I appreciate it when the camera has your log book in focus. It allows me to practice decoding and see the results in your log. Thanks for all the great videos.
This video inspired me to work on learning CW. I see that you slowed down for the beginner operator. Even more inspiring. And to hear how clear the KX1 sounds, wow, that’s amazing. And in my home state of NC. I may have told you this but I met a ham at the top of Mt Mitchell from TX who was on vacation inspired by your videos. Thank you! NDK
What a great little UnUn for the end fed. For me, size matters when it comes to portable QRP and that little guy fits the bill. For my HWEF40 I use #22 teflon insulated wire. Using the little UnUn you just showed will go great with my Antenna. A counterpoise is needed for me. Thanks for posting this interesting setup. KX1 is still a neat little radio. Barry, KU3X
Man this radio brings back some memories. I remember sitting on a huge rock with my Cw mentor and him calling Cq. Special radio for sure. Yes I would settle with the kx1c hehe. Tnx for your kindness
So this is a little folding knee board made by my friend Carolanne (N0RNM). They may soon be available for purchase. She printed this one herself and it has become one of my most valuable field tools for SOTA.
Thanks for the info. Thomas, regarding Adam's (K6ARK) End Fed antenna. I was impressed with the receive signals. Yes, the KX1 is a fantastic radio. I have one. It always amazes me. Especially with the clarity of the receive signals. Best 73, Richard, N6PKT
I can almost bet I saw the k6ark antenna on amazon a week or so ago, I know I put one in my cart at some point, but haven't been able to find them the past few days. This is my favorite youtube channel by the way. Thanks for the great content!
Another outing where I was able to make a QSO! nice, I registered with the WWFF thanks, I knew the 44 reference from a list of CW prosigns somewhere for the flora and fauna reference.
Another great activation video, Thomas! A nice way to transition back from vacation. I spent a week with QRP in OBX, including a few activations. Now back home with snow in the forecast... Best 73 de Brian - K3ES
I built a K6ARK 20-30-40 EFHW "BK" (before kit) based on Adam’s CZcams video. Worked so well that the incoming signals actually scared me they were so strong! It took me a while to figure out a methodology for tuning it, but once I did, was easy, if not quick. I now own 2 kits and can’t wait to break out of this nursing facility to build them (the facility has no sense of humor WRT soldering irons)!
Great stuff as always. I'm catching up on your vids. My first encounter with you was on the penntek45L video. Now I'm hooked. 3 months into LICW so far. My copy is still half the speed of smell, but it's coming along. These videos continue to motivate me to just get out there. Medium goal, make 50 more POTA QSOs as an activator. Long term, make a Kilo at Dunbar Cave park, Clarksville TN.
Now I’m jealous! I have been wanting a KX1 for years… I built the K6ARK EFHW as well… great kit, and works well. I use the radio (KX2)… the Random Wire (K6ARK) 9:1 UnUn would work better with the internal ATU (?). Great Video!
Well done and good to see Ruby out rocking again! I just built the same antenna and need to finish tuning it up. Bought one more to try one with a CP to see how that works.
I also got a k6ark kit, and watched a stream on ham radio crash course that Adam was on where they built the kit live. I believe you can build the kit with a counterpoise if you want to, I think Adam talked about how. Another great video, someday I hope to find a kx1 when I have the budget for one. I'm getting better at copying morse in your videos too, asking with my courses in doing. 73
The capacitance between the KX1 plus your body and ground provided the counterpoise, such as it was. Since the antenna is quite high in impedance when used on bands where the antenna is an integer number of half waves long, ground current is low. So it worked. But it might have worked a bit better had you used a better counterpoise. And when you tried 30 m, where a roughly 66 ft long antenna is about 2/3 of a wavelength long, the antenna had moderate resistance and a fairly high capacitive reactance, so there would be much more ground current and a decent counterpoise would be necessary. In addition, what the antenna impedance would turn into after it went through the 49:1 transformer is anyone's guess, though the KX1's tuner could probably cope. I wouldn't use the thing on bands where the antenna isn't anti-resonant without a decent counterpoise. Your body is going to have a lot of RF flowing through it if you do. I've got a pacemaker so I certainly wouldn't do it! (But with the pacemaker I stick to balanced antennas fed through balanced feedlines and a balun at the transceiver. I won't even use an EFHW antenna on bands where it is anti-resonant, even with a decent counterpoise. Those without pacemakers inside them are OK to do so.) David VE7EZM and AF7BZ
There are rechargeable lithium cell in AA format available using a special charger. Those may probably work but they have less capacity than NiMH cells which is a drawback. I was considering them for my KX3.
