Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Don Wilhelm]

Elecraft offers support for the K2, K1, KX1, K3, K3S, KX3, KX2 and XV 
series transverters, even if they were Field Test models.


The Field Test K2s differ from the Rev A models with slight differences. 
 If anyone is upgrading a Field Test K2, I would be happy to help with 
a few hints.  I have upgraded several Field Test K2s.


73,
Don W3FPR

On 6/14/2017 9:44 PM, Walter Underwood wrote:

On Jun 14, 2017, at 6:33 PM, WILLIE BABER  wrote:

There were lots of mods to do as I purchased a field-test unit.


I know the thread is closed, but I’ve been an engineer for more than three 
decades and I’ve never heard of a manufacturer offering support for a field 
test unit. Dang.

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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Walter Underwood]

> On Jun 14, 2017, at 6:33 PM, WILLIE BABER  wrote:
> 
> There were lots of mods to do as I purchased a field-test unit.

I know the thread is closed, but I’ve been an engineer for more than three 
decades and I’ve never heard of a manufacturer offering support for a field 
test unit. Dang.

wunder
K6WRU
Walter Underwood
CM87wj
http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog)

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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[WILLIE BABER]

Maybe there are two levels of frustrationregular frustration, especially if 
you have ONE radio that isn't working, and you know that you will be off the 
air until the radio is fixedand you will miss an operating event!  This is 
normal.

The second level of frustration is getting the radio fixed in a timely fashion. 
 Elecraft will allow us to fix our own radios if we have the skill to do it 
with technical assistance.  I have done this several times with my K3 x 2 
(so2r), with detailed instructions that almost anyone can follow, from an 
Elecraft technician.  This saves lots of time in getting the radio working 
properly again. 

However, when I could not repair the PA in my nearly purchased K3 via 
instructions from a technician, I sent in the PA module only.  The technician 
couldn't fix it in a timely fashion either so I was sent another PA that solved 
the problem.  However, this was a two or three week long experience until I 
finally got another PA. No problem for me because I had other radios, so I 
wasn't at all frustrated by the time factor.  Of course I had no doubt that 
Elecraft would fix the PA.

I experienced the same kind of support in completing Elecraft k2 100 that I 
purchased years ago but I didn't complete building until some years later.  
There were lots of mods to do as I purchased a field-test unit.  I got every 
one of the mods in place, including the much needed keying modification.  And, 
for the most part, I didn't have to bother Elecraft technicians to finish K2.  
Every issue I had with K2 was resolved by searching archived Elecraft emails!

I like Elecraft because we (or yours truly) can be part of the repair-solution 
compared to the black-box approach that forces you to "send it in" for repair, 
no matter what is the problem. And then wait.

Now, if you are new to ham radio and don't have much knowledge about radios, 
then this silver-lining to Elecraft service may not be as obvious.

73, Will, wj9b
K2, and K3/P3 x 2


CWops #1085
CWA Advisor levels II and III
http://cwops.org/


On Tue, 6/13/17, Gary Smith <g...@ka1j.com> wrote:

 Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft
 To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
 Date: Tuesday, June 13, 2017, 11:25 AM
 
 Andy,
 
 Just to be another to chime in on the 
 bandwagon, This is the kind of response 
 that Elecraft has been doing since I first 
 bought my K3 kit in 98 I think it was.
 
 I now have a fully loaded K3s,
 a backup 
 K3, fully loaded P3 and a K-Pod.
 My 
 amplifier is an Alpha 77SX but I am 
 seriously considering going for the 
 upcoming Elecraft SS 1500W amp. The only 
 thing that could pry the 77SX out of my 
 fingers would be a full limit Elecraft 
 amp. I have come to equate Elecraft with 
 integrity and quality.
 
 You will enjoy your radios and you will 
 have fun discovering all the hidden 
 nuggets your radios have waiting for you 
 to uncover.
 
 73,
 
 Gary
 KA1J
 
 
 > Wayne,
 > 
 > Thanks for the quick response and
 action!
 > 
 > I look
 forward to having a great field day.
 >
 
 > 
 > 
 > -
 > NB8F - Andy
 > Elecraft K3S / KX2
 >
 User since June 2017
 > Ham since March
 2015
 > --
 > View this
 message in context:
 > http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Frustration-with-Elecraft-tp76316
 > 98p7631707.html Sent from the Elecraft
 mailing list archive at
 > Nabble.com.
 >
 __
 > Elecraft mailing list Home:
 > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
 Help:
 > http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post:
 mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Merv Schweigert via Elecraft]

And heat shields,  its gonna be hotter than the incinerator and bone grinder
for some..

I'll join a kickstarter... but I require an N-Connector and Shielded
CAT-7 jacks.:)

__
Clay Autery, KY5G

On 6/14/2017 4:58 PM, Nr4c wrote:

Hurry!

Be among the first to get in on the ground floor of a promising business 
venture!

Cemetery Urns, complete with SO-239 and network jack.

Sent from my iPhone
...nr4c. bill



On Jun 13, 2017, at 9:22 PM, Bill Johnson <k9...@live.com> wrote:

Mine as well including all coax and power supplies.  500 watts or QRPp right 
from the crematorium.  Will this stuff incinerate?

