Tech: Do you need a Computer?

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Jan 09 - 12:02 AM

Sometimes it takes a village. . .

to build a computer, but I am happy to report back that after getting over the flu, the recipient of Dan's computer has had time to work with the used Dell computer and bring it into a conformation that will work well with his work and hobbies at home. And it is such a pleasure to have a computer that is so responsive, one doesn't have to wait and wait for it to get around to loading pages or programs. It just DOES IT!

Without spelling out the entire story, I will say that he is finally (this month!) up to full salary again, but with credit still in shreds, a new computer would have been impossible for the conceivable future. With friends donating software and hardware and his own ingenuity (and many trips to the local Fry's) this is now a truly superior creature to the one that he was using for the last 8 years. Good thing memory is cheap these days: 128Meg RAM is now 2 Gig, 20Gig hard drive is now 500Gig, the CD player was swapped for a DVD burner (my christmas present hardware contribution, along with numerous small programs and a power cord).

There is something very rewarding about taking the raw material, a used box with a good chip, and through a little cash but mostly patience, turning it into a useful tool for years to come. And from there, my friend has remarked that it would be nice to be able to do something like that here in the community for someone else. When you go through all of the steps, figuring out the foibles of the software and hardware, you get a great refresher course in computing and computer building.

I've been struggling with my computer, but I got there through my own mistake. I uninstalled a proxy server that (had I known) should never have been installed on my home computer without being told that uninstalling it would eviscerate my operating system and take away everything, including the blinking cursor. I reinstalled and restored and generally limped along for a couple of weeks before I got a new hard drive and built up my operating system and array of programs from scratch. So my friend and I have been on a parallel quest and formed a small mutual-admiration society, congratulating each other on the accomplishment of a functioning computer. But his is the bigger accomplishment, because it brings him a functionality that has been lacking for a long time. He's talented, and now he has the machine that will let him do other kinds of work he does well. (He is my mentor when it comes to canning, and I gave him many pounds of produce out of my garden this summer. After a year of no canning, during many months of grief after the death of his long-time partner, he went on to win the blue ribbon for strawberry jelly at the Texas State Fair this year!)

Thank you very much, olddude, for making this possible. I hope that facilitating this kind of transformation of a used piece of office equipment into an important tool for someone who couldn't get there on his own brings you as much pleasure as it brings the recipient (and his friend!)

SRS

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Gurney
Date: 08 Dec 08 - 08:34 PM

Old Dude, a very merry Christmas to you, and to the corporation you work with.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Dec 08 - 06:46 PM

Can you use Windows programs with the Linux OS? I know there are a lot of open source programs that go with it that emulate or can read programs like Word.

I know this is a JohnInKansas or a Bill D. question (though it is something I've threatened to do myself for years, I get so tired of all of the OS nonsense from Microsoft, especially with VISTA.)

SRS

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: skipy
Date: 08 Dec 08 - 05:54 PM

Wonderful! Well done,
Skipy

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 08 Dec 08 - 05:37 PM

Guys
I finally got my Linux disks and I am installing the software, Ubuntu on the systems . That way you won't have to buy an operating system. They are going out this week my friends

DAn

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Rasener
Date: 08 Dec 08 - 01:26 PM

Old Dude is just a very nice person, who is thinking of others before himself.

He should be awarded The Order Of The Dude

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: kendall
Date: 08 Dec 08 - 01:16 PM

Now this is REAL Christmas spirit.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Dec 08 - 12:18 PM

Shipping cost sent.

I also need to post a nomination for "Coolest Secret Santa." This tool will make a huge difference in the life of a dear friend who has limped along for way too long now.

Thanks again, and we are on pins and needles awaiting the box!

SRS

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 04:01 PM

Dan, I think you should change your name to 'Whatacooldude!' :0)

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 03:03 PM

Right now it looks like 15 machines and 6 notebooks are going out the door so that pretty much takes care of what I was given. However if I should get more I will post for sure. I really hope this helps folks. They should last you while they are pretty current I think.

