More retirees are booting up their own PCs

Article Abstract:

Several computer manufacturers are targeting the over-50 demographic with their marketing campaigns because they have noticed a steady upward trend in senior citizens using computers. The Sun City West retirement community near Phoenix, AZ, illustrates this trend. The community sponsors classes to teach retirees how to use computers. The community's computer club has jumped from about 200 members in 1989 to 2,200 in 1995. Seniors use computers for a variety of tasks including personal finance, family tree research and home will preparation. Many seniors use E-mail to correspond with their children and grandchildren. A recent poll found that the number of people 65 or older who report that they use a home computer jumped from 7% in 1994 to 9% in 1995, which represents almost 600,000 people. Computer makers such as Compaq and Acer Group Inc are targeting this growing niche with advertising campaigns.

Microcomputer industry, Industry trend, Social issue, Social conditions

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Corporate castoffs fuel market for used PCs

Article Abstract:

Consumers unwilling to pay full price for a computer are fueling a growing demand for used computers. Although this market has increased about 50% from 1995, it remains much smaller than the market for new computers. Locating used machines can be difficult and determining the price for a used PC is also baffling. Since older models often do not run the latest software, they appeal to users who do not need fancy graphics or new games, such as college students. While used computers do not typically come with guarantees, returned machines that have been repaired may still have a manufacturer's warranty. Also, most reputable stores will allow purchasers to test their software to see if it will operate on an older model. There is such a plethora of older PCs that many are sold overseas.

Statistics, Used computer equipment, Used computer hardware, Used Equipment

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Veteran PC customers spur mail-order boom

Article Abstract:

Experienced microcomputer users who know what they are looking for are increasingly turning to mail-order services to get products quickly and at lower prices. First-time computer buyers tend to require the advice of sales personnel and prefer the opportunity to actually try out a system before they buy it. Experienced buyers are often willing to pay higher prices for more advanced systems than computer novices. These systems tend to have higher profit margins, which benefit the mail-order vendor. Repeat buyers accounted for 57 percent of the new computers purchased in 1995. Problems associated with purchasing equipment by mail include long delays in obtaining repairs or returning products. Shipping charges are added to the purchase price and some states require sales taxes.

Distribution channels, Retail/Reseller Channel

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