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Newbie

Ralph Bagwell
Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )

I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear - I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want to hurt the beautiful device .

thanks,

ralph ( xe1hi )



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Re: Newbie

va3bxg
welcome to the list, and as a newbie as well, i really understand where
you are at.


fr now to charge the battery, you must use an external charger (if you
are using the 8 AA internally)

and play with it, i don't think you can hurt it as long as you what is
reasonable


On 12-08-06 8:03 PM, Ralph Bagwell wrote:

> Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>
> I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear - I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want to hurt the beautiful device .
>
> thanks,
>
> ralph ( xe1hi )
>
>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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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Re: Newbie

N5GE-2
In reply to this post by Ralph Bagwell
Hello, Ralph,

It would help all of us if you would tell us what it is you need help with.

Is it a K3, K2, KX3 or KPA500?

Amateur Radio Operator N5GE
ARRL Lifetime Member
QCWA Lifetime Member


On Mon, 6 Aug 2012 19:03:46 -0500, "Ralph Bagwell" <[hidden email]>
wrote:

>Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>
>I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear - I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want to hurt the beautiful device .
>
>thanks,
>
>ralph ( xe1hi )
>
>
>
>______________________________________________________________
>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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Re: Newbie

Don Wilhelm-4
In reply to this post by Ralph Bagwell
Ralph,

I am going to assume the KX3, but you do need to specify the type in the
subject line for the best results.

The KXBC3 option is not yet available, so you need to "ignore" that part
of the manual.  It will do what it says when installed.  Note that it is
an option, and not required.  Until that option is available, you will
have to remove the batteries for re-charging (also the "clock" will be
rest to zero when you power off).

Newbies are welcome right here - ask away, and you will usually find a
response in short order.

The KX3 manual itself has a lot of "how-to" information in it.  I
suggest you sit down with your KX3 along with the manual and "walk
through" the procedures as you read the manual.

There is also a Yahoo Group for the KX3, but much of the information is
duplicated on this reflector.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 8/6/2012 8:03 PM, Ralph Bagwell wrote:
> Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>
> I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear - I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want to hurt the beautiful device .
>
> thanks,
>
> ralph ( xe1hi )
>
>

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Re: Newbie

N5GE-2
In reply to this post by N5GE-2
Ralph,

I know the feeling ;-)

One thing that will help you is to put the name of the Elecraft product in the
subject line. Something like "KX3 Need Help Getting Started" will get you the
help you need.

When I got my K3 I was in the same place you are now, so don't be bashful about
asking questions.  If the group can't help you with an answer, call Elecraft and
ask them for help.  They are the most helpful folks I've ever encountered.  No
kidding.

My suggestions are:

Set the KX3 on your operating table and get the manual out.  Read it while you
get to know the controls.  Do this a couple of times.

One of the things I do is keep a PDF file copy of my K3 manual handy on the
computer screen.  For instance, if you need help charging the batteries, right
click the page you are on and look at the menu that pops up, then select "Find"
and you will see a small window open in the upper right hand corner of the page.
Type batteries in the window and click on the small right hand button on the
right of the window and see if the page with batteries comes up.

I don't have a KX3, so I can't help you with it, but maybe that will get you
started.

Good luck.  You're going to love that KX3.  You just received something special
from a special company.

Amateur Radio Operator N5GE
ARRL Lifetime Member
QCWA Lifetime Member


On Mon, 6 Aug 2012 20:59:45 -0500, "Ralph Bagwell" <[hidden email]>
wrote:

>Thanks Tom,
>
>My invoice shows that I have a KX3-F ( with mike and USB cable ) . I have no
>idea of what modules are installed. It has been so many years since I keyed
>a mike - I have a lot to re-learn . I'm an old "ham" and in past years have
>done RTTY, packet, CW etc.
>
>I hope to combine my computer and ham hobbies .
>
>I need a lot of help but it is difficult to list what I need to learn . I
>just want to listen to the bands for a while to learn what bands are usable.
>The design of this device is different than any I have seen . Even attaching
>power required a read - the on/off switch is not a common one for me.
>
>I just assumed that there have been many others with these same learning
>needs - thus a common function is to have a section dedicated to raw
>new-comers so that experienced folks don't have to be bothered with novice
>questions over and over again .Thus the general question - Is there a newbie
>area in this forum
>
>( example: when selecting the band of interest by pressing the "band"
>button - is there a way to " go backwards " ? My guess is that pressing
>another button or holding the "band" button might reverse the selecting
>pattern - but searching archives so far has revealed no answer to a very
>simple operation.)
>
>Thanks very much .
>
>
>----- Original Message -----
>From: "N5GE" <[hidden email]>
>To: "Ralph Bagwell" <[hidden email]>
>Cc: <[hidden email]>
>Sent: Monday, August 06, 2012 8:15 PM
>Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Newbie
>
>
>Hello, Ralph,
>
>It would help all of us if you would tell us what it is you need help with.
>
>Is it a K3, K2, KX3 or KPA500?
>
>Amateur Radio Operator N5GE
>ARRL Lifetime Member
>QCWA Lifetime Member
>
>
>On Mon, 6 Aug 2012 19:03:46 -0500, "Ralph Bagwell" <[hidden email]>
>wrote:
>
>>Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have difficulty
>>with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>>
>>I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for
>>instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear - I'd like
>>absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and turning knobs at
>>almost random to do simple things . I don't want to hurt the beautiful
>>device .
>>
>>thanks,
>>
>>ralph ( xe1hi )
>>
>>
>>
>>______________________________________________________________
>>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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Re: Newbie

va3bxg
In reply to this post by Don Wilhelm-4
i am also a newbie (i was the one who asked where the volume control
was...boy did i get flack for that one)

but i must tell you the manual could be really revamped up, to the point
that newbies can use it. right now, you may think that it is designed
with less experienced operators, but , in my opinion falls very short in
that regard.

the digital section is lacking on some practical information on where
cables should be used where (there are/were a lot of question about that
here and the KX3 reflector that proves my point)

while there is more practical information the a ICOM manual, it is not
anywhere close to where a new person can read it and use it as solely
use it reference material

On 12-08-06 9:59 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:

> Ralph,
>
> I am going to assume the KX3, but you do need to specify the type in the
> subject line for the best results.
>
> The KXBC3 option is not yet available, so you need to "ignore" that part
> of the manual.  It will do what it says when installed.  Note that it is
> an option, and not required.  Until that option is available, you will
> have to remove the batteries for re-charging (also the "clock" will be
> rest to zero when you power off).
>
> Newbies are welcome right here - ask away, and you will usually find a
> response in short order.
>
> The KX3 manual itself has a lot of "how-to" information in it.  I
> suggest you sit down with your KX3 along with the manual and "walk
> through" the procedures as you read the manual.
>
> There is also a Yahoo Group for the KX3, but much of the information is
> duplicated on this reflector.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 8/6/2012 8:03 PM, Ralph Bagwell wrote:
>> Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>>
>> I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear - I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want to hurt the beautiful device .
>>
>> thanks,
>>
>> ralph ( xe1hi )
>>
>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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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Re: Newbie

wayne burdick
Administrator
Robert,

We did include a lot of material for first-time users, but we had to  
draw the line somewhere. We're planning to expand the digital section,  
and we'll always be improving it based on user feedback.

Meanwhile, if there are specific areas you'd like to know more about,  
just ask. Our reflector is a great place to start. There's also the  
ARRL Handbook, and other League guides to just about everything.

73,
Wayne
N6KR


On Aug 6, 2012, at 8:22 PM, Robert Galambos wrote:

> i am also a newbie (i was the one who asked where the volume control
> was...boy did i get flack for that one)
>
> but i must tell you the manual could be really revamped up, to the  
> point
> that newbies can use it. right now, you may think that it is designed
> with less experienced operators, but , in my opinion falls very  
> short in
> that regard.
>
> the digital section is lacking on some practical information on where
> cables should be used where (there are/were a lot of question about  
> that
> here and the KX3 reflector that proves my point)
>
> while there is more practical information the a ICOM manual, it is not
> anywhere close to where a new person can read it and use it as solely
> use it reference material
>
> On 12-08-06 9:59 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
>> Ralph,
>>
>> I am going to assume the KX3, but you do need to specify the type  
>> in the
>> subject line for the best results.
>>
>> The KXBC3 option is not yet available, so you need to "ignore" that  
>> part
>> of the manual.  It will do what it says when installed.  Note that  
>> it is
>> an option, and not required.  Until that option is available, you  
>> will
>> have to remove the batteries for re-charging (also the "clock" will  
>> be
>> rest to zero when you power off).
>>
>> Newbies are welcome right here - ask away, and you will usually  
>> find a
>> response in short order.
>>
>> The KX3 manual itself has a lot of "how-to" information in it.  I
>> suggest you sit down with your KX3 along with the manual and "walk
>> through" the procedures as you read the manual.
>>
>> There is also a Yahoo Group for the KX3, but much of the  
>> information is
>> duplicated on this reflector.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>>
>> On 8/6/2012 8:03 PM, Ralph Bagwell wrote:
>>> Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have  
>>> difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>>>
>>> I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for  
>>> instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear -  
>>> I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and  
>>> turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want  
>>> to hurt the beautiful device .
>>>
>>> thanks,
>>>
>>> ralph ( xe1hi )
>>>
>>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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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Re: Newbie

