Comment Typical component obsolescense case ? (Score 2) 147
It's not always possible to get the electronic or electromechanical components for designs that are 10 yrs old. Especially in niche designs, where special components are needed for which there is only 1 manufacturer. Also, it may be possible to get a component from the manufacturer, but only if you buy 10000 pieces.
Also, 10 years IS a long time for an electronics design. How many devices do you use at home which are that old ? For consumer products like TVs, or industrial products, manufacturers have experience with several generations of such product to improve it. Not so for innovative or experimental products.