[Elecraft] K2 + SignalLink: Setting gains for digital modes

[EricJ]

Can't help you with the specific problem as I use a RigBlaster instead 
of the SignaLink. But a means to monitor your signal quality is pretty 
basic and the solution is simple.

I have both the PSKMeter (~$45 kit) and the KK7UQ IMD Meter (~$150 
assembled). Both do a great job. Both can be "online" at all times to 
monitor PSK31 and PSK63. I find that IMD levels change using the K2 
depending on band to some extent and things get bumped, so I don't like 
to just set-and-forget. Both meters agree fairly closely when I've used 
them simultaneously.

The PSKMeter requires inserting a BNC T-connector at the output of the 
K2. This is used to couple a sample of the outgoing rf signal to the 
meter. The meter connects to a serial port on your computer for display 
of results.

http://www.ssiserver.com/info/pskmeter/

The IMD Meter is self sufficient. No connections to the rig or computer; 
a small antenna picks up your transmitted signal. Results read out on a 
small LED display. It doubles as a field strength meter. With no 
connections, it's always ready for whichever rig I fire up (K2, PSK-20, 
Softrock Xcvr)

http://kk7uq.com/html/imdmeter.html

There are probably other easy ways available, but I think it should be 
basic equipment in a PSK shack.

Eric
KE6US

On 4/14/2013 9:25 AM, Chris Kimball wrote:
> I operate digital modes with the K2/KPA with a SignalLink computer interface.
> The SignalLink drives the microphone input to the K2.  The K2 has
> compression turned off (1:1) and a mike gain of 3.  The SignalLink computer
> interface is at 100% gains on both sides and the SignalLink has the default
> internal gain jumpers.
>
> I get occasional comments that I'm splattering, a very serious concern.
> Unfortunately I lack instrumentation to study the problem.
>
> How should I set the audio (SignalLink) drive gain and the RF (K2 Power)
> drive? My normal operation is not smoke-producing, so this is not a
> duty-cycle question.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Chris
> NQ8Z
>
>
>
> --
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