73,
Bill
K9YEQ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Clay Autery
Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 12:20 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

I'm taking mine with me when I go!!!  

__
Clay Autery, KY5G


On 6/13/2017 12:08 PM, rich hurd WC3T wrote:
short of my QSYing to another plane of existence

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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft - way off topic but funny.

[Bill Johnson]

What about fiber optics as well.  I think we are off to a great start.  I will 
not respond further as this is off topic.

73,
Bill
K9YEQ

-Original Message-
From: Clay Autery [mailto:caut...@montac.com] 
Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2017 5:08 PM
To: Nr4c <n...@widomaker.com>; Bill Johnson <k9...@live.com>
Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

I'll join a kickstarter... but I require an N-Connector and Shielded
CAT-7 jacks.:)

__
Clay Autery, KY5G

On 6/14/2017 4:58 PM, Nr4c wrote:
> Hurry!
>
> Be among the first to get in on the ground floor of a promising business 
> venture!
>
> Cemetery Urns, complete with SO-239 and network jack. 
>
> Sent from my iPhone
> ...nr4c. bill
>
>
>> On Jun 13, 2017, at 9:22 PM, Bill Johnson <k9...@live.com> wrote:
>>
>> Mine as well including all coax and power supplies.  500 watts or QRPp right 
>> from the crematorium.  Will this stuff incinerate?
>>
>> 73,
>> Bill
>> K9YEQ
>>
>> -Original Message-
>> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
>> [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Clay Autery
>> Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 12:20 PM
>> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft
>>
>> I'm taking mine with me when I go!!!  
>>
>> __
>> Clay Autery, KY5G
>>
>>> On 6/13/2017 12:08 PM, rich hurd WC3T wrote:
>>> short of my QSYing to another plane of existence

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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Clay Autery]

I'll join a kickstarter... but I require an N-Connector and Shielded
CAT-7 jacks.:)

__
Clay Autery, KY5G

On 6/14/2017 4:58 PM, Nr4c wrote:
> Hurry!
>
> Be among the first to get in on the ground floor of a promising business 
> venture!
>
> Cemetery Urns, complete with SO-239 and network jack. 
>
> Sent from my iPhone
> ...nr4c. bill
>
>
>> On Jun 13, 2017, at 9:22 PM, Bill Johnson <k9...@live.com> wrote:
>>
>> Mine as well including all coax and power supplies.  500 watts or QRPp right 
>> from the crematorium.  Will this stuff incinerate?
>>
>> 73,
>> Bill
>> K9YEQ
>>
>> -Original Message-
>> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
>> [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Clay Autery
>> Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 12:20 PM
>> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft
>>
>> I'm taking mine with me when I go!!!  
>>
>> __
>> Clay Autery, KY5G
>>
>>> On 6/13/2017 12:08 PM, rich hurd WC3T wrote:
>>> short of my QSYing to another plane of existence

__
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Nr4c]

Hurry!

Be among the first to get in on the ground floor of a promising business 
venture!

Cemetery Urns, complete with SO-239 and network jack. 

Sent from my iPhone
...nr4c. bill


> On Jun 13, 2017, at 9:22 PM, Bill Johnson <k9...@live.com> wrote:
> 
> Mine as well including all coax and power supplies.  500 watts or QRPp right 
> from the crematorium.  Will this stuff incinerate?
> 
> 73,
> Bill
> K9YEQ
> 
> -Original Message-
> From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
> [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Clay Autery
> Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 12:20 PM
> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft
> 
> I'm taking mine with me when I go!!!  
> 
> __
> Clay Autery, KY5G
> 
>> On 6/13/2017 12:08 PM, rich hurd WC3T wrote:
>> short of my QSYing to another plane of existence
> 
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Bill Johnson]

I had an issue with my K3s. It required a bunch of communications and sending 
my equipment in and then to see it fail.  Never, ever did I lose confidence 
that Elecraft wouldn't make it right... guess what? They did.  Personal 
communications, listening to my expertise when diagnosing (a biggie, since my 
experience tells me that most tech support treats me like an idiot) and all is 
working just super. Oh, I do have lots of experience with this Co.  I will sign 
with my very old outdated credentials.  

72 & 73,
Bill
K9YEQ, FT'er for K2, KX1, KX3, KXPA100,  KAT500, W2, etc. 

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Edward R Cole
Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 1:27 PM
To: Elecraft Reflector <elecraft@mailman.qth.net>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

I can relate to Andy's frustration and bad luck.  I fortunately have had good 
luck with my Elecraft purchases and any difficulties were result of inadequate 
knowledge or lack of reading over the manual sufficiently.

I recently installed the KXAT100 in my KXPA100 prior to taking a month-long 
trip out of Alaska to pick up our recently purchased 5th-wheel travel trailer 
in Seattle.  I tested it with the KX3 remote control on my bench but after 
install in the truck it would not work properly (Not power-on from the KX3 
menu).  I discovered that the power-pole connector had to be in the proper jack 
(not the auxiliary power-pole jack) for that to function.

I used it mainly on 6m with a base-loaded whip.

