ELECRAFT K3 HIGH-PERFORMANCE 160 – 6 METER TRANSCEIVER OWNER’S MANUAL Revision D10, August 24, 2011 Copyright © 2011, Elecraft, Inc.
Contents A Note to K3 Owners ..................................... 3 Key to Symbols and Text Styles ..................... 3 Quick-Start Guide........................................... 4 Introduction.................................................... 7 Buffered I.F. Output............................................ 39 Using Transverters .............................................. 39 Scanning .............................................................. 40 Main and Sub Receiver Antenna Routing.....
A Note to K3 Owners On behalf of our entire design team, we’d like to thank you for choosing the Elecraft K3 transceiver. The K3—like its predecessor, the K2—reflects our desire to go beyond what other high-performance transceivers have offered. It isn’t just a home-station rig; at about 8 to 9 pounds, it can accompany you wherever you go, whether it’s out to your back porch or halfway around the world. And it’s the only rig in its class that you can build yourself.
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 need 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 {38}. You can power an accessory device from the switched DC output jack {39} (0.5 A max). Connect an antenna to ANT1 {29}. With an ATU (pg. 22), you can also use ANT2 {28}. AUX RF {27} is for the sub receiver; see pg. 17. ANT3 {30} is used with the internal 2-m module (K144XV).
VFOs and RIT/XIT • • • • • {21} selects 10 or 50 Hz VFO/RIT tuning. See VFO menu entries, pg. 53. {21} selects 1-Hz steps. C O A R S E selects large steps (MAIN menu, VFO CRS). Tap F R E Q E N T {21} to enter frequency in MHz using numeric keypad & decimal point. Tap return ( ) to complete the entry, or tap F R E Q E N T again to cancel. (Pg. 15.) Hold S C A N to start/stop scanning. S C A N must be preceded by a memory recall (pg. 40).
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). The Front Panel (pg. 11) and Rear Panel (pg. 17) sections are for general reference. Basic Operation (pg. 21) and Advanced Operation (pg. 33) fill in the details. • • • • Anytime you add new filters or options, refer to Configuration (pg. 46).
Specifications Some specifications apply only if the corresponding option modules are installed (see Options, pg. 45). GENERAL Frequency Range Main and Sub Receivers, 490 kHz - 30 MHz and 44-54 MHz. Transmitter: Amateur bands between 1.8 and 54 MHz (varies by country). 144-148 MHz with K144XV option. MARS coverage on request (excluding transmit from 7.550-8.999 MHz at 13 W and higher, and 7.650-8.999 MHz at 12 W or lower).
RECEIVER (Main and Sub)* Sensitivity (MDS) -136 to -138 dBm (typ.), preamp on, 500 Hz bandwidth. 6 m MDS with PR6 option: -143 to -144 dBm (typ.). Reduced sensitivity near 8.2 MHz (first I.F.) and from 4449.5 MHz. Sensitivity decreases gradually below 1.8 MHz due to intentional highpass response at the T-R switch. (Use RX ANT input or sub receiver’s AUX input to avoid the high-pass filter loss.) Note: KBPF3 option required for full general coverage (including 0.49 to 1.7 MHz).
Customer Service and Support Technical Assistance You can send e-mail to k3support@elecraft.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. Telephone assistance is available from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Pacific time (weekdays only) at 831-763-4211.
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, ATU and transmit controls, display modes, and menus. Keypad (pg.
Display (LCD) Multi-character displays: The 7-segment display (upper) shows the VFO A frequency. The 13segment display (lower) shows VFO B or text. VFO Icons: The TX icon indicates which VFO is selected for transmit. In TX TEST mode, or when TX is inhibited externally, TX flashes (see T E S T ). Shows that VFO A or B is locked (see L O C K ). Bar graph, receive mode: The bar graph normally acts as an S-meter. If C W T is turned on, the right half of the S-meter becomes a tuning aid (pg. 34).
