SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 3
Download to read offline
(http://helpdeskgeek.com)

Archives (/archives/)

Featured (/category/featured-posts/)

Reviews (/category/reviews/)
Search

HDG Guide – What to do with an Extra PC?
October 22nd, 2012 by Aseem Kishore | File in: How-To (http://helpdeskgeek.com/category/how-to/)

I recently came across a great deal on a used PC. Before, I only owned one computer, but because this PC was priced so

Categories

DAILY NEWSLETTER
Enter your email

Go

aggressively and I’ve been wanting to have an extra PC (with Windows 8 approaching), I didn’t pass it up. In today’s post, we
will review the top 10 uses for an extra computer.

The PC that I purchased is a Dell Core 2 Duo Desktop… for $20.00! It came with:


(mailto:akishore@helpdeskgeek.com)

(https://plus.google.com/b/118345

(https://www.facebook.com/pages/H
DeskGeek/183299011719864)

(http://twitter.com/akishore)
 (/feed/rss/)
RECENT POSTS
Refresh, Reinstall or Restore Windows 8

Case

(http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/refresh-

Power Supply

reinstall-or-restore-windows-8/)

CPU
Heat sink

HDG Guide – Storage Spaces and Pools in

Cooling Fans

Windows 8 (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-

I have an extra hard drive, so I will simply need to purchase some cheap:

8/hdg-guide-storage-spaces-and-pools-inwindows-8/)

RAM memory
Optical drive
and it should be ready to go. I’m hoping to find some cheap RAM and a cheap CD/DVD drive for around $30.00, so that I will
have only spend $50.00 on the whole thing.
I plan to install Windows 8 on this PC, but as far as actual usage, I do most of my work on my other computer. So, I’ve been
doing a bit of research on the best uses for extra PCs. Here are some of the most popular uses for an extra PC that may just
be collecting dust, and also a few untraditional uses you may have not considered.

Install Windows Media Center on Windows 8
(http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/installwindows-media-center-on-windows-8/)

20 of The Best TV Streaming Devices
(http://helpdeskgeek.com/free-tools-review/20-ofthe-best-tv-streaming-devices/)

1. Extra PC
If you only have one primary computer in your home (or a few), and find yourself on the PC a lot, you may simply want to
consider adding an extra PC to your home. Particularly for people who have families or own homes with several rooms and
significant square ft. It can be convenient to have multiple PCs spread out through the home, so that you don’t have to carry a
notebook around with you, or if you have a desktop as a primary computer, having to go to the computer room each time you
want to use a PC.
For the modern, technology based homes, people have even installed computers in their garages and kitchens.

2. Media Server/File Server
If you have a multi-user home with several computers already, you may simply want to setup the extra PC as a media server
or file server. Check out my previous post on 7 programs to turn your PC into a streaming media server (http://www.onlinetech-tips.com/software-reviews/7-programs-to-turn-your-pc-into-a-streaming-media-center/).

RELATED POSTS
HDG Guide – Storage Spaces and Pools in
Windows 8 (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows8/hdg-guide-storage-spaces-and-pools-inwindows-8/)

Windows 8 Device Guide
(http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/windows-8device-guide/)

As a media server, you can store all of your music, videos, photos and other files on the PC, share them with your other
computers in the home and even stream the media files to your TV. The PC will serve as a centralized location just for storing
your video, music and photo library.

HDG Guide to Customizing and Organizing the
Windows 8 Start Screen

As a file server, you can share files, folders, documents, etc… with all (or select) computers in your home or even across the

(http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/hdg-guide-

Internet. This makes it ultra convenient for basic file sharing, but also makes it simple to transfer computer files or data from

to-customizing-and-organizing-the-windows-8-

one PC to the other on your home network or to others remotely, without having to burn discs or use USB drives.

start-screen/)

3. HTPC
HTPC, or Home Theater PC, is another very popular use for extra computers. With an extra PC as a HTPC, you can setup your
computer in combination with your TV to do things like play Netflix, Hulu, Amazon VOD, etc… Additionally, if you have a TV
tuner card, USB tuner or network tuner, you can setup the HTPC + Windows Media Center, which will allow for TIVO

HDG Explains – Swapfile.sys, Hiberfil.sys and
Pagefile.sys in Windows 8
(http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/hdgexplains-swapfile-sys-hiberfil-sys-and-pagefile-
functionality (DVR) and even a live guide (if you don’t already have a cable box). Some of the most popular HTPC platforms

sys-in-windows-8/)

are:
Windows Media Center (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/products/windows-media-center)

Should You Upgrade to Windows 8?

