Vectronics VEC-1002K 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 installing and soldering parts, you essentially take over the role of the device's
manufacturer. From this point on, neither Vectronics nor its dealers can reasonably be held
accountable for the quality 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 builder, we urge you to read the manual
carefully and determine whether or not you're ready to take on the job. If you wish to change
your mind and return your kit, you may--but you must do it before you begin construction, and
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 Vectronics, please look carefully to confirm you haven't misread
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 are rare. However, if you discover an item during your pre-construction
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 defective and appears 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 track.
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, technicians are available to evaluate and repair malfunctioning 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 fix (or $36.00, subject to change), our technicians will contact you in
advance by telephone before performing the work. Defective units should be shipped prepaid
to:
Vectronics
1007 HWY 25 South
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 and a day time phone number where you may be reached.

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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INTRODUCTION
If you ever wanted to get into ham radio, here's the perfect way to get started!
Building the VEC-1002K is a great "hands-on" way to acquire important
technical and radio-communication skills you'll need as a radio amateur. For
example, you'll discover how to identify common electronic components and
read their electrical values. You'll learn how to read pictorial diagrams and
install parts on a printed circuit board. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of
knowing you built it yourself! Detailed step-by-step assembly instructions guide
you through each stage of construction, and clearly-presented alignment
procedures ensure top performance without need for expensive test equipment.
Once construction is complete, you'll enjoy countless hours listening as licensed
operators communicate 100 miles or more using FM-repeater stations.
According to training experts, monitoring VHF repeater activity before you get
your license helps you learn "ham lingo" and master radio procedures while you
study for your test. Listening also introduces you to other radio enthusiasts in
your community--and helps you to stay motivated while hitting the books. Best
of all, once the license arrives, you'll conquer mike fright easily because you'll
know exactly what to say!
When it comes to pulling in weak signals, the VEC-1002K rivals many
commercially-built transceivers. In addition, its electronic tuning control covers
only those frequencies where FM repeaters operate. And, just like a professional
transceiver, the VEC-1002K gives you a highly-effective adjustable squelch to
eliminate background noise between transmissions. The VEC-1002K consumes
minimal electrical current and can run for many hours from its self-contained 9-
volt flat-pack alkaline battery. Plug in a 8-ohm speaker or use headphones for
loud-and-clear reception. All circuitry is self-contained on a rugged 3" x 3.2" pc
board.
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES
Construction Area: Kit construction requires a clean, smooth, and well-lighted
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, while providing protection for the underlying table or desk. Well-
diffused overhead lighting is a plus, and a supplemental high-intensity desk lamp
will prove especially helpful for close-up work. Safety is an important
consideration. Be sure to use a suitable high-temperature stand for your
soldering iron, and keep the work area free of combustible clutter.

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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Universal Kit-building Tools: Although your particular kit may require
additional items to complete, 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)
!Needle Nose Pliers or Surgical Hemostats
!Diagonal Cutters or "Nippy Cutters"
!Solder Sucker, Vacuum Pump, or Desoldering Braid
!Bright Desk Lamp
!Magnifying Glass
Special tool for this kit:
!6-32 screw, at least 3/4" long, for winding coils.
!Insulated hex-head tuning wand.
!Small flat-blade screwdriver or tuning wand.
!Voltmeter, digital or analog.
!Two-meter antenna to receive off-air signals.
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: It always pays to double-check each step. A 1K
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 one
marked 103 (or .01uF).
2. Installing Parts Backwards: Always check the polarity of electrolytic
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!

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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3. Faulty Solder Connections: Inspect for cold solder joints and solder
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: This is easier to do than you might think!
Always double-check to make sure you completed each step in an assembly
sequence.
Soldering Tips: Cleanliness and good heat distribution are the two secrets of
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
ensure maximum heat transfer. Allow the tip of your iron to contact both the
lead 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: If you make a mistake and need to remove a part, follow
these instructions carefully! First, grasp the component with a pair or 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 board with plate-through holes. Should this happen, try heating 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: Kit construction requires the ability to follow detailed
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: The electrical value of resistors is indicated by
a color code (shown in the following chart). You don't have to memorize this
code to work with resistors, but you do need to understand how it works:

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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1st Digit
2nd Digit
Multiplier
Tolerence
Black = 0 (tens)
Brown = 1 (hundreds)
Red = 2 (K)
Orange = 3 (10K)
Yellow = 4 (100K)
Green = 5 (1Meg)
Blue = 6
Violet = 7
Gray = 8
White = 9
Silver = 10%
Gold = 5%
Resistor Color Code
(gold or silver)
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
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: Unlike resistors, capacitors no longer use a color code for
value identification. Instead, the value, or a 3-number code, is printed on the
body.
Multilayer
271
(270 pF)
Ceramic Discs
|
|
1uF
35V
+
-
104
Electrolytic
1 uF
10 pF = 100
100 pF = 101
1000 pF = 102
.001 uF = 102*
.01 uF = 103
.1 uF = 104
Value Code
102
(.001 uF) (.1 uF)
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

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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confused by markings on the case, remember the uncut negative lead is slightly
shorter than the positive lead.
Diodes: Diodes are also polarized devices that must be installed correctly.
Always look for the banded or cathode end when installing, and follow
instructions carefully.
Cathode
Diode LED
(shorter Lead)
Transistors: If transistors are installed incorrectly, damage may result when
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
Flat Side
Metal Tab
Metal Can Device Plastic Device Tab-cooled Device
Integrated Circuits: Proper IC positioning is indicated by a dot or square
marking located on one end of the device. A corresponding mark will be silk-
screened 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 counter-
clockwise around the device, as shown:
1 2 3 4
8 7 6 5
Installation
Key
Key
Installation
Pin Numbers
PARTS LIST
Your kit should contain all of the parts listed below. Please identify and
inventory each item on the checklist before you start building. If any parts are
missing or damaged, refer to the manual's warranty section for replacement

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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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.
Resistors:
"Qty Part Description Designation
!1 22 ohm (red, red, black) R3
!1 270 ohm (red, violet, brown) R4
!1 470 ohm (yellow, violet, brown) R2
!2 2.2K (red, red, red) R11,R14
!2 4.7K (yellow, violet, red) R7,R17
!2 10K (brown, black, orange) R5,R18
!2 39K (orange, white, orange) R12,R15
!1 47K (yellow, violet, orange) R8
!4 100K (brown, black, yellow) R1,R9,R13,R19
!2 10K potentiometer R6,R16
!1 100K potentiometer R10
Capacitors:
"Qty Part Description Designation
!1 2.2 pF disc ceramic (2.2C) C3
!8 .1 uF disc ceramic (104) C10,C11,C12,C21,C22,
C24,C26,C29
!1 .05 uF disc ceramic (503) C27
!1 6.8 pF disc ceramic (6.8J or 6.8C) C5
!1 4.7 pF disc ceramic (4.7J or 4.7C) C1
!5 .001 uF disc ceramic (102) C6,C13,C14,C25,C32
!2 1 uF electrolytic C23,C28
!2 10 uF electrolytic C30,C31
!2 100 uF electrolytic C8,C9
!2 15 pF multilayer (15 or 150) C17,C18
!1 18 pF multilayer (18 or 180) C19
!2 27 pF multilayer (27 or 270) C2,C4
Capacitors cont.
"Qty Part Description Designation
!1 56 pF multilayer (56 or 560) C20
!1 100 pF multilayer (101) C7
!2 470 pF multilayer (471) C15,C16

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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Semiconductors:
"Qty Part Description Designation
!1 5.1 volt zener diode, 1N751A D1
!1 2SC2498 transistor Q1
!1 MC13135 IC (24 pin) U1
!1 MC34119 IC (8 pin) U2
Inductors/Filters/Crystals
"Qty Part Description Designation
!3 12" length of #24 coil wire For L1,L2,L3
!1 .074 uH slug-tuned, shielded (red) L4
!1 660 uH adjustable, shielded (black) L5
!1 10.245 crystal Y1
!1 10.7 MHz ceramic filter (SFE10.7J) FL1
!1 455 KHz ceramic filter (55D or 55F) FL2
Switches/Jacks/Misc.
"Qty Part Description Designation
!1 DPDT push-button power switch SW1
!1 RCA phono jack, pc-mounted J1
!1 3.5mm stereo jack (mini-jack) J2
!1 8-pin IC socket (for U2)
!1 24-pin IC socket (for U1)
!1 9-volt battery snap clip
!1 plastic cable tie
!1 PC board for VEC-1002K
!1 VEC-1002K Owner's Manual

