Computers are still needed to process all that digital data one creates with one’s video and photographic equipment. Thus, I am not completely down on computer equipment per se. Similarly, I am not really down on telephones either as a geeky or nerdy device. They both are needed and used as tools or devices to accomplish respective tasks and objectives, just as the tool called an automobile is used to carry you somewhere.

A word on computers:

My switch to the Mac platform from the PC world has been nothing less then an ‘emancipation’. Now, instead of tinkering with technology, trying to make things work 80-90% of the time as so often seems to be the case with Windows, the Apple platform has allowed me to spend 80-90% of my time in productivity and get on with business at hand. Since Apple’s modern day equipment and operating system are both 64-bit, I found that I have been able to do every thing I need to do via mobile equipment. This eliminates PC boxes, and nerdiness that goes along with trying to find the best graphics card, sub-sound system, motherboard, memory type etc., orchestrate it and then hope it all works.

Value: Although Apple continues to evolve new models every year, one can purchase a machine and reliably use it for at least 2-3 years and derive productivity value. And then when it does come time to resell a Mac, a good part of the initial investment can be recovered through whatever outlet one might use for such resale. At least that is the case for me here in Japan using auctions. (One might consider to being akin to the resale of a BMW or Mercedes versus a Volkswagen.)

Back to the main point, ‘Long Term Value’, all things eventually obsolete. Film-based cameras are rapidly being obsoleted in lieu of digital cameras (check out the reductions in labor force at Fuji Film, Kodak, and the likes), audio cassette radio players have also become obsolete. Airline propellor plane equipment (Trans World Airlines ? etc) have been obsoleted by jet aircraft (which is also evolving). It is a process of evolution. Hard disk drives will give way to SSDs. And, I think even camera lenses will change dramatically in the future as new technology evolves and allows for it. (look at even current lens evolution now starting to incorporate IS and VR technologies within the lenses). ( http://www.nytimes.com/2004/12/09/arts/design/09phot.html ) The issue is if one can derive maximum value (however defined) over time , and minimize value erosion for one’s existing equipment and holdings, whether it be a car, real estate, a home, a computer, photographic equipment, etc. If the equipment or possessions can be monetized and capitalized upon, and converted into profit or business, then all the better.

Hope this rationale all makes sense.

TokyoJerry