Accessibility of the Elecraft KX3
for Blind and Vision-Impaired Operators
Elecraft expects to start selling the new KX3 all-mode HF transceiver in late 2011. It has three features of special interest to blind and vision-impaired amateur radio operators:
• Audio CW feedback about settings
• Rig monitoring using a computer
• Outputs for use with a large-screen panadapter
The KX3
The KX3 is a portable HF transceiver capable of operating on all modes (SSB/CW/DATA/AM/FM). It is compact—measurements are 3.4"H x 7.4"W x 1.7"D.
The maximum power is 10 watts, and a 100 watt amplifer will also be available. There are optional internal antenna tuners for the radio and the amplifier.
The Elecraft KX3 Web page gives details about the radio, including short video demonstrations.
Rig Monitoring
An Accessory/RS232 port and supplied cable make it possible to monitor and control the KX3 using a computer. A remote control program such as Ham Radio Deluxe can display the radio settings on a large screen for higher visibility.
Audio CW Feedback About Settings
Wayne Burdick, N7KR, of Elecraft reported by email that the KX3 will have an audio CW feedback feature. The details are not available yet.
The audio CW feedback feature of the Elecraft portable CW transceiver, the KX1, is described in a separate article. Audible Morse code in response to the use of all controls can tell you the operating frequency, menu parameters, and switch settings.
High Visibility Panadapter
The KX3 is a software defined radio (SDR). In-phase and out-of-phase (quadrature) audio signal components are available at a single Rx I/Q jack on the side of the case. This makes it possible to set up a high visibility panadapter using a computer with a sound card, SDR software, and large LCD display.
Summary
The Elecraft KX3 all-mode transceiver has significant accessibility features for blind and vision-impaired hams.
Author Information
Peter DeNeef, AE7PD, is an Extra Class amateur radio operator in the U.S. This web site has no ads or conflicts of interest.
Email: HamRadioAndVision "at" gmail "dot" com.
rev. 12/12/2011
Related Articles: Rig Monitoring Basics
KX1 Audio CW Feedback