[Elecraft] SDR-IF and I/Q questions

[Richard Fjeld]

This is the new subject title, and needs some background, so it will be lengthy this time.

Some of us use SDR-IF, and the new KX3 will use SDR-I/Q methods for connecting to a computer  running SDR software and seeing the results on a monitor. (The SDR-IF users must provide a SDR-IF receiver to bring out the I/Q leads. It is to be assumed that the SDR-IF receiver is functioning correctly.)  With both types,  I/Q leads are brought to a computer. (If you are wondering, I am on the list for a KX3)

So the computer AND THE SOFTWARE are the center of attraction here. This is where great things may happen. (Emphasis on 'may')

Some of us are at different experience levels, but I think we all would have, and still would, appreciate help to reach satisfaction.  The reflector is the place for this. The real question is; Should this be on a dedicated thread?  When I read the KX3 was going to be SDR capable, I wondered if Elecraft realized what it was getting into for the reflector?

IMHO, The weak link in this SDR thing is the computer and software. PSDR-IF has great control features, but when I compare it to HDSDR, the latter does a great job of displaying the signals and is very sensitive. PSDR-IF looks at both directions in spectrum, so far, I can only get HDSDR to look upward in spectrum. 

We can't get rid of the mirrored images in PSDR-IF.  ('WE' includes a friend who still owns 3 of 6 Flex radios he has owned, and 2 of 4 SDR-IF receivers. He is no beginner to SDR.) 

My thanks to all who responded. Can't take the space to recap everything, but Sebastian suggested mirrored images are due to ground loops. It has been long enough that I can't remember if I checked that, and I will.  However, why just PSDR-IF and not HDSDR that is affected?  A ground loop should affect both. Still, it is worth checking out.  

Basically, I'm disappointed with the software. I don't mind installing and setting some options for my type of equipment, but from there-on I expect it to function conveniently and nearly as well as a P3. 

The question for today is; have any Elecraft users achieved that goal with a computerized pan-adapter? And if so, with what software?  And if so, do you use a USB to Serial, or straight Serial?


Thanks, from now on it will be shorter.

Richard Fjeld, n0ce
rpfjeld at embarqmail.com
I'd rather be learning.