The expectations from a technology guy

Being a technology professional is tough. The laymen expect you to know everything from TVs, DVD players, to cell phones and automobiles. Not only that, we are expected to fix any problems with these devices as well (besides automobiles, as I made it very clear that I am not a motor mechanic).

Recently I had following conversation with a distant relative of mine:

Relative: Hey Umar, can you look at my VCR, it doesn’t seem to work.
Me: Sure thing. Can you explain what’s going on with it?
Relative: It just doesn’t work.
Me: OK. Let’s see what we got here.

(After playing around with VCR controls, and using the experience from my tech support job years ago, I figured out the VCR needed to go to the repair shop)

Me: Well, this looks like a problem with its mechanics or electrical. I suggest you take it to a repair shop.
Relative: What do you mean?
Me: I mean, it’s more than a configuration problem. The thing is broken and needs to be fixed, as in remove the cover and fixed by an expert.
Relative: But that’s why I called you.
Me: I am deeply touched by your trust in me, but it seems like the VCR requires a part replacement or something, and I CANNOT do that.
Relative: Hmm… so where do I take it.
Me: (I suggest you throw it out of the window and get a DVD player) I suggest you take it to Saddar or some place where they fix electronic devices.
Relative: And how much it will cost?
Me: No idea!
Relative: Oh, OK. Thanks anyway.
Me: You are welcome (please don’t bother me again if something breaks in your home).

He must be thinking I am a dumb ass. Can’t blame him.

Good thing I can easily understand the workings of most electronic items so I am able to fix minor issues, but there are times when I am expected to magically repair broken devices.

You all know it doesn’t work that way.