I have one of the beta-test 2M transverter modules and it partially failed in 
power output.  Elecraft got that repaired for me.  I ran 120w 2m-SSB on the 
trip driving a 2w/25w driver PA for the TE1410 final amp.  It only required 
0.8w drive to produce 10w drive into the final, but I worked a VE7 outside the 
Vancouver area into northern WA while mobile.  KX3-2M receives quite well even 
in marginal mobile conditions.

I recently traded my DEMI 222-28 transverter for a new 30w FM mobile as there 
is no CW/SSB activity up here.  The new Bridgecom BCM-220 looked like a nice 
substitute and I excitedly set it up upon arrival, but it would not transmit.  
After much head scratching I decided maybe a call was needed to their "tech 
dept".  I actually got the CEO of the company and after a couple questions 
determined I was trying 
to transmit out of the band.   Well the VFO indicated in band so I 
was confused.  He then walked me thru checking if duplex offset was in 
play...and it was.  I didn't program that?  He explained they pre-program the 
radio with that and a couple repeater frequencies (apparently to aid the new 
operator in setting up repeater use).  I had never experienced a new radio with 
any programing so didn't look for any.  Radio worked fine once I reset offset 
to zero - which was a big "duh" moment for me!  I can say I was impressed with 
Bridgecom's response (so maybe they learned from watching Elecraft?).

This is still unusual in my experience with OEM's.  I spent 30 years working as 
two-way radio tech with a lot of the "other" kind of tech help.

I tried to emulate Elecraft in my small kit making business; I recently closed 
the doors and no longer build kits on contract.  At
72 I am finally retired.

73, Ed - KL7UW
   http://www.kl7uw.com
Dubus-NA Business mail:
   dubus...@gmail.com 

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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Bill Johnson]

Mine as well including all coax and power supplies.  500 watts or QRPp right 
from the crematorium.  Will this stuff incinerate?

73,
Bill
K9YEQ

-Original Message-
From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Clay Autery
Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 12:20 PM
To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

I'm taking mine with me when I go!!!  

__
Clay Autery, KY5G

On 6/13/2017 12:08 PM, rich hurd WC3T wrote:
> short of my QSYing to another plane of existence

__
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Edward R Cole]

I can relate to Andy's frustration and bad luck.  I fortunately have 
had good luck with my Elecraft purchases and any difficulties were 
result of inadequate knowledge or lack of reading over the manual sufficiently.


I recently installed the KXAT100 in my KXPA100 prior to taking a 
month-long trip out of Alaska to pick up our recently purchased 
5th-wheel travel trailer in Seattle.  I tested it with the KX3 remote 
control on my bench but after install in the truck it would not work 
properly (Not power-on from the KX3 menu).  I discovered that the 
power-pole connector had to be in the proper jack (not the auxiliary 
power-pole jack) for that to function.


I used it mainly on 6m with a base-loaded whip.

I have one of the beta-test 2M transverter modules and it partially 
failed in power output.  Elecraft got that repaired for me.  I ran 
120w 2m-SSB on the trip driving a 2w/25w driver PA for the TE1410 
final amp.  It only required 0.8w drive to produce 10w drive into the 
final, but I worked a VE7 outside the Vancouver area into northern WA 
while mobile.  KX3-2M receives quite well even in marginal mobile conditions.


I recently traded my DEMI 222-28 transverter for a new 30w FM mobile 
as there is no CW/SSB activity up here.  The new Bridgecom BCM-220 
looked like a nice substitute and I excitedly set it up upon arrival, 
but it would not transmit.  After much head scratching I decided 
maybe a call was needed to their "tech dept".  I actually got the CEO 
of the company and after a couple questions determined I was trying 
to transmit out of the band.   Well the VFO indicated in band so I 
was confused.  He then walked me thru checking if duplex offset was 
in play...and it was.  I didn't program that?  He explained they 
pre-program the radio with that and a couple repeater frequencies 
(apparently to aid the new operator in setting up repeater use).  I 
had never experienced a new radio with any programing so didn't look 
for any.  Radio worked fine once I reset offset to zero - which was a 
big "duh" moment for me!  I can say I was impressed with Bridgecom's 
response (so maybe they learned from watching Elecraft?).


This is still unusual in my experience with OEM's.  I spent 30 years 
working as two-way radio tech with a lot of the "other" kind of tech help.


I tried to emulate Elecraft in my small kit making business; I 
recently closed the doors and no longer build kits on contract.  At 
72 I am finally retired.


73, Ed - KL7UW
  http://www.kl7uw.com
Dubus-NA Business mail:
  dubus...@gmail.com 


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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[NB8F]

Dan, I just want to say that I 100% agree. I was weary of posting my thoughts
because of what happens on most boards.  I was surprised to see Wayne
respond directly and too me, made a big difference.  The fact that, while
many supported Elecraft (rightfully so), none of them said I was wrong or
wanted to pick a fight.   I am sure I will be an Elecraft owner for a long
time to come.  In this particular instance I am satisfied with the response
and action that was taken. 

I also want to say thanks to many of you who reached out to me directly to
help in any way possible. It's nice to see a community that is so
responsive, it helps solidify that I made the right decision on my new radio
purchases. 



