+++++++++++++++++++++++ From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] amp - The Final Word Hi Guys, Here's the final word on the PA option for the K2. The K2 is designed as a QRP rig in its basic form, and we have always planned to offer it as a QRO radio with the PA option. We're working on the 100W PA right now. The next proto PCB is due back next week. We will probably do another turn or two of the PCB before release as we finalize the mechanicals and interface to the heatsink. It should be released before the end of this year. (It was delayed somewhat while we caught up with the demand for the basic K2 and its options.) The PA is designed to be a swap out replacement for the top cover of the K2. It comes with its own top cover so you can easily swap covers between QRP and QRO mode. (About five minutes to change.) The PA is officially offered as an 'internal' option for the K2 to stay within FCC restrictions on 'External' general purpose PAs (kit or built) that reach their rated power with less than 50W in. (see part 97..) Note: You, as a builder, can certainly mount it in the external EC2 project chassis and stay within FCC rules, since the EC2 is exactly the same size as the K2. :^> The KPA100, as it will be called, requires data communication with the K2 over a simple cable for proper operation. It is not a general purpose amplifier for use with other radios. It has its own PIC processor and will - -refuse- to transmit on the 27 MHz CB band. (The K2 will also refuse to transmit out of band when the amplifier is in line and active, but it will transmit anywhere when in its native low power mode, or when the KPA100 is in bypass mode, for use with transverters.) 6. The KPA100 has a relay to bypass it when you want to operate efficiently just using the K2's internal QRP PA. As a final note, both Wayne and I feel that we must address both the QRP and QRO arenas if we are to be a successful company. The Roots of Elecraft certainly come from the QRP area, so we will always offer efficient QRP rigs in addition to QRO offerings. I'll post more on the KPA100 here and on the web page as we get closer to release. 73, Eric ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2000 08:27:08 -0700 From: Wayne Burdick Subject: [Elecraft] driving an amp w/KAT2 installed There are three possibilities: (1) put the ATU into "CALP" or "CALS" mode, in which the inductance and capacitance are both zero; this will provide a reasonably low SWR for driving the amp; (2) put the ATU into "AUTO" mode and tune up on all bands into a 50-ohm dummy load, then put the ATU into "POUT" mode, where the tuned L and C will be held constant after you connect the amp; (3) just leave the ATU in auto mode and drive the amp initially at low power, allowing the KAT2 to find the best match between the K2 and the amp's input. An added benefit of the KAT2 is its dual antenna jacks: you could tune up into a dummy load on all bands for ANT1, to be used with the amp, but leave ANT2 tuned up on each band for direct connection of the antenna to the K2. When you connect the amp, switch to ANT1 on each band. In most cases any of the three options would work. 73, Wayne N6KR +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The KAT2 is designed to handle (maybe) 25W of RF power, and it'd certainly NOT handle the 100W of RF from the (kinda) soon-to-be-released 100W amp. Elecraft WILL be offering a 100W+ autotuner to go with the amp as well. But it will NOT be available at the same time as the amp. 73 - Tom Hammond N0SS +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2000 11:59:58 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 100W Amp The upcoming K2 100W PA (KPA2) is contained in a top cover that replaces the existing K2 top cover. The EC2 chassis is exactly the same size as the K2, so the PA top cover will fit in either. The PA is designed to only work as an integral part of the K2, not as a general purpose amp. (The uC inside the PA must talk to the K2 uC for the PA to operate.) You can certainly split it apart from the K2 and mount it in the EC2 if you wish by running a control and RF cable between the two boxes. The KAT2 ATU is actually rated at 20W or better, but it will not handle 100W. The PA uses the same space as the KAT2/battery if it is mounted inside the K2, so you can't have both at once inside the K2. You can swap top covers to go from QRO to QRP only operation, or mount the PA in the EC2 chassis. The PA also has a bypass mode for regular QRP operation when it is mounted inside the K2. I have the latest PA PC board built up and on my test bench. It looks great so far. Stay tuned.. 73, Eric WA6HHQ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001 12:25:19 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 and 160m Absolutely! The PA covers 160M - 10M. 73, Eric "David A. Belsley" wrote: On a related issue, I do not know if the upcoming 100 watt PA will > accommodate 160 meters. Eric, can you let us know whether this is the case > or not, or whether a 160 meter option will be available for it? - --- ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 17 May 2001 19:26:47 -0400 From: "Don Wilhelm" Subject: Re: [Elecraft] FAQ Regarding the KIO2 and PA Stuart and all, No external connector to the existing power connector is my guess - there is an AUX PWR connector on the RF board. If one has the internal battery, it is used, BUT with the PA cover on the K2, the internal battery will not be there, so it seems like an obvious way to get the ppower to the base K2 to me. 73, Don Wilhelm -Chapel Hill, NC W3FPR home page: http://www.qsl.net/w3fpr/ QRP-L # 485 K2 SN 0020 mailto: w3fpr at arrl.net - ----- Original Message ----- From: "Stuart Rohre" > connector. Am not sure if you will have to use both, but likely there will > be a jumper to the old one from the new cover. Atlas did such a back panel > trick in the TX 110/RX110 combo into a transceiver from RX 110 receiver > alone configuration. