[ReadMyMind]

I don't think the computer bang-for-buck increase is explained by volume. It is explained by continuing advances in technological capability (making more smaller transistors for the same amount of money or less).

I'm referring to the fact that you can now spend less than $5,000 and get a computer that is more capable than a 1980 mainframe costing $10,000,000 or more. This has nothing to do with the production volume of 1980 mainframes.

[IncPen]

It is explained by continuing advances in technological capability (making more smaller transistors for the same amount of money or less).

We agree.

I'm referring to the fact that you can now spend less than $5,000 and get a computer that is more capable than a 1980 mainframe costing $10,000,000 or more.

See above.

What's your question?