Companies prevent repair by making it physically more difficult to fix items, such as using glue instead of screws, or limiting information they share with consumers, like blocking public access to product information and schematics
The 1790s saw the development of a highly precise lathe, which revolutionized the manufacturing process by allowing for mechanical reproduction of components. This innovation led to the Industrial Revolution, with mass production and readily available interchangeable parts making repairing items relatively easy. Today, interchangeable parts are as important as ever for mass production, but some companies are working hard to prevent consumers from swapping out components on their own. In many cases, repair can only be done by the original manufacturer, resulting in more items being discarded.
Companies prevent repair by making it physically more difficult to fix items, such as using glue instead of screws, or limiting information they share with consumers, like blocking public access to product information and schematics. For example, during the pandemic, iFixit compiled a comprehensive database of repair manuals for hospitals to use, but manufacturers like Steris fought for them to be taken down.
One of the most important ways companies limit repair is by preventing the interchangeability of parts through parts pairings. Companies assign individual parts like screens, batteries, or sensors a unique serial number, which can then detect if those components are replaced and limit their functionality. This can lead to unauthorized replacements that can cause devices to stop functioning altogether.
Manufacturers can also use software to give devices predetermined end-of-life dates, giving manufacturers unprecedented control over the products we buy and limiting the way we repair them. Critics liken these tactics to a form of planned obsolescence, where a product is deliberately designed to fail to keep both demand and profits high.
Companies argue that giving consumers and third-party repair shops access to their software could create cybersecurity risks and that they could be liable if a product malfunctions after a third party or consumer repair. However, major reports from the US Federal Trade Commission and the Food and Drug Administration find little support for these company claims.
Parts pairing and repair-limiting practices are now being closely scrutinized in courts worldwide, as consumers fight for the right to repair. States, including Colorado and Oregon, have passed laws banning parts pairing. Community-led movements have also taken root, with over 2,500 cities establishing repair cafes, where people trade and share knowledge, reinvigorating a culture of repair.
About the Writer
Jenny, the tech wiz behind Jenny's Online Blog, loves diving deep into the latest technology trends, uncovering hidden gems in the gaming world, and analyzing the newest movies. When she's not glued to her screen, you might find her tinkering with gadgets or obsessing over the latest sci-fi release.What do you think of this blog? Write down at the COMMENT section below.
No comments:
Post a Comment