K3S TRANSCEIVER
- Overview
- Specs
- Options/Accessories
- Reviews
- Customize Your K3S
- FAQ
- Manuals
- Price List/Order
Overview
Elecraft’s state-of-the-art K3S transceiver offers a unique combination of ultra-high performance and affordability.
The factory-assembled K3S is comparable in both features and performance to transceivers listing at up to six times its price.
In a first for the industry, the K3S’s identical main receiver and subreceiver each feature a high-dynamic-range, down-conversion analog architecture. This allows Elecraft to provide roofing filters with bandwidths as narrow as 200 Hz for both receivers. Up-conversion designs have roofing filters typically 3,000 to 15,000 Hz in width. Each receiver has its own bus-switching mixer, narrow ham-band front-end filters, 32-bit I.F. DSP, low-noise synthesizer, and up to five crystal roofing filters. The KBPF3A option extends receive coverage down to 100 kHz, covers all SWL bands, and allows 0.5 mW transmit output on the 472 kHz (630 m) band for use with external amplifiers.
The K3S is the only deluxe transceiver that is targeted at both home and field use.
It’s well-suited to demanding DXpedition or Field Day operations. Its receive-mode current drain of typically 1 amp greatly facilitates battery or solar-powered mobile/RV/marine installations. But unlike smaller portable transceivers, the K3S’s user interface is optimized for ease of use, and its feature set rivals units many times its size and weight.
Two 32-bit digital signal processors provide true software-defined features, along with expansion memory to handle future signal processing tasks and operating modes. The operator will have full control over any operating situation, with 8-band receive and transmit EQ, stereo speaker/soundcard outputs, binaural effects, and advanced noise reduction.
Also included is built-in PSK31, CW, and TTY decode/encode, so the operator can enjoy the excitement of data communications with or without a computer. Users of new digital modes such as FT8 will gain a new competitive edge since the K3 has the industry's lowest noise floor and highest dynamic range. This combination of benefits is simply not achievable with the direct-sampling technology found in most "pure" SDRs.
The rig’s rich I/O complement includes an isolated sound card interface, front/rear mic/phone jacks, dedicated serial I/O, and band data. The K3S also provides transverter in/out and RX antenna in/out jacks. The latter allows the use of RX-only, in-line filters for extreme operating environments.
Specs
STANDARD FEATURES
- 160-2 meter all-mode coverage (2 meters with K144XV option)
- Superhet/SDR architecture with narrow ham-band filtering
- High-contrast, full-custom LCD with alphanumeric text display
- 100-W or 10-W (upgradeable) models
- 32-bit I.F. DSP (dual DSPs with sub receiver installed)
- Built-in PSK/RTTY decode/display; send data using CW keyer paddle
- High performance, low-noise synthesizer with 1-Hz tuning
- All radio firmware may be updated with the K3 Utility software
RECEIVER
- Optional sub receiver with performance identical to main receiver
- 2nd preamp for 12-6 m weak-signal work; 3 attenuator levels (5/10/15 dB)
- RX ANT in/out jacks included
- Optional general-coverage band-pass filters (KBPF3A); allows receive coverage down to 100 kHz, 0.5-mW transmit on 630-m band (472 kHz)
- Optional crystal roofing filters as narrow as 200 Hz; DSP filters to 50 Hz
- CW audio peaking filter (APF)
- Synchronous AM receive or envelope detection
- Easy-to-use Shift/Width/HiCut/LoCut w/ DSP passband display
- Automatic and manual notch filtering; adjustable noise reduction
- 8-band graphic equalizer with separate CW/voice settings
- Hardware and DSP noise blankers with individual level controls
- Center tuning indicator for CW and data modes
TRANSMITTER
- Adjustable output, 0.1 to 100 W+ (K3S/100) or up to 10 W+ (K3S/10)
- Rugged, SWR-protected finals; dedicated PA circuit breaker
- DSP I.F. speech processor with noise gate for maximum DX punch
- Dual 4-speed fans in K3S/100
- Fast, silent, PIN-diode T-R switching – no relays
- 8-band equalizer tailors mic audio to your voice and microphone
Additional Features
- Includes both USB and RS232 ports; Using USB port eliminates need for PC sound card and line-level audio cables (line in/out jacks still included)
- K144XV option adds 144-148 MHz, 10W, all-mode operation
- Transverter in/out jacks included; 9 transverter band displays
- Internal CW keyer with message buffers; voice messages with KDVR3
- User ‘macros’ automate often used sequences, such as custom SPLITs
- 100 general-purpose VFO memories and 4 “quick memories” per band (plus a free memory editor utility for use on your computer)
Options for the K3S and K3
- KAT3A 100W ATU
- K3EXREF - Ext 10MHz Ref Input for K3S
-
K144XV 144-148 MHz 10 W Internal Module
- K144RFLK - K144XV Reference Lock Board
- KXV3B - Transverter Interface upgrade for earlier K3 radios
- KDVR3 Digital Voice Recorder
- KPA3A Internal 100 W Upgrade Kit
Accessories
- P3 Panadapter
- K3/0 MINI Remote Rig
- K-POD, External Control Panel
- SP3 External Speaker
- ProSet-K2,
- MH4 Hand Mic
- SS30DV power supply
Upgrades for the K3S and K3
Parts & Mod Kits for the K3S and K3
Reviews
QST K3S Review Quote: "..the results are impressive. Overall receiver performance is right up there with the best radios the Lab has ever measured, and this is the first receiver we've tested with better than 100 dB IMD dynamic range at the closer signal spacing."
