[BC] Do We Still Like Our Jobs?

[Donna Halper]

>Jim wrote--
>Soldered-in custom integrated circuits are becoming so very common now,
>as are machines with proprietary software embedded in them, that changing
>out a weak tube is a thing of the past.  Sometimes the best option is to 
>change
>out a weak board or even a weak machine.

That was one thing that puzzled me-- I am of course a non-engineer, but as 
a consultant, I've had the privilege of working with several outstanding 
engineers.  As we have moved more towards automation equipment and music on 
hard drive, I am curious about whether local engineers are permitted to fix 
something if it goes wrong, or do they have to contact the company that 
made the equipment?  I assume if it's a minor problem, it can be fixed 
locally and quickly, but I could be wrong.