[Elecraft] New built ZM-2 antenna tuning unit

[Bill Tippett]

VR2XMC wrote:

 >With the disposal of my FT817 and HL50B (I am now using K2), this =
antenna tuning unit is now surplus to my requirement.  It was =
beautifully built and I have been an experience kit builder.  For =
details of this atu, please visit http://emtech.steadynet.com/zm2.shtml

         I corrected your link above.  I just built one of these and must say
I am very pleased with it!  Since I currently plan to keep my K2 QRP, but
may want to upgrade it to 100W eventually, I could not justify a KAT2 for
$159 (which might be redundant if I eventually go QRO).  I was looking
at the MFJ-902 Tiny Travel Tuner, but by the time I added a balun and
SWR/wattmeter, it became the MFJ-904H for $130.  I really don't need a tuner
in my shack but wanted both balanced capability and an internal tuning
indicator so I would not need a separate SWR meter for portable/field use.

         The ZM-2 was the perfect solution for my needs.  15W capability for
80-10, balanced line capability and an internal tuning indicator (LED) all
for $65 (kit or $90 assembled).  It does require manual tuning but that's
a breeze using both knobs simultaneously while nulling the LED indicator.
Now all I need for Field Day is a piece of 450 ohm ladder-line to go with
my slingshot and 80m dipole.

         Related question for experienced K2 Field Day folks.  What type of
battery capacity is needed for 27 hours of 5W CW-only operation?

                                                 73,  Bill  W4ZV (K2 #4119)