Elecraft

Will there be a K4

Classic

List

Threaded

91 messages Options

12345

hbjr

Re: Will there be a K4

160 – 440 would be awesome! Satellite work in one box.

An all mode 2m, 220, 440, 23cm rig would also be nice – 100 watts.

Hank
K4HYJ

From: Bill Johnson
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2019 8:30 PM
To: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft; Elecraft list
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Will there be a K4

All band 160-440+ 6"x9x4" with built in tuner and portable internal supply @25-30 watts out?! I'll take two! Oh and your software and controls. I am sure you and wayne can do it!

73,

Bill
K9YEQ

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email] <[hidden email]> On Behalf Of Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2019 7:15 PM
To: Elecraft list <[hidden email]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Will there be a K4

Inquiring minds want to know:
What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?

Eric
elecraft.com

______________________________________________________________
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

kevinr@coho.net

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ

Hi Eric,

    I think one feature would be a built in single board computer. One
with enough horse power to run a Linux OS. It needs a 1000 baseT
connection to the outside world so it can act as another server on your
home network. The advantage being you could write all the necessary
drivers from the radio to the network in house. Then let independent
developers write code which links between their code on the K4 and their
code on your desktop.

Since there are ever more digital modes Elecraft can be on the forefront
by offering high level APIs for external development. Offloading some of
the work from Elecraft's standard mix of MCUs would allow you more
freedom to solve more problems.

    Just a random thought while cooking,

       73, Kevin. KD5ONS

_

On 3/24/19 5:14 PM, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:

> Inquiring minds want to know:
> What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?
>
> Eric
> elecraft.com
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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

NK7Z

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ

I should have seen that coming... :)

73s and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Technical Specialist
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL OOC for Oregon

On 3/24/19 5:10 PM, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:

> SP3 :-)
>
> Eric
> elecraft.com <http://elecraft.com>
> ---
> Sent from my iPhone 6S
>
> On Mar 24, 2019, at 4:41 PM, Dave Cole (NK7Z) <[hidden email]
> <mailto:[hidden email]>> wrote:
>
>> Jim,
>> Have you found a good speaker for the K3? If so, which one is it?
>>
>> 73s and thanks,
>> Dave (NK7Z)

NK7Z

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Don Wilhelm

I have a pair of those... Think I'll drag them out! Thanks!

73s and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Technical Specialist
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL OOC for Oregon

On 3/24/19 5:16 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:

> Dave,
>
> Shortly after I got the K3 and well before the SP3 was introduced, I
> found a pair of Radio Shack Minimus speakers in black which have worked
> well with my K3. I picked them up at a 2nd hand store for $5, so keep
> your eyes open for small, efficient, unpowered "Hi-Fi" speakers at a
> bargain price. Pawn shops and 2nd hand stores often have things of that
> nature.
> Or use a pair of the SP3 speakers for a complete and matching K-Line
> station.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 3/24/2019 7:41 PM, Dave Cole (NK7Z) wrote:
>> Jim,
>> Have you found a good speaker for the K3? If so, which one is it?
>>

Gerry Hull

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Ronnie Hull

Not discussed here is the fact that Elecraft is foremost a business. A
first rule of business is don’t announce new products if you have current
products to sell. Announcing a K4 while there are K3s to sell would kill
K3s sales.

That said, Elecraft would not remain in business if they were not
innovating and working on new products.

Loose lips sink ships.

I’m happy to wait for new product announcements when they come.

Bravo to all the Elecraft team for your quality in both product and
business strategy.

73,

Gerry W1VE

On Sun, Mar 24, 2019 at 1:16 PM <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Before I spend money on a K3S, I’m just curious.. is a K4 in the planning
> stages? I bought my K3 and unpackaged it and just days later the K3S was
> announced. I was livid.. LOL
>
> so.. what say Elecraft?
>
> Ronnie W5SUM
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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

--
Gerry Hull, W1VE Hancock, NH USA
Member: ARRL, YCCC, YCCCN, CW Ops
[hidden email] ph: 1-617-CW-SPARK (find me)
______________________________________________________________
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

Jim Brown-10

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by NK7Z

On 3/24/2019 4:41 PM, Dave Cole (NK7Z) wrote:
> Have you found a good speaker for the K3? If so, which one is it?

