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K3 transmit audio cuts out

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Keith Heimbold

K3 transmit audio cuts out

While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an issue with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power output simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.

I currently use a Heil proset 4 and a heil hand switch with that rig. I then decided to switched headsets and switch to my heil proset 5 and my foot switch which is on my other K3 to determine if it was an issue with headset / PTT switch combination. Upon transmitting it continued to cut out the audio and power. I was alerted by the ham I was communicating with that I was having an issue with my audio. This issue continued to persist so I decided to shutdown the system.

My configuration last night also consisted of this K3 unit being connected to my Yaesu Quadra amplifier to my SteppIR three element Yagi. I was operating at about 500W.

This is the first time I have had any issue with this K3 unit though I do experience some unusual receive issues with spurious and higher noise levels with this unit versus my other K3 and my KX3.

Turns out that I am coincidentally sending up my other K3 1526 to Elecraft today for several mods and some additional features to be added. I would like to get the older 1391 unit working before sending 1526 up north.

Any thoughts on what might be happening or troubleshooting options would be great.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Keith

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
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Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Kieth,

In cases like that, the first things to check are the external cables -
in your particular case, the PTT.
If you are using the mic jack PTT, try the one on the back panel - if
that cures the problem check your cables again.

The other possibility is that something happened in your antenna system
and you are experiencing RF feedback. Run the K3 barefoot into a dummy
load - if the condition persists into a dummy load, then you can
conclude that the K3 might be to blame.

73,
Don W3FPR
On 7/27/2012 8:36 AM, Keith Heimbold wrote:

> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an issue with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power output simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>
> I currently use a Heil proset 4 and a heil hand switch with that rig. I then decided to switched headsets and switch to my heil proset 5 and my foot switch which is on my other K3 to determine if it was an issue with headset / PTT switch combination. Upon transmitting it continued to cut out the audio and power. I was alerted by the ham I was communicating with that I was having an issue with my audio. This issue continued to persist so I decided to shutdown the system.
>
> My configuration last night also consisted of this K3 unit being connected to my Yaesu Quadra amplifier to my SteppIR three element Yagi. I was operating at about 500W.
>
> This is the first time I have had any issue with this K3 unit though I do experience some unusual receive issues with spurious and higher noise levels with this unit versus my other K3 and my KX3.
>
> Turns out that I am coincidentally sending up my other K3 1526 to Elecraft today for several mods and some additional features to be added. I would like to get the older 1391 unit working before sending 1526 up north.
>
> Any thoughts on what might be happening or troubleshooting options would be great.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
>
>
> Keith
>
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>

Keith Heimbold

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Hi Don,

Thanks for the quick recommendation. I will give that a try this morning.

I did a complete switch out of the headset, PTT switch and adapter and experienced the same cutout. I did consider this being an RFI issue. I was doing a bit more ragchewing then usual last night.

I will try your recommendations and report back.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 27, 2012, at 5:48 AM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Kieth,
>
> In cases like that, the first things to check are the external cables - in your particular case, the PTT.
> If you are using the mic jack PTT, try the one on the back panel - if that cures the problem check your cables again.
>
> The other possibility is that something happened in your antenna system and you are experiencing RF feedback. Run the K3 barefoot into a dummy load - if the condition persists into a dummy load, then you can conclude that the K3 might be to blame.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
> On 7/27/2012 8:36 AM, Keith Heimbold wrote:
>> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an issue with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power output simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>>
>> I currently use a Heil proset 4 and a heil hand switch with that rig. I then decided to switched headsets and switch to my heil proset 5 and my foot switch which is on my other K3 to determine if it was an issue with headset / PTT switch combination. Upon transmitting it continued to cut out the audio and power. I was alerted by the ham I was communicating with that I was having an issue with my audio. This issue continued to persist so I decided to shutdown the system.
>>
>> My configuration last night also consisted of this K3 unit being connected to my Yaesu Quadra amplifier to my SteppIR three element Yagi. I was operating at about 500W.
>>
>> This is the first time I have had any issue with this K3 unit though I do experience some unusual receive issues with spurious and higher noise levels with this unit versus my other K3 and my KX3.
>>
>> Turns out that I am coincidentally sending up my other K3 1526 to Elecraft today for several mods and some additional features to be added. I would like to get the older 1391 unit working before sending 1526 up north.
>>
>> Any thoughts on what might be happening or troubleshooting options would be great.
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Keith
>> AG6AZ
>>
>>
>>
>> Keith
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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
>>
>

vk4tux

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Keith, From your original post you seemed to say that the signal output
dropped whilst the K3 was still in TX,
i.e. you say " during PTT transmit ". So was the TX indicator active during
"my transmit audio cutting out" ?

