QRP Labs QCX-mini CW, Assembly Instructions Manual, Page: 11 / 121

Assembly steps will be in the order of smallest to largest components. I generally follow the
order semiconductors, capacitors, resistors and finally all other (generally larger)
components. It is probably unnecessarily thorough and complex to build the radio one stage
at a time and test each stage one by one… I recommend just install everything then power
up.
As per standard QRP Labs practice, the ATmega328P microcontroller has a 28-pin DIP
socket in case you may wish to subsequently replace it for firmware upgrades etc. Many of
the components in this kit are in surface mount packages (SMD) and these are already
soldered to the PCB for you, at the factory. All other components used are all leaded
through-hole packages, and all are installed on the top side of the PCB except where
otherwise noted.
Use of a good quality soldering iron and solder is highly recommended for best
results!
QCX-mini assembly Rev 1.05
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