When it comes to buying technology products, the prevailing myths are that new means best, state-of-the-art, and often top-of-the-line products, and refurbished means tarnished, second-best and mediocre.

Unfortunately, business owners and consumers believe these myths, which is a testament to the incredible job North America’s legions of copywriters have done in brainwashing buyers.

Can you handle the truth?

Small-business owners – whether established or, especially, in the start-up mode – are  making a big mistake by not checking out refurbished computers, desktops and laptops. Refurbished (also called reconditioned and remanufactured) computers are as good as new ones right off the assembly line.

“Refurbished” doesn’t mean old or outdated technology

Every year, companies introduce new desktop and laptop lines – typically with faster speeds, more memory and new bells and whistles. Yet the changes are minor and mostly cosmetic. The notion of upgrading technology yearly to boast the newest and hottest technical bells and whistles on the market is ridiculous; it amounts to an outrageous waste of money. Typically, refurbished computers are less than a year old, which means technology that is almost the equivalent of brand-new models. The difference is extraordinary savings – sometimes price tags are cut in half.

Why computers are refurbished. Desktop and laptop computers are sent back to the manufacturer for a number of reasons.

Possibly, the computer was returned because it didn’t work properly. But this is not always the case. Often, the problem was nothing more than a cosmetic defect, such as a small ding on the monitor or on the computer’s housing. Or it could be that a customer received the wrong model but had already opened the box. The computers are refitted with different parts, if necessary, and tested and approved for resale by the manufacturer.

Do your homework: Check out the refurbished marketplace

Many manufacturers have created a product channel just to manage their massive inventories. Hewlett-Packard’s Renew Program, for example, offers a huge inventory of state-of-the-art equipment that has been returned to H-P for various reasons. These products are certified by H-P to be as good as new and come with the same on-site warranty and support options as new equipment.

Warning: Make sure the company is established and reputable

There are many sellers, both brick-and-mortar and online, selling refurbished technology products. Not all of them are reputable. Avoid getting taken to the proverbial cleaners by making sure the following questions are satisfactorily answered:

• Does seller’s warranty guarantee the quality of its refurbished products? Read the warranty’s fine print carefully. Technology manufacturers offer either a full or limited warranty on refurbished products. Make sure the coverage and length of time are understood. The process for handling warranty and replacement of defective products within the warranty period should be clearly explained.

• How long has the company been in business? Make sure the company is established and has an excellent reputation in the industry.

• Is technical support available? Make sure a technical-support staff is available in case there are problems or questions.