It seems like I need to make a change in my tools if I am going to have any success in my projects. I was hoping that I would never need to go this route but I think it's called for now.

It's not optimal at all and I'd rather have a useable device the same as it was from the store. Enter different controllers, protocols and interfaces if needed. If the controllers aren't IP then the protocol is IP and maybe both of the above with the interface being IP.

At least it won't be challenged. Refuse to play their game. I'm going to revisit some former projects and see how valid they could be. I'm not above using a scalpel on traces or removing components. It's time to check them again.