XBMC (Xbox Media Center) (http://xbmc.org/)

(http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/should-you-

Plex (http://plexapp.com/)

upgrade-to-windows-8/)

Boxee (http://www.boxee.tv/)

4. Backup PC
If you don’t have a NAS or backup drive for your important files and data on existing computers and aren’t backing up your
data, you may want to consider using the extra PC as a backup device. Using free software such as FreeNAS
(http://www.freenas.org/), you can very simply setup the extra PC as a network backup which can be used to backup multiple
computers.
Additionally, you can purchase an extra internal hard drive for the computer and set it up in mirrored RAID, which will
strengthen your backup plan.
Not wanting to use the extra PC as a backup PC, but do need a way to backup your data? Here are 7 additional options for
backup (http://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/seven-ways-to-backup-a-computer/).

5. Storage PC
If the extra PC has significant hard drive capacity, you could simply use it as a generic storage location for files, programs,
installers and other PC data. Just install an operating system, connect it to your router/home network, and use the PC to store
all of the bulk software and files that you want to have, but that take up too much space or you prefer not to have on your
primary PC; kind of like a external hard drive.

6. Donate/Gift
If you believe that the extra PC will be of little to no use to you, you may want to consider donating or gifting the PC. Most
commonly, extra computers are gifted to family members who could use the PC, but you could also make a very nice holiday
gift out of the PC also, if it’s in decent condition. Have a nephew that likes playing PC games? Maybe purchase a decent video
card and gift the computer to him/her this Christmas as a gaming PC.
If you don’t have any family who would utilize the PC, you can also donate it to a cause. Most commonly, PCs are donated to
local schools or other non-profits who could use the computers. Local libraries are also a positive place to donate, because
they usually receive limited funding and have mid-range computers which are used by many people. Do not donate the
computer to a college… they charge each student anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 per semester to attend. They don’t
need donations, they are making plenty of money.

7. Children’s Computer
If you have kids, you could simply designate the extra PC as a children’s computer. This would likely add some insurance to
your PC while also giving your kids an opportunity to learn more about technology. Instruct them on how to install programs
and games, and encourage them to learn technology now, because they will be using it in the future. Also encourage them to
get outside and play with their friends! Technology isn’t everything.

8. Parts PC/Plan B
Another popular usage for extra computers is using them as Parts PCs or as a Plan B, should an existing PC fail or break
down. For example, if the hard drive, RAM, optical drive, etc… goes out on your primary PC, you could simply swap out the
parts from the extra PC and you’d be set to go, not having to purchase new components.
Additionally, should your primary computer fail all together, you could simply replace it with the extra PC.

9. Web Server
If you have a high speed internet connection such as cable or DSL, you can utilize the extra PC as a basic web server. With a
web server, you can host your own website, blog or even email, so no hosting fees! Here’s my guide on setting up your own
web server (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-xp-tips/setup-iis-windows-xp-web-server/).

10. Surveillance System
Surveillance systems are camera driven, but the core, like mostly anything technology these days, is usually based off of a
computer. Thus, you could purchase some compatible surveillance cameras for your home and use the extra PC as a
monitoring station for the system.

