[Elecraft] A few questions before ordering the K2 kit...

[Alan D. Wilcox]

Thomas,

You might want to purchase the pre-wound toroids from Mike Morohovich toroidguy at earthlink.net. His flyer is included in the K2 package, but if you order early, you'll have them when your K2 arrives. 

Aside from being tedious to wind, many builders come to grief because they've left enamel on the leads and didn't get a good solder connection. Such a problem can be difficult to spot.

If you're just starting out, a K2/10 for CW will provide you a fun building experience, and certainly many wonderful hours chatting with other hams.

Keep it simple and enjoy the trip!

73, Alan
 
Alan D. Wilcox, W3DVX (K2-5373, K3-40)
570-321-1516
http://WilcoxEngineering.com
Williamsport, PA 17701

jez wrote:
> Hi,
> being a SWL for more or less about 20 years I just completed my HAM license
> in germany. So far it's just the beginners license which limits the
> frequency bands I'm allowed to use, but as I don't have a TRX yet I thought
> building a K2 will a) give me quite a good transceiver I don't have to
> replace after six months and b) provide me with some valuable experience on
> my way to go for the full license. 
>
> So far I have nothing but my license though. No transceiver, no antenna, no
> SWR meter, no power supply, no dummy load, no... So please forgive me in
> case I ask something obvious, I'm really a bit confused with all those
> things which are new to me!
>
> So here my questions:
>
> # ok, after reading several stuff on elecraft.com this more or less is a
> clear one, but to make sure I'd lust like to repeat it - apart from maybe a
> multimeter, there is no additional measurement equipment needed to build up
> and adjust the K2 (e.g. no noise generator, spectrum analyzer needed). Am I
> correct?
>
> # Power connector...how do I connect the K2 to the 230V we are using in
> germany? I suppose I need an external power supply 10..15V, correct? But
> which connector? Reading the forums I've seen those 2.1mm and 2.5mm diameter
> connectors ( http://www.cliffuk.co.uk/products/dcconnectors/dcpp1.jpg )
> mentioned, in the shop Elecraft is selling a cable with "APP connector". So
> what would I need?
>
> # The KAT100 antenna tuner includes a SWR meter but requires a KPA100 or
> KIO2 installed. As I'm not yet sure if I go for the 100 watt option, does
> the KAT2 (20 watt internal ATU) also include a SWR meter?
>
>
> Well, that's all for now, thanks in advance for any helpful reply!
>
> thomas 
>