[Elecraft] New (second-hand) K2 owner, what now?

[Daniel Solano Gómez]

Hello, all,

My name is Daniel, AG5UT, and I recently purchased a second-hand K2 (#5240) as my first HF rig.  I believe it’s in good working condition—I haved been able to successfully confirm it transmits, but have yet to have a QSO.  It has the following options installed:

* KSB2 (1.08b)
* KAT2 (1.07)
* KIO2 (1.09)
* K160M

I have purchased the KBT2, since I like the idea of taking this car camping and being able to operate without having to be plugged in.

So, I have a few questions:

1. It seems like since it’s a later serial number, so I shouldn’t need to worry about doing any upgrades of the main system.  Is this right?

2. I think I also have the latest firmware versions, is this correct?

3. Is there any type of calibration I should do to make sure everything is fine?  I don’t really have much in the way of test equipment, such as frequency counters, signal generators, or oscilliscopes.  Should I be worrying about this?

4. Should I consider some of the options I don’t have, i.e. the KNB2 or KAF2?

5. I see references to a KDSP2, but that no longer seems to be available, is that right?

6. Any thoughts if getting the KPA100 would be worth it for base station use?  Can it be used externally?  Is it fine to use it with the internal battery installed?  Would it be better to just buy a KXPA-100 in case I ever decide to upgrade to a KX3?

7. I didn’t get the cable for KIO2.  I mistakenly purchased the W1SERKT thinking it was what I needed.  Would the KUSB the right thing to get?

8. Are there any questions I haven’t asked, but should?

Thank you for your patience, and I appreciate your help with my newbie questions.  I am super-excited to finally get on the air with HF.

73,

Daniel, AG5UT