Tag: elecraft

*NEW* Elecraft KX2 Beta Firmware 2.79

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2

Hi guys, a new beta firmware version is now available for the enthusiasm Elecraft KX2 testers!

There is the firmware notes revision :

 

* SIDETONE VOLUME CAN BE SET LOWER:  MON=1 is now about 12 dB lower in volume than it was originally. MON=50 is about the same as the original maximum.

* AUTO-OFF TIMER RANGE IS 5 TO 100 MINUTES:  Auto-power-off (MENU: AUTO OFF) allows the radio to turn itself off if no controls are touched for the specified length of time. (The original range was 3 to 20 minutes.) If auto power-off is not desired, set the menu parameter to INFINITE (default).

* VFO A LOCK DISABLES COARSE VFO A TUNING WITH OFS/B CONTROL: This is intended to prevent accidental frequency changes due to touching the OFS/B control. As long as VFO A is locked, the offset-tuning feature will also be locked. (RIT, if used, is still *not* locked. RIT may be needed to fine-tune received signals even if the VFO itself is locked on a given transmit frequency.)  Note: Coarse tuning of VFO A using the OFS/B control is enabled using MENU: VFO CRS.

* FILTER BANDWIDTH & ULTIMATE ATTENUATION FIX:  Filter bandwidth settings ending in x00 Hz are now increased internally to x50 Hz to ensure excellent ultimate attenuation (stop band). For example, a setting of 400 Hz becomes 450 Hz. This is a temporary workaround for a DSP algorithmic issue with the x00 settings that will be corrected in a future release. Available bandwidth settings are now 50 Hz, 150 Hz, 250 Hz, 350 Hz, etc. These are entirely adequate for virtually all operating purposes.

 

The firmware is actually tested within a closed group for now, but it will be available shortly by using the Elecraft software utility.

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73

de Jeff | VA2SS

Using RUMlogNG for iOS with an Elecraft KX2 over Bluetooth [Part 2]

On By VA2SSIn Building projects, Elecraft KX2, Hardware

 

I finally found some spare time today; the weather was not so good outside, and I’m on vacation this week… that’s help a lot! 🙂 My main objective today was to build a functional prototype, a proof of concept.

Step 1 : Install and power the Bluetooth module on a breadboard using a small 5V power breadboard supply.

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Step 2 : First I used my logic analyzer probe with the software Logic from Saleae on MacOS to verify if all communication parameters were well set. Hooray! I transmitted the word “TEST” between the iPad Adafruit app running on the iPad Pro and the Bluetooth module.

Then I established a link between the Bluetooth module and RUMlogNG To Go iOS app running on my iPad Pro. The Bluetooth module needed to be recognized first before going further.

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Step 3 : Another step was to install a MAX322 chip needed to «translate» the information using the RS-232 protocol between the Bluetooth module and the Elecraft KX2. Note the MAX322 must be powered at 3.3V. The Bluetooth module can provide such voltage output. But for this prototype, I  powered the chip using a 3.3V voltage line from the breadboard power supply.

Step 4 : Every components are now properly hookup. RUMlogNG To Go iOS app on the iPad Pro and the Elecraft KX2 are ready to establish a link. Note the baud rate must be set properly on the transceiver at 9600 bauds. As you can see in the picture below, I entered the CAT command IF; and the KX2 returned me the frequency on VFO A 14.210.

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There is a short video below I captured from my iPad Pro with the Elecraft KX2 and RUMlogNG To Go controlled by the Bluetooth interface in action!

Note that I captured the initial footage with the new capture function available in iOS 11. Then I completely edited the video and did all effects with my iPad Pro using the iOS LumaFusion. A great app!

My goal still to build the project for under 35$ USD. I’m also planning to design my own PCB board and offer it as a kit; Fritzing is already running on my Macbook Pro.

More to come in my next post!

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73

de Jeff | VA2SS

Using RUMlogNG for iOS with an Elecraft KX2 over Bluetooth [Part 1]

On By VA2SSIn Building projects, Elecraft KX2, Hardware

Hi everyone! It is not a surprise for people who knows me well, I am an addicted fan of all Apple products. I am also the kind of guy who is always searching for a way to get more of his gears and enhance the overall experience; especially for my iPad Pro!

