This is great advice. I would build at least one item, it could either be the dummy load or the generator. They have the most use to me. If you are comfortable with those, go for the K2. Just more parts and instructions. Doable.
73, Bill K9YEQ K2; KX1; K3; mini mods; W2; THP HL-2.5Kfx ATS-3B -----Original Message----- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Craig D. Smith Sent: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 7:56 PM To: 'lstavenhagen'; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K2] how much harder to build: K2 vs K1? I think you will find some sound advice on this forum, LS. You raise a good question. I think the key is that you have done no significant kit building to date. There is nothing fundamentally more difficult about building a K2 vs. a K1. Both involve soldering lots of discrete components onto a PCB and then following the instructions for test and alignment using relatively simple test equipment. The K2 process takes longer and can be more time consuming, depending upon what options you select. Then again, even the K1 has what seems to be a never-ending pile of capacitors to install. I've successfully done both kits and have been pleased with the results. Given where you are at with kit building, I'm going to suggest a third alternative. Start out by building some of the small inexpensive test equipment kits that Elecraft offers, such as the dummy load, the 3 band signal generator, a balun, the step attenuator, etc. All of these will be helpful no matter which transceiver you ultimately decide to build. More importantly, they will get you comfortable with following the Elecraft instructions, soldering components, and testing a final product. After you have two or three of these kits under our belt, then start thinking about a transceiver. Along with your soldering iron, I would recommend that you invest up-front in an anti-static mat and accessories, good screwdrivers and pliers, and a dependable DVM intended for solid state equipment. Whatever direction you decide on, don't be shy about asking for advice here. 73 ... Craig AC0DS ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
