[Elecraft] K3 Data Modes using SignaLink USB

[Don Wilhelm]

David.

I would like to point out that the K3 "ALC" indicator is also a level 
indicator.  The onset of ALC begins at the 5ht bar, and bars 1 through 4 
do not indicate any ALC action at all.  They are more like a VU meter 
provided to allow you some metering to help you adjust the audio level.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/12/2012 10:19 PM, David Little wrote:
> Got my cable in today to do soundcard data modes on the K3 with a SignaLink
> USB
>
> Not much chance of getting the cabling incorrect, installation was uber
> easy.  I used the rear panel inputs and outputs for the additional
> isolation; allowing me to keep the Mic on the front panel for mixed mode
> operation requirements.
>
> However, I am not having much luck finding a stable plateau to chance moving
> it off the dummy load and on the air.
>
> Output power isn't stable, and rises while the rig is in transmit.
>
> If power is changed while in transmit, it drops off, then starts building
> again.
>
> No power is generated until output level on the interface is high enough to
> generate ALC action.
>
> Not much chance of anything dependable here....  Where am I going wrong?
>
> I never run any ALC, unless it is an occasional flicker; usually a reference
> to decrease volume for a purer signal.
>
> Some prefer to run the output power to 25 watts and run 50% ALC, and share
> the signal up and down the band.
>
> I would prefer to set the power to a higher starting point, set the volume
> level correctly, then decrease the power, if necessary, maintaining a clean
> signal throughout.
>
> Anytime the power level on the K3 is changed at all, the output falls down
> and starts to build again.  Around 30 to 45 seconds into a transmission, it
> may stabilize.
>
> I  have used the SignaLink USB on a FT-897, FT-817, FTDX-9000MP, TS-2000,
> IC-756Pro II, IC-7000, IC-706, IC-7200, FT-857, FT-2000, Jupiter, IC-756
> Pro, TS-870,  TS-480.... And never experienced any instability of output
> before.
>
> Currently, I run them in the shack on a FT-897,  FT-817, IC-756 Pro II,
> TS-2000 and the K3.  The other rigs provide a stable digital platform
>
> When using a protocol where sync is dependent on the start of the
> transmission, the instability of power cannot be tolerated.
>
> I am a bit beyond RTTY and PSK-31 in the modes I need to run.   The trend I
> am operating toward now is in the direction of ARQ modes, and require a more
> refined approach than what I am seeing so far.
>
> I hope I am doing something wrong, and someone can provide some direction.
>
> David
> KD4NUE
>
>
>
>
>
>   
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft at mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>