- K3S QST Review
- K3S Reviews on eham.net
- Receiver Performance Comparison Table, Sherwood Engineering
- eHam K3S Reviews
Customize Your K3S...Or Choose a Standard Package
Many operators choose a K3S standard package. These packages emphasize different options and crystal filters that are tailored to specific needs. If you chose to configure your own K3S, please take a moment to read ELECRAFT K3S Application Note: Configuring your K3S and K-Line System, K3S Crystal 'Roofing' Filters document from Wayne and Eric, and the Crystal Filter Response Plots.
FAQ
Q: What are the new features of the Elecraft K3S?
A: The K3S is Elecraft's second-generation, software-defined superhet transceiver (SDR). We've upgraded nearly every subsystem, improving performance and adding many new features. Here's a quick overview:
| New Features | Available now? |
| Ultra-Low-noise synthesizer | Unequaled strong-signal receive performance; exceptional transmit signal purity. |
| Second preamp (Preamp 2) | Built-in equivalent of Elecraft's PR6-10 low-noise amplifier (LNA) for weak-siginal work on 12,10, and 6m. Preamp 2 is part of the KXV3B module (now included as a standard feature). The KXV3B also provides RX antenna in/out jacks, transverter in/out jacks, and a buffered IF output for use with our P3 panadapter. |
| Multiple attenuation levels | Attenuation levels of 0,5,10, and 15dB; selectable per-band. |
| Dual computer ports (USB and RS232) | In addition to the legacy RS232 port, the new USB port integrates computer remote control and line-level audio.This eliminates the need for a sound card or external converters and their associated cables. Supports Windows, Linux and Apple platforms. |
| KAT3A option now includes bypass relay | Lower loss on bands where matched antennas are used. |
| Redesigned speaker amplifier | Stereo speaker outputs now have lower total harmonic distortion (THD) for reduced listening fatigue. |
| Fast transmit/receive switching | High-accuracy CW transmit timing--even at high code speeds wtih SPLIT, RIT, and XIT in use. |
| Extended coverage includes 630 and 2200 meter bands | When used with the KBPF3A option, receiver covers 630 m (472 kHz), and 2200 m (137 kHz), tuning as low as 100 kHz. Transmit output of 0.5-1.0 mW on 630 m (for use with an external amplifier). |
| Enhanced look and feel | New LCD bezel; soft-tough VFO A know with improved grip. |
Q: What components have been changed for the K3S? Are they available for the K3?
A: Nearly all internal modules have been upgraded for the K3S. Some of the modules that are compatible with the K3 are already available:
| K3S Module | New Features | Available now? |
| KSYN3A |
|
Yes Please order KSYN3AUG |
| KXV3B |
|
Yes |
| KAT3A | Includes true bypass relay for lower loss with well-matched antennas | Yes |
| KRX3A | Sub receiver now includes KSYN3A synthesizer |
Yes |
| KBPF3A | Redesigned filter extends Very Low Frequency (VLF) operation down to 100 kHz. |
Yes |
| KIO3B |
|
Yes Please order KIO3BUP |
| Soft-touch VFO A grip |
|
Yes Please order NEOGRIP |
Q: Will any other K3S modules or components be made available for K3 use?