My project is to build a Bluetooth interface and let me connect my Elecraft KX2 to my iPad Pro while using my favorite logger RUMlogNG To Go for iOS. At the moment, RUMlogNG To Go support only 2 methods to connect to a transceiver : Bluetooth or Piglet. (I know, this is a known iOS limitation to access external devices). 🙂

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I really do prefer a connection over Bluetooth for many reasons, but at first for energy efficiency. I like this logger app, even the MacOS version. It is a very powerful iOS app with a lot of nice add-on features like a versatile DX cluster, world map with grey zone, logbook import and export using Dropbox, and much more! The developper Thomas DL2RUM really pay attention for all feedbacks received from users. Cheers to Thomas! 🙂

I will use for my project the Adafruit Bluetooth LE interface. It is really a polyvalent  board, compatible with Apple iOS, that can be easily integrated inside all custom built projects. I bought mine at DIGIKEY store; their iOS app is also really cool! Everything is done using my iPad Pro. I am even writing this blog using exclusively my iPad Pro. Hi Hiiiiiiiiii ‼️🎉😜

I will also use a wide known and available MAX3323 chip for the serial communication between the Bluetooth board and the Elecraft KX2.

The project will cost under 35$ USD to build. I’m also planning to design my own PCB board and offer it as a kit. It will be almost a plug and play experience, easy to assemble to everybody!

More to come in my next post!

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73

de Jeff | VA2SS

*Update* Elecraft KX2 Beta Firmware 2.77

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2

*Update* Elecraft KX2 Beta Firmware 2.77

There is an excellent note from Wayne N6KR related to the last beta firmware version 2.77 who also includes a few tips on how to manage the log feature.

 

When using the KX2 hand-held, logging may be difficult. The KX2 can now capture
up to 2048 transmitted characters, along with time, band, and mode, so you can
update a paper or electronic log later on.

To enable logging, set MENU:LOGGING to ON. Logging applies to CW (C), PSK-D (P)
and FSK-D (F) modes, and only when using the internal keyer. To take advantage
of time stamping, either set the time (MENU:TIME) on every power-up of the KX2,
or install a KXIO2, which includes a real-time clock powered by the internal
battery.

When logging is enabled, the DVR icon (above the S-meter) flashes slowly.
Outgoing text decode is turned on, allowing you to make sure you’ve sent call
signs accurately. If you fill the log, LOG FULL will be shown briefly, and the
DVR icon will stop flashing.

To review logged text, tap DISP and rotate VFO B to find the LOG display. The
VFO A knob can then be used to scroll through text. Time/mode/band are shown on
VFO A (e.g., “0023 C14”); text is shown on VFO B. Holding CLR erases the entire
log. To “dump” the log, send “LG;” to the KX2 via KX2 Utility’s Command Tester
screen.

Tips: To conserve space, use message buffers (MSG) to send CQs, name/QTH, etc.
Messages are not recorded in the log. To start/stop logging quickly, assign the
LOGGING menu entry to a programmable function switch (PF1-PF4).

Wayne Burdick, N6KR

 

The firmware can be downloaded from this link :

ftp://ftp.elecraft.com/KX2/firmware/beta

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73

de Jeff | VA2SS

UPDATE: Elecraft KX2 heatsink from ProAudioEngineering

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2, Hardware

Elecraft KX2 heatsink from ProAudioEngineering

I finally found some spare time to install the heat sink. As for my previous side panels from Scott, I was already aware on how to disconnect the BNC connector easily.

Here a few pictures when I installed the heat sink side panel. The installation procedure was quite straight forward. Removing the BNC connector, applying thermal compound and reassemble the KX2 took me 10 minutes. So it is an easy upgrade to accomplish. The user manual also gives to the user advice on how to achieve with less trouble all necessarily steps.

Removing the BNC connector seems to be the real tricky part for most user. But you only need to take a sharp tool, and carefully release the red wire from the plastic connector. You will be then able to remove the BNC connector from the side panel. Be careful to not break the connector.


Applying the correct amount of thermal compound is essential. Adding too much will not be more effective, and can be even worst. If the compound is spreaded on other vital electronic parts, it could create serious issue.


When properly aligned, you are now ready to reassemble the KX2.

I will test the KX2 using digital mode in the field later this summer.

More information could be directly seen on Howie website at : ProAudioEngeering

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73

de Jeff | VA2SS

 

*NEW* Elecraft KX2 Beta Firmware 2.77

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2

Hi guys, I am a little late, I know, but I was away and quite busy for my work. As of May 26th, Elecraft released a new beta firmware for the KX2 with 2 new cool add-on features : a QSO decoded text buffer and the ability to access 4 programmable buttons instead of only 1. It is very useful to execute some complex macros without the need to browse in the menu.

