ELECRAFT K3 HIGH-PERFORMANCE 160 –6 METER TRANSCEIVER OWNER’ S MANUAL Revision D1, July 27, 2008 Copyright © 2008, Elecraft, Inc.
Contents Buffered I.F. Output...................................... 38 Using Transverters........................................ 38 Scanning ...................................................... 39 A Note to K3 Owners .......................................3 Key to Symbols and Text Styles.......................3 Quick-Start Guide.............................................4 Introduction.......................................................7 M ain and Sub Receiver Antenna Routing......
A Note to K3 Owners Onbe ha l fofoure nt i r ede s i g nt e am,we ’ dl i ket ot ha nkyouf orc hoos i ngt heEl e c r a f tK3t r a ns c e i ve r . The K3—like its predecessor, the K2—reflects our desire to go beyond what other high-performance t r a ns c e i ve r sha veof f e r e d.I ti s n’ tj us tahome -station rig; at about 8 to 9 pounds, it can accompany you whe r e ve ryoug o,whe t he ri t ’ soutt oyourba c kpor c horha l f wa ya r oundt hewor l d.
Quick-Start Guide To get started using your K3 right away, please read this page and the two that follow, trying each of the controls. The text uses braces to refer to numbered elements in the front- and rear-panel illustrations below. For example, {1} refers to 1 , the mic jack. Later sections provide greater detail on all aspects of K3 operation. The first thing you nee d to know about the K3 is that most switches have two functions. Tap (press briefly) to activate the function labeled on a switch.
Connections Connect a power supply to the DC input jack {26} (see Specifications, pg. 8). On the K3/100, a circuit breaker is provided on the fan panel for the 100-W stage {30}. You can power an accessory device from the switched DC output jack {38} (0.5 A max). Connect an antenna to ANT1 {29}. If you have an ATU installed (pg. 22), you can connect a second antenna to ANT2 {28}. If the KXV3 is installed, you can connect a separate RX antenna to RX ANT IN {34}.
VFOs and RIT/XIT R ATE {21} selects 10 or 50 Hz VFO/RIT tuning. See VFO menu entries, pg. 52. F IN E {21} selects 1-Hz steps. C O AR S E selects large steps (MAIN menu, VFO CRS). T ap F R E Q E N T {21} to enter frequency in MHz using numeric keypad & decimal point. T ap return ( ) to complete the entry, or tap F R E Q E N T again to cancel. (Pg. 15.) Hold S C AN to start/stop scanning. SC AN must be preceded by a memory recall (pg. 39).
Introduction This comprehensive manual covers all the features and capabilities of the Elecraft K3 transceiver. We recommend that you begin with the Quick-Start Guide (pg. 4). T he Front Panel (pg. 11) and Rear Panel (pg. 17) sections are for general reference, while Basic O peration (pg. 21) and Advance d O peration (pg. 33) fill in the details. CW and Digital Modes Built-in digital-mode demodulation with t e x td i s pl a ye do nt heK3 ’ sLCD( CW, RTT Y, PSK31) (pg.
Specifications Some specifications apply only if the corresponding option modules are installed (see Options, pg. 44). GENERAL Frequency Range Main and Sub Receivers, 500 kHz - 30 MHz and 48-54 MHz. Transmitter: Amateur bands between 1.8 and 54 MHz; transmit limits vary by country. Tuning Step Sizes 1, 10, 20, and 50 Hz; user-configurable coarse tuning steps (per-mode).
RECEIVER (Main and Sub)* Sensitivity (MDS) -136 dBm (typ.), preamp on, 500 Hz b/w. Reduced sensitivity near 8.2 MHz (first I.F.). 6 m MDS with PR6 option: -143 to -144 dBm (typ.). KBPF3 option required for full general-coverage receive, including broadcast band (0.5 to 1.7 MHz). Note: Sensitivity gradually decreas es below 1.8 MHz due to highpass response of T-R switch. This protects the PIN diodes. IMD3 Dynamic Range > 100 dB typical at 5, 10, and 20 kHz spacing.
Customer Service and Support Technical Assistance You can send e-mail to k3support@ele craft.com and we will respond quickly –typically the same day Monday through Friday. If you need replacement parts, send an e-mail to parts@elecraft.com. T elephone assistance is available from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Pacific time (weekdays only) at 831-662-8345.
Front Panel This reference section describes all front panel controls, the liquid crystal display (LCD), LEDs, and connectors. Operating instructions are covered in later sections. Control Groups Primary Controls (pg 13): These controls provide basic transceiver setup, including power on/off, band, operating mode, AF and RF gain and squelch, AT U and transmit controls, display modes, and menus. Ke ypad (pg.