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Sun, 03 Jun 2001 10:21:16 -0500 From: Tom Hammond =?iso-8859-1?Q?N=D8SS?= Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 contacts and KPA100 questions --- snip the k2 contacts material due to subject area --------------- >Another question, is there a rough schedule on the KPA100? I know it is >in pre-production stage. Does it need to go to a lengthy field test or is >this ongoing now? I don't need the exact dates but I just want to know a >rough plan/timeline. Here's where the "What little I know" comes in... The (working) KPA100 WAS at Dayton, so it's not 'vapor ware'. I was hoping the FTs would receive it in time for a wring-out at Field Day, but no chance. I believe that it's pretty well 'matured' EXCEPT that the main PA PC board will have to be re-designed to move the LPF to a different location than it is now situated. Turns out that it's (LPF) currently (if I recall from a very brief glance at it) located immediately above (by only fractions of an inch) the K2's CW Xtal filter. A location which Wayne is concerned that about signals creeping between the two devices. Elecraft wants to re-locate the PA's LPF somewhere that it won't have the potential for poccibly causing spurious problems. As a result there will have to be a board re-design... which, I believe is currently being addressed!!! A timeline??? I'm afraid to guesstimate... several possible relese dates have been intimated in the past, and missed... I don't think anyone will leak anything until it's ready... remember, not only do they have to meet their own design standards, BUT they also have to meet the FCC's standards... so all I can say is that things ARE moving in the right direction... and as rapidly as they can push them, given their desire to make it as ready-for-prime-time as possible on the FIRST release. 73 - Tom Hammond N0SS +++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 12 Jul 2001 14:30:38 -0500 From: "George, W5YR" Subject: [Elecraft] Ten Tec Amplifier Situation Take a look at Http://tentec.com/Noamp.htm for a revealing look at the TT attitude re add-on power amps for QRP rigs. They make it very clear that there will NEVER be such an option for their new 516, and stongly imply that the Elecraft PA is probably illegal to sell. I hope that Wayne and Eric understand all this better than I do! <:} - -- 72/73, George W5YR - the Yellow Rose of Texas QRP-L 1373 NETXQRP 6 Fairview, TX 30 mi NE of Dallas in Collin county EM13qe Amateur Radio W5YR, in the 55th year and it just keeps getting better! Icom IC-756PRO #02121 Kachina #91900556 IC-765 #02437 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Thu, 12 Jul 2001 17:34:20 -0700 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Ten Tec Amplifier Situation Hi, Copied below is our original post to rec.radio.amateur.equipment on this topic back in April. It was in answer to a question from Tom, W8JI (of Ameritron fame). (The following discussion of the KPA100 replacement PA and the K2/100 radio relates to unreleased products. They will not ship unless we are comfortable that we will be offering products that fall within the FCC rules.) We see no problem with selling a K2/100 radio as a single unit, since it would be an integrated 100w radio. What falls into the gray area of FCC rules interpretation is whether we can sell the KPA100 module as a 'replacement/repair part' for the K2/100 radio, and by inference for the K2. We certainly feel this is OK, as we note below. The KPA100 is not simply a dumb RF deck. It's internal micro controller controls its actions and must talk to the K2/100 or K2 micro controller in order to function. It will not operate with other, non-Elecraft, radios. We feel it is an integral part of the K2/100 'as manufactured' and as a result we can sell it as a replacement part. That said, Ten-Tec's posting shows that they interpret the FCC definition of an external amp differently than we have. This centers around the FCC rule phrase 'integral part of a radio transmitter as manufactured' (see below). Ten-Tec claims that if the PA is separable from the rig, even if it can't operate without the exact same rig connected, it can not be classified as an 'integral part as manufactured.' I'm following up with Scott Robbins at Ten-Tec to see if they can produce copies of their past correspondence with the FCC. Their conversations took place over 10-15 years ago with respect to a clip on rear PA unit for one of their QRP rigs. So far they haven't been able to find the letters. One other thought: KW PA manufacturers (Alpha, Ten-Tec, Ameritron etc.) are precluded from selling their PAs with 12/10M coverage by the same FCC rule section. Yet they appear to be allowed by the FCC to tell customers how to enable this frequency range