[Elecraft] A confession

[Fred Jensen]

Hmmm ... Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion.  We are not however 
each entitled to our own facts.

The latest K3 Firmware Production Release on the website is 4.67 with a 
release date of 16 April 2013 -- coming up on a year old.

Beta software/firmware versions are versions-in-test.  Developers have 
tested all the changes as best they can.  The developer however, is at 
the less effective end of the testing spectrum, just as proofreading 
your own compositions usually results in misteaks slipping through.  The 
current K3 Beta Firmware is 4.81, just released.

Installing Beta firmware makes you part of the Test Team.  You *will* 
find problems, along with all your comrades on the Beta Test Team. 
That's not the fault of the developers, it's just life.  If you want 
stable, fully-tested firmware in your radio, don't join the Test Team.

My K3 [#642] is running 4.58 which was the Production Release when I 
installed it, after a fairly lengthy beta test period.  It has been 
completely stable, no "hiccups, bumps, or whatever."

I read all the release notes for K3 production firmware releases.  So 
far, nothing beyond 4.58 has contained any changes/additions that affect 
my station configuration.  When one comes along that does affect my 
configuration, I'll evaluate whether or not I need/want the 
features/capabilities of that release.

I have chosen not to join the Elecraft Beta Test Team.  Everyone can 
make the same choice ... or not.  It is a choice that each of us get to 
make, and it, like practically every choice in life, carries consequences.

73,

Fred K6DGW
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the 2014 Cal QSO Party 4-5 Oct 2014
- www.cqp.org
.
On 2/10/2014 6:01 AM, mikerodgerske5gbc at yahoo.com wrote:
> The major thing he alluded to, I agree with. Elecraft needs more stable firmware and displays.
>
> I may be wrong but it seems there are too many instances of hiccups, bumps or whatever.
>
> I have a friend looking to buy and did not recommend the k3 without those disclaimers.