For any serious operating, I always use headphones. Speakers are for
casual monitoring. If I were to recommend a speaker, it would be: 1)for
one with very smooth frequency response between 400 Hz and 5 kHz; 2) 4
ohm impedance; 3) a small diaphragm, and 4) high voltage sensitivity.

Contrary to popular misconceptions, wider range response is not a bad
thing.Smooth response in the speech region is important. 4 ohm impedance
means it will receive more power from the K3. A smaller diaphragm
provides smoother off-axis frequency response, high voltage sensitivity
means it will be louder. BUT -- #3 and #4 are conflicting design specs
-- smaller diaphragms have lower voltage sensitivity.

I've used small hi-fi and pro loudspeakers and like the sound, but they
burn too much space on my operating desk now that I have three video
monitors (two P3s, and an extension of the computer's desktop). I
replaced them with little black cubes a few inches that I bought as a
box of 10 at a Chicago area hamfest about 15 years ago. They're plenty
good enough for my needs. I also use them in the car for my
dual-transceiver FM rig, strapped to the two posts on my headrest (two
of them so that I can tell which transceiver the audio is coming from).

73, Jim K9YC

______________________________________________________________
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

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Ronnie Hull

I don’t know about a future ‘K4’, but I do know that when Wayne [et al] put your minds to designing a ‘KX4’, you might ponder a high res (possibly colour) display which could be remapped at will in firmware updates and be capable of displaying a spectral waterfall and more than 7 characters of text copy (say, 80 perhaps? Like my QRPworks SideCar+ has, linked via RS232 to my KX2). I imagine what my KX-line radio would be like were the functionality of the SideKar bundled into it (to wit the 80-char display and USB/2.4GHz querty kbd connectivity). Oh, and a high res waterfall.

I do wish my KX2 had quadrature output at times; however, I am aware of the compromises which had to be made to shrink it down (such as pin diode switching instead of MOS FET switching, etc), and as a portable CW operator I don’t miss the fancy stuff as much as some might. You were asking us to imagine the penultimate next Elecraft, however, so here were my two cents. The design refinements and attention to subtle detail already present in my current elegantly crafted radio make me happy every time I use it. Tnx ^_^

Excellent longform interview wid u two on Hamnation btw ! FB es tnx = 72 CUL etc de KX2CW ..

~Joan
“a Watt is a Lot”

Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra, said Piglet.
Shaka, when the walls fell, said Pooh.

> On Mar 24, 2019, at 17:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> Inquiring minds want to know:
> What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?
>
> Eric
> elecraft.com
>
>
______________________________________________________________
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

Martin Sole-3

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ

Well since you asked and made this sort of official, here's a few
things, though in no particular order of merit:

Integrated 7” (or bigger) panadaptor with touch screen.

‘Proper’ band stacking registers.

Equal sized vfo knobs for A and B.

Individual mode buttons.

AGC, NB, NR all with front panel controls adjustable on the fly.

More digital mode integration, built in FT8 with up-gradable software as
digi modes develop.

Integrated PSU for 100-250 Vac.

50V minimum PA.

Ground Breaking earth shattering TX IMD.

Using the built in touch screen full descriptive menu.

Bigger rotary controls with more space.

RF performance equal to or better than best of the best.

Modular design with bare bones to fully loaded capability.

PA options from 10 to 500 watts fully integrated with ATU (KPA500/KAT500).

I/Q output.

Proper base station radio without concern for portability (K3S is
already the leader there).

More extensive API giving ability to do literally everything the radio
can do from a computer.

Removeable head so the base radio can be remoted and the control head
used from where you need to be.

More ‘And’, less ‘Either or’ (Mic/Line selection level etc).

Martin, HS0ZED

On 25/03/2019 07:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:

Vic Rosenthal

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ

1. A bitmapped display, so that it could be updated with the software,
and would support soft keys.

2. A touch screen. Whether to go this way is a hard call. Many operators
hate them. But given that there are many good reasons to keep the same
form factor, it gets harder and harder to cram all the functionality
into the small space available. A touch screen could completely
reconfigure itself when you change modes. There is the possibility of
providing a configuration utility that would let the operator develop
his/her own screens. I would never have to look at the XFIL button
again. We could get rid of the touch/hold interface, which is still
error-prone for me after decades.

