when is a pc too old to re-sell?

Hi there

Old PC's make excellent home file / multi-media / printer servers / Internet gateways etc etc. The only problem might be if you only have IDE disks -- however you can probably find SATA adapters.

Great way to learn something about Linux too -- Linux will run on just about anything.

Store all your backup data from laptops / tablets etc on the Linux server as your "Private Cloud" too - so you can learn about cloud computing as well.

The Linux server doesn't need a huge amount of RAM either - and even if it has hideous graphics it doesn't matter as you can use the Command line or even a REMOTE console. You don't even need to connect a screen to the server at all if you operate it as a remote console. !!

Decent Linux distros to try : Debian, SUSE, Linux Mint, Ubuntu ===> that's 4 decent ones's just for starters.

Linux has come on a LONG way in recent years -- your main problem might be in getting some of the newer wireless cards / wifi USB adapters to work but as a server I'd use a WIRED LAN connection -- most home routers have 3 or 4 LAN connections available as well as the standard Wi-Fi. You will still be able to access the server from a Wireless connection on your LAN.

For file sharing etc look at APACHE. (As with most things Linux it's all FREE !!!)

http://www.apache.org/

Cheers
jimbo

OvenMaster said:

I'm the type to keep anything and everything as long as it works. When my main rig is down, it's a comfort to know that I have a backup machine ready to just plug in and go, even if it's slow. If I didn't have a backup machine, how on earth would I order repair parts?

Hi Ovenmaster

It's called Telephone and snail mail !!!!!! -- still works sort of even in 2014 !!!!-- I agree though it's a pain when not having the Internet.

(Hope you aren't the sort who gets hopelessly lost if the SATNAV system fails -- Maps still work too !!!!! but I'd still draw the line at using Morse code for last ditch communication !!!.

Cheers
jimbo

I find a second computer indispensable. If I have problems with the main PC I have a means of getting online for info, d/l drivers, email. A case of 1 is none and 2 is 1.

tried installing Lubuntu on it, but it didnt work. cant boot xp or linux. "a disk read error occurred press ctrl alt del to restart". can't seem to get to my restore point. oh well I'm just playing and experimenting anyway. lol

If you do or you thought about working with heavier programs (editing, design, etc.) The old pc can use for basic programs. Or you can give away or sell to someone who needs.