Update:
Just got off the phone with a supervisor at dell financial srvcs. She was more accomodating than the email I received from someone else. Yet, the story was the same: 30 day warranty. If you want a longer one, you can buy it. We only deal in USED computers. The PS you referred to has NOT been recalled. We've seen very low PS faults with these. You can get a replacement on Amazon, e-bay, tiger-direct, etc.
Problem is they're all used. Further, she was surprised when I noted that even DELL no longer sells NEW ones..."things change". Really? For a computer with a date code of 2011?
I was polite, but firm. Pulled my EE card when she began over generalizing about hardware. I told her this experience has educated me about just what Dell is selling and that their definition of "refurb" is far different from mine. Furthermore, that if I ever do use their bid process again, I'll stop far lower knowing that even used parts, particularly OEM power supplies, will be used, not really checked for bad lots. Unfortunately this is the game to be played when you buy a Dell with a small case and a PS with an iffy past.
Lesson Learned.
She did finally offer to refund a portion of my payment. I thanked her for doing so and for her time. No reason to be rude.
Afterwards, I contacted discount electronics in nearby Austin. I already knew one store was out of these PS, but wanted to see when more would be available. "Soon" I was told. I was also told that NONE of their Austin/Round Rock stores have ANY of these PS's period. "They're very popular" Gee, I now understand why! I mentioned that their website even says they have some "Yeah, it does that...even when we're out."
Caveat Emptor!