This would indicate no problem with the ptt, but the audio - signal circuit
chain, or rfi issues. Can you clarify please?

I guess Don interpreted your original post different to myself. I would test
sending dits into a DL for the same period to check
power level consistency before looking at other areas.

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email]
[mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Keith Heimbold
Sent: Friday, 27 July 2012 10:53 PM
To: [hidden email]
Cc: Elecraft Group
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit audio cuts out

Hi Don,

Thanks for the quick recommendation. I will give that a try this morning.

I did a complete switch out of the headset, PTT switch and adapter and
experienced the same cutout. I did consider this being an RFI issue. I was
doing a bit more ragchewing then usual last night.

I will try your recommendations and report back.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 27, 2012, at 5:48 AM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Kieth,
>
> In cases like that, the first things to check are the external cables - in
your particular case, the PTT.
> If you are using the mic jack PTT, try the one on the back panel - if that
cures the problem check your cables again.
>
> The other possibility is that something happened in your antenna system
and you are experiencing RF feedback. Run the K3 barefoot into a dummy load
- if the condition persists into a dummy load, then you can conclude that
the K3 might be to blame.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
> On 7/27/2012 8:36 AM, Keith Heimbold wrote:
>> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an issue
with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power output
simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this both
on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>>
>> I currently use a Heil proset 4 and a heil hand switch with that rig. I
then decided to switched headsets and switch to my heil proset 5 and my foot
switch which is on my other K3 to determine if it was an issue with headset
/ PTT switch combination. Upon transmitting it continued to cut out the
audio and power. I was alerted by the ham I was communicating with that I
was having an issue with my audio. This issue continued to persist so I
decided to shutdown the system.
>>
>> My configuration last night also consisted of this K3 unit being
connected to my Yaesu Quadra amplifier to my SteppIR three element Yagi. I
was operating at about 500W.
>>
>> This is the first time I have had any issue with this K3 unit though I do
experience some unusual receive issues with spurious and higher noise levels
with this unit versus my other K3 and my KX3.
>>
>> Turns out that I am coincidentally sending up my other K3 1526 to
Elecraft today for several mods and some additional features to be added. I
would like to get the older 1391 unit working before sending 1526 up north.
>>
>> Any thoughts on what might be happening or troubleshooting options would
be great.

>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Keith
>> AG6AZ
>>
>>
>>
>> Keith
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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

Keith Heimbold

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Adrian,

I am looking at this as an rfi issue first and foremost. I am going to clean up a little bit inside the shack. That particular K3 has been suffering with unusual noise with my new SteppIR three element that was put up less than a month ago.

To answer your question, the K3 was in transmit mode the entire time when the audio was cutting out. Very odd.