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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Generally, it's easier to install small close-to-the-board parts first, and then
mount larger stand-up parts second. Delicate parts, such as air-wound coils, go
on the PC board last.
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.
We'll begin with the IC sockets.
Phase 1: IC Sockets
Important Note:If you do not wish to use sockets with your kit, you may omit
them and mount the ICs directly into the board (an option experienced builders
may prefer). Sockets make IC removal easier in the event of an installation error
or component failure. If you elect to omit the sockets, mount both IC's with their
keyed end toward the left-hand side of the PC board--as indicated by the silk-
screen legend.
!!1. Position the circuit board so J1, J2 and the mounting holes for
integrated circuit U2 are toward the rear. Find the 8-pin IC socket
and, if necessary, straighten any bent pins.
!!2. Position the 8-pin socket at U2 with its "notch" or "key" toward the
left-hand side of the PC board. Carefully insert the socket (without
soldering).
!!3. Turn the board over and inspect U2's pads. All 8 socket pins should
protrude through. If any do not, remove the socket, unfold the bent
pin (or pins), and reinsert. Solder in place.
!!4. Find the 24-pin IC socket and, using the procedure outlined above,
install at U1 with the key toward the left side of the board. Solder.
!!5. Inspect the pads under both sockets carefully for solder bridges and
cold-solder joints, correcting any problem areas before moving on.
Phase 2: Resistors
The kit has 16 fixed-value resistors. We'll mount these now, starting with the
smallest value and moving to the largest. Before mounting each one, carefully
bend both leads close to the resistor body to form right-angles, as shown :
.4"
!!1. Find a 22 ohm resistor (red-red-black). Install at R3 and solder.
!!2. Find a 270 ohm resistor (red-violet-brown). Install at R4 and solder.

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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!!3. Find a 470 ohm resistor (yellow-violet-brown). Install at R2 and
solder.
!!4. Find two (2) 2.2K ohm resistors (red-red-red). Install one at R11 and
solder.
!!5. Install a 2.2K resistor (red-red-red) at R14 and solder.
!!6. Find two (2) 4.7K resistors (yellow-violet-red). Install one at R7 and
solder.
!!7. Install a 4.7K resistor (yellow-violet-red) at R17 and solder.
!!8. Find two (2) 10K resistors (brown-black-orange). Install one at R5
and solder.
!!9. Install a 10K resistor (brown-black-orange) at R18 and solder.
!!10. Find two (2) 39K resistors (orange-white-orange). Install one at R12
and solder.
!!11. Install a 39K resistor (orange-white-orange) at R15 and solder.
!!12. Find a 47K resistor (yellow-violet-orange). Install at R8 and solder.
!!13. Find four (4) 100K resistors (brown-black-yellow). Install one at R1
and solder.
!!14. Install a 100K resistor (brown-black-yellow) at R9 and solder.
!!15. Install a 100K resistor (brown-black-yellow) at R13 and solder.
!!16. Install a 100K resistor (brown-black-yellow) at R19 and solder.
This completes installation of the 16 fixed-value resistors (three variable
resistors will be installed later). Take a moment to confirm each one is
positioned in the right location on the PC board.
Phase 3: Disc Ceramic Capacitors
Next, we'll install the kit's 17 disc ceramic capacitors. All capacitors should be
seated as close to the board as possible.
!!1. Find a 2.2 pF disc ceramic capacitor (2.2). Install at C3 and solder.
!!2. Find a 4.7 pF disc ceramic capacitor (4.7). Install at C1 and solder.
!!3. Find a 6.8 pF disc ceramic capacitor (6.8). Install at C5 and solder.
!!4. Find five (5) .001 uF disc ceramic capacitors (102).
!!5. Install and solder a .001 uF at C6.
!!6. Install and solder a .001 uF at C13

