8
Plug in the Filter board, keeping the red and black wires
below
the board. Re-position the wires as
needed.
The battery wires must not touch the Filter board or interfere with its insertion or removal.
Install the bottom cover (6 screws). Also install the KAT1 module if applicable.
Connect an external power supply or battery to the K1, then turn the transceiver on. Hold the
D I S P L A Y
switch to select S-meter mode, then hold it again to select
B A T
voltage display mode. Verify
that the voltage displayed is correct for the attached power source.
Note:
The indicated voltage will be
about 0.3 V lower than the actual source voltage due to the K1's reverse-polarity protection diode, D16.
This diode is in series with the external DC power jack only, not the internal battery. The internal battery
protection diode, D1, has a much lower voltage drop of about 0.1 V in receive mode.
Turn off the K1 and disconnect the external power source.
Install the new top cover. The cover is bent so that it creates a "hinge" at the front panel. When the
cover is correctly installed, the battery on/off switch will be accessible through a hole at the left.
To secure the cover, use two 4-40 thumb screws. Tighten them just enough to hold the cover in place.
Attach the INT. BATTERY ON-OFF label to the left side panel of the transceiver, approx. 1/8" (3
mm) below the top edge. The label should be aligned with the battery's on-off switch.
Using the Internal Battery
§
Install batteries in the K1 only when portable operation is planned. At all other times the
batteries should be removed and stored elsewhere.
§
Do not attempt to charge batteries inside the K1.
§
When inserting or removing batteries, avoid putting stress on the battery holder leads.
§
If the K1 is transported with batteries installed, set the internal battery switch to OFF. This will
prevent battery discharge if the K1's rear-panel power switch is unintentionally activated.
Battery Selection and Charging
Alkaline and NiCd batteries can be used with the K1. However, we recommend using high-capacity NiMH
cells (1600 mAhr), which are replacing older types in many applications. A compatible charger is required,
such as the Radio Shack #23-422 8-cell Fast-Charger, which will also work with NiCd batteries
Operating Considerations
To maximize battery life, set power to 3 W or less, use a well-matched antenna, and use headphones when
possible. In keeping with good QRP practice, you should
listen
far more than you transmit.
The K1 periodically flashes a
B A T L O
indication if the voltage drops below about 9 volts
3
. This level was
chosen for compatibility with an 8-cell NiMH pack, which will remain above 9 volts during 90% of its
charge. You can check the battery voltage at any time using
B A T
display mode (see above).
3
The warning level was 10.5 V in rev 108 and earlier firmware. Upgrading to 109 is recommended.
