[Elecraft] PSK using a K2

[Don Wilhelm]

Pete,

The K2 is quite usable for PSK31.  I recommend that you turn the RTTY 
set of filters on in the menu if for no other reason than it allows you 
to set the speech compression to 1:1 while having a different 
compression setting for SSB.

I also recommend that you set the FL1 filter position the same as you 
use for SSB, but set FL2 thru FL4 to something more narrow and centered 
on 1000 Hz.  I normally set the narrow filters at 1.00, 0.70 and 0.40.  
The narrow filters will allow you to receive without strong signals near 
a weaker one that you want to work from taking over the receiver - the 
way to use it is to tune your desired signal (with the VFO) to the 
vicinity of 1000 Hz, set the filter width desired then click on the 
signal in the waterfall display.  Also in the PSK31 computer application 
you should lock the transmit frequency because there may be a slight (up 
to 20 Hz) shift in the signal when changing from filter to filter.  
Locking the transmit frequency will keep the QSO from 'walking up or 
down the band'.

Use whatever interface that you want, or build your own - they are not 
complex, and adjust the audio levels for good transmit IMD and a good 
display on the waterfall.  Keep the power within bounds for continuous 
duty cycle operation - limit power to about 5 watts with the base K2 or 
35 watts with the KPA100.  That is all there is to it.

73,
Don W3FPR

Pete Milsom wrote:
> Hi All
>
>          Could I have some views on using the K2 for PSK31 ?  Is it a good rig for this mode ? Thanks in advance. 73  de  Pete. G4GSA.
>
>