[Icom] Service Manuals on CD

[icom@mailman.qth.net]

AA6DX@pacbell.net wrote:

> The discussion SHOULD include one fact, too ... that in many cases people
>  have their ICOM manual that they have misplaced .. and have in fact bought
>  it in the first place. 


And, to me, this also applies to subsequent owners of that equipment.

I think the "vigilante mentality" that was apparent in an earlier post on 
this subject might have been a little heavy-handed. While I am sure no 
company wants to pass up the opportunity to make a sale, there is also the 
factor of customer goodwill to be considered. And, this is evident from the 
manuals that Icom and Kenwood (and possibly others) have made available for 
download . . . Without cost!

So, if they are "giving" them away, what's the big deal when an enterprising 
individual makes them available on CD for a paltry $9.95? Yes, I know there 
IS a difference in an owner's manual and a service manual but both are 
protected by the same laws. And, what if that particular manual is no longer 
available from manufacturer? Should the consumer be forced to do without 
something they need just because we must follow the letter of the law in 
instances where it makes no sense?

In addition, I seem to remember that Icom was having a difficult time 
delivering quality, original service manuals a while back . . . Complaints 
about 'poor quality copies' were frequent. So, it just might be that they'd 
rather be in the hardware business and not the printing business!

One more thing - How many times have you seen a post here where someone 
offered to copy (or loan for that purpose) an Icom manual. Doesn't that 
amount to the same thing?


Regards,

Bill