> For example, maybe their return inspection policy is to run some Windows test software or something
I've heard this trotted out before, but it's unequivocally wrong. You just don't test hardware from inside the installed OS.
First, that introduces too many variables: how do you clearly disambiguate between hardware issues and software problems? You'd have to install an entire suite of verified-good drivers to make sure you're starting from a known point.
Second, how do you get into that OS in the first place? Many corporate (and plenty of prosumer) systems will have BitLocker enabled, and few of those customers will be keen on giving up their admin passwords to NewEgg or any other third party. Some systems will boot directly into an unlocked desktop, sure, but I'd bet good money that NewEgg has received more returned computers with encrypted Windows installations than Linux installations.
"We need to run tests under Windows" just isn't a legitimate excuse, unless they're also requiring Windows users to return pristine systems that have never had OS updates, new drivers, or applications installed.
I've heard this trotted out before, but it's unequivocally wrong. You just don't test hardware from inside the installed OS.
First, that introduces too many variables: how do you clearly disambiguate between hardware issues and software problems? You'd have to install an entire suite of verified-good drivers to make sure you're starting from a known point.
Second, how do you get into that OS in the first place? Many corporate (and plenty of prosumer) systems will have BitLocker enabled, and few of those customers will be keen on giving up their admin passwords to NewEgg or any other third party. Some systems will boot directly into an unlocked desktop, sure, but I'd bet good money that NewEgg has received more returned computers with encrypted Windows installations than Linux installations.
"We need to run tests under Windows" just isn't a legitimate excuse, unless they're also requiring Windows users to return pristine systems that have never had OS updates, new drivers, or applications installed.