Vectronics VEC-1320K User Manual

IMPORTANT WARRANTY INFORMATION! PLEASE READ

Return Policy on Kits When Not Purchased Directly From Vectronics: Before continuing any further with your VEC kit check with your Dealer about their return policy. If your Dealer allows returns, your kit must be returned before you begin construction.

Return Policy on Kits When Purchased Directly From Vectronics: Your VEC kit may be returned to the factory in its pre-assembled condition only. The reason for this stipulation is, once you begin i nsta lli ng a nd sol deri ng pa rt s, you essenti al ly tak e over the rol e of the devic e's manufacturer . From this point on, neither Vect ronics nor its dea lers can reas onably be held accountab le for the qua lity or the outcome of your work. Because of this, Vectronics cannot accept return of any kit-in-progress or completed work as a warranty item for any reason whatsoever. If you are a new or inexperienced kit b uilder, we urge you to read the manual carefully a nd determine whether or not you're r eady to tak e on the job. If you wish to c hange your mind and return your ki t, you may--b ut you must do i t before you begin c ons tr uc ti on, a nd within ten (10) working days of the time it arrives.

Vectronics Warrants: Your kit contains each item specified in the parts list. Missing Parts: If you determine, during your pre-construction inventory, that any part is

missing, please contact Vectronics and we'll send the missing item to you free of charge. However, before you contact Vect ronic s, please look carefully to c onf ir m you haven't misr ea d the marking on one of the other items provided with the kit. Also, make certain an alternative part hasn't been substituted for the item you're missing. If a specific part is no longer available, or if Engineering has determined that an alternative component is more suitable, Vectronics reserves the right to make substitutions at any time. In most cases, these changes will be clearly noted in an addendum to the manual.

Defective Parts: Today's electronic parts are physically and electrically resilient, and defective components a re r a re. However, if you disc over a n it em duri ng your pr e- c onst r uct i on inventory that's obviously broken or unserviceable, we'll replace it. Just return the part to Vectronics at the address below accompanied with an explanation. Upon receipt, we'll test it. If it's defec tive and appear s unused, we'll ship you a new one right away at no charge.

Missing or Defective Parts After You Begin Assembly: Parts and materials lost or damaged after construction begins are not covered under the terms of this warranty. However, most parts supplied with VEC kits are relatively inexpensive and Vectronics can replace them for a reasonable charge. Simply contact the factory with a complete description. We'll process your order quickly and get you back on trac k.

Factory Repair After You Begin Assembly: Kits-in progress and completed kits are specifically excluded from coverage by the Vectronics warranty. However, as a service to

customers, tec hnicia ns ar e availa ble t o evaluate a nd repai r malf unctioni ng kits for a minimum service fee of $18.00 (½ hour rate) plus $7.00 shipping and handling (prices subject to change). To qualify for repair service, your kit must be fully completed, unmodified, and the printed circuit board assembled using rosin-core solder. In the event your repair will require more than an hour to fi x (or $36.00, subject to change), our technicians will contact you in advance by telephone b efore p erforming t he work. Def ective unit s should b e shipp ed prep aid to:

Vectronics 300 Industrial Pa rk Road Starkville, MS 39759

When shipping, pack your kit well and include the minimum payment plus shipping and handling charges ($25.00 total). No work can be performed without pre-payment. Also, provide a valid UPS return address a nd a day time phone number where you may be reac hed.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

INTRODUCTION

This inexpensive transceiver kit provides a great first introduction to QRP operation, one of the hottest and fastest growing activities in amateur radio. When you build it, you'll discover what thousands of QRP enthusiasts already know--it doesn't take a degree from MIT to "homebrew" a rig that works! Indeed, all it takes are a few simple tools and a couple relaxing evenings of your time. And, once you complete it, you'll quickly unseat another myth--that it takes a $1000 radio to work DX. The VEC QRP-CW Transceiver Kit is simple to build and even easier to align. VXO frequency control and broadband transmitter circuitry eliminate the need for costly alignment equipment or tricky calibration procedures. Connect an antenna, peak the receiver's front-end trimmer, and you're ready to go! You'll get microvolt sensitivity and a solid QRP CW signal with shaped keying. Best of all, you'll experience the excitement of working other stations using a simple home-built rig you made with your own two hands!

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES

Construction Area:

area where you can easily organize and handle small parts without losing them. An inexpensive sheet of white poster board makes an excellent construction surface and provides protection for the underlying table or desk. Well-diffused overhead lighting is a plus, and a supplemental high-intensity desk lamp is especially helpful for close-up work. Safety is always important! Be sure to use a suitable high-temperature stand for your soldering iron, and keep the work area free of combustible clutter.

Universal Kit-building Tools:

additional items for completion, virtually all construction projects require a work area outfitted with the following tools and supplies.

30 to 60 Watt Soldering Iron

High-temperature Iron Holder with Moist Cleaning Sponge

Rosin-core Solder (thin wire size preferred, .031”)

Needle Nose Pliers or Surgical Hemostats

Diagonal Cutters or “Nippy Cutters”

Solder Sucker (squeeze or vacuum pump type), or Desoldering Braid

Bright Desk Lamp

Magnifying Glass

Kit construction requires a clean, smooth, and well-lighted

Although your particular kit may require

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Additional Items:

RF power meter or VSWR bridge (or LED--any color)

50-ohm dummy load (or 1-watt 47 ohm carbon-film resistor)

Telegraph key outfitted with a 1/4" monaural phone plug

Headphones or extension speaker outfitted with a 1/4" monaural phone plug

13.8-v dc power source

Antenna cut for band of operation

BEFORE YOU START BUILDING

Experience shows there are four common mistakes builders make. Avoid these, and your kit will probably work on the first try! Here's what they are:

1. Installing the Wrong Part:

and a 10K resistor may look almost the same, but they may act very differently in an electronic circuit! Same for capacitors--a device marked 102 (or .001 uF) may have very different operating characteristics from on marked 103 (or .01uF).

2. Installing Parts Backwards:

capacitors to make sure the positive (+) lead goes in the (+) hole on the circuit board. Transistors have a flat side or emitter tab to help you identify the correct mounting position. ICs have a notch or dot at one end indicating the correct direction of insertion. Diodes have a banded end indicating correct polarity. Always double-check--especially before applying power to the circuit!

3. Faulty Solder Connections:

bridges. Cold solder joints happen when you don't fully heat the connection-or when metallic corrosion and oxide contaminate a component lead or pad. Solder bridges form when a trail of excess solder shorts pads or tracks together (see Solder Tips below).

4. Omitting or Misreading a Part:

Always double-check to make sure you completed each step in an assembly sequence.

Soldering Tips:

professional soldering. Before you install and solder each part, inspect leads or pins for oxidation. If the metal surface is dull, sand with fine emery paper until shiny. Also, clean the oxidation and excess solder from the soldering iron tip to allow maximum heat transfer. Allow the tip of your iron to contact both the lead

Cleanliness and good heat distribution are the two secrets of

It always pays to double-check each step. A 1K

Always check the polarity of electrolytic

Inspect for cold-solder joints and solder

This is easier to do than you might think!

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

and pad for about one second (count "one-thousand-one") before feeding solder to the connection. Surfaces must become hot enough for solder to flow smoothly. Feed solder to the opposite side of the lead from your iron tip--solder will wick around the lead toward the tip, wetting all exposed surfaces. Apply solder sparingly, and do not touch solder directly to the hot iron tip to promote rapid melting.

