[Elecraft] Upgraded K3 synthesizer module now available: The KSYN3A

[Wayne Burdick]

The KSYN3A synthesizer module for the K3 is a completely new design that improves on the original KSYN3 in several ways. All K3s shipped on or after January 23, 2015 already include the new synthesizer (serial number 8801 and later).

See feature list below. Ordering and installation instructions can be found here:

    http://www.elecraft.com/order_form_parts.htm#K3%20Parts

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NOTE:  If you wish to upgrade a K3 that includes the sub receiver (KRX3), you'll need two (2) KSYN3A modules, since the synthesizers for both receivers must be of the same type.

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KSYN3A FEATURES:

* FASTER CW BREAK-IN AND MORE ACCURATE CW TIMING 

A dedicated coprocessor on the module permits faster transmit/receive switching, improving CW timing accuracy with both internal and external keying. This also speeds up receive recovery between elements.

* ULTRA-LOW PHASE NOISE

The KSYN3A significantly improves the K3's already excellent receive and transmit phase noise characteristics at close carrier spacings. This, in turn, improves its close-spaced receive dynamic range, yielding even better weak signal detection in the presence of strong signals. In transmit mode, the KSYN3A keeps the signal exceptionally clean, further enhancing K3 performance at multi-transmitter stations, Field Day and DXpeditions. 

* 600-METER COVERAGE

The new synthesizer provides complete coverage of 600 meters -- and below. VFO tuning extends down to 100 kHz, with sensitivity gradually falling off below 450 kHz. Receive sensitivity (MDS) at 475 kHz is typically -120 dBm at the RX ANT IN jack. Transmit output of about 1.0 mW is available for use with a suitable external amplifier. (Note: 600-m allocations vary by country. Operation on this band requires the KBPF3 and KXV3 options. For receive-only use, an antenna can be connected to the RX ANT IN jack on the KXV3 module. For transceive operation with an external amplifier, use the XVTR IN and XVTR OUT jacks, and set CONFIG:KXV3 to TEST.)

* EXCELLENT MECHANICAL STABILITY

The KSYN3A is virtually immune to both physical vibration and magnetic coupling, and operates over a very wide temperature range with no change in performance. K3 kit construction is simplified, as the KSYN3A requires no alignment of any kind.

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73,
Wayne
N6KR