If it turns out to be not a rfi issue then I will investigate the K3 a little more. I am shipping my other K3 to Elecraft tomorrow for a couple key mods and upgrades (negative ALC and band control which is important to me for a possible future KPA500 purchase) and it will be out of pocket for three or so weeks so I want to make sure that it is good to go.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 27, 2012, at 1:16 PM, "Adrian" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Keith, From your original post you seemed to say that the signal output
> dropped whilst the K3 was still in TX,
> i.e. you say " during PTT transmit ". So was the TX indicator active during
> "my transmit audio cutting out" ?
>
> This would indicate no problem with the ptt, but the audio - signal circuit
> chain, or rfi issues. Can you clarify please?
>
> I guess Don interpreted your original post different to myself. I would test
> sending dits into a DL for the same period to check
> power level consistency before looking at other areas.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: [hidden email]
> [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Keith Heimbold
> Sent: Friday, 27 July 2012 10:53 PM
> To: [hidden email]
> Cc: Elecraft Group
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit audio cuts out
>
> Hi Don,
>
> Thanks for the quick recommendation. I will give that a try this morning.
>
> I did a complete switch out of the headset, PTT switch and adapter and
> experienced the same cutout. I did consider this being an RFI issue. I was
> doing a bit more ragchewing then usual last night.
>
> I will try your recommendations and report back.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>
> On Jul 27, 2012, at 5:48 AM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Kieth,
>>
>> In cases like that, the first things to check are the external cables - in
> your particular case, the PTT.
>> If you are using the mic jack PTT, try the one on the back panel - if that
> cures the problem check your cables again.
>>
>> The other possibility is that something happened in your antenna system
> and you are experiencing RF feedback. Run the K3 barefoot into a dummy load
> - if the condition persists into a dummy load, then you can conclude that
> the K3 might be to blame.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>> On 7/27/2012 8:36 AM, Keith Heimbold wrote:
>>> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an issue
> with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power output
> simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this both
> on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>>>
>>> I currently use a Heil proset 4 and a heil hand switch with that rig. I
> then decided to switched headsets and switch to my heil proset 5 and my foot
> switch which is on my other K3 to determine if it was an issue with headset
> / PTT switch combination. Upon transmitting it continued to cut out the
> audio and power. I was alerted by the ham I was communicating with that I
> was having an issue with my audio. This issue continued to persist so I
> decided to shutdown the system.
>>>
>>> My configuration last night also consisted of this K3 unit being
> connected to my Yaesu Quadra amplifier to my SteppIR three element Yagi. I
> was operating at about 500W.
>>>
>>> This is the first time I have had any issue with this K3 unit though I do
> experience some unusual receive issues with spurious and higher noise levels
> with this unit versus my other K3 and my KX3.
>>>
>>> Turns out that I am coincidentally sending up my other K3 1526 to
> Elecraft today for several mods and some additional features to be added. I
> would like to get the older 1391 unit working before sending 1526 up north.
>>>
>>> Any thoughts on what might be happening or troubleshooting options would
> be great.
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>> Keith
>>> AG6AZ
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Keith
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>> 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

vk4tux

K3 transmit audio cuts out

Keith, OK on that. I have had a similar experience;

Clamp ferrites on the mic line are beneficial, about 6 or so(wrap the core
as much as possible, allowing to shut).

# A series rf choke and 0.1uF bypass(to gnd) at the amp end keyline is
beneficial also.
Clamp ferrites also on the keyline help if you don't wish to do #.

Choking the coaxial feed at the SteppIR feedpoint, and again at shack entry
is helpful, if not already done.

-----Original Message-----
From: Keith Heimbold [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Saturday, 28 July 2012 8:23 AM
To: Adrian
Cc: Elecraft Group
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit audio cuts out

Adrian,

I am looking at this as an rfi issue first and foremost. I am going to clean
up a little bit inside the shack. That particular K3 has been suffering with
unusual noise with my new SteppIR three element that was put up less than a
month ago.

To answer your question, the K3 was in transmit mode the entire time when
the audio was cutting out. Very odd.