after sale when the buyer provides proof of their FCC amateur license. I guess this method could be a fall back position for us if we conclude that Ten-Tec's interpretation is correct. In any case, we are certainly pursuing this to make sure we don't get in trouble with the FCC. We'll post more info here as we get it. 73, Eric WA6HHQ P.S. None of the above applies to export only versions of these products. ======================================== Subject: Re: Elecraft K2 100W PA Date: Fri, 06 Apr 2001 12:00:08 -0700 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Reply-To: eric at elecraft.com Organization: EleCraft Newsgroups: rec.radio.amateur.equipment Hi Tom (and the group), I just came across this thread. I guess I should reply so you can hear our 'official' position. In no way do we want Elecraft to be associated with the illegal CB amplifiers flooding the market. Period. Simply stated, the KPA100 internal PA option for the Elecraft K2 does not require FCC certification as per part 97.315 and 97.317. It is considered an "integral part of the radio as manufactured." This definition (§2.815 of the FCC rules - see below) clearly separates RF amplifier modules that are an integral part of a radio from those that are stand alone external amplifiers. We will be selling the K2 kit in two configurations: With and without the 100W PA component. This is identical to past legal radio offerings from Japan that came in two power flavors (IC-730 <100W> and IC-730S <10W>). Existing K2s can be upgraded to 100W by adding the internal KPA-100 as a replacement part. Since we are offering an internal PA module that is "an integral part of a radio" and that -only- works with the K2, we are in good shape. You can -not- easily modify our PA to run with another radio besides the K2 or in the 27 MHz CB band. It is quite a different animal from an easily modifiable 'hardware only' PA. The amplifier's micro controller is integral to its proper operation (T/R timing, band selection, power control, thermal shutdown, SWR protection etc.) The amplifier module will not operate unless it is talking to the K2's main processor over our internal 'AUX BUS.' In addition, the K2 will refuse to TX on the 27 MHz CB band through the PA. (It is a heck of a lot harder to modify the KPA100 for illegal use than it is to modify any of the legally sold Ameritron, Alpha, Ten-Tec, JA amplifiers or JA rigs.) For your reference: 97.315(b) states: "Any external RF power amplifier or external RF power amplifier kit (see §2.815 of the FCC Rules), manufactured, imported or modified for use in a station or attached at any station must be certificated for use in the amateur service in accordance with Subpart J of Part 2 of the FCC Rules." § 2.815 defines External radio frequency power amplifiers as: "(a) As used in this part, an external radio frequency power amplifier is any device which, (1) when used in conjunction with a radio transmitter as a signal source is capable of amplification of that signal, and (2) is not an integral part of a radio transmitter as manufactured." As noted above, the KPA-100 -is- an "integral part" of the K2 as manufactured. That said, we definitely must test the design to make sure it meets the FCC spurious and harmonic rules before we release it. Its gotta be clean! We appreciate all the interest here and certainly do not want to go astray of the FCC rules. If I've missed something, please drop me an email (I don't read this group regularly) and I will look into it immediately. 73, Eric Swartz WA6HHQ http://www.elecraft.com =============== Tom W8JI wrote: > > I wouldn't know how the FCC would react to an inside-the-radio PA kit > that was not part of the original kit. > > I would expect it would be OK as long as it was inside the radio, and > not easily used outside the radio, but hey...who knows. Technically > they could take all the external PA's we use off the market. > > 73 Tom +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Wed, 01 Aug 2001 19:22:51 -0700 From: Wayne Burdick Subject: [Elecraft] the KPA100 will be 100 W output The QST article in question was in error. The unit we showed at Dayton was 100 W output, and that's what's planned for production. We have at times mentioned 50 and 75 W as alternatives, but we're trying to purge all of these references from documentation (including the web). Sorry for the confusion. If we decide to *also* do a KPA50, or perhaps a KPA37.5, etc., we'll let you know ;) 73, Wayne N6KR +++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Sat, 06 Oct 2001 09:39:17 -0700 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Problems with the Amp ?? At this point there are no FCC issues with the 100W version of the K2. Since the 100W PA section of the radio is internal to the K2 and part of the K2/100 'as manufactured', it does not fall under the FCC rules for external PA's, or external PA kits, and as a result does not require FCC certification. The K2 will be available with or without the parts for 100W output. We plan to offer an upgrade kit of parts for 10W K2s (including existing K2s) to bring them up to 100W. It is important to note that the 100W option is integral to the K2 and will not operate as a general purpose stand alone PA with other rigs. It is tightly integrated with the K2, requiring constant communication between its CPU and the main CPU in the K2 to operate. The