Desoldering Tips:

these instructions carefully! First, grasp the component with a pair of hemostats or needle-nose pliers. Heat the pad beneath the lead you intend to extract, and pull gently. The lead should come out. Repeat for the other lead. Solder may fill in behind the lead as you extract it--especially if you are working on a double-sided b o ar d with plat e-thr o ugh hol es. Sho uld this ha pp e n, tr y heat ing the pad again and inserting a common pin into the hole. Solder won't stick to the pin's chromium plating. When the pad cools, remove the pin and insert the correct component. For ICs or multi-pin parts, use desoldering braid to remove excess solder before attempting to extract the part. Alternatively, a low-cost vacuum-bulb or spring-loaded solder sucker may be used. Parts damaged or severely overheated during extraction should be replaced rather than reinstalled.

Work Habits:

instructions and, in many cases, to perform new and unfamiliar tasks. To avoid making needless mistakes, work for short periods when you're fresh and alert. Recreational construction projects are more informative and more fun when you take your time. Enjoy!

Sorting and Reading Resistors:

a color code (shown below). You don't have to memorize this code to work with resistors, but you do need to understand how it works:

If you make a mistake and need to remove a part, follow

Kit construction requires the ability to follow detailed

The electrical value of resistors is indicated by

Resistor Color Code

Blue = 6 Violet = 7 Gray = 8 White = 9 Silver = 10% Gold = 5%

1st Digit 2nd Digit Multiplier

Tolerence

(gold or silver)

Black = 0 (tens) Brown = 1 (hundreds) Red = 2 (K) Orange = 3 (10K) Yellow = 4 (100K) Green = 5 (1Meg)

When you look at a resistor, check its multiplier code first. Any resistor with a black multiplier band falls between 10 and 99 ohms in value. Brown designates a value between 100 and 999 ohms. Red indicates a value from 1000 to 9999 ohms, which is also expressed as 1.0K to 9.9K. An orange multiplier band designates 10K to 99K, etc. To sort and inventory resistors, first separate them

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

into groups by multiplier band (make a pile of 10s, 100s, Ks, 10Ks, etc.). Next, sort each group by specific value (1K, 2.2K, 4.7K, etc.). This procedure makes the inventory easier, and also makes locating specific parts more convenient later on during construction. Some builders find it especially helpful to arrange resistors in ascending order along a strip of double-sided tape.

Some VEC kits may contain molded chokes which appear, at first glance, similar to resistors in both shape and band marking. However, a closer look will enable you to differentiate between the two--chokes are generally larger in diameter and fatter at the ends than resistors. When doing your inventory, separate out any chokes and consult the parts list for specific color-code information.

Reading Capacitors:

value identification. Instead, the value, or a 3-number code, is printed on the body.

Value Code

10 pF = 100 100 pF = 101 1000 pF = 102

.001 uF = 102*

.01 uF = 103 .1 uF = 104

As with resistors, it's helpful to sort capacitors by type, and then to arrange them in ascending order of value. Small-value capacitors are characterized in pF (or pico-Farads), while larger values are labeled in uF (or micro-Farads). The transition from pF to uF occurs at 1000 pF (or .001 uF)*. Today, most monolithic and disc-ceramic capacitors are marked with a three-number code. The first two digits indicate a numerical value, while the last digit indicates a multiplier (same as resistors).

Electrolytic capacitors are always marked in uF. Electrolytics are polarized devices and must be oriented correctly during installation. If you become confused by markings on the case, remember the uncut negative lead is slightly shorter than the positive lead.

Diodes:

Always look for the banded or cathode end when installing, and follow instructions carefully.

Diodes are also polarized devices that must be installed correctly.

Unlike resistors, capacitors no longer use a color code for

ectrolytic

1 uF

1uF

35V

Multilayer

(270 pF)

271

Ceramic Discs

(.001 uF) (.1 uF)

102

104

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Cathode

(shorter Lead)

Diode

Transistors:

power is applied. Transistors in metal cases have a small tab near the emitter lead to identify correct positioning. Semiconductors housed in small plastic cases (TO-92) have an easily-identified flat side to identify mounting orientation. Many specialized diodes and low-current voltage regulators also use this type packaging. Larger plastic transistors and voltage regulators use a case backed with a prominent metal tab to dissipate heat (T-220). Here orientation is indicated by the positioning of the cooling tab.

Emitter

Integrated Circuits:

marking located on one end of the device. A corresponding mark will be silkscreened on the PC board and printed on the kit's parts-placement diagram. To identify specific IC pin numbers for testing purposes, see the diagram below. Pin numbers always start at the keyed end of the case and progress counterclockwise around the device, as shown:

If transistors are installed incorrectly, damage may result when

Metal Can Device Plastic Device Tab-cooled Device

Flat Side

Proper IC positioning is indicated by a dot or square

8 7 6 5

LED

Metal Tab

Installation

Key

1 2 3 4

Pin Numbers

Installation

Key

PARTS LIST

The parts list for your kit is presented in two parts. First, you'll identify and inventory the generic par ts--those items common to all VEC QPR transceiver

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

kits regardle ss of band. Then you'll i nventory a bag which contains frequencycritical parts that determine the specific band of operation.

If any parts are missing or damaged, refer to the manual's warranty section for replacement instructions. If you can't positively identify an unfamiliar item on the basis of the information given, set it aside until all other items are checked off. You may then be able to identify it by process of elimination. Finally, your kit will go together more smoothly if parts are organized by type and arranged by value ahead of time. Use this inventory as an opportunity to sort and arrange parts so you can identify and find them quickly during constructio n.

First, locate and identify the generic parts bags. These items are common to all four models of the VEC QRP-CW Transmitter Kit:

Capacitors:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

7 .01 uF ceramic disc (103) C17,C19,C21,C22,

2 .05 uF ceramic disc (503) C6,C12 200-2500

5 .1 uF ceramic disc (104) C3,C8,C20,C30,C32 200-3100

3 1 uF electrolytic C4,C5,C11 270-4100-2

1 10 uF electrolytic C7 270-5100-1

2 100 uF electrolytic C9,C10 270-6100-1

1 12-100 pF trimcap C1 280-2100

1 multisection cap C16 281-4010

1 tuning shaft for C16 715-2520-

C26,C29,C31

200-2100

0500

Resistors:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

2 100 ohm (brown-black-brown) R7,R11 100-2100

1 270 ohm (red-violet-brown) R12 100-2270

1 470 ohm (yellow-violet-brown) R4 100-2470

2 1K ohm (brown-black-red) R3,R8 100-3100

2 3.3K ohm (orange-orange-red) R2,R10 100-3330

3 10K ohm (brown-black-orange) R5,R6,R14 100-4100

2 47K ohm (yellow-violet-orange) R9,R13 100-4470

1 1K ohm potentiometer R1 153-3100-1

Diodes:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

2 1N4148 silicon switching diode D1,D2 300-4148

1 1N4007 rectifier diode D3 300-4007

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Semiconductors:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

1 2N3904 NPN transistor Q1 305-3904

1 PN2222 NPN transistor Q2 305-2222-1

1 2N3053 NPN transistor Q3 305-3055

1 2N3906 PNP transistor Q4 305-3906

1 SA602A IC U1 325-0602

1 LM386 IC U2 324-0386

Other:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

2 T50-2 toroid (½" OD red) T1,L4 403-1003

1 coaxial-type power jack J1 601-6021

1 RCA jack J2 600-0011

2 DPDT switch SW1,SW2 504-0022

1 6" length of hookup wire 871-2499-

1 24" length of #22 wire 870-3022R

1 TO-5 heat sink for Q3 750-0194

1 VEC-13xx Printed Circuit Board 861-1320

1 double-sided tape 781-6312

0600

Now, to complete the inventory, select the list below for the specific model of your kit--and check off those items:

VEC-1320K 20-Meter Parts Package:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

1 2.2 pF ceramic disc (2.2) C13 200-00022

1 22 pF multilayer (22 or 220) C15 200-0022

2 47 pF multilayer (47 or 470) C2,C18 220-0047

1 68 pF multilayer (68 or 680) C25 220-0068

3 220 pF multilayer (221) C14,C27,C28 220-0220

1 330 pF multilayer (331) C24 220-0330

1 470 pF multilayer (471) C23 220-0470

2 1.8 uH choke (brown-gray-gold) L2,L3 401-3180

1 3.3 uH choke (orange-orange-gold) L1 401-3330

1 14.060 MHz crystal Y1 414-06000

VEC-1330K 30-Meter Parts Package:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

1 3.3 pF ceramic disc (3.3) C13 200-00033-1

1 22 pF multilayer (22 or 220) C15 220-0022

2 47 pF multilayer (47 or 470) C2,C18 220-0047

1 100 pF multilayer (101) C25 220-0100

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

3 330 pF multilayer (331) C14,C27,C28 220-0330

1 470 pF multilayer (471) C23 220-0470

1 680 pF multilayer (681) C24 220-0680

2 2.2 uH choke (red-red-gold) L2,L3 401-3220

1 3.3 uH choke (orange-orange-gold) L1 401-3330

1 10.108 MHz crystal Y1 410-10800

VEC-1340K 40-Meter Parts Package:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

1 3.3 pF ceramic disc (3.3) C13 200-00033-1

2 47 pF multilayer (47 or 470) C2,C15 220-0047

2 100 pF multilayer (101) C18,C25 220-0100

1 270 pF multilayer (221) C14 220-0270

1 330 pF multilayer (331) C23 220-0330

2 470 pF multilayer (471) C27,C28 220-0470

1 1000 pF multilayer (1000) C24 220-1010

3 4.7 uH choke (yellow-violet-gold) L1,L2,L3 401-3470

1 7.040 MHz crystal Y1 405-04000

1 24" length of #24 wire 870-3024G

VEC-1380K 80-Meter Parts Package:

Qty Part Description Designation VEC P/N

1 4.7 pF ceramic disc (4.7) C13 200-00047-1

1 68 pF multilayer (68 or 680) C15 220-0068

1 100 pF multilayer (101) C18 220-0100

1 180 pF multilayer (181) C2 220-0180

2 470 pF multilayer (471) C23,C25 220-0470

4 820 pF multilayer (821) C14,C24,C27,C28 220-0820

3 10 uH choke (brown-black-black) L1,L2,L3 401-4100

1 3.5795 MHz crystal Y1 405-0107

1 24" length of #24 wire 870-3024G

Once again, if any parts are missing, consult the warranty page on the inside cover for specific replacement instructions. If your parts inventory is complete, you're ready to star t buil ding. Re member, o nce c onstr uctio n begins, you may no longer return your kit.

Many builders find it helpful to make a Xerox copy of the parts-placement diagram and the schematic diagram . These may then be posted in your work area for reference. A parts-placement layout is also printed on the circuit board to help you locate where to install each part.

PARTS PLACEMENT

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

STEP-BY-STEP ASSEMBLY

Your transceiver kit will be constructed in three stages. First, you'll install the smaller generic parts (resistors, capacitors, etc.) that are common to all four models. Next, you'll mount frequency-determining components--those parts that determine the specific band of operation for your particular kit. Finally, you'll complete the project by installing larger generic parts such as jacks and switches--things that might get in the way if installed first.

In these instructions, when you see the term install, this means to locate, identify, and insert the part into its mounting holes on the pc board. This includes prebending or straightening leads as needed so force is not required to seat the part. Once a component is mounted, bend each lead over to hold it in place. Use sharp side-cutters to clip off excess lead length before soldering. Make sure trimmed leads don't touch other pads and tracks, or a short circuit may result:

Good

The term solder means to solder the part's leads in place, and to inspect both (or all) solder connections for flaws or solder bridges. Nip off excess protruding leads with a sharp pair of side cutters.

Notice the directions use two sets of check boxes. Check one when a step is complete and use the other for double-checking your work before operation.

Stage 1

This kit contains 13 fixed-value 1/4 watt resistors. Begin construction by mounting these first, starting with the smallest value and moving to the largest. Before installing each one, carefully bend both leads to form right-angles, as shown below:

When installing resistors, save a few of the clipped-off lead ends--you'll need these for pc board jumpers later on.

: Small Generic Parts

Not Good

.4"

Find two (2) 100 ohm resistors (brown-black-brown).

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

! !

1."Install a 100 ohm resistor at R7 and solder.

! !

2."Install a 100 ohm resistor at R11 and solder.

! !

3."Find the 270 ohm resistor (red-violet-brown). Install at R12 and solder.

! !

4."Find the 470 ohm resistor (yellow-violet-brown). Install at R4 and solder.

Find two (2) 1K resistors (brown-black-red).

! !

5."Install a 1K resistor at R3 and solder.

! !

6."Install a 1K resistor at R8 and solder.

Find two (2) 3.3K resistors (orange-orange-red).

! !

7."Install a 3.3K resistor at R2 and solder.

! !

8."Install a 3.3K resistor at R10 and solder.

Find three (3) 10K resistors (brown-black-orange).

! !

9."Install a 10K resistor at R5 and solder.

! !

10."Install a 10K resistor at R6 and solder.

! !

11."Install a 10K resistor at R14 and solder.

Find two (2) 47K resistors (yellow-violet-orange).

! !

12."Install a 47K resistor at R9 and solder.

! !

13."Install a 47K resistor at R13 and solder.

This completes installation of the 13 fixed-value resistors supplied with the kit. Take a moment to inspect your solder connections and to confirm each resistor has been installed in the right pc board location. Next, you'll install the kit's 14 disc ceramic capacitors.

Locate seven (7) .01 uF disc ceramic capacitors (marked 103).

! !

14."Install .01 uF at C17 and solder.

! !

15."Install .01 uF at C19 and solder.

! !

16."Install .01 uF at C21 and solder.

! !

17."Install .01 uF at C22 and solder.

! !

18."Install .01 uF at C26 and solder.

! !

19."Install .01 uF at C29 and solder.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

! !

20."Install .01 uF at C31 and solder.

Locate two (2) .05 uF disc ceramic capacitors (marked 503).

! !

21."Install .05 uF at C6 and solder.

! !

22."Install .05 uF at C12 and solder.

Locate five (5) .1 uF disc ceramic capacitors (marked 104).

! !

23."Install .1 uF at C3 and solder.

! !

24."Install .1 uF at C8 and solder.

! !

25."Install .1 uF at C20 and solder.

! !

26."Install .1 uF at C30 and solder.

! !

27."Install .1 uF at C32 and solder.

Your kit also contains six electrolytic capacitors.

and must be installed the correct way in order to work.

mounting hole is noted on both the circuit board and parts placement diagram. If the markings on the capacitor body are unclear, the plus (+) lead is always the longer of the two.

Locate three (3) 1 uF electrolytic capacitors.

! !

28."Install 1 uF at C4 and solder.

! !

29."Install 1 uF at C5 and solder.

! !

30."Install 1 uF at C11 and solder.

! !

31."Find a 10 uF electrolytic capacitor. Install at C7 and solder.

Locate two (2) 100 uF electrolytic capacitors.

! !

32."Install 100 uF at C9 and solder.

! !

33."Install 100 uF at C10 and solder.

