Introduction

The K2 is a full-featured HF transceiver with the options you have come to expect from radios costing over twice as much. Two VFOs with multiple memories, split TX/RX operation, RIT/XIT, full break-in CW, memory keyer, narrow IF crystal filtering, excellent RX dynamic range and IF derived AGC are standard on the K2.

Overview

OVERVIEW

Performance: We've designed big rig features and performance into the K2. Eric and Wayne are experienced CW operators, so solid CW performance (in addition to SSB) is a priority with the K2. Excellent sensitivity and dynamic range, Full QSK Break-in (diode switched), adjustable RX/TX CW pitch, High Speed Memory Keyer, Selectable RX Sideband, and Sharp IF Crystal Filtering are standard. Check out our with other radios for more details.

Low Power Consumption

The K2 is designed for use both at home and in the field. The K2’s low receive current (approx. 150 mA in battery save mode) makes portable operation possible from small gel cell batteries. The K2 even includes an option for an internal 2.9-Ah rechargeable battery.

Easy Alignment: No sophisticated test equipment beyond a digital multi-meter is required to align the K2. Our built-in microprocessor and A/D circuitry monitor all important signals and provide user feedback during calibration. They even include a built in general purpose frequency counter, volt meter and radio current drain meter. Our thousands of K2 owners will attest to their success building the K2!

Customizable: We've designed the K2 for easy user modification. All interfaces and signals are fully described in the manual.

Note: This product is a kit which may involve building the product by selecting individual components, soldering them to the circuit board, winding toroids, installing LEDs and displays, calibrating circuits to meet specified performance levels.  

KPA100 Amplifier Notice

After twenty years of offering our kit-builders the KPA100, we have retired the amplifier. Several of the parts needed to build the amp are no longer available.  We will continue to provide support to our KPA100 customers. If you are looking for an amplifier option for your KPA100, please contact .

Packages

K2 Packages 

Specs

SPECS

STANDARD FEATURES

• Rugged, attractive custom enclosure
• Small, portable size: 2.9h x 7.8w x 8.2d inches
• Weight 3.3 lbs. (excluding internal options)
• 80-10 meter ham band+ coverage; 160 m optional
• Efficient 12 Volt (10 - 15 V) operation for home or field
• Receive current as low as 150 mA (battery save mode)
• CW-only or SSB/CW + Digital Modes with SSB option
• Back-lit LCD and LED bargraph; day/night settings
• PLL synthesized--low phase noise
• Microprocessor controlled
• 3 transverter bands; programmable display, I.F., power 
• Dual VFOs with split operation
• Direct keypad entry of frequencies and memory channels
• RIT and XIT with four offset ranges 
• Built-in high-efficiency speaker 
• Memories store mode, VFO A/B, split, RX filter, etc. 
• Simple menu system for advanced settings. (Up to two menu functions can be assigned to the two programmable front panel function keys.) 
• Room for additional connectors on the rear panel 
• Smart ‘hunt and pounce’ band-scanning mode

RECEIVER

• Low-noise, single-conversion superhet receiver
• Double-balanced diode mixer for excellent dynamic range
• Receive sensitivity: 0.15 uV (pre-amp on, typical.)
• Narrow ham-band, double-tuned bandpass
• RX/TX filters, relay switched for better IMD response
• Smooth, fast attack, I.F.-derived AGC (no "popping") 
• Switchable preamp and attenuator
• Variable-bandwidth I.F. crystal filtering
• Multiple VFO tuning rate selections
• 10 Hz tuning resolution
• Bar graph S/RF OUT/ALC meter
• Adjustable squelch 

TRANSMITTER

• Adjustable 0.1-15 W (K2), 0.1 – 100W (K2/100)
• Rugged, SWR-protected, push-pull PA transistors
• Programmable current limit for battery operation
• Harmonics and spurious outputs: Better than –40 dBc 

CW FEATURES

• Full diode switched break-in with variable QSK delay (Both at QRP and 100W levels)
• 9-memory keyer; iambic A and B; adjustable weight
• 9-50 wpm (internal keyer); 70+ wpm (external keying)
• Programmable message repeat interval
• Simultaneous computer and paddle CW keying inputs
• Variable bandwidth crystal filter (approx. 200 - 2000 Hz)
• Adjustable RX CW offset with tracking TX side tone.
• Selectable opposite sideband RX for QRM reduction 

Options/Accessories

Options

ACCESSORIES

• ProSet-K2, Boom Headset 
• MH4-K2, Hand Mic for the K2 
• KRC2 Band Decoder
• KPCA-F Power Cable, assembled
• KUSB USB Serial Adapter Cable
• SS30DV Compact Switching Power Supply

Reviews

REVIEWS

QST Magazine:  "The K2’s receiver performance compares very favorably to that of the samples of the high-end radios we’ve recently examined... The fact that a radio in this price class—and a home-built one at that—can stand proudly in such company is a remarkable accomplishment."  March 2002 QST 

• K2 Review, CQ Magazine, November 2002
• K2 and K2/100 Review from the ARRL NCJ (National Contest Journal, By Rick, N6XI (Mar/Apr. 2003, pdf 270 KB)
• K2 Review from Practical Wireless Magazine (Dec. 2002, PDF)

Manuals

MANUALS & DOWNLOADS

• K2 Owner's, Options and Accessories Manuals
• K2 FAQs 
• Ask Our K2 Tech!
• K2 Mods and Notes
• K2 Logging Programs
• K2 Control & Setup Programs
• K2 Connection Instructions

 Important Note: The KUSB cable cannot be directly plugged into the K2 without damaging components in the K2. A custom-built cable must be placed between any standard RS-232 connection and the K2 Aux I/O connector. This pertains to PCs with existing RS-232 ports, USB to RS-232 converters and our own KUSB cable. Review the K2 Connection Instructions in regards to using the KUSB with the K2.