In most cases, no.

I like helping people, but remotely guiding people I don’t know through complex technical work that I’m not being formally engaged and paid to undertake is not my idea of a good time!

The people who ask this of me, and the related “Can you tell my technician what parts to use?“, often attempt to misuse our advisory service under the mistaken belief they are ‘entitled’ to assistance, and so these days I avoid all such potentially compromising and unpaid work.

There are four reasons I prefer to work hands-on:

1. I don’t want to guide anyone into a situation where they hurt themselves or their equipment. Attempting to describe concepts/processes, assess/measure parts, and use test and measurement equipment and soldering tools while keeping someone who likely doesn’t understand the dangers of electronics safe is simply not sensible. I can’t imagine why anyone would want to take on that risk.
2. Most equipment owners lack the equipment, knowledge, parts and skills needed to undertake electronic work, guided or otherwise. Much better to take it to a skilled professional.
3. People often don’t realise that electronics repair can be time-consuming and expensive and it can be MORE time-consuming and expensive when guiding someone unfamiliar with it. The equipment owner has to pay for that time, but may not be capable of repairing their equipment.
4. I must safeguard my IP and proprietary solutions, many of which I’ve developed from scratch. My work is already copied without attribution or remuneration and often for commercial gain. I love helping people, but not my competitors!

I encourage local, hands-on specialist assistance as the best option in most cases, assuming that such individuals exist. For those needing assistance who cannot bring equipment to me and cannot find any local specialist help, our paid advisory service may be able to help. I make no promises but you are welcome to ask.