Howdy Dan!
All good points, I'll try to give a quick but complete answer.
With examples like that USB power meter, I generally try to use alternate product names in the product description so that the item will show up in search. I changed the product description to include that phrase—so hopefully this particular problem is fixed..
In general, we definitely need to do more to make products more discoverable. We are in the midst of two giant projects that will help solve this problem. First, we are switching to a new “Product Information Management” system that will greatly increase our options and flexibility with product data. And second, we’re working on a replacement for iFixit’s internal search engine. These are huge changes that will dramatically improve our product catalog and customer experience.
Good catch on that guide. Not only were those fans inappropriate to have listed on that particular guide—they aren’t even compatible with the device! And I think that lower case was imported from the prerequisite guide—and shouldn’t be on this guide either. I went ahead and removed the guide links.
In general, I try to place all parts in our catalog on a guide. Sometimes that means putting an odd bracket or screw set on a guide that best features the removal or installation of that individual part (even if the guide isn’t explicitly about that part). There's certainly a spectrum of appropriateness—but I think that we generally get it right. (And if you disagree, please let me know. And point me at some examples if possible.)
Thanks for lookin out!
