..and have some questions:
1) Is there any particular reason why the 2N7000 was chosen over the VN10? The VN10 comes in a number of versions but the only significant difference I can see from the spec sheet is that it has a higher power rating than the 2N7000. Given that a number of constructors say their 2N7000 can get too hot (possibly to the point of self destruction?) the VN10 may at first sight seem a better choice.
2) If R8 can be adjusted to a point where the 2N7000 can self destruct, wouldn't a fixed 1k resistor at the top of R8 or a higher value of R6 stop that? Although I've looked in this group's archives, no one has admitting this has actually ever happened, but it does sound possible and is warned against in the instructions.
3) This is my first project which ventures into the area of amateur radio and computers combined. I was a bit confused by the instructions describing the links to set the speed. I have only just now looked more carefully and realised the pin numbers in the table refer to the pins on the IC. For the 'hard of thinking' like me I thought the labelling of the adjacent six holes had some relevance.
4) The keying of mine goes a bit strange occasionally. It seems there are others on this list who have reported the same problem. Presumably this did not appear on the prototypes otherwise the advice of earthing unused pins would have been given to start with, so what has changed? Does earthing the unused pins always provide the cure?
Apart from some minor issues with the board, (I'll drill out the R8 holes to fit the component properly), it is a neat little kit. And a bargain - especially when development is taken into consideration! Many thanks to all concerned.
Regards,
Ian, G4JQT
