> One curious light on this case is that HP is willing to put the cheap system
>  sources out of business - which is sure to hurt some customers and perhaps
>  even eliminate a few 3000s altogether.  So, can we conclude that HP thinks
>  the 3000 is competitive enough that they can take this risk without harm
>  overall to the 3000 business?

No one has argued more than I have that entry-level HP3000 prices need to be
brought down, but that isn't the point. A Rolex bought in a dark alley is
likely to a great deal cheaper than one purchased through an authorized
distributor, but none of us mourn those few who would be denied ownership of a
Rolex by means of theft. To knowingly participate in the process of receiving
stolen goods is to be part of theivery itself -- and it does none of us any
good.

Wirt Atmar