Attempt low-tech electronic repairs yourself when appropriate

Problem: Often when a machine doesn’t work, an inexperienced operator will give up and assume the item is broken forever or call in an expensive repair.

Solution: Try simple repairs (fuses, cooling fans, plugged lines, poor connections), reading the manual, or exploratory maintenance. Call customer service or a UCSB equipment engineer for advice. Buy things that can be fixed and have replaceable parts or blades. Turn it off; wait 30 seconds; turn it on.

Benefits: You may save money, time and materials.

Costs: Minor parts may be available for free in the electronics shop. Be careful you don’t get in over your head and damage something! Maintenance and simple repair is an art.