[Elecraft] EME with K3 /XV144

[eric norris via Elecraft]

A couple of notes on using the XV144 for EME:

1.  The crystal oven option helps stability.  Allow 30-minute warmup.

2.  Max power for JT65 is 10 watts, but cooling is inadequate.  I use a small muffin fan attached to the desktop that blows air under the XV144 and works perfectly.  The extra noise is imperceptible over the hurricane created by 4 fans that keep the 3CX800 amp from blowing up.  Again.

3.  My K3 has the high-stability oscillator, but no external reference.  This works fine.

4.  As I recall, the internal 2m module is not as stable as the XV144.  The output for continuous duty is much lower.  You will have more amp flexibility with the external XV144.  And it's fun to build.

5.  As Jim suggested, use the milliwatt output from the K3 for less heat inside the XV144.

6.  On one rare night I blew up both my external pre-amp and the backup--I could still hear the louder stations.  The NF of the XV144 is good, but an external pre-amp will help a lot.  My short 7/8" Heliax run helps, too.  

7.  For many EME'ers, initials are as important as new grids.  This means that even a lowly W6 will be in demand when you first get on the air.  You WILL have fun.

73

Eric WD6DBM

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