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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!!7. Install and solder a .001 uF at C14
!!8. Install and solder a .001 uF at C25
!!9. Install and solder a .001 uF at C32
!!10. Find a .05 uF disc ceramic capacitor (503). Install at C27 and solder.
Two holes are provided on the ground foil side of the cap. Choose the
one that offers best spacing for the capacitor provided in your kit.
!!11. Find eight (8) .1 uF disc ceramic capacitors (104).
!!12. Install and solder a .1 uF at C10
!!13. Install and solder a .1 uF at C11
!!14. Install and solder a .1 uF at C12
!!15. Install and solder a .1 uF at C21
!!16. Install and solder a .1 uF at C22
!!17. Install and solder a .1 uF at C24
!!18. Install and solder a .1 uF at C26
!!19. Install and solder a .1 uF at C29
Phase 4: Multilayer Capacitors
There are 9 multilayer capacitors provided with your kit.
Important Note:A multilayer capacitor is similar to a surface-mount "chip"
capacitor, except that it has a lead spot-welded onto each end of the capacitor
body. Multilayers have superior operating characteristics, but the lead welds
may fail if the device is over-stressed. 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!
Incorrect Ooops! Correct
!!1. Find two (2) 15 pF multilayer capacitors (15 or 150). Install one at
C17 and solder.
!!2. Install a a 15 pF multilayer capacitor at C18 and solder.
!!3. Find a 18 pF multilayer capacitor (18 or 180). Install at C19 and
solder.

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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!!4. Find two (2) 27 pF multilayer capacitors (27 or 270). Install one at C2
and solder.
!!5. Install a 27 pF multilayer capacitor at C4 and solder.
!!6. Find a 56 pF multilayer capacitor (56 or 560). Install at C20 and
solder.
!!7. Find a 100 pF multilayer capacitor (101). Install at C7, spreading the
leads before inserting to accommodate wider pin spacing (this spacing
is due to a PC track running between the pads on the bottom side of
the board). Solder.
!!8. Find two (2) 470 pF multilayer capacitors (471). Install one at C15,
spreading the leads for wider spacing (as described above). Solder.
!!9. Install a 470 pF multilayer capacitor at C16 and solder.
This completes installation of the 9 multilayer caps. Remember to take frequent
breaks while building your kit to avoid fatigue.
Phase 5: Electrolytic Capacitors
The last six (6) capacitors in the kit are electrolytic capacitors. Electrolytic caps
are polarized and must be installed the correct way in order to work. Each
capacitor's plus (+) mounting holes are 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.
!!1. Find two (2) 1 uF electrolytic capacitors. Install one at C23, observing
polarity, and solder.
!!2. Install a 1 uF electrolytic capacitor at C28 and solder.
!!3. Find two (2) 10 uF electrolytic capacitors. Install one at C30 and
solder.
!!4. Install a 10 uF electrolytic capacitor at C31 and solder.
!!5. Find two (2) 100 uF electrolytic capacitors. Install one at C8 and
solder.
!!6. Solder the remaining 100 uF cap at C9.
This completes installation of all capacitors. Before moving on to the next phase
of construction, check the polarity of each electrolytic one more time to confirm
all six are installed correctly.
Phase 6: Semiconductors

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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!!1. Find the 1N751 zener diode--the only diode supplied with the kit.
Like electrolytic capacitors, zener diodes are polarized and work only
when installed one way. Diode polarity is indicated by the black band
located at one end of the glass body.
!!2. Install the 1N751 at D1 so the banded end corresponds with the band
marked on the PC board (toward U1). Solder.
!!3. Locate Q1, a 2SC2498 plastic transistor.
Important Note:Preamp transistor Q1 is a rugged bipolar device with immunity
to damage from static discharge. However, if you are working in a carpeted
area, it's always a good practice to touch a metal ground before handling
semiconductors.
!!4. Note that Q1 has a round and a flat side. Carefully insert the three
leads of Q1 into the three mounting holes provided. Make sure that
the transistor body is properly keyed to the silk-screened outline--if
you insert the transistor incorrectly, it may be damaged when power is
applied. To ensure stable preamp operation and best gain, the body of
Q1 should sit as close to the PC board as possible. If needed, gently
pre-form the leads so the bottom of the transistor is positioned
approximately .15" (or 1/8") above the surface of the board. Long
leads may impair performance.
2SC2498
(C2498)
!!5. Once you're satisfied Q1 is mounted properly, solder in place.
Phase 7: Jumper Wires
Your kit has five (5) jumper wires to install. Each should be pre-formed from a
bare length of discarded component lead, as shown below. The approximate
distance between mounting holes is given to help you pre-form each one. When
installed, each jumper should lay flat against the PC board.
span discarded lead end
!!1. Make a jumper with a .2" span. Install at JMP1 and solder.