A: Yes. The following additional K3S modules and components are compatible with the K3, and will be offered once excess inventory is available for upgrade purposes:
| K3S Module | New Features | Available now? |
| Main DSP board |
Enhanced speaker amplifier with low-distortion pre-driver |
Yes |
Q: What modules are unique to the K3S?
A: These upgraded modules (and components) are unique to the K3S and will not be available for K3 upgrades:
| K3S Module | What has changed |
Unique to the K3S? |
| K3S RF Board |
|
Yes |
| K3S Front Panel Board | Real-time clock frequency adjustable; calibrated at factory to better than +/-0.5 sec./day | Yes |
| Front Panel Sheet Metal | Updated silkscreen | Yes |
| K3S LCD/VFO Bezel | New single-piece molded bezel with logo and integrated VFO pointer | Yes |
Q: Will my existing crystal filters work with the K3S?
A: Yes, all K3 crystal filters are fully compatible with the K3S. They are configured in the same way.
Configure or Not to Configure Your K3S?
You have the option to choose one of three K3S packages that fits most amateur radio operator's needs, but if you chose to configure your own K3S, please take a moment to read ELECRAFT K3S Application Note: "Configuring your K3S and K-Line System" , "K3S Crystal 'Roofing' Filters" document from Wayne and Eric, and the Crystal Filter Response Plots.
Q: Can I move the KPA3 100-watt PA module from my K3 to a K3S, or do I need the new KPA3A module?
A: A KPA3 can be used in a K3S. However, we recommend using the KPA3A PA module, because the K3S RF board was optimized for use with the KPA3A's MOSFET power transistors. In a K3S, a KPA3A will typically provide 1 to 3 dB better transmit IMD performance, on average, than a KPA3.
Q: With the K3S, will I need to keep track of another set of firmware revisions?
A: No. New firmware releases will determine automatically whether you are using a K3S or a K3, and will support both original and upgraded modules. There will be no change in the numbering of these combined K3S/K3 firmware releases. You will be able to use K3 Utility to manage firmware updates for both transceivers.
Q: Will K3S serial number sequencing change?
A: Yes. K3S serial numbers will begin at 10000.
Q: What has changed on the rear panel of the K3S?
A: The most important change is to the communication ports in the upper right corner of the rear panel. This is where the new USB connector is located. The original RS232 port functions are preserved, though with a different jack type (RJ45) and a supplied DE9 adapter cable. The accessory jack (ACC) is unchanged. The included adapter cable (shipped with the K3S) duplicates the original 9-pin RS232 port, so you can continue to use all of your station accessories as before. The illustration below shows the rear panel of the K3S. The fan panel shown is supplied with100-W model.
Q: Can the KPA500 and KAT500 be used unchanged with the K3S?
A: Yes. The K3S supports these K-Line products. All cabling will remain the same as you see in the KAT500 and KPA500 Owner’s Manuals.
Q: Will the P3 operate with the K3S in the same way??
A: Yes. The K3S will support the P3 using the same cables you are using now for your P3 connections, with the addition of a supplied RJ45- to-DE9 adapter
Q: How can I operate the P3 and use the new USB port at the same time?
A: To use both USB connectivity and the P3, you’ll need a new cable, CBLP3Y. The CBLP3Y cable will enable direct USB connection while accommodating full P3 support.The CBLP3Y cable will be available directly from Elecraft. Price and availability will be announced prior to K3S shipments
Q: What will happen to the K3 now that the K3S is available?
A: With the introduction of the K3S, the K3 is no longer available. Elecraft production has already switched to the K3S.
Q: Now that there’s the K3S, what should I expect for support of the K3?
A: Elecraft will continue to honor all warranties and will continue to fully support the K3. There is no change to this policy in any way. Anyone who has purchased a K3 will continue to receive email support and firmware updates when they are made available..
Q: How long should I expect to get parts and email support for the K3?
A: Currently, there are no changes planned for parts andsupport for the K3
for the foreseeable future.
Q: Will Elecraft still provide phone call and email support for the K3?
A: Yes. there are no changes planned for parts and support for the K3 for the foreseeable future.
Q: Will the K3/0 Mini and Remote system work with the K3S?
A: Yes. all cabling and Remote System products will work with the K3S.