This completes capacitor installation for now. Take a moment to double-check capacitor location and electrolytic polarity. Electrolytics must be installed correctly in order to work. Also, note there are several fixed-value capacitors remaining in your kit. These will be installed later as frequency-determining parts. Finally, the VXO variable capacitor (C16) and adjustable trimmer (C1) will be installed last because of their larger size.

Electrolytic caps are polarized

The capacitor's plus (+)

Now that you've accumulated a collection of nipped-off lead-ends, this is a good time to install the board's five (5) jumper leads. Each should be pre-formed prior

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

to installation, as shown below. The approximate distance between mounting holes is given for each to help you pre-form them. When installed, each jumper should lay flat against the PC board.

span

! !

34."Form a .275" jumper and install at JMP1.

! !

35."Form a .225" jumper and install at JMP2.

! !

36."Form a .425" jumper and install at JMP3.

! !

37."Form a .5" jumper and install at JMP4.

! !

38."Form a .5" jumper and install at JMP5.

Save one additional resistor lead for connecting variable capacitor C16 later on. Next, install the kit's transistors and diodes.

critical--they must be oriented correctly.

! !

39."Locate the 2N3906 transistor (black plastic case), checking identification markings closely. Find its flat side and align with the printed outline on the pc board before inserting the leads. Install the 2N3906 at Q4 and solder.

discarded lead end

Positioning of these parts is

2N3906 E B C

! !

40."Locate a 2N3904 transistor (black plastic case). Install at Q1 and solder.

! !

41."Locate a PN2222 transistor (black plastic case). Install at Q2 and solder.

! !

42."Find the 2N3053 transistor (metal case). Install at Q3, inserting leads all the way so the metal case rests against the pc board surface. The metal "emitter" tab should point toward C29. Solder.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Locate two (2) 1N4148 diodes. The 1N4148 has a small glass body with a black band at one end. When installing, position this band to correspond with the marking on the pc board.

! !

43."Install a 1N4148 at D1, observing the position of the band. Solder.

! !

44."Install a 1N4148 at D2, observing the position of the band. Solder.

! !

45."Locate the 1N4007 diode (larger body). Observing polarity, install at D3 and solder. Save the clipped-off lead ends--these will be installed to support VXO capacitor C16 later on.

Find U1, a NE602 8-pin IC (integrated circuit). Look for the markings "NE602AN”, or other similar nomenclature such as “SA602”. Note that the IC body has a small notch or dimple called a installation key molded at one end. Inspect and straighten any bent pins prior to installation.

8 7 6 5

Installation

Key

1 2 3 4

Pin Numbers

! !

46."Align the NE602 so the installation key corresponds with markings on the pc board at U1. Carefully insert the pins into the mounting holes provided, seating the device firmly in place. Confirm all pins protrude through the b oar d, and that no ne were b ent o ver d uring i nserti on. T he keyed end should be positioned toward the front of the pc board.

Installation

Key

! !

47."Solder U1.

! !

48."Locate the LM386 Audio Amplifier IC. Identify the keyed end and carefully install at U2. They keyed end should be toward the back of the board.

! !

49."Solder U2.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

This concludes the first phase of construction (small generic parts). Next, you'll install frequency-determining components. However, before you start, this might be a good time to take a well-deserved break! Be sure to check transistor and diode positioning and polarity before moving on.

Stage 2

In this section, you'll select a specific set of instructions for your particular kit. However, before you do this, please review these two important general construction tips that apply to all four versions.

Installing Multilayer Capacitors:

kit. A multilayer cap is similar to a surface-mount "chip" capacitor, except that it has a lead spot-welded onto each end of the capacitor body. Each cap is then coated with an epoxy coating. Multilayers have superior radio-frequency operating characteristics, but the lead welds may fail if the leads are placed under stress while being heated during installation or removal. For this reason, never use force to seat a multilayer cap into the PC board. If the spacing isn't right, pre-form the leads to the correct spacing before installation!

Winding T1 and L4:

low-pass filter each use a high-Q toroid inductor wound on a T50-2 form (T50 means the form is .50" in diameter and 2 designates the "mix" of powdered iron used to make it). When winding toroid coils, remember the number of turns are counted inside the form. This means, if the instructions call for a 12-turn coil, you must pass the wire through the ce nter of the core 12 times. When winding these coils, be sure to pull each turn up tight before starting the next. If the coil is wound loosely, inductance increases. At L4, this could reduce transmitter output power.

: Frequency-Determining Parts

There are 9 multilayer capacitors in your

Incorrect

The receiver's pre-selector circuit and the transmitter's

Ooops!

Correct

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Count turns on inside of form.

Pull each turn tight before winding the next.

Tin leads with solder before installing.

Before installing T1 or L4 on the pc board, be sure to tin both coil leads with solder. The coil wire provided with your kit is coated with heat-stripable enamel insulation that breaks down at soldering-iron temperatures. If you touch the tip of an iron to the end of the wire for several seconds, the insulation should start to melt, allowing solder to adhere to the copper underneath. If your iron isn't hot enough to start this process, carefully scrape off insulation with a small hobby knife before attempting to tin.

If necessary, refer back to these instructions at any time during assembly. You may now move ahead to the section of the manual that corresponds with your particular kit.

VEC-1320K 20-Meter Transceiver Kit

! !

1."Find the 2.2 pF disc ceramic capacitor (2.2). Install at C13 and solder.

! !

2."Find the 22 pF multilayer cap (marked 22 or 220). Install at C15 and solder.

Find two (2) 47 pF multilayer cap (47 or 470).

! !

3."Install a 47 pF at C2.

! !

4."Install a 47 pF at C18.

! !

5."Find the 68 pF multilayer cap (68 or 680). Install at C25 and solder.

Find three (3) 220 pF multilayer caps (marked 221).

! !

6."Install a 220 pF multilayer at C14 and solder.

! !

7."Install a 220 pF multilayer at C27 and solder.

! !

8."Install a 220 pF multilayer at C28 and solder.

! !

9."Find the 330 pF multilayer cap (marked 331). Install at C24 and solder.

! !

10."Find the 470 pF multilayer cap (471). Install at C23 and solder.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Locate two (2) 1.8 uH chokes (brown-gray-gold-silver or gold).

! !

11."Install a 1.8 uH at L2 and solder.

! !

12."Install a 1.8 uH at L3 and solder.

! !

13. Find the 3.3 uH (orange-orange-gold-silver or gold). Install at L1 and solder.

Locate two T50-2 toroid coil forms (a donut-shaped part about ½" in diameter and color-coded red). Also, find the #22 enameled coil wire provided with your kit.

! !

14. Wind twenty (20) turns of #22 enameled wire onto the T50-2 form. Note that turns are counted inside the form, and each turn is pulled tight before winding the next. Sp read the windings out, distributing over 80% of the form's circumference.

! !

15. Trim each coil lead to ½" in length and tin with solder.

! !

16. Wind a two-turn secondary link of hook-up wire over the center portion of t he primary winding (two turns p assing through the center ). Install at T1, laying flat--as shown below. Save unused portion of insulated wire--you will need 4" of insulated wire later.

Primary

Link

! !

17. Solder T1 in place.

! !

18. Wind 10 turns of #22 enameled wire on a T50-2 toroid form. Spread windings for 80% coverage, and install at L4 in an upright position.

! !

19. Solder L4 in place.

! !

20. Locate the 14.060 MHz crystal (metal can, two wire leads). Install at Y1 and solder.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

This completes stage 2 construction of the VEC-1320K checking for er rors, you may now move on to the fi nal stage of construction.

VEC-1330K 30-Meter Transceiver Kit

! !

