All In All, Just Another Dent In The Wall

I haven’t had a good rant in a while. However, most of us can relate to my topic today, so give it a chance.
First, I’ll brag a little. I’ve been working with sophisticated computer software since the early eighties. I taught myself to play the piano. I’m pretty good at solving the New York Times crossword puzzle.
It wasn’t easy, particularly the piano, but I had faith that these things followed logical patterns. So I could assume any anomalies I encountered were part of a larger pattern I wasn’t seeing.

And Yet….

I can’t figure out my “smart” TV. No way, no how, no shit.
Don’t misconstrue. I’m watching and enjoying the streaming networks like most people. With the assistance of a small digital antenna, I’m also able to view regular live “on-air” channels. In addition, I can hook up a DVD player, mirror the screen of my iPad and get great sound through an external sound system combining optical and Bluetooth transmission.

God Does Not Play Dice

But every time, it’s a crap shoot. I just keep pushing buttons on the remote until I get what I want. It can take ten minutes.
Just before Christmas, I was shopping for a new 65-inch TV for my newly renovated basement. A salesman at Best Buy gave me the spiel about spending a thousand dollars more than my stated budget for a higher-quality TV.
“This one has a very high refresh rate and enhanced black ,,,,”
“Stop!” I said, “Is the remote durable?”
“Excuse me, sir?” he seemed baffled.
“How many times can you throw it across the room before it’s toast?”
I asked.
“I’m not sure there’s a function that requires that, sir.”
Why can’t internet providers and TV manufacturers work together to improve this design from hell?
Thanks for listening.