Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
John, Et Al,
I am reading some really good ideas. Here's one I used...
While building my KX-1: When I conducted my inventory, I taped the
resistors, inductors and capacitors right to the pages of the book.
Okay... A little funky, but 1) I knew the inventory was correct when I
was done (no open spaces!) and 2) where there is a question about a
component (some are different wattages or unusual markings), it helped
to see that I already had a space filled. For large quantity
components, I had old plastic pill containers (I tend to knock things
over). 3) When the assembly instructions called for a component, I
pulled if from the tape. I could have also checked off the component ID
on the page. As it happens, I didn't do the checking off part, but a
more Monkish person might, and it might help keeping one from using the
wrong part (i.e., looking for L2 and seeing that it's missing...).
Anyway, it is a more through double check.
Hope that's helpful to someone... {'-)
Regards,
kurtt
Kurt Pawlikowski, AKA WB9FMC
The Pinrod Corporation
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
(773) 284-9500
http://pinrod.com
John Huggins wrote:
OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my
son; He needs to see a process like this unfold.
I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc.
I am not new to kit building.
We have a good soldering station.
If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add
enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter,
100Watts)..
Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin?
John
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RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Tape - cardboard - plastic - paper - A My ESD training (what little I've had) is causing all sorts of alarm bells to go off! I fear that many of us have taken techniques that worked fine in the pre-ESD days and are applying them in cases where they are dangerous. Yea, I know that caps (most at least) and resistors are not ESD sensitive, but that partially assembled K2 board, already populated with some ICs is. When I did my K2, I had it on a grounded ESD mat and I wore a wrist strap the whole time. I stored all my parts in metal mixing bowls or just laid them on the mat. I'm sure this was overkill but it was easier to use good ESD practice than to try to discipline myself to apply it only when it was needed. - Keith N1AS - - K2 5411.ssb.100 - -Original Message- While building my KX-1: When I conducted my inventory, I taped the resistors, inductors and capacitors right to the pages of the book. ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Tools I found useful: - Magnifying ring light I far prefer an Optivisor. It makes it easy to look at the item in question with or without magnification, depending on distance - I can position the workpiece and the instruction manual such that I can shift my view from one to the other without big head movements. In addition, the swing down extra magnifier is perfect for inspecting the quality of my soldering after every round - I do this in stages, rather than trying to inspect the entire board at the end. 73 de chris K6DBG ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Keith, You are, of course, right, but 1) I do have an ESD mat (and use it!), and, 2) no, I didn't tape down the sensitive components. I will say this though: Doing this helped a lot because there are several components that could have easily been confused (some inductors and a resistor or two), which were not. As far as I know, resistors, capacitors and most (if not all) diodes will not be damaged by ESD. Note: Diodes will either conduct when forward biased or zener and conduct when backwards biased - thought I'm not sure about special diodes [barrier, shotkey (sp?), and the like]. And, normal ESD damage is caused by high potentials arching within the component. I believe diodes have plenty of capacity to absorb the power, either forward or reversed biased. Capacitors will simply charge (which is why attaching a capacitor to a Van de Graph generator is a Bozo no-no). At any rate, I have never heard of any of these types of components being damaged by ESD: Has anyone? Regards, kurtt Kurt Pawlikowski, AKA WB9FMC The Pinrod Corporation [EMAIL PROTECTED] (773) 284-9500 http://pinrod.com Darwin, Keith wrote: Tape - cardboard - plastic - paper - A My ESD training (what little I've had) is causing all sorts of alarm bells to go off! I fear that many of us have taken techniques that worked fine in the pre-ESD days and are applying them in cases where they are dangerous. Yea, I know that caps (most at least) and resistors are not ESD sensitive, but that partially assembled K2 board, already populated with some ICs is. When I did my K2, I had it on a grounded ESD mat and I wore a wrist strap the whole time. I stored all my parts in metal mixing bowls or just laid them on the mat. I'm sure this was overkill but it was easier to use good ESD practice than to try to discipline myself to apply it only when it was needed. - Keith N1AS - - K2 5411.ssb.100 - -Original Message- While building my KX-1: When I conducted my inventory, I taped the resistors, inductors and capacitors right to the pages of the book. ___ 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 ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
