[Elecraft] K3/100 kit

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

I have one magnetized and one not. I remember to wipe off the metal bits
before using the magnetized one ;-) I do find it makes installing some of
the screws easier, such as the one holding the corner of the KANT3 or KAT3
board, the screws securing the stiffener to the KPA3 shield or the screws
securing the KPA3 module. Not only does it hold the screw, it holds the lock
washer *on* the screw while it's being installed. 

I also have a strong magnet on a pen-sized barrel that is wonderful for
retrieving a washer or nut that falls inside the rig. It even helps find one
by simply waving it around until the missing part jumps out from behind
something. But it's also a nuisance if I lay it near the hardware. Instantly
I have an ungainly glob of nuts, washers and screws stuck on the end of the
thing. Like a sharp knife, success is all in how it's used.

After working around magnetic disk and tape recording equipment for a number
of years, it took me a while to "relax" having a magnetized tool on the
bench. They were dangerous and destructive around any magnetic media gear! I
still keep the magnetized stuff separate. 

Ron AC7AC

-----Original Message-----
From: elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm
Sent: Saturday, September 06, 2008 8:32 AM
To: Elecraft List
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 kit


Jim,

That is one point where we differ.  I do not want a magnetic tip on my 
workbench - anywhere.  It attracts things like cutoff leads and is just 
a nuisance to me.

I do like the magnetic driver insert tips (and a power driver) for my 
woodworking activities, but not for electronic assembly.

A *good* phillips screwdriver will hold a screw sufficiently with a 
finger held lightly against the screw head.  For those 'long reach' 
places, I move the assembly so the screwdriver remains horizontal and 
the screw does not fall off.

Different strokes for different folks.

73,
Don W3FPR

Jim Brown wrote:
> On Sat, 06 Sep 2008 10:22:20 -0400, Don Wilhelm wrote:
>
>   
>> Your DMM and a *good* phillips screwdriver
>>     
>
> You really want one with a magnetic tip
>