1. Elecraft-K3@groups.io
   Date   
Re: K3 supply voltages

David Ferrington, M0XDF
 

Sounds like there is something wrong with that pair. Elecraft have been using APPs for some time, the K100 (K2 Amp) comes with APPs. I have K3 Serial No. 174 and never had a problem. And I’ve used my home made cables at times too.

Never had a problem with any APPs and everything 12v in my Shack and gear is APP, even took the Molex off my FT-857 and replaced it with APPs (the molex was going intermittent!)

73 de David, M0XDF (K3 #174, P3 #108)
-- 
Any hound a porcupine nudges, Can't be blamed for harboring grudges.
I know one hound that laughed all winter, At a porcupine that sat on a splinter.                                                 
- Ogden Nash (1902-1971)

On 28 Apr 2020, at 16:18, Bruce Prior <n7rr@...> wrote:

My K3 is S/N 00158, as stated in my QST review. The power cable came with the radio. Is it possible that very early on, Elecraft did not crimp its Anderson Powerpole connectors? The problem is that there is very little friction to hold the connectors reliably attached to the K3. They slip out far too easily.
73,
Bruce Prior N7RR
Re: K3 supply voltages

Bruce Prior
 

My K3 is S/N 00158, as stated in my QST review. The power cable came with the radio. Is it possible that very early on, Elecraft did not crimp its Anderson Powerpole connectors? The problem is that there is very little friction to hold the connectors reliably attached to the K3. They slip out far too easily.
73,
Bruce Prior N7RR
Re: K3 supply voltages

QUENTIN COLLIER
 

I've also used these connectors (but not on my K3) and find them robust, reliable and good value for money.


73, Quin G3WRR


On Tuesday, 28 April 2020, 14:39:28 BST, Lyn Norstad <lyn@...> wrote:


I have replaced several troublesome APP connectors with these, and have had zero failures:

<https://www.amazon.com/MCIGICM-Upgrade-Female-Bullet-Connectors/dp/B07Q2SJSZ1?ref_=ast_sto_dp>

 

73

Lyn, W0LEN

 

 

From: Elecraft-K3@groups.io [mailto:Elecraft-K3@groups.io] On Behalf Of Bruce Prior
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 11:46 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.

73,

Bruce Prior N7RR
Re: K3 supply voltages

Lyn Norstad
 

Charlie –

 

I made the (not so hard) decision that the only ‘standard’ I need is MY standard.

 

73

Lyn, W0LEN

 

From: Elecraft-K3@groups.io [mailto:Elecraft-K3@groups.io] On Behalf Of Charlie T, k3ICH
Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 9:43 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

Very nice, re-usable and relatively cheap connector, Lyn.

Sure wish they were the standard instead of those one shot, (deleted expletive)  A-P’s !

 

73, Charlie k3ICH

 

 

 

 

From: Elecraft-K3@groups.io <Elecraft-K3@groups.io> On Behalf Of Lyn Norstad
Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 9:39 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

I have replaced several troublesome APP connectors with these, and have had zero failures:

<https://www.amazon.com/MCIGICM-Upgrade-Female-Bullet-Connectors/dp/B07Q2SJSZ1?ref_=ast_sto_dp>

 

73

Lyn, W0LEN

 

 

From: Elecraft-K3@groups.io [mailto:Elecraft-K3@groups.io] On Behalf Of Bruce Prior
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 11:46 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.

73,

Bruce Prior N7RR
Re: K3 supply voltages

Charlie T, k3ICH
 

Very nice, re-usable and relatively cheap connector, Lyn.

Sure wish they were the standard instead of those one shot, (deleted expletive)  A-P’s !

 

73, Charlie k3ICH

 

 

 

 

From: Elecraft-K3@groups.io <Elecraft-K3@groups.io> On Behalf Of Lyn Norstad
Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 9:39 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

I have replaced several troublesome APP connectors with these, and have had zero failures:

<https://www.amazon.com/MCIGICM-Upgrade-Female-Bullet-Connectors/dp/B07Q2SJSZ1?ref_=ast_sto_dp>

 

73

Lyn, W0LEN

 

 

From: Elecraft-K3@groups.io [mailto:Elecraft-K3@groups.io] On Behalf Of Bruce Prior
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 11:46 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.

73,

Bruce Prior N7RR
Re: K3 supply voltages

Lyn Norstad
 

I have replaced several troublesome APP connectors with these, and have had zero failures:

<https://www.amazon.com/MCIGICM-Upgrade-Female-Bullet-Connectors/dp/B07Q2SJSZ1?ref_=ast_sto_dp>

 

73

Lyn, W0LEN

 

 

From: Elecraft-K3@groups.io [mailto:Elecraft-K3@groups.io] On Behalf Of Bruce Prior
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 11:46 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.

73,

Bruce Prior N7RR
Re: K3 supply voltages

Petr Ourednik
 

Bruce,

is it possible to download this article somewhere for non-subscribers please?

