You need some kind of very good magnifying glasses. I wear reading glasses when building, so I have a pair that clips onto a pair of glasses. Others like the ones that strap around your head like a welder's mask (though not nearly so big) and flip up to be out of the way when you don't need them.
Don't underestimate the need for these as some of the parts are very small (especially diodes) and the part numbers practically require a microscope. I found they're also handy for inspecting solder joints. I like to use a Panavise board holder to hold the board. It pivots so I can mount parts from the front then flip the board down to solder on the back side. You have to skip the steps where you put the 3-D mounting brackets on the boards, because they're too close to the edge and make it so the Panavise can't grip the board (don't worry, you'll figure it out while you're building -- it's pretty obvious). I tried a Sears "hobby vise" for the K1 and it was OK but didn't hold the board as well as the Panavise. I ordered tools from Wassco (www.wassco.com) and Mouser (www.mouser.com). Craig NZ0R K1 #1966 K2/100 #4941 -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Darwin, Keith Sent: Thursday, March 02, 2006 9:20 AM To: Elecraft Discussion List Subject: [Elecraft] Gearing up to build - where to get tools? Hey folks, I have some tools but will need more for the K2. I have a Weller WTCPT (or whatever it is) soldering station with two tips. Both have a "7" on the bottom (700 degree?). One is the original and one is a very thin pointy tip. I have a static mat, a clear bench and a workable light. I'm thinking I need the following and wonder if there is a preferred place to get them at a fair price? - Solder - Small side cutters - Small needle nose pliers - Other tips for the weller - Helping hands parts holder - Solder braid (for desoldering) I have access to a vacuum desolder station so if things get bad I can go that route. Where should I get these things? What else do I need? - Keith KD1E - _______________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________ 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