There is the firmware notes revision :

  • BUILT-IN LOGGING (CW and DATA MODES): When using the KX2 hand-held, logging may be difficult. The KX2 can now capture up to 2048 transmitted characters, along with time, band, and mode, so you can update a paper or electronic log later on.To enable logging, set MENU:LOGGING to ON. Logging applies to CW (C), PSK-D (P) and FSK-D (F) modes, and only when using the internal keyer. To take advantage of time stamping, either set the time (MENU:TIME) on every power-up of the KX2, or install a KXIO2, which includes a real-time clock powered by the internal battery.When logging is enabled, the DVR icon (above the S-meter) flashes slowly. Outgoing text decode is turned on, allowing you to make sure you’ve sent call signs accurately. If you fill the log, LOG FULL will be shown briefly, and the DVR icon will stop flashing. To review logged text, tap DISP and rotate VFO B to find the LOG display. The VFO A knob can then be used to scroll through text. Time/mode/band are shown on VFO A (e.g., “0023 C14”); text is shown on VFO B. Holding CLR erases the entire log.To “dump” the log, send “LG;” to the KX2 via KX2 Utility’s Command Tester screen.
    Tips: To conserve space, use message buffers (MSG) to send CQs, name/QTH, etc. Messages are not recorded in the log. To start/stop logging quickly, assign the LOGGING menu entry to a programmable function switch (PF1-PF4).
  • FOUR PROGRAMMABLE FUNCTIONS: The KX2 now has four programmable functions, PF1-PF4, rather than one. These can be used to quickly access often-used menu entries. To set up a programmable function, locate the desired menu entry, hold PFn, then tap any of ‘1’ through ‘4’. Exit the menu. From then on, the menu function can be accessed using the associated PFn switch. If a menu entry has only two values (such as ON/OFF), accessing it via a programmable function will select the alternate value, then exit the menu immediately. This is especially useful with menu entries such as DUAL RX, VOX MD, ALT MD, and ATU DATA (see below).
  • TWO ATU DATA SETS: The KX2 will now store two full sets of per-band data for the internal ATU (KXAT2). Use the ATU DATA menu entry to select which set to use. Typically SET 1 is used at a home location, and SET 2 for field operation. They can also be used in cases where more than one antenna is available for a given band. (Note: The ATU DATA menu entry has no effect on KXAT100 ATU data, which is already stored separately for each of the KXPA100 amplifier’s antenna jacks. The KX2 can remotely switch KXPA100 antennas using the ANT.X SW menu entry.)
  • ATU LC NETWORK VALUE DISPLAY: In either the ATU.DATA or ATU MD menu entry, tapping the “ATU” switch shows the present values of L (inductance), C (capacitance) and N (L-network configuration). This applies only to the internal ATU (KXAT2). The displayed data format is LxxCxxNy. is a 2-digit hexadecimal value that, when converted to binary, shows which ATU L or C relays are engaged. shows which side of the L-network the capacitance is on: Nt = TX side, and NA = antenna side.
  • ATU CLEAR AFFECTS ONLY CURRENT DATA SET: Within the ATU DATA or ATU MD menu entries, CLR (hold of the OFS/B knob) now clears KXAT2 ATU data only for the presently selected data set (SET 1 or SET 2) on the present band. As before, CLR is recommended when using the internal ATU with a new antenna. Once the data is cleared, very few ATU tune operations will usually be needed to cover an entire band. Note: If a KXPA100 amplifier is connected, the CLR operation applies to the KXAT100 ATU’s per-band/per-antenna data, not to the data for the internal KXAT2 ATU.
  • PSK-D/FSK-D SIDETONE HANG FIXED: Corrected a problem where sending characters at very slow speeds or with paddles continuously pressed could cause a transmit timeout, leaving the sidetone on.

The firmware can be downloaded from this link :

ftp://ftp.elecraft.com/KX2/firmware/beta

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73

de Jeff | VA2SS

New! Amplified AlexMic from PY1AHD for the Elecraft KX2 and KX3

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2, Hardware

New! Amplified AlexMic from PY1AHD for the Elecraft KX2 and KX3


Alex PY1AHD showed me yesterday at the FDIM his new product for 2017, the amplified speaker microphone for the Elecraft KX2 and KX3. Of course, Alex kept one for me for my own pleasure! Thanks Alex! Hi Hiiiiiiiiii ‼️🎉😜

The microphone is connected directly into both transceiver mic and earphone connectors. That way, the audio is now completely rerouted to the amplified speaker microphone. We have to admit that the internal speaker system into a KX3 or a KX2 is in some way quite limited… but that’s ok… we all want a small transceiver form factor.