PA stage can be enabled/disabled via a K2 menu entry. This will allow 100W K2s to still operate in 'QRP mode'. When the 100W option is enabled the K2 will refuse to transmit below 28 MHz or above 25 MHz. (i.e.. No 11M/CB 100W TX) We've remained quiet on the PA while we finish it in order not to 'over promise' on its delivery date. (I get beat up on dates a lot... ;^) It is our top project at the moment and I'm in the lab doing testing on it today. (I eat, sleep, and dream about the PA these days.) The delays to date have been due to time and resource limitations, not technical or FCC related. In addition a number of the components on the PA kit have long lead times from their manufacturers (like the custom extruded heat sink). Wayne and I are still the primary Elecraft engineers, and our time is split between a number of projects and running the business. Early on we decided to run Elecraft as a profitable ongoing business rather than hiring a large staff, grabbing market share and losing money in the hope of future profitability. We have grown steadily over the past several years and we try to add new products steadily as we grow. We also will not release any product until its ready for prime time. Its gotta be rock solid and easy to build with good documentation before we ship it! We plan to be around for the long run.. In any case, its coming soon. Stay tuned! 73, Eric WA6HHQ ======== Fred Bennett N9TA wrote: > I haven't heard anything "Official" about the Amp option > for quite some time. +++++++++++++++++ Date: Sun, 07 Oct 2001 18:35:51 -0700 From: Wayne Burdick Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Couple of wonderments Hi Steve, > Re: the upcoming KPA - how will the ATU be accommodated? If you install the PA, you can't also have the KAT2 and the battery. But in any case the KAT2 is QRP-only (20W or less), so we'll have to design a new external tuner kit. -- snip -- 73, Wayne N6KR +++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001 16:41:43 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick Subject: [Elecraft] Update on the KPA100 Eric won't let me put a firm shipping date or price on the KPA100, and I won't let him, either. But I can tell you what we have left to do. We expect to receive a limited run of production KPA100 boards in December. These new boards reflect substantial improvements and changes over the first prototype, which we finished testing recently. We're erring on the side of safety, ease of alignment, and bulletproof operation, which is taking longer than we'd hoped. The instant the production boards arrive, Eric will build the first unit while I complete the firmware. Then he'll test it, while I write the manual. Once we're happy with the production boards, we'll do a field test. This will involve at least 10-20 units. I don't think we'll be needing additional testers, but if we do, we'll announce it. (Please DO NOT call Lisa and volunteer at this point.) That's all the detail I can provide right now. Please hold all further questions until after our next status update, which I'm sure will answer most of them then. To summarize: we're feeling the heat, and fortunately most of it is coming from the heat sink! 73, Wayne N6KR +++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 10 Dec 2001 09:35:03 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick Subject: [Elecraft] Re: K2 QRO Unifiedtx at aol.com wrote: > If the heat sink > covers the whole top of the rig, where will the speaker be mounted? I can't > imagine a place would be provided on the heat sink. The MH2 picture does not > show a speaker cut-out on the left side panel, and I hope it is not mounted > on the right side panel (in my case because I have a handle on that side). Hi Roy, The prototype in the photo did not have the heatsink milled out for the speaker. For production, we'll be using the same speaker we use in the K2 at present, and it will be mounted on the heat sink, not a side panel. Power output is 100 W. Efficiency and current drain will be in line with other 100 watt amplifiers. 73, Wayne N6KR +++++++++++++++++ Date: Fri, 04 Jan 2002 11:48:37 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: EleCraft CC: Elecraft Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Product Idea Unfortunately the FCC would definitely treat this as us selling an -external- 100w amplifier, which is prohibited in the 100W output class (the 'CB amp' rule). You as an individual ham can modify your equipment to your heart's content though. If you do it on your own, no problem. If we sell it specifically set up to do this with an 'external amplifier' machined panel, its a problem. We -do- plan to offer a QRO version of the KAT2 auto tuner that fits in the bottom part of the EC2 blank project chassis. By the way, we're about to go into Field Test on the K2/100. I spent part of this week at our CNC machine shop looking at final heat sink prototypes. Stay tuned! 