[K2] Issue with KAT2 connector

[David Brown]

This post is for K2 builders that have the internal KAT2 ATU.  I am
completing a K2 build that will include the KAT2.  The 2-pin connector (P6)
on the K2 RF Board connects to the RF input on the KAT2.  There is a
clearance problem where inductor L20 overlaps the footprint of P6 on the RF
board.  This overlap is about 2 mm in my case.  The recommended solution to
this overlap is to simply unsolder L20 and roll it forward to eliminate
this overlap.  I am uncomfortable with this and am thinking about using an
alternative method to make this connection.  I'm interested in hearing from
other K2 builders who may have used an alternative to P6 because of this
interference issue.

73
Dave, K8AX
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[Don Wilhelm-4]

Dave,

If you use a non-standard method of connection, that provides difficulty
if you ever have it serviced.  I routinely swap out full options when
doing troubleshooting (substitution is the quickest way to isolate a
problem).  If you use a non-standard connector, that cannot be done.

That 2mm will not cause a problem at all.  L20 will likely move toward
the rear a bit if you bend over C202 and give it a slight push.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 11/13/2015 5:43 PM, David Brown wrote:

> This post is for K2 builders that have the internal KAT2 ATU.  I am
> completing a K2 build that will include the KAT2.  The 2-pin connector (P6)
> on the K2 RF Board connects to the RF input on the KAT2.  There is a
> clearance problem where inductor L20 overlaps the footprint of P6 on the RF
> board.  This overlap is about 2 mm in my case.  The recommended solution to
> this overlap is to simply unsolder L20 and roll it forward to eliminate
> this overlap.  I am uncomfortable with this and am thinking about using an
> alternative method to make this connection.  I'm interested in hearing from
> other K2 builders who may have used an alternative to P6 because of this
> interference issue.
>

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[k6dgw]

Well Dave, the "Elecraft-Correct Answer" is do it the way they
recommend.  Because of the modularity, I'd guess that when they're
servicing K2's, they might swap in a known-good module to troubleshoot a
problem.  Changing the connector makes that hard[er].

That said, note that there are in fact two of those 2-pin Molex-type
connectors on the RF board.  Note also that the each of the 2 cables
will reach to either connector.  Swapping them will short the 12 V and
blow your fuse[s] ... hopefully.  I don't recommend changing one of the
connectors, but I do recommend some bright nail polish on one of them
[both sides] to lower the probability of misconnection.

I'm sure you can deduce how I know this. :-)

73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the Cal QSO Party 1-2 Oct 2016
- www.cqp.org

On 11/13/2015 2:43 PM, David Brown wrote:

> This post is for K2 builders that have the internal KAT2 ATU.  I am
> completing a K2 build that will include the KAT2.  The 2-pin connector (P6)
> on the K2 RF Board connects to the RF input on the KAT2.  There is a
> clearance problem where inductor L20 overlaps the footprint of P6 on the RF
> board.  This overlap is about 2 mm in my case.  The recommended solution to
> this overlap is to simply unsolder L20 and roll it forward to eliminate
> this overlap.  I am uncomfortable with this and am thinking about using an
> alternative method to make this connection.  I'm interested in hearing from
> other K2 builders who may have used an alternative to P6 because of this
> interference issue.
>
> 73
> Dave, K8AX

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