Charlie,
Read your post, and was going to read all of them before I posted this, but I just couldn't wait! Now, I don't claim to know all about the 'cash flow', ROIC or all the rest of that stuff, and maybe I shouldn't 'spout' off, but here goes! ( Enjoy! )
CPQ - manufactures 'fine' x86 desktop computer systems!
DEC - manufactures 'fine' mini computers!
TanDem - manufactures 'fine' "non-stop" ( mirrored ) systems!
To me, the combining of these 3 technologies under one 'control' ( assuming the control is properly directed! ) makes a lot of sense. It seems to me, that as computers 'invade' our lives more and more, a system that 'does not' fail ( tandem ) is going to be in high demand. While I was working at GTE, we had Tandem Non-Stop II computers, and to my knowledge, there was never a failure, although I was there when the technicians were working on a 'failed' component in the system, it was transparent to the customer! (GTE) We were also using DEC computers, and while they were occasionally in trouble, we were running them 24x7's and there was really no preventative maintenance allowed. The only problems were really 'cooling' fans ( they had extras ) failed - and the extras kept it cool enough to keep it running, and the failure of the removable disk - disk drives. These were of the older type, and gradually upgraded to larger capacity drives. All in all, a good, fast mini-computer.
As for the CPQ, they are making their mark in the desktop arena, and offer a good value for the dollar!
So for the 'long' pull, I think that CPQ offers a fine value. Whether or not the management can utilize the conglomerate remains to be seen. I did sell some MSFT and buy some CPQ, so I am putting my $ where my thoughts are!
Any Ideas, thread?
Ken |