I have some of those AA cells. They simply don't last long because due to internal resistance, etc. I was hoping, but sadly they just don't have the capacity for any extended session. 5-10 minutes, they work okay.
Great little 1 grand to 2 grand qrp. IT better be amazing at those prices! I'm glad you had fun, but a Yaesu FT 891 isn't that huge, has 100 watts as well as a 5 and 10 watt QRP setting and can still be seen on sale for 500 to 600 bux.(3 year warranty).. Easy enuff to go digital mode with the correct cable jng and sound card. Menus are a learning curve at first BUT once set, forget it. Not knocking your success or adventure, BUT this is just waaaay too much for such a little radio.
I came within a hair of getting an FT-891 during HRO's Black Friday sale last year. IN the end I didn't although I know it's a fantastic radio. Think is, I really only do QRP in the field these days--back home, I have 100 watts if needed. The FT-891 is excellent and can do QRP, but it forces me to bring a bigger battery to cope with higher current in RX. I'll likely still grab one someday if for no other reason than just to give it a go at a park!
I love K6ARK's work -- he's got loads of neat building techniques and has gotten people excited about building antennas, which is always good! The K6ARK EFHW is also, unfortunately, a good example of being able to make QSOs with almost anything, since it's an unusually and unnecessarily inefficient EFHW. -43 ferrite is a great material for all sorts of inductors and transformers, but as used here results in ~33% of transmit power being lost in the core. 3 turns for the primary is simply not enough to obviate the losses of -43. -61 ferrite would have been a much better choice, and you could probably still fit the windings for a great matching transformer on the same FT50 size core. You can for sure on the next size up (FT82), since that's what I do.
Direct measurements by AI6XG show 1-1.5 dB of loss with a FT50-43 toroids in this configuration across the HF bands. Coincidentally, that's about what you get from a run of 10m of RG-316 or RG-174 coax on the same HF bands. I have experimented with other mixes of ferrite material, but have not been able to achieve adequate multi-band performance with them, so I have stuck with -43. It isn't perfect, but after all, every antenna is a compromise. This one gives you reasonable performance in a tiny package with no need for coaxial feed line.
you should try and make on like KEvin KB9RLW's EFHW witht the 4 ft of ladderline that works as a counterpoise combined with Adams Mini Balun ... then if it works I'll make one 🤣 Nick G8SYE
Another great video Tom that I wasn't in unfortunately , but my friend Pete WA2JMG was nice and loud to you gud 599 and vice versa. so still waiting to work you in Canada, I keep luking1 73 es thanks for sharing. de Ellis WA1RKS
As a guy learning CW & very POTAcentric I find vids like this very cool to help me learn. Keep em coming. K0ATV
I appreciate it when the camera has your log book in focus. It allows me to practice decoding and see the results in your log. Thanks for all the great videos.
This video inspired me to work on learning CW. I see that you slowed down for the beginner operator. Even more inspiring. And to hear how clear the KX1 sounds, wow, that’s amazing. And in my home state of NC. I may have told you this but I met a ham at the top of Mt Mitchell from TX who was on vacation inspired by your videos. Thank you! NDK
Thank you for sharing that!
Yes, I do love the KX1. It is a fun and amazing little radio.
Great radio and great antenna!
What a great little UnUn for the end fed. For me, size matters when it comes to portable QRP and that little guy fits the bill. For my HWEF40 I use #22 teflon insulated wire. Using the little UnUn you just showed will go great with my Antenna. A counterpoise is needed for me.
Thanks for posting this interesting setup. KX1 is still a neat little radio.
Barry, KU3X
Man this radio brings back some memories. I remember sitting on a huge rock with my Cw mentor and him calling Cq. Special radio for sure. Yes I would settle with the kx1c hehe. Tnx for your kindness
What’s that little desk thing you have the radio on? I’ve never seen that.
