This IDC study provides residual value forecasts for EMC's enterprise Symmetrix storage products. The study explains the current market conditions that are affecting the value of used hardware on the secondary market and what future technological changes will further impact these values. This information helps those who invest in hardware assess their risk and provides guidance on the amount of residual value that is expected to be realized at the end of lease term.

"EMC has posted strong earnings during 2Q08, demonstrating resilience in a lackluster economic environment. For EMC this translates into strong sales of its enterprise storage products and increased customer penetration. This success, however, does not translate to prices on the secondary market. Because of EMC's restrictive policies about warranty transfer and recertification, the secondary market for used EMC gear is extremely limited." — Susan G. Middleton, research director, Technology Financing Strategies