We've had a few requests for a "full" K3 kit -- one where the builder
installs all of the parts, including the SMDs (surface mount devices).
Unfortunately this isn't practical for a project of this complexity. I
realize that many of our customers are quite capable of doing SMD
assembly, but many would have difficulty, too, since there are hundreds
of SMDs, many with very fine pitch leads.
In order to support a "full" kit, we'd have to stock and kit all of the
SMDs for a small percentage of builders. This would represent a huge
amount of added overhead, since at present the SMDs are shipped
directly from vendors to our assembly facility. In addition, we'd need
a lot of additional documentation and support staff to help with
SMD-related assembly, testing, troubleshooting and repair. I consider
myself a very capable SMD builder, but I occasionally mis-install a
part or leave a joint unsoldered, and troubleshooting such problems can
be very tedious even for the designer!
The other request has been for a version of the K3 where the builder
installs all the leaded parts. This, too, would create major
difficulties for a product like the K3. Even if we pre-installed the
SMDs, we wouldn't be able to fully test the PC boards if we didn't also
install the leaded parts, including connectors. Nodal testing using
custom fixtures for each board might get around this, but it could take
another year of engineering time to complete. And we'd still have
problems: a very expensive multilayer board with lots of SMDs that was
damaged during customer assembly would be a serious liability both for
us and the builder.
The modular, no-soldering K3 kit will, we hope, be attractive to both
our current customers and to new builders who would never have
attempted to build their own transceiver before. With our encouragement
(and yours), these new builders may go on to try their hand at our
"full" kits. We plan to continue to offer all of our present kits and
will add new ones in the future.
73,
Wayne
N6KR
---
http://www.elecraft.com
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