The audio/video business in one in which there is a constant flow of new products. This rapid advancement of technology requires an equally rapid advancement in training technical personnel. Many large manufacturers offer entry-level maintenance training on their products, but these programs may be restricted to authorized resellers of the product line. Hands-on training is unquestionably the best way to learn how to service a given piece of equipment. When a student is allowed to practice a new technique with the supervision of a skilled instructor, the highest level of learning and retention occurs.

Modern computer-based test instruments provide the ability to rapidly transmit data from one location to another. Instruments, such as oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers, are available that can output a waveform or other data to a modem for transmission to a central service facility for analysis. Instead of a single person grappling with a difficult problem, the on-site technician can call on the resources and experience of the service center. Field service, thus, becomes a team effort that includes the technician in the field and the often more experienced service center engineers and staff. Software programs are available to permit test equipment at a remote location to be configured as required, capture data, and transmit that data to the service center for analysis. Teleservicing also makes possible the creation of reference libraries of key waveforms and...