Dan Cross wrote
> Here here! I just wanted to mention that I think it speaks well of both
> Elecraft and the Elecraft community that someone can come onto the mailing
> list, mention a problem and give some feedback, get a good solid response
> from an officer of the company AND not get torn up in the process by a
> heckling peanut gallery. So many times I see communities where folks will
> take honest feedback as criticism and react poorly when that clearly
> wasn't
> the intent; it's heartening to see that the Elecraft community is more
> accepting of well-intentioned, well-written and honest feedback, and that
> makes me proud and happy to be an Elecraft owner.  73,
> 
> - Dan C.
>   AC2OI





-
NB8F - Andy
Elecraft K3S / KX2
User since June 2017
Ham since March 2015
--
View this message in context: 
http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Frustration-with-Elecraft-tp7631698p7631723.html
Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Gary Smith]

Andy,

Just to be another to chime in on the 
bandwagon, This is the kind of response 
that Elecraft has been doing since I first 
bought my K3 kit in 98 I think it was.

I now have a fully loaded K3s, a backup 
K3, fully loaded P3 and a K-Pod. My 
amplifier is an Alpha 77SX but I am 
seriously considering going for the 
upcoming Elecraft SS 1500W amp. The only 
thing that could pry the 77SX out of my 
fingers would be a full limit Elecraft 
amp. I have come to equate Elecraft with 
integrity and quality.

You will enjoy your radios and you will 
have fun discovering all the hidden 
nuggets your radios have waiting for you 
to uncover.

73,

Gary
KA1J


> Wayne,
> 
> Thanks for the quick response and action!
> 
> I look forward to having a great field day.
> 
> 
> 
> -
> NB8F - Andy
> Elecraft K3S / KX2
> User since June 2017
> Ham since March 2015
> --
> View this message in context:
> http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/Frustration-with-Elecraft-tp76316
> 98p7631707.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at
> Nabble.com.
> __
> Elecraft mailing list Home:
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help:
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> 
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> 



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[Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[John Dolan]

One of the main reasons I purchased my K3s and KX 3 rigs was that I could
expect support AFTER the sale if ever I need it. I am so glad that I am a
member of the Elecraft community!

73 and Thanks!  WB4YAL John

*Many of life's problems can be solved by simply deciding what we can do
without. -JohnDolan  *
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Clay Autery]

I'm taking mine with me when I go!!!  

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Clay Autery, KY5G

On 6/13/2017 12:08 PM, rich hurd WC3T wrote:
> short of my QSYing to another plane of existence

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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[rich hurd WC3T]

At the risk of pushing this careening thread closer to the cliff of
moderation (yes, I too am a list moderator and applaud their efforts) I
have to say that following this encounter has cemented my somewhat tenuous
relationship with Elecraft into a rather unbreakable bond.

I'm the proud 2nd owner of a KX3 station (PX3, KXPA100) and I also have the
odd smattering of other rigs floating around.  To see how you guys have
stepped up in this matter has reinforced for me the determination that I
shan't ever be disposing of my Elecraft gear for any reason whatever (short
of my QSYing to another plane of existence), and your equipment will be at
the top of any list for future purchases.

Bravo Wayne and team, and thank you.

On Tue, Jun 13, 2017 at 12:37 PM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:

> Jim Brown  wrote:
>
>
> >
> > Elecraft is 30 miles down the road from me, and many of those who work
> there are my neighbors (Elecraft also employs designers and support people
> who are not within driving distance)
>
> That’s an important point for me, Jim. Most of our engineers work from
> home, including me. This reduces both stress and our carbon footprint. And
> consuming less fuel is philosophically in line with the company’s QRP roots
> :)
>
> We appreciate all of your hard-nosed engineering input over the years, too.
>
> 73,
> Wayne
> N6KR
>
>
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>



-- 
73 (or 72 for the QRP folks),
Rich Hurd / WC3T
DMR ID: 3142737
Northampton County RACES
EPA-ARRL Public Information Officer for Scouting
Latitude: 40.761621 Longitude: -75.288988  (40°45.68' N 75°17.33' W) Grid:
*FN20is*
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Rod Hardman(VA3ON)]

Dan - well said, very true.

Andrew - WELCOME to the Elecraft community! 
Like your club, I have good friends who are longtime Elecraft customers, so at 
Dayton I finally took the plunge and bought a KX2. (Eric filled out my order 
form himself - what a great experience)
It's an amazing unit and as mentioned here I bought a radio and got a whole 
bunch more. 
Wayne, Eric, the other Elecraft folks and the whole crew here too, nicely done!
/rod. VA3ON


On Jun 13, 2017, at 12:17, Dan Cross  wrote:

On Tue, Jun 13, 2017 at 11:46 AM, G4GNX  wrote:

> THIS is why I'm proud to own Elecraft equipment and will continue to do so.
> 

Here here! I just wanted to mention that I think it speaks well of both
Elecraft and the Elecraft community that someone can come onto the mailing
list, mention a problem and give some feedback, get a good solid response
from an officer of the company AND not get torn up in the process by a
heckling peanut gallery. So many times I see communities where folks will
take honest feedback as criticism and react poorly when that clearly wasn't
the intent; it's heartening to see that the Elecraft community is more
accepting of well-intentioned, well-written and honest feedback, and that
makes me proud and happy to be an Elecraft owner.  73,

   - Dan C.
 AC2OI
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[George Thornton]

I want to strongly echo others' statements of confidence and support for 
Elecraft's quality, integrity and follow through.

