[Elecraft] Purchasing K3

[Phil Hystad]

> I'm about to buy my first (used) K3. The only known issue with it is a small crack in the knob on the 2nd VFO, which should be easy enough to replace?

Elecraft can replace your knob.


> 
> I also have the serial number and I know its history. It was purchased in the UK as a kit and assembled by a local ham (now silent key). There's no microphone with it and no serial cable., but it does have a power lead and the 100W module.

You can get both from Elecraft.  In my opinion, buying a serial cable from Elecraft is easier than making one so that is what I do.


> 
> How can I find out what year it was supplied, from the serial number.

Send an e-mail to support at elecraft.com and include the serial number and they can tell you month and year of production.

> 
> Is there any point in checking its current revision level, or should I just download the latest firmware and install it?

Download and install latest firmware.

> 
> Are there any known issues that I should especially look for?

Depending on the serial number, there could be some hardware mods.  You can check the mods list for the K3 on the Elecraft web site.  (www.elecraft.com).

> 
> My preferred method of connection to a PC would be a USB cable. Is there a mod to allow USB direct to the K3, or is my perception of the manual correct and I need to use a USB to Serial cable?

Yes, your perception is correct.  Must be serial to USB cable.

> 
> I presume that I will have to order a front panel microphone plug from Elecraft, in order to use one of my electret microphones?

Yes.


73, phil, K7PEH