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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!!2. Make a jumper with a .275" span. Install at JMP2 and solder.
!!3. Make another jumper with a .275" span. Install at JMP3 and solder.
!!4. Make a jumper with a .3" span. Install at JMP4 and solder.
!!5. Make a second jumper with a .3" span. Install at JMP5 and solder.
Congratulations--you've installed most of the "small stuff", and you're well on
the way to completing the kit! Now, we'll begin installing larger and taller
components, and your receiver will take shape more rapidly!
Phase 8: Miscellaneous Items
!!1. Locate the 10.7 MHz ceramic filter FL1 (10.7J). This device looks
something like a square disc ceramic capacitor with three pins on the
bottom. FL1 is not polarized, and it can be installed either way.
Install and solder in place.
!!2. Locate the 455 KHz ceramic filter FL2 (55D or 55F). This is a small
black cube with three pins, and it will only fit one way on the PC
board. Install and solder.
!!3. Find the 3.5 mm stereo mini-headphone jack. Install at J2, making
sure it is fully seated and level. Solder.
!!4. Find the RCA "phono" type jack. Install at J1, making sure it is fully
seated and level. Solder.
!!5. Locate push-button power switch SW1. Install and check seating
before soldering.
!!6. Locate Y1, a 10.245 MHz crystal. Install and solder.
The front-panel controls (tuning, squelch, volume) are mounted next. Before
installing these parts, 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 each pot prior to installation.
Rear pins use rear holes. Front pins use front holes.
Nip off tab. Nip off tab.

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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!!7. Locate two (2) 10K potentiometers. Install one at R6 (tuning), making
sure the pot is firmly seated before soldering in place.
!!8. Install the second 10K pot at R16 (volume), checking seating before
soldering.
!!9. Find the 100K pot. Install at R10 (squelch), check seating, and solder.
Phase 9: Coils
!!1. Find the .074 uH slug-tuned coil with a red form (144-Coilcraft). This
will be installed at L4. Before installing, make sure the coil's two pins
and two shield-can tabs are straight and aligned with the mounting
holes. Install, and bend the shield-can tabs over to hold the can in
place before soldering.
!!2. Find the 660 uH quadrature detector coil (five pins, black coil form).
Make sure all pins and tabs are straight before installing. Install at L5,
bending over the shield-can tabs before soldering in place.
The last three coils in your radio are air-wound types made from the #24 wire
supplied with your kit. In addition to the #24 wire, you'll also need a 6-32 screw
at least 1/2" long to use as a winding form (longer is better).
!!3. Carefully straighten the coil wire (drawing it over a plastic rounded
surface such as a screwdriver handle works well). Remove all bends
and kinks. Cut two (2) lengths about 5" long each.
!!4. Take one length of wire and, while grasping both ends firmly,
carefully wind four (4) full turns over the winding form--as shown.
The wire should conform into the thread grooves.
6-32 screw thread
4-turns #24 enameled wire
1/2" leads stripped
and tinned with solder
!!5. Remove the coil by unscrewing it from the 6-32 threads. Shape as
shown above, with about 1 wire-width spacing between each turn.
!!6. Each lead must be tinned prior to installation. The wire provided with
your kit is coated with enamel insulation formulated to melt at high
temperatures. This quality should allow you to strip, clean, and "tin"
each coil lead in a single operation. To prepare each lead, hold a hot
soldering iron tip against it for several seconds while applying a small