Display Multi-characte r displays: The 7-segment display (upper) shows the VFO A frequency. T he 13segment display (lower) shows VFO B. VFO Icons: The TX icon and two arrows indicate which VFO is selected for transmit as shown below. In T XT EST mode, TX flashes (see TE S T ). Shows that VFO A or B is locked (see L O CK ). Bar graph, re ceive mode : The bar graph normally acts as an S-meter. If CW T is turned on, the right half of the S-meter becomes a tuning aid (pg. 34).
LEDs Primary Controls TX [Re d] T urns on in transmit mode. B AN D T ap the left / right end of this switch to move to the next lower / higher ham band. V O X Selects voice-operated or keying-activated (CW) transmit ( V OX icon on), or PTT-controlled transmit. Also see D EL AY (pg. 30). ∆F [Yellow] The Delta-F LED turns on if transmit and receive frequencies or modes are different due to the use of SPLIT, RIT, or XIT.
Dual-Concentric Potentiometers Transmit Controls AF — SUB AF gain controls for main receiver (inner, or smaller knob) and sub receiver (outer ring, or larger knob). The primary functions of the transmit controls are: SPEED MI C RF / SQL — SUB RF gain (and/or squelch) controls for main and sub receiver. C MP PW R T wo menu entries are provided to control squelch directly: CONFIG:SQ MAIN, and SQ SUB. They can also be used to reconfigure the RF gain controls as squelch for either receiver.
Direct Frequency Entry Receiver Control & Misc. (Lower Rows) To jump to any frequency within the tuning range of the K3, tap FR E Q EN T , then enter 1 to 3 MHz digits, a decimal point, and 0 to 3 kHz digits. Follow this with Enter ( . . ) to accept or F R E Q EN T to cancel. The decimal point is optional if no kHz digits are entered, making it very easy to get to the low end of most ham bands. Receiver control functions normally apply to VFO A.
Memory Controls Digital Voice/Audio Recorder Frequency Memories T wo switches are dedicated to the DVR (KDVR3 option). The K3 has 100 general-purpose memories (00-99), plus up to 80 per-band memories (M1-M4 on each of 11 regular bands and 9 transverter bands). Each memory holds VFO A and B frequencies, modes, filter presets, antenna selection, and other settings. AF R E C Start / stop audio record AF P L AY Start / stop audio playback When record or playback is active, the appears.
Rear Panel Connector Groups KIO 3 (pg. 18): T he KIO3 is an upgradeable digital and audio I/O module providing computer and auxiliary control signals, single or dual (stereo) speaker outputs, line level in (mono) / out (stereo), and supplemental headphone (stereo) and mic jacks. The appearance of your rear panel may vary depending upon the options installed. Antennas: ANT1 (SO-239) is standard.
KIO3 Module ACC (Accessory I/O) The KIO3 provides serial I/O, control signals, audio in/out for use with sound cards, speaker outputs, and auxiliary headphone and mic jacks. ACC connector pinouts are listed below. ACC is not a VGA vide o conne ctor. The K3 doe s not provide video output. RS232 The RS232 port can operate at up to 38,400 baud. A straight-through cable is required.
Band Outputs (BAND0-BAND3) BAND0-3 provide band selection signals. Their behavior is determined by the CONFIG:KIO3 menu entry. (See tables below.) With CONFIG:KIO3 set to HF-TRN , the BAND0-3 outputs follow the NO R table when HF6 m bands are selected, and the TRN table when a transverter band is selected. BAND0-3 are open-drain outputs. The attached device must provide pull-up resistors (typ. 2.2K) to its own supply voltage (usual 5 VDC).
SPKRS LINE IN ST EREO or MONO; 4 to 8 Ω MONO, transformer-isolated; 600 Ω( n omi na l ) Plugging in external speaker(s) cuts off the internal speaker. A stereo plug is recommended; tip is left speaker, ring is right. If you only have a mono plug, set CONFIG:SPKRS to 1 to disable right-channel audio. (Also see important note below.) This i n pu ts hou l db ec on ne c t e dt oyou rc o mpu t e r ’ s soundcard output.
