Why use decade old PC hardware
date: 2019-12-27
I recommend building LGA775-based PCs
When most tech ethusiasts are hyping the latest and greatest products and showing off their "rigs" that cost well over $1000 USD (sometimes multiple thousands of dollars), I am going to recommend that you build or configure a PC on Intel's LGA775 platform with a Core 2 Duo or Core 2 Quad processor.
One of my favorite CPUs right now
The Core 2 Duo E8400 sells for less than $10 on the used market.
Short list of reasons
If you want to have some fun with computers, here's why a LGA775 PC may be better than a Raspberry Pi or Chromebook:
- Availability (easy to find or buy)
- Cost
* CPU upgrades for $25 or less
* Whole systems with accessories for less than a Chromebook
- PC platform with modular components
* upgradeable memory, up to 16GB
* processor sockets
* Standard SATA connectors for storage
* Lots of ports - USB, serial, parallel and more
- Less stress, more fun
- Still useful for current common workloads
Build a project PC
These computers are great for experimenting. Try out Linux on actual hardware. Build a server. Learn something new.
The HP Elite SFF (small form factor) series are excellent choices. This is an HP Elite 8000.
Let me know if you build something with one of these!
tags: #microblog #lga775