Elecraft KX2 and WSJT-X Easy Setup

by K0PIR · Published September 20, 2019 · Updated September 27, 2019

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):

Receiver and Transmitter

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

: Windows 10 Sound Settings

: Windows 10 Sound Settings

: Windows 10 Sound Settings

: Windows 10 Sound Settings

: Radio Tab in WSJT-X

: Audio Tab in WSJT-X

: Frequency Tab – Reset for FT4 Frequencies

: Adjust Power Slider for 4 Bars of ALC

Elecraft KX2 Connections to HP Stream Laptop

: Sabrent USB Sound Device

: Left Side View of KX2

: PA Temp

: RF Power 7 watts

: 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.

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73,

Rich, K0PIR

Sources:

The Elecraft KX2 by Fred Cady – KE7X

Elecraft KX2 Owners Manual

How to Save Your Ears When AGC is OFF

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