Generally, it is a good idea to have a local Authorized Service Center for your purchase. This is not always possible, so you should know what the other options might be as well. For products that can be shipped there are some very good large service centers (like United Radio Service in Syracuse, NY) that cover many brands. There are also national contractors (e.g. Decision One) that provide service in many areas for manufacturers where they do not have ASCs.
It is a good idea to get to know the local servicers as much as you can. Consider who does the service in your area and what brands and types of products they service. Call around and see what they service and if they will discuss the brand that you are considering. Keep in mind that techs are often busy and you may not get someone who knows much. They might also give you a recommendation for a brand that they like because it makes them lots of $$. Take all input carefully. Check with the local BBB for complaints. Ask around about their reputation. Check out policies, turn around time (TAT), estimate fees, pickup and delivery fees, service call charges, etc.
Another place to get feed back is on forums that technicians frequent. Some places to start would be
http://www.circuitwork.com/techassist/smf/
or
sci.electronics.repair on usenet
Remember, you will hear about complaints and problems much more often than you will hear the positives. People don't generally post that nothing broke or that their lamp lasted 10,000 hours, so keep what you hear and read in perspective.
05-23-06, 09:37 PM
Advertisement 
