I’m trying to build up my kit building skills and started with this Vectronics Comprehensive Soldering Course:
This professional-grade soldering course was designed for schools and individuals. Includes theory, quizzes, PC board and components for soldering practice. Taking this course will result in professional soldering skills and fun blinking LED project. This course covers all of the latest tools, techniques and materials you’ll need for “through-hole” style PC board assembly and repair.
When you complete this course you’ll be ready to tackle a wide range of jobs on the bench and in the field. Short, concise lessons cover topics like solders and fluxes, product safety, soldering irons, circuit boars, and much more.
Skill Level: Simple – Calls for a few basic tools — a soldering iron, cutters, pliers, wire-strippers and a small screwdriver.
Note: This is merely the kit. If you would like to purchase a case for your electronic kit as well, you will need to purchase it separately.
…. it took me about three hours to put it together and now I feel a lot more confident with the soldering iron. I attached the battery and the lights started blinking, always a good sign. 🙂
My next kit attempt will be Ten Tec’s 40M QRP CW transceiver kit:
Ten-Tec began in 1968 with the release of very inexpensive “QRP” transceiver kits. We thought it would be fun to revisit those roots. We explored today’s RF technology and components to see just how inexpensive, compact, and simple a quality QRP kit rig could be. The low price and great receiver design make these QSK VFO-controlled transceivers a great choice. Get on the air from anywhere!
The model 1340 40 meter QRP transceiver was reviewed by ARRL in the September 1998 issue of QST.
Good site here for assembly tips: http://www.io.com/~n5fc/tt1340.html
This kit will be much more complicated and take a lot longer. I’m going to take it slow – wish me luck.