va3bxg
Based on the amount of questions and topics there is three areas of questions/improvements/additions to the guide I would suggest updating, given the admittedly targeting of new/lack of experience hams

1) Digital operations. The how. What cable to hook where. The method of operation. Some of this In part, maybe outside the intention of the manual, but there is still quite a bit that should be added. Just look at the questions that are posted here and on KX3 reflector

2) The whole area of the AGC/filter/setup. (And this is really where the manual lacks info for the new owner/newbie in my uneducated opinion) Again the number of questions from both newbies and experienced hams make it evident that information needs to be enhanced (true some people will never read the manual, but at least one can be directed to it, if the question a raises) this is where I am truly still having issues. Some hams here talk about the menu option to decrease/increase the AGC yet us 'new' guys have yet the complete understanding of what the AGC is supposedly doing and what the menu changing actual does.

3) Power. Now admittedly I believe that has been covered in the manual appropriately. The questions still come. The differences between LiPo LiFePo4 as an example. I did ask the down to basic question and got some responses which I am still trying to digest. But as a side note and a related topic (and something that can be included in the new versions of the manual) is a section on travel. According to current US and international travel restrictions, what can and cannot be brought onboard. Yes they will change, but so will other items in the manual due to upgrades etc. Questions have been placed by all types of hams, on which battery can be carried on, side equipment etc. Again this may be not the high priority on the contents of the manual, but a truly nice to have.

I truly believe that number #1 & #2 of my list should be included/updated within the manual. #3 is a nice to have but based on the questions also something to consider

And if it is not possible, what about a series of entries in the elecraft FAQ (my second choice)

I will borrow someone else sig. Here and say

Ok back to my hole

a 'kosher ham'

Robert

-----Original Message-----
From: Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]>
Date: Mon, 6 Aug 2012 21:17:38
To: Robert Galambos<[hidden email]>
Cc: <[hidden email]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Newbie

Robert,

We did include a lot of material for first-time users, but we had to  
draw the line somewhere. We're planning to expand the digital section,  
and we'll always be improving it based on user feedback.

Meanwhile, if there are specific areas you'd like to know more about,  
just ask. Our reflector is a great place to start. There's also the  
ARRL Handbook, and other League guides to just about everything.

73,
Wayne
N6KR


On Aug 6, 2012, at 8:22 PM, Robert Galambos wrote:

> i am also a newbie (i was the one who asked where the volume control
> was...boy did i get flack for that one)
>
> but i must tell you the manual could be really revamped up, to the  
> point
> that newbies can use it. right now, you may think that it is designed
> with less experienced operators, but , in my opinion falls very  
> short in
> that regard.
>
> the digital section is lacking on some practical information on where
> cables should be used where (there are/were a lot of question about  
> that
> here and the KX3 reflector that proves my point)
>
> while there is more practical information the a ICOM manual, it is not
> anywhere close to where a new person can read it and use it as solely
> use it reference material
>
> On 12-08-06 9:59 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
>> Ralph,
>>
>> I am going to assume the KX3, but you do need to specify the type  
>> in the
>> subject line for the best results.
>>
>> The KXBC3 option is not yet available, so you need to "ignore" that  
>> part
>> of the manual.  It will do what it says when installed.  Note that  
>> it is
>> an option, and not required.  Until that option is available, you  
>> will
>> have to remove the batteries for re-charging (also the "clock" will  
>> be
>> rest to zero when you power off).
>>
>> Newbies are welcome right here - ask away, and you will usually  
>> find a
>> response in short order.
>>
>> The KX3 manual itself has a lot of "how-to" information in it.  I
>> suggest you sit down with your KX3 along with the manual and "walk
>> through" the procedures as you read the manual.
>>
>> There is also a Yahoo Group for the KX3, but much of the  
>> information is
>> duplicated on this reflector.
>>
>> 73,
>> Don W3FPR
>>
>> On 8/6/2012 8:03 PM, Ralph Bagwell wrote:
>>> Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have  
>>> difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>>>
>>> I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for  
>>> instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear -  
>>> I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and  
>>> turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want  
>>> to hurt the beautiful device .
>>>
>>> thanks,
>>>
>>> ralph ( xe1hi )
>>>
>>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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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Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
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Re: Newbie

Matt Maguire
Hi Robert,

Wayne said they they plan to beef up the digital modes section of the manual, so it will be interesting to see what information they put there. The challenge is that there are so many possible setups that it is just not practical to cover them all.

