[Elecraft] K2 power jack

Tue Feb 25 18:40:01 2003

Ah, Ha. I must have the non-solder variety.  I found the little hole but
could not figure how to secure the wire.  The wrapping around the plug
and squeezing process was the missing link.  And yes, generally I prefer
soldered connections but for now, the non-solder variety is what I have
to deal with.  Many thanks for the information.

Bruce - W8FU

-----Original Message-----
From: Ron D'Eau Claire [mailto:[email protected]] 
Sent: Sunday, February 23, 2003 2:02 PM
To: 'Bruce D. McLaughlin'; [email protected]
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] K2 power jack

Like most plugs, there are different types. Some have a screw-on ferrule
that that fits over the metal "plug" end and traps the end of the wire.
First, you unscrew the plastic 'handle" from the metal plug. Then you
feed the wire through the handle into in the back side and it will come
out a little hole at the "base" of the plug section. You wrap it around
the base of the plug and replace the ferrule over the plug and it grips
the wire securely.

I prefer solder. All of the plugs I have seen have a hole in the back
that is exposed by unscrewing the plastic "handle" part. I place the
wire in the hole use my big (275 watt) Weller soldering gun. It quickly
heats the plug enough to melt solder into the hole and secure the wire.
Be sure to put the wire through the "handle" first! 

Holding them for soldering can be fun, especially if you don't want to
bend the spring leaves on the plug. I use a small bench vise with a
couple of strips of wood to avoid crushing the plug. The wood also
prevents the vice from absorbing all the heat! 

Ron AC7AC
K2 # 1289

-----Original Message-----
From:  Bruce D. McLaughlin

...how does one connect banana plugs? I have never used them and don't
have a very good idea as to how to secure wires to them. ...Bruce - W8FU