[Elecraft] Re:K3 and its COM port

[Rick Tavan N6XI]

There was lots of discussion of RS232 vs. USB among the K3 focus group
during the design phase. Considering development effort, time to market,
legal arrangements, cost, support and other factors, Elecraft decided to
defer an internal USB connector for the initial version but to use a modular
I/O design that would allow future introduction of USB and other I/O
features. Take a look at the rear panel picture on the Web site. Notice that
there are two screw-on plates holding various connectors. The lower plate is
the KXV3 option - five BNCs for various RF signals. The upper plate includes
RS-232, the ACC connector and five audio connectors (1/8" phone jacks).
Although it is included as standard equipment, it is mechanically
replaceable. A future version or option could include a USB connector. The
present USB approach is to use a USB-to-Serial adapter. These can be as
unobtrusive as a short dongle or long connector adapter. I have used three
or four different adapters successfully, so the "compromise" of leaving USB
outside the box doesn't seem to be particularly onerous. Attaboy, Elecraft!

73,

/Rick N6XI