[TenTec] The future of The Orion I

[K4IA@aol.com]

Incredible, - for want of a $9 part a $4000+ radio becomes obsolete and  
maybe even un-repairable!
 
In this case, there has already been a post (from TT?) pointing out the "no  
longer recommended" message on the O2 Dragonball is misleading.  This  
particular part number is being phased out in favor on a new one of the same  design 
that does not contain lead solder - a capitulation to the Europeans who  have 
banned lead.  But for Orion 1 owners, it is a real problem if the O1  
Dragonball is no longer available.  If I wanted to "mothball" a  processor for future 
repair of my Orion, should I get one and will TT reprogram  it for me?  
Seriously for $9, I just might want to buy one and stick it in  the drawer- it isn't 
costs about the same as a tube.  Anyone know where and  what part # to order?
 
Clearly one answer is to separate the computer from the radio so the  
computer (which we expect to upgrade) can be upgraded separately and the radio  
remains intact. Sooner or later, even the super-dooper brand new Dragonball  will 
be obsolete and O2 owners will face the same dilemma all over again.   

k4ia
Craig  "Buck"
Fredericksburg, Virginia USA