Dan

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Sorcha
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 02:14 PM

Olddude, I just PM'd you. Again.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Rapparee
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 11:15 AM

I thought this was going to be about being able to dump computers and just sort of tune into the WWW mentally.

Dan, see the PM I just sent.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 01:02 AM

At least you will be able to laugh when Spaw goes on one of his world famous essay's on the joys of farting or the walkabout guy

Are you kidding? Some of the stuff Spaw prints here at Mudcat could put someone in an early grave! Are you sure this is the best way to help someone who is ill? ;-D (Does an apoplexy of laughter count as "best medicine?")

SRS

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 12:53 AM

For some of our friend on chemo and too ill to sit at the desk. I will buy your software install it and make sure the built in wireless works on your notebook. At least you will be able to laugh when Spaw goes on one of his world famous essay's on the joys of farting or the walkabout guy

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 12:02 AM

It is amazing, sad and is eye opening to see that there are members of our community that are in such need. There are people who go to a library to log on because their computer is old, whipped and no money for a new one. Disabled people who don't come on much anymore because it is too hard to use their old desktop. People who cannot listen to the music we post because their machine running windows 95 won't play and no money for an upgrade. These times are hard for people very hard. We have to take care of each other. Not just this project, heck any one of you would do the same thing, but in all areas my friends. There are friends that are hurting a lot more then we all know

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Jeri
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 08:29 PM

Buncha verses, then:

cho: Oh, star of wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright.
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide with thy perfect light.

With no computer, life is Hell
So Baby Jesus, here's a Dell
Up in the loft there, with some software
It should work quite well
............. and some electriciteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
........ohhhhhh

Star of [etc.]

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 07:54 PM

LMAO, Bob!

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 07:45 PM

Bob
I cannot stop laughing
thank you

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Rasener
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 07:33 PM

OldDude
You are doing more than enough to provide the Machines. It is so thoughtful of you and you should be very proud of yourself.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 06:22 PM

WHY? Why do I do this? Only God knows why...

O.K. Kids, We'll call this one - "Bobby's attempt at humour..."

WARNING So, If your underwear is on too tight, or if your Mommy fondly referred to you as "my little psycho" you SHOULD NOT READ THIS POST! You might hurt yourself...

Q. How many Mudcatters does it take to GIVE AWAY a computer?

A. Apparently, a LOT of them.

NEWSFLASH!!!!!!!!!!!!

Reuters.....WWIII was narrowly averted on this day as a man who refers to himself as "olddude" innocently attempted to give away some computers. This simple gesture of generosity created a discussion on The Mudcat website, a Folk Music Forum, among members and guests. Forgetting that this forum is on THE INTERNET, and not a private tea party, the members heatedly debated what constituted "those in need" as "olddudes" intention was merely an attempt to give said computers to those who needed them most, and did not have the means to obtain a computer on their own...

Nanoseconds later, "olddude", the Al Quiada(Kayda, Kooda, Quidda..., hell, I can't remember how to spell it...) operative(not The Mudcatter) reportedly based in Lebanon, with links to Cuba read the link as he saw his name pop up on Google. He became "miffed"(closest translation from Arabic) for 2 reasons...1/Who is this guy using my name? And 2/How come I got left out from getting a computer, I'm living on Falafel over here...!?"
This quickly escalated to the sending of a small thermonuclear device attached to an email via the latest technology developed by Apple&Microsoft, directly to the server on which Mudcat is hosted. Fortunately, "olddude's"(The terrorist, not the Mudcatter) computer had a virus so the attempt was not successful. And Thankfully, we will all be able to enjoy our breakfasts tomorrow morn...

Odd that this all comes about as we stroll into the Christmas season, where in a manger, so long ago, a Savior was born. Gifts were given without qualification, and the Earth was at Peace.

Ho, Ho, Ho,(You callin' me a Ho? Step outside...)

Keep smilin'. It will all work out somehow...
bob

p.s. And if any Al Quidas(or certain Mudcatters) are reading this, I'm KIDDING, just KIDDING, or as Bob Hope used to say, "don't shoot, it's only ME!)