LEDs Primary Controls TX [Red] Turns on in transmit mode. B A N D Tap left/right end to move among ham bands. CONFIG:BND MAP disables bands. For “quick” band switching, see CONFIG:MEM 0-9. V O X Selects voice-operated or CW keyingoperated transmit (VO X icon on), or PTT (VO X icon off). Also see D E L A Y (pg. 30) and CW VOX auto-off control (CONFIG:CW WGHT). ∆ 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 RF / S Q L — SUB RF gain (and/or squelch) controls for main and sub receiver. MIC CMP Two menu entries are provided to control squelch directly: CONFIG:SQ MAIN, and SQ SUB.
Direct Frequency Entry Receiver Control & Misc. (Lower Rows) To jump to any frequency within the tuning range of the K3, tap F R E Q E N 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 E N 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/main receiver.
Memory Controls Digital Voice/Audio Recorder (KDVR3) Frequency Memories The DVR can continuously record receive audio (up to 90 seconds). To start/stop audio record, hold A F R E C . To start/stop playback, hold A F P L A Y . The icon flashes during DVR use. The K3 has 100 general-purpose memories (00-99), plus per-band memories (M1-M4 on each band). Each memory holds VFO A and B frequencies, modes, filter presets, antenna selection, and other settings.
Rear Panel Connector Groups The appearance of your rear panel may vary depending upon the options installed. KIO3 (pg. 18): The 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. 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 video connector. The K3 does not provide a video output. RS232 The RS232 port can operate at up to 38,400 baud. A straight-through cable is required. If you’re using an Elecraft P3 Panadapter, the computer is connected to the P3, and the P3 is connected to the K3.
Band Outputs (BAND0-BAND3) BAND0-3 provide band selection signals. Their behavior is controlled by the CONFIG:KIO3 menu entry (see below). Band data is based on VFO A. With CONFIG:KIO3 set to H F- TR N , the BAND0-3 outputs follow the N O R table when HF6 m bands are selected, and the TR N table when a transverter band is selected. Earlier K3s may require external pullup resistors to 5 V on these lines, typically 2.2-10K. Transverter Control In tables below, 0 = 0 VDC, and 1 = 5 VDC.
SPKRS LINE IN STEREO or MONO; 4 to 8 Ω MONO, transformer-isolated; 600 Ω (nominal) 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 input should be connected to your computer’s soundcard output. The M I C gain control sets the line input level when the MAIN:MIC SEL menu entry is set to LIN E IN .
Basic Operation MAIN Menu • Tap M E N U to access the main menu. (Tapping M E N U again exits the menu.) • Use VFO B to scroll through the menu entries, referring to the list on pg. 52 for details. Once you’re familiar with the K3, please go on to Advanced Operating Features (pg. 33). • Change the value (or parameter) of any menu entry using VFO A. Using Tap/Hold Switches CONFIG Menu Most K3 switches have two functions.
Band and Mode Selection Using the VFOs Tap either end of B A N D to select the desired ham band (160 through 6 meters). You can use direct frequency entry (pg. 15), or recall a frequency memory (pg. 16). Individual bands can be mapped out if not needed (see CONFIG:BND MAP). 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). Tap R A T E to select 10 / 50 Hz per step.
Receiver Setup Filter Passband Controls This section explains how to 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. The filter graphic shows the width and location of the passband, as illustrated below.
Filter Presets (I/II) Custom Settings (NORM1 and NORM2) Each operating mode provides two ‘floating’ filter presets, 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-mode ‘normal’ settings are also available as explained 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 O R M function.
Reducing Interference and Noise The DSP noise blanker is in the 2nd I.F., where it can’t be activated by signals outside the crystal filter passband. It can be used with high-duty-cycle and complex-waveform noise generated by computers, switching power supplies, light dimmers, etc. The I.F. noise blanker 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.
Transmitter Setup VOX, PTT, and QSK Transmit Crystal Filter Considerations 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. For each operating mode, you must specify which I.F. crystal filter to use for transmit using the CONFIG:FLTX menu entry. See pg. 47 for recommended per-mode transmit filter bandwidths.