3. A bus/backplane architecture. It would permit almost total hardware
upgradeability. The current K3 goes in this direction, but not far
enough. But use gold pins.

4. The CW Pitch adjustment should not produce a tone, but should let you
hear normal signals.

5. NB/NR performance could be improved over the K3/K3S. (I haven't tried
the KX3/KX2).

6. Please do NOT build in firmware functionality for modes like FT8. On
the other hand, a bus/backplane arrangement could allow the operator to
plug in a single board Windows or Linux computer that could be used for
external software for digital modes or logging or countless other things.

73,
Victor, 4X6GP
Rehovot, Israel
Formerly K2VCO
CWops no. 5
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/
On 25 Mar 2019 02:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:
> Inquiring minds want to know:
> What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?
>
> Eric
> elecraft.com

______________________________________________________________
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

Martin Sole-3

Re: Will there be a K4

How many can they sell is probably a big question.

I would suggest there are 3 main groups of amateur radio buyers:

1. Will always buy the newest greatest Elecraft (Kool Aid guys)
2. Already have a K3(S) whatever, fully loaded, good enough, not looking
to buy new.
3. Wouldn't buy K3S because...

Group one will already sign up for it, probably pre-ordering as is the
Elecraft way. Elecraft only has to change the badge for this group.

Group two are not going to buy, at least some anyway, others may be
convinced to move from group two if there is enough of a differential
with existing products.

Group three is the probably the primary target and to do this it needs
to be a product that does what previous products have not, to some
greater or lesser degree.

With a fully flexible, up-gradable, architecture such a product needs to
start at a price where it looks attractive against similar spec
competition. A premium added for its ability to be turned into a top
tier radio. At the high end for the fully loaded gold plated edition I
thing nobody has gone there yet. FT9000/IC7851/Flex6700M/Hilberling?
really they only were bigger fatter radios $15k seems possible.

Martin,HS0ZED

______________________________________________________________
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

WA2SI

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Gerry Hull

I'm in the same boat with a "slush fund" specifically created for a loaded CW-optimized K3S. However, two factors keep me from pulling the trigger on that purchase. The main subject re. the possibility of a K4 and the fact that my K2/100 performs so darn well.

Additionally, I personally find the amber display a tad tough on these old eyes. As minor as it sounds, I might have purchased a new K3S last year upon fund maturity had a green display been an option.

I purchased A Yaesu FT-991A for VHF/UHF SSB work some months ago. On HF, the K2/100 still "cleans it's clock!" One time, I tried to locate a DX station spotted on the cluster but couldn't hear it. Removed the PL-259 from the FT-991A and moved it directly over to the K2/100 and voilà, there it was. Weak but readable, and subsequently wrkd. Not too shabby for an almost-20 yr. old rig.

Vy 73 de Bert
WA2SI
______________________________________________________________
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

stengrevics

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Martin Sole-3

I would add to that: Significantly improved noise blanking and noise reduction.

John
WA1EAZ

> On Mar 25, 2019, at 1:08 AM, Martin Sole <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> Well since you asked and made this sort of official, here's a few things, though in no particular order of merit:
>
> Integrated 7” (or bigger) panadaptor with touch screen.
>
> ‘Proper’ band stacking registers.
>
> Equal sized vfo knobs for A and B.
>
> Individual mode buttons.
>
> AGC, NB, NR all with front panel controls adjustable on the fly.
>
> More digital mode integration, built in FT8 with up-gradable software as digi modes develop.
>
> Integrated PSU for 100-250 Vac.
>
> 50V minimum PA.
>
> Ground Breaking earth shattering TX IMD.
>
> Using the built in touch screen full descriptive menu.
>
> Bigger rotary controls with more space.
>
> RF performance equal to or better than best of the best.
>
> Modular design with bare bones to fully loaded capability.
>
> PA options from 10 to 500 watts fully integrated with ATU (KPA500/KAT500).
>
> I/Q output.
>
> Proper base station radio without concern for portability (K3S is already the leader there).
>
> More extensive API giving ability to do literally everything the radio can do from a computer.
>
> Removeable head so the base radio can be remoted and the control head used from where you need to be.
>
> More ‘And’, less ‘Either or’ (Mic/Line selection level etc).
>
>
> Martin, HS0ZED
>
>
>
>
> On 25/03/2019 07:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:
>> Inquiring minds want to know:
>> What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?
>>
>> Eric
>> elecraft.com
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> 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