If it turns out to be not a rfi issue then I will investigate the K3 a
little more. I am shipping my other K3 to Elecraft tomorrow for a couple key
mods and upgrades (negative ALC and band control which is important to me
for a possible future KPA500 purchase) and it will be out of pocket for
three or so weeks so I want to make sure that it is good to go.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 27, 2012, at 1:16 PM, "Adrian" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Keith, From your original post you seemed to say that the signal
> output dropped whilst the K3 was still in TX, i.e. you say " during
> PTT transmit ". So was the TX indicator active during "my transmit
> audio cutting out" ?
>
> This would indicate no problem with the ptt, but the audio - signal
> circuit chain, or rfi issues. Can you clarify please?
>
> I guess Don interpreted your original post different to myself. I
> would test sending dits into a DL for the same period to check power
> level consistency before looking at other areas.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: [hidden email]
> [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Keith Heimbold
> Sent: Friday, 27 July 2012 10:53 PM
> To: [hidden email]
> Cc: Elecraft Group
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit audio cuts out
>
> Hi Don,
>
> Thanks for the quick recommendation. I will give that a try this morning.
>
> I did a complete switch out of the headset, PTT switch and adapter and
> experienced the same cutout. I did consider this being an RFI issue. I
> was doing a bit more ragchewing then usual last night.
>
> I will try your recommendations and report back.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>
> On Jul 27, 2012, at 5:48 AM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Kieth,
>>
>> In cases like that, the first things to check are the external cables
>> - in
> your particular case, the PTT.
>> If you are using the mic jack PTT, try the one on the back panel - if
>> that
> cures the problem check your cables again.
>>
>> The other possibility is that something happened in your antenna
>> system
> and you are experiencing RF feedback. Run the K3 barefoot into a
> dummy load
> - if the condition persists into a dummy load, then you can conclude
> that the K3 might be to blame.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>> On 7/27/2012 8:36 AM, Keith Heimbold wrote:
>>> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an
>>> issue
> with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power
> output simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could
> see this both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>>>
>>> I currently use a Heil proset 4 and a heil hand switch with that
>>> rig. I
> then decided to switched headsets and switch to my heil proset 5 and
> my foot switch which is on my other K3 to determine if it was an issue
> with headset / PTT switch combination. Upon transmitting it continued
> to cut out the audio and power. I was alerted by the ham I was
> communicating with that I was having an issue with my audio. This
> issue continued to persist so I decided to shutdown the system.
>>>
>>> My configuration last night also consisted of this K3 unit being
> connected to my Yaesu Quadra amplifier to my SteppIR three element
> Yagi. I was operating at about 500W.
>>>
>>> This is the first time I have had any issue with this K3 unit though
>>> I do
> experience some unusual receive issues with spurious and higher noise
> levels with this unit versus my other K3 and my KX3.
>>>
>>> Turns out that I am coincidentally sending up my other K3 1526 to
> Elecraft today for several mods and some additional features to be
> added. I would like to get the older 1391 unit working before sending 1526

up north.

>>>
>>> Any thoughts on what might be happening or troubleshooting options
>>> would
> be great.
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>> Keith
>>> AG6AZ
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Keith
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>> 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

Keith Heimbold

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

I am implementing these suggestions. I have a balun design 1:1 current choke that I plan to put at the entrance of the shack. I loaned it out but just asked for it back. I will ferrite up the key line to the Quadra amp. I have added some ferrites to the microphone.

Thanks for the suggestions! I will report back if these recommendations help.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 27, 2012, at 4:04 PM, "Adrian" <[hidden email]> wrote:

>
> Keith, OK on that. I have had a similar experience;
>
> Clamp ferrites on the mic line are beneficial, about 6 or so(wrap the core
> as much as possible, allowing to shut).
>
> # A series rf choke and 0.1uF bypass(to gnd) at the amp end keyline is
> beneficial also.
> Clamp ferrites also on the keyline help if you don't wish to do #.
>
> Choking the coaxial feed at the SteppIR feedpoint, and again at shack entry
> is helpful, if not already done.
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Keith Heimbold [mailto:[hidden email]]
> Sent: Saturday, 28 July 2012 8:23 AM
> To: Adrian
> Cc: Elecraft Group
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit audio cuts out
>
> Adrian,
>
> I am looking at this as an rfi issue first and foremost. I am going to clean
> up a little bit inside the shack. That particular K3 has been suffering with
> unusual noise with my new SteppIR three element that was put up less than a
> month ago.
>
> To answer your question, the K3 was in transmit mode the entire time when
> the audio was cutting out. Very odd.
>
> If it turns out to be not a rfi issue then I will investigate the K3 a
> little more. I am shipping my other K3 to Elecraft tomorrow for a couple key
> mods and upgrades (negative ALC and band control which is important to me
> for a possible future KPA500 purchase) and it will be out of pocket for
> three or so weeks so I want to make sure that it is good to go.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>
> On Jul 27, 2012, at 1:16 PM, "Adrian" <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Keith, From your original post you seemed to say that the signal
>> output dropped whilst the K3 was still in TX, i.e. you say " during
>> PTT transmit ". So was the TX indicator active during "my transmit
>> audio cutting out" ?
>>
>> This would indicate no problem with the ptt, but the audio - signal
>> circuit chain, or rfi issues. Can you clarify please?
>>
>> I guess Don interpreted your original post different to myself. I
>> would test sending dits into a DL for the same period to check power
>> level consistency before looking at other areas.
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: [hidden email]
>> [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Keith Heimbold
>> Sent: Friday, 27 July 2012 10:53 PM
>> To: [hidden email]
>> Cc: Elecraft Group
>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit audio cuts out
>>
>> Hi Don,
>>
>> Thanks for the quick recommendation. I will give that a try this morning.
>>
>> I did a complete switch out of the headset, PTT switch and adapter and
>> experienced the same cutout. I did consider this being an RFI issue. I
>> was doing a bit more ragchewing then usual last night.
>>
>> I will try your recommendations and report back.
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Keith
>> AG6AZ
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>>
>> On Jul 27, 2012, at 5:48 AM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>
>>> Kieth,
>>>
>>> In cases like that, the first things to check are the external cables
>>> - in
>> your particular case, the PTT.
>>> If you are using the mic jack PTT, try the one on the back panel - if
>>> that
>> cures the problem check your cables again.
>>>
>>> The other possibility is that something happened in your antenna
>>> system
>> and you are experiencing RF feedback. Run the K3 barefoot into a
>> dummy load
>> - if the condition persists into a dummy load, then you can conclude
>> that the K3 might be to blame.
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Don W3FPR
>>> On 7/27/2012 8:36 AM, Keith Heimbold wrote:
>>>> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an
>>>> issue
>> with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power
>> output simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could
>> see this both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>>>>
>>>> I currently use a Heil proset 4 and a heil hand switch with that
>>>> rig. I
>> then decided to switched headsets and switch to my heil proset 5 and
>> my foot switch which is on my other K3 to determine if it was an issue
>> with headset / PTT switch combination. Upon transmitting it continued
>> to cut out the audio and power. I was alerted by the ham I was
>> communicating with that I was having an issue with my audio. This
>> issue continued to persist so I decided to shutdown the system.
>>>>
>>>> My configuration last night also consisted of this K3 unit being
>> connected to my Yaesu Quadra amplifier to my SteppIR three element
>> Yagi. I was operating at about 500W.
>>>>
>>>> This is the first time I have had any issue with this K3 unit though
>>>> I do
>> experience some unusual receive issues with spurious and higher noise
>> levels with this unit versus my other K3 and my KX3.
>>>>
>>>> Turns out that I am coincidentally sending up my other K3 1526 to
>> Elecraft today for several mods and some additional features to be
>> added. I would like to get the older 1391 unit working before sending 1526
> up north.
>>>>
>>>> Any thoughts on what might be happening or troubleshooting options
>>>> would
>> be great.
>>>>
>>>> Thanks,
>>>>
>>>> Keith
>>>> AG6AZ
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Keith
>>>>
>>>> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>>> 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
>>>>
>>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
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>> 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
>>
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>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email
>> list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>
> ______________________________________________________________
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> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
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>
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Arie Kleingeld PA3A-2

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

In reply to this post by Keith Heimbold

Have you checked the power supply of the K3?

73
Arie PA3A

Op 27-7-2012 14:36, Keith Heimbold schreef:

Keith Heimbold

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Hi Ariel,

I switched to another 35 amp power supply and has the same issue. I should have mentioned that in my post to the reflector.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 28, 2012, at 5:36 AM, "Arie Kleingeld PA3A" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Have you checked the power supply of the K3?
>
> 73
> Arie PA3A
>
>
> Op 27-7-2012 14:36, Keith Heimbold schreef:
>> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial 1391, I had an issue with my transmit audio cutting out during PTT transmit. Also power output simultaneously dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Keith
>> AG6AZ
>>
>>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
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> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

Eugene Balinski

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

You might consider checking the power connectors and cable
on both end.

73
Gene K1NR

On Sat, 28 Jul 2012 07:04:22 -0700
Keith Heimbold <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Hi Ariel,
>
> I switched to another 35 amp power supply and has the
> same issue. I should have mentioned that in my post to
> the reflector.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>
> On Jul 28, 2012, at 5:36 AM, "Arie Kleingeld PA3A"
> <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> > Have you checked the power supply of the K3?
> >
> > 73
> > Arie PA3A
> >
> >
> > Op 27-7-2012 14:36, Keith Heimbold schreef:
> >> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial
> 1391, I had an issue with my transmit audio cutting out
> during PTT transmit. Also power output simultaneously
> dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this
> both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> Thanks,
> >>
> >> Keith
> >> AG6AZ
> >>
> >>
> >
> >
>

______________________________________________________________
> > 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

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Keith Heimbold

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Gene,

Great suggestion. It maybe the connector going into the rig or the connectors which I built.

