Troubleshooting tips

My cable box won't turn on.

Check to see that the unit is plugged in to a working AC outlet.

Such is the typical first response to a reported problem. Like we're all idiots and each problem is just a one off affecting only one user. I read a response from a moderator saying the we are just a "vocal minority". Were the people who reported their Bridgestone tires blowing up just a vocal minority? Were the people reporting their Toyota's accelerator sticking just a vocal minority?

I suppose if design- challenged cable boxes aren't actually killing people you can get away with it. And I'd imagine most people experiencing problems are not even aware that this forum exists to tell the world of their displeasure.

Sometimes companies just have to face the fact that there's a problem with their product.