[Elecraft] K3 sub-receiver usefulness?

[Brett Howard]

On Mon, 2009-02-09 at 21:02 -0500, James Sarte wrote:
> Hello group,
> 
>  
> 
> Someone mentioned in one of the reflector emails that the new firmware
> under development will allow independent band switching/monitoring
> between VFO’s without a sub receiver.  Am I correct in my
> understanding then that without a sub receiver, this firmware will
> allow tuning and monitoring of separate bands?  If that is indeed the
> case, can someone please clarify for me how that can accomplished with
> a single receiver?  
> 
You can monitor two different bands at once with a single receiver yes
but you can't listen to both of them at the same time.  Essentially you
still have the exact same setup that the radio does today.  You have VFO
A and VFO B just like you already do.  The only difference is that VFO A
and VFO B can be on different bands now.  

So you can have VFO A on 7.029 and VFO B on 14.029 and as you press the
A/B button you kick back and forth between the two bands.  You can also
press and hold REV and switch between them temporarily.

This change will also allow you to use split mode across bands.  Many
other radio's allow this.  
>  
> 
> On a separate note, apart from diversity receive, I’m curious to know
> how other people are utilizing their sub receiver?  The reason I ask
> is I’m finalizing my purchase of a K3, and am trying to determine
> whether it’s necessary to fully load up both receivers now.  At this
> point, I’m ready to purchase 2 general coverage modules plus 2 each of
> the following filters: 250KHz, 400KHz, 2.8Khz, 6KHz, 13KHz.  I’d like
> to have the ability to monitor PSK31, FM or SW broadcast on the sub,
> while monitoring phone or engaging in a phone QSO on the main; both
> receivers being on separate bands.  That’s just one example.  Another
> could be to monitor SW broadcast on the main while listening to 10m FM
> on the sub.  Do I need to install the AM or FM filters in the sub to
> monitor SW or FM or can the sub’s DSP take care of it?
> 
One thing is that while in a QSO you won't be able to hear out of any of
them while in TX.  But when you're monitoring you'll be able to hear
both at once.  You'll need the filters to be able to receive those modes
in full glory but you can receive AM just fine with just the 2.7K filter
in SSB mode.  You can get a lot done with just the stock radio.  Often
you can get a lot done with just one general coverage rx filter but
you'll have more flexibility and the ability to listen to two out of
band freqs...
>  
> 
> 73,
> 
> James KC2UEE
> 
>  
> 
> 
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