On Tuesday, August 23, 2016 at 12:32:51 PM UTC-4, gregebert wrote:
>
> A solution to the inflexible socket-pins soldered to the PCB is to 
> custom-fit each tube. Assign a unique number to each tube and socket. Place 
> the pins onto the tube, then solder the pins to the PCB (almost like 
> soldering the tube in-place). Remove the tube, clip-off the extra leads on 
> the PCB. 
>
> The tube can be inserted almost effortlessly, and with far less force than 
> a conventional socket. My last clock has 18 sockets for IN-18's. "Only" 14 
> are actually populated, though. I found that even though each tube is 
> custom fitted to a particular location, it's fairly easy easy to 
> interchange them because the pins are manufactured with reasonable 
> consistency. Most IN-18 pins are soft and easily bent, so be extra careful 
> when handling, socketing, straightening, etc. Nevertheless, I do keep each 
> tube in it's assigned socket.
>
> If you have a 3D printer, make a socket-cap to slip over the soldered 
> pins. It will provide some mechanical protection for the pins, and it makes 
> insertion of tubes much easier. It will have the same appearance as a real 
> socket.
>
I will keep this in mind for assembly. I did notice all of the pins are 
skewed in one direction on a couple of the tubes I ordered. Not sure 
exactly how you're supposed to straighten them, I saw a tube straightener 
on ebay but it was $150 or something......for a piece of metal? There has 
to be an easier way.  

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