Folks:
David Meyer mentioned something to me a while back that seemed like a
good idea, but might not work too well because we're not incorporated as
a non-profit. However, it got me thinking, and I thought of a twist on it.
His original idea was to solicit area businesses for their old computers
(instead of them dumping them in dumpsters), put Linux on them, and then
donate them to schools, etc. The advantage to businesses would be a tax
write-off by donating them to a non-profit organization.
While we could still do something like that, it would take more
convincing for area businesses, and would not benefit them as much (I
don't think they could claim a deduction for donating them to us). Of
course, for businesses intending to *trash* their computers, this would
be a better alternative for them.
However, nothing would stop us doing something similar among our ranks.
The idea would be that if you have an old computer or computers just
gathering dust, you could put Linux on it and donate it to a local
school or nursing facility or something. This might require a more
lightweight distro, since older computers usually have less RAM, and
many current distros require a fair amount to install in. I'd say that
the computer would need a working (and tested) 10 or 100 Base T NIC
card, a standard video card (at least 800x600 resolution), and a
smattering of GUI applications, like an email client, office suite (SIAG
Office is a lightweight alternative), some games, etc. Some computers
would only be suitable for servers or firewalls, and could be loaded
with IPCOP or Coyote firewalls.
There are probably logistics that would need to be worked out. You could
take this stuff to your nearest school when completed. But if not, who
would do it instead? Could these computers be brought to meetings? Could
someone there do the actual work if you were unwilling to?
There are probably many ways to do this. My main concern is that the
computers be *usable* for the intended users.
In any case, it's something to think about.
Paul
-- Paul M. Foster ----------------------------------------------------------------------- This list is provided as an unmoderated internet service by Networked Knowledge Systems (NKS). Views and opinions expressed in messages posted are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of NKS or any of its employees.
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