[Elecraft] DSP for K2

[Kevin Cozens]

On 12-08-09 03:12 PM, Stephen Roberts wrote:
>  But I wanted to ask the list what outboard DSP units you
> might use and whether you think they're worth it or not.
[snip]
> I have the KAF2 installed and it's very effective, but I'd really like to
> get rid of some of that QRN that's always present on 40m.

I have a KAF2 and it is a nice device to have that has little impact on the 
current drain from the batteries. That is important to me because my K2 is 
almost always running off it's internal battery.

The only DSP unit I have used with a radio is a JPS NIR-10 outboard DSP unit 
which I used with a Yaesu FT-890. With some noise it did such a good job you 
had to look at the radio to see if it was still on. With steady tones it 
worked a treat. CW would turn in to just clicks and all those people tuning 
up on wouldn't be noticed other than by a slight reduction in the level of 
the signal you were listening to (due to the IF reacting to the tuner upper).

I found it was worth buying the DSP unit. Having the noise reduced 
(substantially on higher bands), makes ragchew or long periods of listening 
much more pleasant. During net operations, or while trying to bag that rare 
(DX) station you need for the log, multi-notch filtering really helps save 
ones ears from the tuner-uppers.

The KDSP2 unit would be handy if you find your operating could benefit from 
what it can offer for just the "cost" of a slight increase in current draw. 
Being built in to the radio, it will always be there if you go portable. An 
external DSP has the advantage of being usable with other radios but would 
be complicates things when it comes to having to get power for it during 
times of portable operation.

-- 
Cheers!

Kevin.

http://www.ve3syb.ca/           |"Nerds make the shiny things that distract
Owner of Elecraft K2 #2172      | the mouth-breathers, and that's why we're
                                 | powerful!"
#include <disclaimer/favourite> |             --Chris Hardwick