Basic Operation MAIN Me nu T ap ME NU to access the main menu. (Tapping ME N U again exits the menu.) This section covers the fundamentals of K3 receive a ndt r a ns mi to pe r a t i on. I t ’ l la l s og e ty ous t a r t e d using each of the major operating modes. Use VFO B to scroll through the menu entries, referring to the list on pg. 51 for details. Onc eyou ’ r ef a mi l i a rwi t ht heK3, pl e a s eg oo nt o Advance d Ope rating Fe atures (pg. 33).
Band and Mode Selection Using the VFOs T ap either end of the B AN D switch to select the desired ham band (160 through 6 meters). You can also go directly to any desired frequency using direct frequency entry (pg. 15), or recall a frequency memory (pg. 16). VFO A is both the main receive and transmit frequency, except during SPLIT, in which case VFO B controls the transmit frequency (pg.36). VFO B also controls the sub receiver (pg. 37). T ap R ATE to select 10 / 50 Hz per step.
Receiver Setup Filter Passband Controls This section explains howto use basic receiver controls. Setup for specific operating modes is described in later sections; see Voice Modes (pg. 28), CW Mode (pg. 30), and Data Modes (pg. 31). As you rotate the filter controls (shift, width, hicut, locut), the associated parameter value is shown on VFO B. T he filter graphic shows the width and location of the passband, as illustrated below.
Filter Presets (I/II) Custom Settings (NO RM1 and NORM2) Ea c hope r a t i ngmod ep r o vi d e st wo‘ f l oa t i ng ’f i l t e r prese ts, I and II, which store filter settings on a per-VFO, per-mode basis (excluding FM). They are updated continuously as you change filter settings. (Fixed, per-mod e‘ no r ma l ’s e t t i ng sa r ea l s o available; see below.) In addition to the K3's standard "NORM" values, you can save two of your own setups in each mode, then recall them using the N OR M function.
T he DSP noise blanke r is in the 2nd I.F., where i tc a n’ tb ea c t i va t e db ys i g na l sou t s i d et hec r ys t a l filter passband. It can be used with high-duty-cycle and complex-waveform noise generated by computers, switching power supplies, light dimmers, etc. T he I.F. noise blanke r is in the 1st I.F., where it can use very narrow blanking widths. It is most effective at blanking AC line noise, lightning, and other very broadband noise. Often, a combination of the two is the most effective.
Transmitter Setup VOX, PTT, and QSK In voice and data modes, use V O X to select VOX (pg. 13) or PTT (push-to-talk). PTT can still be used even with VOX selected. Set VOX gain and anti-vox level using MAIN:VOX GN and ANTIVOX. Transmit Crystal Filter Considerations For each operating mode, you must specify which I.F. crystal filter to use for transmit using the CONFIG:FLTX menu entry. See pg. 46 for recommended per-mode transmit filter bandwidths.
External ALC Per-Band Power Control Exte rnal ALC should only be use d to prote ct your amplifie r during ope ration into a faile d load, or during a prolonge d ove rdrive condition. ALC should not be use d as a way to clip or compress fast voice pe aks, or as a primary me ans of amplifie r or K3 powe r output control. If the CONFIG:PWR SET menu parameter is set to NO R , power output on all bands follows the present setting of P W R .
Voice Modes (SSB, AM, FM) Mic Gain and Compression Settings Mode Selection To set up MIC gain and compression level: T ap either end of MO D E to select LS B /US B , AM , or FM mode. Holding the left end of this control, AL T , selects an alternate mode. LS B and US B are alternates of each other. The alternate for AM is AM -S (synchronous AM, pg. 29). In FM mode, AL T enables a repeater offset (pg. 29). Set the monitor level as described earlier. Optionally select TX TEST mode (pg.
Voice Mode VOX Setup AM Operation selects PTT (push-to-talk) or voice-operated (VOX) transmit ( V OX icon on). A 6 kHz (AM) or 13 kHz (FM) crystal filter is required on the RF board for AM transmit and receive (pg. 46). VOX The VOX delay can be set from 0.05 seconds (50 ms) to 2.00 seconds. The lower the setting, the faster the K3 will return to receive mode after a pause in speech. See D E L AY (pg 14).
CW Mode SPOT and Auto-Spot When calling another station, you should try to match your frequency to theirs. To facilitate this, the K3 provides both manual and automatic spotting for use with CW and DAT A signals. See Tuning Aids: CWT and SPOT (pg. 34). CW Normal and Reverse Select CW mode by tapping either end of MO D E . Hold AL T to alternate between CW normal and CW re ve rse ( RE V icon). CW reverse differs from CW normal only in receive mode, using the upper rather than lower sideband.
