[Elecraft] Gearing up to build - where to get tools?

[Craig Rairdin]

You need some kind of very good magnifying glasses. I wear reading glasses
when building, so I have a pair that clips onto a pair of glasses. Others
like the ones that strap around your head like a welder's mask (though not
nearly so big) and flip up to be out of the way when you don't need them.

Don't underestimate the need for these as some of the parts are very small
(especially diodes) and the part numbers practically require a microscope. I
found they're also handy for inspecting solder joints.

I like to use a Panavise board holder to hold the board. It pivots so I can
mount parts from the front then flip the board down to solder on the back
side. You have to skip the steps where you put the 3-D mounting brackets on
the boards, because they're too close to the edge and make it so the
Panavise can't grip the board (don't worry, you'll figure it out while
you're building -- it's pretty obvious). I tried a Sears "hobby vise" for
the K1 and it was OK but didn't hold the board as well as the Panavise.

I ordered tools from Wassco (www.wassco.com) and Mouser (www.mouser.com).

Craig
NZ0R
K1 #1966
K2/100 #4941

-----Original Message-----
From: elecraft-bounces+craigr=laridian.com at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-bounces+craigr=laridian.com at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of
Darwin, Keith
Sent: Thursday, March 02, 2006 9:20 AM
To: Elecraft Discussion List
Subject: [Elecraft] Gearing up to build - where to get tools?


Hey folks,
 
I have some tools but will need more for the K2.  I have a Weller WTCPT
(or whatever it is) soldering station with two tips.  Both have a "7" on
the bottom (700 degree?).  One is the original and one is a very thin
pointy tip.
 
I have a static mat, a clear bench and a workable light.
 
I'm thinking I need the following and wonder if there is a preferred
place to get them at a fair price?
  - Solder
  - Small side cutters
  - Small needle nose pliers
  - Other tips for the weller
  - Helping hands parts holder
  - Solder braid (for desoldering)
 
I have access to a vacuum desolder station so if things get bad I can go
that route.
 
Where should I get these things?  What else do I need?
 
- Keith KD1E -
_______________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Post to: Elecraft at mailman.qth.net
You must be a subscriber to post to the list.
Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.):
 http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft    

Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm
Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com