[Elecraft] Firmware and DSP Upgrades

[BOB PHILBROOK]

I don't know to what extent or to what degree the tests of K3 firmware and DSP upgrades must reach before being released for general use.

However, it is apparent to me with the numerous issues with NR and DSP that more needs to be done before K3 software products are released for general use.

While I have no aversion to software upgrades, one does not want to trade one set of problems for others.  This, unfortunately, appears to be happening more and more as the software becomes more extensive in capabilities.

I don't know if Elecraft utilizes such techniques, but independent verification and validation (IV&V) of software has proven time and time again to work.  One cannot expect a software developer to adequately test his work.  

Independent testing by a third party against approved criteria catches many bugs and problems developers fail to see.  And unless one has a rigorous, structured software testing effort, problems such as those with DSP and NR will come back and bite you every time.  Having software tested by the developer often leads to the old problem of two steps forward and one in reverse with software releases.

I  make the suggestion that more time be spent proofing firmware and DSP upgrades and for Elecraft to employ software IV&V.

Bob, K9PAG