Planned obsolescence used to be de facto built into the American economy. Technology products of the 1990s are different. It's possible, even likely, that your 10-year-old computer still works. But it's a dinosaur.
This week's SNET Internet survey question deals more with the instant obsolescence of computers and computer technology, and that has more to do with individual technolust than it does with products that stop working. At some point, after buying a new computer, most people begin to want "more, better and faster."
Here are the results:
Q: How long after you buy a new computer do you feel the urge to upgrade?
- Almost immediately - 475 (16.5%)
- About six months - 537 (18.6%)
- A year or so - 673 (23.4%)
- 18 months - 241 (8.4%)
- Two years - 585 (20.3%)
- Three years or more - 362 (12.6%)
Your comments:
"I would have to say that I would think about upgrading a computer after about a year. Why? Because that is when computers come out that are faster than what I have bought." C.Y., Fairfield
"I think you should upgrade your computer as soon as new software comes out, or every other time new software comes out. I think it is important to upgrade your computer at least once a year to make sure you have the latest in technology. I think it is especially important to upgrade your computers for the Y2K bug so your computer will be able to handle the changes if anything happens." S,V., Weatogue
"My machine is in a state of constant upgrade as it is home-built. I add things as I find bargans, or free parts from friends. I know from experience that the current upgrade is never enough to do what is possible, as new technology evolves every day. Besides, I enjoy tinkering." Jon Hykes, Glastonbury
"I have always looked forward to your exciting and interesting surveys - is there any reason you're coming up with the most boring ones you can think of all of a sudden? Bring back some good surveys, will you!" C.M.M., Branford
Editor's Note: We're always open to suggestions. ;-)
"In the "How soon do you get the urge to upgrade?" question my answer would have been "Whenever Macintosh comes out with a new machine that puts my old one to shame." (But I'm a poll buster anyway; nobody ever asks the right questions.) Jim, Stratford
Previous survey results are available.
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