[Elecraft] K3EXREF and Trimble Thunderbolts

[Don Wilhelm]

  James,

For most HF operating, a calibrated K3 is about as "right on" as many 
commercial broadcast stations (even with the normal TCXO), so I don't 
think it is a great advantage (unless you are a real purist for 
frequency accuracy).
That is for normal HF operating, but the picture changes when one 
considers a few of the newer digital modes which are quite demanding 
about frequency accuracy, and also for those who are VHF/UHF advocates 
and are doing stuff like moonbounce.

So for many it is "nice to have", but there are a select few who 
actually need it.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 4/5/2011 3:11 PM, James Sarte (K2QI) wrote:
> Hello group,
>
> It's been many months since I've posted here, much less actually done
> something new with my K3.  This topic has however piqued my interest.
> Just so I understand fully, am I right in assuming then that the
> following is correct:
>
> 1.  Any reference oscillator operating at 10 MHz would work with the K3XREF?
> 2.  All that's needed for this to work is the K3XREF, updated
> firmware, an accurate 10 MHz clock/oscillator, and a BNC cable?
> 3.  Trimble Thunderbolt seems to be a good, cheap product to try.  Any
> others that are>  $100?
>
> What are the additional advantages of doing this other than knowing
> you've pretty much eliminated any frequency drift?
>
> 73 de James K2QI
> President UNARC/4U1UN
>