73, Eric > -----Original Message----- > I would like to see the EC-2 enclosure machined to accept the KPA-100 and > appropriate cables and connectors. Roy W4WFB ++++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 08 Jan 2002 14:46:28 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: EleCraft To: Fred Bennett N9TA CC: Elecraft Reflector Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2 amp cost?? Hi Fred, We're shooting for $329-$349 range (which includes KIO2 functionality). We're about to enter Field Test and will have a better feeling for the total costs shortly. The latest pre-production PC boards are arriving from the fabrication house here tomorrow. They tell us it looks great! I'll post updates here. This is our top project and is now (finally!) moving rapidly.:^) 73, Eric WA6HHQ ========= Fred Bennett N9TA wrote: > I may have allready missed it.....but is there any info out yet > on the cost of the amp option?? Even a ballpark figure?? ++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2002 15:14:10 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: =?iso-8859-1?Q?KC=D8IFL?= Cc: Elecraft List Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Eric WA6HHQ Worked from Missouri I was running K2 S/N 00002 (with K2/100 option) . I wish I was getting paid to get on the air ;^). Actually, I'll get paid when we ship the K2/100! (Before Dayton) For those who asked, the 100W high power option for the K2 does include a speaker. We machine out a pocket below the top heat sink fins on the top cover/heatsink for the speaker. 73, Eric +++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2002 16:06:12 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: kb1dxc Cc: Elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 question When the K2 power setting is set to below 11W it automatically bypasses the final 100W stage and operates in a finer resolution QRP mode. Turning the power control up above 11W switches back into 100W mode. 73, Eric WA6HHQ kb1dxc wrote: > > Hi Folks, > > Does anyone know if the K2 will still be usable as a QRP rig > while the proposed 100 watts is part of the rig? I would hate to > think that every time I wanted to run QRP that I would have to switch > the lid. ++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2002 16:40:01 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: "David A. Belsley" Cc: kb1dxc , Elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 question If you want to run totally in QRP mode, regardless of if you are above the 11W power setting, just power off the PA 13.8V supply and supply power to the K2 through its regular 2.1mm power connector. (Both power connectors are diode isolated from each other and can be powered concurrently.) The K2 automatically detects when the PA power supply is turned off or on. 73, Eric WA6HHQ "David A. Belsley" wrote: > > This feature is very cute, but is there a possibility of having the > switch-over threshold set in the menu. It is nice to be able to run the K2 > barefoot at 15 or so watts without having the PA cut in? > dave, w1euy +++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2002 17:11:27 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: Tom Cc: Elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 question Hi Tom, Sorry for the confusion. The design is complete, but we haven't released the K2/100 and its internal completion kit for sale yet. They should be shipping before Dayton happens in mid May. We have released the extruded heatsink design prints to the fabricator and we should have volume production parts in house for our K2/100 field test in about 5 weeks. I have been on air testing the finished K2/100 production design the last couple of weeks and it has been working great. 100W on all bands with even better TX two tone IMD than the K2. We will be posting a more detailed set of status reports here and on the web page in the near future. 73, Eric WA6HHQ +++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2002 17:52:05 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick Organization: Elecraft To: Elecraft Subject: [Elecraft] K2/100: Three ways to switch from QRO to QRP I wanted to do a brief summary following all of the questions regarding how the K2/100 can be switched between QRO and QRP modes. Since it was important to us that the K2/100 remain true to its QRP roots, we've made it very easy to drop into an efficient QRP mode. There are three ways to do this: 1. Turn the POWER knob to 10 watts or lower. The 100-w final is put into "thru" mode at this threshold (you'll hear the RF bypass relays click on the KPA100). In this "auto-QRP" mode you can set power from 0-10 watts in 0.5 watt steps. (Above 10 watts, you'll have 1-watt steps to slightly above 100 watts.) 2. In the menu, set PA to OFF. This puts the final into thru mode and restores the K2's normal 0-15 watt POWER control range (0.1 or 0.2 watt steps). 3. Turn off just the high-current power supply, leaving the K2's normal low-current supply connected. This again drops the rig into the 0-15 watt range. We included this dual-supply operating feature specifically to handle field and emergency power situations, which the K2/100 will be ideally suited for. The low-current supply could be a small 12V gel-cell or motorcycle battery connected to a solar panel, for example. This supply is completely diode isolated from the high-current supply, and it will switch in automatically if the power mains go down. (When you turn the high power supply off, you'll see a confirmation on the K2's LCD: "No PA PS". When you turn the supply back on, you'll see "PA PS On".) Perhaps the K2/100 is the world's first Uninterruptible Desktop Transceiver ;) In all cases, QRP or QRO, the total current drain of the K2/100 in receive mode remains well below that of other 100-watt-class transceivers. 