[Elecraft] Can't wait!

Tue Jan 29 18:05:00 2002

John,
Welcome to the community of proud K2 owners!

Soldering Stations?
I purchased a Edsyn 951SX temperature controlled soldering station from 
www.radioshack.com for about $75.  This is a dial controlled soldering 
station (no need to change tips to change temperatures which you do on the 
popular Weller WTCPT).  ESD safe.  Fast heating.  Stock tip seems just 
right for a K2/K1.  I soldered at 650 - 700 degF and dialed up the heat to 
800 degF for toroid lead stripping.  Worked well.  I'm happy with the 
purchase.

Solder?
Plain ole' tried and proven rosin core electronic solder.  Well actually I 
used 63/37 Kester, at (I think) .020" dia.  Don't mess with the "no clean" 
stuff or the solder with a silver content.  Repairs are more difficult 
with these more exotic types and they're NOT recommended by Elecraft.

Space?
I built my K2 in an area about 36" x 24" (well actually smaller).  You'll 
be working on one circuit board at a time, so all you really need is 
something like 2 sq. ft of working area, plus room for sorted (and 
inventoried) components.  More space will feel less cramped.

Other?
A good pair of flush cutting wire cutters is a good investment.  At a 
nearby Home Depot, I found a bundled package of needle nose pliers and 
flush cutters that works well.  Specifically:  Xcelite #170M flush cutters 
and #378M needle nose pliers were bundled in a package for about $10 (if I 
can recall correctly).

You might consider downloading the manual from the Elecraft web page and 
having a look.

Great winter project!

73,
Steve
aa8af

[email protected]
Sent by: [email protected]
01/29/2002 05:35 PM

        To:     [email protected]
        cc: 
        Subject:        [Elecraft] Can't wait!

I just ordered the K2 and KSB2.  I can't wait to start
construction.  While awaiting arrival of the kit, I would appreciate a few
suggestions.

(1) Soldering station. (Which station and where can I find one?)
(2) Solder to use (and where can I find it?)
(3) Aproximate space for the building environment.  Will an 8ft folding
table be sufficient to lay out the kit and perform the build?

If I am forgetting anything here, please let me know.

73 de kc4kgu (John)