All-things-3000 Web site 3kworld.com added an e-commerce feature in early July when it opened up the first auction of fully licensed and authorized used HP 3000 servers. The initial systems were low-end models, with starting prices to match. A Series 918 system had a starting bid of $2,600 one day before auction’s end, while a Series 927 had a starting bid of just $1,600 with a day to go. The systems were offered by Phoenix 3000, the authorized used hardware outlet operated by North American HP 3000 distributor Client Systems. Regular pricing on other Series 918s being offered at Phoenix 3000 started at $7,000, so the auction has the potential to drive down the entry-level cost of a system currently sold by HP

”The Phoenix 3000 auction is an exciting and safe way to continue to support the HP 3000 community,” said Paul Edwards, founder of HP 3000 consulting and training firm Paul Edwards & Associates. “The Phoenix 3000 servers are a great option for consultants, professionals and price conscious end-users to get high-quality MPE/iX equipment.” The Series 918 system included an 8-user MPE/iX license, DAT tape, 64Mb of memory and 4-Gb drive. 3kworld officials said they would be offering preferred starting bid pricing on the auctions to colleagues who sign up at its Web site, a brief registration process.