POTA activation with the Elecraft KX3 and AX1 Antenna: How far can I shoot my 10 watt signal?

[@Bob814u]

I subscribed to your channel after searching for ANY KX3 videos. I bought mine and had lots of questions. Today I want out to my 'shack' and pushed my 150 watt radio out of the way and hooked up the KX3. I got contacts with everyone I tried with a couple of having to repeat myself a couple of times. I was running 10 watts for voice and 5 watts for CW. Love the radio!!! I have the 2m transverter and was hitting the repeater 25 miles away, using 3 watts, with the antenna off my Kenwood TH-74A. "You sound like you are right in the room with us!" was the reply.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Brilliant! There's a reason why the Elecraft KX3 holds such a high position in Rob Sherwood's receiver test data: it's a rig built around performance. I love the KX3.

[@thequarantinecatholic]

I purchased a mint - low serial number 0184 KX3 from an Elmer. Ive been watching your videos about the KX3 for years and just love your videos, love my KX3 [been making appearances on the QRP Net Live Stream on Sundays] and love your channel. You have inspired so many to become CW operators. Thanks for your videos Thomas!

[@tommcmichael8679]

Oh, hey, don't worry about editing. It's refreshing to have what you produce. It seems more real and not sanitized.

[@AG7SM]

I'm using your videos to get up the guts to go on the air with CW. I've been using the LICW club materials, and trying to listen to as much as I can. I'm getting to the point where I can actually copy what you are hearing. This is all good stuff. Keep it up.

[@perojunak6949]

The best thing to do is simply get on the air with CW and stop waiting for that magic day to try. I suggest NOT getting into rag chews but instead do the cookie cutter name, qth and signal report QSOs so that tracking along is much easier and builds your confidence. Just do it because you don't need to copy 100%, only about 70% or so to get the info you need. Have fun!!!

[@jollyfe]

I don’t know why this is so fun to watch. Thanks for doing these.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

My pleasure!

[@potatoslim2332]

I like the real time nature of your videos. It helps to put into perspective what it requires to perform a POTA activation. Plus it's nice to have longer videos to watch when now a days the meta is luring in with clickbait and rolling ads on a 10 minute 1 second video. Hope to work you on the air, I've been more vigilant on pota spots these few weekends.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thanks so much! I know these types of videos aren't for everyone, but I feel like even if a few people enjoy them, it's worth it. I hope to work you on the air soon!

[@tommcmichael8679]

Again, Thank you! I just got a KX3 with the very purpose you showed today. Can't wait to be out in the field!

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I hope to work you on the air someday!

[@matthewg.garcia9415]

Been watching your channel. Currently learning CW. Came across this video from a year ago. Gotta say, I feel like watching the KX3 is helping me learn CW better lol.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I'm so happy to hear that Matthew. You've got this! Keep studying and (more importantly) listening to CW and you'll soon be very fluent.

[@tim123527]

A great video to watch and learn from. It was like I was there in the field with you and you answered all the questions I would have. Very helpful observations about the issues that came up. I think the KX3 is the ideal rig for this activity, noting your comments about the KX2 as well. They are in short supply in the UK at the moment. Mni tnx es 73 😊

[@steveh1130]

Hi Thomas. To echo what others have said, I enjoy the format of these videos. Conversational and refreshing. The run for paddle didn’t bother me in the slightest. Keep it up 👍 73

[@n97223]

Awsome video! These unscripted videos of field deployment are my favorite!

[@dennispeake1877]

Thomas, I enjoy your CW with POTA and I seem to pick the station start your QSO. Great to see a bloke enjoying his hobby and the great out doors. With your help I look like going back to CW been a few years mate. 73 best to your family. de Dennis vk4oc.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you, Dennis. Sounds like you're ready to hit the CW wave again. I must say, I've grown to truly love this mode. The simplicity...there's just nothing else quite like it. Stay healthy out there, mate, and let's try a proper DX contact someday! Best, Thomas K4SWL

[@ke4asc]

I always enjoy your videos, very well done. Thank you for posting these for us to see.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

My pleasure!

