[Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?

[STEPHEN W BANKS]

Hi Everyone,

With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.)

The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!)

I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable.

I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time.

I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your comments.

Thanks and 73 to all...

Steve Banks
K0PQ

[Leo Bricker K5LDB]

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Hi Everyone,
With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess?
Thanks and 73 to all...
Steve Banks
K0PQ

I'm a really want to be an owner when the piggy bank allows prospect
with no contesting interest, at least to this point. I just want it
because it's the best radio available. I'll probably get the piggy bank
ready just about in time to order a K5.

[R. Kevin Stover]

My personal preference is to buy the best receiver you can afford no
matter what your operating preference is. The K3 is it.
Ducie island is going to be a good test of the K3.

- --
R. Kevin Stover, AC?H

[Simon Brown (HB9DRV)]

I have only used it in RX since it arrived - it is a great receiver, a
pleasure to use.

----- Original Message -----

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are
as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to
contesters.

[drewko1 at verizon.net ()]

Steve,

I will be using the K3 for pretty much only CW and SWL. Perhaps a
little PSK.

I like some small CW contests, but am not a contester by any means.

I'll be sticking with the 10 watt version; my K2 has shown that that
is sufficient power for me. Will also only have a very basic filter
set.

I did order the ATU; the K2 spoiled me with that. My antennas are
endfed wire and attic dipoles.

Too much rig for my limited needs? Maybe, but I'm pretty sure I'll get
my money's worth in enjoyment.

73,
Drew
AF2Z

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Hi Everyone,
With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.)
The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!)
I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable.
I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time.
I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your comments.
Thanks and 73 to all...
Steve Banks
K0PQ

[Ed Rodriguez]

K3 will be used for mostly HF cw contacts. and primarily for 6 meter dxing.
and possibley 2 meters Weak signal work.

73
de
Wp4o, Ed, Tampa, FL
EL 87

----- Original Message -----
From: <***@verizon.net>
To: <***@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 12:50 PM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?

Post by drewko1 at verizon.net ()
Steve,
I will be using the K3 for pretty much only CW and SWL. Perhaps a
little PSK.
I like some small CW contests, but am not a contester by any means.
I'll be sticking with the 10 watt version; my K2 has shown that that
is sufficient power for me. Will also only have a very basic filter
set.
I did order the ATU; the K2 spoiled me with that. My antennas are
endfed wire and attic dipoles.
Too much rig for my limited needs? Maybe, but I'm pretty sure I'll get
my money's worth in enjoyment.
73,
Drew
AF2Z

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Hi Everyone,
With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are
there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or
prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special
need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular
topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.)
The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware
updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its
other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary
customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling
points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!)
I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all
excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very
enjoyable.
I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are
as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to
contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my
code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time.
I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal
preference, but I'd enjoy your comments.
Thanks and 73 to all...
Steve Banks
K0PQ

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[WA6OCP]

Steve,

Speaking for myself, as a 'mostly' non-contestor, I certainly believe that a
K3 can be fully utilized and enjoyed by the general, but discriminating,
operator. I have only had mine running for less than a week now, but I
marvel at it every time I turn it on. My usage is mainly CW, but I do a
little SSB (haven't tried it yet), and may explore keybordless data later.

You will love it.

72, Neal WA6OCP
K3/10/305

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Hi Everyone,
With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are
there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or
prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special
need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular
topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.)
The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware
updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its
other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary
customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling
points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!)
I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all
excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very
enjoyable.
I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are
as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to
contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my
code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time.
I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal
preference, but I'd enjoy your comments.
Thanks and 73 to all...
Steve Banks
K0PQ
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[Ron D'Eau Claire]

Hi Steve:

I'm a 99% CW operator who generally ducks contests to play on the WARC ands
while the "radiosporters" do their thing.

I've managed perhaps a dozen QSOs on my K3 in between tearing it to bits as
needed to work on the assembly manuals.

In that short time I've found the K3 a rag-chewer's - casual operator's
dream in too many ways to describe in one e-mail. But start with a very
short "learning curve" to understand the basic operations, nice, easy to use
front panel controls, its outstanding technical specifications and great
flexibility. And, of course, it has caused me to do a lot more SWL-ing,
across the short waves and on the BC band too, with its general coverage
capability. It's nice to punch in a station's frequency using the direct
entry and have the station come up tuned in perfectly, even for listening to
music in SSB mode!

The K3 is likely to drag me back into more "phone" operation after several
decades of CW, not to mention playing around with digital modes more since
it's set up to do multi-mode operating with a minimum of fuss and bother
(don't even need a computer connected to it!).

As the K3 order backlog gets caught up, I'm looking forward to spending a
lot more time just roaming the bands than I have done in a long time.

Ron AC7AC

[K8TB]

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are
as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are

to contesters.

Steve, I probably am the biggest "putz" operator/owner of a K3 there
is. I am not into contest or DX'ing. I do enjoy PSK 31.
I'm turning 55 this week, and have been in the hobby since I was 13.
I can't explain it, but the K3, well, it's just "the" radio. It is
an absolute joy just to tool around and listen with.
I have actual heard three different qso's where the folks where talking
about the K3. So of course I had to break in. That will take over a 30
minutes to answer questions.

I also think this radio is going to be going strong 15-20 years from
now. We can look at rigs like the TS-520 and SB-101 and state that they
still work well after 30 years, but they don't perform like the K3.
At the same time, a lot of us had a lot of fun with those tube type
rigs. I remember buying a used SB-303/401, that wasn't working. I fixed
it, and had that rig for a long time. It was a lot of fun.

And to me, that is what the K3 gives you, for whatever unexplainable
reason, is just fun to have in the shack. Don't worry about the fact
that you are not a contester, just have fun with it.

Another side note to this Elecraft/K3 thing is, the response from
Elecraft. Firmware changes, that other manufactures would have to come
with a new Model suffix with, (K3-MKII-G?), well Aptos kicks them out
weekly. Someone asks for change "X", which will only affect maybe 1 out
ten operators, will be implemented. Then you have Simon, in the hills of
Switzerland, writing code for HRD, which while it will works with 100+
rigs, will work exceptionally well for the K3, because Simon has one.

It's fun. Go ahead and simply enjoy one of the most elegant and
practical radios out there.

tom k8tb

(getting really close to ordering a second K3, for the remote base)

[WILLIS COOKE]

Steve, the reason there is so much talk about the K3
and contests is because contesting is a big test of a
receiver with the need to operate with very strong
signals at nearby frequencies and lots of QRM. Not
all radios can stand up to this kind of test, but the
K3 is reportedly the best there is. (I don't have
first hand knowledge because I am waiting for
delivery.) Having a super good receiver will make the
K3 all the better for casual rag chewing or any other
type of operation that pleases you.

Good luck with your type of operation.

Cookie, K5EWJ, Contester and casual operator

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Hi Everyone,
With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about
a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like
me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective
owners, who just like hamming in general and have no
special need for the K3's contesting prowess?
(Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3
owners on the reflector.)
The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and
finish, and firmware updating capabilities are
certainly appealing to me as are many of its other
capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's
legendary customer service and its reputation for
excellence are also big selling points for me.
(Maybe I've answered my own question!)
I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s
and a KX1 that are all excellent performers.
Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable.
I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities
and performance are as appealing to others like me
(non-contesters) as they obviously are to
contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been
trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent
20-25wpm for a long time.
I realize that my question emerges from the slippery
realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your
comments.
Thanks and 73 to all...
Steve Banks
K0PQ
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[Mike Kasrich]

I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get the
best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from non-contest
types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting it
should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it in
nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in.

Just an opinion of course.

Mike/aj9c

[Robert Tellefsen]

With an Elecraft radio, you can do some surprising things.
In a contest, I can operate close to high power stations that
have a clean signal, yet sometimes they can't handle having
even my 5w K2 close by their receive frequency. That's
the beauty of a great receiver. The K3 appears to be even
better.
Good luck and 73
Bob N6WG

----- Original Message -----
From: "Mike Kasrich" <***@indy.rr.com>
Cc: "Elecraft" <***@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:06 AM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?

Post by Mike Kasrich
I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get the
best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from non-contest
types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting it
should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it in
nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in.
Just an opinion of course.
Mike/aj9c
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[Richard HIll]

So, I think I hear a warning...It may soon be that we'll have wall to wall
K3's up and down the band during contests, and we'll need a K3 just to
squeeze in and be able ignore the neighbors <grin>.

Rich
NU6T

-----Original Message-----
From: elecraft-***@mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-***@mailman.qth.net]On Behalf Of Robert Tellefsen
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:33 AM
To: Mike Kasrich
Cc: Elecraft
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?


With an Elecraft radio, you can do some surprising things.
In a contest, I can operate close to high power stations that
have a clean signal, yet sometimes they can't handle having
even my 5w K2 close by their receive frequency. That's
the beauty of a great receiver. The K3 appears to be even
better.
Good luck and 73
Bob N6WG

----- Original Message -----
From: "Mike Kasrich" <***@indy.rr.com>
Cc: "Elecraft" <***@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:06 AM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?

