Why "highly recommended"?
Submitted by N1AIA on September 10, 2006 - 22:40.
NEScaf Discussion
Why do the NEScaf instructions highly recommend IC sockets? Seems I often see the opposite recommendation, unless there's a potential need to replace the IC -- my K1's PIC comes to mind.
I have some 8-pin sockets in the junk box, but I'm without a 20-pin so my building's been delayed. Note: That's not my only excuse for slow progress. I have several. So no worries -- just curiosity.
Why sockets?
Submitted by N1RX on September 11, 2006 - 11:15.
Sockets are a good idea at audio frequencies. They can be a problem in RF circuits. It is also much easier to replace an IC in a socket if it should fail due to 'user error' (i.e. IC installed backwards, reverse polarity of power connection, accidental short circuit while troubleshooting, etc.)
Elecraft uses sockets for all their MCU/PIC chips, because this makes firmware upgrades easier.
-Bruce
IC sockets
Submitted by W2BPI on September 12, 2006 - 08:41.
I agree it is not fun removing faulty IC from pcb. I did not have the 10 pin socket either and could not wait to buy one so I used 2 1/2 8 pin sockets. It worked OK. You just need to be sure each piece is down on pcb tight. 73 George/W2BPI
why sockets?
The kit can certainly be built without sockets. It seemed to Dennis and I that building (soldering) and debugging would be easier if it was possible to remove the ic. I assume that the K1 folks are concerned about good contact in the socket? I personally have never had trouble with that, but then I don't have to deal with the volume that Elecraft does (and they are bright folks).
In the proto build, I watched Dennis fabricate a 20 pin socket out of 16 pin sockets. It worked, but not necessarily recommended. Jer (aa1of?) reported that they are available in his local RadioShack (in rural upstate NH).