I started with Elecraft by building a K2 (great kit building experience) and 
later K3/P3 with all the bells and whistles.

These guys make excellent products and they provide top notch service.  They 
stand by their customers and their products.

Electronic equipment is complex and sensitive and occasionally components 
malfunction or become damaged.  These things are easily corrected.





From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net 
[mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Wayne Burdick
Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 8:43 AM
To: NB8F <n...@nb8f.com>
Cc: Elecraft Reflector <elecraft@mailman.qth.net>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

Hi Andy,

Just checked with Mike in sales. Looks like your KX2 has shipped.

Have fun in Field Day--

Wayne
N6KR


> On Jun 13, 2017, at 8:32 AM, NB8F <n...@nb8f.com><mailto:n...@nb8f.com%3e> 
> wrote:
>
> Wayne,
> Thank you for the response. My thought that this was all a rarity and I
> appreciate you reaching out, I also felt this might be the best way (after
> my existing tickets / emails), to get this highlighted. Please keep me
> posted on the progress, again, communication goes a long way. As a Director
> of Engineering myself, understand that things can be missed and I understand
> the development / engineering process in which you work through.
>
> Thanks again and I look forward to a long relationship with Elecraft.
>
>
>
>
> -
> NB8F - Andy
> Elecraft K3S / KX2



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gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com<mailto:gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com>


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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Wayne Burdick]

Jim Brown  wrote:


> 
> Elecraft is 30 miles down the road from me, and many of those who work there 
> are my neighbors (Elecraft also employs designers and support people who are 
> not within driving distance)

That’s an important point for me, Jim. Most of our engineers work from home, 
including me. This reduces both stress and our carbon footprint. And consuming 
less fuel is philosophically in line with the company’s QRP roots :)

We appreciate all of your hard-nosed engineering input over the years, too.

73,
Wayne
N6KR


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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Jim Brown]

Elecraft is 30 miles down the road from me, and many of those who work 
there are my neighbors (Elecraft also employs designers and support 
people who are not within driving distance).  In my 60+ years as a ham 
and working engineer, I've encountered NO other companies whose OWNERS 
monitor their email support reflector, UNDERSTAND the questions, 
comments, and ideas expressed there, and DO something positive in 
response. EVERY company and person makes mistakes or has bad days. What 
they do in response is a large part of what separates the great 
companies from the others.


Old timers can testify that one of the major JA radio companies (starts 
with a Y) took three models to correct AWFUL key clicks in their 
flagship (expensive) radio, and to get that fix, you had to sell the old 
one and buy the new one. And they didn't learn from it -- much later, 
very different designs of their flagship models (twice the cost of a 
K3S) had very bad clicks and took years to fix with a firmware update.  
And they didn't do that until I published a detailed analysis of ARRL 
Lab test data showing how bad they were. With that update, they're 
better, but still not great. But, thanks to limitations of the design, 
that's the best they can do without starting over. :)


73, Jim K9YC

On Tue,6/13/2017 8:46 AM, G4GNX wrote:
THIS is why I'm proud to own Elecraft equipment and will continue to 
do so.


73,

Alan. G4GNX

-Original Message- From: Wayne Burdick
Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 4:09 PM
To: Andrew Holman
Cc: Elecraft Reflector
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

Hi Andrew,

I’m the CTO of Elecraft and principal designer of our transceivers. 
I’ll try to address your issues:

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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Dan Cross]

On Tue, Jun 13, 2017 at 11:46 AM, G4GNX  wrote:

> THIS is why I'm proud to own Elecraft equipment and will continue to do so.
>

Here here! I just wanted to mention that I think it speaks well of both
Elecraft and the Elecraft community that someone can come onto the mailing
list, mention a problem and give some feedback, get a good solid response
from an officer of the company AND not get torn up in the process by a
heckling peanut gallery. So many times I see communities where folks will
take honest feedback as criticism and react poorly when that clearly wasn't
the intent; it's heartening to see that the Elecraft community is more
accepting of well-intentioned, well-written and honest feedback, and that
makes me proud and happy to be an Elecraft owner.  73,

- Dan C.
  AC2OI
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[NB8F]

Wayne,

Thanks for the quick response and action!

I look forward to having a great field day.



-
NB8F - Andy
Elecraft K3S / KX2
User since June 2017
Ham since March 2015
--
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[G4GNX]

THIS is why I'm proud to own Elecraft equipment and will continue to do so.

73,

Alan. G4GNX

-Original Message- 
From: Wayne Burdick

Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 4:09 PM
To: Andrew Holman
Cc: Elecraft Reflector
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

Hi Andrew,

I’m the CTO of Elecraft and principal designer of our transceivers. I’ll try 
to address your issues: 


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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Wayne Burdick]

Hi Andy,

Just checked with Mike in sales. Looks like your KX2 has shipped.

