[Elecraft] SDR-IQ + K2

[Chuck]

Mike wrote:
+++++++++++++++++++++++
"I was wondering if anyone on the list is using the
SDR-IQ software
 defined radio and what their thoughts are on it.
 
Can CW Skimmer be used with it? Does it have to run
through my K2? So
 and so forth. I don't use cw skimmer but I do contest
a lot and would
 like to know how much woule it really help."
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++
Picked up a SDR-IQ some time ago for use as a general
coverage SW receiver. The SDR-IQ is the size of a pack
of playing cards. The packaged control software,
SpectraVue, is highly capable and works beautifully
with a plain vanilla, 5 year old Dell laptop (XP
Pro)through one of the USB ports and using the on
board soundcard. Highly recommend the SDR-IQ for on
the go HF, 500 hz to 30 mhz, all mode SWLing (AM, USB,
LSB, DSB, CW). Comparable in performance to a R-71A.

Several months ago added a Cliffton Laboratories
Z10000 IF buffer-amplifier / tap to the K2 (w/KIO2
RS-232 interface)and frequently use the SDR-IQ as a
panoramic spectrum monitor. This is an easy
modification and Cliffton Labs provides outstanding
support (also highly recommend).

Typically, use the SDR-IQ + K2 combination to monitor
about 150 khz of spectrum for general activity. For
example, in the evenings, generally observe 30 to 40
cw sigs in the segment from 7.0 to 7.15 mhz)-- 4 or 5
closely spaced is a good tip that dx is present.  A
mouse click at that location on the laptop screen will
take the K2 instantly there to check what is going on.
 More often, use the SDR-IQ to simply check for a
clear space to CQ or to find an interesting QSO to
listen in on (the laptop screen resolution is plenty
adequate to visually decode cw if desired). In
summary, the SDR-IQ and K2 (with Z10000) work and
track very well together.

Have not used cw skimmer but, could. Not of interest
for contesting as this technology, imho, is "assisted"
whereas just me and the radio (plus laptop with no
spotting clusters attached)is preferred for this
activity. This month's issue of the NCJ has several
very good articles on SDR-IQ setup and utilization.
73, Chuck AF4PP