The Jawbreaker deal.

By Lewis A. Mettler, Esq.

All readers of this BBS have been reminded that when you buy a new computer as opposed to upgrade your current one you have even fewer choices. The "bubblegum deal" was introduced as an analogy to allow Microsoft customers to evaluate their available choices. As you recall, #1 (buy the bubblegum), #2 (switch OS with a plan) and #3 (don't upgrade...CP/M city) were your only choices.

But, what if you are buying a new computer?

You must take the "Jawbreaker" deal.

What is the Jawbreaker deal?

First, it costs more. A new license for the OS is $190. Unlike the bubblegum deal, with the Jawbreaker deal you actually get more for more money.

Using the same split between the OS and IE as applied to the upgrade, you pay Microsoft $60 for the OS and $140 for the jawbreakers (IE). You buy 15 cases of some of the best jawbreakers made. (Or course if you ask your jawbreaker salesman, he will swear to you that the jawbreakers are free. So, you should not complain.)

And the Jawbreakers are integrated! Each time you boot up your new machine a cheek check is made to make sure a new "breaker" is in there. (Shortly after boot you can spit the breaker out. But, since it will not stick to the bottom of the desk like the gum will, you will have to dispose of it another way.)

Do you have a choice? Must you take the 15 cases of "jawbreakers". No. You must buy it, or don't buy a new computer.

What are businesses going to do if every employee has their own 15 case supply of jawbreakers? Ask Microsoft.

I am sure they have a good line. (like "just put it somewhere convenient so you can taste one with each boot")

Just remember. The jawbreakers are absolutely free. You can even get 15 cases for your MAC or Solaris, no charge.

You can get 15 cases for your current system, no charge.

(but don't plan on selling yours to anyone, they all have 15 cases themselves)

I can only surmise that Microsoft customers asked for this deal. And, from reading some posts, 100% must have called in asked for the jawbreaker deal. After all, Microsoft listens to its customers, right?

Lewis A. Mettler, Esq.