1. Find the 3.3 pF disc ceramic capacitor (3.3). Install at C13 and solder.

! !

2. Find the 22 pF multilayer capacitor (22 or 220). Install at C15 and solder.

Find two (2) 47 pF multilayer capacitors (47 or 470).

! !

3. Install a 47 pF at C18 and solder.

! !

4. Install a 47 pF at C2 and solder.

! !

5. Find the 100 pF multilayer capacitor (101). Install at C25 and solder.

Find three (3) 330 pF multilayer capacitors (331).

! !

6. Install a 330 pF at C14 and solder.

! !

7. Install a 330 pF at C27 and solder.

! !

8. Install a 330 pF at C28 and solder.

! !

9. Find the 470 pF multilayer capacitor (471). Install at C23 and solder.

! !

10. Find the 680 pF multilayer capacitor (681). Install at C24 and solder.

Find two (2) 2.2 uH molded chokes (red-red-gold-silver or gold)

20-meter kit

After

! !

11. Install a 2.2 uH at L2 and solder.

! !

12. Install a 2.2 uH at L3 and solder.

! !

13. Find the 3.3 uH molded choke (orange-orange-gold-silver or gold). Install at L1 and solder.

Locate two T50-2 toroid coil forms (½" donut-shaped form, red color code). Also, find the #22 enameled coil wire provided with your kit.

! !

14. Wind twenty-five (25) turns of #22 enameled wire onto the T50-2 form. Note that turns are counted inside the form, and each turn is pulled tight before winding the next. Spread the windings out, distributing over 80% of the form's circumference.

! !

15. Trim each coil lead to ½" in length and tin with solder.

! !

16. Wind a two-turn secondary link of hook-up wire over the center portion of t he primary winding (two turns p assing through the center ).

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Install at T1, laying flat--as shown below. Save unused portion of insulated wire--you will need 4" of insulated wire later.

Primary

Link

! !

17. Solder T1 in place.

! !

18. Wind 12 turns of #22 enameled wire on a T50-2 toroid form. Spread windings for 80% coverage, and install at L4 in an upright position.

! !

19. Solder L4 in place.

! !

20. Locate the 10.108 MHz crystal (metal can, two wire leads). Install at Y1 and solder.

This completes stage 2 construction of the VEC-1330K

30-meter kit

After

checking for er rors, you may now move on to the fi nal stage of construction.

VEC-1340K 40-Meter Transceiver Kit

! !

1. Find the 3.3 pF disc ceramic capacitor (3.3). Install at C13 and solder.

Locate two (2) 47 pF multilayer capacitors (47 or 470).

! !

2. Install a 47 pF at C2 and solder.

! !

3. Install a 47 pF at C15 and solder.

Locate two (2) 100 pF multilayer capacitors (101).

! !

4. Install a 100 pF at C18 and solder.

! !

5. Install a 100 pF at C25 and solder.

! !

6. Find the 270 pF multilayer capacitor (271). Install at C14 and solder.

! !

7. Find the 330 pF multilayer capacitor (331). Install at C23 and solder.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Locate two (2) 470 pF multilayer capacitors (471).

! !

8. Install a 470 pF at C27 and solder.

! !

9. Install a 470 pF at C28 and solder.

! !

10. Find the 1000 pF (or .001 uF) multilayer capacitor (102). Install at C24 and solder.

Find three (3) 4.7 uH molded chokes (yellow-violet-gold, silver or gold)

! !

11. Install a 4.7 uH at L1 and solder.

! !

12. Install a 4.7 uH at L2 and solder.

! !

13. Install a 4.7 uH at L3 and solder.

Locate two T50-2 toroid coil forms (½" donut-shaped form, red color code). Also, find the #24 enameled coil wire provided with your kit.

! !

14. Wind thirty (30) turns of #24 enameled wire onto the T50-2 form. Note that turns are counted inside the form, and each turn is pulled tight before winding the next. Sp read the windings out, distributing over 80% of the form's circumference.

! !

15. Trim each coil lead to ½" in length and tin with solder.

! !

Primary

Link

! !

17. Solder T1 in place.

Find the #22 wire.

! !

18. Wind 16 turns of #22 enameled wire on a T50-2 toroid form. Spread windings for 80% coverage, and install at L4 in an upright position.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

! !

19. Solder L4 in place.

! !

20. Locate the 7.040 MHz crystal (metal can, two wire leads). Install at Y1 and solder.

This completes stage 2 construction of the VEC-1340 checking for er rors, you may now move on to the fi nal stage of construction.

VEC-1380K 80-Meter Transceiver Kit

! !

1. Find the 4.7 pF disc ceramic capacitor (4.7). Install at C13 and solder.

! !

2. Find the 68 pF multilayer capacitor (68 or 680). Install at C15 and solder.

! !

3. Find the 100 pF multilayer capacitor (101). Install at C18 and solder.

! !

4. Find the 180 pF multilayer capacitor (181). Install at C2 and solder.

Locate two (2) 470 pF multilayer capacitors (470).

! !

5. Install a 470 pF at C23 and solder.

! !

6. Install a 470 pF at C25 and solder.

Locate four (4) 820 pF multilayer capacitor (821).

! !

7. Install a 820 pF at C14 and solder.

! !

8. Install a 820 pF at C24 and solder.

! !

9. Install a 820 pF at C27 and solder.

! !

10. Install a 820 pF at C28 and solder.

Locate three (3) 10 uH molded chokes (brown-black-black-gold or silver).

40-meter kit

After

! !

11. Install a 10 uH choke at L1 and solder.

! !

12. Install a 10 uH choke at L2 and solder.

! !

13. Install a 10 uH choke at L3 and solder.

Locate two T50-2 toroid coil forms (½" donut-shaped form, red color code). Also, find the #24 enameled coil wire provided with your kit.

! !

14. Wind forty (40) turns of #24 enameled wire onto the T50-2 form. Note that turns are counted inside the form, and each turn is pulled tight before winding the next. Sp read the windings out, distributing over 80% of the form's circumference.

! !

15. Trim each coil lead to ½" in length and tin with solder.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

! !

16. Wind a three-turn secondary link of hook-up wire over the center portion of t he primary winding (two turns p assing through the center ). Install at T1, laying flat--as shown below. Save unused portion of insulated wire--you will need 4" of insulated wire later.

Primary

Link

! !

17. Solder T1 in place.

Find the #22 wire.

! !

18. Wind 20 turns of #22 enameled wire on a T50-2 toroid form. Install at L4 in an upright position.

! !

19. Solder L4 in place.

! !

20. Locate the 3.579 MHz crystal (metal can, two wire leads). Install at Y1 and solder.

This completes stage-2 construction of the

80-meter kit

. After checking for

errors, you may now move on to the final stage of construction.

Stage 3

: Completing your Kit

During this final stage of construction, you'll install the remaining larger components. From now on, your transceiver will take shape very quickly!

Locate two (2) DPDT push-button switches.

! !

1. Install a DPDT switch at SW1 and solder in place.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

! !

2. Install a DPDT switch at SW2 and solder in place.

! !

3. Locate the 100 pF trimcap. Install at C1 and solder.

! !

4. Locate the RCA pc mounted jack. Install at J2 and solder all tabs in place.

! !

5. Locate the 2.1 mm DC power jack. Install at J1, seating the case flat against the surface of the pc board. Twist each solder tab slightly to secure the jack place, and solder all three.

! !

6. Locate a length of insulated hook-up and prepare two (2) 2" lengths.

! !

7. Install one wire at the "Key" pad and solder.

! !

