Links to the various subsections and notes are at upper right of this page. For my comments and the disclaimer, read on.
We live in a throw-away society where it is cheaper to replace broken electronics and appliances than repair them. Indeed, most new products are designed with obsolesence and failure in mind. This is an irresponsible attitude, particularly with respect to the environment, but also with respect to our income. Philosophy aside, I enjoy keeping electronic equipment going long past its "useful" lifespan.
The repairs outlined in this section require simple hand tools and test equipment that is within the reach of almost anyone who is interested. That said, there are a number of amateur radio operators who believe that simply because they are hams they have an innate superhuman ability to repair radios. This is, of course, baloney. The only way to learn is to do it. If you have never repaired anything before:
- Learn how to solder! This is extremely important.
- Buy a digital multimeter. It doesn't have to be fancy. Mine cost $10 at a hamfest and I've replaced the battery twice in ten years.
- Get as much information and documentation on the device you are repairing before taking it apart.
- Start with something inexpensive that you won't care if you screw up.
- Recognize in advance that it may take you hours, days, weeks, or even months, to repair something and even then, you might not save any money.
- Have someone [an elmer] to go to if you get stuck.
Disclaimer: things can and do go wrong when you do repair work. I hereby disclaim all responsibility for any losses or injury as a direct or incidental result of performing the repairs described on this web site.