Thanks,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 28, 2012, at 2:32 PM, "Eugene Balinski" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> You might consider checking the power connectors and cable
> on both end.
>
> 73
> Gene K1NR
>
>
> On Sat, 28 Jul 2012 07:04:22 -0700
> Keith Heimbold <[hidden email]> wrote:
>> Hi Ariel,
>>
>> I switched to another 35 amp power supply and has the
>> same issue. I should have mentioned that in my post to
>> the reflector.
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Keith
>> AG6AZ
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>>
>> On Jul 28, 2012, at 5:36 AM, "Arie Kleingeld PA3A"
>> <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>
>>> Have you checked the power supply of the K3?
>>>
>>> 73
>>> Arie PA3A
>>>
>>>
>>> Op 27-7-2012 14:36, Keith Heimbold schreef:
>>>> While operating last night on 20m on my K3 serial
>> 1391, I had an issue with my transmit audio cutting out
>> during PTT transmit. Also power output simultaneously
>> dropped out completely in mid sentence. I could see this
>> both on the power meter and hear it on monitor.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Thanks,
>>>>
>>>> Keith
>>>> AG6AZ
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
> ______________________________________________________________
>>> 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
>
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------
> Web mail provided by NuNet, Inc. The Premier National provider.
> http://www.nni.com/

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Keith,

You could also have a loose connection in your microphone cable. When
operating SSB, if there is no audio, there will be no RF output.
So you can look at the PTT, the audio, the power supply, and just about
every thing else in your station. Cables are usually the weak link.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 7/28/2012 5:34 PM, Keith Heimbold wrote:

> Gene,
>
> Great suggestion. It maybe the connector going into the rig or the connectors which I built.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
>

Keith Heimbold

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Don,

Will do so. I did switch out two complete headsets including adapter and
foot switch and had the same experience. I have done a RFI cleanup effort
and so far things have not re-occurred.

Thanks,

Ketih
AG6AZ

-----Original Message-----
From: Don Wilhelm
Sent: Saturday, July 28, 2012 3:44 PM
To: Keith Heimbold
Cc: Eugene Balinski ; [hidden email]
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 transmit audio cuts out

Keith,

You could also have a loose connection in your microphone cable. When
operating SSB, if there is no audio, there will be no RF output.
So you can look at the PTT, the audio, the power supply, and just about
every thing else in your station. Cables are usually the weak link.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 7/28/2012 5:34 PM, Keith Heimbold wrote:

> Gene,
>
> Great suggestion. It maybe the connector going into the rig or the
> connectors which I built.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
>

Keith Heimbold

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

In reply to this post by Don Wilhelm-4

Don,

I am now starting to think that it is an issue with my power connectors that I am using.

I bought some additional ferrites and put the balun design 1113u in line to take care of RFI but i know believe that the power connectors are a little intermittent at times. I don't always get a solid click when inserting into the back of the K3 or into the power supply line. I like the convenience of those type of connectors but they do seem to loosen up over time.

Thanks again,

Keith
AG6AZ

Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos

On Jul 28, 2012, at 3:44 PM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Keith,
>
> You could also have a loose connection in your microphone cable. When operating SSB, if there is no audio, there will be no RF output.
> So you can look at the PTT, the audio, the power supply, and just about every thing else in your station. Cables are usually the weak link.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 7/28/2012 5:34 PM, Keith Heimbold wrote:
>> Gene,
>>
>> Great suggestion. It maybe the connector going into the rig or the connectors which I built.
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Keith
>> AG6AZ
>>
>>
>

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Keith,

The APP connectors do not "loosen up over time" if they are properly
assembled.

I have repaired 3 KPA100s over the last week that have had APP
connectors improperly assembled. This is an ongoing problem.

If your APP connectors do not fit together and "latch" in place, it is
likely that you have not assembled them properly. Take a look at the
diagram on page 37 of the XV transverter manual Download from
http://www.elecraft.com/manual/XV%20Transverter%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20F.pdf.

Figure 29 is the best description of the proper locking of the APP
blades into the housing.

