• Software

• PANTONE and publishing-related stuff

• Late-night orders

• Student software

• Computer supplies & blank media

• Computer parts

• Picture frames

Cheap Software, Supplies & Parts!

Well...we really mean good stuff at cheap prices!

I've used many of these places, but not all, so I can't totally endorse them. I'm merely passing along information that may be helpful to you.

Also, you might want to read these informative articles about software purchases.

• Microsoft COAs
  www.directdeals.com/coa_notification.aspx
• OEM scams
  www.hoax-slayer.com/cheap-software-spam.html
• Too cheap to be true www.choice.com.au/viewArticle.aspx?id=104435&catId=100245&tid=100008&p=1
• Safe, legal buying tips from the Software Business Alliance
  www.bsa.org/usa/antipiracy/Tools-for-Everyone.cfm

About software liquidators, OEMs, and academic software ...

There are legitimate, honest resellers on the Internet.

And then there are crooks.

When purchasing software, make sure you're buying copies that can be registered with the manufacturer. If

Legitimate liquidators offer some great deals. Like Big Lots! stores, their merchandise is purchased from businesses that have closed their doors, from manufacturers with overstocked inventory, or from retailers with outdated software when new versions are released.

You often can purchase a version of a leading software for 50-75% off because it's one or two versions out of date. If you don't need the latest bells and whistles, these older versions might be just what you need. And since they are legal, commercial copies of software, they can be updated to the current versions through the manfucturer. I've listed some liquidators below.

Legitimate resellers of OEM software (original equipment manufacturer) also sell legal copies of software at discount prices. These usually do not come with a box or manuals: you receive just the disks with appropriate CD keys or COAs. When PubCom used to build custom computer workstations, we often purchased OEM versions of the operating system and basic office software to include with the hardware. When you purchase a new computer from Dell or Compaq, the software that comes with it is OEM.

However, be wary of those merchants saying that the CDs are "legal copies" and covered by "section 17 of the US Copyright code." These are pirated copies: they are not legal, and you won't be able to register them, received technical support, or upgrade them. They're clearly a waste of your money.

Keep in mind that any student or faculty member of a fully-accrediated school that issues degrees (elementary to college, full or part-time) can purchase academic versions of most major software programs. You must prove that you're registered at an accredited school/college (student ID card, tuition voucher, etc.) and the software can not be used for commercial purposes (ie, not at work or to make money).

    —Bevi

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