Data Modes The following data modes are available: Youd on’ tne e dac ompu ter to get started with data modes on the K3: it can decode and display RTTY and PSK31 on its LCD (pg. 33). You can transmit in data modes using your keyer paddle (see CW-toDATA, pg. 34). DA TA A can be used for all A udio-shift transmit modes, including PSK31, MFSK, AFSK, etc. The VFO displays the suppressedcarrier frequency, just as when SSB modes are u s e df ord a t a . US Bi s“n or ma l ”f orDATAA.
RTTY Dual-Tone Filter (DTF) AMTOR / PacTOR Hold D U AL P B to turn on the RTT Y dual-tone filter (DT F). This creates two filters, one centered on the mark tone, the other on space, which can often improve RTTY copy. The filter graphic changes to reflect this (see below). AMT OR, PacT OR and similar modes can reliably transfer data –including e-mail –via HF radio networks. New modes are under development that may provide even greater reliability.
Advanced Operating Features Text Decode And Display DATA Text Decode Setup The K3 can decode CW, PSK31 and RTTY. Decoded text is displayed on VFO B. In data modes ,y ouc a nu s et heK3 ’ si n t e r na l ke ye rt o transmit PSK31 and RTT Y signals (pg. 34). To set up text decode for DAT A modes: Set MO D E to DATA. Then hold D AT A MD and select either AFS K A , FS K D , or P S K D mode using VFO B. T ap AF X to exit the datamode display.
CW-to-DATA Tuning Aids: CWT and SPOT You can use data modes completely stand-alone (i.e., without a computer). Just turn on text de code (pg. 33), and send CW using the internal keyer. T apping CW T turns the upper half of the S-meter into a CW/DAT A tuning aid. If no bar appears in the tuning area, the threshold may be set too high; hold TE X T D E C and select a lower THR value. When a received CW or PSK31 signal is centered in the passband, the CWT display will appear as shown below.
Audio Effects (AFX) Receive Audio Equalization (EQ) If you have stereo headphones or stereo external speakers, y ouc a nt a kea d v a n t a g eo ft h eK3 ’ sDS P audio effects. These create an illusion of greater space, similar to stereo. For many operators, AFX provides a less-fatiguing receiver sound, and it can even improve weak-signal copy. The K3 provides 8 bands of receive audio equalization via the MAIN:RX EQ menu entry.
SPLIT and Cross-Mode Operation General-Coverage Receive Normally, VFO A is used for both receive and transmit. When S PL I T mode is selected, VFO B becomes the transmit VFO. In this case the S P LT icon turns on, the TX arrow points to B (pg. 12) and the yellow delta-F LED ( ∆f ) turns on if receive and transmit frequencies or modes differ. The KBPF3 option module includes band-pass filters that cover the areas between ham bands.
Using the Sub Receiver Sub Receiver Antenna Selection The KRX3 option adds an independent, highperformance sub receiver to the K3. Sub receiver installation is covered in the KRX3 manual. The sub receiver gets its RF input either from the main receiver (sharing ANT 1-2 or RX ANT IN), or from its auxiliary antenna input. (Also see pg. 40.) You can use the sub receiver to monitor two different frequencies or bands, using different bandwidths or modes.
Receive Antenna In/Out Using Transverters The RX ANT IN/O UT jacks, supplied with the KXV3 option, have various uses: Nine user-definable bands are provided for use with transverters. Once enabled, each will appear in the band rotation above 6 m. You can use Elecraft XVSeries or other transverters with the K3. See pg. 18 for transverter control connections. Low-noise re ceiving antenna: Some operators use a Beverage, tuned loop, or other low-noise receiving antenna.
Scanning Channel Hopping The K3's scanning features let the K3 tune any band segment continuously, with or without the receiver muted (Some bands may be excluded from scanning for regulatory reasons.) Scanning can be used to monitor any portion of a band, from a 1-2 kHz range where a station or net is expected to appear, to an entire band. Scanning or manually tuning over a numbered memory range, rather than a frequency range, is referred to as channel hopping.
Main and Sub Receiver Antenna Routing The simplified block diagrams in this section show how antennas are routed to the main and sub receivers. Heavy lines show the default RF path. All antennas are protected from electrostatic discharge by surge arrestors. Receive-only antenna inputs, indicated by asterisks (*), include carrier-operated relay circuitry (C.O.R.). Basic K3 (no KAT3 or KXV3) As shown in Figure 1, the basic K3 is supplied with one antenna jack (ANT1, SO239).
