Posts Tagged ‘KX3’
More KX3, iPad and PSK-31 Experimentation
May 8th, 2012 | 
Author: Last week I created a YouTube video to document some experimentation I had completed with the KX3, my iPad and the iOS PSK-31 app called PSKer. This week I made some modifications to my setup. This included adding a USB extension cable and I experimented with the VOX settings of the KX3.
Thank you for watching!
73 de KD0BIK
KX3 on its way?
I opened my mailbox this morning to discover the email that hundreds if not thousands of hams worldwide have been waiting for – a shipping notification from UPS to say that a 5lb package from Elecraft is on its way!
A 5lb package from Elecraft? What could that be? Ah. it must be the KX3 I didn’t order.
That’s right. Didn’t order. I haven’t ordered a KX3! I’m not saying I’m never going to, but I am not even going to think about it until such time as orders are fulfilled off the shelf. At the moment I believe that the lead time for an Elecraft KX3 ordered today is about 4 months. These days I just don’t plan that far ahead.
I forwarded the email to Elecraft Sales in the hope that they can figure out who this notification should really have gone to and why it came to me. But for a brief moment this morning I thought this was going to be my lucky day!
An iPad, PSKer iOS App and KX3 = FUN
As I briefly mentioned in my blog post titled KX3 – The First 24 Hours. I spent a little bit of time experimenting with the iOS App titled PSKer. This experimentation included operating it in an over the air method. Meaning I have no audio cables running between the iPad and the KX3. I’m simply relying on the iPad built-in microphone to pick up the audio signal from the KX3 speaker for receive and using the iPad speakers and the KX3 microphone for transmit. The image below is a snapshot from the PSKReporter website. I’m running 5 watts into a ground mounted Hustler 6BTV. My transmitted audio IMD is –34 as recorded by my KK7UQ IMD Meter in the shack.
Of course, an optimum setup would include some sort of audio interface to directly connect the KX3 and the iPad. While I’m still looking into these options, I’m fairly pleased with the performance in the testing. Also, while I had always envisioned this process to be a bit awkward by having to hold in the PTT mic switch and fumble with typing on the iPad. The KX3 makes this much easier with an XMIT button. I can press the XMIT button on the front of the KX3 and the rig will switch into transmit mode until I press it again. I think this is better than using VOX. All I need to worry about is making sure the microphone is positioned near the iPad speakers and the iPad is near the KX3 speaker. More about the KX3 speaker in just a bit.
While I would not opt to use this setup in the ham shack. I’m thinking this will be perfect for SOTA activations. Again, I think a direct cable solution is optimum, I’ve not seen any schematics or plans anyone has designed to date. At a minimum I believe the iPad needs to receive audio from the KX3 via a cable. During the maiden SOTA activation for the KX3, I realized just how weak the KX3 speaker is in an outdoor environment.
With a light breeze and the KX3 sitting on a foam pad on the ground, I had difficulty hearing stations on SSB. I had to use my ear buds and even those proved to lack the quality when connected to the KX3 (as compared to my 817). Of course, what do you expect with a $2 pair of cheap ear buds. I will look into other alternatives before the next activation.
Final comment on the KX3 speaker. I don’t fault Elecraft. As I mentioned in my blog post titled KX3 – The first 24 hours, Elecraft has stated from the beginning that the quality of the built-in speaker will be compromised due to size and recommended either external speakers or earphones/headphones when using in a noisy environment. I’ve done a little research on the Chill Pill mobile speakers. These have been discussed on the Elecraft Yahoo reflector with mostly positive reviews. Weighing in at a mere 7 ounces, they won’t break my back or take up much room in my pack.
I did some testing earlier to see if I could feed audio from the KX3 into the iPad and the PSKer app. The picture below is the setup I used. The white piece is the iPad Camera Connection kit. This connects to the bottom port on the iPad and provides a standard USB connection. Connected to this (via USB) is a Plantronics USB soundcard adapter. I plugged a short stereo patch cable into the KX3 headphone jack and the other end into the microphone input of the Plantronics USB adapter. I connected a second stereo cable from the KX3 mic jack and the other end to the headphone jack on the USB adapter.This does work. But….
The weak link in this is the connection at the iPad. The iPad Camera Connection kit (the white piece) with the added length (approx. 3 inches) of the Plantronics USB soundcard device makes it hard to keep it all plugged into the iPad. On a SOTA activation I am sitting on the ground and will have the iPad in my lap. I can easily see where the connector will get unplugged. But as you can tell it does work. In the picture below I have my iPad running the PSKer App connected to the Elecraft KX3 via the Apple iPad Camera kit and the Plantronics USB sound card device.
I recently created a YouTube video where I discussed this setup and the items I used to connect the iPad to the KX3. I’m going to continue to experiment with other options and will blog about these findings at a later date. You can watch the video below.
