I’ve been holding off upgrading my desktop computer for almost eight
years. However, after a few
operating system upgrades and
countless security updates, my
computer can’t even keep up with
my modest typing speed.
Even so, I’m considering
stripping the software and starting
over with a minimal system and a
few key applications in hopes of
regaining some performance.
So, why go through all that
hassle — especially since new
desktop computers can be had for a
few hundred dollars? Because of the
cost of software — and lack of
control.
When I purchased my ancient
desktop computer, I also purchased
a half dozen key software packages
on CD-ROM — a word processor,
vector drawing program,
spreadsheet, and a couple simulation
applications.
Granted, the legal jargon on the
packages stated that I purchased a
license to use the software contained
on the discs and there was no
warranty of any sort as to its
usefulness for any purpose, etc.
Even so, there was the initial cost
of the software on CDs, amortized
over the life of the computer. In my
case, that initial cost was spread out
over eight years.
If you’ve moved to a new
computer system recently, you’re
probably painfully aware of the new
software subscription model, in
which you pay a monthly or annual
fee for a license.
Looking at my core set of six
applications, my annual software
costs — based on the new
subscription model — will come to
approximately four times the cost of
my computer hardware. That may
make for a great profit model for the
software companies, but it rubs me
the wrong way.
I understand the monthly
subscription model for phone
connectivity, news feeds, and other
services that require a company to
continually invest in supporting me.
However, the marginal cost for an
additional subscriber for the software
giants has to be measured in the
tenths of a cent.
What concerns me is the future
of electronics in general. Years ago, I
was among the proponents of the
coming wave of software radios and
other programmable hardware. Why
solder when you can reconfigure a
device in software? Well, it all makes
sense — unless, of course, every
electronic device becomes a
subscription service.
In a way, a multi-function
smartphone approaches this model,
at least to the extent that you need
an Internet connection for
functionality.
I’m concerned, though, about
the evolution of my microcontroller
controlled devices. Heck, even my
hot air desoldering station could one
day require a monthly fee to keep it
live on the cloud.
Suddenly, the Internet of Things
(IoT) takes on a new meaning — the
possibility of a monthly “keep alive”
fee for everything — from my smart
clothes to my automated thermostat
system.
I’m no Luddite, but suddenly, my
“real” electronics gadgets and
instruments look more appealing.
There’s something about the feel of
real components — components that
I can replace if defective — that
leaves me with a feeling of certainty
and control. Like my old fashioned
tube-type amplifier.
It may not have the Internet
connectivity of my iPad and iPhone,
but it’s worked just fine for 50+
years. I doubt that anyone will want
my iPhone in five years — especially
if they have to pay a fee simply to
turn it on.
What’s your feeling about “real”
electronics vs. the seemingly
inevitable wave of electronics
through programming? NV
Published Monthly By
T & L Publications, Inc.
430 Princeland Ct.
Corona, CA 92879-1300
(951) 371-8497
FAX (951) 371-3052
Webstore orders only 1-800-783-4624
www.nutsvolts.com
Subscription Orders
Toll Free 1-877-525-2539
Outside US 1-818-487-4545
P.O. Box 15277
North Hollywood, CA 91615
FOUNDER
Jack Lemieux
PUBLISHER
Larry Lemieux
publisher@nutsvolts.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER/
ADVERTISING SALES
Robin Lemieux
robin@nutsvolts.com
EDITOR
Bryan Bergeron
techedit-nutsvolts@yahoo.com
VP OF OPERATIONS
Vern Graner
vern@nutsvolts.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Fred Eady Kristen McIntyre
Lou Frenzel Paul Verhage
Chuck Hellebuyck David Goodsell
George Steber Matt Maxwell
Richard Levergood Maria Panacopoulos
Clark Hamilton Eric Bogatin
CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT
subscribe@nutsvolts.com
SHOW COORDINATOR
Audrey Lemieux
WEBSTORE MARKETING
COVER GRAPHICS
Brian Kirkpatrick
sales@nutsvolts.com
WEBSTORE MANAGER/
PRODUCTION
Sean Lemieux
sean@nutsvolts.com
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Re Gandara
Copyright © 2017 by T & L Publications, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
All advertising is subject to publisher’s approval. We
are not responsible for mistakes, misprints, or
typographical errors. Nuts & Volts Magazine assumes
no responsibility for the availability or condition of
advertised items or for the honesty of the advertiser.
The publisher makes no claims for the legality of
any item advertised in Nuts & Volts. This is the sole
responsibility of the advertiser. Advertisers and their
agencies agree to indemnify and protect the publisher
from any and all claims, action, or expense arising from
advertising placed in Nuts & Volts. Please send all
editorial correspondence, UPS, overnight mail, and
artwork to: 430 Princeland Court, Corona, CA 92879.
by
Bryan
Bergeron,
Editor DEVELOPING
PERSPECTIVES
Real Electronics
June 2017 5