Just to clarify, a refurbished Apple product means refurbished by Apple themselves to a perfected, sometimes better than new condition. These units come with a full warranty and do qualify for extended warranties and user assistance.

I would never consider buying any computer or high-end electronic from eBay. I got burned when eBay first came out and learned my lesson.

Mwa, Gates's genius is not in the development of software, it was in his aggressive marketing strategy of getting the major manufacturers on board with his exclusivity agreement. He's just a common copycat with uncommon marketing savvy.