# Bonus
None of the above extra PC uses for you? Here are some additional options:
Build your own personal cloud server (http://www.online-tech-tips.com/cool-websites/build-your-own-personal-cloudstorage-server/)
Sell the computer – part it out and sell parts individually or sell as a whole
Contribute to open source projects – connect the extra PC to the internet and contribute to projects such as Berkley’s
SETI@Home (http://setiathome.ssl.berkeley.edu/)
Giveaway – if you have a website, blog or even YouTube channel, you could giveaway the computer to a loyal fan or
follower
Auction for charity – Auction off the computer at a local or online auction, with 100% of the proceedings going to your
favorite charity
Install the PC into your vehicle and use it as a mobile computer – add-on a Wi-Fi mobile hotspot device from your wireless
provider and get internet on the go
Use it as a dedicated firewall, router or antivirus layer
Convert the extra computer into a gaming server for your favorite game
Make someone’s day – Go into your local Best Buy or Frys and people watch those who are considering purchasing a new
PC. Find a worthy person and offer to give them the PC for free, saving them up to $500 that they would have spent on a
new PC, on the spot! Do not offer the PC to any man wearing a Gucci jacket or any woman with a Louis Vuitton purse.
Learn something new – Install an operating system that you are unfamiliar with, use it as a coding/programming
computer, etc…
Thank you for stopping by the site for today’s post, which lists 20 ways in total to utilize a spare or extra computer. If any of
our site visitors have any other uses for extra computers, feel free to list them in the comments. Enjoy!

1

There are 1 comments, care to add yours?

(http://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/hdg-guide-what-to-dowith-an-extra-pc/#comments)

 Tweet This
 Facebook Like
 Google+
(http://twitter.com/share? (http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?
(http://plus.google.com/share?
url=http://helpdeskgeek.com/howu=http://helpdeskgeek.com/howurl=http://helpdeskgeek.com/howto/hdg-guide-what-toto/hdg-guide-what-toto/hdg-guide-what-todo-with-an-extrado-with-an-extrado-with-an-extra-pc/)
pc/&text=HDG Guide –
pc/&t=HDG Guide –
What to do with an
What to do with an
Extra PC?
Extra PC?)
&via=akishore)

One Response to “HDG Guide – What to do with an Extra PC?”
10.27.12
(http://helpdeskgeek.com/howto/hdg-guide-what-to-dowith-an-extra-pc/#comment144454)

Michael
Wow! That was a *great* deal, and I’d like to get in on that sort of system for the local school!

Leave a Reply
Name *

Mail *

Website

Comment *

Submit ()

ASE E M KISHOR E
Founder of Help Desk Geek and managing editor.
He began blogging in 2007 and quit his job in
2010 to blog full-time.

SIGN UP FOR DAILY EMAIL N EWSLETTER

Enter your email

CON N ECT WITH US

ABOUT H ELP DESK GEEK

Go

Welcome to Help Desk Geek- a blog full of help desk tips for
IT Professionals. My name is Aseem Kishore and I work as a
Systems Analyst in Dallas, TX. I graduated from Emory
University in Atlanta, GA in 2002 with a degree in Computer
Science and Mathematics.
Read More (http://helpdeskgeek.com/about/)

(mailto:akishore@helpdeskgeek.com) 
(http://www.youtube.com/user/aseemkishore1234) 
(https://plus.google.com/b/118345103779743518985/118345103779743518985/posts)
 (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Help-DeskGeek/183299011719864) 
(http://twitter.com/akishore)  (/feed/rss/)

Home (/)

About (/about/)

Contact (/contact/)

Archive (/archives/)

Featured Post (/category/featured-posts/)

Reviews (/category/reviews/)

More Related Content

More from Trường Tiền

Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2Trường Tiền
 
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...Trường Tiền
 
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it Trường Tiền
 
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...Trường Tiền
 
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefileHdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefileTrường Tiền
 
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...Trường Tiền
 
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...Trường Tiền
 
Recover accidentally deleted files in windows
Recover accidentally deleted files in windows    Recover accidentally deleted files in windows
Recover accidentally deleted files in windows Trường Tiền
 
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2Trường Tiền
 
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it Trường Tiền
 
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...Trường Tiền
 
Hdg explains what is the system reserved partition
Hdg explains   what is the system reserved partition  Hdg explains   what is the system reserved partition
Hdg explains what is the system reserved partition Trường Tiền
 
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefileHdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefileTrường Tiền
 
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...Trường Tiền
 

More from Trường Tiền (20)

Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
 
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...
 
