Elecraft in Antarctica

[Mike Clarke-5]

Hi all,

I'm quite new to ham radio, and have only gained my UK Full license
relatively recently.  I'm enjoying exploring various different aspects
of the hobby, and decided to try my hand at building a kit.

Following strong recommendations from other local amateurs, I purchased a
K1.  The kit itself is still 'in progress', but I'm enjoying the process
enormously, and, with a bit of help from this list (and especially Don,
W3FPR), it's on track to be finished soon.

However, despite the fact that the kit isn't complete yet, it's already
been instrumental in getting me my dream new job!  I took it with me to
a recent interview with the British Antarctic Survey; being able to
demonstrate practical work I had done, and talk about experiences
building and trouble-shooting the kit was very valuable.  Thanks to
that K1, I'll be off to spend 18 months in the Antarctic, and, although
the K1 itself won't be coming along for the ride, K3#2847 _will_.

So thank you Elecraft for such great kits and superb instructions!  All
I need to do now is get saving for the extras I need (ok, ok, _want_) to
take along.

On to the question of the post: does anyone have any experience running
K3s at lower ambient temperatures?  How low can they safely go?  Any
other 'gotchas' to watch out for with low temperature operating?

Thanks,

--
Mike, M0PRL, hoping the W2 and (oh! please!) the fabled pan adaptor
actually ship before I leave.
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[Paul Fletcher]

Well done Mike! I'm only ever so slightly envious (understatement if ever there was one). I read on the web somewhere that the first thing to cause problems is LCD displays (assuming your battery hasn't died first) but this should only be a problem if you are operating in the open. I guess Wayne or Eric are best placed to comment about design parameters.

There are folks with experience of operating at sub-zero temps out there but not sure if they used Elecraft kit. If you are in contact with other members of the survey they might be able to help with experiences using ham gear in those conditions.

Very best wishes and have a great time
Paul M1PAF