Introduction – Elecraft K1 User Manual
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E
LECRAFT
3
1. Introduction
The K1 is a versatile, low-power CW transceiver that covers two
or four builder-selected HF bands. It provides 5 watts or more of
power output; excellent receiver sensitivity and selectivity; and
many useful operating features, including instant band selection,
receive and transmit incremental tuning (RIT/XIT), digital
display, configuration menu, and multiple crystal filter
bandwidths.
With receive-mode current drain of about 55 mA, built-in keyer,
and a stable, low-frequency VFO, the K1 is ideal for portable
operation. It's also one of the smallest multi-band HF transceivers
available–smaller than many single-band rigs. And, when used with
the optional wide-range tilt stand (KTS1), the K1 is truly trail-
friendly. The tilt stand comes with long arms for ground-mounting
(see below), as well as shorter arms for desk-top use.
Like our all-band K2 transceiver, the K1 uses modular construction,
allowing it to adapt to your operating needs. The Filter board covers
either two (KFL1-2) or four (KFL1-4) bands, and a different Filter
board can be swapped in at any time. There are two plug-in options,
including a noise blanker (KNB1) and automatic antenna tuner
(KAT1). There's also an internal AA-cell battery option (KBT1).
These options can be installed easily at any time.
The K1's modular assembly will also appeal to first-time builders.
The kit requires almost no point-to-point wiring, unlike earlier
designs that used wiring harnesses. The K1 even provides its own
built-in test equipment, including battery voltage monitor,
wattmeter, and frequency counter. The manual provides complete
troubleshooting and signal tracing procedures, and you’ll find further
support on our website,
www.elecraft.com
.
We’d like to thank you for choosing the K1 transceiver, and hope it
meets your expectations for operation both at home and in the field.
Wayne Burdick, N6KR
Eric Swartz, WA6HHQ