[Elecraft] K3 Observations Digital Modes and SSB

[R. Kevin Stover]

Short of using something like the KK7UQ IMD meter the best way to know
how clean you signal is is to have the guy at the other end send you a
screen shot of your signal on his waterfall.

If you use something like the IMD meter, the lower the number the
better. Your shooting for -25 or lower.
If you get a screen shot you want NO tracks outside of the two main
carriers.
Treat reported IMD numbers from others like S meter readings. The
quality of that number has a lot to do with the software they're using
and how strong your signal is.



On Wed, 2 Feb 2011 12:47:44 -0500 (EST)
goldtr8 at charter.net wrote:

> Thank you for the post, however I am confused.
> 
> However, maybe you can help me out with some target numbers.
> 
> What is a good IMD report number and good SN number from a receiveing 
> station and what are the numbers that state you are messing up the 
> bands.  Lots of contacts kick back and IMD and SN number, as I do
> with my macros.
> 
>  From my perspective, I can see a trace from someone else and with my 
> filters easily work around it with the K3 no problem, but I can not
> tell if I am creating a problem with IMD products.
> 
> I am trying to understand the best way to set up my radio, and when I 
> look at the tables in the link, it tells me that keeping ACL at a 
> maximum of 4 with maybe an ocassional ticke to 5 was the key to a
> clean signal with a K3 and output power did not matter.
> 
> Also I have found that there are instances where I can hear DX with
> the filters tight and for me to respond I have to turn the power up
> to 80 to make contact.
> 
> Additionally, I try and find an open spot between frequiences in use
> and observe to see if I am close to anyone before any TX of any
> kind.  I am amaized but the amount of guys who run with the AFC
> turned on in their software and they are constantly drifting around
> and drift close to you and then would be offended that you are
> interferring with them.
> 
> Anyway, as stated above, my only feedback on my signal is when
> someone provides the IMD and SN report, so target numbers would be
> appreciated as we all have to share the space and contacts.
> 
> Thanks in advance for your help.
> 
> Don
> KD8NNU




-- 
R. Kevin Stover
AC0H