[Elecraft] Upgrades

[Mike Harris]

G'day,

Received a box of upgrades Saturday, software for KAT100, MCU, IOC, KPA100
+ shield and SWR mod and finally the keying mod kit.

All installed without any significant problems apart from accidentally
installing the KAT100 software chip in backwards (first time ever the
dreaded info 080).  It seems to have survived OK.

Observations:

KPA100 mods:
1.    It would be wise to order replacement thermal pads for the KPA100
output transistors, just in case.  I would have changed them if I had
them.  Maybe for safety they should be included in the mod kit
2.    I'm surprised that after changing the high voltage bias supply
crystal the 90-150V bias isn't checked just to make sure that the supply
is still working.  Anyone could receive a duff crystal after all.
3.    As usual, the safest way of removing any components is to simply cut
them off and then remove the lead remains.  Don't try and salvage
anything.

KPA100 Shield Upgrade:
1.    Installing the speaker shield is fun.  "Install the shield over the
speaker magnet, keeping it approximately centered".  Almost impossible.
The speaker magnet is so strong you just can't control this and there
isn't any sensible visual reference anyway.  I use the KPA100 externally,
hence I don't use the speaker so I've no idea if it sounds any different
before or after.  One note.  To keep the redundant af lead under control
I've coiled it and cable tied it to the adjacent shield stand off.  That
way it's always available if I replace the QRP lid with the KPA100.
2.    It is much easier to install the solder lug on the RF output socket
before fitting the shield.
3.    Watch out for the possibility of the input coax being trapped in the
adjacent spring clip when reinstalling the KPA100 into the K2 or EC2
chassis.  One more good reason to always remove the right hand cover
(looking from the front) during reinstallation.

Regards,

Mike VP8NO
#1400