News for hackers. Stuff that matters.
Re:The big automotive semiconductor problem by HeyLaughingBoy on Thursday March 31, 2022 @12:12PM (#30868825)
Interesting question.

* it's surprising how many dishwashers still use spring-loaded timers to sequence their operations. Although at this point mine is 19 years old so maybe that doesn't count.

* Likewise, my iron filter is sequenced by a mechanical timer (run off an electric motor), but my water softener's controller is fully electronic.

* A lot of houses still have mechanical mercury thermostats.

* The flush valve in your toilet tank is completely mechanical and surprisingly complex. Once you take it completely apart you realize that there's more to it than just a float that shuts off a valve.

* I'm always amazed by the centrifugal clutches in weed whackers and small gas-powered lawn appliances.

Should be more things I can come up with...

Re:The big automotive semiconductor problem by linksnapzz on Thursday March 31, 2022 @08:50PM (#30874020)
A lot of houses still have mechanical mercury thermostats.

yeah, the houses that have heat. ask an HVAC guy about the new digital thermostats. I'm not even talking about the Nest etc. smart home ones, just the basic new digital ones that croak after three years. Keep the mercury-switch ones as long as you can.

Re:The big automotive semiconductor problem by chmod600 on Thursday March 31, 2022 @12:22PM (#30868989)
Toilets are a great example, thank you.