New Life For Old PCs and Phones
How to speed up or reuse them
How to speed up or reuse them
Here are some tips for speeding up an old PC or phone:
• Clear out clutter and uninstall unused apps — Go through your app list and remove any apps you no longer use. Also, delete old files, clear browser caches, and remove bloatware that came pre-installed. This frees up storage space and memory.
• Disable visual effects — On a PC, disabling transparency and animations in the system settings can save resources for other tasks. On Android, switch animation scales to 0.5x or off.
• Add more RAM — Increasing RAM allows the device to run more processes efficiently. On a PC you can add more RAM sticks, on a phone you may be able to free up RAM by clearing app caches.
• Factory reset — Wiping the device and reinstalling the OS clears out all accumulated junk and restores it to original settings. Back up data first.
• Replace the hard drive — On PCs, switching from a mechanical hard drive to an SSD significantly speeds up boot times and app launches.
• Overclock the CPU — On PCs, cautiously overclocking the CPU can increase performance if your system has thermal headroom. Not recommended for laptops.
• Disable startup programs — Prevent apps and programs from launching at boot to increase boot speed. Only keep essentials like security software enabled.
• Update software and drivers — Make sure your OS, firmware, and drivers are all up to date to fix bugs and optimize performance. Keep apps updated too.
• Lower screen resolution — Less pixels means less GPU work. On a PC try 1280x720, on phone switch from WQHD to 1080p.
• Close background tasks — Freeze or force stop apps you aren’t using so they’re not taking up resources.
How to Reuse an Old PC or Phone
For Old Computers:
1. Upgrade It:
◦ Research compatible hardware upgrades for your old PC, such as additional RAM or a larger hard drive.
◦ Follow online tutorials or manufacturer guides to safely open your computer and install the new components.
◦ Ensure you have the necessary tools and anti-static precautions to prevent damage during the upgrade process.
2. Use it as a Home File Server:
◦ Install a lightweight operating system suitable for file sharing, such as FreeNAS or OpenMediaVault.
◦ Configure network sharing settings to allow access to files from other devices on your home network.
◦ Organize your files and set up user permissions for secure access control.
3. Play Retro Games:
◦ Install retro gaming emulators like RetroArch or DOSBox on your old PC.
◦ Download ROMs of classic games you want to play and configure the emulator settings for optimal performance.
◦ Connect compatible controllers or input devices for an authentic gaming experience.
4. Create a Wi-Fi Hotspot:
◦ Install virtual router software like Connectify or MyPublicWiFi on your old PC.
◦ Configure the hotspot settings, including network name (SSID) and password, to secure your wireless connection.
◦ Share your internet connection from the old PC to other devices within range.
5. Contribute CPU Cycles:
◦ Join distributed-computing projects like Folding@Home or BOINC by downloading their software.
◦ Select the research projects you want to support and configure the software to run calculations using your old PC’s processing power.
◦ Monitor your contribution and see how your computing power is helping scientific research.
For Old Laptops:
1. Use it as an Additional Monitor:
◦ Download software like SpaceDesk or Duet Display on both your old laptop and primary device.
◦ Connect the two devices using a USB cable or over Wi-Fi, depending on the software requirements.
◦ Configure display settings on both devices to extend or mirror your screen as needed.
2. Convert it into a Game Server:
◦ Install server software like Minecraft Server or SteamCMD on your old laptop.
◦ Set up port forwarding on your router to allow external connections to the game server.
◦ Invite friends or family to join your game server and enjoy multiplayer gaming sessions.
3. Back Up Your Files:
◦ Transfer important files from your current device to the old laptop using a USB drive or cloud storage service.
◦ Organize files into folders and create regular backup schedules using built-in backup tools or third-party software.
◦ Keep the old laptop connected to power and ensure it has sufficient storage space for backups.
Repurposing old devices requires some technical knowledge and effort, but it can be a rewarding way to extend their usefulness and contribute positively to various activities.
