[Elecraft] KIO3b Failure

[jerry]

On 2025-05-09 21:44, David Gilbert wrote:

> Which is why when the KIO3 on my K3 inevitably dies like many others
> have, my next rig won't be an Elecraft. 

To be fair, repair is an issue throughout the industry.  The modern
radios are far more capable than what we had in the 70s, but they
are also harder to repair.

I have a Yaesu FTDX10.  It has a problem with CAT control over USB.
   I bought it used, so Yaesu's warranty does not apply.  Yaesu
does have a "technical supplement" for the radio with complete 
schematics.
Not very useful, because that area of the circuitry is under the main 
board,
and once you get it apart enough for access, nothing works, and you 
can't
troubleshoot it.

  I called Yaesu:  "No, we don't fix stuff like that, we just replace the 
motherboard".
"Cost would be about a grand".... about the cost of another used FTDX10. 
  So I might
sell this one - cheap with full disclosure - and get another one.

    I note that California has a "Right to Repair" law.  It was signed by 
the governor
in late 2023.

  "California's Right to Repair Act, SB 244, requires manufacturers to 
provide fair access to documentation, parts, and tools for repairing 
their products. This includes electronic and appliance products 
manufactured after July 1, 2021, and sold or used in California on or 
after that date, with a wholesale cost of $50 or more."

               - Jerry, KF6VB