[Elecraft] K2/SSB Construction

[Geoffrey Mackenzie-Kennedy]

Fully agree with Don about those 'holder thingys'. For large PCBs I use a
method similar to Don's, but attach hexagonal spacers through the PCB holes
that will be used for mounting the PCB. At each PCB mounting hole I thread
through the male portion of a spacer from one side of the PCB, and pick it
up with the female end of a spacer on the other side. The length of each
spacer, usually made from a few spacers threaded together, is a bit longer,
say one inch or a little less, than the hight of the tallest component to be
mounted on that side of the PCB. So you end up with something that looks
like an oil derrick, and the "free" ends of the spacers become feet for when
the top of the PCB is up or down. You can also "peek" under the PCB. With a
large board it is a good idea to have a spacer thing near the middle to add
support. The board is very well supported and easily moved around, or
flipped, but a price is that when you want to install the PCB for tests, all
the spacers have to be taken off. Caution, don't over tighten the spacers at
the PCB, finger tight is fine.

For small boards I either do as Don does or use a single spacer thing in
turn clamped by a vice. I prefer Don's method for HF but for UHF prefer the
clamp.

BTW I use metal spacers because Murphy is sure to make me burn plastic with
the iron. Useful items for the Junk Box.

Good luck es 73,

Geoff.     GM4ESD


On February 28, 2005 Don W3FPR wrote:


> As far as a vise goes, your Panavise will likely suffice.  I really don't
> like those 'holder thingys' for most boards because it makes flipping the
> board over for soldering, etc. more cumbersome - I simply work with the
> board loose on the workbench top which allows me to position the board
> quickly whichever way I need at the moment - but each to his own, that is
> just the way I do it.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> >
> > I just ordered a K2 and SSB adaptor so while I'm anxiously waiting
> > delivery I'm trying to get the shack and bench ready for construction.
> >  I've downloaded and briefly read the manuals and I've come up with
> > two questions (the first of many I'm sure).
> > 1. Are there any mods (part additions or deletions) that need to be
> > done to the base K2 if the SSB adaptor is going to be added?  Is there
> > anything I should watch out for to prepare the K2 for the SSB board?
> >
> > 2. Are there any recommendations for a vise to hold the PC boards
> > during construction.  I've got access to a Panavise with about 6"
> > capacity jaws; is this big enough?
> >
> > Any thoughts will be appreciated.  Thanks for the help.
> >
> > Craig Miller
> > K3OOL
> > K2 S/N: ????