Concerning your questions around AGC, Don W3FPR has written an excellent article on this topic, and you can find it on his web page:
http://www.w3fpr.com/K3_AGC.htm

I would question whether a detailed treatment of the different types of batteries available is really appropriate for a radio user manual, but it would certainly be an excellent topic for an FAQ article.

73, Matt VK2ACL

On 07/08/2012, at 8:54 PM, [hidden email] wrote:

> Based on the amount of questions and topics there is three areas of questions/improvements/additions to the guide I would suggest updating, given the admittedly targeting of new/lack of experience hams
>
> 1) Digital operations. The how. What cable to hook where. The method of operation. Some of this In part, maybe outside the intention of the manual, but there is still quite a bit that should be added. Just look at the questions that are posted here and on KX3 reflector
>
> 2) The whole area of the AGC/filter/setup. (And this is really where the manual lacks info for the new owner/newbie in my uneducated opinion) Again the number of questions from both newbies and experienced hams make it evident that information needs to be enhanced (true some people will never read the manual, but at least one can be directed to it, if the question a raises) this is where I am truly still having issues. Some hams here talk about the menu option to decrease/increase the AGC yet us 'new' guys have yet the complete understanding of what the AGC is supposedly doing and what the menu changing actual does.
>
> 3) Power. Now admittedly I believe that has been covered in the manual appropriately. The questions still come. The differences between LiPo LiFePo4 as an example. I did ask the down to basic question and got some responses which I am still trying to digest. But as a side note and a related topic (and something that can be included in the new versions of the manual) is a section on travel. According to current US and international travel restrictions, what can and cannot be brought onboard. Yes they will change, but so will other items in the manual due to upgrades etc. Questions have been placed by all types of hams, on which battery can be carried on, side equipment etc. Again this may be not the high priority on the contents of the manual, but a truly nice to have.
>
> I truly believe that number #1 & #2 of my list should be included/updated within the manual. #3 is a nice to have but based on the questions also something to consider
>
> And if it is not possible, what about a series of entries in the elecraft FAQ (my second choice)
>
> I will borrow someone else sig. Here and say
>
> Ok back to my hole
>
> a 'kosher ham'
>
> Robert
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]>
> Date: Mon, 6 Aug 2012 21:17:38
> To: Robert Galambos<[hidden email]>
> Cc: <[hidden email]>
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Newbie
>
> Robert,
>
> We did include a lot of material for first-time users, but we had to  
> draw the line somewhere. We're planning to expand the digital section,  
> and we'll always be improving it based on user feedback.
>
> Meanwhile, if there are specific areas you'd like to know more about,  
> just ask. Our reflector is a great place to start. There's also the  
> ARRL Handbook, and other League guides to just about everything.
>
> 73,
> Wayne
> N6KR
>
>
> On Aug 6, 2012, at 8:22 PM, Robert Galambos wrote:
>
>> i am also a newbie (i was the one who asked where the volume control
>> was...boy did i get flack for that one)
>>
>> but i must tell you the manual could be really revamped up, to the  
>> point
>> that newbies can use it. right now, you may think that it is designed
>> with less experienced operators, but , in my opinion falls very  
>> short in
>> that regard.
>>
>> the digital section is lacking on some practical information on where
>> cables should be used where (there are/were a lot of question about  
>> that
>> here and the KX3 reflector that proves my point)
>>
>> while there is more practical information the a ICOM manual, it is not
>> anywhere close to where a new person can read it and use it as solely
>> use it reference material
>>
>> On 12-08-06 9:59 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
>>> Ralph,
>>>
>>> I am going to assume the KX3, but you do need to specify the type  
>>> in the
>>> subject line for the best results.
>>>
>>> The KXBC3 option is not yet available, so you need to "ignore" that  
>>> part
>>> of the manual.  It will do what it says when installed.  Note that  
>>> it is
>>> an option, and not required.  Until that option is available, you  
>>> will
>>> have to remove the batteries for re-charging (also the "clock" will  
>>> be
>>> rest to zero when you power off).
>>>
>>> Newbies are welcome right here - ask away, and you will usually  
>>> find a
>>> response in short order.
>>>
>>> The KX3 manual itself has a lot of "how-to" information in it.  I
>>> suggest you sit down with your KX3 along with the manual and "walk
>>> through" the procedures as you read the manual.
>>>
>>> There is also a Yahoo Group for the KX3, but much of the  
>>> information is
>>> duplicated on this reflector.
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Don W3FPR
>>>
>>> On 8/6/2012 8:03 PM, Ralph Bagwell wrote:
>>>> Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have  
>>>> difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>>>>
>>>> I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for  
>>>> instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear -  
>>>> I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and  
>>>> turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want  
>>>> to hurt the beautiful device .
>>>>
>>>> thanks,
>>>>
>>>> ralph ( xe1hi )
>>>>
>>>>
>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>> 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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>
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Re: Newbie