Have fun in Field Day--

Wayne
N6KR


> On Jun 13, 2017, at 8:32 AM, NB8F  wrote:
> 
> Wayne,
> Thank you for the response. My thought that this was all a rarity and I
> appreciate you reaching out, I also felt this might be the best way (after
> my existing tickets / emails), to get this highlighted.  Please keep me
> posted on the progress, again, communication goes a long way.  As a Director
> of Engineering myself, understand that things can be missed and I understand
> the development / engineering process in which you work through.
> 
> Thanks again and I look forward to a long relationship with Elecraft.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> -
> NB8F - Andy
> Elecraft K3S / KX2



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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Buddy Brannan]

Howdy Andy,

The response below, from an officer of the company and its chief product 
designer, is really what makes Elecraft stand head and shoulders above any 
other of the major manufacturers in the ham radio world...this response right 
here. 

You got a response from the CTO of the company. He and Eric, you know, "the 
other guy that isn't Wayne", are in close, direct, and personal contact with 
us, their customer base. 

Wayne took ownership of your problems. He didn't make excuses. He gave reasons 
and facts, he was polite, and he pledged to fix the problems with your 
equipment and your interactions. 

You can count on support like that from hre on out with all of your Elecraft 
gear. 

I've been an Elecraft owner since 2003, when I got my K2/100 through some 
interesting (and very special, to me anyway) circumstances. Have also owned a 
KX1, now belongs to a friend but kept my sanity through an international 
adoption and being locked in an apartment in Ukraine. Bought one of the first 
500 KX3's back in 2012, to celebrate 25 years of ham radio. Any time I've had a 
problem, I've had a great community of support, not just from Elecraft, but 
from all the folks on this list. Problems have been pretty rare, by the way, 
but always got help with them. 

So, yeah, you've bought some radio gear, but you've bought a bunch more than 
that, if you ask me (which you didn't). And, once all the kinks get ironed out, 
you're going to have years and years of fun with this stuff, and no mistake. 

Vy 73,

--
Buddy Brannan, KB5ELV - Erie, PA
Phone: 814-860-3194 
Mobile: 814-431-0962
Email: bu...@brannan.name




> On Jun 13, 2017, at 11:09 AM, Wayne Burdick  wrote:
> 
> Hi Andrew,
> 
> I’m the CTO of Elecraft and principal designer of our transceivers. I’ll try 
> to address your issues. 
> 
> During the few weeks since Dayton, about half of our customer support staff 
> has been on unexpected leave (parent illness, etc.). We brought a very senior 
> tech to help, but it’s been a bit of a fire drill. We also have two of our 
> sales staff on leave, which has resulted in unexpectedly long response times 
> to phone calls and email. 
> 
> This situation is of course temporary. Meanwhile, I’m even taking some of the 
> overload myself, as you can see :) 
> 
> 
>> Before Dayton, in order to replace my FT-857D I decided to buy a KX2 for
>> Field Day.  I purchased and waited for it to ship, which took about 8 days
>> (approximately).  I did not have it in time for Dayton, which I was OK
>> with. When asked if I could take advantage of any Dayton deals, I was told
>> "No".  OK, no problem.
> 
> Usually the radios ship more quickly than this, but we do take some with us 
> to Dayton each year for walk-up sales. Since you fell into a certifiable gray 
> area with respect to Dayton timing, we should have credited you back the show 
> special on your KX2. I’ll make sure this happens.
> 
> 
>> When I went to Hamvention this year, I asked someone at the booth to "take
>> my money" and convince me to buy an Elecraft radio
>> I was a little bummed that someone didn't feel the need to really sell me
>> on the radio (they barely spoke to me)
> 
> Wow. You must have come to the booth when everyone on our regular sales 
> staff, including myself, were on a lunch break. I did in-depth demonstrations 
> of the KX2 and KX3 hundreds of times, even to the point of taking the KX2 
> outside (twice) to do on-air demos using the radio hand-held with a whip. 
> 
> I’ll make sure that our regular crew and temporary subs don't miss such an 
> opportunity again. Normally we engage potential customers to the point that, 
> by the time they’ve decided yea or nay, we know their favorite bands, modes, 
> other hobbies, and the names of their pets.
> 
> 
>> A few days after Dayton I get my KX2 and begin using it.  I am mostly a CW
>> op and noticed that after a while the radio would "stick" on CW.  It would
>> let out long tones etc., I did not see the error to start, but after a day
>> or so I saw a temp warning.  I reached out to Elecraft, they said they
>> would fix the radio anytime I sent it back.  I asked if I could wait until
>> after Field Day since this was purchased for that specific reason.  They
>> were more than happy to oblige.
> 
> Well, bummer. It’s very rare for any of our radios to have an out-of-the-box 
> issue like this. Sorry you’ve encountered such a problem right before FD!
> 
> 
>> During this time I decided I was going to buy a K3S. ...RF/SQL Pot just was 
>> not working.  We tried all kinds of things to fix
>> this, to no availcame to the conclusion that one of the pots had a 
>> missing solder.
> 
> Also extremely rare. I’ll talk to CS and get the info back to our 
> manufacturing department. They do 100% visual inspection with very 
> sophisticated optical gear, but apparently they missed this one.
> 
> 
>> I go about soldering the bad pot for RF/SQL and the K3S is back in 
>> 

Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[NB8F]

Wayne,
Thank you for the response. My thought that this was all a rarity and I
appreciate you reaching out, I also felt this might be the best way (after
my existing tickets / emails), to get this highlighted.  Please keep me
posted on the progress, again, communication goes a long way.  As a Director
of Engineering myself, understand that things can be missed and I understand
the development / engineering process in which you work through.

