[Elecraft] Re: KX1 PSK31? [how about FSK?]

[Doug Forman]

I would also express my huge interest in a mini-qrp rig (KX1/K1/etc) 
that is multi-band with a built-in antenna tuner for digital modes 
(PSK-31/MFSK/etc).

My KX1 is a superb radio.  I absolutely love it and rate it a strong 9 
out of 10.  To make 10, and be used much more for me personally, it 
would need (1) the ability to do digital modes, (2) more frequency 
memories, and (3) computer interface for programming and rig control 
(which sort of goes along with digital modes, and sort of doesn't!)

Okay, so my wish list might not completely be consistent with a "trail 
radio" and the design goals of the KX1.  No problem, I'm flexible.  Add 
my requested features to the K1 instead and I will reply with my 
MasterCard number instantly!  Or maybe a wonderful new Elecraft product 
focused on QRP digital modes?

72/73's

Doug  N7BNT
KX1 # 731

wayne burdick wrote:

> Hi Eric,
>
> Great idea, but the KX1's final amplifier operates class C. To make 
> the KX1 transmit on SSB would require class AB PA bias and the 
> addition of a balanced modulator. This is not readily accomplished 
> with either internal mods or an external adapter.
>
> However, it may be possible to operate the KX1 in any low-data-rate, 
> dual-tone FSK mode. This is compatible with a class-C final amp, and 
> should require only a firmware change. The KX1's key jack would serve 
> as the data input/output port for connection to a computer. 
> Unfortunately FSK (e.g. traditional RTTY) is not quite as popular as 
> PSK31 for QRP use, even though good reliability is possible with some 
> variants.
>
> Would this be of interest?
>
> 73,
> Wayne
>
>
>
> On Oct 2, 2004, at 12:32 PM, Eric Ward wrote:
>
>> When I was tuning around today on my KX1, I heard the usual strong 
>> warble around 14.070 and I got the brilliant idea to: plug a patch 
>> cord from the KX1 headphone output to my soundcard input, launch 
>> PSK31 Deluxe, crack open the AF gain, and boom, 5 QSOs popped up 
>> right away.
>>  
>> I know the thinking on omitting an SSB option from the KX1 is because 
>> voice doesn't typically work reliably below about 10W, and an SSB 
>> board wouldn't fit in the KX1 case.  But like CW, PSK31 can work like 
>> a champ even at 100s of mW.
>>  
>> So how about an Elecraft-designed-and-produced *outboard* SSB adapter 
>> for the KX1, designed specifically for PSK31?  On biz trips, I 
>> usually have my KX1 and laptop--it would be great to take along one 
>> more little black box and be able to work PSK31, while making use of 
>> the KX1's KXAT1 capability to match a hotel room random wire on 
>> multiple bands.  (The Small Wonder Labs PSK series looks exceedingly 
>> cool, but is rock-bound to a single band and requires an 
>> external tuner for non-resonant antennas.)
>>  
>> Good idea?  Dumb idea?
>>  
>> 73,
>> Eric
>>  N0HHS KX1 #670
>>
>
> ---
>
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