FINALLY! The #KX2 Has Internal Charging! Elecraft Kit Install!

Published 2023-02-21
For me, there was only one issue with the Elecraft KX2 cementing itself as one of the best QRP radios are on the market. It's lack of ability to charge the internal battery from an external source via the radios power jack. Elecrafts new (KXIBC2) KX2 internal battery charger is out now: elecraft.com/products/kxibc2-kx2-internal-battery-…

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All Comments (21)
  • @w2aew
    I believe those pins in the hardware envelope were actually pin/sockets. The idea being that you would solder those to the RF board, and then the wired pins on the charger board would simply plug-in to these sockets. Thus, the board can be installed/removed in the future without soldering or desoldering.
  • This is super helpful Josh, thank you for showing EVERYTHING, now I know what to expect. Yes very glad about this upgrade.
  • @colby6855
    The KX2 is my favorite radio and I've wanted this feature for years, but that is a lot of money. I think I'll keep swapping batteries or plugging a spare into the side.
  • Thanks for posting this video, Josh. I have the board on order and was grateful to see your experience. It’s for situations like this that I sprang for a desoldering station. I don’t need it often, but when I do it’s a life saver (or, at least a stomach lining saver).
  • @DrChazKL0T
    Ahh memories of making the MARS modification to my Kenwood TH-25AT…then slicing a ribbon cable as I closed up the case. Thanks for illustrating that experts can experience problems, too.
  • Ordered mine Sunday after hearing you mention it awhile back on the podcast.
  • Glad to hear Elecraft finally came out with a solution. I did a similar upgrade years ago with a WindCamp KX2 Shield Kit which also provides internal battery charging capabilities via a dedicated secondary charging port. This requires that you utilize an external power source that has its own lithium charge controller circuit (you can't just plug in any 13.8v power supply into it). The advantage is that the WindCamp KX2 Shield Kit is about $100 less than the Elecraft option.
  • @ubergeek318
    This makes me want a Kx2 even more now. My wallet does not appreciate it.
  • @devinhedge
    I love this video. Ham radio: the only hobby where you get a factory mod and are encouraged to void warranties. 🎉
  • @barrykery1175
    Great instructional video. Thanks for posting. That was my only complaint about the KX2, not being able to charge the battery w/o removing it. Barry, KU3X/QRP
  • @allencb
    The method I used for the E-pin install was to use a jeweler's drill to drill out most (think deep divot) of that solder, then I soldered the pin in place. It has held through 6 SOTA activations and a 4-day camping trip. The KXIBC2 was particularly useful in facilitating charging while at camp (used the 12v socket on my truck). 73 KI4POT
  • Fun crossover to have an LTT video in my feed followed by this video with the LTT screwdriver appearing.
  • @ai5dd
    Thanks, I have this board on the way from Elecraft, even though I have the old original time board. I think it's worth it to charge the internal battery without having to remove it every time. 73/72 de AI5DD Joe P.S. I think it's easier if you removed the side panel to see the pins when you're installing it.
  • When you have a hole that is stubborn and solder wick isn't working add fresh solder to it then solder wick it. Chem Wick solder wick is hands down the best! If your soldering iron is adjustable heat bump it to 700 or 750...
  • Excellent video! Appreciated seeing the installation "warts and all." I learned a lot from watching your technique. One thought/question -- in another video you used ceramic tipped tweezers. (And I immediately ordered a pair for my electronics tool box!) Wonder why you didn't use those when trying to heat the pin and insert in the "E" hole as they would not have conducted heat away as did the metal pliers. Maybe not enough grip with the tweezers?