[Elecraft] K1-4 - Can't find S-meter zero point

[Vincenzo Stefanazzi]

Dear Don,

thank a lot for your help! The problem now is solved!
As you suggested I checked RF signal on U1, U2, D2, Q2 and Q1, but for 
the last component I found it was missing!
I checked it on assembly step on page 28 but I didn't install it at all.
So I have installed the 2N7000 FET and now S-meter is working very well 
(using factory defaults).

Building K1 is an exciting training experience.
Thank you again.

73', Enzo
IW7DMH


Il 01/04/12 15.58, Don Wilhelm ha scritto:
> Enzo,
>
> You most likely have a soldering problem or an incorrectly placed 
> component.  Component failures are rare unless they were damaged from 
> static when handling.
> Take a look at the RF Board Schematic sheet 1.  To the right of and 
> below the "AGC" label on the left side you will see the components 
> associated with the AGC.  You can check the no signal voltages shown 
> there as an assist in finding the failure.  Make certain D2 is 
> oriented correctly, and that Q1 and Q2 are inserted in the correct holes.
> It is also possible that Q1 was damaged by static when you inserted it 
> - the 2N7000 FETs are static sensitive.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 4/1/2012 5:05 AM, iw7dmh wrote:
>> Good morning,
>>
>> I'm building a new K1-4 (sn. 3091) and I have completed the RF-Board 
>> part I.
>> My building experience il reported in my association forum
>> http://www.arilecce.it/index.php?option=com_kunena&func=view&catid=18&id=399&limit=6&limitstart=18&Itemid=94 
>>
>> http://www.arilecce.it/index.php?option=com_kunena&func=view&catid=18&id=399&limit=6&limitstart=18&Itemid=94 
>>
>>
>> It seems everything is working well as I have successfully completed
>> receiver alignment procedure.
>> Now I'm going to find S-meter zero point following the steps 
>> described on
>> page 53 of manual.
>> After disconnecting the antenna, the S-meter still indicate a full scale
>> signal (all bars are on). This happen for any value of Lxx and I'm 
>> wondering
>> if something in my test is wrong or this problem hides a mistake in my
>> building procedure.
>> I also found a current consumption (on receiving) of about 35 mA that 
>> is a
>> bit lower than the expected 55mA. Could it be another problem?
>> I hope you can help me.
>>
>> Best regards.
>>
>> 73', IW7DMH
>> Enzo
>>
>>
>