The microphone comes with an internal lithium battery that can be used for more than 8 continuous hours. So it will last for the whole day without any problem. To charge the speaker mic, a provided cable let you easily do it by using any 5V standard USB adapter found on the market.


The audio response is between 200 Hz and 8 kHz and weight only 200g. With a maximum 2.5W audio output, it will let you hear anything more easily by having it nearer to your ears. The user also has the possibility to connect a pair of small earphone directly beneat the microphone body. A 3.5mm mono connector is located beside the mic cord. A blue LED indicates that the device is indeed turned on, and becomes purple when charging.


This speaker microphone performance is actually well welcome by the Elecraft team and active users. It represents an excellent addition to all portable solutions for people using an Elecraft KX2 or KX3 in the field.

For a price at 125$ USD, it really worths it. The lack of audio when being portable is now easily solved with this nice piece of equipment from my friend Alex PY5AHD.

More information could be directly seen on Alex website at : AlexLoop website

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73
de Jeff | VA2SS

Elecraft KX2 heatsink from ProAudioEngineering

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2, Hardware

Elecraft KX2 heatsink from ProAudioEngineering

Hi guys, I finally put my hands on the new heatsink for the Elecraft KX2 from ProAudioEngineering… I am a big fan of their products. Again, it is a nice product well manufactured. When adding the heatsink, you can still use the lexan cover from GEMproducts. So, if you previously installed both side panels from Scott, you will need to replace the right side panel with the new one that now include the heat sink.

The installation procedure is already well known. But as a reminder, Howie also give you a well written instruction manual with a few hints on how to perform easily the heatsink panel installation. This is really a straight forward procedure, it could be done in minutes. But you should take your time and be careful. Removing such parts like the molded connector could be easily broken if not proper consideration is taken.

Priced at 60$ USD, it’s not free, but well designed. And knowing how Howie works for a few years now, you can be assured his product is the finest you can find to fit your needs with your Elecraft KX2.

More information could be directly seen on Howie website at : ProAudioEngeering

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

73

de Jeff | VA2SS

 

Portable mini paddle for the Elecraft KX line as a kit!

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2, Hardware

I discovered a few weeks ago, when I was reading the Elecraft usergroup, an intriguing CW paddle kit from QRPGUYS.com at a very cheap price of 25$ USD plus shipping.

I decided to order one, at this price, not much to loose, but many people were talking very positively of it. I received the kit a few days later. The building experience was just fine. First of all, the instruction sheet was well written and explained. All steps were very easy to follow. But all soldering steps asked me to be patient and precise. A good soldering iron station and a bench vise, as a third hand, is extremely recommended.

The instruction sheet was not included with the parts, but it was easy to download directly from the website.

Step 1 : Do the parts inventory.

Step 2 : All building steps… everything under 2 hours.

Step 3 : Fine tune and spacing adjustement.

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The result is quite interesting. The key can now be easily attached to the Elecraft KX2 or KX3 using the same connector header as Elecraft use for their own key using the two thumb screws.

With proper adjustment using a small Phillips screwdriver, the user fine tune the touch and feel he prefers by adding less or more turns to both screws. The rubber paddle can also be adjusted by being a little bit larger if you prefer, or just because you are having bigger fingers. By adding a few more spacers between the rubber paddle and the small metal label makes the paddle a little bit more larger.

At the end, I am very satisfied with the product. It is an excellent alternative if you do not want to spent more money on the Elecraft or Begali key. It took me about a hour to build. A two paddles kit version is also available.

For more information, please visit QRP Guys website at www.qrpguys.com.

Meanwhile, do not forget to follow me on Twitter @VA2SS, and subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have fun and stay tuned!

Best 73,

Jeff | VA2SS

 

 

HardRock-50 amplifier interface from HobbyPCB for the Elecraft KX2 and KX3

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2, Hardware

Hi folks,

My friend Jim WA2EUJ from HobbyPCB just sent me a few days ago, for testing purpose, a brand new HardRock-50 amplifier interface for Elecraft KX2 and KX3. This little interface let you use quickly your Elecraft KX2 or KX3 with your HardRock-50 amplifier with standard cable, without the need to build custom cable, and let you use also at the same time your KXUSB cable to control your transceiver with your PC.