So this is a little folding knee board made by my friend Carolanne (N0RNM). They may soon be available for purchase. She printed this one herself and it has become one of my most valuable field tools for SOTA.
@@ThomasK4SWL that is super cool!
Thanks for the info. Thomas, regarding Adam's (K6ARK) End Fed antenna. I was impressed with the receive signals. Yes, the KX1 is a fantastic radio. I have one. It always amazes me. Especially with the clarity of the receive signals. Best 73, Richard, N6PKT
I can almost bet I saw the k6ark antenna on amazon a week or so ago, I know I put one in my cart at some point, but haven't been able to find them the past few days.
This is my favorite youtube channel by the way. Thanks for the great content!
They sell out very fast now.
Thank you so much. Those antennas do sell out very quickly. In fact, he just released a new batch and I bet they've sold out. :)
Another outing where I was able to make a QSO! nice, I registered with the WWFF thanks, I knew the 44 reference from a list of CW prosigns somewhere for the flora and fauna reference.
Nice radio and good antenna
Another great activation video, Thomas! A nice way to transition back from vacation. I spent a week with QRP in OBX, including a few activations. Now back home with snow in the forecast... Best 73 de Brian - K3ES
Oh my. I already miss OBX and am ready to go back myself! :)
Amazing, finally picked up your signal here in Northern MI. Woohoo! 🤙
44, W8DBC
WOO HOO! :)
With the rig sitting on your lap, you are the counterpoise.
I built a K6ARK 20-30-40 EFHW "BK" (before kit) based on Adam’s CZcams video. Worked so well that the incoming signals actually scared me they were so strong! It took me a while to figure out a methodology for tuning it, but once I did, was easy, if not quick. I now own 2 kits and can’t wait to break out of this nursing facility to build them (the facility has no sense of humor WRT soldering irons)!
I suspect your iron will be hot for many weeks after you're back at the bench, Carolanne!
Great video Thomas! You gave me just enough of a nudge to blow the dust off my KX1 and get out to do som POTA activations. Thank you!
Woo hoo! Another KX1 on the air!
Great stuff as always. I'm catching up on your vids. My first encounter with you was on the penntek45L video. Now I'm hooked. 3 months into LICW so far. My copy is still half the speed of smell, but it's coming along. These videos continue to motivate me to just get out there. Medium goal, make 50 more POTA QSOs as an activator. Long term, make a Kilo at Dunbar Cave park, Clarksville TN.
You've got this, Ed! And you're with the LICWC which means you'll get there faster than you would have guessed. I'm so glad you enjoy the videos!
Now I’m jealous! I have been wanting a KX1 for years… I built the K6ARK EFHW as well… great kit, and works well. I use the radio (KX2)… the Random Wire (K6ARK) 9:1 UnUn would work better with the internal ATU (?). Great Video!
Well done and good to see Ruby out rocking again! I just built the same antenna and need to finish tuning it up. Bought one more to try one with a CP to see how that works.
I think you'll be very pleased with this antenna! And, yes, I missed Ruby!
That lamp option is kinda cool for operating at night.
Agreed! It's brilliant! (no pun intended!)
I also got a k6ark kit, and watched a stream on ham radio crash course that Adam was on where they built the kit live. I believe you can build the kit with a counterpoise if you want to, I think Adam talked about how.
Another great video, someday I hope to find a kx1 when I have the budget for one. I'm getting better at copying morse in your videos too, asking with my courses in doing. 73
Yes--that HRCC video was what gave me the idea to buy one of the kits!
Great inspiration to get off my butt and learn code!
Here’s that hinged flight board. Going back further to find out about it :-)
Not sure why they stopped making the Elecraft KX1 Radio. Would so get one in a heartbeat
Thanks for the vid, Thomas. An alligator clip is great for those pesky blowing pages. -KE0VIM
Good tip!
The capacitance between the KX1 plus your body and ground provided the counterpoise, such as it was. Since the antenna is quite high in impedance when used on bands where the antenna is an integer number of half waves long, ground current is low. So it worked. But it might have worked a bit better had you used a better counterpoise.
And when you tried 30 m, where a roughly 66 ft long antenna is about 2/3 of a wavelength long, the antenna had moderate resistance and a fairly high capacitive reactance, so there would be much more ground current and a decent counterpoise would be necessary. In addition, what the antenna impedance would turn into after it went through the 49:1 transformer is anyone's guess, though the KX1's tuner could probably cope.
