Odd that it died so early. I have a 230 that I use primarily for piecing but the machine I use for FMQ (the heavy stuff) is a 140 that I bought in 2000 and it's still going strong. Even the high intensity light I had put on instead of the regular bulb is still working. Think what it would cost you to buy a comparable machine, how much you use the 240 and its ease of use and reliability compared to a cheaper machine. I'd go for the repair. $279 to replace a board that lasted at least 8 years of possibly heavy use is not bad (although I think it should have lasted longer). The service alone is something that you should do once a year. My Bernina repairman explained that he uses 5 different oils when he cleans and lubricates my machine in lots of places I can't get to. I figure it's worth it as I've had Berninas since 1978, get them regularly serviced and have only had one small spring break (and I was still using it with the broken spring).