PC design fashion trends.
It appears some industry observers agree with my opinion on why it's too early for Dell to be offering a super cool space saving design
at a premium price.
news.com
Dell, one of the stodgier PC companies around, in fact, will get into this market within the next 18 months with a stylized PC of its own..
Message 10164764
But attention is one thing; actual purchases are another. The sub-$1,000 PC category remains one of the fastest growing segments in the market. But because of their higher prices, many of the all-in-one machines and flat-panel display systems will generally be bought by executives and consumers, attendees say, and it may be at least a few years before average users benefit from the design advances...
"The iMac started all of this," said Dennis Mathis, computer division manager at accounting firm Cowan Gutneski and Company, speaking at Gateway's PC Expo booth. Gateway is devoting much of its trade show floor space to its new all-in-one computer, the Profile, which starts at $1,999. Mathis was impressed by the slim design of the Profile, as well as the reasonable price.
"It's not only cool, but it's pretty efficient," he said. In the past, hip-looking computers usually sacrificed usability or performance. "For the price, it's a really good deal," he said, comparing it to other Gateway notebooks.
Nonetheless, fashion has its drawbacks. The Profile would not be a good choice for lower-level employees, according to Sean Fitzgerald, LAN manager for White Rose Food.
"Because of the design, it doesn't offer much expandability," he said, adding that the Profile might also present headaches when servicing or fixing the computer.
But will they plunk down cash? Both Mathis and Fitzgerald admitted that they will not be buying the Profile anytime soon.
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Gateway's Profile design is awkward, according to Dell's Everett.
To succeed, such a system should be more a hybrid between notebook and desktop system, Everett said. A true all-in-one should offer some measure of portability, as well as more advanced design..
Message 10129550
Again, to summarize, Cool PC's? yes. Wave of the future? yes. Large market today? no. Dell falling behind because they don't have an entry into this segment today? no.
MEATHEAD |