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it
 
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
 
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefileHdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
 
Deu datasheet rev_u
Deu datasheet rev_uDeu datasheet rev_u
Deu datasheet rev_u
 
Common port
Common portCommon port
Common port
 
Cc proxy
Cc proxyCc proxy
Cc proxy
 
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...
 
Common port
Common portCommon port
Common port
 
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem   chào mừng đến ...
Hướng dẫn cấu hình hạn chế truy cập internet trên adsl modem chào mừng đến ...
 
Deu datasheet rev_u
Deu datasheet rev_uDeu datasheet rev_u
Deu datasheet rev_u
 
Cc proxy
Cc proxyCc proxy
Cc proxy
 
Recover accidentally deleted files in windows
Recover accidentally deleted files in windows    Recover accidentally deleted files in windows
Recover accidentally deleted files in windows
 
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
Install .net framework 3.5, 3.0, 2
 
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it Htg explains  what is the windows page file and should you disable it
Htg explains what is the windows page file and should you disable it
 
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
How to add the windows calculator to the quick access toolbar in microsoft ex...
 
Hdg explains what is the system reserved partition
Hdg explains   what is the system reserved partition  Hdg explains   what is the system reserved partition
Hdg explains what is the system reserved partition
 
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefileHdg explains   swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
Hdg explains swapfile.sys, hiberfil.sys and pagefile
 
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css   help des...
4 websites for learning javascript, j query, python, html, and css help des...
 

Recently uploaded

UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...
UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...
UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...UbiTrack UK
 
Igniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration Workflows
Igniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration WorkflowsIgniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration Workflows
Igniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration WorkflowsSafe Software
 
Cybersecurity Workshop #1.pptx
Cybersecurity Workshop #1.pptxCybersecurity Workshop #1.pptx
Cybersecurity Workshop #1.pptxGDSC PJATK
 
UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7
UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7
UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7DianaGray10
 
20230202 - Introduction to tis-py
20230202 - Introduction to tis-py20230202 - Introduction to tis-py
20230202 - Introduction to tis-pyJamie (Taka) Wang
 
Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...
Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...
Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...DianaGray10
 
Designing A Time bound resource download URL
Designing A Time bound resource download URLDesigning A Time bound resource download URL
Designing A Time bound resource download URLRuncy Oommen
 
UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1
UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1
UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1DianaGray10
 
UiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation Developers
UiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation DevelopersUiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation Developers
UiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation DevelopersUiPathCommunity
 
COMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online Collaboration
COMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online CollaborationCOMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online Collaboration
COMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online Collaborationbruanjhuli
 
OpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability Adventure
OpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability AdventureOpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability Adventure
OpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability AdventureEric D. Schabell
 
IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019
IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019
IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019IES VE
 
The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...
The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...
The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...Aggregage
 
Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024
Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024
Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024SkyPlanner
 
Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.
Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.
Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.YounusS2
 
UiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdf
UiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdfUiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdf
UiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdfDianaGray10
 
COMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a Website
COMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a WebsiteCOMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a Website
COMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a Websitedgelyza
 

Recently uploaded (20)

UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...
UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...
UWB Technology for Enhanced Indoor and Outdoor Positioning in Physiological M...
 
Igniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration Workflows
Igniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration WorkflowsIgniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration Workflows
Igniting Next Level Productivity with AI-Infused Data Integration Workflows
 
Cybersecurity Workshop #1.pptx
Cybersecurity Workshop #1.pptxCybersecurity Workshop #1.pptx
Cybersecurity Workshop #1.pptx
 
UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7
UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7
UiPath Studio Web workshop series - Day 7
 
20230202 - Introduction to tis-py
20230202 - Introduction to tis-py20230202 - Introduction to tis-py
20230202 - Introduction to tis-py
 
Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...
Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...
Connector Corner: Extending LLM automation use cases with UiPath GenAI connec...
 
