[Elecraft] KX3 on SSB Mobile

[Matt Zilmer]

Hi Ted,

I'm using the KX3 in a mobile - CW and SSB.  For CW, I think QRP is
working FB.  For SSB, I would recommend the KXPA100.  I've worked SSB
using 5-10W, but it's difficult and can be frustrating, at least with
the small car I have.

My XYL and I drove all over the upper mid-western US last month, using
the KX3 in a Honda Civic.  The antenna on the car is a Hustler 22"
base mast, and I switched resonators around as needed (mostly 20m).
Worked about 150 stations on SSB and about 30 on CW (stationary
mobile).  Had a lot of fun working W1AW centennial stations, etc. Even
broke a few pileups, one to the UK while in Flagstaff, AZ. using 40W.
Timing is everything.  :)

Grounding is very important in a mobile.  In a mobile setting you're
at a disadvantage anyway, but solid chassis grounding makes this a lot
less worse.

I don't know if you're in an RV or a Volkswagen.  In this case, size
can matter....  And the installation details may vary according to the
type of vehicle.

See this page for more information about using the KX3 in a mobile:
http://www.elecraft.com/K2_Manual_Download_Page.htm#KX3
(fifth line item down, including K0BG's web site).  I wrote the first
guide listed, but K0BG has more experience in general mobile ops and
installations.

I had a real blast working stations while mobile.  It is still a Great
Memory(tm) for me.

For SSB, I use ALC metering to indicate optimal mic audio drive, as
described in the KX3 manual. You're pretty safe adding a few clicks of
compression  - say 10 to 15 if using the MH3 mic.  Setting TX EQ up
helps boost useful talk power as well, and there are many articles on
how to do that with the MH3 or any other mic or headset / mic.

Note that I am an Elecraft employee, but I will tell you that the
manual I wrote was written before that time.

73!

matt
W6NIA

On Fri, 31 Oct 2014 03:26:36 +0000, you wrote:

>After a half-century of CW only I am about, at last, to try SSB.  The rig is a KX3 operating from my car, into a Hustler mast with 15 and 20 meter resonators.  For the moment the power supply is the car's cigar lighter; and the headset is Elecraft's standard-issue Heil, which I own but have never used.  So, I am looking for suggestions and advice.
>
>One specific question:  I do not have a 'scope or any other equipment with which to look at the transmitted waveform.  I expect to do some practical experimentation; but are there good starting points for the mic and audio settings, and whatever else, in order to get the most effective and cleanest signal?
>
>Another:  Is SSB mobile on HF with 5 or 10 watts going to be practical, or will it just be frustrating? The plan - now that my life affords the time for it - is to put some rare counties in CO, NM, AZ and WY on the air.
>
>Suggestions, ideas, comments, imperatives, opinions - all are most welcome.
>
>Tnx,
>
>Ted, KN1CBR
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Matt Zilmer, W6NIA
--
"Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will
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