[Elecraft] K1 Purchase

[frastephen@comcast.net]

Hi Paul!

>From: "Paul Cavnar" <nn7b@powernet.net>
>
> 1.  I am considering asking for 40m and 30m as my band choices.  What
would
>      you recommend?

Considering we are heading for the downside of the solar cycle, I think
these are good choices, although you might find a bit more activity with 40m
and 20m


>
> 2.  What recommendations prior to actually assembling the kit would any of
>     you suggest?

INVENTORY ALL THE PARTS!  You'll save the small potential of frustrations
should something be amiss and you will learn about your kit and you'll save
time and errors when you do begin the actual construction.

The manual is available on the website -- download it and become familiar
with it.

Inventory the parts!

A good (not expensive) soldering station would (this is probably a
necessity, rather than a luxury item) be a great acquisition (see the web
site for some recomendations -- I use the Solomon from Circuit Specialists
#34  -- works great!)

Make sure you have some good, quality tools -- A very nice set of Xcelite
needlenose pliers and diagonal cutters are available from Home Depot for $10

If your eyesight is not what it was try to get your hands on a lighted
magnifier (I got one from Staples for $19)

Inventory the parts!

Scrounge some muffin pans for sorting parts!

Inventory the parts!!

Make sure you put anything from the Errata Sheet INTO the manual!  Don't
trust you will remember to go back to the Errata sheet as you work.

I also picked up an anti-static mat and wrist strap from Radio Shack -- not
sure if it helped but it sure did not hurt when handling parts subject to
ESD damage.

>Precautions

These are probably in the manual, but maybe some things to stress:

*** Make sure you totally understand each step before you do it!  If you
have any questions about ANYTHING either poll the reflector or call Elecraft
BEFORE you act.  There are no dumb questions! ***

Double-check every step BEFORE you take soldering iron to components!  Once
they are soldered in it is not easy to undo mistakes!

Take your time -- savor the experience!

Inventory all the parts before you begin!!!!


Good Luck, Paul, and welcome to the exciting world of Elecraft building and
operating!
I hope you have as much fun as I have had so far!


Peace & 73
Stephen
W3SMK
K2 #2644