[Elecraft] External sound card advice needed to attach to K3

[Dave Fugleberg]

The advice to use a separate sound card just for the radio is wise, and
makes the use of the computer much more convenient for multiple tasks. For
radios like the K3S, this additional 'sound card' is built into the radio,
so there's no reason not to use it.  For those of us (like me) with a K3
without a USB port, an external USB card is a great option.

However, it is entirely possible for someone to configure Windows to use
that card as the default as well, defeating the purpose of separate sound
cards. In fact, Windows may "helpfully" do so itself when a new sound card
is detected. So, adding a second card is great, but the PC must still be
correctly configured.

Bottom line is that people need to learn enough about their equipment
(INCLUDING their computer) to configure it correctly, and to troubleshoot
issues that arise.  No different than learning to properly adjust a
transmitter or amplifier for a clean signal - it goes with the territory.

I believe the original poster simply wanted a recommendation on what sound
card works well for digital modes.  I think you'd be hard pressed to find a
modern sound card that didn't - digital modes are not exactly demanding in
terms of a high end sound card.  Personally, I use this one with my K3 -
https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-External-Adapter-Headphone-Microphone/dp/B01HPMHOY0
 UGreen model 30420. They go for about 20 bucks.

It's a combination of a sound card and a 3 port USB hub. I have it
installed in the rack where my K3, P3, and Winkeyer live.  The USB to
RS-232 cable for the K3/P3 plugs into one of the ports on the hub, and  the
Winkeyer to another. Standard 1/8 inch audio cables connect the audio
in/out from the UGreen device to the audio in/out on the K3.  The single
USB cable from the UGreen device goes to the PC via a short USB extension
(the cord on the device is only 6 inches long).  I've used this for over
three years with no problems, for AFSK RTTY, SSTV, FT8, etc. as well as rig
control and CW keying.  All with one USB cable from the rack to the PC.
Very convenient.

On Fri, Jan 1, 2021 at 8:37 PM Rick Bates, NK7I <rick.nk7i at gmail.com> wrote:

> If it's insisted to use the OS sound card; one should make sure that the
> audio driver (slightly harder to access in Win 10) does not allow local
> microphone (web cam or often built into a laptop) to be accessed EVER
> (by disabling it AND reducing the level to zero), lest it find a path
> into the transmitter.  Checking after each update is required; levels
> and setting CAN change then (check 'listen' tabs  to deny as well).
>
> That is the same issue as those who choose a mic input for (computer
> audio) digital TX, yet fail to disconnect the mic during digital
> transmitting, so both go live and unintended station sounds are
> transmitted with the wanted digital tones.  (head slap!)
>
> Again, a rig costs hundreds plus, a computer (except Pi) does also; yet
> there is resistance to adding a $20 item to make legality simpler to
> meet... not a significant price.
>
> Phil, you're correct in that it merits a question on the test; it's that
> common an error.  (No, I won't poke the bear, except to get a better
> photo, hi  and only from a safe distance).
>
> HNY,
> Rick NK7I
>
> On 1/1/2021 5:47 PM, Phil Kane wrote:
> > On 1/1/2021 5:11 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
> >
> >> Just make sure your OS does not set the external soundcard as
> >> default. Windows often does that when you first install it - check
> >> the soundcard settings.
> >
> > The Winlink VARA setup instructions make this very clear, although I
> > have never experienced a Win 10 update turning my OS sound selection
> > on after I have turned it to "No Sounds".
> >
> > 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane
> > Elecraft K2/100   s/n 5402
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