating tips.

73
Greg
AB7R
On Oct 12, 2012 8:13 PM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:
______________________________________________________________
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

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by KD4NUE

David,

The "magic" in your question has to do with the way the K3 (and the K2
if there are any listeners) control the power output. It has little to
do with ALC, but has much to do with the amount of detected RF at the
output. The K3 (K2) compares the measured RF output with the requested
power and adjusts the drive level to try to make them equal. This is a
closed loop control system.

Most other transceivers simply adjust the drive level without measuring
the actual output, so the conventional wisdom works for those
transceivers which use this open loop system. Elecraft is different and
does not respond well to the "conventional wisdom".

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 11:10 PM, David Little wrote:

> Don,
>
> That puts things into a better perspective.
>
> With that in mind, it does mimic normal ALC operation.
>
> I don't quite know how to interpret the instability in output while it is
> measuring volume units, before it switches to ALC and stabilizes.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Don Wilhelm [mailto:[hidden email]]
> Sent: Friday, October 12, 2012 11:01 PM
> To: [hidden email]
> Cc: [hidden email]
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB
>
>
> David.
>
> I would like to point out that the K3 "ALC" indicator is also a level
> indicator. The onset of ALC begins at the 5ht bar, and bars 1 through 4
> do not indicate any ALC action at all. They are more like a VU meter
> provided to allow you some metering to help you adjust the audio level.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:
>> Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a
>> SignaLink USB
>>
>> Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was
>> uber easy. I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the
>> additional isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel
>> for mixed mode operation requirements.
>>
>> However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance
>> moving it off the dummy load and on the air.
>>
>> Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.
>>
>> If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts
>> building again.
>>
>> No power is generated until output level on the interface is high
>> enough to generate ALC action.
>>
>> Not much chance of anything dependable here.... Where am I going
>> wrong?
>>
>> I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a
>> reference to decrease volume for a purer signal.
>>
>> Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and
>> share the signal up and down the band.
>>
>> I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the
>> volume level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary,
>> maintaining a clean signal throughout.
>>
>> Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls
>> down and starts to build again. Around 30 to 45 seconds into a
>> transmission, it may stabilize.
>>
>> I have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP,
>> TS-2000, IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000,
>> Jupiter, IC-756 Pro, TS-870, TS-480.... And never experienced any
>> instability of output before.
>>
>> Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897, FT-817, IC-756 Pro
>> II, TS-2000 and the K3. The other rigs provide a stable digital
>> platform
>>
>> When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
>> transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.
>>
>> I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run. The trend
> I
>> am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require
>> a more refined approach than what I am seeing so far.
>>
>> I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some
>> direction.
>>
>> David
>> KD4NUE
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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
>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by Greg - AB7R

Greg,

I would like this to be set into the manual that the K3 is different
than the conventional wisdom given on the internet. The instructions in
the K3 manual for data modes is to be followed if the expected levels
and power settings ae to be obtained.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 11:20 PM, Greg wrote:
> Absolutely. The K3 Alc is integral to its power regulation and needs to be
> set for 4 bars of ALC with the fifth bar flickering. This is also
> explained in the K3 operating tips.
>
> 73
> Greg
> AB7R
>

______________________________________________________________
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

Greg - AB7R

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

I agree...this comes up too often and is vital to the proper operation of
data modes.
On Oct 12, 2012 8:32 PM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Greg,
>
> I would like this to be set into the manual that the K3 is different than
> the conventional wisdom given on the internet. The instructions in the K3
> manual for data modes is to be followed if the expected levels and power
> settings ae to be obtained.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 10/12/2012 11:20 PM, Greg wrote:
>
>> Absolutely. The K3 Alc is integral to its power regulation and needs to
>> be
>> set for 4 bars of ALC with the fifth bar flickering. This is also
>> explained in the K3 operating tips.
>>
>> 73
>> Greg
>> AB7R
>>
>>
>

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

Greg,

You are absolutely correct, but other than a general post to the
Elecraft reflector, I do not know how to reach the many K2/K3 users who
do not monitor this reflector and want to try out data modes. The
information that the "K2/K3 is different" does not seem to appear in the
lists of data mode Google searches.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 11:34 PM, Greg wrote:

> I agree...this comes up too often and is vital to the proper operation of
> data modes.
> On Oct 12, 2012 8:32 PM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Greg,
>>
>> I would like this to be set into the manual that the K3 is different than
>> the conventional wisdom given on the internet. The instructions in the K3
>> manual for data modes is to be followed if the expected levels and power
>> settings ae to be obtained.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>>
>> On 10/12/2012 11:20 PM, Greg wrote:
>>
>>> Absolutely. The K3 Alc is integral to its power regulation and needs to
>>> be
>>> set for 4 bars of ALC with the fifth bar flickering. This is also
>>> explained in the K3 operating tips.
>>>
>>> 73
>>> Greg
>>> AB7R
>>>
>>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>

N5GE-2

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by Don Wilhelm-4

Don speaks with knowledge.

I have my SignaLink setup exactly as he describes, which is exactly
the way the manual instructs you to set up for sound card operation.

Amateur Radio Operator N5GE
ARRL Lifetime Member
QCWA Lifetime Member

On Fri, 12 Oct 2012 23:00:59 -0400, Don Wilhelm
<[hidden email]> wrote:

>David.
>
>I would like to point out that the K3 "ALC" indicator is also a level
>indicator. The onset of ALC begins at the 5ht bar, and bars 1 through 4
>do not indicate any ALC action at all. They are more like a VU meter
>provided to allow you some metering to help you adjust the audio level.
>
>73,
>Don W3FPR
>
>On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:
>> Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a SignaLink
>> USB
>>
>> Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was uber
>> easy. I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the additional
>> isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel for mixed mode
>> operation requirements.
>>
>> However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance moving
>> it off the dummy load and on the air.
>>
>> Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.
>>
>> If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts building
>> again.
>>
>> No power is generated until output level on the interface is high enough to
>> generate ALC action.
>>
>> Not much chance of anything dependable here.... Where am I going wrong?
>>
>> I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a reference
>> to decrease volume for a purer signal.
>>
>> Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and share
>> the signal up and down the band.
>>
>> I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the volume
>> level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary, maintaining a clean
>> signal throughout.
>>
>> Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls down
>> and starts to build again. Around 30 to 45 seconds into a transmission, it
>> may stabilize.
>>
>> I have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP, TS-2000,
>> IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000, Jupiter, IC-756
>> Pro, TS-870, TS-480.... And never experienced any instability of output
>> before.
>>
>> Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897, FT-817, IC-756 Pro II,
>> TS-2000 and the K3. The other rigs provide a stable digital platform
>>
>> When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
>> transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.
>>
>> I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run. The trend I
>> am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require a more
>> refined approach than what I am seeing so far.
>>
>> I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some direction.
>>
>> David
>> KD4NUE
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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
>>
>
>______________________________________________________________
>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

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by KD4NUE

David,

I do not have "inside information: about the K3 processing, but I do
know for certain that the first 4 bars of he ALC bargraph do not
indicate ALC action - the onset of ALC is at the 5th bar and the bars
below that indicate audio level and that is all.

Yes, the K3 is different than most other transceivers - it measures the
output power and compares that level to what is requested by the power
knob and adjusts the drive accordingly. So set the audio level
correctly and then set the power level to what you really want - then
operate.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 11:08 PM, David Little wrote:

