[Elecraft] K3 and QSK

[W6NEK]

While in the CW Mode here is how I would like the K3 to operate:
1. Change the firmware to add a 3rd state (OFF) to the QSK and SEMI-BREAK-IN 
CW modes.  When in the "OFF" CW Mode hitting the paddle, or key, WILL NOT 
cause the rig to go into CW Xmit (but you will still hear the sidetone if 
enabled).

2. When placed in the newly added CW OFF Mode, pressing a footswitch 
connected to the rear PTT input will allow the paddle or key to go into CW 
Xmit.

That's the way it works on 3 other rigs I have in the shack.  I guess I just 
assumed that the K3 would be set up the same way.

Frank - W6NEK

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Carl Clawson" <carlclawson at verizon.net>
To: <Elecraft at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Friday, September 21, 2007 10:11 AM
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K3 and QSK


> Let us be clear. There are two questions in this discussion.
>
> #1. Can you use external PTT to put the rig in CW transmit mode, bypassing
> both the full and semi QSK? This has been resoundly answered "Yes!"
>
> #2. Can you arrange for the CW key to be disabled when the foot switch is
> NOT pressed? I don't believe I've heard this answered clearly.
>
> #2 is exceedingly important. This was K1EP's original point when he 
> started
> this thread. Here's another scenario that shows why:
>
> Suppose my foot switch actuates relays that switch between separate Rx and
> Tx antennas. If I can transmit by accidentally bumping the key, power will
> go to the receive antenna. Now imagine that I have a receive antenna with 
> an
> external preamp. Poof! Preamp smoked. I would have to route my key through
> yet another relay if I could not have Tx disabled with no PTT.
>
> 73, Carl WS7L