@superwarp1 posted:Well I’m going to be hard on MTH. Yes it’s a cost savings canceling the remote but they redesigned it for the production run last winter. Why not keep making it. Theirs still demand.
For all we know, the remote is based around a PIC or microprocessor that is was discontinued a while ago (like 4-5 years ago when they started to warn customers) and there are no equivalents being produced. Couple that with a software code base that is tied to that particular architecture and the programming tools that supported it, it could be a significant lift to both redesign the hardware AND software.
The redesign they did last year was only for a different thumbwheel from what I remember. They were probably using the remaining stock on the other parts for the rest of the remote, or some leftovers they found somewhere.
Electronic parts supply chain logistics are extremely difficult. I do repairs for vintage electronics I collect, and when it comes to anything semiconductor wise, I have to stay on my toes since a part can change without much warning. Then I have to start researching a suitable replacement, which can take a while. Mind you, I do it as a hobby - imagine trying to do it and slap a warrantee on it and continue to support it.
Do you have any expensive audio electronics at home with one of those blue dot matrix or segmented displays? Those are called vacuum fluorescent displays and after about 5-10 years there’s little to no chance you’ll find a replacement for them. And while they’re very durable, they do fade/dim and wear out.
I think Lionel Legacy owners will be in the same boat with their remotes eventually too if a key part is discontinued. Why redesign the software AND hardware when you can just design the software and let the big tech companies worry about sourcing parts and all the vertical integration problems.