Until next time…
73 de KD0BIK
KX3–The first 24 hours
As previously mentioned, my KX3 shipped from the Elecraft factory on Tuesday afternoon and was delivered to me in Denver, Colorado via USPS Priority Mail Service. I’ve gotta say for the price, USPS Priority service is the best way to go in most cases. Of course this blog post is not about shipping services and I’ll move on.
Over the past couple of weeks I’ve seen some awesome Youtube videos from hams who have received their new KX3. I see no reason to re-invent the wheel, just search Youtube for Elecraft KX3 and you’ll find these.
My Elecraft KX3 is serial number 57. Perhaps s/n 59 would have been cool, but I’m happy nonetheless. I spent a little bit of time with my KX3 the first evening. I took the time to attach Anderson Powerpoles onto the supplied power cable. I adjusted the tilt legs on the back. Which by the way, in recent days I’ve noticed a lot of discussion on the Yahoo KX3 reflector dedicated to the discussion of the tilt legs. I’ve seen no issues with any binding of the thumb screws. You just need to gently loosen the thumbscrew, lower the tilt leg into position and then re-tighten the thumbscrew. Repeat for the other side. It really is that simple.
I grabbed a short coax jumper and connected the KX3 to my Hustler 6BTV. I clicked the band switch until the KX3 was in the 40m band and turned the VFO. While doing so I read through the manual and tried out many of the features of this remarkable radio.
For the most part, my KX3 will be used for SOTA or Summits On The Air and will replace my Yaesu FT-817. At this time, I’m not planning to purchase the Elecraft amplifier which would most certainly turn this little radio into a nice shack rig. I already own a Yaesu FT-950 which I use primarily for SSB and run digital modes from my Yaesu FT-897. I’m happy with what both of these transceivers do for me in the ham shack.
In all honesty, I was also pleased with my Yaesu FT-817 for field use. I purchased it new about 4 years ago and it’s been a trusty companion for both SOTA activations as well as general portable use. So why purchase the Elecraft KX3?
Like many of you, I began hearing about the KX3 around Dayton 2011. I watched the videos and did some research into Elecraft. Everything I read, heard and watched pointed to the KX3 being a fantastic radio. Then in the fall of 2011, I was bitten by the SOTA bug. Chasing quickly turned into activating and now I’m lucky to have the opportunity to assist one of the coolest SOTA activators I know. Of course, I’m talking about Steve Galchutt wG0AT. Steve appointed me as the Central Colorado regional manager. My role is to promote the Summits On the Air program as well as amateur radio. To date, I’ve conducted three face to face SOTA presentations to local amateur radio clubs in the greater Denver area. I’ve conducted one via Skype to a club in Washington state and I have many more lined up. This opportunity has truly allowed me to broaden my Elmer opportunities beyond my blogging and podcasting efforts. Thank you Steve.
So as I learned more, I realized the KX3 would become a much better SOTA performer for me than the 817. Allow me to point out a few of the differences.
Weight – Advantage KX3
My Yaesu FT-817 weighs in at a little over 2.5 pounds. This includes the internal FNB-85 9.6v battery pack.
The KX3 with 8 AA batteries weighs in slightly less than 2 pounds. While I don’t plan to operate the KX3 solely on internal power, I may not install internal batteries. Note: I didn’t purchase the optional KXBC3 charger.
Size – Advantage KX3
The size differences between the 817 and KX3 are minimal. The 817 measures in at 7 3/4 x 5 1/2 x 1 1/2 inches. The KX3 is much more compact with measurements of 8 x 3 1/2 x 2 3/4. Unfortunately, the comparisons I did a few weeks ago with my 2×4 prototype don’t match real KX3 comparisons. I can still use the Lowepro Apex bag but will not pack the battery pack in side.
Durability and Ruggedness – Advantage 817
I’ll admit this was one category I thought long and hard about. The Yaesu FT-817 is a rugged little radio just like it’s big brother the FT-897. I handle all my gear with care, but accidents do happen and certainly portable operations increase this chance greatly.
Now please don’t confuse this with poor construction or design. The KX3 design just has a larger control panel footprint. This is great and what leads to my next category. However, a little more surface area to get damaged from an accidental drop or other mishap. I’ll just be extra careful.
LCD Display and Control Panel– Advantage KX3
I’m 45, will turn 46 in October. I’ve been using reading glasses for the past 4-5 years. Each year my prescription is bumped up a little. I’m to the point where I can’t read anything without either holding it at arms length away from me or making sure I have my reading glasses with me.
The LCD display on the 817 is a tiny 1.5 x 1.0 (rough measurement) screen. However, the LCD on the KX3 is 4.75 x 1.25. I can read the frequency or any of the other items without my reading glasses.
Portability and SOTA Readiness – Advantage KX3
While the Yaesu FT-817 is an all mode transceiver including HF, VHF and UHF operations as compared to the KX3 which today is HF/50MHz only (internal 2m module coming soon). The lack of 2m or 70cm operations does not impact me and the way I will use the rig. I carry the Yaesu VX8 for APRS tracking and will use that radio for any V/UHF operations.
