Elecraft KX2 and WSJT-X Easy Setup
Sometimes all we need is a little QRP transceiver, a weak signal mode and a good antenna. In comes the Elecraft KX-2, WSJT-X and a random wire. It can be used successfully in the field or at home (Ham Shack Portable). Although CW is preferred by many, you’ll find more opportunity to make short contacts (QSLs) using FT8. However, Morse code is more exciting because there’s conversation and more human interaction. The Elecraft KX2 is well suited for CW ops. I think it’s the best backpacking/SOTA HF transceiver around.
Sabrent USB Sound Card
Elecraft KX2 WSJT-X
With the Elecraft KX2 transceiver I am using a Elecraft KXUSB serial cable, Sabrent USB Sound Card
, two 3.5mm stereo male-male audio cables
, an HP stream laptop
running WSJT-X version 2.0.
Sabrent USB Connections to KX2: Sabrent Mic In to Elecraft KX2 Phones. Sabrent Speaker Out to KX2 Mic In.
The antenna I am using inside the Ham Shack is a 80′ random wire with a 9:1 UNUN.
K0PIR Suggested KX2 Settings ( See Video Below):
- MODE: DATA A (WSJT-X will assist, but verify it is Data A mode and correct FIL width)
- NB: OFF
- NR: OFF
- PRE: OFF
- RF Gain: 0
- FIL BW: 4 kHz
- FIL Center: 1.5 kHz
- AF: 2-10
- AGC MD: OFF (See: How to Save Your Ears When AGC is OFF)
- AGC LIM: 20
- MIC GAIN: 0-50 (4 bars of ALC on transmit
- PWR: 5 to 7 watts
- MICBIAS: OFF ( may not be necessary to turn OFF)
My WSJT-X settings:
- Rig: KX2
- PTT: CAT
- Mode: Data/Pkt
- Split: Fake It
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- Windows 10 Sound Settings
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- Windows 10 Sound Settings
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- Windows 10 Sound Settings
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- Windows 10 Sound Settings
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- Radio Tab in WSJT-X
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- Audio Tab in WSJT-X
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- Frequency Tab – Reset for FT4 Frequencies
-
- Adjust Power Slider for 4 Bars of ALC
Elecraft KX2 Connections to HP Stream Laptop
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- Sabrent USB Sound Device
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- Left Side View of KX2
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- PA Temp
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- RF Power 7 watts
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- ALC 4 Bars
Elecraft KX2 Settings for Digital Modes Data A Video
Thank you
More to come on WinKeyer 3 and RTTY FSK. Post your thoughts below in the comment section.
If you have any questions, comments or solutions, please comment below. I prefer the comment section here or in YouTube over e-mail because your comments and questions will help others as well.
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73,
Rich, K0PIR
Sources:
The Elecraft KX2 by Fred Cady – KE7X
Elecraft KX2 Owners Manual
Did you add the IQ output to your Kx2? If so did you see any difference after the change? Have you used it on since the install.
Hi Tim,
I have not. I hope all is well with you. Take care and best 73!
When I connect KX2 to my computer in digi mode, psk31 ,Olivia, WJST all work normal, the only thing I want is get the radio speaker noise back, I don’t know how to do it, I have Yeasu 818nd, in digital mode still can hear the speaker noise.any ideal?
thanks!
VE6DAI
Hi JUN,
It’s nice to hear from you and thank you for posting here.
Sense the speaker output from the radio is going into to your computer, you will have to enable the audio in the computer. Go into the USB Audio CODEC microphone setting,Listen Tab, and check off “Listen to this device.”
I believe that should do it. Thank you again and best 73! Stay safe.
Rich, K0PIR
Could I use these setting for mrp40 CW decoding software. I’ve just ordered the sabrent sound card and audio leads.
Hi John,
Nice to hear from you and sorry for the delay.
Yes that should work FB.
I would try the software Elecraft has too. It will decode just like the LCD does.
Best 73 and be safe!