[Elecraft] K1 and K2 Sprint Teams

[Tree N6TR]

As I mentioned before - the CW Sprint is coming up on the 9th of 
February (Saturday after next).  It runs from 00Z - 04Z (Sunday 
UTC date).  The bands are 20, 40 and 80 meters, but you can 
operate just one or two if you want.

It would really be great to see an all elecraft team or two.  I
was thinking of a K1 and K2 team - but so far, I haven't heard
from any of you K1ers.  So - unless I hear from a bunch of you 
soon, I will just come up with Team Elecraft.

You don't have to be QRP - so for those of you who have constructed
afterburners - feel free to use them if you want.  The point here is
to make a statement that Elecraft radios can be used in the sprint.

For those of you who are not familar with the sprint format - it
rewards you for a "search and pounce" QSO (where you answer someone
else's CQ).  After you complete the QSO - YOU OWN THE FREQUENCY.
Many times, there will be someone there waiting to call you as 
soon as the first QSO is complete.

I would imagine that with average antennas - it would be pretty easy 
to work 100 QSOs in the four hours.  QRP stations have made 200 QSOs
in this event.

I have put together a survival web page that explains the fine 
points of the contest.  It even has sound files with actual off 
the air QSOs.

http://n6tr.jzap.com/sprint.html

For those who are faint at heart - I would suggest operating the 
last three hours of the contest.  Starting on 20 meters for the
"second" hour (01Z), then QSYing down to 40 meters around 0200
or 0230.  Then, spending the last 30 miutes or so on 80 meters.
This will keep you out of the thick of things and increase the
"fun" rate.  The first hour is not for those who are shy with
high speed CW - or those of you running 5 watts to an indoor
whip.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.  Please
consider being a part of the Elecraft team.  Currently, I have
N0SS and KH6NO/W7 signed up.  There must be eight more of you guys
who are willing to give it a try!!  We aren't trying to win anything,
but just get noticed.

K2 #2411 worked VP8GEO on 20 meter CW the other night.  Waiting for
my KIO2 to arrive so I can start messing with TR Log for the K2.

For those afraid to build their K2 - try the following:

1. Put in the first resistor - solder both ends.  Notice how easy
that was.

2. Put in the next one.  

3. Just keep going one step at a time.

You can't build the kit all at once - and no single step is going to 
be impossible.  Take it slow and easy and make sure you have the right
tools.

73 Tree N6TR  K2 #2411
tree@kkn.net

PS: Those blue rubber bands make great cat toys too.