If you do not have the blades locked into the housing correctly, you
will not have adequate DC power connections and will be complaining
about the APP connectors loosing the connection. If you have problems
of that nature, make certain you have properly assembled the APP connectors.

73,
Don W3FPR
On 7/28/2012 11:10 PM, Keith Heimbold wrote:

> Don,
>
> I am now starting to think that it is an issue with my power connectors that I am using.
>
> I bought some additional ferrites and put the balun design 1113u in line to take care of RFI but i know believe that the power connectors are a little intermittent at times. I don't always get a solid click when inserting into the back of the K3 or into the power supply line. I like the convenience of those type of connectors but they do seem to loosen up over time.
>
> Thanks again,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
>
> On Jul 28, 2012, at 3:44 PM, "Don Wilhelm" <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Keith,
>>
>> You could also have a loose connection in your microphone cable. When operating SSB, if there is no audio, there will be no RF output.
>> So you can look at the PTT, the audio, the power supply, and just about every thing else in your station. Cables are usually the weak link.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>>
>> On 7/28/2012 5:34 PM, Keith Heimbold wrote:
>>> Gene,
>>>
>>> Great suggestion. It maybe the connector going into the rig or the connectors which I built.
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>> Keith
>>> AG6AZ
>>>
>>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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
>

David Bunte

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Don -

I have not been following this thread very carefully, but am a bit baffled
by your response to Keith. He talked about not getting a "solid click"
when plugging the DC cable into the back of the K3... it sounds like you
are talking about the "click" when inserting the terminal into the APP.

I have NEVER had a "click" when plugging a power pole into another power
pole, whether on the rear of my K3, or in-line. In fact, the power poles
disconnect from the rear of the K3 with such ease that if I move the rig,
even a little, I OFTEN have to plug the DC back into the rear of the K3.

I thought that perhaps I did not understand what you were telling him, so I
looked at the XV download link you referenced, and cannot find the diagram
to which you make reference.

Dave - K9FN

On Sun, Jul 29, 2012 at 12:22 AM, Don Wilhelm <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Keith,
> .....
>
> If your APP connectors do not fit together and "latch" in place, it is
> likely that you have not assembled them properly. Take a look at the
> diagram on page 37 of the XV transverter manual Download from
>
> http://www.elecraft.com/manual/XV%20Transverter%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20F.pdf
> .
>
> Figure 29 is the best description of the proper locking of the APP
> blades into the housing.
>
>

MontyS

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

David,

While I wouldn't call it a "click", I do feel a definite resistance when connecting my K3 power pole that lessens after fully inserting the plug, making it feel like a "grab". I move the radio quite a bit while installing all 16 cables after a disconnect; the APP is the 4th connection made while the K3 sits on its left side. The APP stays in place and will only pull out with a definite tug on the cable.

Perhaps your cable assembly has problems.

Monty K2DLJ

On Jul 29, 2012, at 12:37 AM, David Bunte <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Don -
>
> I have not been following this thread very carefully, but am a bit baffled
> by your response to Keith. He talked about not getting a "solid click"
> when plugging the DC cable into the back of the K3... it sounds like you
> are talking about the "click" when inserting the terminal into the APP.
>
> I have NEVER had a "click" when plugging a power pole into another power
> pole, whether on the rear of my K3, or in-line. In fact, the power poles
> disconnect from the rear of the K3 with such ease that if I move the rig,
> even a little, I OFTEN have to plug the DC back into the rear of the K3.
>
> I thought that perhaps I did not understand what you were telling him, so I
> looked at the XV download link you referenced, and cannot find the diagram
> to which you make reference.
>
> Dave - K9FN
>
> On Sun, Jul 29, 2012 at 12:22 AM, Don Wilhelm <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Keith,
>> .....
>>
>> If your APP connectors do not fit together and "latch" in place, it is
>> likely that you have not assembled them properly. Take a look at the
>> diagram on page 37 of the XV transverter manual Download from
>>
>> http://www.elecraft.com/manual/XV%20Transverter%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20F.pdf
>> .
>>
>> Figure 29 is the best description of the proper locking of the APP
>> blades into the housing.
>>
>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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

David Bunte

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

Monty -

Thanks for your comments. I also feel that "resistance change" as I insert
the connectors. I admit that the first five years I used power poles I was
using them in a mobile environment, where the it was routine for the
connectors to vibrate loose... thus it was normal for me to secure all such
connections, usually with a small "zip tie" of some kind. However, I also
noticed that the problem was worse with heavier cables than with smaller
ones. Perhaps the issue I have experienced when I move my K3 is that the
power cable does not have enough slack to permit much movement of the radio
without exerting to much pull on the connection.

