[Elecraft] Signalink and K3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

 > That's what I'm trying to figure out.  What are those problems?

Probably the best place to start for issues with Signalink is:
    http://www.frenning.dk/OZ1PIF_HOMEPAGE/SignaLinkUSB-mods.html

In general (at least in the case of the original units):

1) the Signalink design lacks a regulator for the V/2 bus that
    provides both a reference for the CODEC and the audio op-amps.
    The manufacturer of the CODEC (TI) calls for the V/2 regulator
    in the product data sheet and extensive audio design experience
    recommends regulation of the V/2 voltage in op amp circuits.

2) the Signalink is USB powered.  However, the USB power is not
    adequately filtered or decoupled placing digital noise from
    the computer on the Signalink power bus (and coupling into
    both transmit and receive signals).

3) the Signalink uses low quality audio isolation transformers
    which create significant "tilt" across the passband

4) the Signalink internal PTT circuits require the CODEC output
    be run wide open for reliable PTT action.  At lower voltages
    (and without regulation), the CODEC generates significant
    distortion at maximum output.

5) the Signalink internal power distribution lacks proper by-pass
    and decoupling resulting in both noise and audio crosstalk
    distribution via the power circuits.

6) In spite of the use of transformers, the unit still appears
    to be susceptible to a "pin 1 problem" and RF feedback -
    probably due to a number of the previous problems and most
    likely due to the lack of proper filtering/decoupling of the
    USB power source.

 > There's a fix in a recent QST (this summer) for one of them. W4TV
 > identified another one.

The referenced fix (August, Hints & Kinks) addresses the lack of
regulation an noise to the Op Amps but not many of the other issues.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV



On 2014-11-11 4:51 PM, Alan wrote:
>  > There's a fix in a recent QST (this summer) for one of them. W4TV
> identified another one.
>
> That's what I'm trying to figure out.  What are those problems?  Is
> there any reason it wouldn't work fine with Winmore modulation format on
> WinLink?
>
> Alan N1AL
>
>
>
> On 11/11/2014 12:57 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
>> On Tue,11/11/2014 11:41 AM, Alan wrote:
>>> So what's the problem with the SignaLink?
>>
>> There's a fix in a recent QST (this summer) for one of them. W4TV
>> identified another one. Several years ago, I saw a "fix" on the DX Eng
>> website that strongly suggested a Pin One Problem. And it's a single
>> channel device -- the ones I've recommended are two-channel (stereo),
>> so can be used for SO2R.
>>
>>> The SignaLink USB is the recommended sound card for Winmor on WinLink
>>> 2000:
>>>
>>> http://www.dtreg.com/Getting_Started_with_Winlink_and_WINMOR.pdf
>>
>> Lots of statements taken as gospel originate with people who are not
>> qualified to make them, and are repeated by others who are equally
>> unqualified to do so.
>>
>> 73, Jim K9YC
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