Designing A Time bound resource download URL
Designing A Time bound resource download URLDesigning A Time bound resource download URL
Designing A Time bound resource download URL
 
UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1
UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1
UiPath Platform: The Backend Engine Powering Your Automation - Session 1
 
UiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation Developers
UiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation DevelopersUiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation Developers
UiPath Community: AI for UiPath Automation Developers
 
COMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online Collaboration
COMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online CollaborationCOMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online Collaboration
COMPUTER 10: Lesson 7 - File Storage and Online Collaboration
 
OpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability Adventure
OpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability AdventureOpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability Adventure
OpenShift Commons Paris - Choose Your Own Observability Adventure
 
20150722 - AGV
20150722 - AGV20150722 - AGV
20150722 - AGV
 
IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019
IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019
IESVE Software for Florida Code Compliance Using ASHRAE 90.1-2019
 
The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...
The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...
The Data Metaverse: Unpacking the Roles, Use Cases, and Tech Trends in Data a...
 
Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024
Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024
Salesforce Miami User Group Event - 1st Quarter 2024
 
Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.
Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.
Basic Building Blocks of Internet of Things.
 
UiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdf
UiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdfUiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdf
UiPath Solutions Management Preview - Northern CA Chapter - March 22.pdf
 
201610817 - edge part1
201610817 - edge part1201610817 - edge part1
201610817 - edge part1
 
COMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a Website
COMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a WebsiteCOMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a Website
COMPUTER 10 Lesson 8 - Building a Website
 
20230104 - machine vision
20230104 - machine vision20230104 - machine vision
20230104 - machine vision
 