Very 73,

Dave
K9FN

On Sun, Jul 29, 2012 at 6:54 AM, Monty Shultes <[hidden email]>wrote:

> David,
>
> While I wouldn't call it a "click", I do feel a definite resistance when
> connecting my K3 power pole that lessens after fully inserting the plug,
> making it feel like a "grab". I move the radio quite a bit while
> installing all 16 cables after a disconnect; the APP is the 4th connection
> made while the K3 sits on its left side. The APP stays in place and will
> only pull out with a definite tug on the cable.
>
> Perhaps your cable assembly has problems.
>
> Monty K2DLJ
>
> On Jul 29, 2012, at 12:37 AM, David Bunte <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> > Don -
> >
> > I have not been following this thread very carefully, but am a bit
> baffled
> > by your response to Keith. He talked about not getting a "solid click"
> > when plugging the DC cable into the back of the K3... it sounds like you
> > are talking about the "click" when inserting the terminal into the APP.
> >
> > I have NEVER had a "click" when plugging a power pole into another power
> > pole, whether on the rear of my K3, or in-line. In fact, the power poles
> > disconnect from the rear of the K3 with such ease that if I move the rig,
> > even a little, I OFTEN have to plug the DC back into the rear of the K3.
> >
> > I thought that perhaps I did not understand what you were telling him,
> so I
> > looked at the XV download link you referenced, and cannot find the
> diagram
> > to which you make reference.
> >
> > Dave - K9FN
> >
> > On Sun, Jul 29, 2012 at 12:22 AM, Don Wilhelm <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
> >
> >> Keith,
> >> .....
> >>
> >> If your APP connectors do not fit together and "latch" in place, it is
> >> likely that you have not assembled them properly. Take a look at the
> >> diagram on page 37 of the XV transverter manual Download from
> >>
> >>
> http://www.elecraft.com/manual/XV%20Transverter%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20F.pdf
> >> .
> >>
> >> Figure 29 is the best description of the proper locking of the APP
> >> blades into the housing.
> >>
> >>
> > ______________________________________________________________
> > 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 transmit audio cuts out

In reply to this post by Keith Heimbold

Keith,

If your APP connectors do not mate with a bit of a *click*, then they
are assembled incorrectly. The blades of the conductors *must* be
locked over the tips of the spring fingers located in the housing.

Things come in threes so the sayings go, I have repaired 2 KPA100s in
the last week which did not have the blades of the APP connector fully
seated - I am waiting on the 3rd one.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 7/28/2012 11:10 PM, Keith Heimbold wrote:

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: K3 transmit audio cuts out

In reply to this post by Keith Heimbold

Sorry, The link below is to the XV Owner's Manual while the figure I
wanted to convey to you is in the XV assembly manual.
http://www.elecraft.com/manual/Assembly%20Manual%20XV50,144,%20222%20Rev%20D.pdf

Look at both of the APP mating connectors. If the blades of one or both
are not fully seated behind the locking spring fingers the fit will be
loose, the connectors will fall apart with only a slight movement and
the connectors will heat up because there is significant resistance in
the connection.

73,
Don W3FPR

Keith,

The APP connectors do not "loosen up over time" if they are properly
assembled.

I have repaired 3 KPA100s over the last week that have had APP
connectors improperly assembled. This is an ongoing problem.

If your APP connectors do not fit together and "latch" in place, it is
likely that you have not assembled them properly. Take a look at the
diagram on page 37 of the XV transverter manual Download from
http://www.elecraft.com/manual/XV%20Transverter%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20F.pdf.

Figure 29 is the best description of the proper locking of the APP
blades into the housing.

If you do not have the blades locked into the housing correctly, you
will not have adequate DC power connections and will be complaining
about the APP connectors loosing the connection. If you have problems
of that nature, make certain you have properly assembled the APP connectors.

73,
Don W3FPR
On 7/28/2012 11:10 PM, Keith Heimbold wrote: