On 30/5/25 22:24, S. Massy wrote:
Can you tell us something about the reliability of those devices? It has
long been my dream to be able to read books on a multiline display but
even my current standard braille display can't go for more than three
months before needing some cell repairs. Also, any info on portability
and battery life?
As far as i know, only the hardware manufacturers and major distributors
would have reliability data for a large sample of devices, and I'm sure
that information is confidential. In short, we in the general public
don't know anything about reliability apart from anecdotal reports on
mailing lists or other fora.
According to an online presentation about the Monarch from Quantum RLV
in Australia, there is a tool that can be used (presumably at service
facilities) to replace cells individually. In some countries, a hardware
maintenance contract can be purchased that takes effect once the
warranty has expired. For such a valuable product, this may well be
worth the investment.
Battery life of the Monarch is reputedly excellent, up to a full day of use.
Regarding devices from other manufacturers in the same general category,
I think it is reasonable to expect each cell technology to have its own
reliability characteristics. I also agree that hardware reliability is
very important, especially in view of the prices of refreshable braille
cells. Total cost of ownership is the relevant measure to consider.
While the up-front purchase price matters, the total cost of ownership,
including maintenance and repair costs, gives an estimate of your entire
investment over the life of a device.
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