John Bryant
Arizona Computer Consultant
(602) 861-1738

 

DELL Computer Sale
What can you get for $499.00?

 

Every year, I put out a list of computer maxims to help my clients make good decisions and avoid really nasty pitfalls. This year, maxim number six includes the line – “Buy a Dell”. As far as I’m concerned, when it comes to the intricacies of a system purchase … it’s as simple as that.

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That might have sounded like a sales pitch, so let me just say that I am not reimbursed by Dell for my praise in any way - although they probably should! Factually, on any given month between 2-4 clients purchase their new Dell based on my recommendation. Every time they do, I become the computer equivalent of the Maytag repairman as far as hardware problems for them.

Recently, Dell has had a heavy television campaign for a Dimension desktop on sale for 499.00 after mail-in rebate. A sale price like that is bound to raise questions, and I’ve gotten this question over and over:

“It’s on sale. It’s cheap. Can it be any good?"

Surprisingly, the answer is “yes”. I’ve installed about a dozen of these computers recently, and each one has been a pleasure to work on. Not only is it well built and easy to use, but Dell even includes a svelte flat-panel monitor at no extra charge. Such a deal!

How do they do it?
I have a theory on how Dell can have a sale like this. In my opinion, it has to do with the flat-panel screen. Up until recently these screens were still very pricey – but those prices are starting to drop. Anyone who’s bought a system in the recent past knows that once you buy the latest-greatest piece of hardware, it’s value drops almost as fast as their manufacturers’ stock value after the tech bubble burst. As soon as the next model comes out, the older models are … well … old.

Kudos to Dell for seeing the future of flat-panel monitors and moving their inventory of 15 inch screens before they become yesterdays news. If you are thinking about making a home or small business computer purchase, this sale is not one to miss.

Do you want fries with that?
You can order the Dimension computer online and they usually arrive in 7-10 days. You can call in the order as well, but I've found that their phone consultants are prone to try and "sell up" their products and also are big on selling add-ons.

Software Tip
If you use programs like Excel or Powerpoint you will need to have Dell put "Microsoft Office" onto your new computer. This will be an extra $150.00 or so, but is much cheaper than buying it in a store. However, if you only use Microsoft Word, then the version of MS Works that is pre-packaged with your new computer will be just fine - Microsoft Word is built right into the Works program now.

Take advantage of this sale before the holiday season hits – and Enjoy!