Post by Mike Kasrich
I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get the
best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from non-contest
types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting

it

Post by Mike Kasrich
should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it

in

Post by Mike Kasrich
nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in.
Just an opinion of course.
Mike/aj9c
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[Robert Tellefsen]

Right on. QRP to the front.
Watch the elbows, I'm coming through.
Good luck and 73
Bob N6WG
The Little Station with Attitude

----- Original Message -----
From: "Richard HIll" <***@ix.netcom.com>
To: "Robert Tellefsen" <***@comcast.net>; "Mike Kasrich"
<***@indy.rr.com>
Cc: "Elecraft" <***@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 12:45 PM
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?

Post by Richard HIll
So, I think I hear a warning...It may soon be that we'll have wall to wall
K3's up and down the band during contests, and we'll need a K3 just to
squeeze in and be able ignore the neighbors <grin>.
Rich
NU6T
-----Original Message-----

Tellefsen

Post by Richard HIll
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:33 AM
To: Mike Kasrich
Cc: Elecraft
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?
With an Elecraft radio, you can do some surprising things.
In a contest, I can operate close to high power stations that
have a clean signal, yet sometimes they can't handle having
even my 5w K2 close by their receive frequency. That's
the beauty of a great receiver. The K3 appears to be even
better.
Good luck and 73
Bob N6WG
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2008 11:06 AM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Is the K3 for non-contesters?

Post by Mike Kasrich
I contest therefore I am......that aside. You should always get the
best rig available. A lot of the complaints I get from

non-contest

Post by Richard HIll

Post by Mike Kasrich
types is you are too close. If you get a great rig for contesting

it

Post by Mike Kasrich
should be EXCELLENT for casual operating since you won't be using it

in

Post by Mike Kasrich
nearly the harsh RF environment contesters live in.
Just an opinion of course.
Mike/aj9c
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[Tom Childers, N5GE]

Post by STEPHEN W BANKS
Hi Everyone,
With a K3 in my future (I ordered a loaded one about a month ago), are there are any non-contesters like me out there who are K3 owners, or prospective owners, who just like hamming in general and have no special need for the K3's contesting prowess? (Contesting seems to be a popular topic amongst K3 owners on the reflector.)
The rig's extensive menus, its Cadillac-like fit and finish, and firmware updating capabilities are certainly appealing to me as are many of its other capabilities. But I'll also confess that Elecraft's legendary customer service and its reputation for excellence are also big selling points for me. (Maybe I've answered my own question!)
I operate lots of CW with a small fleet of two K2s and a KX1 that are all excellent performers. Occasional SSB and PSK QSOs are also very enjoyable.
I'm just curious about whether the K3's capabilities and performance are as appealing to others like me (non-contesters) as they obviously are to contesters. I'm a great fan of CW and have been trying hard to get my code speed up to a consistent 20-25wpm for a long time.
I realize that my question emerges from the slippery realm of personal preference, but I'd enjoy your comments.
Thanks and 73 to all...
Steve Banks
K0PQ

[snip]

I'm also a casual operator, but I do try to make a few contacts during CW
contests.

The K3 appeals to me because of the good comments and specs regarding it's CW
performance.

Two other options are responsible for my order made in late Oct. 2007; The Sub
RX and The XVTR module. I've always been disappointed in the sub RX performance
of the rigs I've owned since I got my Drake TR7/R7 in 1978 (still have them). I
also have become very interested in VHF/UHF operating and have built an XV144
which is in use with my Orion II. If the XV144 works as well with the K3 I will
probably add an XV432 to the VHF/UHF equipment here.

I too ordered a fully loaded K3, on October 21st. As Buddy Holly said in his
song, "Every day it's a gettin' closer. Goin' faster than a roller coaster...."
'A new K3 will surely come my way.'. Yes I have officially reached OF status
;o) .

Tom, N5GE - SWOT 3537 - Grid EM12jq

They that can give up essential liberty
to obtain a little temporary safety
deserve neither liberty nor safety.

Support the entire Constitution, not
just the parts you like.

http://www.n5ge.com
http://www.eQSL.cc/Member.cfm?N5GE

[Johnny Siu]

Hello Group,

I notice that battery technology has been improving.
The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be
replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr
instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can
be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say US$10.

Therefore, my question is "Is it possible to modify
the K2 to deliver a RF output of something around
20-25W?"

It is ok to have my K2 operating at 12-15 watts. With
a bit of more power say 25 watts, I can be heard more
easily. Of course, I know all the arguments of better
antennas etc etc.