-Original Message- ... no, I didn't tape down the sensitive components. -- From an ESD point of view, that's cool, but when you pull the tape away from the paper, you're generating a static charge which may make it to your 1/2 populated board and cause problems with components on the board, right? Maybe it is a low probability issue or maybe having the board on a mat eliminates the risk. I don't know. --- Capacitors ... I have never heard of any of these types of components being damaged by ESD: Has anyone? -- I work with one EE who says there is an issue with caps where the breakdown voltage (is there such a thing?) of a very small value cap may be less than the voltage generated by ESD. Still, caps of all values at this company are considered not ESD sensitive. In my case, I'm really not smart enough to know what is and is not a real problem so it is just easier to treat everything as if it is sensitive even if I know (or think) it isn't. 73! - Keith N1AS - - K2 5411.ssb.100 - ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
It rarely happens because a lot comes into play, humidity, proximity of certain clothing, walking on carpet,etc. If Humidity is up around 60% or higher, not wearing wool or synthetics, and not a lot of foot traffic on the wool carpet next to your workspace, you have probably nailed down 99% of hazard. a small ionizing air blower of the correct polarization is often used to further enhance the environment. Have I ever killed a chip? Yes, several expensive computer chips die in my classroom every year. Despite the precautions and ESD safe work areas, concrete floors, etc, a student will absentmindedly pick up a RAM or CPU and put it in a pocket or slide it across a cardboard sheet used to protect a non-ESD-proof work bench and kill it instantly. It's the 'unconscious' actions that'll do it. And these computer parts all contain ample ESD protection diodes,etc, but still fall victim. Don't gamble with the parts. In Aerospace we are taught about LATENT DEFECTS. This is an ESD weakening of the component that isn't detectable during normal testing. It's only after launch when the boogers are 25,000 Km out in space or on the surface of Mars that they start too fail. In ham terms that's the equivalent of the 8th hour in a contest or when you hear the rare DX return your call. So don't take it for granted that you got away with the handling of the parts just because the rig turned on and you hear a W6. It may be catastrophic and it may just reduce the performance of the rig to less than advertised specs - so always do the best you can to protect. 73 es good luck AL, WA6VNN ** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
I always find a DMM that measures capacitance and inductance very handy to check parts. I have a wavetech that cost about $80.00 about 5 years ago that does that. I did NOT do a parts inventory, I had no patience for one, was missing no parts, but had a few places where I had trouble identifying the part...inductors mostly. The caps I tried to organize in piles on the desk with the values written in pencil on the desk, there are a LOT of caps and a LOT of different valuesa LOT of piles Otherwise, its all soldering (a lighted magnifier is great, staples sells them, along with other places). I had zero real issues when done, but trouble shot the power output circuitry for a while, as its VERY subject to swr in the base radio. Building is incredibly fun, you want to get done and try the rig, but once its done, you miss the building Brett N2DTS -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of John Huggins Sent: Tuesday, August 14, 2007 12:09 AM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2 OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? John ___ 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 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Must haves == Good light Magnifying glass Dental pick Negative lock tweezers (big ones do not send parts flying) Good Multi-meter Handy items === Frequency counter - or you can wait till all is complete and use WWV/Spectogram Capacitance meter - not required, but it helped me with identifying parts The rework eliminators are useful, as mentioned. Also some of the Elecraft mini-modules are big help in filling out some of your test equipment for alignment. I have the noise generator and the one for setting the S meter, but I wished I had picked up the dummy load and a couple of others. K2 is a great project. Real straight forward, and great think tank here to ask questions to. Best of luck to you. David Wilburn [EMAIL PROTECTED] K4DGW K2 #5982 John Huggins wrote: OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? John ___ 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 ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
