We've seen many examples of "lifetime" warranties that are only good for the lifetime of the product, however short that may prove to be. Now a reader reports that memory vendor PNY Technologies' warranty appears to last only as long as you hold onto the product receipt.
"About one week ago I purchased a PNY 256MB PC133 SIMM memory module that failed a memory test after it was installed in my computer," wrote the reader. "In getting them to issue an RMA number, I learned something very interesting about the PNY warranty. The package states 'Lifetime Warranty,' but you need proof of purchase in order to get a defective module repaired under warranty. The instructions that are attached to the copy of the RMA number sent to me by e-mail state very clearly that:
'A copy of the proof of purchase, evidencing the date of purchase (sales receipt or invoice), along with the defective product must be included in that package. Your RMA parcel will be returned to you if the proof of purchase is not included.'
"So, I guess the 'lifetime' is not the lifetime of the purchaser or the memory module but the lifetime of the paper receipt that you get and better keep FOREVER," noted the reader, who fortunately still had his receipt for the purchase. "The package mentions the need for proof of purchase to get warranty replacement only in the small print inside the package insert, which many people do not read in detail. So most people would not know about this provision until it was too late. I bet this saves PNY a lot if money in warranty replacements. Seems like a sham to me."
12:11:35 AM 
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