I'm happy to say that my newly finished serial number 4511 is working fantastic. The CW only version. Now onto the SSB option. The parts and packing were just excellent. I hit just two problems that I thought I should share as this reflector was a really superb searchable help to me. Thanks to everyone for that.
Problem 1) I decided to do the optional rx alignment PRIOR to doing the transmit. My work bench is one end of the room with a good regulated power supply but for quickness I thought I'd use a wall wart (12V) to test the rx on an antenna the other end of the room. All bands worked great EXCEPT 80m. That band was terribly distorted. To cut a long story short the wall wart was providing a reading on 15.1 on the K2. I changed the supply and all was okay! Problem 2) At the last testing stage, all bands were great EXCEPT 20/30 metres. I rechecked solder joints, toroids, you name it and then got serious with a scope. To my surprise, C20 (RF board, 20/30 Pass Band) was the culprit. A new 47pF cap was reading .18pF on my Almost All Digital LCR meter. On replacing with my own stock 20/30 bands came alive. All bands now excellent. I suppose I could have damaged the cap with heat or pulling but I think it may also have been a component fault. No blame attached to anyone but hope this helps others. Happy building. What a great radio! 73, Malcolm, K1VZ _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [email protected] You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