External ALC Per-Band Power Control External ALC should only be used to protect your amplifier during operation into a failed load, or during a prolonged overdrive condition. ALC should not be used as a way to clip or compress fast voice peaks, or as a primary means of amplifier or K3 power output control. If the CONFIG:PWR SET menu parameter is set to N O R , power output on all HF bands follows the present setting of P W R . (6 m and transverter bands are always independent of HF.
Voice Modes (SSB, AM, FM) Mic Gain and Compression Settings Mode Selection See pg. 75 for a general discussion about voicemode ALC. To set up mic gain and compression: Tap either end of M O D E to select LSB /U SB , A M , or FM mode. Holding the left end of this control, A L T , selects an alternate mode. LSB and U SB are alternates of each other. The alternate for A M is A M- S (synchronous AM, pg. 29). In FM mode, A L T enables a repeater offset (pg. 29).
Voice Mode VOX Setup Transmit Noise Gate VOX selects push-to-talk (PTT) or voice-operated (VOX) transmit (VO X icon on). VOX hold time is set with D E L A Y (pg 14). The noise gate function mutes mic audio below a selected threshold; this may be useful in noisy environments. See CONFIG:TX GATE for details. MAIN:VOX GN (VOX gain) should be set to trigger at normal speech level, but not in response to incidental noise. Start with low settings (5-10).
CW Mode SPOT and Auto-Spot CW Normal and Reverse 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 DATA signals. See Tuning Aids: CWT and SPOT (pg. 34). Select CW mode by tapping either end of M O D E . Hold A L T to alternate between CW normal (lower sideband RX) and reverse (upper sideband RX). CW Text Decode/Display If you S P O T (or auto-spot) a CW signal (pg.
Data Modes The following data modes are available: You don’t need a computer to get started with data modes on the K3: it can receive 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).
RTTY Dual-Tone Filter (DTF) AMTOR / PacTOR Hold D U A L P B to turn on the RTTY dual-tone filter (DTF). 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). AMTOR, PacTOR 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, you can use the K3’s internal keyer to transmit PSK31 and RTTY signals (pg. 34). To set up text decode for DATA modes: When text decode is enabled, rotating the RIT/XIT offset control doesn’t display the offset. • Set M O D E to DATA. Then hold D A T A M D and select either A FS K A , FSK D , or PSK D mode using VFO B.
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 decode (pg. 33), and send CW using the internal keyer. Tapping C W T turns the upper half of the S-meter into a CW/DATA tuning aid. If no bar appears in the tuning area, the threshold may be set too high; hold T E X T D E C and select a lower TH R 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, you can take advantage of the K3’s DSP audio effects. These create an illusion of greater acoustic space. For many operators, AFX provides a less-fatiguing receiver sound. The K3 provides 8 bands of receive audio equalization via the MAIN:RX EQ menu entry. RX EQ can compensate for the physical acoustics of your station (room, headphones, speakers, etc.
SPLIT and Cross-Mode Operation General-Coverage Receive Normally, VFO A is used for both receive and transmit. When S P L I T mode is selected, VFO B becomes the transmit VFO. In this case the SPL T 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 The sub receiver’s band cannot be set independently unless CONFIG:VFO IND is set to YES . If it’s set to N O , you’ll see =MA IN when you tap B A N D during B SE T , and the sub receiver band will always be set the same as main. The KRX3 option adds an independent, highperformance sub receiver to the K3. It allows you to monitor a second frequency, using different bandwidths or modes. Diversity receive is possible if the main and sub receivers use different antennas.
Diversity Receive Sub Receiver Crystal Filter Considerations Diversity receive can greatly improve signal copy during fading (QSB). True diversity requires a pair of identical receivers running from a common frequency reference and using two different antennas. The K3 is one of very few transceivers that offer this capability. Most offer only a lowperformance sub receiver, or “dual watch” (splitI.F.) circuitry, which doesn’t provide for separate main/sub antennas.
