Purchasing refurbished test equipment is a great way to get the latest technology or the previous generation technology at a significant discount off the cost of new equipment. Today most reputable refurbished test equipment providers offer the same quality and warranty as new equipment. However unlike buying new equipment there are significant differences in the equipment quality and service levels of refurbished electronic test equipment vendors. The industry is populated with a wide range of suppliers from companies operating out of their garage to large suppliers operating out of large facilities with industry leading calibration labs. When buying used equipment the vendor you select should weigh as much into your decision as the equipment selection.
Top 10 things to consider when buying used electronic test equipment.
1. Are calibration certificates being included with every piece of equipment? Are ISO 17025 or ANSI Z540 available? What is the reputation of the calibration lab being used?
2. Is the equipment meticulously refurbished to look and operate like new and are all of the original OEM provided accessories included?
3. Can the vendor confirm the firmware levels and serial numbers of the actual equipment you are buying? Is the equipment firmware updated to the latest version? If the vendor cannot confirm these details beware! The vendor likely does not actually have the equipment in stock and plans to find it after receipt of your purchase order.
4. Does the equipment include a parts and labor warranty of at least 1 year?
5. Is an evaluation period offered with your purchase where if for any reason you’re not completely satisfied with your equipment you can return it for a complete refund?
6. Can the equipment be delivered to your door the next day?
7. Can you get a knowledgeable support rep on the phone 24/7/365?
8. How reputable is the vendor? How long has the vendor owned the equipment and how has it been maintained during its life?
9. Is free financing available?
10. Will the supplier provide an opportunity to trade in your idle equipment for credit towards your purchase?
Tips we can deliver on are provided by Accu-PLUS pre-owned equipment from TRS-RenTelco. Quality used equipment at a fraction of the price! TRS-RenTelco is the largest supplier of electronic test equipment for rent, lease or sale in North America. For over 30 years TRS-RenTelco has supported the telecommunications, R&D, semiconductor and wireless industries around the world with their vast inventory of electronic test equipment.