Resources for Older Computers

Yes, you can use that Macintosh Classic or IBM/clone 386/486 to surf the Net! You can also use older computers to:

• do word processing
• create spread sheets
• receive and send e-mail
• do record keeping
• create databases
• create Web sites
• create publications (brochures, book layouts, newsletters, etc.)
• build a fish tank
• keep a room warm (IBM/clones only; Macs are, literally, too "cool")

And lots more!! The Coyote Communications  Web site where this article came from was originally created and maintained with a Macintosh Classic II -- that's a small black & white screened computer with just 8 MB of internal RAM! I used the software that came with the machine, as well as shareware and freeware I downloaded from the Internet, to create this site.

[NOTE: I upgraded to a new computer -- a Performa 6300 in 1996 -- only because I needed a bigger monitor, more external memory, and new versions of database and desktop publishing software. And I have to say that I missed that reliable workhorse every time my Performa crashed. I upgraded to an iBook in 2001, and I must say, it reminds me of that Mac Class II in its personality and reliability.]

Also, as was pointed out by the article "How Much Technology is too much?" in the Washington Post (10/6/97):

Software is evolving faster than the hardware and system software needed for its operation, application software such as word processing are slow to reflect the best features the operating environments have to offer, and there's a growing disparity between computer power available in the box and computer power actually used. The focus on issues of productivity shouldn't hinge on faster processors or more memory, instead it should involve creative and efficient use of computers. This "gap of delivery" is probably because it's simpler to announce great leaps in technology than for users to realize the actual benefit.

And yet more comments on older computers from a list I read:

I seriously dispute the need for $2,000 computers. Particularly for those of us working in antipoverty and community service that is a terrible waste of money that can better be spent on stipends for the underemployed and unemployed to give them the freedom to learn. What you need in a computer depends entirely on what you are going to do with the computer. But that said, it is possible to work with an expandable $300-400 computer and do virtually anything you want to do. I know, I am working on a $300 nonexpandable at home, so I am avoiding that trap with the computers we purchase for our office and community classrooms. Even heavy graphics can be done by uping the RAM and making sure you have a large enough Hard Drive or other access to storage (burnable CD's, ZIP's etc). Until recently we taught everything from beginners to Coldfusion, Cisco, Web Design and Photoshop on Pentium IIs. A low budget computer is a real step up to us.

I have just completed the first of many Computer Buying Clubs for our students. For $150 each student takes home a monitor, a mouse, a keyboard, speakers, and a CPU with modem and 2 USB connections. The CPU is clocked at 133mHz, with 32 megs of RAM (you can upgrade) and about 4 gigs of HD. It also comes with a one year warranty. That's one year of replacing broken parts free, including labor. Although our students may not be able to play Quake or use AutoCAD on these machines, they can surf the Web, use Microsoft Office, scan, and print. They can also use the ever growing list of educational software that's available to adult students and their children. That seems like a lot to me. And it does to our students too. That's why they bought them and why other students continue to ask us when the next club will meet again. Disposable computers aside, there are enough low-cost alternatives out there (and organizations like Computers for Schools) to get students on the other side of the "digital divide".

Not-for-profit and public sector organizations often don't have the option to buy or to upgrade their computers to the latest and greatest toys on the market. And older computers can't use the latest software and systems version. Still, you can get a lot out of such older computer systems.

With permission, I have reposted these essays on and tip sheets on my Web site, to offer further support for using older computers (while they are Macintosh-specific, there are some general ideas in these essays that can be applied to any older computer; IBM/Clone information is farther down on this page):

• What's Wrong With Older Macs? (Yes, the Word "Obsolete" is Pejorative) by Phil Shapiro, this article describes how many people buy new, expensive Macintosh systems when older systems could have just as easily accomodated their needs and for less money.
• Why Someone Might Need an Older and Not a Newer Macintosh by Christopher Sunner. Includes information on what an older Mac can really do, how to evaluate your computer needs, and software suggestions for word processing, graphics, spreadsheets, finances and utilities on older macs.
• Accelerating Your Older Mac by Christopher Sunner.This is a guide on how to accelerate your older Macintosh through the use of various methods such as good maintenance, clockchipping, program usage, accelerators, and other means.
• Putting Donated Mac Pluses and SEs to Good Use in Schools and Libraries by Phil Shapiro. Includes tips on using Pluses and SEs without a hard drive, and ideas for putting these computers to work with one meg of RAM.

Choosing an ISP for Your Older Computer

• A good provider will make clear what type of payment plan is in use. The two most common are: pay as you go, and monthly or annual fee. The latter is almost always the better deal. If you use the annual plan, however, make sure the service gauges the year from the date you sign the check, not January 1. Also, an ISP should NOT charge you long distance fees for using the ISP from your home or business.
• The ISP should provide its services and rules in writing; many choose to put this information on their Web site, which can be a problem if you don't have Internet access.

• Do not use a provider that is brand new -- look for someone who is established. Ask around, and call the Better Business Bureau to double check. Ask for references.

  Be sure to find out just what equipment is required for the service. Ask the service if their service and the software they are going to send you is going to be compatible with your computer resources, explaining exactly:

  • What amount of memory you have (386, 486, Mac Classic II with 8 megs of internal memory, etc.)
  • What operating system you are using (Windows 3.1, Macintosh 7.5.5, etc.)
  • What modem and modem software you are using
  • If you already have a mail reader, what version of that reader you have.
• Ask if you can you use an older version of Eudora to read your mail with this ISP, or will their e-mail reader be compatible with your computer and software? If you use an older version of Eudora and modem software (such as MacPPP instead of FreePPP), will the ISP staff be able to provide you with documentation or phone support on how to set this up? If they say yes, get the person's name and record the date and time of the call!! If it turns out not to be true, you will need to seek a refund, and you will need to have this information to get that refund!