Andy McMullin

Re: Will there be a K4

And my little add — VHF/UHF

Andy
G8TQH

> On 25 Mar 2019, at 11:30, John Stengrevics <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> I would add to that: Significantly improved noise blanking and noise reduction.
>
> John
> WA1EAZ
>
>> On Mar 25, 2019, at 1:08 AM, Martin Sole <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>
>> Well since you asked and made this sort of official, here's a few things, though in no particular order of merit:
>>
>> Integrated 7” (or bigger) panadaptor with touch screen.
>>
>> ‘Proper’ band stacking registers.
>>
>> Equal sized vfo knobs for A and B.
>>
>> Individual mode buttons.
>>
>> AGC, NB, NR all with front panel controls adjustable on the fly.
>>
>> More digital mode integration, built in FT8 with up-gradable software as digi modes develop.
>>
>> Integrated PSU for 100-250 Vac.
>>
>> 50V minimum PA.
>>
>> Ground Breaking earth shattering TX IMD.
>>
>> Using the built in touch screen full descriptive menu.
>>
>> Bigger rotary controls with more space.
>>
>> RF performance equal to or better than best of the best.
>>
>> Modular design with bare bones to fully loaded capability.
>>
>> PA options from 10 to 500 watts fully integrated with ATU (KPA500/KAT500).
>>
>> I/Q output.
>>
>> Proper base station radio without concern for portability (K3S is already the leader there).
>>
>> More extensive API giving ability to do literally everything the radio can do from a computer.
>>
>> Removeable head so the base radio can be remoted and the control head used from where you need to be.
>>
>> More ‘And’, less ‘Either or’ (Mic/Line selection level etc).
>>
>>
>> Martin, HS0ZED
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On 25/03/2019 07:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:
>>> Inquiring minds want to know:
>>> What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?
>>>
>>> Eric
>>> elecraft.com
>>>
>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>> 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

hdv

Re: Will there be a K4

My addition:Better/autonomous RS232/USB "broadcasting" of settings. (with menu selection of catagories)Looping of DVR messages with amount or time control73 HenkPA0CVerzonden vanaf mijn Samsung Galaxy-smartphone.
-------- Oorspronkelijk bericht --------Van: Andy McMullin <[hidden email]> Datum: 25-03-19 12:33 (GMT+01:00) Aan: John Stengrevics <[hidden email]> Cc: [hidden email], Martin Sole <[hidden email]> Onderwerp: Re: [Elecraft] Will there be a K4 And my little add — VHF/UHFAndyG8TQH> On 25 Mar 2019, at 11:30, John Stengrevics <[hidden email]> wrote:> > I would add to that: Significantly improved noise blanking and noise reduction.> > John> WA1EAZ> >> On Mar 25, 2019, at 1:08 AM, Martin Sole <[hidden email]> wrote:>> >> Well since you asked and made this sort of official, here's a few things, though in no particular order of merit:>> >> Integrated 7” (or bigger) panadaptor with touch screen.>> >> ‘Proper’ band stacking registers.>> >> Equal sized vfo knobs for A and B.>> >> Individual mode buttons.>> >> AGC, NB, NR all with front panel controls adjustable on the fly.>> >> More digital mode integration, built in FT8 with up-gradable software as digi modes develop.>> >> Integrated PSU for 100-250 Vac.>> >> 50V minimum PA.>> >> Ground Breaking earth shattering TX IMD.>> >> Using the built in touch screen full descriptive menu.>> >> Bigger rotary controls with more space.>> >> RF performance equal to or better than best of the best.>> >> Modular design with bare bones to fully loaded capability.>> >> PA options from 10 to 500 watts fully integrated with ATU (KPA500/KAT500).>> >> I/Q output.>> >> Proper base station radio without concern for portability (K3S is already the leader there).>> >> More extensive API giving ability to do literally everything the radio can do from a computer.>> >> Removeable head so the base radio can be remoted and the control head used from where you need to be.>> >> More ‘And’, less ‘Either or’ (Mic/Line selection level etc).>> >> >> Martin, HS0ZED>> >> >> >> >> On 25/03/2019 07:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:>>> Inquiring minds want to know:>>> What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?>>> >>> Eric>>> elecraft.com>>> >>> ______________________________________________________________>>> 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______________________________________________________________Elecraft mailing listHome: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraftHelp: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htmPost: mailto:[hidden email] list hosted by: http://www.qsl.netPlease 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

