ELECRAFT K3S Instruction Manual

Elecraft • www.elecraft.com • 831-763-4211
Technical content subject to change without notice
For more information, please contact: [email protected]
K3SFrequently Asked Questions
Ver. C 5/12/15
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Q: What are the new features of the Elecraft K3S?
A: The K3Sis 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
Benefits
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-signal work on 12, 10, and 6 m. 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 15 dB; 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 with
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-touch VFO A knob with improved grip.

Elecraft • www.elecraft.com • 831-763-4211
Technical content subject to change without notice
For more information, please contact: [email protected]
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
•Very low close-in phase noise
•Faster T/R switching
•VFO tuning down to 100kHz (with KBPF3A)
Yes
Kits available for order now.
Please order KSYN3AUPG
KXV3B
•Built-in low noise preamp for 12/10/6 m
Yes
Kits available for order now.
KAT3A
Includes true bypass relay for lower loss with well-
matched antennas
Yes
Kits available for order now.
KRX3A
Sub receiver now includes KSYN3A synthesizer.
Yes
Kits available for order now.
KBPF3A
Redesigned filter extends Very Low Frequency
(VLF) operation down to 100 kHz.
Yes
Kits available for order now.
Q: Will any other K3Smodules or components be made available for K3 use?
A: Yes. The following additional K3Smodules and components are compatible with the K3,
and will be offered once excess inventory is available for upgrade purposes:
K3S
Module
New Features
When Available?
KIO3B
•Adds direct USB connection
•Eliminates need for PC soundcard and cables
•RS232 connection remains supported; adapter cable
included with K3S
Available later this year
Main DSP
board
Enhanced speaker amplifier with low-distortion pre-
driver.
Available later this year
Soft-touch
VFO A band
•Updated design with new grip pattern
•Softer material for improved tuning feel
Available later this year

Elecraft • www.elecraft.com • 831-763-4211
Technical content subject to change without notice
For more information, please contact: [email protected]
Q: What modules are unique to the K3S?
A: These upgraded modules (and components) are unique to the K3Sand will not be available
for K3 upgrades:
K3S
Module
What has changed
Unique to
the K3S?
K3SRF Board
•Added 5/10/15dB Attenuator
•Lower RF and digital noise floor
•Better port-to-port isolation
Yes
K3SFront 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
K3SLCD/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.
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 K3Sor 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 K3Sserial number sequencing change?
A: Yes. K3Sserial numbers will begin at 10000.

Elecraft • www.elecraft.com • 831-763-4211
Technical content subject to change without notice
For more information, please contact: [email protected]
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(KPA500, KAT500, P3, P3/SVGA)
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 with
100-W model.
Q: Can the KPA500 and KAT500 be used unchanged with the K3S?
A: Yes. The K3Ssupports 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 K3Sin the same way?
A: Yes. The K3Swill 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 K3Sshipments.

Elecraft • www.elecraft.com • 831-763-4211
Technical content subject to change without notice
For more information, please contact: [email protected]
Q: What will happen to the K3 now that the K3Sis 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 and support 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.