That's the method I used as well, Craig. I would read the part, pick it out of the labeled bin, verify the color code/part code/value with the manual, insert, double check again between the manual and the board to make sure things were as they should be and then move on to the next part. After all the group was installed, I would solder everything. The best way I found to check for bad/non-existent solder joints was while I was clipping the leads. This all went quite a bit faster than it takes to talk about it. You kind of get in to a rhythm and things progressed along well for me.
Stan Rife W5EWA Houston, TX K2 S/N 4216 -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Craig Rairdin Sent: Monday, March 21, 2005 11:40 AM To: [email protected] Subject: RE: [Elecraft] a K2 thought? Robert Conley wrote: > In reviewing the K2 manual prior to ordering/building I have noticed > that there are several > instructions to install a 'GROUP' of components then solder and trim the > leads. Wouldn't > this lead to missed solder connections or cause a less than perfect > soldered joint. I should > think like 'THE TURTLE ' in that slow and steady (one at a time) will > get you there with a lot less chance of an error in assembly. I stuck with their groups and even grouped others where it was more efficient. Before soldering a group I reviewed each value and positively confirmed the location and value of each part. After soldering I examined each lead to make sure it was soldered well, and confirmed this as I trimmed each lead. In short, I think it's possible to be just as careful but have the efficiency of doing all the part placement at one time and all the soldering at one time. R. Kevin Stover wrote: > You do need > to install all components in a group before moving on to the next > section of the board/s so as to minimize component interference issues > when moving on to the next section. There are notable counterexamples, however. There were two or three places in my K1 where it would have been SIGNIFICANTLY easier to install the parts in a different order to make it easier to reach the part with the soldering tip or to trim the lead. > Anyone attempting these kits needs to have a good magnifier and get > comfortable using it This can't be said enough. I wear reading glasses during construction and attach those clip-on magnifiers. They're wonderful and don't get in the way. Even the writing on the smallest diode appears billboard sized and easy to read. Craig WB0GUU for one more week K1 #1966 _______________________________________________ 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
