Elecraft

[Julius Fazekas n2wn]

Hi Bill,
You should definitely check the "Tech Note Articles"
on the Elecraft website. It will answer many of your
questions (provide you with choices, as much comes
down to operator preferences).

I've heard a lot of good things about Heil, but have
not used one with the K2 (haven't had it on SSB yet).
Same for PSK, although I have a RigBlaster and MixW
(both of which folks seem to like). That being said, a
number of folks have built simple interfaces. You may
or may not wish to go this route.

As to options, if you are limited to a single antenna,
both the KAT2 (QRP) and the KAT100 antenna tuners are
excellent. The KIO2 is an option if you plan on
controlling outboard components or using computer
control for the rig. If you buy the KPA100, you won't
need this as it is included. I'm guessing with your
interest in PSK that either the KIO2 or KPA100 would
be useful.

The KNB can be handy for certain types of noise, hard
to say if you would use it much or not. I do at one
QTH and don't at the other. Same goes for the KAF or
DSP unit, although with SSB you may be more inclined
to use it than with CW.

A good way to increase your code speed is to play in
contests, QRP contests in particular are better places
to find folks who will QRS for you. NAQCC holds a 2
hour sprint once a month around the FISTS frequencies
and the folks are slow speed friendly. State QSO
parties can also be QRS friendly as well.

The best thing you can do is read this reflector for a
while. Almost every subject under the ham sun(spots)
is covered from time to time and there is a wealth of
knowledge here.

If you get hung up for any parts, drop me a line, I
may have 'em in my junk box.

Welcome aboard and good luck on your code!

73,
Julius
n2wn
K2/100 #3311
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