Man, and here all this time I thought he was referring to the different wave patterns of the princesses and queens riding on the floats at the Rose Parade
Really though, some good insights Lawrence, thank you.
And I will jump on the wagon of sales reps overselling. Yes, there are a good many machines available today that can limit your total equipment expense if set up properly, especially for smaller shops with a wide range of applications.
BUT, there will never be a one size fits all, one machine can do it all, this snake oil will cure all of man's ills, welder. And so many of the new toys are just that, toys. Most hobby welders and small shops don't have the time to play and find all the advantages. The supplier won't keep coming around to make sure he knows how to use every function every time they set up for a new job. After a short time the machine gets pushed into some back corner with other tools stacked all over it relegated to tool stand status. And if you want the machine to make your welds good because you can't weld, forget it.
They really need to be careful about their marketing of new items. And customers need to be careful about their buying practices. Don't be hoodwinked.
Now, that doesn't mean that schools and companies that could really benefit from the new research and development should stay away. But they too need to be careful how they spend their money and then have to train people to use the equipment. But our students deserve to be exposed to as much as possible, both old and new equipment. It goes both ways. Teach them nothing but the newest and they make fools of themselves in a lot of tests because they haven't got a clue how to set up the older machines. Or, teach them nothing but new...same story, only reversed.
Just my two tin pennies worth.
He Is In Control, Have a Great Day, Brent