What are some of the best uses for old computers and printers?

1. 74

   thranaxposted 10 years ago

   What are some of the best uses for old computers and printers?
   
   Many of us have old computers and printers around the house. Some work and some don't work fully. What are some uses for these old Desktops, Laptops, and All-in-One Printers?

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2. 62

   gposchmanposted 10 years ago

   We used to joke that they made good boat anchors. Recycling is the best thing. If they still work and are usable, see if a school or some such organization wants them. Otherwise look for an electronics recycle fund raiser and give them away.
   
   Gene Poschman

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3. 61

   Superkevposted 10 years ago

   Linux is a good way to give new life to older hardware, I use Linux Mint 17 as my primary OS.

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4. 74

   easylearningwebposted 10 years ago

   Check out these sites for donating or recycling of old computer parts:
   
    http://www.computerhope.com/disposal.htm
   
    http://nextsteprecycling.org
   
   You could also mine for gold in older computers:
    http://www.ehow.com/how_4610058_recycle-gold-computer.html#page=0
   
   I'm always glad to hear someone inquiring about recycling, the best possible thing to do with old technology parts!

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5. 54

   areevesposted 10 years ago

   For printers I've not found a good way to get re-use them, that is other than doorstops.  However,  for older computers I've found a way to re-purpose them and still make them usable.  I have found that old PC's work very well as Linux machines.  I take a older PC  then load it up with something like Ubuntu Linux and it often works faster and better than the windows system it had before.  I then sell them either locally or on ebay.  you would be surprised how fast a good inexpensive Linux machine will sell.  It gives it a new life and sometimes finds it self someplace else still working away for a few more years.

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6. 65

   Craig Suitsposted 10 years ago

   Unless your good at electronic and mechanical repair and have a basement full of parts and lots of time, try to find someone that does or wants the parts. If you can't find anyone, the garbage can is by far your best bet. None of them last very long even if you repair them and new stuff is very cheap these days. Not worth the trouble Thranax....

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7. 72

   skearposted 10 years ago

   Old computers can be turned into routers using opensource software like pfSense.  You could also make a home storage server using FreeNAS.

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