On Tue, 14 Aug 2007, Brett gazdzinski wrote: The caps I tried to organize in piles on the desk with the values written in pencil on the desk, there are a LOT of caps and a LOT of different valuesa LOT of piles ergo, a nice big, clean table space for all the piles is ideal. If you are more organized, a fishing tackle box or something similar with lot's of little compartments to label also helps. Building is incredibly fun, you want to get done and try the rig, but once its done, you miss the building Thank goodness for the add-ons! :-) Good luck with the build! Will, part way done his K2. ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Yes, plastic organizer boxes did help. In the craft section at Wal-Mart. Sorted and inventoried parts and put caps, diodes, resistors in one, and misc hardware in the other. Helped out quite a bit. David Wilburn [EMAIL PROTECTED] K4DGW K2 #5982 David Wilburn wrote: Must haves == Good light Magnifying glass Dental pick Negative lock tweezers (big ones do not send parts flying) Good Multi-meter Handy items === Frequency counter - or you can wait till all is complete and use WWV/Spectogram Capacitance meter - not required, but it helped me with identifying parts The rework eliminators are useful, as mentioned. Also some of the Elecraft mini-modules are big help in filling out some of your test equipment for alignment. I have the noise generator and the one for setting the S meter, but I wished I had picked up the dummy load and a couple of others. K2 is a great project. Real straight forward, and great think tank here to ask questions to. Best of luck to you. David Wilburn [EMAIL PROTECTED] K4DGW K2 #5982 John Huggins wrote: OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? John ___ 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 ___ 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 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
John, Congratulations on your decision. Equip yourself with a set of flush cutters if you don't already have them - while diagonal cutters will be OK for the K2, flush cutters are required in a few areas of the KPA100 and several other options - overall they make a neater finished product. If your eyes require it, get a god magnifier. You will likely need at least a magnifying glass to read the markings on the small capacitors - I use a small lighted handheld magnifier for that, but I do not like using a magnifier for soldering - I am fortunate that my eyes will allow that, yours may prove otherwise. A good #1 Phillips screwdriver, a small flat bladed screwdriver and small long nose pliers are good things to have. There are many other 'helper' tools, but most of my building is done with just the soldering station, a couple screwdrivers, my flush cutters and small longnose pliers. a hemostat type clamp is handy for securing small objects (like crimp pins) while they are being soldered. I suggest that you get an anti-static mat and a wrist strap if you do not have one already. ESD is a 'sneaky' thing that can reduce the useful life of active solid state components. Above all, have fun, use what works best for you, and don't stress about the rest - each of us has our own way of working, and while we can say what works for us, you will have to develop your own techniques - many folks really like board holders, but I find them cumbersome. 73, Don W3FPR John Huggins wrote: OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Rework Eliminators - They're great provided you are willing to spend the time to make sure they get installed right. They represent a departure from the normal build process and if you mess things up, then debugging may be tougher. I went with them, and was careful. I had only one bad solder joint and the rig worked just fine. I love my rework eliminators as they've allowed me to plug and unplug various options at will. Prewound toroids. I like building but winding toroids is something I chose to not do. I went with prewound toroids on all my Elecraft kits and highly recommend them. They are done in a very professional way. Tools I found useful: - Magnifying ring light - Circuit board vise - anti-static mat grounded to the outlet ground screw. I did not do an inventory ... until I got to the caps. There are a lot of them and they're easy to confuse. I spread them all out and put them in piles. Getting them all out helped me separate the small differences and correctly ID the various types. I arranged the piles so I could easily find the part I needed. - Keith N1AS - - K2 5411.ssb.100 - -Original Message- Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Just a comment here - keep the ICs and transistors in their black foam (or pink plastic bags) ESD safe holders. Remember that many plastics can build a static charge. I suggest that you ignore any thoughts about sticking the components into styrofoam - that does generate static. As another personal taste note, I find that digging into a cup-like or box-like container to extract parts is a pain - I line up leaded parts by value and stick their leads into the edge of corrugated cardboard. A USPS Priority Mail box cut in half makes 2 good trays for holding the hardware parts and lots of cut corrugated edges to stick the parts into. Old time Heathkit builders will recognize this method. 73, Don W3FPR David Wilburn wrote: Yes, plastic organizer boxes did help. In the craft section at Wal-Mart. Sorted and inventoried parts and put caps, diodes, resistors in one, and misc hardware in the other. Helped out quite a bit. ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
