[Elecraft] DVM's Solder and Static

[Lyle Johnson]

Hello!

> I've used VTVM's and analog VOM's but never a DVM.  How expensive
> should I go?
> What feature, like ranges, should I look for. If anyone should be so bold
> could you suggest a some brands and model numbers.

If you are just going to use it for general work, and money is tight, go
with anything you can find!  Seriously, I have purchased DVMs for under $10
and they are fine for this purpose (verifying resistor values, mostly.  And
checking a few voltages here and there if you wish).

After that, and it depends on your needs/desires/budget.  More money gives
you brand names, auto-ranging, more ranges, increased accuracy, more
resolution, additional features, etc.

> Is there any inherent advantage in using multicore solder?  That was very
> popular years ago.  If there is no advantage, should I resist the impulse
> to use 2% silver solder.

I've used multicore and single core.  No difference IMHO.

I've built a K2 with 2% silver, and one with no silver content.  Both were
easy to use and resulted in good connections.

Just don't use organic core solder unless you want to run your board under
warm running water every 60 minutes (or less, never more) and use a
water-lubricated air compressor to thoroughly blow dry it after the thorough
rinse/scrub.

Folks have used no-clean fluxes and rosin-core fluxes with success.

> FINALLY, I'm going to build it on a flat (wood) surface.  Would
> an antistatic
> mat work as well as a wrist strap?

The mat is of no value without the strap, and vice-versa.

If you are working in a carpeted area, spray a dilute solution of fabric
softener on the carpet before you sit down to work, and then don't wiggle in
your chair!  If you create no static to begin with...

Enjoy!

Lyle KK7P