73, Wayne N6KR ++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2002 07:06:40 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick Organization: Elecraft To: Charles Greene , Elecraft Subject: [Elecraft] Re: K2/100: Three ways to switch from QRO to QRP Charles Greene wrote: > When using the > QRO amp and mains but with an [external] gel cel connected to the QRP amp power > connector, will the gel cel be on a float charge? No, because the K2's DC power jack includes a reverse-polarity protection diode. So if you want to keep a battery connected to this jack, you'll need to arrange for external charging. I mentioned a solar panel, which is one way to float charge it. You could also float-charge it by connecting it to the QRO power supply and adjusting this supply's voltage accordingly. But probably the best alternative would be to build a true external charge controller for your battery type. Suitable circuits have been published in QST and elsewhere. > Will it be on float > charge when the K2 power switch is OFF but the ""QRO power supply is on > like the internal battery? Only if you have wired the QRO supply to the battery for float-charge purposes (see above). > When can I order one? Spring, 2002. Details later. 73, Wayne N6KR ++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2002 09:42:55 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: Steve Lawrence Cc: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2/100... Estimated Cost? Our current target is $349 for the K2/100 completion kit, which also includes full KIO2 functionality, external T/R keying line and an integrated internal speaker. This is subject to revision if we encounter any parts pricing issues (none so far). I'll post more info in our K2/100 update here and on the web later this week. 73, Eric WA6HHQ (Now in hyper K2/100 parts purchasing and cost negotiating mode... ====== Steve Lawrence wrote: > Is it too early to post a "budgetary" or "ballpark" figure for the cost of > the K2/100? > 73, Steve aa8af ++++++++++++++++++++ From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft Cc: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2/100... Estimated Cost? As we've noted for some time, there is no room inside for a separate KIO2 board when the 100W option is installed, so we included it on the 100W option PCB. We are pretty much including it without increasing the K2/100 option price. Of course your existing KIO2 is also useful if you reconfigure your K2 to 10W and need serial control. It also provides additional external signals for control of other devices like external ATU's and hopefully an 'AUX Box' band decoder. 73, Eric P.S. Please don't copy me when replying to the list as I get two copies of each message. (I'm already in email overload management ;^) +++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2002 14:30:55 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 with MP2 questions for Eric Hi Ned, 1, Yes, the K2/100 drives the MP2 without a tuner fine. I put the K2/100 into tune at about 3W and watch the internal SWR display as I manually tune the antenna up and down. (The K2/100 includes a built in SWR detector.) 2. I manually tune it with a switch as per above. No special K2 firmware yet to do this yet- but not a bad idea. 73, Eric Ned Asam wrote: > I noticed that you were using your K2/100 with the MP-2. I believe that is the model with the servo motor to adjust the loading coil. I have two questions. > > 1. Can the K2/100 drive the MP-2 without an antenna tuner. > > 2. How do you adjust MP-2 while driving and changing bands? By any chance does the K2/100 drive the MP-2 to minimum SWR? -- or is that too much to hope for? > Ned, KC2FLM +++++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2002 14:44:58 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K2/100 - external PA outside USA We plan to offer the KAT100 both in its own enclosure and as a board that will fit in the bottom of the EC2 so you can combine it with your other projects. It will communicate with the K2 via the KIO2 in the K2 (or via the built in KIO2 in the K2/100). The cable coming from the K2 will split 2 ways: One for the RS-232 and one for the external KAT100. That's the way we planned it from the beginning. 73, Eric Mario Lorenz wrote: > Hey Elecraft, I'd think a KAT2/100, which should fit into the bottom of the > EC2 +++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2002 15:05:50 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Re: KAT100 To clarify my previous posting: The KAT100 is a 100W ATU that operates identically to the KAT2 ATU with control from the K2/100's front panel buttons. 73, Eric =============== Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft wrote: > > We plan to offer the KAT100 both in its own enclosure and as a board that will > fit in the bottom of the EC2 so you can combine it with your other projects. It > will communicate with the K2 via the KIO2 in the K2 (or via the built in KIO2 in > the K2/100). +++++++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Wed, 06 Mar 2002 14:43:32 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] PA Power 20 A. 73, Eric ======== "Clark, John" wrote: > > How large of a power supply should I have for my K2 with the PA? > > 73 > N0URE > > John W. Clark ++++++++++++++++++++ Date: Fri, 08 Mar 2002 09:59:12 -0600 To: lenny wintfeld , elecraft at mailman.qth.net From: Tom Hammond =?iso-8859-1?Q?N=D8SS?= Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Question about current status of the KPA-100 Lenny: >Just curious about the current status of the KPA-100. > >Are alpha test units of the KPA-100 built and tested ? Yes! >Are any beta units in the field yet ? Not quite yet... hoping soon though. Tom Hammond N0SS +++++++++++++++++++ Date: Fri, 08 Mar 2002 09:46:05 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick Organization: Elecraft To: K7FD N7SG Cc: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Re: AMP: SO-239 or BNC? SO-239 (QRO standard). Wayne K7FD N7SG wrote: > > Maybe I missed this from an earlier post, but is the amp equipped with > SO-239 or BNC? +++++++++++++++++++ Date: Wed, 20 Mar 2002 13:26:03 -0800 From: Wayne Burdick Organization: Elecraft To: Elecraft Subject: [Elecraft] seeking high-power PA keying info We're doing a little survey on high-power external amp keying. The K2/100 provides a well-protected, high-voltage amp keying output, but we want to make sure that it will work with as many manufacturers' amps as possible. (There's still time for us to make minor changes to the KPA100 PC board if necessary.) Some of the manufacturers that we're taking into consideration include: Heath (SB200 and SB220) Kenwood (TL922) Ameritron Alpha If you have an external power amp (especially one of the above), and its schematic, please send me (directly) your input on the following questions: 1. What type of keying input does the amp have (logic, relay coil)? 2. What voltage is present at the keying input jack? Is it DC or AC? 3. How much current is required to activate the keying input? 4. Does the manufacturer recommend any specific keying circuit, T-R timing, bypassing, current limiting, etc.? Finally, I'd greatly appreciate receiving an e-mail (.pdf) or fax of any relevant portion of your amp's schematic, or a schematic showing any custom keying arrangement that you're presently using. My direct fax number is 650-591-1453. We'll include all relevant information in the manual. Thanks for your time, Wayne N6KR +++++++++++++++++++ Date: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 15:46:32 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: Samuel Ramac Cc: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-100 Status The K2/100 is on schedule and will be in Field Ttest this month. (The KPA-100 is just the option that contains the internal parts necessary to complete your K2 as a K2/100) Field Testers will be getting additional information by this weekend. We're scheduling all full production parts deliveries for a May release (by Dayton or earlier.) The major parts we're waiting for are the extruded heatsinks, which are due in here in the next 1-2 weeks. We're not taking orders yet, but we should begin taking advance orders later this month. We'll post here and on the web page when we are ready. I've been driving around mobile with my K2/100 for the past two months giving it a mobile stress test. Watch for me on the bands, especially 17M and 10M. 73, Eric WA6HHQ =================== Samuel Ramac wrote: > I'm just interested in the current status of the KPA-100. Is it on track > for May '02 release? Is it being field tested now? Thanks. ++++++++++++++++ Date: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 17:18:42 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: kc4kgu at ENTERZONE.NET Cc: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-100 Status It currently looks like $349, Barring any surprises in component costs. We'll post the final price when we begin taking orders 73, Eric kc4kgu at ENTERZONE.NET wrote: > > How much is it going to cost? > > 73 de John - KC4KGU > K2 #2490 ++++++++++++++++++ Date: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 18:29:12 -0800 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: Tom Cc: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA-100 Status 20A. 73, Eric ==== Tom wrote: > Speaking of Current...what sort of power supply am I looking at? Just want > to be ready when you start taking orders :) > > Thanks > Tom > WB2QDG ++++++++++++++++++ Date: Sun, 07 Apr 2002 20:21:05 -0500 To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net From: Tom Hammond =?iso-8859-1?Q?N=D8SS?= Subject: [Elecraft] K2/100 in the EC2 case Ken, et al: >Wayne Burdick wrote: > > And of course the APP connectors are what we're using with the K2/100. > >Then Ken McGuire wrote: > >Interesting... A lot of us have been waiting for a while for this (the >K2/100 convertion kit). Until it is in my hands, I almost can't belive in >its existance. > >I don't suppose you'll go on the record and say if the convertion kit >could be mounted in an EC2 with control cables to the K2, or if that idea >stayed on the drawing board because of FCC regs... Elecraft "intends" for the amp to be installed IN the K2, however, from what little I've seen of the pre-release docs, it appears that users will be able to install it remotely, 73, Tom Hammond N0SS +++++++++++++++++++ Date: Mon, 15 Apr 2002 12:27:52 -0700 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Opportunity for a few more K2/100 Field Testers Hi, We are beginning the Field Test of the K2/100 radio this week (K2 + KPA100 integration kit). Several of those who had previously asked to be Field Testers have