When a piece of equipment malfunctions, the proper response is to kick it as soon as possible in the hope that it rectifies the problem.
How expensive the equipment is and the time it would take a
technician to arrive, however short, are
irrelevant.
It is usually only succeeds in worsening the problem, however, most techs
appreciate the user trying at least some form of repair themselves. Hence, the rule.
McCoy: Chalmers, the
transmitter is down again.
Chalmers: What were you doing?
McCoy: Trying to
make a call.
Chalmers: Then
what did you do?
McCoy: Emergency repair procedure #1
Chalmers: You kicked it?
McCoy: Yep.
Chalmers: Well, at least you tried something.
