Before we get into a discussion of the market for used computer technology products, let's set the scene.

Businesses looking to start up during tough economic times have reason for optimism. As a recent CBC news story pointed out, of the 30 companies that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Index, 18 were launched during a weak economy. These include: Google, Johnson & Johnson, Adobe, Walt Disney and McDonald's.

What are the benefits of launching a business when everyone else is cutting back? The CBC cites four points made by business writer Vivek Wadwah:

• There is less competition.

• It's a buyer's market for equipment and real estate.

• Lots of people have been laid off, so you may be able to recruit some stellar talent.

• You will face less pressure to expand and fewer battles for market share.

Further, businesses everywhere are cutting costs. In the context of computer equipment, this means that some may be divesting themselves of hardware they no longer need. This hardware ends up on the secondary market, meaning you can get some great deals on used computer technology products, like desktops, laptops, monitors, printers, servers, and projectors – all the things you need to start your business.

If you decide to shop on the secondary (used) computer market, you will see a selection of equipment that is used or refurbished. You may wonder what the difference is.

Basically, used equipment has been used by a company for a period of time. This equipment may have been used, then decommissioned, ending up as surplus in some large company. It may be from an expired lease. It may be from a company trying to raise cash by selling hardware assets. Lightly used equipment may even have come from customer returns to a retailer. Note that some used computer technology products may have a little wear and tear.

Refurbished equipment is also used, but has been refurbished to the original manufacturer's specifications and cleaned, either by the manufacturer or the secondary market reseller.

Some used equipment dealers also sell discontinued products. This equipment is brand new, not even out of the box.

With secondary market computer technology products – whether used, refurbished, or discontinued – you can get significant discounts on everyday office machines. In fact, if you buy just after the product has been discontinued, you can save upwards of 60% off the original price. And with product life cycles being so short, even a recently discontinued computer is likely to meet or surpass your needs.

You can be successful starting a business in a slow economy, but it pays to save money where you can. Used computer technology products are one way to cut costs without sacrificing the quality of your IT infrastructure.