The idea that TT should (could) provide firmware at no cost
forever is, of course flawed from the get-go. There is NO
money coming in to pay for the development. I would have
(and still would) pay for new firmware, just like I pay for
new filters, dial lamps, etc. that I need for my Orion. That
suggestion both here and to TT has brought very negative response. I don't
understand that.
I suspect there is a bigger problem, however. Parts to support
something like the Orion line will not be available forever,
as the technology we have today changes so fast. While I
doubt there will ever be a day when one can't find a 12AU7 for
the ole boat anchor, a display for an Orion will be a tough
item to get in 5 years. Thus, it makes little sense to write
firmware for equipment that will be unusable for hardware
reasons.
I do hope that TT will open the source code and provide info
to allow others to write firmware for the radios. I would bet,
however, that will not happen. Ever.
73
Ralph K8RYU
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