This paper describes an evaluation method for assessing the effectiveness of using multimedia tools for remote maintenance of production machinery in the automotive sector. The multimedia tools have been developed to support the design implementation and maintenance of a component-based control system for manufacturing machines. Scenario testing has been adopted to assess the possible benefits associated with the use of multimedia tools. It has been found that the multimedia tools are effective in improving the diagnostic capability of the maintenance provider in terms of acquiring better information and reducing the time taken to diagnose the problems. However, there are security, human resource restructuring, maintenance agreement, and training issues associated with the service that must be appreciated prior to large-scale adoption of the technology.
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