va3bxg
While I agree about the various aspects of the Digital aspect. But a basic setup so one can cover what is needed to start is something that I believe would be an asset.

Batteries is something that always come up. and an faq is probably more appropriate

I will be reading the article and it seems interesting. But this is still something that I believe should be included as not only a general conversation, but a also specific aspect of the KX3 and its setting
a 'kosher ham'

Robert

-----Original Message-----
From: Matt Maguire <[hidden email]>
Date: Tue, 7 Aug 2012 21:38:06
To: <[hidden email]>
Cc: Elecraft list<[hidden email]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Newbie

Hi Robert,

Wayne said they they plan to beef up the digital modes section of the manual, so it will be interesting to see what information they put there. The challenge is that there are so many possible setups that it is just not practical to cover them all.

Concerning your questions around AGC, Don W3FPR has written an excellent article on this topic, and you can find it on his web page:
http://www.w3fpr.com/K3_AGC.htm

I would question whether a detailed treatment of the different types of batteries available is really appropriate for a radio user manual, but it would certainly be an excellent topic for an FAQ article.

73, Matt VK2ACL

On 07/08/2012, at 8:54 PM, [hidden email] wrote:

> Based on the amount of questions and topics there is three areas of questions/improvements/additions to the guide I would suggest updating, given the admittedly targeting of new/lack of experience hams
>
> 1) Digital operations. The how. What cable to hook where. The method of operation. Some of this In part, maybe outside the intention of the manual, but there is still quite a bit that should be added. Just look at the questions that are posted here and on KX3 reflector
>
> 2) The whole area of the AGC/filter/setup. (And this is really where the manual lacks info for the new owner/newbie in my uneducated opinion) Again the number of questions from both newbies and experienced hams make it evident that information needs to be enhanced (true some people will never read the manual, but at least one can be directed to it, if the question a raises) this is where I am truly still having issues. Some hams here talk about the menu option to decrease/increase the AGC yet us 'new' guys have yet the complete understanding of what the AGC is supposedly doing and what the menu changing actual does.
>
> 3) Power. Now admittedly I believe that has been covered in the manual appropriately. The questions still come. The differences between LiPo LiFePo4 as an example. I did ask the down to basic question and got some responses which I am still trying to digest. But as a side note and a related topic (and something that can be included in the new versions of the manual) is a section on travel. According to current US and international travel restrictions, what can and cannot be brought onboard. Yes they will change, but so will other items in the manual due to upgrades etc. Questions have been placed by all types of hams, on which battery can be carried on, side equipment etc. Again this may be not the high priority on the contents of the manual, but a truly nice to have.
>
> I truly believe that number #1 & #2 of my list should be included/updated within the manual. #3 is a nice to have but based on the questions also something to consider
>
> And if it is not possible, what about a series of entries in the elecraft FAQ (my second choice)
>
> I will borrow someone else sig. Here and say
>
> Ok back to my hole
>
> a 'kosher ham'
>
> Robert
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]>
> Date: Mon, 6 Aug 2012 21:17:38
> To: Robert Galambos<[hidden email]>
> Cc: <[hidden email]>
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Newbie
>
> Robert,
>
> We did include a lot of material for first-time users, but we had to  
> draw the line somewhere. We're planning to expand the digital section,  
> and we'll always be improving it based on user feedback.
>
> Meanwhile, if there are specific areas you'd like to know more about,  
> just ask. Our reflector is a great place to start. There's also the  
> ARRL Handbook, and other League guides to just about everything.
>
> 73,
> Wayne
> N6KR
>
>
> On Aug 6, 2012, at 8:22 PM, Robert Galambos wrote:
>
>> i am also a newbie (i was the one who asked where the volume control
>> was...boy did i get flack for that one)
>>
>> but i must tell you the manual could be really revamped up, to the  
>> point
>> that newbies can use it. right now, you may think that it is designed
>> with less experienced operators, but , in my opinion falls very  
>> short in
>> that regard.
>>
>> the digital section is lacking on some practical information on where
>> cables should be used where (there are/were a lot of question about  
>> that