John, There's lots of good advice here - I used a small pocket magnifier to read the markings on some of the components. At some point I bought a magnifying lamp from the local office supply store - it worked fine for reading component values and for lighting the work, but the range of the magnifier was much to close to actually build the K2 under it. These lamps are intended for reading, so they focus quite close to the page. If you need a magnifying lamp for building, I understand that you can order lamps with a longer range magnifier that focus further away from the circuit board. Check the archives as this subject has been discussed in the past. My approach to managing components is to stick all components of the same type and value on a strip on masking tape wrapped over the end of the leads, and then write the value on the tape. As I need a component, I just pull it out of the tape. Good luck. Bob W1SRB -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Robie Elms Sent: Tuesday, August 14, 2007 12:45 AM To: John Huggins; Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [SPAM?] Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2 John, I suggest that you obtain a good lamp with a magnifying glass attached. Mine has a round florescent lamp that fits around the lens. This provides plenty of light and the magnification really improves you productivity. I am not saying that the K2 is too small - just that time has taken a toll on my eyes!! Another item that may help is a vice to hold the circuit boards while you are installing components and soldering. I do not consider this as important as the magnifying lamp. Robie - AJ4F K2 s/n 6165 - Original Message - From: John Huggins [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, August 13, 2007 11:08 PM Subject: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2 OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? John ___ 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 ___ 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 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Tools I found useful: - Magnifying ring light I find an Optivisor works much better for me. A ring light magnifier gives me a headache, besides being bulky and hard on whatever it is clamped to... 73, Lyle KK7P ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
John, Everyone has great ideas. Here are mine. I like the visor as well. I got one for five bucks. Very good to have. I also use ice cube trays (Plastic) for a parts bin. Sometimes things do not fit will, but it does work quite well. You can use muffin tins as well, but I would not put ICs or transistors in the muffin tin. You can get ice cube trays at the Dollar General Storeor other small plastic containers as well. Enjoyit is a fun time Lee - K0WA In our day and age it seems that Common Sense is in short supply. If you don't have any Common Sense - get some Common Sense and use it. If you can't find any Common Sense, ask for help from somebody who has some Common Sense. Is Common Sense divine? ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: On Tue, 14 Aug 2007, Brett gazdzinski wrote: The caps I tried to organize in piles on the desk with the values written in pencil on the desk, there are a LOT of caps and a LOT of different valuesa LOT of piles ergo, a nice big, clean table space for all the piles is ideal. If you are more organized, a fishing tackle box or something similar with lot's of little compartments to label also helps. I found Ice Cube Trays to be the best way to organize the partstook me four of them. You'll definitely need to sort your caps out by numbers. I also made a tilting vise by using those pistol grip expanding jaw clamps used in woodworking, mounting it on a pedestal (the one I found came out of a sporting goods store and is for mounting on the edge of a boat to hold a fishing rod...that in turn was mounted to a piece of board...and I had a perfect tilting vise for about 20 bucks total. At 54, I second the round magnifying light...mine was from Office Depot for about 35 bucks...lots of other places had them for 90+and, I found using that magnifying light/lamp it worked as a solder-smoke deflector so it wasn't drifting directly into my face as I worked. David King ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Congratulations on your decision to build a K2 with your son. I concur with the advice you are getting about having good lighting, ESD protection, vice, etc. If you don't already have them, I think a great way to introduce your son into the kit building process would be to have him build the XG2 signal generator and the DL-1 dummy load before starting on the K2. These are easy and fast kits and the end result will be very helpful as you test and align your new K2. Have fun! 73 ... Craig AC0DS ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
