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Week 11: Upcycling
10.5.24
This week, we pitched our project ideas and discussed BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) upcycling, specifically installing ChromeOS on Windows laptops.
Installing ChromeOS/Linux
BYOD upcycling is often seen as an excellent way to rejuvenate old laptops that no longer run smoothly. Typically, this involves installing less demanding operating systems like ChromeOS or a version of Linux, which tend to run better on older hardware. I actually experimented with this back in Year 8 or 9, installing ChromeOS on a few old computers, and they worked reasonably well. However, a critical factor for a BYOD device is battery life. These old computers often die after just two hours, which can undermine the purpose of upcycling since they're hardly usable on battery power at school. Moreover, the bulky weight of these laptops can be a drawback, though they are still functional at home for those who don't mind carrying around a hefty laptop and a charger. Another benefit is the cost-effectiveness, as acquiring a new laptop can be expensive and not everyone can afford one.
Despite these drawbacks, the environmental benefit is significant. Upcycling helps prevent old laptops from ending up in landfills, which is not only a waste of resources but also harmful to the environment. I firmly believe that even the oldest laptops can still be useful for something. This belief is supported by a study indicating the benefits of repurposing electronic waste.
Use as a Server
Another possibility for repurposing old laptops is transforming them into servers. There are open-source operating systems that function similarly to a Network Attached Storage (NAS) system. For example, TrueNAS is an impressive software that can convert any computer into a server. Servers typically require less CPU and memory compared to standalone desktops, making it more feasible for older computers to run them efficiently.
Once set up, these servers can perform a variety of useful tasks such as storing files centrally, hosting a Minecraft server for gaming, or running a web server to manage and deliver websites. This versatility can extend the useful life of older hardware while providing valuable services.
Hackingtosh
This option is less about practicality and more for those who dream of using macOS but can't afford a Mac computer (like me). Technically, it is possible to install macOS on "Windows" computers that run on Intel chips with integrated graphics or AMD graphics (it won't work with Nvidia since Apple does not support Nvidia). After installation and some tweaking, you can even get features like iMessage and FaceTime to work! This means that even Android users can finally experience iMessage.
Use it as a Secondary Monitor
Repurposing an old laptop as a second monitor is also a cool way to extend its usability. This setup is particularly useful for those who need extra screen real estate but don't want to invest in a new monitor. By using software solutions like SpaceDesk, one can easily convert their old laptop into a secondary display.
Or...
You can behead (take the screen off) the laptop (given it doesn't even turn on anymore), and buy a specialised LCD controller board, which then allows you to connect the display to a HDMI cable.
Not only does this approach save money, but it also recycles old technology in a practical and environmentally friendly way.