[@k2wo1]

Great video Thomas. Nice to work you on 20M........599 in FL with your AX1. 73, George K2WO

[@LeeMooreIII]

I’m awaiting a KX-2 and trying to decide between this AX-1 and the Buddistick. The AX-1 is smaller and lighter, but I’d be willing to give up on some portability if the performance is better. I haven’t found any comparisons of these yet. Thanks for doing these videos. Very inspirational. 73

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I believe the Buddistick is a larger vertical and has a wider frequency range. If you plan to make it your primary field antenna, I would go with something larger than the AX1. I use the AX1 when I want extreme portability and I also carry it as a backup in case something goes wrong in the field.

[@LeeMooreIII]

@@ThomasK4SWL after quite a bit more research, I decided I would like to have the AX-1 for the reasons you state, but also because I sometimes travel internationally for work. I have traveled with a Tecsun PL-880 for years, but am upgrading my license and planning to replace it with the KX2. Between trips, I hope to get out on the motorcycle and bicycle for some POTA stuff. Thanks for the reply.

[@barrykery1175]

Pretty impressive for such a small antenna. I'll have to try same this summer. Too cold here to set up portable. Right now it's 25 degrees here. Once we hit 60 degrees I'm ready to go Barry, KU3X/QRP

[@VE3NMW]

Your videos are very informative. Thank you!

[@terrysmith5802]

Thomas you make it look effortless I enjoy your vids and commentary ty and Happy New Year 2021

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Tell you so much, Terry!

[@-Mark_F]

Hi, great vid! I just looked it up and probably somebody already mentioned this already but to lock the frequency, hold down the KHZ switch in for about 3 seconds. I like the fact that your video was unedited. It gave it a true realism! ~73, WA4282SWL

[@-Mark_F]

(Ok I read further down and you fix it!). Cheers!

[@T-Hogie]

I've watched a few of your videos and have a 705 that I'm anxious to get out in the field to try my hand at POTA with it.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

The 705 is a gem of a radio! Yes, take it to the field and play radio! :)

[@MrCowboybud]

Such a great radio!

[@charlesmarlett6856]

The vidieos are wonderful. I really enjoy following along on the followups and callups. I can generally copy the responses and in my head. I enjoy CW. I find this helps a great deal keeping fresh in the code. Years ago while in the Navy I had a school and classes in learning morse code. I got my Novice license when I was in A school. Keep up the good work. Your commentary is very educational and welcome. TNX 73, Chuck WB9ZDS dit dit

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you so much, Chuck es dit dit! 73 Thomas

[@Surge1045]

Thanks again for a very informative session. It looks like that antenna is a good option.

[@glennblanchard8805]

I have that same green Tom Bihn bag. He makes the best bags IMO.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Agreed! They are top shelf!

[@bobwhitewo3b]

You might try a putting a felt washer under the dial to keep it from vibrating you off of frequency.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Actually, since then, I learned that I only needed to adjust the encoder to have a little more brake. It was actually a very simple fix.

[@gravestonemyth]

If the side tone is odd, you might be getting RF from the antenna mismatch. A 1:1 current balun might get rid of it.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Very good point, Steve! I often forget about RF coming back to the rig on QRP radios (anything below 10W) but it is certainly still a factor. Thanks!

[@Oscaro9928]

Have you looked at the Lab599 TX500?, I heard it is very rugged, they now have a battery pack that attaches to the back and an amplifier with an ATU built in…both in the same form factor and attachable to the back.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Yes, I have the TX-500 and love it. I'm looking forward to that battery pack coming out hopefully later this year.

[@motodevcam]

First time watching and really enjoyed this! I'm learning CW at the moment and watching you working stations is more helpful than you'd think. I like your calm considered delivery also! Subscribed! Could I ask, what are the several "E's" you send on a row?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I'm so glad you enjoy the videos and thank you for subscribing! Hmmm...I can't think of when I may be deliberately sending "E" in a string. Perhaps...actually, maybe when it's when I'm correcting myself. Typically, in CW, if you make a mistake (I'm quite good at that!) you send a few dits out of cadence to let the other op know you're going to repeat correctly. Maybe if you could give me a time in the video where I do this, I could confirm! You'll be hitting the air with CW before you know it!

[@motodevcam]

@@ThomasK4SWL aha! That's what it will be! I did wonder if it was a slang "H I" thats exactly what you did, repeadly tapping the left dit paddle. This is great, and highlights exactly why your videos are helpful. Seeing a real QSO ans the different nuances. Great job!

