Kit Building
Kit building is a fun way to learn the basics of electronics by assembling kits with components like resistors, capacitors, inductors, and transistors.
Kits usually come with all the components you need to complete a project and have a functioning device. Some kits are actual ham radios, and some are "radio-adjacent". These can teach the same skills needed for ham radio DIY projects.
Why build kits?
- To learn how to assemble and solder circuits and electronic components.
- Get radios and accessories for less money and learn better how they work.
What next? If you don't want to build entire radios or accesories, you may be interested in custom circuits, Arduino, or packet
General Ham Resources
Online vendors are the best place to get kits.
Here are a few:
Here is a site where people blog about their kit builds: QRPer Kits
Notice how most of these say QRP? That is because you don't need much power for QRP and the components are smaller and less expensive.
Local Club Activities
RARS has the following opportunities for Kit Building:
- RARS Gathering on the 4th Tuesday of the month
- Several RARS Members have built radio-related kits. Here are some examples:
- Morserino CW keyer
- 40 meter CW transceiver
If you go to the Gathering, ask ahead of time on Discord and they can share their project experience.