Hdg guide what to do with an extra pc - help desk geek

  • 1. (http://helpdeskgeek.com) Archives (/archives/) Featured (/category/featured-posts/) Reviews (/category/reviews/) Search HDG Guide – What to do with an Extra PC? October 22nd, 2012 by Aseem Kishore | File in: How-To (http://helpdeskgeek.com/category/how-to/) I recently came across a great deal on a used PC. Before, I only owned one computer, but because this PC was priced so Categories DAILY NEWSLETTER Enter your email Go aggressively and I’ve been wanting to have an extra PC (with Windows 8 approaching), I didn’t pass it up. In today’s post, we will review the top 10 uses for an extra computer. The PC that I purchased is a Dell Core 2 Duo Desktop… for $20.00! It came with:  (mailto:akishore@helpdeskgeek.com)  (https://plus.google.com/b/118345  (https://www.facebook.com/pages/H DeskGeek/183299011719864)  (http://twitter.com/akishore)  (/feed/rss/) RECENT POSTS Refresh, Reinstall or Restore Windows 8 Case (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/refresh- Power Supply reinstall-or-restore-windows-8/) CPU Heat sink HDG Guide – Storage Spaces and Pools in Cooling Fans Windows 8 (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows- I have an extra hard drive, so I will simply need to purchase some cheap: 8/hdg-guide-storage-spaces-and-pools-inwindows-8/) RAM memory Optical drive and it should be ready to go. I’m hoping to find some cheap RAM and a cheap CD/DVD drive for around $30.00, so that I will have only spend $50.00 on the whole thing. I plan to install Windows 8 on this PC, but as far as actual usage, I do most of my work on my other computer. So, I’ve been doing a bit of research on the best uses for extra PCs. Here are some of the most popular uses for an extra PC that may just be collecting dust, and also a few untraditional uses you may have not considered. Install Windows Media Center on Windows 8 (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/installwindows-media-center-on-windows-8/) 20 of The Best TV Streaming Devices (http://helpdeskgeek.com/free-tools-review/20-ofthe-best-tv-streaming-devices/) 1. Extra PC If you only have one primary computer in your home (or a few), and find yourself on the PC a lot, you may simply want to consider adding an extra PC to your home. Particularly for people who have families or own homes with several rooms and significant square ft. It can be convenient to have multiple PCs spread out through the home, so that you don’t have to carry a notebook around with you, or if you have a desktop as a primary computer, having to go to the computer room each time you want to use a PC. For the modern, technology based homes, people have even installed computers in their garages and kitchens. 2. Media Server/File Server If you have a multi-user home with several computers already, you may simply want to setup the extra PC as a media server or file server. Check out my previous post on 7 programs to turn your PC into a streaming media server (http://www.onlinetech-tips.com/software-reviews/7-programs-to-turn-your-pc-into-a-streaming-media-center/). RELATED POSTS HDG Guide – Storage Spaces and Pools in Windows 8 (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows8/hdg-guide-storage-spaces-and-pools-inwindows-8/) Windows 8 Device Guide (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/windows-8device-guide/) As a media server, you can store all of your music, videos, photos and other files on the PC, share them with your other computers in the home and even stream the media files to your TV. The PC will serve as a centralized location just for storing your video, music and photo library. HDG Guide to Customizing and Organizing the Windows 8 Start Screen As a file server, you can share files, folders, documents, etc… with all (or select) computers in your home or even across the (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/hdg-guide- Internet. This makes it ultra convenient for basic file sharing, but also makes it simple to transfer computer files or data from to-customizing-and-organizing-the-windows-8- one PC to the other on your home network or to others remotely, without having to burn discs or use USB drives. start-screen/) 3. HTPC HTPC, or Home Theater PC, is another very popular use for extra computers. With an extra PC as a HTPC, you can setup your computer in combination with your TV to do things like play Netflix, Hulu, Amazon VOD, etc… Additionally, if you have a TV tuner card, USB tuner or network tuner, you can setup the HTPC + Windows Media Center, which will allow for TIVO HDG Explains – Swapfile.sys, Hiberfil.sys and Pagefile.sys in Windows 8 (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/hdgexplains-swapfile-sys-hiberfil-sys-and-pagefile-
  • 2. functionality (DVR) and even a live guide (if you don’t already have a cable box). Some of the most popular HTPC platforms sys-in-windows-8/) are: Windows Media Center (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/products/windows-media-center) Should You Upgrade to Windows 8? XBMC (Xbox Media Center) (http://xbmc.org/) (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/should-you- Plex (http://plexapp.com/) upgrade-to-windows-8/) Boxee (http://www.boxee.tv/) 4. Backup PC If you don’t have a NAS or backup drive for your important files and data on existing computers and aren’t backing up your data, you may want to consider using the extra PC as a backup device. Using free software such as FreeNAS (http://www.freenas.org/), you can very simply setup the extra PC as a network backup which can be used to backup multiple computers. Additionally, you can purchase an extra internal hard drive for the computer and set it up in mirrored RAID, which will strengthen your backup plan. Not wanting to use the extra PC as a backup PC, but do need a way to backup your data? Here are 7 additional options for backup (http://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/seven-ways-to-backup-a-computer/). 5. Storage PC If the extra PC has significant hard drive capacity, you could simply use it as a generic storage location for files, programs, installers and other PC data. Just install an operating system, connect it to your router/home network, and use the PC to store all of the bulk software and files that you want to have, but that take up too much space or you prefer not to have on your primary PC; kind of like a external hard drive. 