Jim, These are not specialized computers, per se. They are turn key systems *optimized* for real-time performance needed to run PowerSDR. It takes a bit of "customization" to do that no mater if you have an existing PC or one you get from Neal. Whether or not you need these optimizations isn't a black and white issue and FlexRadio has provided a plethora of information in their Knowledge Center for assisting people who need to optimize their systems. There is no deception going on here.
99% of peoples existing PCs will work just fine. Some people who are not that computer savvy and do not want to or can't perform those customizations themselves need an alternative. Just like yourself as you noted below. You had a friend help out and were fortunate. Others are not so fortunate and this is an option for those people so they don't miss out on what a wonderful radio this is. Here is the problem with dealing with Dell. Dell can't spec a machine where they can guarantee that it will have the same components in it from one production build to the next. In addition, a lot of the software Dell loads on a PC is the root cause for why one performs so poorly for real-time applications. FlexRadio tried this years ago with Dell when they sold the SDR-1000 and it didn't work out that well from a business perspective, noted by the fact that they no longer in the business of selling PCs. -Tim -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of AB2CD Sent: Monday, August 10, 2009 3:40 PM To: [email protected] Subject: [SPAM] [Flexradio] Special computer You could be scaring away would be Flex purchasers with all this talk about needing a specialized or custom designed computer to run a Flex. I feel Flex would do well to get with Dell and spec out a machine that has been tested by Flex and works. I am sure Neal can put together an outstanding optimized machine, but Neal Computer is not exactly a household name. Whereas Dell is and provides local customer support. If the Flex needs a custom designed computer in order to run properly, Flex needs to tell people upfront. Again, the idea (whether it's true or false) that one needs a custom computer to run a Flex is enough for some to come to the conclusion that the Flex is an experimental radio for people who like to build their own computers. Also, it may be worth Flex to consider building localized networks of Flex operators who are able to assist those who need help in initially setting up the radio. For some (and that includes me), it was not exactly plug-n-play. I love my Flex, but had I not had help setting it up it would have been returned and a refund sought. That would have been a double tragedy because I would have missed out on the best radio on the market and Flex would have lost a sale. For what it's worth. Jim AB2CD _______________________________________________ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List [email protected] http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ Message delivered to [email protected] _______________________________________________ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List [email protected] http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ Message delivered to [email protected]
