[Elecraft] FWIW: Why there's a real-time clock in the K3

[Edward R Cole]

I use the K3 clock set on utc as a convenience since my computer 
displays local time.  I used to have a MFJ dual-time clock for this 
but it finally failed (it also required correction periodically).

My computer time is corrected every ten minutes with a NIST time 
standard to 10ms accuracy.  This is not just a nicety for me as the 
time-synchronous digital modes I run on eme require time accuracy 
within 1-second.  The K3 clock does not need to as accurate but when 
I notice the time has drifted I merely use the utility program to 
update the K3 clock from the computer.

Last time it did this was about 3-4 weeks ago and checking it I see 
the K3 is now about 30-seconds behind.  This sounds like about a 
second/day.  Not a serious issue for me.  I do like to be within a 
minute for skeds and contests, etc.  Easy solution using the K3 utility.

Being a professional electronic technician, I do not wear metallic 
jewelry or a watch due to the potential for shock.

73, Ed - KL7UW

------------------------------
Message: 29
Date: Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:31:32 -0700
From: Wayne Burdick <n6kr at elecraft.com>
Subject: [Elecraft] FWIW: Why there's a real-time clock in the K3
To: Elecraft Reflector <elecraft at mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <932D084F-79AE-4838-8F4D-3DDACF83A748 at elecraft.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes

I do manual logging when the PC is turned off. I also use the "ALARM"
function of the K3 to remind me when it's time to stop doing email and
start a contest.

I don't wear a watch since they tend to get snagged on things. Most
also conduct electricity, and my hand is often buried inside a rig. I
don't want one of those $19 brushed-aluminum 24-hour clock thingies
that sits on top of the rig, especially when operating portable. My
iPhone tells time pretty well but stays in my pocket. I can't see the
wall clock with my glasses off.

+/- 2 seconds per day is just inaccurate enough to remind me to tune
into WWV about once a month :)

73,
Wayne
N6KR



73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45
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