At 08:28 08/14/2007, Don Wilhelm wrote: As another personal taste note, I find that digging into a cup-like or box-like container to extract parts is a pain - I line up leaded parts by value and stick their leads into the edge of corrugated cardboard. A USPS Priority Mail box cut in half makes 2 good trays for holding the hardware parts and lots of cut corrugated edges to stick the parts into. Old time Heathkit builders will recognize this method. For an illustration of what Don's referring to, I direct your attention to: http://www.n0ss.net/index_general.html ... about 2/3 of the way down the page, just below the photo of the Hakko 936 Soldering Station. A setup like this makes it very easy to arrange leaded components for easy sorting and selection. 73, Tom N0SS ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
John When the K2 is finished and it's time for alignment, many of us use a noise generator to feed the receiver, the Spectrogram audio spectrum analyzer program to set the filters up for the best results, and an oscilloscope to display the resulting filter passbands. I believe the free version of Spectrogram is still available on N0SS' web page. There are several noise generator kits around, not very complicated at all. I believe Elecraft also has one. It would be an easy kit for your son to knock out along the way. Good luck and 73 Bob N6WG - Original Message - From: John Huggins [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, August 13, 2007 9:08 PM Subject: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2 OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? John ___ 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 ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Perhaps it deserves saying the obvious: DO NOT USE FOAM CONTAINERS FOR ELECTRONIC PARTS!! (Unless, perhaps, you're working with vacuum tubes G) Expanded foam in any form is a wonderful static generator. It doesn't take enough static to see or feel a spark to destroy parts, only enough to exceed the part's operating voltages (especially insulation breakdown voltage). That is often well below that at which a human is even aware there is a static charge present. I suppose one might argue that keeping the leads of sensitive parts stuck in the conductive foam protects them, but I tend to be conservative. It's bad enough troubleshooting to find a defective part when power is first applied, but static-damaged parts sometimes still work, somewhat, so the rig just doesn't meet normal specs and the operator may be completely unaware of it. And then the part may fail prematurely at some later date (just as you're calling that rare DX you need or about to start a contest session). I, too, like the Optivisor. I like that it's not coupled to my light source and it's very lightweight and portable. I went for the name brand: I've too often found defective lenses in cheap magnifiers. It's a chance one takes buying cheap: sometimes it's fine, sometimes not, and sometimes you don't know until you can compare the expensive product side-by-side with the cheap. (Just like comparing your completed K2 with most of the other HF rigs out there G). Ron AC7AC ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Egg cartons for trays de Joe, aa4nn You can get ice cube trays at the Dollar General Storeor other small plastic containers as well. ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
John, My son is 14. He has gone with me to help setup field day. He currently has the furthest from home contact. I am building my second K2 (K2/100 when done). I bought the DL1 and XG2 from what I learned from the first K2. I supervised my son as he built the mini-modules. He saw the large number of parts in the K2 and got scared. As yet he has not volunteered to help with the radio. Sorting the caps into a container with compartments is necessary. Small solder less than .020 very good idea. Rework eliminators are a good idea especially if you will add options one at a time. They are also good if you need to remove an option for troubleshooting. Removing an option usually disables the radio in some way requiring reinstalling parts to make the radio work. I did not do the eliminators and wish I had. Good luck and happy building Richard Kent WD8AJG K2 5296 and 1/3 of 5996 -Original Message- OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? John ___ 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
RE: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
