Computer Builer Distributors/Suppliers?

[cpillin425]

Hello everyone,

I am a recent college graduate aiming to become a professional computer builder. I am considering on taking the comptia A+ in the near future. My knowledge of computer components and operating systems is quite advanced, yet my knowledge of the business side of things is not very good. I have several questions about this:

1)How exactly is it that one can find SUPPLIERS of computer components e.g. Nvidia, AMD, Intel, Windows 7 ect ect that sell at "factory" or "wholesale" prices so that one may make a profit. ( I hope you know what I am talking about. I have heard some things about the supply chain before in my econ class in college, but not quite to understand it that well).

2) How is it that one can find customized components. By that I mean like my company's logo etched onto the PC case or custom designed PC cases or stickers/mouse mats ect ect for your company.

BTW I went to college and know for a fact that absolutely NONE of this is taught in college business classes, except for some minor, but scant details like I mentioned above. In fact I have learned that most business owners are self taught in this aspect, and I aim to find the answers myself with the intent of running my own bussiness. Thank you for your help, regards.

 

[alyoshka]

Usually, one becomes a channel partner by directly corresponding with the company. The orders have to be in bulk to get factory prices and the distribution network has to be wide.
The factory is not going to be looking for smaller business entities it usually has it distribution zones for every continent. And that means a very big investment.

The second question is pretty simple, you get to the manufacturers of cases, and printers for stickers and other accessories. You can also contact the fabricators directly through the industrial yellow pages and get them to work on your designs.

 

[tlmck]

Before anything else, I would heavily research the potential market. In other words, will such a business even be viable? I used to build custom machines on the side and that has all dried up. Everybody wants lap tops these days. Even in an area as large as Dallas/Ft. Worth TX, finding a small computer maker is a chore. We do have some smaller chains such as Microcenter and Fry's that sell components for enthusiasts. They also build their own brand machines to order, but it is a very small percentage.

You could also go to work for someone else for a year or so and learn the business that way.