IT, telecommunications, broadcasting and consumer electronic equipment have all become, cheaper, more compact and more complex. In most cases a series of electronic functions are performed by a piece of integrated equipment or 'black box'. If a 'black box' fails, it is now commonplace to replace it with a new unit rather than attempt to repair it. Due to the relatively low cost of modular 'black boxes', the difficulties and expense of dealing with ever miniaturising components as well as the need for quick rectification of problems, replacement is rapidly becoming the preferred remedy for a fault. Another factor in this trend, is the overall improvement in the reliability of electronic equipment.
Replacement is a much more valid option, since equipment failure is becoming a rarer occurrence.
As a consequence of the reduction of equipment costs, rapid technological advances and better reliability, equipment is now often replaced because of its perceived obsolescence rather than its dysfunction. The 'black box' approach is altering the roles of those involved in IT and T engineering and operations in several ways. Generally, contemporary equipment requires much less maintenance attention, while repair is often rejected in favour of replacement. It is still important for technicians to understand what functions the 'black box' performs and how to determine whether or not it is operating correctly. However, the task of pulling the unit apart to rectify the fault is becoming an ever-shrinking part of the job.