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The Elecraft K3, a popular HF transceiver, is often benchmarked against new market entrants. This article critically compares the Kenwood TS-590S to the K3, focusing on key technical specifications and operational aspects relevant to serious amateur radio operators. The author proposes three distinct evaluation methods: a circuit diagram comparison, an independent review analysis (referencing Peter Hart, G3SJX, in RadCom), and a real-world "ear test" by experienced contest operators on 40 and 80 meters. The analysis delves into specific receiver components, including the first mixer design, RF and IF amplifier performance, and the presence of an image noise filter. It highlights the K3's switched mixer and the potential for the TS-590S to utilize similar or improved designs, such as a classic filter with enhanced selectivity. The article also scrutinizes the second mixer stage, noting the K3's SA612 chip and its associated IP3 limitations, suggesting Kenwood might achieve benefits with a different mixer architecture. Further points of comparison include DSP capabilities, where the K3's high-performing DSP with KK7P's involvement is noted against the TS-590S's potential reliance on newer IC technology but possibly less refined software. The discussion extends to DDS and PLL implementations for phase noise and spurious emissions, and the utility of a second receiver for DX chasing and contesting, acknowledging its importance for some operators while being less critical for others. The article concludes by emphasizing personal preference in equipment selection.

N4PY Software is your source for high quality, effective rig control software for your transceiver. N4PY offers rig control software for a wide variety of receivers from the Elecraft K3 to the Ten Tec RX 320 receiver and it is major equipment integrator supporting panadapters, winkeyer, Tmate2 or FlexControl

QST Magazine Product Reviews - Key Measurements Summary - HF-Transceivers or Receivers. Compares Yaesu FTDX5000, Elecraft K3, Flex 5000 and Kenwood TS-590S

The Elecraft K2 transceiver requires specific modifications for optimal soundcard digital mode operation, particularly for PSK31. The original article, circa 2001, details initial challenges with manual PTT and speech compression settings. A key modification involves adding headphone audio and a compression disable signal to the K2's microphone jack, utilizing pins 4 and 5. The **COMP0** signal, active low, is shorted to ground via a non-inverting open collector switch circuit, comprising two resistors and two transistors, mounted on the SSB board near U3. This circuit provides effective control of an analog signal line with good noise immunity. The switchbox itself repurposes a computer COM port switch, using only two of its original connectors and four of the nine poles. It integrates a microphone preamplifier, a PTT circuit built with 'flying leads' construction, and RCA jacks for soundcard connections. A trimpot adjusts the audio drive to the K2. The central DB9 connector links to the K2's mic connector via a shielded RS232 serial cable, ensuring proper grounding and signal routing. An external footswitch PTT jack is also included. Further enhancements include a **noise-canceling microphone** preamp based on a QST December 2000 article, adapted for Heil mic elements. This preamp, built with pseudo-Manhattan style construction, provides a gain of approximately 2 by changing emitter resistors (R9 and R16) from 680 ohms to 330 ohms. A 10-ohm series resistor and 47 µF capacitor on the +5V supply mitigate noise spikes.

The Receiver Test Data resource is a detailed review database focusing on the performance metrics of various radio receivers. The methodology involves rigorous lab measurements, often adhering to standards such as the ARRL RMDR (Reciprocal Mixing Dynamic Range) and BDR (Blocking Dynamic Range). Specific test equipment and protocols are utilized to assess parameters like noise floor (dBm), AGC threshold (uV), and LO noise (dBc/Hz). For example, the _Icom IC-7300_ is evaluated with a noise floor of **-133 dBm** and an LO noise of **-141 dBc/Hz**, providing insights into its performance under different operational conditions. The resource includes a wide range of models, from the _Elecraft K3S_ to the _Yaesu FTdx-101D_, each tested for dynamic range, sensitivity, and selectivity. The data is sorted by key metrics such as third-order dynamic range and phase noise limitations, with RMDR values calculated by subtracting 27 dB from LO noise figures. This structured approach allows users to compare different receivers' capabilities, focusing on technical specifications and performance outcomes in various scenarios. DXZone Focus: Review Database | Lab Measurements | -133 dBm | ARRL RMDR

Win4K3Suite is an integrated control program for the entire Elecraft K-Line. It supports the K3, the KPA500, the KAT500 and the P3 Panadapter. Has a remote server mode as well, that supports P3 streaming video.

Kenwood TS-590S QST review comments and table comparison vs Elecraft K3

Long review of the Elecraft K3 , 18 months on.