I don't need a KPA/100 because I have already had a
K3.

I know there are some competent RF engineers here.
Can somebody enlighten me?

73

Johnny Siu VR2XMC



¥X®t©Î¥h®È¹C®É¡A§A¥i¥HÀH®ÉÀHŠa¥Î¥þ·sªºYahoo! Messenger ºô€Wª©ŠPªB€Í§Y®É³q°T€Î¬džß¹ïžÜ°T®§¬ö¿ý!¥ß§Y«e©¹ http://hk.web.im

[Bill Johnson]

Johnny,

The difference in real signal strength for a receiving station if you were
to go from 15 watts to 20-25 watts is about zilch. Going from 15 watts to
60 watts is approximately 1 S-Unit. I wouldn't bother going there, besides
the changes are more work than it is worth. It may be a better option to
order the KPA-100 and increase power to 100 watts which is 10 db, closer to
2 S units. Or, in the alternative, focus on the antenna which is the least
expensive alternative, esp. if you are into wires like so many of us are.
Then, of course, one could try one of the more exotic, expensive verticals
with lots of ground wires, then 1 watt would accomplish alot.


72,

Bill

K9YEQ
K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc.


-----Original Message-----

I notice that battery technology has been improving.
The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be
replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr
instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can
be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say US$10.

Therefore, my question is "Is it possible to modify
the K2 to deliver a RF output of something around
20-25W?"

[David Pratt]

Post by Johnny Siu
I notice that battery technology has been improving.
The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be
replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr
instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can
be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say US$10.

Could you please provide a link to these batteries, Johnny? If they are
the same physical size as the original K2 battery I should be very
interested in obtaining one.

73

[Johnny Siu]

Hi Bill,

Thanks for your reply. The usual answer to my own
question is going for a better antenna and I think
most of the readers will know that.

Through years of hamming, there are indeed marginial
situations where a mariginal power difference does
mean something.

With an original built-in lead acid battery of
capacity 2.9Ahr, 12-15 watt output from K2 is no doubt
a very good compromise between power output and
current consumption. The elecraft designers did make
a good design compromise.

Now that 3.5Ahr battery is just so easily available at
only US$10 or less that it is a real attraction to ask
for a managable higher output level.

From monetary terms, if K2 can be modified to deliver

25 watts at say US$50, it would be worthwhile to go
for it.

It is really no point for me to go for K2/100 because
I can simply use my K3 which can deliver 100 watts.

25 watt output from K2 can drive most of the linear
amplifiers to 1KW. My K2 can now only drive my ICPW-1
or Yaesu Quadra to only 300-350 watts.

From marketing point of view, if our QRP K2 can some

how manage to deliver 25 watts, the usefulness of the
rig will be further enhanced and hence marketability.
In other words, a 25 watts K2 could mean:

a. an capable QRP rig as it is;
b. with good power output to suit most situations;
c. a rig can drive most of the linear amplifiers to
full output without any intermediate

cheers,

Johnny VR2XMC

K3 + builder of more than 10 x K2

Johnny,
The difference in real signal strength for a
receiving station if you were
to go from 15 watts to 20-25 watts is about zilch.
Going from 15 watts to
60 watts is approximately 1 S-Unit. I wouldn't
bother going there, besides
the changes are more work than it is worth. It may
be a better option to
order the KPA-100 and increase power to 100 watts
which is 10 db, closer to
2 S units. Or, in the alternative, focus on the
antenna which is the least
expensive alternative, esp. if you are into wires
like so many of us are.
Then, of course, one could try one of the more
exotic, expensive verticals
with lots of ground wires, then 1 watt would
accomplish alot.
72,
Bill
K9YEQ
K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc.
-----Original Message-----
I notice that battery technology has been improving.
The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be
replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr
instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can
be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say
US$10.
Therefore, my question is "Is it possible to modify
the K2 to deliver a RF output of something around
20-25W?"

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[Bill Johnson]

The good thing about a larger capacity battery is that you can operate
longer. =20


72,

Bill=20

K9YEQ
K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc. (K3/100 on order!)




-----Original Message-----

From monetary terms, if K2 can be modified to deliver

25 watts at say US$50, it would be worthwhile to go
for it.

It is really no point for me to go for K2/100 because
I can simply use my K3 which can deliver 100 watts.

25 watt output from K2 can drive most of the linear
amplifiers to 1KW. My K2 can now only drive my ICPW-1
or Yaesu Quadra to only 300-350 watts.