On Tue, 14 Aug 2007 09:26:19 -0500, Craig Rairdin wrote: If your eyes require it, get a god magnifier. God magnifiers are also good for spotting the devil, who is said to be in the details. Either way a good god magnifier is worth the investment. Note that one of the holiness prayers of the Jewish liturgy starts with Magnified and sanctified is the great name. I guess magnification is a universal requirement. ggg -- 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane Elecraft K2/100 s/n 5402 ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
Thank you all for the comments. A rough summary includes: - Think ESD for the parts (no worries there... I am the ESD promoter at our electronics lab at work) - No parts in non ESD foam - No parts in cardboard, etc. - Small anti-static mat with wrist straps, etc. - Keep active parts in their black ESD foam - Seriously consider the re-work eliminators and other nifty things from http://www.unpcbs.com/ - Consider a good Cap/Inductance meter - Seriously consider using flush cutting snips - Certainly use a thermo controlled soldering iron with good assortment of tips - Use small diameter solder - Get a new #1 Phillips screwdriver - Seriously consider an illuminated magnifier or, perhaps, a mag. visor - On the same topic, have good lighting - Reference the example toroid images available from the K2 community - Use headers where possible - Dental pick and other assorted fiddling tools - Reserve a good amount of table space for the project - Consider pre-wound toroids - When inventorying parts, leave the resistors in their tape - Seriously consider starting with the XG2 and DL-1 dummy load to spin up on soldering skills - Seriously consider making the XG2 because it will be handy during the K2 build Excellent tips. Thank you all. The tip I am acting on first is the purchase and building of the XG2 as I think it is a wonderful plan to start small and work up. One of the main purposes is to ensure the 12 year old acquires some understanding of that stuff in the box is not magic. Anything I can do to notch up the technical aptitude of a future tax payer should hopefully yield benefits later. Thanks again all... onward... John KX4O http://www.cosjwt.com/ ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
I buolt a cute circuit with a 2n7000 from an idea I saw at the Maker Faire.. It is an E field probe: you can light up (or extinguish, depending on your charge polarity) an LED with the proximity of your finger from half a foot. It can be very instructive in seeing where you have static, and how far away the 2N7000 can tell, and (eventually) what will and won't blow it. I put a link to this, and a copy of Wayne N6KR's note on handling the 2N7000, onto Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2N7000 Leigh/WA5ZNU On Tue, 14 Aug 2007 8:57 am, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: Perhaps it deserves saying the obvious: DO NOT USE FOAM CONTAINERS FOR ELECTRONIC PARTS!! (Unless, perhaps, you're working with vacuum tubes G) Expanded foam in any form is a wonderful static generator. It doesn't take enough static to see or feel a spark to destroy parts, only enough to exceed the part's operating voltages (especially insulation breakdown voltage). That is often well below that at which a human is even aware there is a static charge present. I suppose one might argue that keeping the leads of sensitive parts stuck in the conductive foam protects them, but I tend to be conservative. It's bad enough troubleshooting to find a defective part when power is first applied, but static-damaged parts sometimes still work, somewhat, so the rig just doesn't meet normal specs and the operator may be completely unaware of it. And then the part may fail prematurely at some later date (just as you're calling that rare DX you need or about to start a contest session). ___ 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
Re: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2
John, I suggest that you obtain a good lamp with a magnifying glass attached. Mine has a round florescent lamp that fits around the lens. This provides plenty of light and the magnification really improves you productivity. I am not saying that the K2 is too small - just that time has taken a toll on my eyes!! Another item that may help is a vice to hold the circuit boards while you are installing components and soldering. I do not consider this as important as the magnifying lamp. Robie - AJ4F K2 s/n 6165 - Original Message - From: John Huggins [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, August 13, 2007 11:08 PM Subject: [Elecraft] Conception of a K2 OK so I have decided to buy the base K2 kit and build it along with my son; He needs to see a process like this unfold. I have read the various FAQs, tips, etc. I am not new to kit building. We have a good soldering station. If the K2 works out well we will use it on CW for a while and then add enhancements: SSB first then others (perhaps DSP, 160M, 60M-Xvrter, 100Watts).. Are there tools or tips I am missing before I drop the coin? John ___ 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 ___ 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
