This thread is for anyone who either wants to get rid of an old PC (Computers) or "bits" and rather than just "dump" it - and is happy to give it away to a good home.

Also anyone who wants to give a PC etc a good home, or knows someone who has the space and would be happy to collect, please post here.

Very funny folks

Seriously - I've just been asked by someone whose just got a laptop, and wants to get rid of their old Tower PC which is taking up too much room. They went to the local Dump yesterday, but it was closed so still have it.

Anyone know a student or someone who wants to learn on it (even to pull it apart) its available in Hampshire.

Actually I know the location (Bournmouth) of quite a few computers which are getting dumped (so free to anyone who can collect) if there are any takers.

Is it possible to obtain a rough spec on any of these machines in order to ascertain compatability with the interested parties requirements

I know of local deserving causes, including my pensioner's group, who would welcome old computers in working order.
Could collect in Bournemouth or Ringwood area.
Please contact me on this BB (sqidd), or better still ring me on
01425 650772 Bill Pearce.

Sorry if this post seems negative !

I have a lot of experience in the area and its a complete minefield and can be very expensive.

There are several potential problems.
1) Health and Safety
2) Software licences
3) Logistics
4) Support.
5) Cost, yes I mean that, cost.
6) Possible tax implications if given to staff.
7) Write off issues within companies.

For these reasons and others many large companies either scrap or sell all old computers. I know this may seem like a waste but unless you are dealing with a very small number any form of direct donation becomes a major issue.

The machines I know of are "you get what you see"! They are mostly not suitable for the internet, and some will not have sound cards.

Getting spec details seems to be difficult, as the companies/people getting rid of them, have upgraded to new machines and don't know much about the old ones, except they work! They seem to have either windows 98 or 2000 loaded on them. They are basic machines, OK to learn on or use for simple functions like writing a letter or doing simple accounts, or playing the games (the old ones, that older people seem to get addicted to and bore the young!) Upgrades would not be worth doing (if they were the people getting rid of them would not be getting rid of them).

Bill - I will pass on your phone number, but everyone is taking the Chistmas break easy - so it may be a couple of weeks before you get a call!

Just flicking through the threads and saw this one, and reminded me of an email I got a few weeks back. Try this link to find out about an organisation where you can donate a PC to a developing country.

http://www.bridgethedigitaldivide.com/donate.htm

I have no experience of them and this is not a recommendation, just a pointer for those that are interested.

In my own firm, I would agree with previous posts that we as businesses are put off donating old PC's to good causes because of the hassle of clearing data, (properly rather than just simple formatting) + we tend to run them into the ground and because we live with the individual foibles, (a bit like a car!), I would feel a bit guilty of giving a knackered PC or the bits to someone else, though I suppose something is better than nothing.

Anyway, have a good christmas everyone.