[Elecraft] New Elecraft Product: K-Pod Control Panel for K3S and K3 Transceivers

[Dave W8FGU]

  Hey Wayne,

As usual, an impressive product.

Any chance we might be able to use the knob to emulate the QSY function 
on the P3 in the future? I would love to use that bigger knob to move 
the cursor on the P3. Maybe even set the markers as well.

73,
Dave W8FGU




On 4/13/2016 11:04:50 PM, "Wayne Burdick" <n6kr at elecraft.com> wrote:

>Hi all,
>
>We've had many requests for a small control panel (or pod) as an 
>extension to the K3 and K3S transceivers. We finally got around to it!
>
>Our new K-Pod is a very compact unit, featuring a precision tuning 
>knob, VFO A/B/offset rocker switch, and 8 programmable tactile-feedback 
>switches. Switch feedback is provided by activation messages on the 
>radio's LCD, as well as the pod's own 4 indicator LEDs and audio tone 
>generator. This multi-modal information can help maximize operating 
>efficiency and reduce fatigue during extended operating periods.
>
>Typically the K-Pod would be placed next to a computer keyboard, 
>allowing the operator to quickly QSY, clear RIT, enter diversity mode, 
>change menu settings, etc., without that long stretch to reach the 
>radio's front panel.
>
>But the K-Pod's flexible interface goes beyond substitution of the 
>radio's knobs and switches. In effect, you can design your own 
>customized controls for the radio.
>
>Each of the 8 programmable switches has tap and hold functions. When a 
>switch function is used, it activates one of up to 16 user-defined 
>command sequences that are actually stored in the radio itself, as 
>macros. A single macro can accomplish many tasks at once, such as 
>setting up custom splits, configuring the receiver or subreceiver for 
>specific situations, sending transmit messages at differing code 
>speeds, etc. Macros can be easily created or edited using K3 Utility, 
>which runs on PC, Mac, or Linux platforms.
>
>The K-Pod has the following features:
>
>* high-quality weighted, soft-touch tuning knob--same as used on the 
>K3S
>* same 400-count, ball-bearing optical encoder used in the K3 and K3S
>* adjustable knob friction
>* 3-position rocker switch to assign the knob to VFO A, VFO B, or 
>RIT/XIT
>* 8 programmable function switches, each with tap/hold functions
>* simple switch programming using K3 Utility (many examples in K-Pod 
>manual)
>* four user-definable LEDs (three of them show knob assignment by 
>default)
>* audio tone generator for switch feedback (can be easily turned off)
>* USB port for firmware loading and future equipment/computer control 
>applications
>* simple connection to K3 or K3S--uses the 6-pin RJ-style jack beneath 
>the front panel
>* flexible power source: rear 12-V jack on the radio, DC barrel jack,
>   USB port, or even through the 6-pin data cable, with minor radio 
>modification
>   (the latter method results in a single cable to the K-Pod for data 
>and power)
>* 3 utility outputs for miscellaneous equipment control applications
>   (outputs provide a low resistance to ground when turned on, usable 
>with relays, etc.)
>
>The K-Pod's all-steel enclosure weighs a full pound for excellent 
>stability, yet measures only about 3.5 x 3 x 1 inches. A highly stable 
>folding tilt stand is included to angle the panel for optimal access. 
>There's also a 2-hole RAM mount pattern on the bottom for easy 
>attachment to any surface.
>
>For photos and further information, please visit our K-Pod web page:
>
>   http://www.elecraft.com/k-pod/k-pod.htm
>
>73,
>Wayne, N6KR
>Eric, WA6HHQ
>
>
>
>
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