[nzlug] Acer + Ubuntu: second look

[Mark Foster]

>>
>> They typically have a table with returned stuff on it, normally at a
>> discounted rate, although I think this may only happen if the
>> packaging is damaged or the item is incomplete.
>>
> Interesting, never seen this.

When they have a buildup of 'T2' or 'not-new' product they often have a 
'clearance' table. That isn't to say that they dont routinely have T2 
items shelved with other gear...

>> Wouldn't it be better to ask this question of DSE themselves?
>
> Yes, it's on the list. But it is better to have the answers before
> asking. Like, had I not hacked the machine, I'd never have discovered
> what I did. This gave the rep a chance to redeem or hang himself.
>
> He clammed up right after I revealed I knew the user name. If this *is*
> a resell of a returned item, could someone be in trouble?

If the unit was sold as-new then there was an expectation of the 
manager/staff that the unit was in fact 'as new'.
A unit which had been sold and then returned, assuming it is in 'as new' 
condition, could be resold as such (doesn't need to be marked down) - but 
it must be 100%.  In the case of PC's this means both cosmetically and in 
terms of the disk load (restore systems actioned before it's put up for 
sale again).

So if the system had anything other than 'factory default' info on it's 
HDD, someone probably did indeed get a slap on the wrist....
Usually it's appropriate for the salesperson to explain why the OEM seals 
on the box are no longer valid, etc etc, should be up front.

Disclaimer: This is based on my own employment with DSE, that was 10 
years ago however....