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 01:37 PM

PoppaGator
I never took it the wrong way my friend. Just wanted to let everyone know the specifics. Maybe we all at mudcat can help with that issue

Dan

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: PoppaGator
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 01:19 PM

Dan, I never meant to suggest that you go out and buy op-system software for these donated machines. You're doing enough, certainly.

What I did mean to suggest is that some recepients will probably need help getting up and running, and it might take donations of time (not necesarily any money) on the part of tech-savvy individuals to walk someone through the basic setup that most of never have to think about, the preparation that is normally already done for machines ~ used ones as well as new ~ that have been purchased through any of the usual channels.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 01:10 PM

To answer the tech questions, you will have to go to walmart, buy a copy of windows xp or vista , put in the cd and install the operating system. I can get the people who need them a very very good machine that works to help them out for free. What I can't afford is to buy multiple copies of windows and install it for them. That will need to be done by the new owner. I can only do as much as I can to help. At least someone getting a machine that will be good and reliable without having to pay for the hardware. The software I cannot furnish. If I had the money I certainly would but I don't.

Thanks
Dan

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 12:42 PM

If you're poor but geeky, so you can't afford to give a computer yourself but you can do the asking for a friend and help them set it up, then you're set. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: PoppaGator
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 11:50 AM

I'm afraid that people who REALLY need a computer are currently unable to access this message. I suppose it's up to us who HAVE computers and are here to ask on behalf of others.

Also, my immediate reaction when reading that the hard-drives will be completely erased was ~ what about the operating system? Then I saw the answer(s) above. Linux might be the best idea, and XP rather than Vista is pretty obviously the next-best option.

However, the recipients are likely to be not only needy, but also relatively inexperienced/unsophisticated as users. They might need a bit of hand-holding to install any operating system, plus a little more instruction for working in a new/unfamiliar environment like Linux.

Great idea, certainly, and one which should provide some very "Happy Holidays" to a bunch of good folks! Hats off to you, Dan.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 11:34 AM

We donated our old desk top and will do the same with the nearly knackered laptop to charity that strips the data, and uses them to teach people with mental disability to build and repair PCs.

When we retire we want to start a chartity that puts donated PCs and training into homes of elederly and house bound disabled. That is sometime down the road though.

Good man the Dan.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 09:37 AM

I had a great response and it warms my heart to help other in any way I can. I have a very limited number of laptops. I had a few people write where the need is so clear, that is a disabled family member, a disabled child where the laptop would be of great service. I will try to help them first since the need is so great. Someone who has a difficult time using a desktop because they are disabled a laptop can help them so much. I will get back to everyone that PM'd me. Today I will tromp over and see if I can beg a few more. The company has been a blessing to me over the years and have helped a number of folks that otherwise would not be able to have a decent machine. I will be back at ya

God Bless
Dan

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Jeri
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 08:55 AM

Bad manners: Dan, this is a wonderful thing you do for a few Mudcatters. They'll benefit by getting a good computer, but all of us can feel good about your giving. Thank you.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Jeri
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 08:43 AM

'If you don't have money and your machine is whipped...]'

I suspect most of the people who would ask for one may not be so needy or so unable to buy their own, but I trust Dan to tell 'need' from the 'want' or 'could use'.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: glueman
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 08:11 AM

A splendid gesture. I hope only the needy ask for one, and those in need don't think twice about asking.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: treewind
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 08:08 AM

what is needed to get the laptops operational?
I'm tempted to say a Linux install CD but if you want Windows you buy a Windows install CD (hurry and get XP while you still can, or you'll be sentenced to Vista which might be slow on a 4 year old PC)

Anahata

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: GUEST,Bob L
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 07:36 AM

Tech question. If the drive is erased (very likely the data would have been confidential and the software run under a corporate license), what is needed to get the laptops operational?

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: GUEST,Fred McCormick (cookieless)
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 07:30 AM

Small charities often find themselves depending on outdated heaps because they haven't got the money to upgrade. Donations to any of them would I'm sure be well received.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 06:25 AM

What would be the approx cost of sending one (a laptop, as a desktop would not be worth the effort, and desktops are readily available here for a few hundred, but laptops are a different matter) to Australia? Surface, as air would be double that at least... I would put Linux on it, if that is a guide to whether the HW is adequate.