RX Ant. * Includes C.O.R. SA3 * KXV3 KANT3 Ant. Input Module Ant 1 Main RX K2 SA1 KRX3 Aux RF Sub RX K1 SA4 * Figure 2. Main/Sub Re ceive r Routing with KXV3 Installe d K3 with KAT3 ATU The KAT3 internal AT U, which replaces the KANT3 antenna input module, provides a second SO239 antenna jack (ANT 2). As shown in Figure 3, relay K3 routes either ANT 1 or ANT 2 to the main RF path.
K3 with KAT3 and KXV3 Figure 4 shows the antenna possibilities with both the KAT3 and KXV3 installed. The main receiver can use ANT 1, 2, or RX ANT IN. The sub receiver can either s ha r et hema i nr e c e i ve r ’ sRFs ou r c e ,o ru s ei t sAUXRF input. The latter can be either the non-transmit KAT 3 antenna or the AUX RF BNC connector, as described e a r l i e r . I ne i t he rc a s e , t hes u br e c e i ve r ’ sa nt e n namu s tb ei s ol a t e df r omt he transmitting antenna. RX Ant.
Remote Control of the K3 Remote Power On/Off A remote-control system can pull the POWER ON line to ground (ACC connector, pg. 18) to turn the K3 O N. To turn it O FF, the controller must send t h eK3a“PS0;”r e mo t e -control command via the RS232 interface, then deactivate the POWER ON signal. T his sequence ensures that nonvolatile memory is updated correctly before shut-down. With appropriate software, any computer with an RS232 port (or a USB-to-RS232 adapter) can be used to control the K3.
Options Firmware Upgrades K3 option modules and crystal filters add significant new capabilities to the transceiver. T hey can be installed at any time (see pg. 45). All modules are plug-in, requiring no soldering. New features and improvements are available to all K3 owners via firmware upgrades. Upgrades may also be required when you install option modules. Please visit the Elecraft K3 software page (www.elecraft.com/K3/k3_software.htm) to obtain our free firmware download application, K3 Utility.
the filter information table, Appendix A). The default value, 0 . 00 , corresponds to the nominal filter center frequency of 8215.0 kHz. Most 5pol ef i l t e r swi l lha vea nof f s e t ,e . g . “ -0. 91 ” . (T his has no effect on performance; firmware compensates for the offset.) Configuration Configuring your K3 involves installing options and crystal filters, then customizing menu settings. Options come with their own installation manuals.
Transmit Crystal Filter Selection (Per-Mode) Miscellaneous Setup This step applies only to filters on the RF board. We suggest setting up at least the menu entries below. You may wish to reviewthe other menu entries as well, starting on pg. 51. Select CW mode by tapping MO D E . Use VFO B to find the FLTX CW menu entry. Mic Gain / Bias Rotate VFO A to select a CW transmit filter (2.7 or 2.8 kHz). Note: Key clicks may result if a narrower filter is selected for CW transmit.
VFO A Knob Friction Adjustment VFO B Knob Friction Adjustment TheVFOAk nob ’ ss pi nr a t ec a nb ea d j u s t e db y moving the knob in or out slightly. The rubber f i ng e rg r i po nt heVFOAkn obc ov e r st hek nob ’ s set screw, so it must be removed first. Use the supplied 5/64" (2 mm) Allen wrench to l oos e nt heVFOBk nob ’ ss e ts c r e w. Between the knob and front panel is a felt washer which, when compressed, reduces the spin rate.
Calibration Procedures High Power (50 W) Wattmeter Calibration This applies to the K3/100 only. Use the same procedure as shown for 5 watts, but set power to 50 W. The wattmeter calibration menu entry name will change to CONFIG:WMTR HP. All calibration proce dures are firmwarebase d. Ple ase do not adjust any of the trimme r capacitors or potentiomete rs inside the K3; they have been carefully aligne d at the factory. 1.
High Power (50 W) TX Gain Calibration Method 1 (Frequency Counter): This applies to the K3/100 only. Use the same procedure as shown for 5 watts, but set power to 50 W, and use a 50-W dummy load. The TU N E power output indication should be about 50 watts. Calibrate TX gain at 50 W on ALL bands. Locate the CONFIG:REF CAL menu entry. (If the menu entry name is REF xxC, tap 1 to change it to REF CAL). Connect a frequency counter with +/-1 Hz or better accuracy to J1 on the reference oscillator module.