From marketing point of view, if our QRP K2 can some

how manage to deliver 25 watts, the usefulness of the
rig will be further enhanced and hence marketability.=20
In other words, a 25 watts K2 could mean:

a. an capable QRP rig as it is;
b. with good power output to suit most situations;
c. a rig can drive most of the linear amplifiers to
full output without any intermediate

cheers,

Johnny VR2XMC

K3 + builder of more than 10 x K2

Johnny,
=20
The difference in real signal strength for a
receiving station if you were
to go from 15 watts to 20-25 watts is about zilch.=20
Going from 15 watts to
60 watts is approximately 1 S-Unit. I wouldn't
bother going there, besides
the changes are more work than it is worth. It may
be a better option to
order the KPA-100 and increase power to 100 watts
which is 10 db, closer to
2 S units. Or, in the alternative, focus on the
antenna which is the least
expensive alternative, esp. if you are into wires
like so many of us are.
Then, of course, one could try one of the more
exotic, expensive verticals
with lots of ground wires, then 1 watt would
accomplish alot.=20
=20
=20
72,
=20
Bill=20
=20
K9YEQ
K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc. =20
=20
=20
-----Original Message-----
=20
I notice that battery technology has been improving.
=20
The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be
replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr
instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version can
be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say
US$10.
=20
Therefore, my question is "Is it possible to modify
the K2 to deliver a RF output of something around
20-25W?"
=20
=20
=20

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[Craig D. Smith]

Hi Johnny ...

I think you are missing a key concept about the battery rating. The amp
hour rating defines how much energy is contained in the battery - not its
voltage. To get more power out of the K2, you would need to raise the
battery voltage. Even if you did so, the K2 is not designed to operate at
over 15V. Don't go there!! And, as others have pointed out, 25W would not
be much more effective than its present 15W. All the extra amp hours of the
new battery will get you is extended battery life at the present 15W power
level. This can be a good thing if you are operating portable, but will not
increase the power level of the transmitter.

73
... Craig AC0DS

[Johnny Siu]

Hello Craig,

Thanks for reply. Yes, ampere hour represents the
battery capacity and means longer operation hour for
K2.

On the other hand, K3 is also operating on 12-13.8v
but delivery full 100 watts.

I agree with you that 15 w is a very good compromise
between power output and current consumption.

With the advancement of battery technology, it is now
a real attraction to let the portable rig to deliver
more output whenever necessary.

I would like to use my K2 for portable operation
rather than my K3 because its standy current is merely
200mA.

If the design team of Elecraft can modify the maximum
power output to 25 w, K2 would be even marketable
(means more sale and profit to Elecraft) because:

1. best specifications among portable QRP radios;
2. lower standby current among portable QRP radios;
3. highest maximum output power among portable QRP
radios

While I am thinking of 25 watt output, it does not
mean that I shall operate the K2 at that level all the
time. It will just give us the flexibility for more
power if we need it.

With such trend of advancement in battery technology,
there will be a day when we can even get a 4AH battery
easily and cheaply.

I am interested in learning the group's view and this
mail reflector is a real good discussion group.

cheers,

Johnny VR2XMC

Post by Craig D. Smith
Hi Johnny ...
I think you are missing a key concept about the
battery rating. The amp
hour rating defines how much energy is contained in
the battery - not its
voltage. To get more power out of the K2, you would
need to raise the
battery voltage. Even if you did so, the K2 is not
designed to operate at
over 15V. Don't go there!! And, as others have
pointed out, 25W would not
be much more effective than its present 15W. All
the extra amp hours of the
new battery will get you is extended battery life at
the present 15W power
level. This can be a good thing if you are
operating portable, but will not
increase the power level of the transmitter.
73

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[Johnny Siu]

Hi David and other group members,

Thank you for all your replies.

I shall try to buy one of those 3.5AH battery first
and give you details later.

There are many many battery manufacturers in China
where we are so near. I shall see what I get.

There may be no weblink for manufacturers who are in
fact OEM for other suppliers.

We are lucky that we do not have any GST or VAT or
import duties. Ham gears and electronic parts are
just cheaper than most parts of the world.

73

Johnny VR2XMC

In a recent message, Johnny Siu

Post by Johnny Siu
I notice that battery technology has been

improving.

Post by Johnny Siu
The internal lead-acid battery used in K2 can be
replaced by newer version with capacity of 3.5Ahr
instead of the original 2.9Ahr. The new version

can

Post by Johnny Siu
be found easily in Hong Kong at a price of say

US$10.
Could you please provide a link to these batteries,
Johnny? If they are
the same physical size as the original K2 battery I
should be very
interested in obtaining one.
73
--
David G4DMP
Leeds, England, UK
------

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