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> We could insist on a right to repair, open standards, etc The advantage older equipment has is that a generalist can repair it because the equipment is fairl
by ogre_codes 7y ago
> We could insist on a right to repair, open standards, etc
The advantage older equipment has is that a generalist can repair it because the equipment is fairly simple and well understood. Parts on older equipment are easier to source or sometimes can be fabricated by the farmer themselves. Newer equipment has tighter tolerances and components are more difficult to fabricate or repair. Computerized components require special tools to interact with and specific knowledge to configure. Newer equipment is more complex and thus more difficult to diagnose and repair.
Right to repair won't fix that. Regulations aren't going to make manufacturers return to having simpler machines, it can only force them to make the knowledge required to repair those machines public. If need a left-handed knurled whats-it to remove a part or a special diagnostics tool to service the electronics, regulations might force the companies provide documentation and sell those tools, but it won't remove the need for those special tools and domain expertise.
The only real way to change this would be for a manufacturer to pivot to selling field serviceable equipment which seems unlikely.
- rtkwe 7y agoSpecifically though on tractors we're seeing companies essentially DRMing replacement parts. Farmers etc can easily find and install parts but then the computer controller will not recognize the replacement or won't reset from the error condition.
- ogre_codes 7y agoYeah, that's something regulations can handle (and should).
- enknamel 7y agoI would like to move towards informed consent. A product should clearly state that it only accept OEM parts VS it will accept any replacement parts or only certified parts. Or that is unrepairable or only repairable by the manufacturer or can be repaired by anyone. Heck think about printers. I would gladly only purchase printers that take ink or toner without chips only.