Receive Antenna In/Out Using Transverters The RX ANT IN/OUT jacks, supplied with the KXV3 option, have various uses: Nine user-definable bands are provided for use with transverters. These can be used with the Elecraft K144XV internal 2-m module, Elecraft XV-Series, or other transverters. See pg. 18 for connections. • • • • Low-noise receiving 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. 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. (6meter scanning range is limited to 50-54 MHz by default; contact Elecraft for details.) Scanning or manually tuning VFO A 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 K1 Sub RX SA4 * Figure 2. Main/Sub Receiver Routing with KXV3 Installed K3 with KAT3 ATU The KAT3 internal ATU, 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 share the main receiver’s RF source, or use its AUX RF input. The latter can be either the non-transmit KAT3 antenna or the AUX RF BNC connector, as described earlier. In either case, the sub receiver’s antenna must be isolated from the transmitting antenna. RX Ant. SA3 * Ant 1 * Includes C.O.R.
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 ON. To turn it OFF, the controller must send the K3 a “PS0;” remote-control command via the RS232 interface, wait at least 100 ms, then deactivate the POWER ON signal. This sequence ensures that nonvolatile memory is updated correctly before shut-down.
Options and Accessories Firmware Upgrades KPA500: 500 Watt+ high-performance 160-6 m amplifier with built-in low-noise power supply and automatic drive-level control (CONFIG:PWR SET). Same size and styling as the K3. 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 .0 0 , corresponds to the nominal filter center frequency of 8215.0 kHz. Most 5pole filters will have an offset, e.g. “-0.91”. (This 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 review the other menu entries as well, starting on pg. 52. • Select CW mode by tapping M O D E . • Use VFO B to find the FLTX CW menu entry. • 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 The VFO A knob’s spin rate can be adjusted by moving the knob in or out slightly. The rubber finger grip on the VFO A knob covers the knob’s set screw, so it must be removed first. Use the supplied 5/64" (2 mm) Allen wrench to loosen the VFO B knob’s set screw. 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 All calibration procedures are firmwarebased. Please do not adjust any of the trimmer capacitors or potentiometers inside the K3. 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. Most calibration procedures use Tech-Mode menu entries. To enable these, set CONFIG:TECH MD to O N . Set TECH MD to O FF afterward. 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 T U N E power output indication should be about 50 watts. (Use the K3 Utility method if a PC is available.) • Locate the CONFIG:REF CAL menu entry. • Connect a frequency counter with +/-1 Hz or better accuracy to J1 on the reference oscillator module. Measure the exact frequency in Hz.
• Set transmit power to 0.0 W using • The S-meter has both relative and absolute modes. Refer to the CONFIG:SMTR MD menu entry description if you wish to switch from relative to absolute. (Relative mode is easier to calibrate and is the factory default.) • Turn the attenuator off (A T T ). • If you have CONFIG:SMTR MD set to N O R , turn the preamp on ( P R E ). If SMTR MD is set to A B S , turn the preamp off. • Tap A G C to select slow AGC (A G C - S ).
Menu Functions There are two groups of menu functions: MAIN and CONFIG. Tap M E N U to access the MAIN menu; hold C O N F I G to access the CONFIG menu. You can also hold C O N F I G to switch from one menu to the other. Menu entries that you’d like quick access to can be assigned to programmable function switches (pg. 21). Tapping D I S P while viewing the menu shows usage information 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 . They are normally left at their defaults. Entries further described as “Advanced” or “Troubleshooting” should 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.
AGC DCY NOR AGC HLD 0.00 AGC PLS [T] AGC SLP [T] NOR 12 AGC THR [T] AGC-F [T] AGC-S [T] AUTOINF [T] 5 120 20 NOR BAT MIN 11.0 BND MAP {band} In CW IAMB A CW PADL CW QRQ TIP=DOT OFF AGC decay characteristic; applies to both fast and slow AGC. N O R selects traditional linear decay. The SO F T setting can reduce IMD caused by traditional AGC, and is especially useful in “pileup” conditions, in some cases making it unnecessary to turn AGC off.
