Elecraft KX2 Anderson PowerPole Adapter

thingiverse

This is a PowerPole adapter for the Elecraft KX2 Radio that securely attaches your power cable to the radio, keeping narrow gauge wire lengths as short as possible. It safeguards the power plug, prevents accidental shorting, and keeps the power cord from getting lost - all without interfering with any other radio function. This adapter is designed to be compatible with: - The stock KX2 radio - Radios with custom end panels; in particular, the Side KX end panels - The Side KX clear lexan lid - Any KX2 heat sink - The Side KX car mount lexan adapter (see photo) THIS ADAPTER MAY NOT WORK WITH ANY OTHER 3rd PARTY AFTER-MARKET UPGRADE. To build this adapter, you will need: 1. Your 3D printed shell 2. A stock power cord from Elecraft, DigiKey, etc. 3. An Anderson PowerPole (15amp or 30amp) 4. A #4 x 3/8" machine screw Construction Steps: 1. Cut the power cord to length using a cutting jig 3D printed part. 2. Separate the two wire strands and strip ~5/16" (7mm) of insulation from the ends 3. Crimp or solder the bare wire ends into the PowerPole center contacts; crimping is preferred if you have access to the proper crimper... 4. Insert the PowerPole center contacts into the plastic shells, ensuring that the black and white wire goes into the red shell and the solid black wire goes into the black shell 5. Test continuity and polarity; if you don't understand what this means or how to do it, consider purchasing a pre-assembled unit (see below) 6. Carefully insert the cable and PowerPole assembly into the plastic shell; this is not easy due to intentionally tight tolerances To screw the adapter to the KX2: 1. Open the radio as if changing batteries 2. Locate the nylon nut and screw closest to the power socket and remove them, holding the nut with pliers or a tool 3. Insert the PowerPole adapter assembly into the power socket and ensure the screw hole on the adapter aligns with the screw hole in the side panel 4. Insert the #4-3/8" screw through the adapter and side panel and install the nylon nut 5. Reassemble the case A completely assembled and tested item can be purchased here: https://stores.ebay.com/n0wlradio