- #1
redgoat
- 37
- 0
Should every hareware circuit designer be able to repair computer hardware systems?
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around whether every hardware circuit designer should possess the ability to repair computer hardware systems. It explores the relationship between circuit design and hardware troubleshooting, considering various factors that may influence this capability.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that while hardware circuit designers should be able to understand and diagram a computer system, this does not necessarily imply they can troubleshoot software-related issues.
- One participant mentions that physical limitations, such as "chubby fingers," can hinder the ability to repair hardware, highlighting the practical challenges involved.
- Another viewpoint emphasizes that the proprietary nature of modern hardware can complicate repairs, suggesting that human factors may be more significant than technical skills.
- There is a discussion about the increasing importance of software in hardware repair, with a participant questioning the relevance of hardware knowledge if one is not also skilled in software troubleshooting.
- One participant points out that hardware issues can manifest as software problems, making it difficult to diagnose the root cause, such as flaky RAM or RF interference affecting WiFi.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing opinions on the necessity and feasibility of hardware circuit designers being able to repair computer hardware. There is no consensus on whether this skill should be expected or is achievable.
Contextual Notes
Some assumptions about the nature of hardware and software interactions remain unexamined, and the discussion does not resolve the complexities involved in troubleshooting hardware issues that may appear as software problems.
- #2
berkeman
Admin
- 69,609
- 25,268
Depends on what you mean by "repair computer hardware systems". IMO, every hardware circuit designer should be able to draw a block diagram of a computer system, and then fill in the blocks down to the logic level. That doesn't mean that s/he would necessarily be able to troubleshoot a flaky Win NT installation on a PC, however. Why do you ask the question?
- #3
wolram
Gold Member
Dearly Missed
- 4,411
- 551
Chubby fingers are a handicap.redgoat said:
- #4
Ouabache
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 1,349
- 10
Wasn't redgoat was referring to computer hardware?berkeman said:
IMO, It would not be an automatic understanding or skill. It would take a willingness on their part, to learn about the components involved. However I believe it would be easier for a hardware circuit designer to learn how to repair computer hardware, than the average layperson. After all, a PC is just a system of modular circuits. (understandably "chubby fingers" can make it more challenging
)- #5
Kenneth Mann
- 424
- 3
The answer is NO!, because in this case your main impediment is human nature, and not the actual circuitry itself. Brand level manufacturers do all they can to make their equipment proprietary and hide its design from you, unless you are one of their assets. You can always get around that, but in most cases why put up with the hassle? Also, repairing computer hardware is becoming more and more a case of working with the software, and unless that is your specialty, why should you bother with it?
KM
KM
- #6
berkeman
Admin
- 69,609
- 25,268
Yes, but I was referring to how flaky hardware problems can cause OS weird behavior that is really hard to track down. I probably didn't word it in the best way, though. Like, when you have some flaky bits in your RAM, and that shows up as occasional blue screens or program/OS crashes. Very hard to figure out. Or when you have an intermittant RF impairment that steps on your WiFi install sometimes, and causes problems that look like a software or OS issue.Ouabache said:Wasn't redgoat was referring to computer hardware?