Speaker Audio Output – Advantage 817
Elecraft has stated from the beginning that headphones or external speakers would be a must for a noisy environment. The speaker in the KX3 is tiny and I honestly don’t see how this could have been avoided. However, I view this as a non-issue. I use a lightweight pair of over-the-ear ear buds for SOTA activations. This is important as in windy conditions or even noisy band conditions, a headset or ear buds will help.
Other Features and Functionality – Advantage KX3
I’ve truly enjoyed operating QRP and have honestly gained much more respect for QRP operations in general since being active in SOTA. Working DX from on top of Mt. Herman (W0/FR-063) opened my eyes to what a little bit of power and a properly tuned antenna can accomplish.
While the KX3 does offer extra transmit power from the 817, I will keep it set at 5 watts and only increase to 10 or 12w when needed. In addition, while I’ve never packed my LDG Z-100 Auto tuner on a SOTA trip, I did order the internal ATU in the KX3. However, I firmly believe a successful SOTA activation starts with a properly tuned antenna and will continue to stick to that process.
The VFO knob is most certainly a major difference between the KX3 and 817. You can really crank up or down the bands with much greater precision and speed on the KX3. In addition, the KX3 allows for direct frequency entry. This makes easy work of tuning up and down the bands.
Of course, another feature set that completely blows the 817 out of the water is the ability for the KX3 to decode PSK/RTTY and CW signals. I’ve played around with this and the PSK decode is spot on. The only problem is watching the text. The text is displayed in an 1.5 x .5 inch area of the LCD screen. It goes by pretty quick. I’m experimenting (with much success) using the PSKer iOS app. I plan to blog soon about this testing.
In closing, and in all fairness to the Yaesu FT-817, the 817 is a great little SOTA rig. There are many SOTA activators and other portable enthusiasts who will continue to benefit from the performance the 817 can deliver. Just how much improved performance I’ll gain from the KX3 on a typical SOTA activation has yet to be seen. I plan to correct this and schedule a SOTA activation in the near future.
Until next time…
73 de KD0BIK
KX3 Delivery Day
On Tuesday afternoon, I received the email notification that many of my fellow amateurs are waiting for. That email of course was from Elecraft and the subject line read “Package Shipped to You”.
I ordered my Elecraft KX3 within 30 minutes of the email notification which was sent out on 27 December (or 28 December UTC time). I can’t remember ever ordering anything in “pre-order” fashion prior to the KX3. Although within a few weeks of ordering the KX3, I did submit another pre-order for the Raspberry Pi.
Anyway, if you are familiar with the KX3 order and wait process, then you know initially it was expected to begin shipping in late February or early March. This date slipped and slipped another time or two. However, about three weeks ago, we began seeing the first of the factory build units shipping out.
I have worked in the IT industry for over 20 years. I’ve worked for both hardware and software vendors and I’ve personally seen products rushed out of the door and felt the impact as a result. I’ve also been on the other side and purchased products which were not ready for prime time.
While no one wants to wait, I’m extremely impressed with what I have seen from the Elecraft company regarding the release of the KX3. Certainly in the amateur radio transceiver category, you won’t see the kind of interaction between company and customer like we are experiencing with Elecraft. The other element I’m impressed with is the way Elecraft listens to their Customers and as a result, we’ve seen many changes go into the KX3 and some have even been in the last 7-10 days. WOW!
So as I write this, I just checked USPS tracking and my KX3 left San Jose on Tuesday evening and arrived and was processed through the Denver USPS sorting facility. This should mean, Bob (my mailman) will have a box to deliver to my QTH on Thursday. Again WOW!
I will take pictures and perhaps video. I may not be as lucky as one ham yesterday who actually photographed his KX3 box while still in the hands of his mailman. In any event, there has already been a few videos showing the unboxing and operation of the KX3. I may not be able to do anything “original” but will at the very least try to get a little footage.
Finally, I’m sure everyone wants to know the burning question of when will my KX3 make her maiden SOTA voyage? I would truly love to say it will be this weekend. Perhaps it will be. Also, next weekend is the QRPTTF Contest. I blogged about the QRP To The Field contest earlier in the week and mentioned it was joining forces with SOTA. While QRPTTF is a CW contest (I’m still struggling to gain altitude with this endeavor) I did feel it would still be worthwhile to activate a SOTA summit on SSB.
Of course, some might say….Why not do both weekends? I’d love that! If you’ve been following my blog you also know I’m working most every weekend on the new ham shack. With drywall now covering the walls and ceiling, we have reached the tape, mud and sanding phase. As someone who suffers from dust allergies, I think I’d rather just push through this phase as quickly as possible. This will also make the XYL happy as dust from the construction zone has reached just about every point in the house. It will continue to get worse until this is completed.
Well that is about all the news I have for now. Expect another blog posting in the next few days once I have my KX3 in hand.
Until next time…
73 de KD0BIK
So what does a KX3 look like on the inside?
Thanks to K7TRY, now we know!
Hopefully, I will be seeing this for myself in just a few short weeks!
72 de Larry W2LJ