CW WGHT 1.15 Adjusts element/space timing ratio (weight) for the internal keyer. Additional functions of this menu entry, via numeric keypad (Advanced): Tap 1 to select SSB - C W (default) or SSB +C W (allows CW in SSB modes). Tap 2 to select @ = STO P (‘@’ character terminates KY-packet transmission; default) or @ = ‘A C ’ (‘@’ in a KY packet is sent as .--.-. [@] in CW mode). Tap 3 to select O LD or N EW Q SK (default). N EW reduces AF keying artifacts.
FLx FRQ 0 dB (FL1) Crystal filter FLx center freq as offset from nominal (8215.0 kHz). Use the offset value specified on the crystal filter’s label or PC board, if any. For example, if an Elecraft 5-pole, 200-Hz filter were labeled “-0.91”, adjust VFO A for – 0 . 9 1 . Crystal filter FLx loss compensation in dB. 0 dB recommended for wide filters; 2 dB for 400 or 500 Hz filters, and 4 d B for 200 or 250 Hz filters. ON (FL1), per-mode Used to specify which filters are available during receive.
KRC2 -- KRX3 Not Inst KXV3 Not Inst LCD TST LIN OUT OFF NOR 010 Controls the KRC2 band decoder’s accessory output settings. Shows A C C O FF or A C C 1 - 3 if a KRC2 is detected; - - if not. To ensure compatibility with both old and new KRC2 firmware, two different 6 meter band decodes are provided. Tap 1 to select B A N D 6 =B 6 (addr=10) or B A N D 6 =B 1 0 (addr=9). Refer to the KRC2 manual for further details.
MIC BTN L-MIX-R OFF A B NB SAVE NO PA TEMP N/A PB CTRL Shift=.05 PTT-KEY OFF-OFF PTT RLS 20 PWR SET NOR REF CAL [T] 49380000 Hz Set to O N if your mic has UP/DOWN buttons compatible with the K3’s frontpanel mic jack. Not applicable to the Elecraft MH2 or MD2 microphones. Tapping UP/DOWN once moves the VFO up/down one step (based on current tuning rate); holding UP/DOWN moves up/down continuously. If frequency moves up/down continuously, your mic is not compatible; set MIC BTN O FF .
RFI DET NOR RIT CLR UNDO OFF 4800 b RS232 SER NUM SIG RMV [T] N/A NOR N O R enables detection of high RFI at the K3’s antenna in receive mode (see H I R FI warning, Troubleshooting). Set to O FF to disable the warning. When this parameter is set to “UNDO ON”, tapping RIT/XIT C L R will alternate between 0 .0 0 and the present RIT/XIT offset, if any. RS232 communications rate in bits per second (bps).
SPKR+PH NO YES = Speaker is ON, even when headphones are plugged into PHONES jack. See detailed discussion on pg. 20. SQ MAIN 0 SQ SUB 0 SUB AF NOR SW TEST [T] OFF SW TONE OFF This menu entry normally sets the main receiver squelch value (0 -2 9 ). If VFO A is rotated fully clockwise, the parameter changes to =SU B PO T . Squelch for both main and sub receivers will then be controlled by the SUB RF/SQL knob, and both main and sub RF gain will be controlled by the MAIN RF/SQL knob.
TUN PWR TX ALC [T] NOR ON TX DLY NOR 008 TX DVR NOR TX ESSB OFF 3.0 TX GATE OFF 0 TX INH [T] OFF TX MON NOR If set to N O R , T U N E power level follows the POWER knob. Otherwise, establishes a fixed power level for T U N E , overriding the present POWER knob setting. Note1: TUN PWR does not pertain to A T U T U N E , which always uses 5 or 10 W and is internally controlled. It also does not apply to transverter bands using the low-power KXV3 output (XVTR OUT).