[@michaelgreenwood1162]

Would setting the frequency step finer make for a smaller frequency change. You did coped well with the problem

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Yes, that would have been a good idea, too. I could have also simply locked the VFO, but I forgot how to do it! :) I know now, but am so used to the KX2 which has a different button for lock.

[@gt3940]

If you press and hold the rate button for 3 seconds to the right of the vfo knob, a padlock will appear above the "a" vfo and near the mode (now in CW) on the display and it will lock the vfo knob. A simple touch of the rate button again will release the vfo knob from being locked.

[@philippehaake6123]

A very nice little GREAT antenna.... With my kx3 ssb 15 w and AX1 antenna I made a qso from Geneva Switzerland to Brasil........ Very nice result. 73 qro HB9GUR

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Impressive! Wow! 73, Thomas K4SWL

[@Dr-T]

Thomas. I think you need a replacement encoder on your main tuning dial. (There was a problem with a batch of encoders. Maybe yours needs replacement?) Another good activation. 73 Bruce G4ABX

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Noted! I'll check into this.

[@Zayne_24]

Can you do a video of the KX3 in VHF?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I would if I had the 2M module, but I don't, sadly.

[@n2dabloo]

Best one yet. The devils in the details so to speak.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you!

[@walshgeo]

Nice video. What is the name of 😊the case that you have your AX1 in? 73 George KB3 WAQ

[@ThomasK4SWL]

It's the Maxpedition Fatty Pouch: amzn.to/3d8RewV

[@N6QW]

Hi Tom, Thanks for the video. Nice activation. I have a KX3 --makes me want to get it on the air operating portable. Any suggestions for an antenna other than the Elecraft unit? 73's Pete N6QW

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Definitely! If your KX3 has the optional ATU, try this super simple antenna: qrper.com/2021/06/field-report-lets-build-a-super-simple-antenna-on-site-and-activate-this-park/ Also consider an End-Fed Half-Wave. You can build one, or there are numerous ones on the market. If you want a great field vertical (and don't mind forking out a bit of coin) check out the Chameleon MPAS Lite. It's one of my favorites. Again, though, you'll need an ATU. The KX3 is a fantastic field radio! Have fun out there!

[@N6QW]

@@ThomasK4SWL Hi Thomas. My KX3 does have the ATU and I watched the video on the simple build in the field wire antenna. Thank You. Actually I have a repurposed camera tripod so I might try my hand at brewing up some vertical antennas with parts from a Hustler and Ham Stick, No trees in my backyard lab -- thus the vertical idea. Great videos. 73's Pete N6QW

[@daveryan2148]

What's the great little field case you have for ax1 and notebook?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

This one right here: qrper.com/2021/02/maxpedition-fatty-my-choice-elecraft-ax1-antenna-case-pouch/

[@pipiaakotze]

where did you get the plastic case for your ham radio bench power split device, Thomas?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

It was a long time ago, but I bought it from a ham in Huntstville, AL. I can't seem to find the info now, though.

[@pipiaakotze]

@@ThomasK4SWL hey thomas, thanks anyway for your reply! it looks so much better with this case and more durable.

[@chaugen1]

"No self-respecting KZbinr would leave a minute of dead video..." and yet here I sit, biting my nails, anticipating the first QSO, while you BOOP your car 🤣

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Ha ha ha!!!!! :)

[@perojunak6949]

Hello Thomas, what is the paddle you are using and where do I order one? You started to elude to it but never revealed it when you came back from the car with it.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Those are CW Morse Pocket Paddles. You can find a link to the model I was using (along with other gear links) in the accompanying post on QRPer.com: qrper.com/2021/01/pota-field-report-pairing-the-elecraft-kx3-with-the-ax1-antenna-and-seeking-distant-stations/

[@jrjet21]

Thomas, great video. Have you ever used an extension to move the antenna to an elevated position? Thanks, Carl N7CJR

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I have, but only to put it on a tripod--not exactly an elevated position. I will give it a go, though! Cheers, Thomas K4SWL

[@MM0OPXFieldRadio]

