From 1989 to 1998, the maximum clock speed of Intels processors increased 350 percent. New micron production processes and copper-based circuits continue the acceleration. Much faster and cheaper processors are anticipated. In the midst of this progress, there are whispers of planned obsolescence among some naysayers. Faster processor speed and new software that demands it, they argue, will make a PC bought today obsolete in two years. Besides, they continue, is the increased speed really necessary?

What do you think? Is a greater processor speed a benefit for manufacturers and consumers alike, or is it a boon for builders and a burden for buyers? Why?