--
73 - Petr, OK1RP
--
B: http://goo.gl/Fd2JhJ
MeWe: https://bit.ly/2HGPoDx
MeWe: https://bit.ly/2FmwvDt
--
What could be easier..? ¯‍∖‍_‍(‍ツ‍)‍_‍/‍¯
Re: K3 supply voltages

David Ferrington, M0XDF
 

I second that, everything 12v in my shack etc is APP. only if it has an adapter that goes in a ‘cigar’ socket does in not. 

-73 de M0XDF

On 27 Apr 2020, at 18:49, Alan Baker <g4gnx@...> wrote:


If you're having problems with Anderson Powerpoles, then they've been incorrectly fitted, or are fakes.

They do NOT need soldering, unless it's to a PCB. Crimping is actually more reliable than soldering, provided that the approved crimp tool is used.

Elecraft use the correct tools to fit Powerpoles to cables that they supply. Others may not.

All of the issues I've ever seen with Powerpoles is either badly fitted crimps (usually a cheap crimp tool used), the wrong tab for the cable and shell, or counterfeit powerpoles.

73,

Alan. G4GNX


------ Original Message ------
From: "Bruce Prior" <n7rr@...>
Sent: 27/04/2020 17:46:20
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.
73,
Bruce Prior N7RR
_.
Re: K3 supply voltages

Alan Baker
 

If you're having problems with Anderson Powerpoles, then they've been incorrectly fitted, or are fakes.

They do NOT need soldering, unless it's to a PCB. Crimping is actually more reliable than soldering, provided that the approved crimp tool is used.

Elecraft use the correct tools to fit Powerpoles to cables that they supply. Others may not.

All of the issues I've ever seen with Powerpoles is either badly fitted crimps (usually a cheap crimp tool used), the wrong tab for the cable and shell, or counterfeit powerpoles.

73,

Alan. G4GNX


------ Original Message ------
From: "Bruce Prior" <n7rr@...>
Sent: 27/04/2020 17:46:20
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.
73,
Bruce Prior N7RR
_.
Re: K3 supply voltages

Ray Maxfield
 

Remove ALL other Connectors and Wire Direct to the K3.

Get another power supply for the other stuff,

then you can the  Anderson Poles.   KISS.   

-  WA6VAB   

 

Sent from Mail for Windows 10

 

From: Bruce Prior
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020 9:46 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.

73,

Bruce Prior N7RR

 
Re: K3 supply voltages

Bruce Prior
 

My problem is the finicky Anderson Powerpole connectors, which are far too loose. I commented about the problem in my QST review of the K3 in the April 2008 issue. See page 45 of my otherwise stellar review.
73,
Bruce Prior N7RR
Re: K3 supply voltages

Steve
 

My bet is loss is due to excessive length of your power supply cable.  I found the supplied Elecraft cable had too much loss.  After cutting the length in half and securely connecting directly to the P/S large rear terminals the voltage loss was cut in half.
Re: k3 (usb upgrade), MAC and FT8 , CAT control not working

OZ0J Joe
 

I have no experience with JS8, but have you checked the USB port number in JS8 has not changed?

And when JS8 and the radio is active have you checked the settings for COM port and USB port numbers. Look at the device manager in Windows, if you are using Windows.

 

Also check the baud rate in JS8 if that exists.

 

73 Joe, OZ0J

https://english.oz0j.dk

 

Fra: Elecraft-K3@groups.io <Elecraft-K3@groups.io> På vegne af robert@...
Sendt: 24. april 2020 17:43
Til: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Emne: [Elecraft-K3] k3 (usb upgrade), MAC and FT8 , CAT control not working

 

I have the MIC set to line in and USB selected in the js8 software but still get error message. Rig set to DATA-A.  I have gotten fldigi to work with psk31 but can't figure out what js8 is not working

Re: K3/KPA500 issue

Bart Campbell
 

Gerry,

I had the exact same problem except on 17 meters.  Performing a transmitter gain calibration with the K3 utility solved the problem.

73,
Bart, NS4X



On Sat, Apr 25, 2020 at 4:25 PM Gerry Villhauer <w0gv@...> wrote:
I usually operate CW. When I go to SSB on 75 meters with the KPA500 on, the amp will not put our power; unless I do the following: Go to CW mode and key up for only a second. Go back to SSB mode and I get power. Any suggestions or comments appreciated.

Gerry, W0GV

K3/KPA500 issue

Gerry Villhauer
 

I usually operate CW. When I go to SSB on 75 meters with the KPA500 on, the amp will not put our power; unless I do the following: Go to CW mode and key up for only a second. Go back to SSB mode and I get power. Any suggestions or comments appreciated.

Gerry, W0GV
Re: kat3 tuner not recognized----

Ray Maxfield
 

Found this post,/ Reply for the Same Problem…………… w6vab  Ray

====

Just finished installing the antenna tuner kit (KAT3) in my K3 #888. The hardware disassembly and re-assembly instructions are, as usual, crystal-clear, and that went off without a hitch.

However, when it came to actually bringing the KAT3 up and getting it running, the supplied instructions just say "refer to the K3 Manual."