Hi Thomas, as others say. I quite like the unedited version. I listen to your video's as podcasts driving to and from work. Apologies if I have missed it but what type are tour paddles. I would like a nice lighter weight set for portable work. 73 de Colin

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you, Colin! The paddles are CW More Pocket paddles: cwmorse.us/product/pocket-double-paddle-morse-code-key/ I can't recommend them enough. They're not Begali paddles or anything but they're durable and very effective--easy to adjust in the field as well. I love them. 73 de Thomas

[@MM0OPXFieldRadio]

@@ThomasK4SWL Thanks Thomas. POTA is very here new in GM with most parts not activated yet. I'm desperate to get out and start once this latest lockdown ends. Really enjoying your video's.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

@@MM0OPXFieldRadio I've so many friends in the UK right now chomping at the bit to start activating. :) I wish I could do some activations in Scotland of both parks and summits. My wife and I travelled through there a number of times (when we lived in England) and the scenery is stunning.

[@MM0OPXFieldRadio]

@@ThomasK4SWL Awesome. We have a little bit of everything but just not the great expanse like you guys do. If your over and local ish to West Lothian then reach out and I could set you up a station at a park of down next to salt water to play some radio. My email is always good on QRZ.

[@petrok1rp254]

I really hate the buzzing audio cause of case resonating together with speaker... I have the same issue on my KX3 and I never found the way how to solve it. Shame on Elecraft that they released it with that serious issue.

[@DrHWO]

Had same problem and cheaped out on the solution. Detached the speaker and remounted it with a blu-tac grommet. Benefit is no more buzz, cost is lower audio volume.

[@petrok1rp254]

@@DrHWO many thanks ! Can you let me know more about blue-tac grommet please? Where to get pls? Cheers. Petr

[@DrHWO]

@@petrok1rp254 Hi Petr, I have replied twice only to have my responses deleted. Not sure why! I don't think it was Thomas - KZbin probably. Nothing offensive!!

[@qrptedmac]

Thomas I’ve tried multiple times to sign up for a POTA acct and after hitting the sign up button the page kinda flashes and just sits there. I’ve tried with safari and chrome and get the same thing. Are you aware of problems? PS: I got registered. Wasn’t working on this iPad. Worked at work on a PC.

[@SteveSmith-fs8dn]

Very impressive, Thomas! I always enjoy your videos, too. I'm curious, though, how you enter the times when you transfer the log to the computer if you're not entering the info real time. It only makes a difference for park-to-park contacts, but I don't remember how much leeway they give to match them.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Good question! So in this situation I was logging on paper, but also logging on my Surface Go tablet to my left and slightly off camera. It runs N3FJP software and tracks logs by the minute so times are very accurate. If I’m not using the tablet during an activation, you’ll see that I note the time with each contact on my paper logs. Thanks!

[@frasermderry]

Hi Thomas. Another thoroughly enjoyable video. Forgive me but I must nit-pick a little bit on your terminology. You use the phrase "full break-in QSK". The code QSK means, by itself, "full break-in operation", so you're being redundant, essentially saying "full break-in full break-in operation". A small nit to pick, but it grates every time I hear it. Keep up the good work, I enjoy your field op vids. I'm putting together all the pieces I need to start doing my own POTA activations. As soon as I get the antenna (Buddistick pro) I'll begin setting it up to take out. 73, Marc N1QGM

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thanks for the knowledge! :)

[@lpark8]

Thanks! Great videos - appreciate you letting us know all the details. Just wondering: why were you not getting 15W output with a KX3?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

This likely had to do with my battery voltage. To get 15 watts, you need something north of 13 or 13.2 volts, if memory serves. I would need to research to confirm the number.

[@lpark8]

@@ThomasK4SWL ok thanks - I think I have that same battery in your video Bioenno 3Ah BLF-1203AB and it gives me >13V (13.7 just now when fresh). Asking because I was going to buy KX3 in part to get 15W on SOTA. Hard to get heard out here! 🙏🙏🙏73 de VA6WTE

[@abrahamnorthhampton3327]

Have you ever done a POTA from Pilot Mt State Park?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I haven't yet, but it's on my bucket list because it's within an easy drive of Hickory. :)

[@qrptedmac]

Hmm Texas. That’s a nice hop for that antenna. At least it seems to be. That bi pod on the antenna. Does that come with the kx3 shack in a pack or is that something aftermarket? And I dig these vids. Time doesn’t matter to me.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I know that the Bi Pod is a separate purchase with the AX1 antenna, but I bet there's a shack in the pack option that includes it. Fun little antenna!

