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Old July 13th 04, 12:08 PM
Jay
 
Posts: n/a
Default Question on Picokeyer & Paddle

Hello,
I am getting back to ham radio and homebrewing (qrp) after many
years. I wanted to start by building the simple low power Picokeyer
given in http://www.arrl.org/qst/2003/12/0312038.pdf
I am currently in India and the MOSFET 2N7000 is not available
here. The article says that I can use a 2N2222 with a current limiting
resistor in the base or emitter. Can anyone help me with what resistor
value to use? Also is there an older MOSFET that I can use instead of
the 2N7000 since a MOSFET inherently uses very low current? Electronic
parts are fairly inexpensive in India but only the older and more
generic/popular ones are available.
Also has anyone enhanced the original software for the picokeyer in
open source/freely available form?

I am also looking around to purchase a good paddle for qrp work
(both qth and mobile) in the USA. I know from my previous stint in the
hobby (qro) that Bencher paddles were just about the best, but they
are also a little pricy - they have gone up 50% since the last time I
checked. Is there a below $100 iambic paddle that is good for home and
mobile use?

Please post your replies.

Thanks & Regards,
Jay
KC5TQS