ideas for a spare computer?

Mirrorboy said:

oh, i was hoping you didn't have to buy anything lol. ah well, so much for that idea.

OK ... the latest Ubuntu includes remote desktop software. You only need to have it log-in automatically, then use remote Windows software to access the computer using your home network. I find the free "realvnc.com" to be a simple install and use setup (my home network is not a secure network, so I don't use any encryption or passwords for access).

Cheers!
Robert

No monitor or optical drive severely crimps what you could do. I would install Real VNC on it then you could put all your mp3s on it and use it a a remote music player (assuming it has a sound card and speakers). Real VNC would let you use your other computer to remotely access the computer somewhat like a KVM switch would do for you. Real VNC is free for personal use.

Before you get rid of it, try out the Project Looking Glass on it (3D desktop linux). doesn't work in a VM.
Grantd, last time I looked at the lgp it was three years ago. I looked it up and the site is still there, but the demo looks exactly the same as from the download from three years ago.
or, rig up a touchscreen and try MPX or Microsoft surface (requires a touch screen so not likely i presume)

Well you shot down all the ideas everyone suggested so my suggestion is to list it for sale on Craigslist or somewhere similar and sell it for whatever you could get for it for money to give to your parents toward what you owe them.

Can always use it as a paper weight, or a door stop.