Larry, I would not even pay 2X the minimum price I saw a few weeks ago, for the simple reason that I expect the demand to wane (as it generally does, eventually, with rising prices) and for the price to decline.
For example, when I put my home system #2 together this fall, I plan to rob 64MB from the kids computer (put there only to take advantage of the $49 price at the time). Previously, I'd planned to add 128MB, but will defer now that the price has jumped from from $185 around Seattle to $350 to $400. Time is on my side and I'll simply make due with 64MB for a while, which has proven adequate for every application I run save one (very graphics intensive). I've waited these out before and I will again. One reason I'll wait, btw, is that for a second system, it's gotta be cheaper to fit into my budget.
The idea that someone would pay 10x is ridiculous nowadays, IMHO. Upgrades will slow, system purchases will be curtailed, etc, and production will increase (as before, as with OPEC) to take advantage of the better prices and greed will prevail.
BTW, the CPU I'd planned to get had dropped by 50% since I bought that 64MB of RAM... how ironic! Intel must be thrilled to see money going from their pocket into Micron's! |
