[Elecraft] KPA500 Build

[Don Wilhelm]

  Tony,

Your cookie sheet is an OK idea, but it gives me cause to insert one of 
my safety "hot spots".
When working on a fully conductive surface, keep all power sources at a 
safe distance (at least 1 foot greater than your reach).  That goes for 
even 9 volt batteries and 13.8 power sources, and of course, the AC 
receptacles.

The AC voltage problem is easily recognized - high voltage can kill you, 
but not as readily recognized is that low voltage can maim you - suppose 
your watch or wedding ring comes in contact with a battery terminal.  
Not only will flying molten metal happen, but your finger or wrist can 
be very badly burned by the heat produced.

Work as you see fit, but above all - BE SAFE - low voltage sources can 
maim or even kill just as well as high voltage.

There are no fully conducting surfaces in my work area - static mat, 
yes, but metal sheets, NO!

73,
Don W3FPR

On 7/8/2011 5:07 PM, Tony Estep wrote:
> Not only is a muffin tin an excellent parts bin, but a large cookie sheet is
> great for building SMT gadgets. It's conductive, so no static buildup, and
> the raised edges keep little parts from ending up on the floor. I got a
> muffin tin and cookie sheet at Walmart, $3.50 each. If the shiny surface of
> the cookie sheet is too reflective, put a piece of black conductive foam on
> it.
>
> Tony KT0NY
>