Closing the Digital Divide: Getting Cheap and Free Computers
by Jaymi Heimbuch, San Francisco, California 
on 10.15.08
Photo via Lizzardo
One of the major issues behind the digital divide is the expense of obtaining a computer. They cost a pretty penny and when you’re on a tight budget, it can feel impossible to bring home the latest in computer gear.
Thankfully, there is a way to get affordable computers to people who need them and improve our impact on the environment at the same time.
Many computers have exceptionally long lifetimes for basic use, so distributing refurbished used computers is a great way to spread technology to people who wouldn't otherwise have access. Plus, keeping computers in the loop for as long as possible reduces their impact on the environment - getting a used computer is far greener than getting a new one.
Here are a collection of ideas for getting your hands on free computers, cheap computers, and inexpensive used computers.
Getting Free Computers
Across the US and world there are non-profit organizations like Free Home Computer and Smart Riverside that help get free computers into the hands of people who need them. They’re called digital inclusion programs and in places like San Francisco, they’re gaining ground. For most of these programs, if you meet the qualifications they set, you can get a free computer. Even if you don’t quite meet the criteria, they usually have computer labs open for people to use.
Getting Great Used Computers
Going through a used computer seller is a good way to find an affordable computer. UsedComputer is a nice place to start, or check out a local computer repair shop, which often will have inexpensive used computers for sale.
Also, computer manufacturers have refurbished computers that are a fraction of the cost of a new computer, but are of the same quality.
Finding Cheap New Computers
New computers and notebooks keep getting cheaper as well, especially Linux-based systems. Check out the ASUS Eee PC, or subnotebooks that are super cheap, portable computers.
Free Computer Help
Finding help to keep your computer running smoothly can also be costly, but there are free programs available. Computer Hope and Free Geek are two awesome resources for people who don’t have money to spare for computer repairs and assistance.
More on Blog Action Day 2008:
Closing the Digital Divide: 5 Ways to Get Free Internet Access
Fuel Poverty in UK, Government Faces Court Action VIDEO
Four Argentinean Design Projects Helping those in Need
British PM Putting Unemployed To Work Insulating Attics
Five Poverty-Fighting Clean Water Projects and Designs
Apple Day at Roots and Shoots
Follow @TreeHugger on Twitter & get our headlines with @TH_rss!
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- Meet Green Business Consultant Tyler Moorehead, of GreenUnlimited
I would also like to point out a project funded by the California Emerging Technology Fund and TechSoup Global:
http://www.techsoup.org/go/cheapcomputers
Among other things, it is a portal for low-income families who need to acquire computers inexpensively throughout California, and tips to use them effectively.
(Disclosure: I am an employee of TechSoup Global)
These are some good tips that many will be considering with the trend of frugality on the rise.
I've used only 'end-of-use' computers for over 5 years now and I think the most important thing is to switch to GNU/Linux and Free Open Source Software. This will effectively double the lifespan of a PC and the whole thing generally runs a lot smoother than Vista :-)
Those who have yet to try Linux can run both Operating Systems on the same machine - Ubuntu is the easiest system to use for people used to Windows - try it today!
http://www.puppylinux.org/ is a great way to keep older computers working effectively... you'll be amazed how quickly an old computer will run on Puppy Linux...
I would also could recommend more sites for buying recycled computers, most of them you will find them on our company's site: http://www.ittradeonline.com. We are a B2B marketplace for recyclying used laptops and computers.
check out www.dellgx270.com for more better performance variety of Dell operating systems....
Do check it out I really liked it !