[Elecraft] K2 Crystals X7 through X11

[Don Wilhelm]

Bill,
Grounding the crystals at the top is actually less prone to overheating the
crystals than soldering at the bottom.  Soldering the grounds at the bottom
provides a lower impedance ground which results in a better crystal filter
response.

Bottom line - you likely did not damage the crystals by soldering at the
tops - go ahead and solder the ground leads to the bottom.  Of course as
always, use a soldering iron tip of sufficient mass so you can accomplish a
good solder joint in a few seconds (3 to 5).  A short shot of adequate heat
is less likely to damage the crystals than a long heat soaking with a small
tip at a lower temperature.

73,
Don W3FPR

----- Original Message ----- 

How do I tell if I've cooked the crystals X7 to X11?

I stuck the crystals in and soldered the ground wire to the tops. It was
only after doing this that I read that I shouldn't have. Also that I should
be careful not to overheat the crystals.

I've since de-soldered the leads.