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With this addition, all HardRock-50 users will not need to make custom cables to drive their amplifier with their transceiver. A cable kit comes with the interface. This way, I was able to connect easily my Elecraft KX2 with the HR-50 by using the 4 conductors 3.5mm cable provided with the amplifier interface. Once properly configured, the HR-50 will change band automatically and will follow the transceiver band change accordingly. The interface will also key the amplifier from the transceiver when hitting the PTT or the TUNE button.

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The setup is some kind easy and straight forward. Here is a example for my Elecraft KX2 :

  1. Connect the 4 conductors 3.5mm cable between the Elecraft KX2 ACC connector and the HR-50 interface KX2 ACC.

    IMG_1268
  2. Set the baud rate in the HR-50 setup menu. It must match the baud rate already set in the transceiver setup menu. Mine is set on both sides at 38,400 baud.

    IMG_1271

  3. Set also the option KX3 Serial to ON into the HR-50 menu.

    IMG_1272

  4. On the KX2, the feature called AUTO INF must be set to ANT CONTRL. The transceiver will then transmit over the serial line a text string information, and let the HR-50 know on which band it needs to change. This option is easily found under the TECH SUPPLEMENTAL MENU. To access it, you must set TECH MD prior to ON to be able to set AUTO INFO value to ANT CONTRL.

    IMG_1273

  5. Optionally, you can also connect the KXUSB serial cable to your PC and into the KXUSB port on the HR-50 interface.

    IMG_1269

  6. That’s it, you are all set!

Now, with everything properly set, when the band change on the KX2, the HR-50 change also automatically to the correct band. And when the transceiver transmits, the HR-50 also transmits automatically.

Again, this small interface avoid the need to build custom cables to hook the Elecraft KX2 or KX2 with the HardRock-50. It also gives the user the possibility to still use the KXUSB cable for the Elecraft KX2 or KX3 at the same time with the computer, just exactly as the Elecraft KXPA100!

I’m using it with RUMlogNG on my Macbook Pro, and it is working great!

For more information, you are invited to visit HobbyPCB website at http://www.hobbypcb.com

Meanwhile, do not forget to subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have a great summer and stay tuned!

73

Jeff | VA2SS

Elecraft KXPD2 Precision Keyer Paddle Review

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2, Hardware

Hi everybody,

Finally I just received last week my Elecraft KXPD2 keyer paddle that was back ordered since my purchase back in last May at the 2016 Hamvention. A nice addition to a mobile kit of course. Even if I do not use CW very often, I do appreciate to have a complete kit, and also to have an optimized setup by choosing excellent quality components. The KXPD2 is now part of my gears in my portable setup.

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The major difference between the KXPD3 and the KXPD2 is of course the size. The KXPD2 is less smaller than the previous paddle version previously designed for the KX3.

Of course, by having shorter paddle means also that the mecanic pressure should be different than having longer paddle. But Elecraft did a great job on this. Even with shorter paddle, the pressure needed still extremeley smooth. The pressure needed is also extremely well adjustable. I already had the KXPD3, and with the KXPD2, I can tell you that I cannot see any difference on the pressure needed to trigger a DIT ou DAH. The mechanical parts are also well deisgned…. Elecraft did an excellent job on this one.

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They also addressed the previous major issue they had with their KXPD3. The KXPD2 offer now an excellent contact mechanical system to avoid loosing DIT or DAH for many reasons already known. The 2 contacts for DIT and DAH on the KXPD2 now rely on 2 small soldered steel wires. So that way, the paddle contact system do not rely on moving parts like it was on the previous initial version of the KXPD3.

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Caution must be taken with the 2 small steel wires. They are not so well protected against “loosy” fingers when the operator attach or remove his
paddle. The operator must avoid putting his fingers too much closer the paddle body where the wires are located. By moving a wire by accident, it could makes contact with the ground, and the KX2 will be stuck with a repeated DIT or DAH! Even an error message could appear on the KX2 display when turned «ON» : «ERR KEY». If you see this message on your transceiver display, you have probably a «short» contact on your paddle: check your wires! 🙂

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The paddle body is also made with rugged and transparent well machined «lexan» style component. Like the previous model, the paddle is getting attached the same way to the transceiver body, by using 2 thumbs screws : easy to attach, easy to remove.