Offline Resources

If you live in a metropolitan area, check the phone book for used software outlets. Also, call the local Goodwill -- many are operating computer refurbishing programs, and offer used software at a discounted price.

Online Resources

Many companies feature downloadable versions of older software on their Web sites. For instance (last I checked), Eudora.com still has old versions of its mail reader on its Web site.

There are also these suggested Web sites specifically for users of "older" machines (there are more, but these are my favorite):

• Macintosh SE Support Pages
  This is the page for people who like to squeeze the last bit of toothpaste out of the tube, and the last ounce of performance from their ancient Macintosh SE, a late-80s machine with Motorola's 68000 CPU and a 9-inch black-and-white screen. Includes information on:
• • Web browsers for the SE (and other black & white Macs)
  • Adding hard drives and removables
  • What printers work with an SE?
  • Upgrading 800k floppy drive to a 1.4MB Superdrive
  • Opening the case, and adding RAM
  • Transferring files from PC to SE
  • Fixing common faults
  • Installing an 'SE to SE/30 Upgrade Kit'
  • Useful suppliers and online resources [EXCELLENT LIST!]
  • SE description & specification
  • SE and SE/30 pinouts
• Low End Mac offers a tremendous amount of resources for both older and new macs, including several e-mail discussion groups for different brands of vintage Macs. Lots of info on how to get cutting edge functionality out of trailing edge (or any) Mac hardware and software.
• For Mac users, VersionTracker.com is invaluable. Look for the link on that page which will generate a list of all their links to freeware downloads. Loads of shareware, beta test and updates on that site, too, updated daily.
• Great Ideas for Old Macs
  Even in old age, Macs clearly rule! Provides ideas for the home and home office, businesses, higher ed, schools, nonprofits, community groups... and decorating!
• ftp.utexas.edu, an archive by University of Texas
  A powerhouse FTP of useful Apple software, all free.
• Each Nerd In His Small Corner
  A site designed to make it easy to find older software for older computers. It's got links to older freeware, shareware, and commercial programs, mostly for the IBM/clone PC.
• ftp.wustl.edu, an archive by Washington State
  Just about everything you need to fill your IBM/clone PC hard drive. Software is all freeware and shareware, and easy to download.
• Linux Documentation Project Homepage
  Linux is a good program to use because you can install is on DOS if you dont have any type of Windows. Lots of helpful links.
• Web Browsers Open FAQ What browsers work on older machines (Macs, machines running older versions of Windows, Amiga systems, machines running old MSDOS systems, NeXTStep/OpenStep systems, VM/ CMS systems, etc.)

MAC/PC User Groups

• "MUGs" and "PUGs" can help you find older versions of software for use on your older model machine (mac user groups tend to be better about this, but there are a few good user groups to find software for older IBM/clone PCs). They are also great for trouble-shooting. To find users groups, visit your favorite search engine and try the words "PC" or "Mac" and "user group." Also try finding a local group via the Association of Personal Computer User Groups (APCUG).
• CNet  is an excellent place to find downloads of older versions of browsers and various other software.
• alt.tech-support.recovery
  For ANYONE, regardless of your actual job title, that helps fellow staff members, family, friends, etc. with computer issues. The FAQ is posted regularly, and includes an excellent list of Web sites that can help you trouble-shoot various computer/software-related problems, including information on older computers and software. If you get an error message when you click on this or any newsgroup link, your Internet provider does not subscribe to that newsgroup; or, you cannot access newsgroups via your Internet browser; you can try accessing it through DejaNews .
• alt.technology.obsolete
  Not very active, but it's worth a shot if you have a question.

Finding Used Computers and Parts

NOTE: If you buy a used computer, you definitely should contact the original manufacturer and check into buying a service plan for the machine.

• Share the Technology Computer Recycling Project
  Provides a searchable national computer donation database to connect computer donors and charities seeking donations.
• Check your local yellow pages or a search engine for computer recycling centers in your area. For instance, many Goodwill agencies in the U.S. take donated computers, inspect them and, if necessary, refurbish them (which is performed by job trainees and community volunteers). They then sell these computers at a greatly discounted price. If a computer cannot be repaired, these Goodwill stores will disassemble it for recycling.
• Sun Remarketing
  Systems, scanners, software, parts, monitors, printers, scanners, peripherals, and more for older macintoshes. A for-profit company, but it's a great resource for community-based organizations.
• 2nd Chance PC.
  A UK-based company specialising in selling refurbished computers, predominantly Macs." They have a page regarding pre-G3 Power Macs .
• Build a Fish Tank Out of Your Old Computer Monitor: Macquarium

A reader who chose to remain anonymous wrote that a another useful purpose of old IBM/clones (but not Macs, as they are, literally, too "cool") "is to put them in rooms, greenhouses, sheds, etc. that need a little heat during the heating season and run a copy of the Distributed.net client. That way, you are heating the space and donating the computer's time to a good cause." That means, however, that the computer has to be connected to the Internet. "An older PC can produce 100 to 200 watts of continuous heat while under load (from the Distributed.net client) and you might not need to by an electric heater. I actually do this to keep my basement a little warmer during the winter."

Also view:

• Keep Your Computer Humming: Basic Computer Maintenance and Problem Solving General tips for all computers, and specific information for both Macintosh and IBM/Clone PC maintenance and problem-solving, basic printer problem-solving, and things to do before you call technical support.
• Free Help With Databases & Software