This is just a data point for those unfortunate enough to require
factory service on your scopes.

I killed my LX200 electronics (shorted the battery charger) over the
Thanksgiving weekend. After discussing the proplem with John Piper, I
sent the scope to Meade via UPS (cost $54).

Meade charges a flat $200 to repair any/all electronic problems; this
includes the return shipment. I gave John a credit card number when I
called him - but the charge did not get posted to my Visa until after
the scope was repaired.

I tracked the package from my dropoff point in Arlington, Tex to Irvine,
CA using the UPS tracking web site (http://www.ups.com) It took 7
calendar days for ground transportation. Note: I have the hard case,
but had thrown the cardboard box away. I had to fabricate an new
cardboard cover (hardly call it a "box") from an old refrigirator box.
Lesson-keep your box!

John told me it would take approximately 30 days to repair the scope. I
was not sure whether this included the transportation time or not.

I was pleasantly surprised to get my scope back the day or two before
New Years; it was shipped to California on Dec 4th. I think a 3 week
turnaround in the middle of the holidays is outstanding.

Randy Smith
Arlington, Texas

PS: the scope works well, however, El Nino has brought constant clouds
to Texas for the last week. I wonder if I can blame El Nino for my
original scope problem.

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