Elecraft K3 vs. ICOM IC-781 vs. Kenwood TS-850: comparative Measurements and Experience

Jose B Rivera, N2LRB, shares his initial experiences with the Icom IC-7300, recounting a shift from skepticism to appreciation for the transceiver. He details how the radio's impressive Sherwood Engineering test results, ranking it #12, significantly influenced his decision, especially considering its competitive price point against higher-end options like the Elecraft K3s. The review highlights the IC-7300's strong receive capabilities, a key factor in N2LRB's purchasing decision, and notes the advantages of its SDR architecture for future updates. He describes the straightforward setup process, from unboxing and connecting PowerPole connectors to making a first contact with N0HQ, a special event station. N2LRB expresses satisfaction with the radio's clear audio and ease of tuning, even if the pan-adapter's utility for his operating style remains to be fully explored. He concludes that the IC-7300 offers exceptional value, providing SDR features and receive performance comparable to more expensive rigs at half the cost.

KTune is a small utility that allows you to use a Griffin Powermate USB knob to tune your Elecraft K3 radio.

W1WD review and reception performance test of the Elecraft K3 transceiver.

KComm, a logging and communication program, was specifically engineered for Elecraft K2, K3, and KX3 transceivers, leveraging the Lazarus cross-platform development tool. It operates natively on Windows XP and can be compiled for Linux, with potential for macOS, prioritizing low resource usage for casual DXers and contest participants. The software integrates with external applications like Fldigi for diverse digital modes and CW Skimmer for advanced Morse decoding, enhancing its functionality beyond basic logging. The design philosophy of KComm emphasizes utilizing the physical radio controls for operational adjustments, rather than replacing the transceiver's front panel. It facilitates keyboard CW operation via the Elecraft serial protocol and capitalizes on the K3 and KX3's built-in decoders for RTTY and PSK31. Additionally, KComm supports PSK31, PSK63, and PSK125 through the AE4JY PSK Core DLL on Windows and integrates with PSKReporter.info for spotting. While not a dedicated contest logging or award tracking program, KComm supports ADIF and Cabrillo export for casual use, allowing logs to be imported into other software. The author, G4ILO, ceased all software development, providing KComm "as is" without further support or updates; however, the source code is available under the GNU GPL for community continuation.

KE7X Elecraft K3 operating manual

Elecraft K3 pictures, inside pictures, assembly and case.

This article will explain a few of the ways author use an external SDR and Linrad to enhance his K3 experience. Linrad is one of many available SDR receiver programs. The same could be done with any radio that lets you access its IF frequency output. Article from NCJ Nov Dec 2019

Amateur radio, Technology, Towers, Land, Wilderness, real estate, Visalia DX Convention Report #1 Flexradio Antennas Dxpedition, Elecraft introduces K3, here are pictures of the radio from the outside and inside from the Visalia DX Convention

eHam Reviews for Elecraft K3

You do not need an expensive or complicated interface to get started using psk31 and other data modes with an elecraft k2 transceiver.

A 144 MHz transverter made by ur3lmz and connected to and Elecraft KX2 transceiver

Palau T8GM (OC009) September 6-7 and 15-19 This is solo DXpedition and CW only. Station will be Elecraft K3 and ECO R7+ vertical for 40-10 meters.

Yap V6G (OC012) September 8-15 - This is solo DXpedition and CW only. Elecraft K3 and vertical ant. By PG5M

Replacing fan to the Elecraft K3 and solving temperature issues after replacement, by changing fans with other compatible ones.

A small application for controlling the Elecraft K3

This thoughtful review details ajourney from the stock Elecraft KXPD2 paddle to an innovative pressure-sensor alternative. The author candidly describes issues with their original paddle—intermittent operation and loosening screws—before discovering VK3IL's pressure-sensitive design through QST magazine. The construction process, using a PCB and components generously shared by the designer, proved straightforward despite challenging SMD soldering. What stands out is the clever DIY housing solution: a "sandwich" of closed-cell foam encased in heat-shrink tubing that fits comfortably in hand. The ergonomic design allows effective single-handed operation for portable SOTA activations. The successful implementation has rendered the original paddle obsolete, leaving only the task of covering the radio's paddle port.

Integrating a Genovation keypad with the Elecraft K3 is for anyone looking to enhance their radio setup. Author shares his journey from initial confusion to successful implementation, detailing key insights, particularly about the importance of device identification. The update from Genovation simplifies the process significantly, allowing users to select USB mode without firmware changes. With practical tips and a clear template for programming, this resource is invaluable for both new and seasoned users aiming to optimize their K3 experience.

The article details the repair of an Elecraft K3 transceiver experiencing an "ERR 12V" issue, causing reduced output power. The problem, common in these units, stems from inadequate pin strips carrying high DC current to the PA unit, leading to overheating and poor conduction. The author identified the faulty connectors and implemented a bypass using existing PCB pads, effectively rerouting the power and resolving the error. This straightforward fix highlights the importance of robust electrical connections in high-current applications, restoring the K3's full functionality.