Dell and Wal-Mart team on TV installations

Good idea? Bad idea? Not even Wal-Mart and Dell are sure.

The two "low-cost providers" have teamed to experiment on Dallas natives with a range of technology services. Customers visiting local Wal-Marts will find "Solution Stations by Dell" where they can get help with "home television installation, PC set-up, wireless network set-up, computer upgrades, services designed to protect computers and in-home training." So, it's like the Geek Squad thing over at BestBuy.

Except, er, what happens when Wal-Mart and Dell collide? The two companies are so darned focused on low, low everyday prices. Is this like multiplying two negatives? Will they actually pay you for the privilege of the service opportunity?

Probably not.

The pilot program underway in Dallas will cover 15 stores. "There are no plans at this time to expand the service outside of Dallas," Wal-Mart said.

Come on, guys, where's your ambition? We hear the eighth ring of hell is an untapped market.

Anyway, Dallas area customers should put on their electrodes and head over to the Dell-Mart for some testing. "For Wal-Mart, the program provides an opportunity for us to understand more about what our customers need and expect in home installation and technology services, within a specific market," the company said.

There's a wee bit more from Dell here. No word on whether or not a Chinese worker is included with every service visit. ®