[Elecraft] Contesting use

[Tom W8JI]

So, what the K3 really needs then is a contest oriented application on a 
computer.  Maybe something rich like PowerSDR but works with the K3 in a 
manner where contesting features (logging and contest log management) along 
with sophisticated macro control from a visual controls perspective.>>>

No. That would never fly for this application.

Operators need buttons or toggle switches that serve one function. Hands are 
too busy.

<<<
Indeed, now that I think about it, this would be a great application if it 
were designed to be configurable per each contester.  Arrangements of 
controls on the screen, sophisticated macro control via custom U/I, and 
other nifty features.>>>

This is a different requirement, and may be one that totally conflicts with 
the target market. It may not be workable.

Operators want a big panel, big knobs, and one easy to see and hit button 
that does one task. The last thing that sells into this application is a 
computer keyboard, mouse, or touch screen application. This is why people 
with ten or fifteen radios gravitate to the big boxes even though raw 
performance is less.

<<Thus, instead of sitting in front of the K3 with its small format 
presentation and the overload commands on the buttons, the computer would be 
much more useful if all K3 functions were available.>>

It would be much less useful. The computer screen is full of windows 
already, and clicking outside the window will stop the system from 
responding.

What would be useful is a toggle switch from 1945. What would be painful is 
an iPad or keyboard function.  :-)

What would be super, but I realize can never happen, is a big front panel 
with one control for one function. What would be almost as good is being 
able to program buttons for dedicated single functions. Like I use M1-M4 for 
bandwidth changes. It is much better than the rotary knob to just poke a 
preset button.

There are many things that never get used, but I am not aware of any way to 
program them to a different use. Like I never use the ATU, because I don't 
have one. I never use the ANT, only have one port. Never use the NB or NR, 
because with a crowded band it just kills RX performance.

Moving things off the panel, unless it is something up out of the way on 
another dedicated panel, is not an option.

73 Tom