[Elecraft] DVM's Solder and Static

[Phil Wheeler]

LyamF@aol.com wrote:

>
>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.
>

All you really NEED is a simple meter with Voltage and Resistance.  The 
one I use most cost $25 at Radio  Shack.  If you go up to $50 or so, you 
might want to look for one that measures capacitance.  many are 
autoranging these days, so ranges are not an issue.

>
>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.
>

Yes.  The current wisdom is that the 2% solder is harder to remove if 
you need to repair or replace parts, or so I recall.  There should be 
some solder recommendations at the Builder's Resources link at the 
Elecraft website.

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

Not sure I understand the latter.  A wrist strap, used when handling 
static sensitive parts (the manual identifies these) is all you really 
need.  Many golks get along wihtout even the strap -- but I do recommend 
using one.

73, Phjil