K3 data decode for dummies?

[Andrew Moore-3]

Okay, I've got to ask for help now... I'm a geek and been a computer junkie
since 1980 or so, but for the life of me I can't figure out how to get my K3
to decode data modes.  All these choices: AFSK A at 45 bps, FSK D at 45, PSK
D at 31, DATA A... and I feel like I've tried every permutation of mode,
filter width, VFO tuning, etc.. and still come up with gibberish on the
display.  How do I know if the signal is at 31 or 45 bps; which mode;
etc...  Can someone give me a quick "how to get up and running fast and
easy" tutorial?  I've successfully decoded data via a sound card on the PC
before, but the K3's getting the better of me here.  Just want to try it out
on receive... only do 40m CW here (100%), but since the capability is there,
I'd like to try it out.

Sorry for the newbie Q's

..
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[Don Wilhelm-4]

Andrew,

I know you are not going to like this answer - but "it all depends"...

It depends on what data you are trying to receive (and send).

PSK D will decode PSK31 and generate PSK31 from the Paddle input
characters or ASCII input from the computer (like K3Utility).
FSK D will decode RTTY and generate RTTY from the paddle input
characters or ASCII input from the computer.
These 2 selections would normally be used if one is operating with NO
computer connection and want to have a PSK31 or RTTY contact.

Now for soundcard generated data modes - if you are using RTTY, choose
the AFSK A mode and set the rate (and mark frequency) at whatever you
wish to use.  The computer application and the K3 settings should be the
same (if they are different, it will not work right).
The AFSK A data mode allows use of the 'dual passband' DSP filter, and
the K3 frequency displayed is the mark frequency.

For all other soundcard data modes (which can include RTTY), use DATA
A.  This is the "normal"data mode and is just like SSB except that the
compression is 1:1 and the TX EQ is set flat.  You will see the full
waterfall display in your software application and you can use the usual
'click on a signal' to copy or make a contact.

Just how the waterfall display looks and is responded to depends on the
particular data mode that you intend to use.  Google on your particular
mode of interest for more information.

73,
Don W3FPR

Andrew Moore wrote:

> Okay, I've got to ask for help now... I'm a geek and been a computer junkie
> since 1980 or so, but for the life of me I can't figure out how to get my K3
> to decode data modes.  All these choices: AFSK A at 45 bps, FSK D at 45, PSK
> D at 31, DATA A... and I feel like I've tried every permutation of mode,
> filter width, VFO tuning, etc.. and still come up with gibberish on the
> display.  How do I know if the signal is at 31 or 45 bps; which mode;
> etc...  Can someone give me a quick "how to get up and running fast and
> easy" tutorial?  I've successfully decoded data via a sound card on the PC
> before, but the K3's getting the better of me here.  Just want to try it out
> on receive... only do 40m CW here (100%), but since the capability is there,
> I'd like to try it out.
>
> Sorry for the newbie Q's
>
>  

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[Don Cunningham]

Andrew,
RTTY is the data mode I am most familiar with.  There are several schools of
thought.  My "old school" says set the rate to 45.5 baud and Mark at 2125,
shift at 170 IF you want to meet a friend on RTTY and tell him/her where you
will be.  Otherwise, I guess as some insist here, put Mark wherever you
like, shift at 170 cycles and tune on the station you wish to work.  We have
used the above standards for the 40 years I have been involved with RTTY,
and even used to have autostart frequencies with not so stable rigs and made
it work, hi.  RTTY is also LSB on an SSB rig unless you are using FSK or I
guess Data mode on the K3.  I have not tried RTTY on K3 yet, as my antenna
is down, being refurbed after being destroyed in the winter ice and the
tower is "in progress".  If you haven't figured it out when I get back on
the air, I'll meet you and we can go from there, hi.
73,
Don, WB5HAK

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[KK7P]

  Andrew,

For PSK31 try this:

1) Tune to 14.070 MHz in DATA:PSK D mode.

You should hear PSK31 activity.

2) Hold TEXT DECODE, use VFO A to set Thr 0, and VFO B to set ON.

3) Turn on CWT.

4) Narrow WIDTH to about 200 Hz.

5) Slowly tune until you hear a PSK signal and see activity on the CWT
indicator.  Use 10 Hz steps on the VFO.

6) Tap SPOT and the radio will autotune the signal. It may take one or
two more tries before it gets it right.

You should see text scroll across the display.

---

For RTTY:

1) tune around 14.076 to 14.090 until you hear an RTTY station in DATA
FSK D mode.

2) Turn TEXT DECODE on as above.

3) Turn on CWT.  You'll see two bars of activity, see the manual for
details.

4) Tune until both bars are wiggling to about the same width.

NOTE: There is no SPOT function in RTTY, yuo must manually tune and
you'll want 10 Hz steps on the VFO to do this.

You should see text scrolling across the screen.

This should get you receiving.  Se the manual for clarificaiotn or
further details.

73,

Lyle KK7P

> ...I've successfully decoded data via a sound card on the PC
> before, but the K3's getting the better of me here.  Just want to try it out
> on receive... only do 40m CW here (100%), but since the capability is there,
> I'd like to try it out.


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[Andrew Moore-3]

> For PSK31 try this:

Success.

> For RTTY:

Success (on 40 meters).

Thank you, this is exactly the sort of tutorial I needed.

..
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