Thanks again and I look forward to a long relationship with Elecraft.




-
NB8F - Andy
Elecraft K3S / KX2
User since June 2017
Ham since March 2015
--
View this message in context: 
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[Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[James Wilson]

​I ordered  my first K3-100 in 2009 from the factory
( When I decided to buy it, I was eager to have it):-)​

Since then, I have assembled kits for another K3-100, two P3's,
two KPA500's, a KAT500 and a signal generator boards.

All assembled without a hitch. None. Zero. Nada.

Sorry about your experience. Mine has been perfection.

Jim - W4RKS
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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Bob McGraw K4TAX]

I'm not aware of any electronics company that doesn't, from time to 
time, sell and ship a product with faults.  For what it's worth, that's 
why the company provides a warranty.  Otherwise, no warranty would be 
needed if they are "perfect" 100% of the time. Won't happen!


Seems some folks are just luckier than others in that they always get 
the ones which are defective.  Bummer!  The best part is that the 
company is responsive and in a very timely manner as many are not.


I am very pleased with the build quality, physical quality / appearance 
and performance of my K3S, which is now on the desk for almost 2 years.  
One fellows KX3 at Field Day two years ago inspired me to look at and 
move to Elecraft.  Glad I did and haven't looked back, nor at any other 
brand / model.


73

Bob, K4TAX

S/N 10163



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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Wayne Burdick]

Hi Andrew,

I’m the CTO of Elecraft and principal designer of our transceivers. I’ll try to 
address your issues. 

During the few weeks since Dayton, about half of our customer support staff has 
been on unexpected leave (parent illness, etc.). We brought a very senior tech 
to help, but it’s been a bit of a fire drill. We also have two of our sales 
staff on leave, which has resulted in unexpectedly long response times to phone 
calls and email. 

This situation is of course temporary. Meanwhile, I’m even taking some of the 
overload myself, as you can see :) 


> Before Dayton, in order to replace my FT-857D I decided to buy a KX2 for
> Field Day.  I purchased and waited for it to ship, which took about 8 days
> (approximately).  I did not have it in time for Dayton, which I was OK
> with. When asked if I could take advantage of any Dayton deals, I was told
> "No".  OK, no problem.

Usually the radios ship more quickly than this, but we do take some with us to 
Dayton each year for walk-up sales. Since you fell into a certifiable gray area 
with respect to Dayton timing, we should have credited you back the show 
special on your KX2. I’ll make sure this happens.


> When I went to Hamvention this year, I asked someone at the booth to "take
> my money" and convince me to buy an Elecraft radio
> I was a little bummed that someone didn't feel the need to really sell me
> on the radio (they barely spoke to me)

Wow. You must have come to the booth when everyone on our regular sales staff, 
including myself, were on a lunch break. I did in-depth demonstrations of the 
KX2 and KX3 hundreds of times, even to the point of taking the KX2 outside 
(twice) to do on-air demos using the radio hand-held with a whip. 

I’ll make sure that our regular crew and temporary subs don't miss such an 
opportunity again. Normally we engage potential customers to the point that, by 
the time they’ve decided yea or nay, we know their favorite bands, modes, other 
hobbies, and the names of their pets.


> A few days after Dayton I get my KX2 and begin using it.  I am mostly a CW
> op and noticed that after a while the radio would "stick" on CW.  It would
> let out long tones etc., I did not see the error to start, but after a day
> or so I saw a temp warning.  I reached out to Elecraft, they said they
> would fix the radio anytime I sent it back.  I asked if I could wait until
> after Field Day since this was purchased for that specific reason.  They
> were more than happy to oblige.

Well, bummer. It’s very rare for any of our radios to have an out-of-the-box 
issue like this. Sorry you’ve encountered such a problem right before FD!


> During this time I decided I was going to buy a K3S. ...RF/SQL Pot just was 
> not working.  We tried all kinds of things to fix
> this, to no availcame to the conclusion that one of the pots had a 
> missing solder.

Also extremely rare. I’ll talk to CS and get the info back to our manufacturing 
department. They do 100% visual inspection with very sophisticated optical 
gear, but apparently they missed this one.


> I go about soldering the bad pot for RF/SQL and the K3S is back in 
> business

Thank you very much for correcting this problem yourself. We greatly appreciate 
it when customers take our “hands-on...” slogan literally.


> Days go by and it is now Monday.  I reach out to Elecraft to see if my KX2
> had shipped as I had not seen a tracking number.  The response was a
> bummer.  The KX2 didn't ship and they need to see if there is a hold on
> KX2's being shipped.  