6. Donate/Gift If you believe that the extra PC will be of little to no use to you, you may want to consider donating or gifting the PC. Most commonly, extra computers are gifted to family members who could use the PC, but you could also make a very nice holiday gift out of the PC also, if it’s in decent condition. Have a nephew that likes playing PC games? Maybe purchase a decent video card and gift the computer to him/her this Christmas as a gaming PC. If you don’t have any family who would utilize the PC, you can also donate it to a cause. Most commonly, PCs are donated to local schools or other non-profits who could use the computers. Local libraries are also a positive place to donate, because they usually receive limited funding and have mid-range computers which are used by many people. Do not donate the computer to a college… they charge each student anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 per semester to attend. They don’t need donations, they are making plenty of money. 7. Children’s Computer If you have kids, you could simply designate the extra PC as a children’s computer. This would likely add some insurance to your PC while also giving your kids an opportunity to learn more about technology. Instruct them on how to install programs and games, and encourage them to learn technology now, because they will be using it in the future. Also encourage them to get outside and play with their friends! Technology isn’t everything. 8. Parts PC/Plan B Another popular usage for extra computers is using them as Parts PCs or as a Plan B, should an existing PC fail or break down. For example, if the hard drive, RAM, optical drive, etc… goes out on your primary PC, you could simply swap out the parts from the extra PC and you’d be set to go, not having to purchase new components. Additionally, should your primary computer fail all together, you could simply replace it with the extra PC. 9. Web Server If you have a high speed internet connection such as cable or DSL, you can utilize the extra PC as a basic web server. With a web server, you can host your own website, blog or even email, so no hosting fees! Here’s my guide on setting up your own web server (http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-xp-tips/setup-iis-windows-xp-web-server/). 10. Surveillance System Surveillance systems are camera driven, but the core, like mostly anything technology these days, is usually based off of a computer. Thus, you could purchase some compatible surveillance cameras for your home and use the extra PC as a monitoring station for the system. # Bonus None of the above extra PC uses for you? Here are some additional options: Build your own personal cloud server (http://www.online-tech-tips.com/cool-websites/build-your-own-personal-cloudstorage-server/) Sell the computer – part it out and sell parts individually or sell as a whole Contribute to open source projects – connect the extra PC to the internet and contribute to projects such as Berkley’s SETI@Home (http://setiathome.ssl.berkeley.edu/) Giveaway – if you have a website, blog or even YouTube channel, you could giveaway the computer to a loyal fan or follower Auction for charity – Auction off the computer at a local or online auction, with 100% of the proceedings going to your favorite charity Install the PC into your vehicle and use it as a mobile computer – add-on a Wi-Fi mobile hotspot device from your wireless provider and get internet on the go
  • 3. Use it as a dedicated firewall, router or antivirus layer Convert the extra computer into a gaming server for your favorite game Make someone’s day – Go into your local Best Buy or Frys and people watch those who are considering purchasing a new PC. Find a worthy person and offer to give them the PC for free, saving them up to $500 that they would have spent on a new PC, on the spot! Do not offer the PC to any man wearing a Gucci jacket or any woman with a Louis Vuitton purse. Learn something new – Install an operating system that you are unfamiliar with, use it as a coding/programming computer, etc… Thank you for stopping by the site for today’s post, which lists 20 ways in total to utilize a spare or extra computer. If any of our site visitors have any other uses for extra computers, feel free to list them in the comments. Enjoy! 1 There are 1 comments, care to add yours? (http://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/hdg-guide-what-to-dowith-an-extra-pc/#comments)  Tweet This  Facebook Like  Google+ (http://twitter.com/share? (http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php? (http://plus.google.com/share? url=http://helpdeskgeek.com/howu=http://helpdeskgeek.com/howurl=http://helpdeskgeek.com/howto/hdg-guide-what-toto/hdg-guide-what-toto/hdg-guide-what-todo-with-an-extrado-with-an-extrado-with-an-extra-pc/) pc/&text=HDG Guide – pc/&t=HDG Guide – What to do with an What to do with an Extra PC? Extra PC?) &via=akishore) One Response to “HDG Guide – What to do with an Extra PC?” 10.27.12 (http://helpdeskgeek.com/howto/hdg-guide-what-to-dowith-an-extra-pc/#comment144454) Michael Wow! That was a *great* deal, and I’d like to get in on that sort of system for the local school! Leave a Reply Name * Mail * Website Comment * Submit () ASE E M KISHOR E Founder of Help Desk Geek and managing editor. He began blogging in 2007 and quit his job in 2010 to blog full-time. SIGN UP FOR DAILY EMAIL N EWSLETTER Enter your email CON N ECT WITH US ABOUT H ELP DESK GEEK Go Welcome to Help Desk Geek- a blog full of help desk tips for IT Professionals. My name is Aseem Kishore and I work as a Systems Analyst in Dallas, TX. I graduated from Emory University in Atlanta, GA in 2002 with a degree in Computer Science and Mathematics. Read More (http://helpdeskgeek.com/about/) (mailto:akishore@helpdeskgeek.com)  (http://www.youtube.com/user/aseemkishore1234)  (https://plus.google.com/b/118345103779743518985/118345103779743518985/posts)  (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Help-DeskGeek/183299011719864)  (http://twitter.com/akishore)  (/feed/rss/) Home (/) About (/about/) Contact (/contact/) Archive (/archives/) Featured Post (/category/featured-posts/) Reviews (/category/reviews/)