8. Install one wire at the "Speaker" pad and solder.

Find the plastic-encased variable capacitor. T his is the transmitter's VXO tuning control (C16).

Locate the small strip of double-sided tape. Also, find the two heavy-gauge leads removed from the 1N4007 diode. These items will be used to secure C16 in place.

! !

9. Using scissors or a hobby knife, cut a ½" by ¾" square of double-sided tape. Install this within the box printed at C16 on the pc board (see diagram).

To orient the variable capacitor for installation, use the following diagram. There should be a ground tab to the left and right of the shaft. At the rear of the cap, a solder tab will protrude from the case at lower left. When the cap is positioned as shown, press it down onto the tape to secure it in place.

Top View

C16 connection

Tab

VXO

Capacitor

Tape

Ground

Tabs

Ground Tab

Front View

VXO Capacitor

Leads

Heav

Shaft

Ground Tab

Double-sided Tape

! !

10. Install two (2) heavy leads (from the 1N4007 diode) from the ground tabs to the pads provided on the front of the pc board. Solder each lead at both ends. The combined holding action of the two-sided tape and the ground leads should anchor the cap firmly in place. Rotate the cap through its range--the c apacitor should not shift position.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

! !

11. Find a resistor lead clipping. Install this between the C16 connection pad and the nearest solder-tab on the rear of C16. Solder at both ends.

Locate the 1K potentiometer. Before installing, inspect the type of potentiometer supplied with your kit. If the pins are located on the front side of the pot, use the front set of mounting holes on the PC board for installation. If the pins are on the rear, use the rear set of mounting holes (see following diagram). Also, using side cutters, remove the key tab from the side of the pot prior to installation.

Rear pins use rear holes.

Nip off tab.

! !

12. Install the 1K potentiometer at R1 and solder.

! !

13. Find the tuning sha ft for C16. Install using a small a mount of contac t cement or super glue.

! !

14. Find the TO-5 type clip-on heat sink for Q4. Slip this over the 2N3053 transistor.

The custom enclosure for your VEC-13xxK kit (VEC-1300KC) includes two 1/4" monaural phone jacks for the key line and the speaker. Use the following steps to install the 1/4" jacks. If you have chosen to use your own jacks, now is a good time to connect them.

! !

15. Locate two (2) 1/4" monaural phone jacks. Identify the plug-tip or center-connection terminal (as shown in following diagram).

This jack is supplied with

the VEC-1300KC enclosure.

Front pins use front holes.

Nip off tab.

Center connection (wire)

Common connection (case)

! !

16. Identify the free end of the "key" hook-up wire. Connect to the centerconnection terminal of one 1/4" jack.

! !

17. Identify the free end of the "speaker" hook-up wire. Connect to the center-connection terminal of the other 1/4" jack.

Congratulations--this concludes construction your Vec tronics QRP tr ansceiver.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

You deserve a well-earned break! When you come back, give your work a thorough "QC" quality-control check before moving on to the testing and alignment section.

TESTING AND ALIGNMENT

PC Board Inspection:

QC (quality control) inspection. This will help you find inadvertent assembly errors that might prevent the radio from working or cause damage to sensitive parts. Follow this procedure:

Compare parts locations against the parts-placement diagram. Was each

part installed where it is supposed to be? Was the correct value used? Start at one side of the board and work your way across in an organized pattern.

Inspect the solder side of the board for cold-solder joins and solder bridges

between tracks or pads. Use a magnifying glass to obtain a clear view of the track area. If you suspect a solder bridge, hold the board in front of a bright light for a better view. All joints should be smooth and shiny, indicating good solder wetting and flow. Resolder any beaded or dull-appearing connections.

Before ap plying power to your kit, give it a thorough

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

Finally, check the electrolytic capacitor and diodes for correct polarity.

Does the plus (+) polarity symbol on the part agree with the pictorial and with the pattern on the PC board? How about the diode bands? Were Q1Q4 all installed correctly? Are the ICs installed the right way?

Be sure to correct all errors before moving on. If a careful inspection revealed that everything is OK , you're now ready for the moment of truth!

Tools and Materials Required for Testing:

Your VEC transceiver uses a "no-tune" design with only one adjustable alignment trimmer. However, to ensure everything is working correctly, you'll need to run some initial tests. This requires the following items:

1. 50-ohm dummy load:

resistor capable of handling one watt, will provide a satisfactory transmitter termination for testing. Two (2) 100-ohm 1-watt metal oxide resistors (RadioShack 271-152) connected in parallel across a standard RF connector work well.

2. Power Meter:

confirm the actual output power of your transmitter. If you don't have a wattmeter, a standard 5mm LED will provide a rough indication of RF output (see instructions).

3. Telegraph Key:

electronic keyers. To plug in, you'll need a standard 1/4" monaural plug. Ground (or common) is connected to the plug's outer sleeve, and the key line is connected to the plug's tip.

3.5 mm Phone Plug Sleeve

Tip

A dummy load, or any 47 to 51 ohm non-inductive

PL258

100 ohm

If you have access to a sensitive power meter, this will

The transmitter's keying circuit works with manual keys or

Key

Ring (not used)

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

4. Power Supply:

power source. Avoid using poorly-regulated or inadequately-filtered 12-volt wall-adapters. These can generate ripple on the CW note, and may even damage your kit if the unloaded output exceeds 15 volts. A fully-charged 12volt battery is also a suitable power source, altho ugh transmitter output may be reduced slightly (RF output is specified at 13.8 volts).

The power jack supplied with your kit is a common 2.1-mm DC connector. The mating 5.0-mm OD x 2.1-mm ID plugs are available at your local RadioShack store (274-1567). Take care not to reverse-connect the power leads.

(+) or red power supply lead connects to the center pin, and the minus (-) or black lead connects to the outer sleeve.

confirm polarity with a voltmeter before installing the plug!

Use any well-regulated 12-14 volt 500-mA DC (or 0.5 A)

The plus

If your power wires aren't color-coded,

DC Power Supply

Important Note:

protected against major damage by a "crowbar" diode (D1). However, activation will blow a "trace fuse" etched onto the circuit board next to the power connector. This must be replaced by a thin wire or a pig-tail type fuse before your kit will operate again (see "In Case of Difficulty").

In case of accidental reverse-power connection, your kit is

13.8V @ 0.5A

5. RF Cables:

catalog number 278-208 from Radio Shack. This "Motorola" adapter requires minor modification to work with RCA jacks. To modify, shorten the protruding center pin so that it extends about 1/8" beyond the outer sleeve of the plug using a fine-toothed hack-saw or hobby saw. De-burr and round off the end. The modified transition will now plug directly into RCA jacks.

Test Set-up and Procedure:

For a direct PL-238 transition, use a scanner adapter plug,

Cut pin here and round off end.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

To test your transceiver, set up as shown in the following diagram. Make sure the pc board is on a clean non-metallic surface free of lead-clippings, hardware, and other conductive debris that could get underneath and cause a short circuit. Before connecting the power supply, make sure the power switch (SW1) and T/R switch (SW2) are in the out position. If you have a station receiver available, place it in the CW mode and tune it to the transceiver's approximate operating frequency. This will enable you to monitor your transmitter's signal during testing. If any of the steps outlined below fail, refer to the "In Case of Difficulty" section of the manual.

Key

Speaker

Key Sp

VXO

ANT

PWR

PWR T/R

Power Supply

Dummy Load

RF Wattmeter

To test the radio outside of a metal case, you'll need to install temporary "ground" or "common" leads for the key and speaker jacks. Use temporary lenghts of hookup wire o r clipleads to make these conne ctions. These may be attached to any convenient point on the pc board ground surface.

