My point is that because several manufacturers REFUSE to make service information available - repair centres are FORCED to repair to module level. This is not necessary if the service info and parts are available.
Panasonic's method of operating is totally different. Firstly - there is service info for EVERY model. Secondly, the repairer can repair to component level - and Panasonic tech support will provide backup if required. Individual components are available, and this enables a cost effective repair to be carried out.
If the repair centre is not feeling very confident about a component level repair, then a module level repair is acceptable. The defective PCB is returned for a partial credit -and Panasonic expects this discount to be passed onto the customer. This applies to out of warranty repairs, and is written into the service centres contract.
If we come across a part that we require that isn't yet listed as a spare (because no one has had the need to replace it in the UK) then spares will add it to the inventory within a day or two, and we can then place an order for it.
Why replace an entire PCB when the defective component may be relatively low cost ?
This (to my mind) sets Panasonic way above the competition from a service perspective. No other manufacturer has gone down this route to this extent.
Most (as you say) require modules (or complete pcb's) to be replaced which makes many repairs un-economic. This just increases landfill, and negates the customers overall opinion of the brand. We've had some unbelievable parts quotes from Fujitsu, NEC, Pioneer etc. Many of their parts prices are over 200% more expensive than Panasonic.
As for shipping heavy plasma displays around the country because the manufacturer doesn't have a network of approved repairers, it's a farce. Can you seriously expect a customer to keep a huge cardboard box for several years ? I asked Fujitsu if we could become an authorised repairer for them, as they didnt appear to have anyone outside of their own central repair facility available. I got no reply - even though I had previously communicated with their Service Director over another issue. That's how interested they are in getting customers problems resolved.
Your experiences with plasma repair are sadly, way too common. The reason for this is NOT due to the repair centre. Responsibilty must lie solely with the manufacturer and their service policy.
If more manufacturers took a pro-active stance, and followed the Panasonic DSN model, many more plasma and LCD sets would be repaired, and at reasonable cost.
