[Elecraft] Elecraft Digest, Vol 151, Issue 2

[Dave B]

On 03/11/16 21:16, elecraft-request at mailman.qth.net wrote:
> Date: Wed, 2 Nov 2016 18:04:55 -0400
> From: Michael Walker <va3mw at portcredit.net>
> To: "Elecraft at mailman.qth.net" <elecraft at mailman.qth.net>
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Chinese Filters on eBay
> Message-ID:
> 	<CA+33ts7c2i2EYkMQw1JKS7UVHcgUFnBPtAzjgE5FHjD8jj13qQ at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
>
> I bought a TCXO on ebay for  my TS480 (SO-3).  I installed it and then put
> the RF deck in the oven and then outside (it was winter).
>
> I went through the Alignment calibration to see how far it drifted.  I
> can't remember the exact number, but it was within limits in terms of PPM.
> Which was great, as my TS480 sits outside all winter on the remote base and
> that is as low as -30C at times.   It has been there for 7 years now (or
> more).
>
> For me, it was as test for $30 including shipping direct to my door.  It
> looked exactly like the SO-3 @ $135  plus shipping.
>
> So, before you declare the entire electronics world as poison, you do need
> to do your homework.
>
> Don't forget, this is an experimental hobby.
>
> Try Something....
>
> Mike va3mw
I'd second that.   There is nothing stopping you from reworking any
doubtfull soldering on anything you purchase.  Yes, I've had to do that
to get things working in the recent past.   The design was fine, the
production less so.  You pay your money, you make your choice.  Amateur
Radio is *not* a consumer hobby, experiment, as Mike says.

Yes, there is some crap coming out of China (and not only via eBay.)  
But, there is a lot of good stuff too, very good in fact.  You need to
do your research and look at the reviews and feedback etc.   Most of the
sellers who only have one presence on eBay are fine, but not all.   A
lot of those who have multiple "shops" are doubtful, but again, not all.

Yes, I have been ripped off in the past, but I've also had some
amazingly good value kit from China too.

The above also applies to many vendors from all over the world.   Many
in the US for example haven’t a clue about European safety rules, and
just as many don't seem to acknowledge that the US is not "the world"
when it comes to shipping.

Have to say, that there are some idiot British sellers too.

Just because it's made elsewhere, and comes from outside your own
country, does not immediately mean it's all rubbish, conversely, just
because it's made in your home country does not mean it's all good either.

Have to say, it's a pity other Ham kit is not made to the same high
standards that Elecraft use.  But, there are one or two other makers now
around the globe, who are coming close.    Keep your eyes and mind open.

Lastly, if you have a current model PC or mobile phone, I bet they are
made in China.  Even Apple have product made in China.

73.

Dave G0WBX.