I would not mind paying for new firmware that increased performance or
functionality. However I do not feel obligated to pay for "bug" fixes. Today
you can upgrade the program in your digital camera by downloading a program
to a memory card, putting the card in the camera and pressing some sequence
of buttons. Upgrade complete! Software defined radios should not be obsolete
until they no longer meet the needs of the customer because of major
technology upgrades. IMO :-)
Bill
KB1LG
-----Original Message-----
From: tentec-bounces@contesting.com [mailto:tentec-bounces@contesting.com]
On Behalf Of Ralph Matheny
Sent: Wednesday, April 16, 2008 2:35 PM
To: Discussion of Ten-Tec Equipment
Subject: Re: [TenTec] Ten-Tec Transceiver Survey
The most significant thing I want from TT in the way of a "new"
transceiver is for them to "finish the job" on the last one I bought from
them.
While my Orion works well, I was "sold" on the concept that there would be
regular upgrades to the tranceiver, mostly in firmware, but the
possibility of hardware upgrades was never ruled out. I expected that,
one by one, the so called "minor" bugs in firmware would be dealt with,
and that the unit would last me many years without another major purchase.
While there has been a "V2" firmware release for Orion it is generally
agreed that it is better in some ways than V1 and inferior in others.
Many bugs live on.
TT had a great concept: the truly upgradable radio. As technology
improves, boards are replaced and firmware is revised. This is what we
did as kids. I had a "basic" receiver when I started as a ham, and as I
learned more I "upgraded" it, with an additional RF stage, filter
or whatever. It makes sense, especially in a day of plug-in boards and
firmware instead of rewiring the radio. There is no valid reason to
replace the case, knobs, etc. in order to have an upgrade in performance.
BTW--I don't mind paying for new firmware. That may have been the flaw in
the TenTec plan when they started with Orion. When there is not a "sale"
involved, there is little reason for any business man to invest resources
in upgrades. Thus, TT releases a "new model" rather than actually
upgrading the last one.
One man's opinion. Hope I don't regret expressing it.....
Ralph Matheny
K8RYU
207 Gibbons Place
Marietta Ohio 45750
mathenyr@marietta.edu
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