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

[jez]

Peter,

first thanks for your reply, I think it clears up some of the question marks
in my head!

In a project like the K2 there's always a big chance of me mixing something
up, but I have a bit of soldering experience and also own a proper soldering
station, so that assembling in the end should not become a problem (I
hope!). Thanks for the hints on how to calibrate the K2!

After reading all the helpful replies I think I'm (for the moment) going for
a K2 without the 100W option, but will prepare to add it (and the filter
add-ons) at a later moment.

The K3 looks impressive, and when I compare the prices there's really not
much of a difference when you add all options to the K2 which are included
in the K3 right away. Though I think building a K2 will give me some more
insight into how transmitters and receivers work - will think about it once
again, but for the moment this makes a big advantage for the K2.

Thomas



Peter Wollan-2 wrote:
> 
> To calibrate, you need to receive a known frequency -- in the US, the
> broadcast time station WWV is sufficient.  And to set the filters, it
> is very helpful to have a computer running one of the audio frequency
> spectrum displays.  (I use the display in the CocoaModem program for
> Macs).  To connect to the computer, all you need is an audio cable
> with stereo plugs on each end, going from headphone jack on the K2 to
> audio input on the computer.
> 
> ...
> 
> It works well to start with a stripped-down K2 and add modules over
> several years.  In fact, you assemble in stages, and get each stage
> working before moving on the the next.  However, some modules require
> connectors in places that are easy to put in on original assembly but
> significant effort later.  If you think you might maybe someday want a
> particular add-on, read the manual to find out what connectors it
> needs and consider buying and installing the connectors during your
> initial assembly.  Ask here on the list about any specifics.
> 
> And finally:  consider the K3.  The K2 was designed as the ideal Field
> Day radio, and I think it is.  However, the 100-watt version is less
> elegant than the 10-watt (my opinion only, of course), and the K3 has
> several advantages:  it's more modern technology, it's more capable,
> and it isn't much more expensive for comparable features.  The CW-only
> K2 is an incredible value, but if you add SSB, KAT2, KIO2, and 6
> meters the K3 is cheaper (? is that true?  pretty close, anyway.)
> 
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