I’ll be investigating this as soon as I finish typing. As I mentioned above, 
there was a bit of a personnel shortage recently.


> K3S is working, KX2 still needs to be replaced, but I am thousands into the
> Elecraft brand and both radios have had problems with quality control.

Fortunately rare. But thank you for bringing it to my attention.


> NOTE: Notice I didn't even complain about the artifact on the LCD screen
> during boot, which is yet a whole separate issue, which probably should be
> fixed as well.

In theory, the LCD controller IC powers up in an unknown (scrambled) state. But 
some of the controllers seem to reset to all segments off, while others don’t. 
This may be something we can fix in firmware, and it’s on my task list.

Thanks for your patience, and let me know if anything further comes up.

73,
Wayne, N6KR
CTO, Elecraft, Inc.




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Re: [Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[NB8F]

Just to update the links for the videos as I noticed they were incorrect.

K3S - RF/SQL Issue
https://youtu.be/zeDqqZSKcFA

KX2 - Temp issue
https://youtu.be/6r15pqwk8OQ



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[Elecraft] Frustration with Elecraft

[Andrew Holman]

I want to share a couple things that have happened over the last couple
weeks for transparency, this is not to "slam" Elecraft in anyway, but what
I am hoping is a call for improvement on their end.

I have been a Flex user for about a year and have only been a ham for about
2 years.  Most of the guys/gals in my club use Elecraft K3 or K3S
transceivers, while I liked the Flex I knew that I would have a wide range
of support for Elecraft from the local club.

Before Dayton, in order to replace my FT-857D I decided to buy a KX2 for
Field Day.  I purchased and waited for it to ship, which took about 8 days
(approximately).  I did not have it in time for Dayton, which I was OK
with. When asked if I could take advantage of any Dayton deals, I was told
"No".  OK, no problem.

When I went to Hamvention this year, I asked someone at the booth to "take
my money" and convince me to buy an Elecraft radio.  Depending on how you
look at the situation, I can see both sides of this.  Some may say
"Elecraft doesn't want to take your money, the rig speaks for itself!"
others may say "What fools, the guy was willing to buy your radio!"  For me
I was a little bummed that someone didn't feel the need to really sell me
on the radio (they barely spoke to me) someone who specifically asked them
to talk them away from Flex.

A few days after Dayton I get my KX2 and begin using it.  I am mostly a CW
op and noticed that after a while the radio would "stick" on CW.  It would
let out long tones etc., I did not see the error to start, but after a day
or so I saw a temp warning.  I reached out to Elecraft, they said they
would fix the radio anytime I sent it back.  I asked if I could wait until
after Field Day since this was purchased for that specific reason.  They
were more than happy to oblige.

During this time I decided I was going to buy a K3S. I sold my Flex,
Maestro, FT-857D etc., and purchased the K3S kit and P3 Kit.  Some HAM's
from the club and I put the radio together but it wouldn't work properly.
The RF/SQL Pot just was not working.  We tried all kinds of things to fix
this, to no avail.

I reached out to Elecraft the next day, advised them that now, both of my
radios are having problems.  I spoke to David who was extremely helpful.
After a good hour and ripping the thing apart again, we came to the
conclusion that one of the pots had a missing solder.

During the call I was advised that my new KX2 was going to be shipped and
that the old one could be put in the box with a return label at no cost to
me.  This was on a Wednesday.  I was told the new radio was being broken in
and would be shipped on Thursday.  I go about soldering the bad pot for
RF/SQL and the K3S is back in business. Good for me, bad QA I suppose on
the Elecraft side as this is not something you assemble in the kit. I
believe the label on the bag said "Tested", if that was the case, I am not
sure how since that pot clearly did not work.

Days go by and it is now Monday.  I reach out to Elecraft to see if my KX2
had shipped as I had not seen a tracking number.  The response was a
bummer.  The KX2 didn't ship and they need to see if there is a hold on
KX2's being shipped.  I still replied back nicely saying, I hope not as it
was being checked last week for shipment.  A little communication goes a
looong way.

K3S is working, KX2 still needs to be replaced, but I am thousands into the
Elecraft brand and both radios have had problems with quality control.

I am NOT posting this to be a slam at Elecraft as I know they have a great
reputation for quality radios and customer service. For me, in particular,
other than David, I guess I am the abnormal one of the bunch in that I had
two radios that were defective and Customer Service (as it pertains to
shipping, satisfaction etc.,) has been mediocre.

I sure hope things take a better turn for me and for those who purchase
after me.

To help others diagnose potential issues with their radio I am posting the
videos here for review, which have been seen by Elecraft.

KX2 - CW Temperature
https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U_id=6r15pqwk8OQ

K3S - RF/SQL
https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U_id=zeDqqZSKcFA

Picture (not great) of the missing solder.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/hymwomrsn9byfll/IMG_20170607_14426.jpg?dl=0

NOTE: Notice I didn't even complain about the artifact on the LCD screen
during boot, which is yet a whole separate issue, which probably should be
fixed as well.


Thanks and Good DX!

Andy / NB8F

-- 
--
NB8F
Andy Holman
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