[TenTec] TenTec Orion Reliability

[Robert & Linda McGraw K4TAX]

I can understand Tom's concerns.  At the same time it is my belief that
something that is deemed "unreliable" is something that fails frequently or
something that has demonstrated repeated failures.

Actually, in reading about Tom's concerns, this may be a case of software
not performing or causing the Orion to perform up to expectations.  If
operations are "abc" one day and then "acb" the next and then with an
occasional "x" thrown in, this demonstrates some instability in the MP or
the memory.  Typically, memory access speed is a cause for concern when
these events occur.  Perhaps there is a component or components that can be
replaced to cause repeated consistent operations.  Case after case I have
personally witnessed components of the same type, identical for all
purposes, but from different manufacturers, i.e. Toshiba, Futgitsu, TI,
Motorola and such that perform differently although the "specs" are the
same.  This can even extend down to different productions lots of the same
type from the same manufacturer.  Things like this drive us "software nuts"
nuts!

In my case I have a Brand X radio that has been to the manufacturer's
service center some 5 times in the past 18 months.  In each case there was
identified a component fault but never the same component according to them.
This is a case of classic "unreliability" at its finest in my book.  And
yes, the Brand X company has graciously sent me an invoice with each repair.
While I've requested their understanding, they seem very un compassionate to
specifically address my concerns.

And for those that know me personally then you know, and for those that
don't know me, be advised that I worked for a major Japanese electronics
company for some 15+ years.  I have a clue as to their thinking and business
practice.

73
Bob, K4TAX


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "N Kirk Pearson" <nkirkpearson at bresnan.net>
To: <tentec at contesting.com>
Sent: Wednesday, June 30, 2004 8:27 AM
Subject: Re: [TenTec] Orion Reliability was IC-7800 Review


> Bob Henderson wrote:
>
> >Tommy
> >
> >I am always more than a little curious when I read your reports.  You
appear
> >to be very dissatisfied with the reliability of your Orion.
> >
> ><snip> <alot of Snip>
> >
> >
> >
> > I don't care what's going on with the IC-7800...I would like my
> >Orion to be a reliable piece of amateur radio equipment!!!!!
> >
> >Tom - W4BQF
> >_______________________________________________
> >
> >
> It seems that there is an unpardonable sin on this reflector to
> criticize any Ten-Tec product esp. the Orion. I like Ten-Tec alot but
> Tom's complaint sounds reasonable to me. A guy spends 3000+ dollars on a
> radio he wants it to work. I will be leaving this reflector for this
> very reason. I encourage you (Tom) to make use of Ten-Tec's excellent
> service. I have spoken to Paul and others there and without exception
> they have never talked down to me or failed to help with any problem.
> Good luck with your Orion it should be a great radios when it is finished.
> 73, Kirk KI7YY
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