T ap AG C to select slow AGC ( AG C-S ). Front Panel Temperature Sensor Bypass the ATU, if installed, by holding ATU . T urn the K3 OFF. Allow about 15 minutes for the radio to cool to room temperature. Set RF GAIN to maximum (fully clockwise). (Note: I fyou ’ v ea s s i g ne dt heRF gain control for the present receiver to squelch, its RF gain will default to maximum unless you ’ r ec o n t r ol l i ngRFg a i nf r omar e mo t e control computer application.) T urn the K3 ON.
Menu Functions There are two groups of menu functions: MAIN and CO NFIG. Tap ME NU to access the MAIN menu; hold C O NF I G to access the CONFIG menu. You can also hold C ON FI G to switch from one menu to the other. Menu e n t r i e st ha ty ou ’ dl i keq u i c ka c c e s st oc a nb ea s s i g ne dto programmable function switches (pg. 21). T apping DI S P while viewing the menu shows information about the present menu entry in the VFO B display area.
CONFIG Menu Tech Mode Entries Menu entries that include [T] are tech mode entries. These are only visible if CONFIG:TECH MD is set to O N . The ya r eno r ma l l yl e f ta tt he i rd e f a u l t s . En t r i e sf u r t he rd e s c r i b e da s“Advance d”o r“Troubleshooting”s hou l d be changed with caution. The default values are strongly recommended for these functions; tap D I S P to see the default value, which appears in parentheses at the start of the help text.
CW IAMB A CW PADL CW WGHT TIP=DOT 1.15 Iambic keying mode ( A or B ). Both modes produce self-completing dots and d a s he s .Mod eBi smor ee f f i c i e n tf orope r a t o r swhou s e“s q u e e z e ”ke yi ng (pressing both paddles at once), because an extra dot or dash is inserted on squeeze release. Mode A lacks this feature, which may be more appropriate for t h os ewhoonl ypr e s so nepa d d l ea tat i me( o f t e nc a l l e d“s l a p”ke yi ng ) .
FLTX{md} FL1 (all modes) FM DEV FM MODE FP TEMP 5.0 ON N/A FSK POL FW REVS 1 N/A KAT3 Not Inst KBPF3 Not Inst Used to specify which crystal filter to use during T X. {md} = CW /S B /AM /FM . Choose filters with bandwidths as follows: SSB, 2.7 or 2.8 kHz (also applies to data); CW, 2.7 or 2.8 kHz; AM, 6 kHz; FM, 12 kHz or higher. T he FM filter, if present, must be installed in FL1. Note : I fy ou ’ r eu s i nga2 .
LIN OUT NOR 010 Sets the LINE OUT level. LINE OUT connections go to PC soundcard inputs. Settings above 10 may result in overdrive of the soundcard or saturation of the KI O3’ si s ol a t i ont r a ns f or me r s ; mo ni t ors i g na l su s i ngt hePCt oa voi dt hi s . Note : Normally, LIN OUT sets a fixed-level receive-only output for main/sub (L/R), compatible with digital modes.
SER NUM SMT R OF N/A 024 You rK3 ’ ss e r i a lnu mb e r ,e . g . 0 20 0 0 . Cannot be changed. S-Meter offset; see calibration procedure (pg. 50). 014 S-Meter scale; S-9 = 50 uV, S=3 = 1 uV with Preamp = ON, and AGC ON. See calibration procedure (pg. 50). OFF NOR Set to O N for peak-reading S-meter. (Advance d) S-meter mode: When set to NO R , preamp/attenuator settings will affect the S-meter. (The default values of SMTR OF and SMTR SC apply to NO R .
T X DLY NOR 008 T X ESSB [T] OFF T X INH [T] OFF T XGN{pwr} [T] 00 T XG VCE [T] 0.0 dB VCO MD [T] NOR xx (varies w/ VFO freq) SUB VFO B->A Function VFO CRS Per-mode VFO CT S 200 VFO FST 50 Hz VFO IND NO VFO OFS OFF WMT R {pwr} 100 XVx ON NO (Advance d) For use with external amplifiers that have slow relays; sets the time from KEY OUT jack (active low) to first RF in 1-ms steps. To minimize loss of QSK speed, use the shortest delay that works with your amp.
XVx RF 144 XVx IF 28 XVx PWR L .01 XVx OFS 0.00 XVx ADR T RNx Lower edge for xvtr band x ( 1 - 9 ); 0 -9 99 MHz. For frequencies above 999 MHz, use only the MHz digits (e.g., for 1296 MHz, use 29 6 MHz). Tap 1 –9 to select xvtr band. Specify K3 band to use as the I.F. for transverter band x ( 1 - 9 ) . Tap 1 –9 to select xvtr band. I.F. band selections include 7 , 1 4 , 21 , 2 8 , and 50 MHz. Sets upper limit on power level for XVT R band x. T ap 1 –9 to select xvtr band. H x .
