Vectronics VEC-102K - Manual (Page 18)

18
Before You Start Building!
Your receiver is designed to work perfectly as soon as correct construction is completed.
Before we get started, let's explain exactly what we mean by "correct" construction. If
you understand potential and typical problems before you build, chances are that you
won't make those classic mistakes which can frustrate electronic kit builders.
There are just 4 possible building mistakes which will cause your receiver not to work:
1. Installing a WRONG part.
Example: Using a 10 ohm resistor in place of 10K ohm(10,000 ohms)
2. Installing certain parts BACKWARDS.
Example: Reversing the (+) and (-) sides of an electrolytic capacitor, or pointing the
flat side of a transistor in the wrong direction.
3. Faulty SOLDER connection.
Example: "cold" connections or solder "bridges".
4. OMITTING a part, solder connection or wire.
Example: if it's supposed to be there and isn't, we have a problem!
If you watch out for just these 4 pitfalls, you will build your receiver right the first time
and start enjoying its worldwide receiving capabilities right away.
Your receiver kit is designed to be very easy and satisfying to put together. If a word or
construction detail is unclear to you, check the glossary we complied for you or compare
the imprinting on the circuit board to the directions, or show it to a knowledgeable radio
friend.
Take the time to really EXAMINE and understand the circuit board. We don't want to
insult your intelligence by explaining that the parts are inserted on the TOP ("component
side"), which also illustrates component outlines and numbers, with all soldering done on
the BOTTOM (solder side), where you see silver circles ("pads") and a transparent green
coating. However, we must point this out to everyone simply because some eager kit
builders indeed have tried to solder all the parts on the wrong side, with disastrous
results!
Again before you start soldering, be certain that you understand the VECTRONICS
policy on kits explained on page 2 of this book. Once you begin construction, you truly
OWN this receiver kit!