[TenTec] Orion encoders

[Glassrus]

> Every component chosen for use will have some failure rate.  First time 
in my ham career that I have seen an optical encoder actually fail in 
service.  Hope it is also the last.  73 bob de w9ge

I hope so too, but I must report that I have an apparent encoder failure. I
posted the other day that the PBT/BW encoder on my Orion (with less than
fifty hours on it) would only encode up, not down. I called Ten Tec and
explained the problem. I was immediately told that it was most likely the
rotary encoder. I asked if they had seen this problem before, but got an
evasive answer. As the unit is under warrantee, and as I was told that it is
a pain in the hind quarters to replace, I shipped the monster back to the
place of its birth. Hopefully I will see it again before the Autumnal
Equinox.

I wonder if we will see more failures of encoders, or if the Rubin Curse has
once again visited my doorstep, blessing me with the failure of a part that
should never fail.

Your encoders may vary,
Paul Rubin N8NOV
Houston, TX