[InHam] New Rig from ELecraft

[Brian Murrey]

I have been a very satisfied Elecraft owner for the last two years.
They have today just announced a new rig for the camping, hiking,
backpacking amateur radio operator.

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The Elecraft KX1 is a very compact, multi-band CW transceiver optimized
for
backpacking and travel use. With internal battery, internal automatic
antenna
tuner, plug-in keyer paddle, and log-book lamp, it offers a high level
of
integration. The enclosure measures just 1.2 x 3 x 5.3 inches (3 x 7.5 x
13
cm), and the transceiver weighs just 9 ounces (11 ounces with both the
optional ATU and keyer paddle installed).

Unlike most transceivers, the KX1 s controls are located on the top of
the
cabinet, and the keyer paddle attaches at the front. This
trail-friendly
format is ideal for hand-held or lap-top operation, e.g. when sitting on
the
ground, using a camp chair, reclining, or even standing. The KX1 is also
at
home on a table, providing an optimal viewing angle without a tilt
stand. The
unique plug-in keyer paddle is angled at 45 degrees for ease of use and
is
both physically and electrically reversible for right- or left-handed
operators.

The transceiver covers the full 40 and 20 meter bands, and optionally 30
meters. The VFO uses a DDS (direct digital synthesis) IC, so it can also
tune
nearby SWL band segments. A variable-bandwidth crystal filter permits
reception of SSB and AM as well as CW. This facilitates cross-mode
contacts
and reception of HF AM broadcast stations.

The KX1 s internal six-cell battery pack can be changed in seconds with
the
removal of two thumb screws. The battery provides 1 to 2 watts power
output.
An external 12 V supply increases output to about 4 watts. Low
receive-mode
current drain (34 mA typ.) results in internal battery life of 20 hours
or
more during casual operation.

The KX1 uses a highly-efficient 3-digit LED display that adds just 1 to
2 mA
to total current drain in moderate lighting conditions. The operator can
adjust both the display brightness and off-timeout (after last
keypress).
Operation  without the display is possible if the CW feedback feature is
turned on. This provides audible readout of the VFO frequency and other
information.

Additional features include frequency memories, three VFO tuning rates,
RIT,
and S-meter display. The built-in keyer offers Iambic modes A and B and
two
message buffers. In an emergency, two front panel switches can be used
as a
keyer paddle or manual key.

The KX1 is suitable for first-time builders. The basic unit consists of
a
single printed circuit board, with no surface mount components to
install (the
three surface mount parts used are pre-installed).

The KX1 kit sells for $279. First shipments will commence at at the
Pacificon
convention, Oct. 17-19th, and the week following.

For more information on the KX1, including pictures, data sheet and on
line
ordering see the KX1 page at: http://www.elecraft.com


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      KB9BVN/QRP  QRP-L 1540 QRP-ARCI 10223
         39.558 N   86.095 W   Johnson Co., Indiana
     GRID: EM69WN - Elecraft K1 - Attic Dipole - 5w
            Member of the ARRL  - SOC #400
     FISTS 5695  CC 764  FPQRP #-57  Bacon Bits Editor
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