Mike Markowski-2

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Martin Sole-3

Eric,

On the computer side of things, how about:

1. Ethernet, socket-based communication with rig. Imagine AUTO INFO
replies direct to IP/port! No more clashing programs.
2. Everything controllable by commands (like RF gain).
3. Info directly gettable. E.g., no need to 'decode' display.
4. State directly settable. No need to emulate series of button pushes.
5. Pixel based display can convey much info when used with care. (Graphs,
block diagram showing what is affected by a control. Things like, but
better & more compact than, my old K2DSP code:
http://udel.edu/~mm/ham/elecraft/k2filter/ )

73,
Mike ab3ap

On 25/03/2019 07:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:
> > Inquiring minds want to know:
> > What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?
> >
> > Eric
> > elecraft.com
>
>
______________________________________________________________
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

Gordon LaPoint-2

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Eric Swartz - WA6HHQ

I would love an SDR (I have an ANAN-10e) with a front panel and the
software for the computer, best of both worlds. I have an Apache Labs
ANAN-7000 DLE Mk2 (without computer) on order, but would love to replace
that with the K4, that is full SDR with dual ADC's like the ANAN-7000.

I have a K2(10Watt) and a K3 (updated, but not USB module), KPA/KAP 500
combo and will keep all of the Elecraft equipment.

I love the bandscope that I can click on with the mouse and tune the
radio to a signal, the K4 needs a band scope on the computer screen when
used with a computer!

PureSignal on TX is now a must, get ahead of everyone, except the Apache
Labs radios.

Better noise reduction, (even the ANAN-10e has better)

CW as good as the K3, or better.

That is a good start, lets see what others come up with.

Gordon - N1MGO (long time K3 user)

On 3/24/19 8:14 PM, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:

--
Gordon - N1MGO

______________________________________________________________
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

rich hurd WC3T

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Martin Sole-3

"integrated FT8" will never happen. If I'm not mistaken, FT8 is open
source and incorporating that software with its licensing requirements
could expose Elecraft to all sorts of exposure; as their software is NOT
open-source.

At least I believe I read that somewhere. That's my belief. Sort of
the same reason HRD or other licensed, closed-source apps do not
incorporate FT8 or any of those derivatives into their software. They
simply can't.

On Mon, Mar 25, 2019 at 1:08 AM Martin Sole <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Well since you asked and made this sort of official, here's a few
> things, though in no particular order of merit:
>
> Integrated 7” (or bigger) panadaptor with touch screen.
>
> ‘Proper’ band stacking registers.
>
> Equal sized vfo knobs for A and B.
>
> Individual mode buttons.
>
> AGC, NB, NR all with front panel controls adjustable on the fly.
>
> More digital mode integration, built in FT8 with up-gradable software as
> digi modes develop.
>
> Integrated PSU for 100-250 Vac.
>
> 50V minimum PA.
>
> Ground Breaking earth shattering TX IMD.
>
> Using the built in touch screen full descriptive menu.
>
> Bigger rotary controls with more space.
>
> RF performance equal to or better than best of the best.
>
> Modular design with bare bones to fully loaded capability.
>
> PA options from 10 to 500 watts fully integrated with ATU (KPA500/KAT500).
>
> I/Q output.
>
> Proper base station radio without concern for portability (K3S is
> already the leader there).
>
> More extensive API giving ability to do literally everything the radio
> can do from a computer.
>
> Removeable head so the base radio can be remoted and the control head
> used from where you need to be.
>
> More ‘And’, less ‘Either or’ (Mic/Line selection level etc).
>
>
> Martin, HS0ZED
>
>
>
>
> On 25/03/2019 07:14, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote:
> > Inquiring minds want to know:
> > What would you all like to see as a “K4” ?
> >
> > Eric
> > elecraft.com
> >
> > ______________________________________________________________
> > 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

--
72,
Rich Hurd / WC3T / DMR: 3142737
Northampton County RACES, EPA-ARRL Public Information Officer for Scouting
Latitude: 40.761621 Longitude: -75.288988 (40°45.68' N 75°17.33' W) Grid:
*FN20is*
______________________________________________________________
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

NJ8M

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Martin Sole-3

SO2R with out ground loop problems ..or Rock solid SO2R solution...for k3s
or other radios. I have the MK2R+ and I want a better solution.