[@MatthiasLenardt]

Hi Thomas, you gained 1 min. extra KZbin watch time ⏳️ Thanks for sharing 👍 Best, Matthias DL1NDG

[@gravestonemyth]

I noticed W6LEN mentioned WWFF and sent 44's (around the 23 min mark). I know there is tension between WWFF and POTA, so I'd love to hear your thoughts on WWFF. Do you ever dual-submit your logs?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I think WWFF is an excellent group, too. I've never submitted my logs to them, but I probably should. Frankly, I forget to do so mainly because of the additional workflow back home that it entails (tweaking the log file again). I've also heard there has been some tension between the groups, but I think it's limited to very few in both organizations. We hunters and activators ignore the politics/drama and simply play radio. :) I actually don't think it's a big deal anymore. You're reminding me that I do need to check again on the process of submitting WWFF logs.

[@Stevenfclark]

How does this antenna work with voice or phone? 73 de N1AD

[@ThomasK4SWL]

It works. I've made a number of phone contacts with it. It takes a little extra patience with phone, but very doable. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL

[@notreallydaedalus]

Does the KX-3 have a controls lock to keep that VFO from wandering? I sometimes need to use that during couch operations when the dogs want to get involved :)

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Yes it does! It's not obvious, though. Simply press and hold the kHz button for about three seconds--you'll hear a beep and see the lock icon. You can even lock VFO B. Here's a sheet describing it: ftp.elecraft.com/KX3/Mod%20Notes%20Alerts/How%20to%20Lock%20the%20VFO%20on%20the%20KX3.pdf

[@bobscott7049]

I am curious how you are getting Internet on your Surface Go. Park provided wifi? Very much enjoyed your video. Thank you. Bob W4ZY

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I have a Sprint Hotspot that uses their 4LTE network. It works only at a few parks as many are too rural to obtain a good signal. Only once was I able to use a park WiFi. Another approach I use is my iPhone's personal hotspot. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL

[@FFdo.]

was overheating causing the frequency drifting?

[@bugout3547]

Can you suggest a good system to learn cw? There is so many out there , and I just feel kind of overwhelmed .

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I'm a HUGE fan of the Long Island CW Club--indeed, I'm a lifetime member. The community is so supportive, the classes are amazing and their resources are deep. They can take you from newbie to experienced op. You can't go wrong joining them. There is also CW Ops and CW Academy and I hear great things about both, but have no experience myself.

[@jlowknight]

Hi Thomas! Hey what power distributor would you recommend if we can't find the one you use with your set up? thanks in advanced. 73

[@ThomasK4SWL]

On the recommandation of a friend, I purchased one of these $25 DC panels which is very similar to the kit I built. I liked it enough that I bought an additional one for a friend. They're inexpensive, durable enough and properly fused: ebay.us/WmY78W

[@jlowknight]

@@ThomasK4SWL Perfect! Thank you for the quick response. I took your word and one is on its way! cheers.

[@2e0hpi]

Really enjoyed this video and excellent setup, Feel free to join the Elecraft AX1 antenna user group on Facebook 🙂

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Just sent in a request, Carl. Thanks for the suggestion! Cheers, Thomas K4SWL/M0CYI

[@2e0hpi]

@@ThomasK4SWL your most welcome Thomas I run a number of groups such as the AX1 / Super Antenna / Alex Group 🙂 glad to have you aboard 73 Carl 2E0HPI

[@eddy2561]

Nice video......IMO if a cw op won't QRS then I won't work them, they can kiss my grits...HI HI

[@rgbivins]

I am a little late to the party on your youtube channel, I see you are in North Carolina, if you get to the High Point area give me a shout! WA4GMD

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Noted! :)

[@guillecwdiaz1622]

Send You a little vice!... More cw , less speak!

[@WKMG365]

Excellent video! Thanks for another one, good luck. Mat - K4OCY

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you, Mat!

[@Nostrildomus]

C00L