supermac34, I think just about every big tech company's big years are behind them. However there is still lots of room for Dell to grow. We recently entered the printer market with Lexmark to grab more market share from HP. If Dell's printer business is successful, then HP will be in trouble. As of now, HP's printer business is supporting their PC and notebook lines of business. Not only that, but Dell recently released its Axiom Handheld, which is approximately $50-100 cheaper than the HP Jornada counterpart. In addition, they are having some success with their PowerConnect switches, which go so well with their other networking products such as servers and storage. Michael Dell has a vision: to be #1 in all lines of business. He wants to double the company within the next 6-8 years. There's plenty of opportunity for Dell to grow, and they are carefully evaluating each avenue. However, for now, it's safe to assume that there will not be a Dell oscilloscope or hell, even a Dell toaster.
So if I buy 12, 544 Nintendo Gamecubes and rip its innards, I'd have a crack at making my own personal supercomputer. Hmm...
Actually IBM are growing in the Services area, I dont think they are putting in much focus on the desktops, laptop areas or anything as much as they used to. Why should they when the big bucks comes from the Services, have you noticed since IBM started talking Services, now Compaq (now HP), CS, and others are starting to market their Services. It goes to show how other companies piggy back off IBM's back. So, but Dell makes darn good computers. We have enough companies out there to make computers, so some companies are just putting their focus on other areas! I think IBM on the long run will continue to stand strong, it will go through its phases of ups and downs like every company! But what the heck!
HP has killed IPAQ now, which is the best handheld on the market...although a little expensive. I'm not sure if Dell can compete with HP in printers...HP is too dug in. Anyways...like I said...Dell may continue to grow in PC's because HP and IBM aren't PC companies anymore. Their service and network companies...anyways...all those companies will be around for a long time.