Old Computer: What to do with it.

maximumzero

A neighbor gave me an old Gateway desktop that she was throwing out. She had another one, but it was already at the bottom of the garbage can (It still haunts me whether or not it was a better computer or worse than this one) I just finished gutting it.

From what I can see of the parts, basically it's a 500mhz P3 (slot 1). It does seem to have AGP, surprisingly.

Any thoughts? SHould I just sell the parts, or should I try to make something of these?

urahonky

If you've got a good TV, make yourself a TV box. Where you can hook it up to your TV, stream videos and stuff to it.

KungFu

I am interested to see what ideas people have for usage of old computers.

Only thing I can really think of is some sort of file server for a local network like if you have roommates and share files.

maximumzero

While I have the topic, anyone know where I can get a Slot 1 motherboard besides eBay? I'm thinking the best thing to do would be to chuck the motherboard and just keep the processor, so I don't have to deal with Gateway BIOS BS.

urahonky

maximumzero wrote: »

While I have the topic, anyone know where I can get a Slot 1 motherboard besides eBay? I'm thinking the best thing to do would be to chuck the motherboard and just keep the processor, so I don't have to deal with Gateway BIOS BS.

http://castle.pricewatch.com/s/search.asp?s=Slot+1&group1=2&sci=2&c=Motherboards

I used to use Pricewatch before I found newegg, but Pricewatch is really good for older parts.

MechMantis

I'd say use it to play all those old games that refuse to run on XP.


I did that with one of my old Compaqs, and now it runs Daggerfall happily.

Midnight Synergy

I used to keep old computers around to test development stuff on them, or as a dedicated internet machine (in the days before fast download speeds), or to hook up null-cable multiplayer games.

Nowadays, I would honestly suggest donating them to a school or shelter while they still have some use left to them (they won't even take them when they become completely outdated). It's only a matter of time before another computer arives on your desk, adding to yet more clutter in the crawlspace/attic/basement/garage.

Whatever you do, don't just chuck it (I know in some countries this is illegal anyhow) - there's stuff in there that needs to be properly disposed of.

waywardryan

If you have the room make it into a dedicated media box. You can hook it into your tv for movies or a stereo for Itunes.

maximumzero

Midnight Synergy wrote: »

I used to keep old computers around to test development stuff on them, or as a dedicated internet machine (in the days before fast download speeds), or to hook up null-cable multiplayer games.

Nowadays, I would honestly suggest donating them to a school or shelter while they still have some use left to them (they won't even take them when they become completely outdated). It's only a matter of time before another computer arives on your desk, adding to yet more clutter in the crawlspace/attic/basement/garage.

Whatever you do, don't just chuck it (I know in some countries this is illegal anyhow) - there's stuff in there that needs to be properly disposed of.

Well, I took out all the cards, motherboard, etc. so I just threw away the case.