[Elecraft] K3 VHf use

[Richard Ferch]

Maarten,

There are two related but different configuration options for the 
situation you describe. The first option lets you use your CW paddles or 
key while the radio is in SSB mode. The newer option (so far in beta 
firmware only) adjusts the offset so that when you switch modes from SSB 
to CW, you do not have to retune the radio.

The first one is documented in the current Owner's Manual; it is called 
CW-in-SSB. Quoting from the K3 Firmware Release Notes for firmware 
version 1.87:

"CW KEYING IN SSB MODES:  While in SSB modes, you can now send CW 
without changing modes or using an offset. The other station will hear 
the signal at your CW pitch. This is especially useful on VHF bands when 
SSB signals can’t be copied. To enable this feature, go into CONFIG:CW 
WGHT and tap '1' until you see SSB +CW."

You can also use this option for cross-mode QSOs. Interfaced logging 
software will record the QSO as an SSB QSO, since the radio is still in 
SSB mode.

The second option was added in firmware beta release 3.19 and is not yet 
in the Owner's Manual. From the K3 Firmware Release Notes:

"AUTOMATIC CW VFO OFFSET ON MODE CHANGE: Allows switching quickly 
between SSB and CW mode without either you or the other station
having to re-tune the VFO (often done on 6 meters and transverter 
bands). First, locate CONFIG:CW WGHT and tap '5' on the keypad until you 
see "VFO OFS". From then on, when switching to CW mode from any other
mode, the VFO will be offset by an amount equal to your sidetone pitch
(as set using the PITCH switch in CW mode). If the sideband most 
recently used on this band is USB, the VFO will be shifted UP; if it was 
LSB, the VFO will be shifted DOWN.

Note: If you make frequent use of this feature, you may want to
use CW reverse on bands where you use USB, and CW normal
on bands where you use LSB. This results in perfect pitch matching
when listening to a CW signal and switching from SSB to CW."

You must download and install beta release firmware 3.19 or newer to use 
this option; I believe it will be included in the next regular 
production release.

73,
Rich VE3KI