Troubleshooting The most common symptoms and their causes are listed below, in three categories (general, transmit, and receive). Most problems are related to firmware or control settings. Subse quent sections cover Paramete r Initializ tion (pg. 61) and Module Trouble shooting (pg. 62). If the problem persists, please contact Elecraft support (see pg. 10) or post a question on our email reflector. General Error me ssage appe ars on the LCD ( E RR P L1 , etc.): Refer to Module Troubleshooting (pg. 62).
impedance. Allow heatsink to cool. Reduce power if necessary. Make sure the CONFIG:PA TEMP menu entry is calibrated (allow heatsink to cool to room temperature, then compare menu reading to actual). ALC O FF is displayed on VFO A during transmit : Set CONFIG:TX ALC to O N . ALC should only be turned off during band-pass filter alignment (do not adjust filte rs without consulting Ele craft support). Can’ tt r a ns mi ti nCW mod e:(1) Make sure the key or keyer paddle is plugged into the correct jack.
Parameter Initialization Menu parameters are stored in non-volatile memory (EEPROM and/or FLASH). It is possible, though rare, for parameters to become altered in such a way as to prevent the firmware from running correctly. If you suspect this, you can reinitialize parameters to defaults, then restore a previously-saved configuration (or re-do all configuration steps manually; no test equipment is required).
Module Troubleshooting The K3 is a highly modular transceiver. With the inf or ma t i onpr ovi d e dhe r e , you ’ l lb et r ou b l e s hoo t i ngt ot h e module level, not to the component level. In many cases, problems can be resolved by changing a menu setting, loading new firmware (pg. 44) or initializing parameters to factory defaults (see below). A full set of schematics can be found on our web site.
Error Message List * = See module de -installation instructions on pre vious page . Error Msg ERR 12V Problem The circuit bre aker on the KPA3 module may be open. PA drops into bypass mode, fans switch to level 2, and PAtemp display mode is not available.
ERR IF1 ERR IF2 ERR IO1 ERR IO3 ERR KEY ERR PTT ERR LPF ERR PA1 ERR PL1/2 ERR SY1/2 ERR SY3/4 ERR SY5/6 ERR VCO ERR VC4 RF board IF GRO UP not responding (A6810 or KNB3-U2) *De -install the KNB3 module on RF board. Note: The K3 cannot be operated without a KNB3, because this module includes T -R switching circuitry. Do not attempt to bypass it using jumpers. Sub RX IF GROUP not responding (A6810 or *De -install the KNB3 module on KRX3 KNB3-U2) first (tap SUB when in the KNB3 menu entry).
ERR REF Missing KREF3 module ERR T XF Invalid transmit crystal filter bandwidth ERR T XG Transmit gain constant out of range ERR XV3 KXV3 not responding 65 Verify that the oscillator can on the KREF3 is fully plugged in. Make sure all internal cables are plugged in between the KREF3a ndo t he rmod u l e s .I ft hi sd oe s n ’ t help, the problem may be on the KREF3 module or the RF board. Note: The K3 cannot be used without a KREF3 module.
Theory Of Operation Please refer to the block diagram of the K3 shown at the end of this section. Schematics and additional details can be found on the Elecraft web site. RF BOARD The RF PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is the heart of the K3 transceiver, both physically and electrically. During assembly, it serves as an attachment point for other PCBs as well as chassis panels, acting as the glue that holds things together. During operation, the RF board provides signal routing to and from all modules.
main BPF array, and due to its very short connections, has no effect on the performance of the main BPFs during ham-band operation. First I.F. Stages The front-left portion of the RF board is dedicated to the receive/transmit first I.F. (intermediate frequency) circuitry, most of which is on the bottom of the board. The first I.F. is 8.215 MHz, which is low enough to permit the construction of high-quality, narrow-band crystal filters, but high enough to offer good image r e j e c t i o n. TheI . F.
through of the local oscillator (synthesizer) signal. The mixer also incorporates a balanced VHF low-pass filter to suppress both internally and externally generated VHF/UHF spurs. T his ke e pst heK3’ sHFs pu rc o mpl e me n t extremely low, despite the use of a down-conversion system architecture. KANT3 and KAT3 The basic K3/10 includes a KANT 3 a n t e nnai n pu tmod u l e .I fy ou ’ veor d e r e daKAT3a n t e nnat u ne r , t he KANT3 is not required and will not be supplied with the kit.
