26-02-2024, 04:12 PM
(This post was last modified: 26-02-2024, 04:19 PM by CambridgeWorks.)
I suppose back in the day the tv repair man might have a nice little earner on the side.
Today, most is not worth repairing for "customers "assuming the parts are available easily and cheap.
50 years ago it was worth replacing a compressor on a freezer, rather than buy new. Part of my job then. Assuming the rest was ok.
Starting my RAE course age 14, then getting licensed age 15, I was already building psu, tx, atu, amplifiers erptc. I then cut my "mechanics teeth" on first my Lambretta age 16, then my 1959 mini 850. Including engine swaps , fitting electric fan , making intermittent wiper and finaly transisorised capacitor discharge unit. The last being in what was a ww2 RAF intercom unit case. All before the age of 20.
These days, all this electronic work is now done by one of several computers in modern cars.
I wonder if before long they will go the way of some smart electronics, wherby obsolescence is guaranteed by no further software updates being issued. Or, vulnerable, un-repairable modules no longer available, new or used.
I occasionally ponder just what might happen if due to deliberate act or natural event, a few dozen or more satellites were put out of action without warning, together with the internet. Drivers could ask for directions or try and find a paper map. But what about aircraft and ship navigation?
So much relies on complex technology, life would be extremely difficult, if not impossible for many.
So, those tin whiskers, leaky waxies, bulging electrolytics and high value resistors don't seem so bad after all.
At least a lot of us have the expertise and can substitute parts to overcome such problems. Or make modifications. Even if not in a very original looking manner.
I have enough here to tackle almost anything radio or electronic, as long as processors and software are not involved.
Rob
Today, most is not worth repairing for "customers "assuming the parts are available easily and cheap.
50 years ago it was worth replacing a compressor on a freezer, rather than buy new. Part of my job then. Assuming the rest was ok.
Starting my RAE course age 14, then getting licensed age 15, I was already building psu, tx, atu, amplifiers erptc. I then cut my "mechanics teeth" on first my Lambretta age 16, then my 1959 mini 850. Including engine swaps , fitting electric fan , making intermittent wiper and finaly transisorised capacitor discharge unit. The last being in what was a ww2 RAF intercom unit case. All before the age of 20.
These days, all this electronic work is now done by one of several computers in modern cars.
I wonder if before long they will go the way of some smart electronics, wherby obsolescence is guaranteed by no further software updates being issued. Or, vulnerable, un-repairable modules no longer available, new or used.
I occasionally ponder just what might happen if due to deliberate act or natural event, a few dozen or more satellites were put out of action without warning, together with the internet. Drivers could ask for directions or try and find a paper map. But what about aircraft and ship navigation?
So much relies on complex technology, life would be extremely difficult, if not impossible for many.
So, those tin whiskers, leaky waxies, bulging electrolytics and high value resistors don't seem so bad after all.
At least a lot of us have the expertise and can substitute parts to overcome such problems. Or make modifications. Even if not in a very original looking manner.
I have enough here to tackle almost anything radio or electronic, as long as processors and software are not involved.
Rob