TXGN{pwr} [T] 00 (Troubleshooting.) Shows transmit gain constant for the present band and power mode, where {pwr} = LP (0-12W), H P (13-120W), or MW (0.1-1.5 mW). The gain constant is updated whenever the T U N E function is activated on a given band at one of three specific power levels: 5.0 W, 50 W, and 1.00 milliwatt. See transmit gain calibration procedure, pg. 49. On 80 m with high power (> 13 W) selected, you should see PR 8 0 as part of the TXGN parameter display.
XVn RF 144 XVn IF 28 XVn PWR L .01 XVn OFS 0.00 Lower edge for transverter band n (1 -9 ); 0 -2 4 9 9 9 MHz. (Tap 1 – 9 to select applicable transverter band.) Normally, 1 4 4 would be used for the K144XV internal 2-m module. But if the K144XV is being used as an IF for a higher-band transverter, you can set it to the lower edge of the higher band. Specify K3 band to use as the I.F. for transverter band n (1 -9 ) . (Tap 1 – 9 to select the transverter band.) I.F.
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. Subsequent sections cover Parameter Initialization (pg. 66) and Module Troubleshooting (pg. 67). If the problem persists, please contact Elecraft support (see pg. 10) or post a question on our email reflector. General • ER R (error) message appears on the LCD (ER R PL1 , etc.): Refer to Module Troubleshooting (pg. 67).
impedance. Allow heat sink to cool. Reduce power if necessary. Make sure the CONFIG:PA TEMP menu entry is calibrated (allow heat sink to cool to room temperature, then compare menu reading to actual). • A LC O FF is displayed on VFO A during transmit: Set CONFIG:TX ALC to O N . ALC should only be • Can’t transmit in CW mode: (1) Make sure the key or keyer paddle is plugged into the correct jack. (2) You must have VOX selected (VO X icon on) in order to use hit-the-key CW.
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 information provided here, you’ll be troubleshooting to the module level, not to the component level. In many cases, problems can be resolved by changing a menu setting, loading new firmware (pg. 45) or initializing parameters to factory defaults (see below). A full set of schematics can be found on our web site. Due to the use of fine-pitch ICs in the K3, most signal tracing must be done very carefully using fine-tip probes.
Error Message List * = See module de-installation instructions on previous page. Error Msg ERR 12V Problem The circuit breaker on the KPA3 module may be open. PA drops into bypass mode, fans switch to level 2, and PA temp display mode is not available.
ERR EE2 External EEPROM read/write test failed ERR FP3 ERR FW2 Missing display text in flash memory General firmware problem ERR IF1 RF board IF GROUP not responding (A6810 or KNB3-U2) ERR IF2 Sub RX IF GROUP not responding (A6810 or KNB3-U2) ERR IO1 MISO line stuck low (asserted) ERR IO3 KIO3 not responding ERR KEY ERR PTT Attempt to key the transmitter or activate PTT during power-on ERR LPF No response from LPF shift registers ERR PA1 KPAIO3 module not responding 69 EEPROM may be defec
ERR PL1/2 VPLL out of range on band change (to view actual PLL voltage, set CONFIG: TECH MD to O N , then tap D I S P and use VFO B to locate the PLL 1 and PLL 2 voltage displays). ERR SY1/2 ERR SY3/4 ERR SY5/6 General problem with PLL, VCO, or other circuitry on a synthesizer module. ERR VCO ERR VC4 VCO calibration errors. VFO A will show error data, e.g. E 0 0 0 3 9 ; report this value to Elecraft customer support.
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. Only basic modules are covered here; for option module circuit details, refer to the individual instruction manuals (KPA3, KBPF3, KXV3, KRX3, PR6). RF BOARD The RF PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is the heart of the K3 transceiver, both physically and electrically.
