WA5ZZT wrote
Thanks. I just started looking at them seriously. I am in Dallas and Hamcom is next Friday so I thought I would take a look at them again. I was thinking about getting the 100watt kit and then adding to it later. Is that a good way to go or is it hard to add modules after it's built?
From what I've seen, it is a snap to add modules. In fact, the XYL pinched my pocketbook when I was getting ready to order and I had to cut the KBPF3 (General Coverage band pass filter module) and the associated 6KHz crystal filter from my list. As I built the rig, I saw how easy it'll be to add those two items when dollars are a tad more available. In the case of these two items, it simply requires taking out a few small screws holding the top cover in place, plugging in the KBPF3, removing the front half of the bottom cover and inserting the new crystal filter & retaining screw. Bolt the covers back on, run the K3 Utility software and let the K3 know about the new stuff just installed.
My build of the K3 included the KAT3 internal antenna tuner, the 100-watt amp, and two additional crystal filters. Those were the the only options I went for on this go-round.
I sold off a K2 and an Icom 756 Pro III to get this rig, and so far I'm quite impressed. Now, if the sun would cooperate and get spotty, I'd really be happy. Today's conditions on 20 meters in north central California are pathetic - almost ZERO signals heard. Last night I was running only 30w into a crummy Buddistick and I worked KH6AT over in Hilo, HI on 40 CW - my first K3 QSO. (And Bryce was also running a K3)
73, Jim / W6JHB
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