[Elecraft] questions

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

Rich, WB4VFN asked:

I'm thinking about getting the K2 with the 100 watt amp.  This forum is very
helpful and maybe I can get some questions answered. What current does the
K2 need at 100 watts? Did I see one is supposed to use 2% silver solder or
is 60/40 ok?

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A supply rated for 20 amps intermittent commercial service (ICS), as
recommended by Elecraft, will handle the K2/100 just fine. The actual peak
current at 100 watts will vary from about 15 to 18 amps depending upon the
band since there are small changes in efficiency. A popular example of a
linear supply is the Astron 20A or 20M (M has volt and ammeters). Of course
a higher current rating is fine too, and some operators prefer larger
supplies so they can run several rigs from one source. Others prefer the
redundancy of more than one supply if their total needs grow beyond the
capacity of the 20 Amp supply. 

60/40 solder is fine. You're starting to see discussion of changes in the
solder recommendations as the world moves toward a ban on lead wherever
possible, but the old stuff is just fine. Silver-bearing solder is fine too,
but it is a bit harder to remove if that's ever needed. 

Just be sure that whatever you use is clearly marked ROSIN core. 

Ron AC7AC