> Don,
>
> Thanks for the info.
>
> I will give it a try, and will find out soon enough if the 4 bars of ALC
> activity is trashing the signal quality, as anticipated.
>
> >From the other brands I have used and am currently using, the K3 seems to be
> the only one that uses this approach, so I am not sure if I understand your
> reference to internet wisdom...
>
> Does the K3 use some other kind of output processing, and just hang an ALC
> label on it?
>
> No problem on driving the SignaLink; I can match them to the other gear,
> using jumpers or resistors, as well as matching in the software input
> config.
>
> Please don't tell me this is the same approach that Microsoft uses when
> contemplating changing a light bulb; defining darkness as the new
> standard.... :)
>
> David
> KD4NUE
>
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Don Wilhelm [mailto:[hidden email]]
> Sent: Friday, October 12, 2012 10:46 PM
> To: [hidden email]
> Cc: [hidden email]
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB
>
>
> David,
>
> Are you following the instructions in the K3 manual, or are you trying
> to follow the "wisdom" supplied on the internet? The K3 is different
> than the internet wisdom transceivers.
>
> The fact that you say the output is not stable leads me to believe you
> are trying to use the "internet wisdom" that tells you to set the power
> to maximum and use the audio injection to control the power output.
> That is a recipe for problems when using the K3 (K2 as well, but that is
> not the question).
>
> Refer to the K3 manual and adjust the audio drive to give 4 bars on the
> ALC meter solid and the 5th bar flickering - you can do that in TX TEST
> so you do not bother your ham neighbors.
>
> Once you have done that, set the power knob to your desired power level
> and all will be well.
>
> The SignaLink may have to be set for Line Level output - it is plugged
> for mic level by default. See the manufacturer's documentation to see
> how to set it to line level output.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
>
> On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:
>> Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a
>> SignaLink USB
>>
>> Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was
>> uber easy. I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the
>> additional isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel
>> for mixed mode operation requirements.
>>
>> However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance
>> moving it off the dummy load and on the air.
>>
>> Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.
>>
>> If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts
>> building again.
>>
>> No power is generated until output level on the interface is high
>> enough to generate ALC action.
>>
>> Not much chance of anything dependable here.... Where am I going
>> wrong?
>>
>> I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a
>> reference to decrease volume for a purer signal.
>>
>> Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and
>> share the signal up and down the band.
>>
>> I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the
>> volume level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary,
>> maintaining a clean signal throughout.
>>
>> Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls
>> down and starts to build again. Around 30 to 45 seconds into a
>> transmission, it may stabilize.
>>
>> I have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP,
>> TS-2000, IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000,
>> Jupiter, IC-756 Pro, TS-870, TS-480.... And never experienced any
>> instability of output before.
>>
>> Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897, FT-817, IC-756 Pro
>> II, TS-2000 and the K3. The other rigs provide a stable digital
>> platform
>>
>> When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
>> transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.
>>
>> I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run. The trend
> I
>> am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require
>> a more refined approach than what I am seeing so far.
>>
>> I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some
>> direction.
>>
>> David
>> KD4NUE
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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
>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

In reply to this post by N5GE-2

One thing that I failed to point out is that if the audio drive is not
set properly, the K3 will "power hunt" and you will find the SSB or data
modes power to be unpredictable. Use the instructions in he K3 manual
for data modes and the problems will go away.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 11:58 PM, N5GE wrote:

>
>
>
> Don speaks with knowledge.
>
> I have my SignaLink setup exactly as he describes, which is exactly
> the way the manual instructs you to set up for sound card operation.
>
> Amateur Radio Operator N5GE
> ARRL Lifetime Member
> QCWA Lifetime Member
>
> On Fri, 12 Oct 2012 23:00:59 -0400, Don Wilhelm
> <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> David.
>>
>> I would like to point out that the K3 "ALC" indicator is also a level
>> indicator. The onset of ALC begins at the 5ht bar, and bars 1 through 4
>> do not indicate any ALC action at all. They are more like a VU meter
>> provided to allow you some metering to help you adjust the audio level.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>>
>> On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:
>>> Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a SignaLink
>>> USB
>>>
>>> Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was uber
>>> easy. I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the additional
>>> isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel for mixed mode
>>> operation requirements.
>>>
>>> However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance moving
>>> it off the dummy load and on the air.
>>>
>>> Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.
>>>
>>> If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts building
>>> again.
>>>
>>> No power is generated until output level on the interface is high enough to
>>> generate ALC action.
>>>
>>> Not much chance of anything dependable here.... Where am I going wrong?
>>>
>>> I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a reference
>>> to decrease volume for a purer signal.
>>>
>>> Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and share
>>> the signal up and down the band.
>>>
>>> I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the volume
>>> level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary, maintaining a clean
>>> signal throughout.
>>>
>>> Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls down
>>> and starts to build again. Around 30 to 45 seconds into a transmission, it
>>> may stabilize.
>>>
>>> I have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP, TS-2000,
>>> IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000, Jupiter, IC-756
>>> Pro, TS-870, TS-480.... And never experienced any instability of output
>>> before.
>>>
>>> Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897, FT-817, IC-756 Pro II,
>>> TS-2000 and the K3. The other rigs provide a stable digital platform
>>>
>>> When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
>>> transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.
>>>
>>> I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run. The trend I
>>> am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require a more
>>> refined approach than what I am seeing so far.
>>>
>>> I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some direction.
>>>
>>> David
>>> KD4NUE
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>> 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
>>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>