Michael

On 7 Jan 2009, at 20:33, Michael S. Macdonald wrote:

>
>
> that by year 3  of any computer's lifespan nowadays it is struggling
> to keep up with hardware and software 'improvements' through upgrades
> that challenge the casual user, and;

I disagree with that comment. A 3 year old computer does not struggle  
to keep up with current hardware and software improvements. 'Struggle'  
is a very opinionated would.
>
> that laptops become effectively obsolete for portable use when the
> price of a new battery (nevermind the pram battery) approaches, what
> - 50% of the 'resale' value of a laptop (think $125 for a new battery
> in a $500 laptop, then apply the same number to a $300 unit) and;

My PowerBook could do with a new battery. The machine is worth around  
£250 and you can get a brand new battery for £45 shipped. I make that  
less than 20% of the resale value. As Dan already said his £600 two  
year old MBP could do with a new battery, but I dont think it is going  
to cost him £300 do you.
>
> that , in this day and age, no extra value is given to products built
> to last beyond whatever 'warranty' period exists

Value to who, the manufacturer or the user.
>
>
> The move to make laptop batteries non-removable is a very 'green'
> initiative entirely in keeping with many other changes deemed
> necessary for the well-being of 'modern' society.

I don't see how throwing a computer away after only a couple of years  
is very green, instead of throwing away just a battery. Disposable  
computers would mean no used market and more new computers in  
production - not very green. Macs have always had a reputation for  
long lasting. I know some people on this group are using Macs that are  
10 years old - where would they be without replacement batteries,  
taking up landfill space.

Simon

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>

--- http://www.simonroyal.co.uk and http://www.nmug.org.uk
--- sent from my PowerBook G4 867Mhz, 768MB RAM, Mac OSX 10.5


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