had to drop out for personal reasons. As a result we have room add a couple more K2 owners as Field Testers in this group. Please email me at eric at elecraft.com with 'K2/100' included in the subject line if you are interested, if we missed you in our original FT notification or if you have any questions regarding the FT. (Please don't post FT questions to the Elecraft list.) We ask that you build your KPA-100 and test it as quickly as possible (hopefully in 7-10 days.) We must be in production with the K2/100 before Dayton (May 16th - our lives depend on it.. :^0, so time is of the essence. The KPA100 retail price will be $349 plus shipping. Field Testers will receive a discount. We will be adding the K2/100 items to the web order form later this month. We will notify everyone here and on our web site (and via direct email for those who have asked to be notified for the K2/100 previously) when we do this and are ready to take orders. Please don't call and try to place an order before then. (Lisa is buried in Field Tester order paperwork!) Here is some general information on the K2/100 and the Field Test: The "K2/100" refers to the completed K2/100 100 W radio. The "KPA100" part number refers to the The K2/100 integration kit which completes your K2 as a K2/100. (This parts kit is an internal integral part of the K2/100 as manufactured by Elecraft and will not work with other radios.) Customers who order a K2/100 will receive a base K2 with the KPA100 integration kit, along with any other options they have ordered. (KSB2, KAT2 etc.) The KPA100 internal parts kit includes the following K2/100 parts: - Built in RS232 computer control interface - SWR and power monitoring circuitry (accurate at high and low power) - Supervisory microcontroller with fault detection (high SWR, TEMP, Current etc.) - Diode switched high power T/R - Heatsink (replaces existing K2 top cover; no change in outside dimensions). - Internal speaker (mounted to the heatsink). Same as the current K2 speaker; no need to remove the speaker from your original K2 top cover. - and 100W internal components The purpose of this field test is to both verify the design and operation of the K2/100 and to make sure the assembly manual is accurate and as easy to use as possible. We have included a wide range of skill levels in the Field Test crew in order to get a good feel how builders of all levels will do with the kit. Here is our current schedule: We have had complete K2/100s in operation for several months. Eric has been running extensive tests both at home and mobile with his K2/100 with great reports. To date our main delay has been waiting for delivery of the production version extruded aluminum heat sinks. (We are using machined heatsinks in our prototypes.) These parts are now scheduled to arrive this week. We are kitting the KPA100s in advance waiting for their delivery. During this time we are also finalizing the KPA100 FT manual and the FT firmware. +++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 16 Apr 2002 16:35:04 -0500 To: cyr999 at extremezone.com, Elecraft Reflector From: Tom Hammond =?iso-8859-1?Q?N=D8SS?= Subject: Re: [Elecraft] ATU for the new amp? Tim: >Hi folks - I plan to have my new Elecraft 100w amp be a stand alone unit in a >separate K2 case. When elecraft 1st mentioned the amp, a companion heavy duty >ATU was also mentioned. Is there a schedule for the ATU? If not, could the >guts >of an LDG-11 fit inside the enclosure? Does anyone have suggestions for an >ATU >to combine with the amp? Thanks. According to Wayne, that's "VERY HIGH" in the priority chain... maybe even next. Tom N0SS +++++++++++++++++ Date: Tue, 16 Apr 2002 15:17:10 -0700 From: Eric Swartz WA6HHQ - Elecraft Organization: Elecraft To: Tom Hammond =?iso-8859-1?Q?N=D8SS?= Cc: Elecraft Reflector Subject: Re: [Elecraft] ATU for the new amp? For -sure- next :^) 73, Eric WA6HHQ ====== ++++++++++++++++ To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net From: lbailey at aep.com Date: Thu, 9 May 2002 16:56:48 -0500 Subject: [Elecraft] K2 w/PA100 Review on EHam.net Check out review by K1JD of K2 w/100 watt power amp. It's a very positive & informative review. http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/2357 73, Lynn, K5AVJ.....K2-#1411 +++++++++++++++ Date: Fri, 10 May 2002 00:29:41 +0200 From: "Rick Tavan" Organization: TIBCO Software Inc. To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Re: K2/100 Lives I believe there are about 50 field test units being built. Mine was one of two pre-FT editions, so N0SS and I had a week or two headstart on the rest of the FT group. You'll need to get Wayne or Eric to comment on the Dayton plans. The kinds of issues remaining seem to be firmware tweaks and documentation improvements. Personally, I'm jazzed by the amp so far. It works very well on both CW and SSB and contains numerous "Ah-hah! what a nifty idea!" design niceties as we have come to expect from Elecraft, especially in the area of integration between the QRP rig and the amp. /Rick KC2FLM Wrote: Message: 6 Date: Tue, 07 May 2002 18:15:41 -0400 From: Ned Asam To: Elecraft Subject: [Elecraft] K2/100 Lives This is good news!! Many of us have been waiting 2 years to "complete" our k2s! How many pre-production units are in the field? Are we still on track for a release in the Dayton time frame? 73, Ned KC2FLM K2 SN 467 +++++++++++++++++++