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
16
amount of solder. Eventually, the enamel insulation should begin
breaking down, allowing solder to coat and adhere to the wire (it may
be easier to perform this operation with the coil threaded onto the
screw). If your soldering iron doesn't generate enough heat to start the
enamel stripping process, scrape the enamel away with an Exacto
knife before tinning. Make sure both leads are clean and brightly
tinned all the way around before installing.
!!7. When the first 4-turn coil is prepared as shown, install at L1 and
solder. Check coil shape and spacing before moving on.
!!8. Repeat the previous operation, installing and soldering a second 4-turn
coil at L2.
!!9. Using the remaining wire, wind a 10-turn coil for L3. Unlike L1 and
L2, the turns of L3 should be compressed closely so the overall coil is
about .3" in length--about the distance between its mounting holes.
Install and solder.
Phase 10: Completing Construction
!!1. Install the 9-volt battery snap. The red lead is installed at +9V, and
the black at GND. Solder in place.
!!2. Stress relief is provided to prevent battery leads from flexing and
eventually breaking at their connection point. Find a hole part-way
back on the left edge of the PC board Use the plastic tie-wrap
provided in your kit to secure the battery leads in place, as shown in
the following diagram. Insert the tie-wrap through the hole, close it
over the wires, and pull tight. Nip off the excess end.
Tie-wrap
black
+
red
SW1
Push-rod
Now, all that remains is to install U1 and U2 in their sockets. Before doing this,
inspect both devices carefully and straighten any bent or crooked pins. Use

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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extreme care during insertion, and move slowly. It's very easy to miss a socket
opening and fold a pin underneath the body of the IC.
!!3. Find U2, a MC34119 8-pin gated audio amplifier IC. Position the
keyed (or notched) end of U2 toward the left side of the board, so it
coincides with the key in the socket. Install, checking carefully that all
8 pins enter their respective socket openings.
!!4. Repeat the above procedure with U1, the MC13135 24-pin NBFM
dual-conversion receiver IC. The keyed end of this chip also goes
toward the left-hand side of the board, matching the key on the socket.
Install and check pin insertion carefully.
This concludes the construction phase of your receiver. You deserve a break!
When you come back, be ready to give your work a thorough "QC" quality
control check before moving on to the testing and alignment section.
TESTING AND ALIGNMENT
PC Board Inspection:
Even the most experienced builders make mistakes! Before applying power to
your kit, give it a thorough 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 joints 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.
!Finally, check all electrolytic capacitors and diodes for correct polarity.
Does the plus (+) polarity symbol on the part agree with the pictorial and
with the silk-screen pattern on the PC board? Is the banded end of each
diode positioned correctly? Also, were your ICs installed so the dot or
notch on the plastic case corresponds with the white dot or marking on the
PC board? Was Q1 installed correctly?
Be sure to correct all errors before moving on. If a careful inspection revealed
that everything is A-OK, you're now ready for the moment of truth!

VEC-1002K Owner's Manual 2 Meter FM Receiver Kit
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Initial Checkout:
To check out your kit you'll need a 9-volt flat-pack type alkaline battery and a 8-
ohm extension speaker (or monaural headphones) outfitted with a 3.5-mm mini
plug. Make sure the radio's power switch is OFF (button out) before loading the
battery. Plug in speaker or phones and turn all potentiometer controls fully
counter-clockwise.
1. Apply power (button in).
2. Turn up
VOLUME (right-hand pot) clockwise. You should hear a rushing
sound, indicating the receiver and audio amplifier are functioning properly.
3. Slowly advance the SQUELCH (center pot) clockwise. The rushing sound
should stop abruptly around mid-range, indicating the squelch circuit is
working.
If your radio passed its turn-on test, congratulations! You're well on your way to
success, and ready for pre-alignment.
If your radio didn't pass the turn-on test, don't despair. Odds are, you've
overlooked something minor that's easy to correct. Take a break, come back
fresh, and carefully repeat the QC inspection. If no undiscovered errors turn up
during your second inspection, proceed to the "In Case of Difficulty" section of
this manual for troubleshooting advice.
Pre-Alignment:
You'll need the following items to adjust your receiver:
•6-32 screw, at least 3/4" long, to check the shaping of L1, L2.
•Insulated hex-head tuning wand to adjust L4.
•Small flat-blade screwdriver or tuning wand to adjust L5.
•Voltmeter, digital or analog, to adjust L5.
•Two-meter antenna to receive off-air signals.
The instructions below describe how to pre-adjust each of the radio's coils for a
ballpark setting. This procedure will make final alignment easier.
1. Make sure the unit is off via the OFF/ON switch.
2. Locate coils L1 and L2. Thread a 6-32 screw inside the windings of each
coil to check for sizing and spacing. If each winding conforms to the 6-32
diameter and thread-pitch, the coil is wound correctly. If not, make any
needed adjustments. Spread the turns so they are exactly 1 wire-width apart.