HACKER Q&A
📣 jaimebw

How can I revitalize a device that has lost support?


Hi there, I've got a situation that's been bugging me and could use your help. My dad, who's a medical expert, bought a 3M machine about eight years ago, and it was doing great until it suddenly stopped working. He reached out to 3M, but they dropped the bombshell that they no longer support it. The kicker is that the software needs to connect to an external API to do its thing, but all the processing is done directly on the device.

Now, we're talking about a hefty investment of around $30,000 here, so I'm determined to find a way to get this machine back up and running. The problem is, I'm a total newbie when it comes to this stuff. That's why I'm turning to you guys for any pointers, guides, or even stories about similar cases that might shed some light on what to do.

Thanks a bunch in advance for your help!

  👤 GianFabien Accepted Answer ✓
I just downloaded and read: https://multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/921859O/3m-true-definiti...

I get the impression that 3M provided a range of services in conjunction with the scanner product. From that I assume that most of the processing was being performed on 3M SaaS servers. Which in turn suggests that raw scan data was being sent to 3M and various outputs sent back.

So I think you have yet another example of planned obsolescence, just like your iPhone, etc.

👤 jgrahamc
It might be possible to revitalize it by spying on what it is doing on the wire. Although if 3M has dropped the API then it might be tough. What's the machine?
👤 GianFabien
"stopped working" is a vague description of the problem. Do the lights come on? etc.

Have you tried Googling the machine's name, model number? There's a chance that that there might be a copy of service manuals somewhere.

Could you fix a broken VCR, DVD player, desktop computer? If not, then it might be better to find a technician who has the essential skills to take a look.