[BC] Providing schematics

[Mark W. Croom]

There are others on this list more knowledgeable than I, but it was my
perception from the last discussion I was in on (probably on Radio-Tech) that
the legal departments and insurance companies of larger manufacturers were
recommending they don't do anything to encourage their end users to service
their gear, like providing schematic diagrams.

The redeeming thing about the B-Tools stuff is that they use pretty standard
parts for the audio sections and switching. I would think it couldn't be that
hard to figure out what's going on in those boxes with a signal genny and a
scope. 

Over the years I have vascillated a little on this issue, usually leaning
toward "Give me my schematic!" but I guess I no longer have the energy to buck
trends that are much bigger than my preferences. I am more concerned about the
manufacturers who are providing only electronic documentation unless you pay
extra. We've hashed that out on the list before, too, and I'm having trouble
giving up my preference for hard copy documentation I can take into the
"library" with me  :-)

Mark
MN


---------- Original Message -----------
From: "Dana  Puopolo" <dpuopolo at usa.net>
To: "Broadcasters' Mailing List" <broadcast at radiolists.net>
Sent: Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:52:17 -0400
Subject: [BC] Providing schematics

> Broadcast Tools doesn't provide a schematic of the unit, just a "functional
> diagram" which basically shows hook up instructions, so I emailed 
> them to get one. They refused to provide one to me! In fact, 
> apparently they don't provide ANY schematics of ANY products to ANYONE!
> 
> I have a REAL problem with this! Am I justified? Shouldn't broadcast 
> equipment manufacturers provide schematics of their equipment so 
> station engineers can repair the equipment THEY own? I know that 
> most DO provide schematics. Is Broadcast Tools in the wrong here or 
> am I simply being too anal over this?
> 
> Comments?
> 
> -D
>