[Elecraft] K3 Bad Filters

[David Cutter]

I find it difficult to believe that a filter will go bad between 
manufacturer and customer.  Perhaps the odd one in 1000 might get past the 
manufacturer's test regime.  Modern surface mount components and hybrids are 
very sturdy and no postal service could impart sufficient vibration or shock 
to these devices to cause damage, particularly as these are soft-packed to 
absorb shocks.  It's even more improbable that it could change the 
performance by just a few dB that all but the best test equipment could 
reveal.

I am not able to test that the filters I purchased are up to spec, but if 
there have been significant numbers of failures (and the extraordinary 
failure of one in a reviewer's sample), I'm coming to the conclusion that 
filters should be returned to be re-tested, since the recent history 
indicates a faulty test and / or manufacturing regime.

INRAD is a well-respected manufacturer, so, for Elecraft to re-test their 
work (with all the calibration problems that engages) is a plus for our 
confidence in the final product but a distinct fear that those filters 
produced prior to this time are statistically more likely to have failures 
amongst them.

Eric, is this something Elecraft could offer?

David
G3UNA





> That Elecraft is testing the filters now is a good thing!
>
> I remember a post from Elecraft a few months ago, that said that I
> should not use the 8.2M IF filters that were intended for Yaesu's FT1K
> because the filters for the Elecraft K3 were specially selected to get
> top performance.
>
> The recent messages of bad filters, 8-pole and 5-pole, seem to
> contradict that. Or do filters break down during transport?
>
> Anyway, awaiting my new K3 with several filters within a few weeks from
> now, I expect that my filters are thouroughly tested for flatness, good
> imd-performance and are handpicked for top performance.... As promised.
>
> Or is this an impossible, strange question? Then please say so.
>
>
> 73
> Arie PA3A
> K2 36..something
> >
>
> We do now!
>
> Originally all 8 pole filters were supposed to be 100% tested at INRAD's
>
> supplier. When we discovered some bad ones had gotten through, we added
> 100% testing at Elecraft and at INRAD in Aptos.
>
> 73, Eric   WA6HHQ
>