>> here and the KX3 reflector that proves my point)
>>
>> while there is more practical information the a ICOM manual, it is not
>> anywhere close to where a new person can read it and use it as solely
>> use it reference material
>>
>> On 12-08-06 9:59 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
>>> Ralph,
>>>
>>> I am going to assume the KX3, but you do need to specify the type  
>>> in the
>>> subject line for the best results.
>>>
>>> The KXBC3 option is not yet available, so you need to "ignore" that  
>>> part
>>> of the manual.  It will do what it says when installed.  Note that  
>>> it is
>>> an option, and not required.  Until that option is available, you  
>>> will
>>> have to remove the batteries for re-charging (also the "clock" will  
>>> be
>>> rest to zero when you power off).
>>>
>>> Newbies are welcome right here - ask away, and you will usually  
>>> find a
>>> response in short order.
>>>
>>> The KX3 manual itself has a lot of "how-to" information in it.  I
>>> suggest you sit down with your KX3 along with the manual and "walk
>>> through" the procedures as you read the manual.
>>>
>>> There is also a Yahoo Group for the KX3, but much of the  
>>> information is
>>> duplicated on this reflector.
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Don W3FPR
>>>
>>> On 8/6/2012 8:03 PM, Ralph Bagwell wrote:
>>>> Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have  
>>>> difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>>>>
>>>> I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for  
>>>> instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear -  
>>>> I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and  
>>>> turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want  
>>>> to hurt the beautiful device .
>>>>
>>>> thanks,
>>>>
>>>> ralph ( xe1hi )
>>>>
>>>>
>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>> 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
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>
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> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

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Re: Newbie

Matt Zilmer
In reply to this post by Ralph Bagwell
Hi Ralph,

The KX3 was developed to appeal to and be used by "newbies" as well as
experienced operators.  The best way to learn the KX3 is with the
manual by your side.  Follow through the manual's instructions slowly
and carefully, taking all the time you need for an initial
understanding of controls.  Your first pass may leave you saturated (a
full head), but don't let this worry you.  As you work through the
manual again (as needed), you'll gain a greater understanding.  It
especially helps to tune in signals and use the recevier controls on
the signal to see what the effect is.

Wayne was very thorough with this owner's manual, and spent quite a
bit of time to make it easy to read and to reference.  This doesn't
mean that you won't have questions; this forum is a good place to post
any questions you might have.  That's its primary purpose in fact.

Don't worry too much about causing damage to the KX3 by controlling it
from the front panel or transmitting, applying power, etc.  The KX3
protects itself quite capably from mistakes a user might make.  When
it comes to opening the enclosure to put in or charge batteries, take
the care with doing it but overall it's like putting batteries in any
piece of equipment.  It seems to be easiest if the rear part of the
enclosure is level on a table top.

It *is* a beautiful device, isn't it?  That said, it's also meant to
be used.  

73,
matt W6NIA


On Mon, 06 Aug 2012 19:03:46 -0500, you wrote:

>Is there a "newbie" section ? I read the manual and still have difficulty with simple operations . ( I just opened the box )
>
>I'm still trying to understand how to charge the batteries  ( for instance ) - I hate to "experiment" on such a nice piece of gear - I'd like absolute detail on "how-to" rather than clicking and turning knobs at almost random to do simple things . I don't want to hurt the beautiful device .
>
>thanks,
>
>ralph ( xe1hi )
>
>
>
>______________________________________________________________
>Elecraft mailing list
>Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
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>
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>Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
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Re: Newbie

Holger Schurig-2
In addition to those advices, you can simply send an e-mail here, e.g.
make the text "Can one of you explain a newbie how to charge the
batteries?" and make the subject line similar, e.g. "[KX3] How to
charge batteries".

I would even send one e-mail per question.


I guess your battery-charging question has already been answered, or?
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