End of Life & End of Service Explained

The short answer: no. With third party parts and service options available from companies like Block Imaging, your system will live on years after deemed EOL.

We can't determine how long your system will live after deemed EOL. However, with the help of the used medical imaging industry, it’s safe to say that a piece of equipment can outlast its OEM-designated end of life by several years.

When the parts suppliers that manufacture components for OEMs no longer supply the parts for a particular unit the OEM begins to lean toward dubbing the system EOL. 

Don’t despair just yet. The used parts market is a great place to find reconditioned and tested parts from older equipment. If a model was even moderately successful in establishing an install base, replacement parts can be found from third parties (like Block Imaging) for years after EOL designation.

It is our experience that when the OEM terms their product EOL, their technical support for the unit is generally phased out. The time frame for phase-out varies, but the endgame is the same.

In the event of an OEM phase-out, users can turn to third-party service groups. Just because the OEM new-bloods don’t know your 1996 R/F room doesn’t mean an independent old-timer can’t still keep it kicking!

After the OEM has completed their phase-out, you might find they won't work on a system at all. Once again, the solution for this lies in the wealth of experience available on the third-party market.

Many independent groups are founded by or employ engineers that began their careers in OEM stables working and training on the equipment you’re now having trouble with.