IBM pays cash for old computers

IBM is handing out cash for old and used computer equipment, regardless of make. The payments, in money or credit, can be used to purchase the latest IBM products.
The move is a bid to push the SystemXtra program, which aims to provide IBM customers with a complete services and support package including education, finance and training.
Jamie Snowdon, industry analyst at Input, believes a company the size of IBM "has enough clout to do something like this". He explained that IBM's broad scope means it can more easily find a use for a range of old products.
"The hardware could be used as spare parts, but this is not the start of a trend," he said. Whereas some companies offer an upgrade on their PCs, Snowdon said he cannot imagine any other suppliers adopting IBM's approach apart from Compaq, which he claims would be the only other firm big enough to follow suit.
When asked if the venture will work, Snowdon said: "It will certainly give them another edge in the market."