[Elecraft] Experience using the new K60XV option

[Mike Lewis]

Hi all,

I thought I would pass on some of my experiences testing and using the new 
K60XV 60M &Transverter interface board.

I run a reasonably complex configuration where I am using a single K2 and a 
set of 4 or more transverters packaged in a nice looking wooden box so it 
can be moved between the desk in my hamshack and my truck quickly.   I 
wanted coverage of HF thorugh 1296MHz and beyond, and wanted to simplify the 
operation of all of this gear and required accessories so that I only needed 
to press the BAND UP/DOWN buttons and everything would be automatically 
lined up for reliable use.   I also wanted to preserve the ability to easily 
slip out my K2 for quick HF QRP fun so I wanted to keep the internal tuner 
and battery options intact.

I previuosly used a manual transverter selection switch to align the PTT, 
input attenuation, and 144MHz IF switches.  This of course encourages 
misalignments at the worst times resulting in missed QSOs.  The K60XV 
supported the split 28MHz IF output I needed, and the finely adjustable 
power range capability (about 20dB) allowed me to eliminate extra IF 
attenuators and switching controlling them.  The ability to assign a maximum 
power setting per transverter band allowed me to tailor the IF drive so I 
would not overdirve different transverter inputs and their downstream 
amplifiers.  Each seems to need it's own settings.

I used the KRC2 along with XV144, XV220, and K60XV as a system solution to 
automatically route the IF and PTT signals on both 28MHz and 144MHz with a 
minimum of fuss and complete automation.   I use my XV144 double duty as a 
2M exciter or direct to an antenna, and also as the 144MHz IF for the 
microwave transverters.  It is now contest ready and between contests I use 
it daily in the house for casual operating on HF and VHF/Microwave.

For my HF operation, I really enjoy the implemenation of channelization used 
for 60M with the K60XV and Firmware 2.04.  When I change bands, on 60M the 
VFO knob selects one of 5 fixed frequencies allowed, and for all other bands 
the VFO operates as normal.

I have a white paper on my implemetation at my web site listed below should 
you want to see more detail.  I have not updated my pictures yet, but will 
likely do that in the next couple of days.

73,

Mike Lewis
K7MDL
Grid Locator CN87xt
Member of Pacific Northwest VHF Society #C96 (www.pnwvhfs.org)
Member of Microsoft Amateur Radio Club (www.microhams.com)
Visit the K7MDL Amateur Radio Pages web site at 
http://mysite.verizon.net/michael_d_lewis/index.html