I wouldn't use the thing on bands where the antenna isn't anti-resonant without a decent counterpoise. Your body is going to have a lot of RF flowing through it if you do. I've got a pacemaker so I certainly wouldn't do it! (But with the pacemaker I stick to balanced antennas fed through balanced feedlines and a balun at the transceiver. I won't even use an EFHW antenna on bands where it is anti-resonant, even with a decent counterpoise. Those without pacemakers inside them are OK to do so.)
David VE7EZM and AF7BZ
Noted! Thank you for the info!
There are rechargeable lithium cell in AA format available using a special charger. Those may probably work but they have less capacity than NiMH cells which is a drawback. I was considering them for my KX3.
I have some of those AA cells. They simply don't last long because due to internal resistance, etc. I was hoping, but sadly they just don't have the capacity for any extended session. 5-10 minutes, they work okay.
Great little 1 grand to 2 grand qrp. IT better be amazing at those prices!
I'm glad you had fun, but a Yaesu FT 891 isn't that huge, has 100 watts as well as a 5 and 10 watt QRP setting and can still be seen on sale for 500 to 600 bux.(3 year warranty).. Easy enuff to go digital mode with the correct cable jng and sound card. Menus are a learning curve at first BUT once set, forget it.
Not knocking your success or adventure, BUT this is just waaaay too much for such a little radio.
I came within a hair of getting an FT-891 during HRO's Black Friday sale last year. IN the end I didn't although I know it's a fantastic radio. Think is, I really only do QRP in the field these days--back home, I have 100 watts if needed. The FT-891 is excellent and can do QRP, but it forces me to bring a bigger battery to cope with higher current in RX.
I'll likely still grab one someday if for no other reason than just to give it a go at a park!
I love K6ARK's work -- he's got loads of neat building techniques and has gotten people excited about building antennas, which is always good! The K6ARK EFHW is also, unfortunately, a good example of being able to make QSOs with almost anything, since it's an unusually and unnecessarily inefficient EFHW. -43 ferrite is a great material for all sorts of inductors and transformers, but as used here results in ~33% of transmit power being lost in the core. 3 turns for the primary is simply not enough to obviate the losses of -43. -61 ferrite would have been a much better choice, and you could probably still fit the windings for a great matching transformer on the same FT50 size core. You can for sure on the next size up (FT82), since that's what I do.
Direct measurements by AI6XG show 1-1.5 dB of loss with a FT50-43 toroids in this configuration across the HF bands. Coincidentally, that's about what you get from a run of 10m of RG-316 or RG-174 coax on the same HF bands.
I have experimented with other mixes of ferrite material, but have not been able to achieve adequate multi-band performance with them, so I have stuck with -43. It isn't perfect, but after all, every antenna is a compromise. This one gives you reasonable performance in a tiny package with no need for coaxial feed line.
Sorry "Tom" typo!
So Thomas, what do you call your KX2?
My KX2 is "Hedy." My KX3 is "Myrna." :)
Just connect 25-50 feet of coax to it for counterpoise.
Or, in my case, I can clip a counterpoise wire to the BNC shield or to a chassis lug.
Nice. Where did you hang the antenna?
In a nearby tree on the hill. Guessing the apex of the antenna was up around 45 feet?
Which do you prefer. Eleccraft KX1 or mountain topper?
The KX1. I love the Mountain Topper, but the KX1 is so darn versatile.
you should try and make on like KEvin KB9RLW's EFHW witht the 4 ft of ladderline that works as a counterpoise combined with Adams Mini Balun ... then if it works I'll make one 🤣
Nick G8SYE
Not a bad idea!
Wanna sell the rig. Ha
They're as rare as hen's teeth these days!
Another great video Tom that I wasn't in unfortunately , but my friend Pete WA2JMG was nice and loud to you gud 599 and vice versa. so still waiting to work you in Canada, I keep luking1 73 es thanks for sharing. de Ellis WA1RKS
I'll be on the air a lot more from up here! :)
Great video. I am in Spartanburg, SC. Let me know if you come down this way. KO4PXH
I do come down that way on occassion!
@@ThomasK4SWL let me know next time you are heading down this way.