3 ms·

Building "washing machines without chips in them" would be more complex, costly, and time-consuming.

• bluGill 5y ago
  Washing machines without chips existed 60 years ago. Chips are a number of advantages, but mechanical timer washing machines can still be found in operation. (I'm not sure if they are still made, I suspect yes)
  • raxxorraxor 5y ago
    The people that could build mechanical clocks are probably long dead by now, we would need archaeologists to find their fossilized remains. Maybe they left some note somewhere.
    • buescher 5y ago
      We'd just be having a gear shortage or something. The people who can build mechanical clocks are either working on other things or making high-end wristwatches. There are still people inventing new watch movements.
  • derbOac 5y ago
    Yes they are still made. Speed Queen sells them in the US although they try to encourage customers to buy ones with electronic controls and offer a longer warranty on them.
  • a9h74j 5y ago
    We just gave up a machine from the 1950s. The installer for the new machine looked in amazement that the old unit had still been working until recently (a Kenmore). Looking to legislate parts availability for ca 5 years is a step, but IMHO it isn't nearly enough for the long run.
  • userbinator 5y ago
    Indeed, I still use one. The timer contacts need cleaning once in a very long time (depending on usage) but it's been quite reliable and if something breaks I can probably make or find a replacement relatively easily.