Topic: Need cheap computer gear

[Clark Kent]

I'm short of cash, but still in need of some different gear for my computer.  in particular I could use a KVM switch for a USB mouse and USB keyboard. 
One thing that interests me is the idea of getting used goods, say from universities or businesses that have depreciated the equipment and are planning to get rid of it.  however, I don't know where to go for info on this.  Those on site at these various places don't seem to know jack about this, but then weeks later I'll hear that an auction occurred.
Anyone got any ideas?

[Javora]

I've been to a couple of those auctions, they are not all it is cracked up to be.  If you want good used furniture, file cabinets it is a good place to go.  As for tech, you are most likely going to see 5~7 year-old computers, printers, and such, and most of that is going to have the tar beaten out of it.  A friend of mine did buy a couple of old PIII 1000mhz and build one out of the two that he bought and is now using it for a Neverwinter Nights server.  Wasn't bad for $20USD.

As for looking for information on when and where, try looking on the college's web site.  If the laws are similar in your state as in mine (Michigan), then they have to post the dates and times in advance.  If you can't find anything that way try to talk to a maintenance person at the college. Maintenance people usually have the best idea when these auctions will happen since they are the ones that have to move all the items being sold.  Private companies on the other hand are another story since those auctions are private affair solely for their employees.  You could also try the state government or police agencies, this might give you a more places to find what you are looking for.  Hope this helps.

[Nemesis]

Check out liquidators.  In Toronto (as an example) there is a liquidator that speciallizes in computer and electronics.  Some of the stuff is end of line or overstocks other things are off lease others were returned to the manufacturer and "refurbished".   You may have a local (or nearly local as Toronto is to me) liquidator as well if you look for it.

Link to site as an example

At one point I bought a (Lexmark) laser printer with cartridge for less than the cartridge price.  I was never able to get another cartridge but who cares?  It was my printer for over a year.  My digital camera and PDA came from there.  Obsolete?  Perhaps but both are ideal (and cheap) for my purposes.  I bought 2 DVD R/Ws there recently (new -  but lower price than the competition).

[SkyFlyer]

http://www.ddccomputersales.com

[Dracho]

www.pricewatch.com

be sure to check the "not new" section.

[Capt_Bearslayer_XC]

Dracho hit it right on the head.

This is what I got off Pricewatch for my new system:

Case, 400 watt power supply, DVD burner, 240 gigs over 2 HD's, 3.06 Ghz P4 with hyperthreading, 2 gig of DDR PC3500 Rams, Radeon 9800XT w/512MB, and Intel Mobo (D865GBF)  for under $800.   

[Clark Kent]

I will have to bookmark that one for sure.