1. Install a temporary lead from the key jack "common" tab to pc board ground.

2. Install a temporary lead from the speaker jack "common" tab to pc board ground.

3. Press power switch SW1 to ON.

4. Turn RF Gain R1 fully clockwise--you should hear speaker background noise.

The next steps confirm transmitter operation. If you don't have access to a lowpower RF wattmeter, install a standard 5 mm LED across the antenna jack (J2). Note that the antenna jack must also be terminated with a 50-ohm dummy load-- the LED is not a substitute for a 50-ohm load. When transmitting, the LED should illuminate brightly at 1-2 watts output.

5. Press T/R (transmit/receive) switch (SW2) into the transmit position.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

6. Press the key. The power meter (or LED) should indicate output of 1 watt or more.

7. Release the key--the output power should drop to zero.

If you have a station receiver available, tune it to the transceiver's operating frequency.

8. Set the VXO capacitor (C16) to mid-range.

9. Press the key and tune in the signal on your station receiver.

10. Vary VXO over its range. The signal should shift frequency by several

kHz*.

11. Send a few CW characters. Keying should sound crisp and free of chirp.

12. Release the T/R switch to the receive position.

* The amount of frequency shift you obtain will depend on the band of

operation. While 20-meter VXOs may vary by as much as 9 kHz, 80meter VXOs will vary much less. If you note a "buzz" on the CW note, this may indicate poor power supply filtering--or may simply mean there's a ground-loop in your test set-up that won't affect your on-air signal. Obtain on-air reports to confirm hum or ripple observations.

To complete alignment and check-out, connect a low-VSWR antenna cut for the band of operation (2:1 or less). If you used a LED to test for RF output, remove it at this time. Under normal conditions, you should hear incoming signals with R1 advanced fully clockwise.

13. Using an insulated tuning tool, adjust antenna trimcap C1 for maximum

sensitivity.

If strong signals overload the receiver, reduce R1 for comfortable listening and adjust more closely. The peak should be quite pronounced. Make sure you're peaking on amateur CW signals and not an out-of-band commercial radio station! This concludes the testing phase of construction. If your kit made the grade, you're ready for some serious QRP operating! If it didn't pass, please refer to the "In Case of Difficulty" section for suggestions that may help you isolate and solve the problem.

Sidetone:

generator. To take advantage of this optional feature, obtain and install a lowcost piezo sounder such as the Radio Shack 273-065 (or equivalent). A pc pad for connecting the sounder's (+) lead is provided at "Tone" near Q4. The (-) lead goes to pc-board ground and may be connected at any convenient location. If

Your VEC Q RP transceiver has provisions for po wering a sidetone

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

the sounder you select fails to operate due to low operating voltage, try substituting a lower-value resistor at R10. The sounder may be suspended above the pc board using stiff wire, or mounted at any convenient spot inside the cabinet. Also, it may be possible to lower the sounder's pitch by partially covering the sounder hole with masking tape.

VEC-1300KC Enclosure:

Vectronics makes a custom enclosure especially drilled, punched, and labeled for your kit. If you purchased the VEC-1300KC, now is a good time to install it. Be sure to follow all installation instructions carefully.

Important Note:

Amateur Radio License of General Class or higher to operate a CW transmitter in amateur service.

Federal Law requires that you possess a current FCC-issued

OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS

VXO

ANT

PWR

Connecting Your QRP Transceiver:

Key

Speaker

1. VXO:

Varies oscillator above and below crystal's "cut" frequency.

2. RF Gain:

Adjusts receiver signal levels to a comfortable listening level.

3. Power Switch:

4. T/R Switch:

5. Power Jack:

Selects transmit mode (in) and receive mode (out).

2.1x 5.0-mm, (+) to center (-) to sleeve, 12-14 V @ .5A

6. Antenna Jack:

7. Speaker Jack:

Applies power to the transceiver.

RCA, >1 watt of RF into 50-ohms, 3:1 VSWR or less.

1/4" jack provides speaker or headphone AF output.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

8. Key Jack: Antennas:

1/4" jack accepts manual keys and most electronic keyers.

QRP operation requires a good antenna, but you don't need stacked beams at 100' to get the job done! Most QRP enthusiasts use modest wire antennas that have been carefully installed and tuned for minimum VSWR. It's best to avoid compromised or severely shortened designs along with long lossy feedlines and inefficient matching schemes. Like most of today's solid-state radios, your transceiver uses a no-tune broadba nd output network designed t o match into 50-ohm loads. While it can tolerate a wide range of mismatches, you'll get more usable power and better harmonic filtering with a low VSWR load.

Experience has shown that a full-sized 1/2 wave dipole or sloper installed as high as possible is hard to beat. The fo llowing chart suggests dip ole wire lengths for various CW sub-bands. These dimensions are sensitive to ground conditions and near-by objects, so you may need to prune the length slightly to obtain minimum VSWR at your location. Information is also provided for adding a very low cost "choke" balun to your installation. A balun helps eliminate unwanted feedline radiation on transmit and noise pick-up on receive. Heavyweight or premium cables are not required for QRP stations, and inexpensive RG58 is sufficient to do the job. The lighter your coax, the higher you can pull the center of your antenna.

Length

#14 stranded-copper wire

Balun

Band MHz. Length Per-side

80 3.6 130' 0" 65' 0" 40 7.1 66' 0" 33' 0" 30 10.1 20 14.05

Balun consists of RG58 coiled 10" in diameter and held with tape or plastic tie-wraps

46' 4" 23' 2" 33' 2' 16' 7"

Balun

20' 14' 10' 8'

For additional antenna information on a wide variety of HF antennas, consult the ARRL Antenna Handbook, a publication of the American Radio Relay League in Newington, Connecticut.

QRP Operating Tips:

Most QRP DXers agre e the "hunt-and -pounce" method works best. Rather than spending a lot of time calling CQ, look for other stations calling CQ and answer them. Also, call stations that have just completed a QSO and signed. When you do call CQ, you can usually expect more replies around the QRP calling frequency where operators anticipate weaker signals. Finally, never hesitate to call weak stations--they may also be operating QRP or

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

may simply have poor transmitting antennas! You'll soon discover world-wide QRP contac ts a re rout ine. A gr owing legion o f CW o per ato rs have QRP-D XCC certificates hanging on the wall to prove it!

IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY

Your VEC QRP-CW Transc eiver has be en thoroughl y field-tested and is known to be r eliable and " forgiving" of const ruction e rrors. If you have diffi culty with your unit, the cause may be something as simple as a broken cable or a defective power source. In most cases, you will be able to find the problem with some organized troubleshooting. Begin your search with this checklist of symptoms and remedies:

Does not power up:

cable. Also, check supply polarity, direction of D3, and inspect the fuse trace near J1.

Does not key:

construction errors. Make sure Y1 is installed correctly. Listen for off-air signals in receive mode to confirm that Q1 is oscillating.

Weak Signal, no measurable output:

check polarity of D1 and D2. Vcc should be present on case of Q3.

Low Transmitter Output:

and check number of turns on L4.

Severe chirp or motorboating on signal:

Q4. Check D1 and D2 for incorrect polarity or diode failure.

Transmitter remains on when unkeyed:

check Q4 and transmitter component values.

Receiver insensitive: AM foreign broadcast interference:

station grounding, etc. Turn down R1. Overload by powerful AM shortwave signals may be unavoidable with unidyne detectors under certain extremelystrong signal conditions.

Audio Oscillation:

Also, reduce receiver gain (R1) on extremely strong signals.

