Scribbled by Warren Ward

Let me tell you a funny story about IBM. In the 80s I was the chief R&D engineer working for a Coopervision division. We had designed a new fancy laser-based system and decided to use the new IBM XT for the controlling software. So I dutifully called IBM’s sales department looking to buy 1000 PCs. They never returned my call. I called again. No answer. Then I wrote a letter to the President of IBM explaining their non response and my problem and again asking to purchase 1000 IBM XTs. He never returned my call. I went elsewhere for my quote. When my next job designing aircraft simulators for Cubic Corporation required expensive medium-sized computers and expansive video memory systems, I made sure the company went to another computer manufacturer.

But, hey, I don’t hold grudges for more than two decades. So, I bought a laptop from IBM last Spring. I hadn’t purchased an IBM machine since my first computer - an IBM PC with no hard drive. Back then I could not justify the XP with the hard drive built in. Instead I added my own 15 Meg drive which I thought I could never fill up. I have enjoyed my Thinkpad.

As might be expected I have small problems with my Thinkpad. The CD started spewing parts. I needed service. So I went to the phone numbers built-in to the computer’s help button. Interestingly they have been disconnected with no forwarding number. I spent two days on the internet trying to find a number to call. I finally gave up. Eventually I had to call the “Purchase an IBM” phone line to find out how to get service. They let me know that “This line is only for new purchases.” I told them my problem trying to find a contact, and they transferred me to service. They had me a new drive the next day. But what an ordeal to get there.

Therefore, IBM’s deal with China’s Lenovo is a killer for me.

Let’s take this mess to China. I don’t know anyone outside of Hong Kong, and they speak impeccable English, so mainland China is going to be an interesting proposition where English isn’t so second-nature. I bought IBM, not because I thought they were made in the US. That’s silly! But because they were IBM and I figured they would be solid. Also, how silly of me. They just sold the whole division to China! How solid can that be? Whoa, I didn’t see that one coming!

So, anybody know of a good, local, laptop maker with a light and powerful system, long battery life, and dependable? I won’t be looking for IBM any more. Fool me thrice…

And don’t tell me about Dell, dude! That’s another story!