Leasing as one means to avert obsolescence

Article Abstract:

Leasing a computer generally does not make good financial sense because users end up paying more than if they had bought the computer outright. Some users are reluctant to buy computers because the systems typically last only two years before requiring an upgrade. The home-based business owner may choose to lease to preserve capital for other uses and to avoid being saddled with a poor choice. A typical contract for a $4,000 computer from a company such as the Leasing Group would cost $145 a month for 36 months and give users the option of buying the computer for 10% of its original price at the end of the term. The 36 months will have cost $5,220 and buying the PC will bring the total to $5,620. Users who choose to buy a computer using a credit card or a card financed by the vendor will almost inevitably end up owing more on the PC than it is worth, because of the rapid drop in computer prices and the frequent innovations in technology.

Author: Lewis, Peter H.
Computers, Contracts, Market trend/market analysis, Distribution channels, Retail/reseller channel, Computer leasing

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Selecting a computer for the college trunk

Article Abstract:

Students must consider a school's computer facilities, their personal course of study and financial issues when deciding which computer to take to college. Students should check with their school to see whether it supports a specific platform, either Macintosh or IBM-compatible, and whether it has specific networking requirements. Some schools offer programs through which students can purchase computers at significant discounts. Users must also consider whether to buy a portable or desktop computer, keeping in mind that laptops are easily lost and that theft of laptops is on the rise. Students should not use elaborate carrying cases that attract thieves, instead they might carry the laptop in well-cushioned backpacks. Students may also prevent theft by using readily available security devices, engraving an identification number on the portable or by writing a program that requires a password before the computer can be used.

Author: Lewis, Peter H.
Purchasing, Computer industry, Product information, Buyers Guide, Hardware buyers' guide

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Computers no longer are typecast in movies

Article Abstract:

Microcomputers are no longer the villains in US movies. The Macintosh Powerbook is the hero in the popular Independence Day movie, saving the world from invasion by aliens. The Powerbook is shown to easily establish connections with the alien spaceship and a virus is created that saves the day. An Apple Macintosh also plays an important role in the movie Mission: Impossible. However, the system lacks the ability to access files and the Impossible Mission force must physically enter a building to obtain the files on disks. In reality, computers are under constant security threat from hackers. Silicon Graphics was given credit for the laptop computer used to track tornadoes in the movie Twister, although the company does not manufacture laptops. Silicon Graphics did develop the special effects for the movie.

Author: Lewis, Peter H.
Motion Picture and Video Industries, Motion Picture & TV Production, Motion Picture Production & Services, Equipment and supplies, Motion picture industry, Movie industry, Public relations

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Subjects list: Forecasts and trends, Industry trend, Microcomputers
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