Life-cycle cost estimation can be a means to avoid mistakes in system design that would result in large costs. Successful life-cycle forecasting, however, requires the ability to predict, with reasonable confidence, the total cost (life-cycle cost) associated with the development, acquisition, and ownership of a system. Unfortunately, life-cycle cost analysis has not been satisfactorily applied to computer software systems. Unlike hardware, logistic parameters for software are difficult to predict and measure. Thus, software costs have been difficult to predict. Life-cycle costing of hardware systems has evolved into a systematic approach involving concept formulation, contract considerations, development/production and operations/disposal. Such an approach has been useful to define areas of high-support costs, evaluate alternative support policies, determine impact of operational requirements on support alternatives, and to provide for long-range cost prediction. This paper examines the cost of real-time simulation computers with emphasis on computer software life-cycle costs.