I have read this thread, and the original thread that prompted this discussion. As a designer working in this industry for more than 20 years, I feel compelled to comment.

First of all, Erik was neither unethical nor unprofessional. These are very strong accusations. His answer may have been incorrect, but it was certainly not intentionally misleading. His advice to contact the company FAE was both usual and appropriate, since the company is in the best position to provide the answer that you seek.

Now for the definition of "cheap". You said that this is relative, not absolute. Needham is "cheap" relative to Data I/O, BP Micro, and others. If cheap is to be relative, then you have to identify what it is relative to. Since you did not provide this reference point ("free" is unrealistic and therefore doesn't count), I would say that his answer was both correct and appropriate.

If your time is so valuable that you don't want it wasted, then you should appreciate and be thankful for others taking their valuable time to consider your question and provide an answer.

As the webmaster said, complaining about free solicited advice is not at all appropriate. I fully agree with him.