[Elecraft] K3 Observations Digital Modes and SSB

[goldtr8 at charter.net]

Hi Kevin,

Thanks that now makes sense to me.  However, than almost every signal 
that I am looking at is outside of the two main carriers.  Like little 
spikes, I don't know how else to define it.

Is this not also a function of the filtering set up in the software that 
you would be using, which supports your statement its kind of like a S 
meter so take it with a grain of salt.


I will have to set up a sked with some fellow K3 users to play with them 
sending some screen shots back and forth of the waterfall.

The IMD Meter you mention looks like a good investment.



Don
KD8NNU


On Wed, Feb 2, 2011 at 1:19 PM, R. Kevin Stover wrote:

> 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