[Elecraft] KX1 construction questions

[Don Wilhelm]

Paul

Yes, for the KX1 get the flush cutters - I have found the Lufkin or Xcelite
170M in Home Depot for a good price - they are often packaged with a nice
set of needle-nose pliers and are relatively inexpensive.

When handling transistors (particularly MOSFETS) and ICs, you should be
using some type of ESD protection - and since the KX1 has the DDS SMD IC
already soldered to the board, you must take ESD precautions throughout the
build.  If you do not use a wrist strap, work on an anti-static mat.

Be careful with a non-temp controlled iron - they have a tendency to
overheat, but if you are experienced and comfortable using the RS iron, you
can get the job done - just be careful and be aware of the possibility of
excess heat.

73,
Don W3FPR

> -----Original Message-----

>
> Hello everybody,
>
> My KX1 has just arrived and I am hoping to have construction
> completed in time
> for good-weather field operations.  Before I start building I
> would appreciate
> any and all opinions on the following questions:
>
> 1.  Elecraft recommends an ESD-safe temperature controlled
> soldering station.  I
> have a simple Radio Shack 25-watt soldering iron that I have
> successfully used
> for all of my previous kits, including a TenTec Tkit 1320,
> Wilderness Radio
> SST40, and an Elecraft K1.  Have any of you built the KX1 with a
> similar iron or
> is the upgrade really needed?
>
> 2.  Elecraft also recommends flush-cutting diagonal cutters.  I
> currently have a
> pair of miniature cutters.  They are not flush-cutting, but they
> can probably
> get within 1/16”.  Are the spacing tolerances that crucial?
>
> 3.  I have never used a conductive wrist strap on my other
> projects and have
> done fine.  Do I really need to wear one for the KX1?
>
> 4.  If any of the above tools are really needed, do you have
> suggestions on
> economical sources for purchasing them?
>
> Thanks in advance for your input.
>
> 73
> Paul – N8XMS
>
>