Robin

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: semi-submersible
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 06:16 AM

Seems like the karma around the Mudcat Cafe gets sweeter by the day!

Everywhere I've been, there are a lot of nice people around, but here is special. Good evokes good. Nastiness damps out (unless we feed it). Thanks for the sharing, olddude.

(If you haven't seen it, Freecycle.org is a free network for givers and seekers of neighbourhood stuff that might otherwise be thrown away.)

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: GUEST,Betsy at Work
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 05:45 AM

Hi Old Dude ,
I hope some deserving individuals benefit from your most thoughtful and generous actions.
Very ,very,Well done.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 05:08 AM

I know a Mudcatter who desperately needs a new computer. Unfortunately she's addicted to MAC's.
I told her, 'Look what it's done to Amos', but still she prefers them!

JM

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: My guru always said
Date: 21 Nov 08 - 04:53 AM

What a lovely thing to do, you have a good spirit! Like others I'm OK & not in need, but it's good to know that there are good folks around here!

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 10:42 PM

I have just the friend I think you have in mind. I'll send a PM. This a very generous thing you do, but it is exactly what my friend needs.

SRS

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 10:16 PM

Hi Dan/olddude: This is what this old world needs more of...generosity...

I'm a Mac user, but a laptop/MacBook would be nice. Are you in North America? And please inform as to the costs for shipping if possible. Not a member yet, but I hang around here a lot...LOL

Thanks again for this kind gesture, as I am certain it will be greatly appreciated by all...
bob

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 09:51 PM

Oh Spaw
you guys give back far more. I see people here all the time helping one another, in this life, that is all that counts my friend. I see you stick up for those who cannot stick up for themselves. Make people laugh for days when they are down. Confort those who are sick or suffered a loss. See you and other encourage people with their art, writing, music. You folks and you Spaw make this the place that it is. I am the one honored to call you my friend

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: catspaw49
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 09:44 PM

Bull.....There are thanks needed Dan. Its a wonderful thing to do and I hope the folks who are in need will take you up on it. One of the best thing about the 'Cat is that spirit of community and sharing and you've already shown much of that in the months you've been here. You'd have loved it back in the day and I think we're going back to those days again. Thanks for joining us and rejuvenating some sagging spirits........mine included.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:56 PM

Kat PM me or have them PM me
I will make sure they are taken care of

no thank needed folks, in these troubled times we have to take care of each other.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: katlaughing
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:53 PM

That is very, very kind of you, Dan. We're fine here, but I can think of a Mudcatter or two who might benefit. I hope they will come in here.

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Rowan
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:49 PM

What a pleasant message to see just before the weekend.

I can afford one, already have one and don't need any extras. And I'm on the other side of the Pacific, where I try to do the same sort of good turn to various charitable entities when my employer is disposing of computers.

All power to your elbow!

Cheers, Rowan

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Bill D
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:47 PM

maybe....

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Sorcha
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:30 PM

I do, and am in the US...but I can actually afford one when I am forced to do it. Not looking fwd to it at all...but THANKS!

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:02 PM

Good man - I don't and I am in the UK - but good man!

Subject: RE: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: bobad
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:00 PM

That is very generous of you Dan, I'm sure you will make some people very happy.

Subject: Tech: Do you need a Computer?
From: olddude
Date: 20 Nov 08 - 06:56 PM

Ok, a big corporation that I do business with retires their PC's about every 3 years. Top of the line Dell Desk tops and a few notebooks. Each time they allow me to have a few for people who don't have money, have a kid going off to college and need a PC or just to help someone out. They do this as a gift to me. I in turn give them a certified letter that the data is destroyed. If you don't have money and your machine is whipped I can help you,   I only have a few but that is why I get them. They are 4 year old top notch dell desktops and I have a couple of notebooks same year. All are better that what 90% of normal household have. They will not have windows loaded since I need to secure shred the hard drives but if you are hurting and need a very good home computer drop me a PM line and I will see what I can do for you. Just pay for the shipping. This is for mudcat members only.

Dan