[TenTec] QRP T-Kits and IC sockets

[Simmons, Reid W]

A recent post plus several previous messages on this subject prompted me 
to post this.

I recently built the 1320 QRP CW transceiver and, contrary to the 
sometimes strongly worded advice against it both in the manual and on 
this list, I USED SOCKETS at EVERY IC LOCATION!  The reasoning behind my 
"outlandish display of rebellious behavior and a total disregard for 
established practice" was that I HATE to unsolder defective ICs, it 
makes experimental substitutions a snap, circuit modifications will be 
far easier, and... because there really is sufficient room on the 
circuit board to do this.

I used the not-so-cheap Radio Shack 8-pin Dip sockets.  Why?  Because RS 
was open late that Friday night and all the other purveyors of 
electronic parts around here had long since closed for the weekend.

Therefore, if your so inclined and experimental of mind, go for it!  My 
1320 works great.  I had no mechanical or performance problems 
associated with the use of these sockets, and the measured performance 
equals or exceeds spec.

This little rig has outstanding receiver performance considering the 
relative simplicity of the circuit.  And the transmitter... well, what 
do you want for only 3 watts?

Reid, K7YX

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