[TenTec] strrange encoder failure

[bob finger]

N8NOV said in part: "Today the PBT/BW rotary encoder apparently failed."

I too have experienced an encoder failure on my Orion.  Mine is almost 
two years old now and recently my B VFO encoder  failed.  I am awaiting 
a replacement from TT.  Good news on mine is the remote pod, set up for 
use as the B VFO allows full functioning, so the Orion continues to 
chase dx, albeit not the way I usually use the remote pod. 

It is I think rare for optical encoders to fail. But not unheard of, and 
surely nothing to be overly concerned about.  Yours at least is still 
under warantee.....Have TT send you a new encoder, or send the Orion 
back to the mothership if you don't want to do the replacement 
yourself.  73 bob de w9ge