I dunno, we've all had computers running new cars since the 1980's and it's been working out ok. When's the last time one of you got stranded on the side of the road due to a cpu failure? Just saying.
Sure, I understand, saws are different. I own three saws without Autotune/M-Tronic/etc and while I appreciate the simplicity at times- they definitely need adjusting depending if it's 25 degrees out or 95 degrees out (and we do get a lot of wild temp swings in New England). The average person doesn't have the ability or knowledge to deal with carb tuning and adjustment anymore. Even arborists and people who make their living with saws often aren't familiar with them and technical schools that teach auto techs don't even dive into carb theory or repair anymore. Carbs are ancient technology and we've been trying to get away from them since the 1950's. Anyone remember fuel injected corvettes from the 60's?
New technology is always buggy at the outset, but eventually it becomes ironed out and widespread. Having seen a newer saw plugged into a computer I think there's more to gain than lose. Seeing run time, the % of time spent at various rpms, fuel calibration etc is all helpful. More importantly, the saw adjusting for temp and required air fuel mix is going to lead to a longer lasting saw. If you get a small seal leak somewhere the computer may just bail you out as well.
I think a sophisticated fuel injection system is eventually the way all the saws will go (that still run on gas). The potential for fuel savings, more ideal mixture, longer life, more power, etc are important. Even Honda has started fuel injecting it's small generators and adding bluetooth. Run times are incredible and 5 gallons powers a 7000 watt generator all day.
I'll still collect and embrace the classics, but recognize that the page needs to turn. I reckon no one misses the hand crank for their car engines, hand operated windshield wipers or lighting headlights that run on whale oil.
