[Elecraft] K4 Questions

[Wayne Burdick]

> On Jun 6, 2019, at 2:28 PM, <n4cc at windstream.net> <n4cc at windstream.net> wrote:
> 
> 1.	I understand that the K4HD will have a selectable feature that would
> allow it to use either the direct sampling or the superhet front end.   If I
> had a K4HD, why would I ever want to switch from the better superhet front
> end to SDR - assuming I already own all the filters?

a)  Direct-sampling passband is flatter than the flattest crystal filter, with no ripple or group delay issues. Better sound on SSB, ESSB, AM, and FM, and possibly lower error rate in some digital modes, DV, etc.

b)  Direct sampling provides a wider bandwidth looking into the DSP, allowing for some advanced noise reduction capabilities including new NR, frequency-offset noise cancellation, etc. These features will be evolving over time.

c)  Turning off the superhet module will allow RX/TX operation near and at the IF (8.215 MHz). 

d)  Current drain will be lower with the HDR module turned off.



> 2.	Will there be a "K4 mini"?  I know I could operate remotely from a
> PC, etc. but would prefer the "real radio" feel with knobs, a plug in
> paddle, etc. and having the panadapter screen in the mini would be a plus?
> I use a K3 mini now but not with a P3.

Maybe. Someday. But I can't say for certain. Another possibility is a "K4/0", i.e. a K4 with only a front panel and host interface module, but in the same size chassis as a K4. Any K4, including a K4/0 or -mini, will be able to control another one.



> 3.	My primary station is built as a remote station in FL in partnership
> with Paul-W9AC.  We use Verizon 4G LTE for internet and are limited to 30 GB
> of data per month (without upcharge).  How data intensive is the K4 with the
> panadapter in remote operation versus the K3S -- assuming it would be
> controlled with a K4 mini or another K4 to get the panadapter feature??

No data on this yet. But you should be able to turn off the panadapter stream if/when you don't need it. Good idea.

73,
Wayne
N6KR