On Mon, Mar 25, 2019, 01:08 Martin Sole <[hidden email]> wrote:

K8TE

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Doug Person-5

I will visit a friend to operate his station again for the CQ WW WPX SSB
Contest this coming weekend. We use these opportunities to motivate and
train new contesters. His main rig is an IC-7610. I will bring my KPA1500
to substitute for his 600 Watt amplifier and tuner since neither provides
the kind of integration the K-Line can.

I greatly prefer operating my K3/P3 over the IC-7610! The P3 is a far
better panadaptor than the IC-7610's! The K3's user interface is much
simpler and more effective to operate than the IC-7610's. BTW, this his the
second IC-7610 in my friend's shack as the first failed 46+ times during
last November's ARRL SS-SSB Contest (we may have missed counting some).
Icom had the radio for several weeks and found no trouble. I give them
credit for replacing it after the November debacle, no questions asked. The
replacement didn't fail during the ARRL DX-SSB Contest in February.

The K4, when it comes, I assert, will not be about aesthetics, but
performance and features serious hams want. If you haven't been paying
attention, a significant number of those hams have replaced their K3S radios
with the Flex 6700. Their feature set and performance have set a standard
the K4 will need to excede. I am confident it will.

The K3S is definitely NOT "dated" with regard to performance. Check out Rob
Sherwood's, NC0B, receiver performance listing:
http://www.sherweng.com/table.html. The K3S is #2 for transceivers with the
upgraded K3 immediately behind it. Elecraft's challenge is to provide a
significant improvement in performance which depends upon both hardware and
engineering. That is more difficult than ever before. The K3 was a
game-changer. I suspect we won't see a K4 until it too can change the game.

I am amused by some of the Luddite comments regarding touch screens and
computer interfacing. Yes, the K3S is an awesome stand-alone rig and the
K-Line abely performs without a computer in sight. However, most of us have
progressed from contesting and DX'ing using paper and pen. Don't use a
computer if you don't want, but don't knock the many advantages a computer
in the shack provides. After all, it is 2019. Read your equipment manuals,
get KE7X's books, and see what else you can do with your Elecraft gear.
Most of all, have fun.

I recall watching the KPA1500 poster go up on the wall at the IDXC in
Visalia. I look forward to seeing the K4 poster there or in Xenia! After
all, it's just my kids' inheritance I'm spending and enjoying.

73, Bill, K8TE

--
Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/
______________________________________________________________
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

NK7Z

Re: Will there be a K4

In reply to this post by Jim Brown-10

Hi Jim,
Thanks for the detailed response!

73s and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Technical Specialist
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL OOC for Oregon

On 3/24/19 7:54 PM, Jim Brown wrote:

> On 3/24/2019 4:41 PM, Dave Cole (NK7Z) wrote:
>> Have you found a good speaker for the K3? If so, which one is it?
>
> For any serious operating, I always use headphones. Speakers are for
> casual monitoring. If I were to recommend a speaker, it would be: 1)for
> one with very smooth frequency response between 400 Hz and 5 kHz; 2) 4
> ohm impedance; 3) a small diaphragm, and 4) high voltage sensitivity.
>
> Contrary to popular misconceptions, wider range response is not a bad
> thing.Smooth response in the speech region is important. 4 ohm impedance
> means it will receive more power from the K3. A smaller diaphragm
> provides smoother off-axis frequency response, high voltage sensitivity
> means it will be louder. BUT -- #3 and #4 are conflicting design specs
> -- smaller diaphragms have lower voltage sensitivity.
>
> I've used small hi-fi and pro loudspeakers and like the sound, but they
> burn too much space on my operating desk now that I have three video
> monitors (two P3s, and an extension of the computer's desktop). I
> replaced them with little black cubes a few inches that I bought as a
> box of 10 at a Chicago area hamfest about 15 years ago. They're plenty
> good enough for my needs. I also use them in the car for my
> dual-transceiver FM rig, strapped to the two posts on my headrest (two
> of them so that I can tell which transceiver the audio is coming from).
>
> 73, Jim K9YC
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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

12345