Check your key and plug. Also, check circuitry around Q4 for

Check the condition of your power source and connecting

Check for construction errors. Also,

Check transmitter capacitor values against parts list,

Check component values around Q1,

Check polarity of D1,D2. Also,

Check setting of R1, t uni ng of C1, antenna connections.

Check resonant frequency of antenna,

Check component values and capacitor polarity around U2.

VXO cap fails to shift frequency: Blown Crowbar Fuse:

direct short circuit from Vcc to ground on the pc board. The etched copper fuse

Usually caused by reverse power connection or by a

Check L1, C16.

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

may be replace by a small 1-A pigtail fuse or by a short length of #32 enameled wire. Your kit will not power up until this is replaced.

Voltage Analysis:

Voltage analysis is a great way to pinpoint circuit problems. To do this, you'll need a voltmeter or DVM. Clip the black lead (-) to ground and use the red (+) probe to check the DC voltage at each IC or transistor lead. Before making key-down transmitter readings, desolder and remove Y1 from the pc board to prevent the transmitter from generating RF while you're attempting to make DC voltage measurements. Receiver IC readings are made with the unit in receive mode. Compare your readings against the chart below. They should agree within 10-15%. If you observe one or more "bad" readings, this may mean the device you're checking is blown--or that an incorrectly-installed part is lurking near-by. Try using the schematic diagram to trace out the exact cause of the problem.

2N3904-Q1 PN2222-Q2 2N3906-Q4

E B C

Front View

Important Note: Unit must not generate RF during these checks!

8 7 6 5

U1/U2

1 2 3 4

(Emitter is grounded)

(Collector is on Case)

Top View 2N3053

NE602 LM386

U1 U2

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

12345678Pin

1.4 1.4 0 4.7 4.7 5.9 6.05.2

1.4 .02 .01 0 6.7 13.8 7.0 1.4

VOLTAGE CHART

Standby Key-Down EBCEBC 0 0 0 5.7 6.3 12.6

0 13.8

0 0 13.8 0 0 13.8

13.8 13.2 0 13.8 13.0 13.6

.7 7.7

If these checks fail to uncover the problem, repeat the "QC" check one more time. Service records show that, for most malfunctioning kits, outright component failure is relatively rare. In most cases, the culprit is a misplaced part, reverse-polarized capacitor or diode, improperly installed transistor, or a faulty solder connection! If, despite your best effort, you cannot solve a problem with your radio, kit repair services are available through Vectronics. See the warranty on the inside front cover for complete instructions.

THEORY OF OPERATION AND SPECIFICATIONS

The transceiver consists of a simple direct-conversion receiver and a three-stage CW transmitter. Operating frequency is controlled by VXO (variable crystal oscillator) Q1. Q1 is keyed on and off during transmit mode by dc-switch Q4. During receive, it operates at reduced voltage which reduces mixer drive and

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

forces a frequency shift for CW offset. D1 and D2 isolate Q1's +T and +R voltage sources.

The RF input and AF output ports of unidyne detector U1 are configured for differential-mode to enhance common-mode noise rejection and provided highest gain. RF gain control (R1) and high-Q preselector (T1/C1/C2) preceed the mixer input. AF output response is rolled off at high frequencies by C6.

U2 is a two-stage AF-power op-amp configured in high-gain mode by feedback capacitor C7. Loop-gain is further increased in the 600 Hz range by a second frequency-selective feedback network (R3/C11/C12). MUS (minimum usable sensitivity) exceeds 1 uV, while high-frequency AF products are rolled off for QRM reduction. U2 provides over 100-mW AF drive into 8 ohms, which is more than adequate to drive low-Z headphones and 8-ohm extension-type speakers.

In transmit mode, dc-switch Q4 provides shaped keying of VXO Q1 and supplies turn-on bias to driver Q2. PA Q3 operates in class-C and draws current only when RF drive is present. Broadband matching techniques are used to eliminate critical tune-up steps for the builder. A pi-section low-pass filter provides impedance matching and harmonic suppression between Q3 and the 50ohm antenna port. CW output normally exceeds 1 Watt (+30 dBm) with -35 dBc or better harmonic suppression.

For simplicity, transceiver T/R functions are handled by a DPDT switch. A second switch applies power to the radio, and crowbar diode D3 protects transceiver circuitry against accidental reverse-polarity power connection. If "on-board" CW sidetone generation is required, a small powered peizo-sounder may be connected to key-switch Q4 through current-limiting resisto r R10.

Typical Specifications:

RF power output: 1.2 watts @ 14 MHz (may be greater at lower frequencies) Suppression: -35 dBc or better VXO tuning range: 9 kHz typical at 14 MHz (will be less at lower frequencies) VXO T/R offset: 300-500 Hz @ 14 MHz (will be less at lower frequencies) Receiver sensitivity: .3 uV minimum usable signal on all bands Receiver current: 25 mA at 13.8 Volts DC Transmit current: 250-350 mA at 13.8 Volts DC

SCHEMATIC

VEC-1320K/1330K/1340K/1380K Owner's Manual

ENCLOSURE

To install your transceiver in the VEC-1300KC matching enclosure follow these instructions

Find the fron t panel decal and rear p anel decal; separate usin g scissors. Be sure to

Next, install the two L-brackets on the chassis using two of the 3/16" screws. The

Install the four 1/2" mounting screws next. Insert the screws, from the bottom,

Place the four 3/16" round spacers on the mounting screws.

Now insert the PC board. This must be done by:

Use the four hex nuts to secure the PC board. Be certain all appropriate components

Find the knobs and switch caps. Align the red switch cap with SW1 and push it on.

Locate the two 1/4” phone jacks, two silver washers, and two large nuts. Place a

Install the top now. Use the two remaining 3/16" screws for securing the top to the

10.

Finally, place the four rubber feet on the bottom of the enclosure at the corners.

(read all instructions before beginning ... take your time)

leave excess decal material around the edges. Put the rear panel decal on first. This is done by: using a piece of cloth and alcohol. adhesive. Gently rub the alignment circles with your finger--if the circles are centered in the enclosure holes (also check the corner alignment marks) secure the decal by rubbing and removing all air bubbles. decal accordingly, th en secure. away the unused edges (cut from the adhesive side) and cut out the component holes (cut from the description side).

longer side of the L-bracket must be connected to the chassis using the two holes centered on each edge o f the enclosure. Refer to the d iagram on the next page for location and orientation.

through the four holes relatively close to each corner of the chassis.

from R1. respective holes. screws align with the mounting holes in the PC board before pushing.

are centered with the enclosure holes before tightening. Put the washers and nuts-removed from R1--back on and tighten.

Repeat for SW2 with the black switch cap. If the caps are difficult to push on, then rotate them 90° and try again. Now put the knobs on R1 and C16. You may need to loosen the set screw. Align appropriately then tighten the set screws.

washer on the speaker jack and insert into the rear mounting hole labeled SPKR. Put one of the nuts on the jack and tighten. Repeat this process for the key jack and insert into the mounting hole labeled KEY.

L-brackets. Make sure the L-brackets are aligned properly.

a.)

Remove all debris and oil from the chassis. This should be done

b.)

Remove the crack and peel to exp ose the

c.)

Place the decal on the rear panel without securing it completely.

e.)

If the alignment circles are n ot cent ered, adj ust th e

f.)

Use a penknife, or small Exacto

g.)

Repeat this procedure for the front panel.

a.)

Remove the nuts and washers

b.)

Insert the front of the P C board at an angl e so the controls enter their

c.)

Push down on the rear of the board. Make sure the mounting

knife, to cut

d.)

Vectronics VEC-1320K User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual