The kit arrived Friday and I spent most of Saturday building it (after running down to Radio Shack to get an ESD wrist-strap and anti-static mat package -- built a lot of stuff without ever using those items, but I wasn't going to take any chances with my new K3.)
Completed and tested the 10W kit on Saturday and installed/tested the 100W PA on Sunday. Everything is working fine so far. No problems during construction -- panels fit fine, negligible button flex, etc. All calibrations were successful, though I had to go the very lowest setting of WMTR HP (10) to get the external meters (an LP-100A and a Nye RF Power Monitor) to read 50W. Anyone else have to go that low? I have a few suggestions to send to Elecraft on building the kit, but the only important one is that maybe the KBPF3 should be installed before the PA shield to make it easier to see the pins and sockets mating. Otherwise, the kit is extremely well thought-out and the instructions are excellent. I haven't had this much fun since Heath went out of business. My first impression, as a long-time user and beta tester of that *other* SDR, is that the K3 is a terrific product. The design and construction are first-rate. With one exception (on which I'll make another post), the ergonomics are excellent. It'll take some time to gauge the performance, but early indications are that it's going to great. Can't wait to use this baby in a serious contest effort. 73, Dick WC1M _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