indicators. Mic and headphones can be plugged into the front panel, or optionally at the rear panel (see KIO3 description, pg. 68). The Front Panel PCB also includes the microcontroller unit (MCU), which manages the operation of the K3. All inputs, whether from a switch, knob or external PC, are recognized and acted on by the MCU. All control outputs –such as switching from transmit to receive, sending a CW code element, adjusting the transmitter power, controlling LED brightness, etc.
board. T he KREF3 obtains its DC and low-frequency I/O signals via an 8-pin connector on the RF board, but its RF outputs are fed to the RF board (and sub receiver, if applicable) via coax cable assemblies. KSYN3 Lowpha s enoi s ei ske yt ob o t hr e c e i ve ra ndt r a ns mi t t e rpe r f or ma nc e . I nt heK3’ ss yn t he s i z e rmodule (KSYN3), we start with a clean, wide-range voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO).
K3 Block Diagram 71
Appendix A: Crystal Filter Installation Da ma g et oyo urK3d uet oe l ec t r o s t at i cd i s c har g e( ESD)c a noc c uri fyo ud o n’ tt a kepr op er pre cautions. Such damage is not cove re d by the Ele craft warranty, and could re sult in costly re pairs. We recommend that you use an anti-static mat and we ar a conductive wrist strap with a se ries 1-megohm resistor. An alternative is to touch an unpainte d, grounde d metal surface fre quently while you are working.
Locate the crystal filters you presently have installed in slots FL1 - FL5 on the RF board (or sub receiver). T here may be a mix of 5-pole filters (below left) and 8-pole filters (right). Review the information below to ensure that your crystal filter setup conforms to K3 requirements. You can install up to five crystal filters (FL1-FL5) on the RF board, and five on the sub receiver (KRX3). FM operation requires a 13 kHz wide filter.
Fill in the table below (include sub receiver info, if applicable). Use pencil, since you may change the configuration later. BANDWI DTH can be obtained from the model number of each filter. 5-pole filters have a FRE Q O FFS E T ma r ke do nt hes i d eofoneof t hec r ys t a l s ,e . g . “-0. 8 5” . Theo f f s e tf ora l l 8-pole filters is 0.00.
T urn the K3 right side up. Unplug all filters to be repositioned (those whose mounting screws have been removed). Lift the filters at each end carefully, first one end then the other, until the connectors separate. Reposition the filters as required. They will only fit one way. If you put one in backwards, it will not fit within its outline, and the standoff will not line up with the screw hole in the RF board (or sub receiver board). T urn the K3 (or sub receiver module) upside down again.
Index 12 VDC IN, 17 12 VDC O UT, 17 1-Hz Tuning, 22 6-Me te r Pre amp (PR6), 44 Accessory 12 VDC Output, 17 Accessory I/O (ACC), 18 AFSK A Mode, 31 AFV (Audio Voltmete r), 36, 52 AFX (Audio Effe cts), 2, 35 AGC, 15, 52 Alarm Function, 6, 36 ALC, 26, 27, 28 ALC, Exte rnal, 18, 27, 53, 60 ALT Switch (Alte rnate Modes), 22, 30 Alternate Displays, 2, 36 AM Mode , 2, 28, 29, 73 Amplifie r Module, 10 W, 66 Amplifie r Module, 100 W, 46, 54 Antenna, 5, 6, 17, 22, 38, 40, 44, 48, 50, 60 Antenna Naming, 22 Audio Effe
IF O UT, 38 Inte rme diate Fre quency (I.F.
TCXO , 8, 32, 44, 49, 54, 69 Te mpe rature Sensor, 50, 54, 55, 59 Te rminal Emulator, 43 Te xt De code and Display, 2, 23, 30, 33 The ory Of O peration, 2, 66 Time , 46 Transmit Crystal Filte r, 26, 46, 65 Transmit Inhibit, 18, 19, 27, 57 Transmit Test, 13 Transmitter Se tup, 2, 26 Transve rte r, 2, 8, 9, 18, 19, 38, 48, 54, 60 Troubleshooting, 59 Tuning Aids, 34 Tuning Rate , VFO, 6, 22, 36, 46, 57 TX EQ , 5, 6, 28, 35, 51 TX LED, 6, 26, 44, 59 TX TES T, 5, 12, 18, 26, 28, 30, 34, 55 TXGN, 48, 57 VFO B Al
