[Elecraft] K2 Connector woes

[Fred Jensen]

[I modified the subject slightly adding "K2"]

Personally, I would put a small tag inside to remind me that they're 
backwards, and leave it be.  You can always get a new P3 from Elecraft 
Parts.

Related subject:  If you have the KAT2, it **is** possible to plug the 
KAT2 RF input cable into the 12V connector.  This will ground the 12V 
supply, and if you're foolishly using a non current-limited supply as I 
was [unfused LiFePO4 pack, good for about 40-50 amps into a short], the 
primary 12V trace will simulate a fuse in about 2ms.  My battery is now 
fused at about 125% of the K2's maximum load, and I painted the RF plug 
and socket body black.

73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the 2013 Cal QSO Party 5-6 Oct 2013
- www.cqp.org

On 4/29/2013 8:39 PM, Tyler Barnett wrote:
> The previous owner of my K2 who built it, put the main-board P3 and P6 connectors in backwards.
> That is, the index tab is facing the rear of the K2, rather than the front.
> Reason this came up:  I was finishing up the internal KAT2 tuner, and realized through an ohmmeter check the connector was likely backwards.
> A check of the K2 board layout in the manual confirmed both WERE backward.
>
> I don't know if I'll ever put the internal battery into the K2, but I'm thinking of pulling it along with P6.
> The KAT2 kit supplied a P6 for this purpose, but that leaves me short the P3 connector.
> I'm concerned that despite my best removal efforts, that I'll ruin both getting them out.
> Yes, I have a new solder-sucker, and an Aoyue desoldering station, but I don't know how hardy this connector is.
> Should I order P3 now from Elecraft, or see how it goes?