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 rejection. The I.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. This keeps the K3’s HF spur complement extremely low, despite the use of a down-conversion system architecture. KAT3 (ATU) and KANT3 The basic K3/10 includes a KANT3 antenna input module. If you’ve ordered a KAT3 antenna tuner, the 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. 73). 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.
KSYN3 (Synthesizer) Low phase noise is key to both receiver and transmitter performance. In the K3’s synthesizer module (KSYN3), we start with a clean, wide-range voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO). The VCO frequency is placed near the desired band of operation using 128 carefully-selected L-C combinations, which keep the ratio of fixed capacitance to tunable capacitance (varactor diodes) as high as possible.
K3 Block Diagram 76
Appendix A: Crystal Filter Installation Damage to your K3 due to electrostatic discharge (ESD) can occur if you don’t take proper precautions. Such damage is not covered by the Elecraft warranty, and could result in costly repairs. We recommend that you use an anti-static mat and wear a conductive wrist strap with a series 1-megohm resistor. An alternative is to touch an unpainted, grounded metal surface frequently while you are working.
Locate the crystal filters you presently have installed in slots FL1 - FL5 on the RF board (or sub receiver). There 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. B A N D W ID TH can be obtained from the model number of each filter. 5-pole filters have a FR E Q O FFS ET marked on the side of one of the crystals, e.g. “-0.85”. The offset for all 8-pole filters is 0.00.
Turn 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). Turn the K3 (or sub receiver module) upside down again.
Index 12 VDC IN, 17 12 VDC OUT, 17 1-Hz Tuning, 22 Accessory 12 VDC Output, 17 Accessory I/O (ACC), 18 AF Balance Control, 37, 60 AF Gain Range, 53 AF Limiter, 53 AFSK A Mode, 31 AFV (Audio Voltmeter), 36, 53 AFX (Audio Effects), 35 AGC, 15, 54 Alarm Function, 6, 36 ALC, 26, 27, 28, 61, 75 ALC OFF Warning, 65 ALC, External, 18, 27, 55, 65 ALT Switch (Alternate Modes), 22, 30 Alternate Displays, 36 AM Mode, 28, 29, 78 Amplifier Keying Delay, 61 Amplifier Module, 10 W, 71 Amplifier Module, 100 W, 47, 56 ANT3,
FM, 56 FM Deviation, 56 FM Mode, 13, 28, 29 FP ACC, 13 Frequency Entry, Direct, 15 Frequency Memories, 16 Frequency Range, 8, 40 Friction Adjustment, VFO Knob, 48 Front Panel, 11 Front Panel Accessory Connector, 13 FSK, 31, 32 FSK D Mode, 31 FSK IN, 18, 31, 32 Full Break-In (QSK), 13, 30 Ground Terminal, 17 Headphones, 13, 20, 57, 60 HI CUR Warning, 64, 65 HI RFI Warning, 65 HI SIG Warning, 65 HI SWR Warning, 64 HI TEMP Warning, 64 HICUT (High Cut), 5, 23, 32 I/II, 12, 14, 23, 24 Iambic Keying, 54 IF OUT, 3
Repeater Offset, 29, 52 RF Board, 71 RF GAIN, 51 RFI Detection, 59 RIT, 6, 11, 14, 16, 22, 62 RIT/XIT Offset, 7, 14, 16, 21, 22, 33, 36, 62 Roofing Filter, 7, 23, 74 RS232, 18, 31, 44, 54, 58, 59, 64, 73 RTC, 47 RTTY, 31, 32 RTTY Letters Shift, 60 RX ANT IN/OUT, 39 RX EQ, 35, 52, 65 Scanning, 6, 14, 40 Semi-Break-In, 5, 14, 26 Serial I/O, 18 Serial Number, 59 SHIFT, 12, 14, 23 Sidetone, 30 S-Meter, 12, 51, 59 Speaker, 35, 37, 59, 60 Specifications, 8 Speech Compression, 14, 26, 28 SPKRS=1 Warning, 65 SPLIT