The problem with that is, the K3 Manual assumes that the antenna tuner unit is either installed and running, or not installed -- and while most of the data needed for bringing up the newly added KAT3 is all in there if you hunt for it, it is in several different places throughout the book. And completely missing was the little tidbit that you have to power down the K3 and then power it back up to get the new KAT3 configuration settings to "take" -- to recognize that the KAT3 is now in there and enabled. Prior to doing this, I just kept getting this "NO ATU" message. (Not too hard -- only took me about 20 minutes to figure out to try recycling power. High "duh factor" there. LOL)

I think the configuration and start-up procedures should be added to the KAT3 kit instructions, so everything is all in one place, part of the overall documentation set for the add-on tuner kit.

Bill W5WVO

-----------------------------------------------

Yeah, I found this rather opaque in the KAT3 installation docs too. When I put mine in, I eventually happened upon what you're supposed to do in p. 47 of the owner's manual under "Option Module Enables".

I concur this should probably be clarified in the KAT3 installation manual, with a more specific reference to the correct place in the owner's manual. I don't recall if it specifies "Option Module Enables" or not, but IIRC it was just good luck that I found it hi hi.

73,
LS
W5QD

 

 

 

 

 

From: Fred-K0FG
Sent: Friday, April 24, 2020 6:56 PM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: [Elecraft-K3] kat3 tuner not recognized

 

K3 with KAT3 installed.   Was working fine, now when I push the atu tune button it says "no atu".   In config menu I set the kat3 option to auto.   Leave the config menu and push the atu tune button and still get "no atu".   The K3 thinks I 
have no KAT3 installed.   What happened?
Fred, K0FG

 
Re: K3 supply voltages

K9MA
 

On 4/24/2020 15:41, Adrian Fewster wrote:
I have always run (many years) my Elecrafts at 15.6v .

There are a couple 15 V zener diodes across the supply line to provide protection (BZW50-15). They are specified to conduct less than 1 mA at 16.6 V, so 15.6 should be safe. However, Elecraft specifies 15.0 max.

73,

Scott K9MA

-- 
Scott  K9MA

k9ma@...
Re: K3 supply voltages

Adrian Fewster <vk4tux@...>
 

I have always run (many years) my Elecrafts at 15.6v .Volt drop while TX at ~15.1v or better, without issue.

Make's for a much cleaner TX signal specially with amp use. Just keep it under 16v.

If your cable supply is good enough you shouldn't see more than 0.5v volt drop


Adrian Fewster


vk4tux

On 25/4/20 3:46 am, David G3YYD via groups.io wrote:
Yes. Many turn the PSU up to 14.4volts.
Re: K3 supply voltages

Clay Autery
 

Personally, I would consider that an entirely unacceptable voltage drop.  Though it is within the operational capability of the radio, it will affect efficiency of transmit.

It could be any number of issues....  bad regulation in the PSU.  DC wire between radio and PSU too long and/or too small of a gauge...  Too much total load on the PSU, etc, etc....

Lots of discussions on this topic in the Elecraft Reflector archives.... don't know about here.

73,

______________________
Clay Autery, KY5G
(318) 518-1389
On 04/24/20 11:38, KE1F Lou wrote:


I accidentally discovered the supply voltage display on my K3.

The K3 is run from a DM330MV regulated power supply.

10 watts tune mode
Rx voltage 13.7V
Tx voltage 13.3V
Voltage drop 0.4V

100 watts tune mode
Rx voltage 13.7 V
Tx voltage 12.3 V
Voltage drop 1.4V

Is such voltage drop normal?
What is normal?

73 Lou KE1F
_._,_._,_
Re: K3 supply voltages

Ray Maxfield
 

After looking at the manual for Your Power Supply…..

Do Not Use the Banana Plugs for Your Connectors.

They are NOT Rated for that much Current.

MAYBE 5 Amps if you get the Best ones.

Strip and Wrap the Wire All the way Around the Terminals,

Red and Black.    WA6VAB K3 # 3824

 

 

From: Richard Smith
Sent: Friday, April 24, 2020 9:48 AM
To: Elecraft-K3@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Elecraft-K3] K3 supply voltages

 

There was a long discussion on voltage drop month or so ago.  Short answer 1.4 bad.  Per discussion, I adjusted my PS to 14.4 volts, shorted and direct connected power cord to power supply, getting rid of DC Anderson distribution hub.  Now K3S read 14.4, drops to 14.1.    Someone may be able to point you to the thread.

 

RAS



On Apr 24, 2020, at 11:38 AM, KE1F Lou <lmecseri@...> wrote:

 

 

I accidentally discovered the supply voltage display on my K3.

 

The K3 is run from a DM330MV regulated power supply.

 

10 watts tune mode

Rx voltage 13.7V

Tx voltage 13.3V

Voltage drop 0.4V

 

100 watts tune mode

Rx voltage 13.7 V

Tx voltage 12.3 V

Voltage drop 1.4V

 

Is such voltage drop normal?

What is normal?

 

73 Lou KE1F 

 

 

Sent from my Galaxy Tab® A

 

 
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