[TenTec] Re: Orion...

[John Clifford]

Hello Scott,

Thanks for the information.  This sounds like a radio that I would be
interested in to replace/augment my Omni VI/Opt 1.

Some suggestions... please consider changing the entire paradigm of the
typical screen UI as is currently found on the Jupiter/IC746/IC756.  I'd
like to see someone (Ten-Tec) show some imagination by having an 'analog'
mode with a 'slide rule'-type display for each band.  Provide band plan
information (voice/data/cw subband info), and allow the user to optionally
limit his ability to transmit depending upon his license class.  (These
features are found in the N4PY software, and should be added to the screens
on both the Jupiter and the new Orion, IMO).  Ideally you would have a
bandplan configuration file that could be updated on a PC and then
downloaded to the rig.

I don't want silly bitmaps like the new 756 Pro II, but I do want better
fonts for the LCD display, (fixed pitch, so the main band and sub band freqs
line up and don't fatigue the eye), more 'gauge'-like indicators rather than
digital numbers for things like SWR, power, current draw, etc. (with the
ability to switch to a precise digital readout for any of these
measurements).

I'd like the ability to monitor my output signal for quality with a
scope-like display so I can check IMD and distortion on SSB or the HF
digital modes.

I think that a color display is almost critical, since color can be used to
provide information at a glance, such as excessive SWR, power levels, etc.
A color LCD would not add much to the price of the rig and would greatly
increase its appeal, IMO (cf. the 756 Pro and Pro II).

Keep the case metal... most of the YaeComWood rigs have plastic cases which
are, for me, unappealing in a high dollar rig.

Note that the HF digital modes are increasing in popularity, and give the
user the ability to switch off the front mic connector in certain modes
(when he is running audio to the rear audio input).  Ideally, remove the
need for an external interface (i.e., RigBlaster) by having the necessary
isolation, etc., built into the rig and accessible via a multi-pin plug that
comes out to RCA or 1/8" jacks (include this DIN-to-RCA adapter with the
radio).  Allow the user to control the rig via computer while simultaneously
having the ability to control PTT via DTR/RTS.

Figure out a way to allow the user to combine PBT with variable bandwidth
tuning/continuously adjustable filtering so he can select a signal anywhere
in the passband and then shrink the passband down to just that signal.

These features would, IMO, make the new Orion the King of the Hill.

 - jgc

John Clifford KD7KGX

Heathkit HW-9 WARC/HFT-9/HM-9
Elecraft K2 #1678 /KSB2/KIO2/KBT2/KAT2/KNB2/KAF2
                  ...waiting _eagerly_ for KPA2!
Ten-Tec Omni VI/Opt1

email: kd7kgx@arrl.net