Again, there is an adjustement point per paddle related to the distance between the paddle and the contact point. The adjustment is very precise and let the operator use the paddle the way is really feel confortable with it.

Meanwhile, do not forget to subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Have a great summer and stay tuned!

73

Jeff | VA2SS

 

Elecraft KX2 «Go Box» from Thomas OE2ATN

On By VA2SSIn Building projects, Elecraft KX2, Hardware

I recently found that Thomas OE2ATN recurred and built another great «Go Box», but this time for the Elecraft KX2. What a great addition for people who like to have something very neat and compact in a small enclosure.

I’m still impressed about all the details he takes care when he is building his project. Everything is well sharp, and nothing is left aside. It is like an «art project».

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The project use a water tight «Peli 1050» brand enclosure, the European version of the «Pelican 1050» from the well known company Pelican in the USA. I never verified the quality of the European version, but I assume the quality is the same because they are both from the same company holding using the same quality standard.

More about the company relationship: http://www.peli.com/eu/fr/about/our-story/

This kind of case is now very easy to find on the market. Elecraft KX2 deserves to have the best case! 🙂

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There is 2 common questions people are asking him. More FAQ could be found on his website listed below at the of this post.

The right PowerPole is for charging the internal Battery. The original KX2 battery cable was connected to the switch and then runs back into the KX2.
So you can cut it from the KX2 and load the LiIo via the right PP. Of course on your own risk as Elecraft suggests to remove the battery while charging. My note on this solution: Do you remove your laptop / tablet / phone …. -battery while charging? Sure there might be different opinions now. In ON-position the right PP supplies the voltage of the internal battery – maybe for a little LED to have some light on the knobs or any other accessory.
The left PowerPole is connected to the 12V jack for an external supply on the KX2.

Heatsink and airflow I do not really care about heat because I´m not operating for longer periods (mostly on mountain tops) and I do no data modes. Just phonie and CW. Never had any heat problems with my old GoBox design, even when operating in direct sun for around half an hour.

I invite you to visit his personal website at the addresse below:

https://www.oe2atn.at/tom/kx2-gobox-2016/

Thank you Thomas OE2ATN to share your project and idea with us!

Do not forget to subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Stay tuned!

73

Jeff | VA2SS

Elecraft KX2 : The KXIO2 board installation

On By VA2SSIn Elecraft KX2

I finally received last Tuesday the KXIO2 addon board for the KX2. This board consist in adding 2 independant I/O ports and also a real time clock.

The two I/O ports could be set accordingly to your needs. By example, you could set port 1 to have an output signal to switch an external device, and port 2 could be set to have to activate an external relay controlling a remote antenna or even a remote switch. These two I/O ports could be also set and use on a “per band” basis.  See page 43 of the KX2 user manual for more details.

The process is well straight foward of course. Again, Elecraft instuction sheet are well written and easy to follow. It took me less than 5 minutes to install the board.

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The first step is to remove the KX2 left side panel by removing the 2 bottom screws. The 2 other screws must be removed too, but they are not holding the panel in place at the moment. There is a 4 connectors header that contain 3 pins each…. the KXIO2 board will fit there.

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Once the board is properly installed, the additional external I/O port is now visible on the upper right side of the KX2. Note that you must pry a little the KX2 enclosure to let the board fit in properly. When the board is properly fitted, you only need to put back the left side panel, but this time using all 4 screws…. just put aside the 2 nylon nuts… there are not needed anymore.


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The next step is not turn “ON” the option KXIO2 board by going into the KX2 menu. You must set the parameter value from “NOT INST” to “NOR” for normal. Look for option KXIO2 into the KX2 menu. Then going to “TIME” option and set the correct time… see page 48 in the KX2 user manual for more details.

Note that you have also the possibility to improve the time accuracy by changing the “RTC ADJ” value. This value compensate for the “normal” error related to the accuracy of the circuitry used. You can read more about this feaure on page 47 of the KX2 user manual. In my case, I rarely use seconds…. so I let this as is for now.

That’s it! You have now 2 independant I/O ports and a real time clock inside the little jewel!

NOTE: This I/O port functionality has replaced the previous RX I/Q port found on early KX2 field version only. So, there is no way to use this port with a PX3 panadapter anymore… or at least at this moment. 🙂

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Please, subscribe to my blog and my YouTube channel as well.

Stay tuned!

73

Jeff | VA2SS