First Wyeast help

[Tobys]

Hi all - I know there are a few threads to this but can't find anything that quite answers my query...

I'm brewing my 1st wheat extract beer using WYEAST 3068 Weihenstephan Weizen Direct Pitch Activator which has a date stamp produced of the 9 Jan 12. The recipe I've been kindly provided (http://jimsbeerkit.co.uk/forum/viewtopi ... =3&t=49295) is for 19L. I'm hoping to brew friday this week.

The advise I hope for is:

1. When should I activate the pack? Any advise on this would be good...
2. I guess I should get a starter going first before adding to the full volume in the fermintation vessel or can I pitch direct? If not how should I make the starter? Volumes, timings, ingredients - DME only?
3. With the pack came an additional clear plastic pouch about 4cmx2cm containing a clear liquid - anyone know what this would be?

Many thanks all....

[zgoda]

I am new to activators too, used only propagators...

My 6 months old London Ale Activator swelled fully in 24 hrs. They write on package that you don't need starter if the gravity is less than 1.060. I'd make starter only if I'm not sure the yeast are healthy, ie was exposed to heat or the like.