Old, used computers?
 

Any idea on where I could find some old comps to hack up and take apart, just to know more about the things?
I know people give em to churches and stuff, but what about those really old POS's that no one wants?

Ive heard wonderful things about this place that they call the dump, which I imagine is a paradise full of used computers, however picking through trash for some old P2 machines isnt really in my plans.

Anyways, any input is extremely appreciated

Old P2 machines are still completely viable, working machines. Those are the kinds of things people give to churches. Heck, my webserver runs on a p2 400 and even that is overpowered. You may have better luck looking for some original p1s, maybe even 486s. Basic hardware layout hasnt changed that much.

I've tried to look for these before but its a lot harder then one may think. A lot of large computer companies now offer money for old computers for all the valuables it contains. This makes people get rid of those old computers quickly. You could always just keep a closet of your old computers for future work. Thats what I've resorted to

Nothing better then learning from experimenting on guinea pigs

You can pick these things up for really really cheap on ebay.

I see lots of them in the flea markets down here along the border. My buddy picked up a decent one for $15 the other day. ---but you get what you pay for----we just wanted a couple of pieces out of it....

Also, check with the schools....they get new ones all the time...Viejo

If you've got a well funded college anywhere nearby, they just might have a surplus warehouse. At my school the surplus warehouse has a monthly auction where you can go and pick up pre-priced old computers, monitors, etc. They've also got bins and bins of componants such as cd drives, mice, keyboards, etc. for really cheap.

and try <a href="http://www.craigslist.org/sys/">craigslist's computers section</a>, <a href="http://www.craigslist.org/zip/"> or the free section.</a>

Yeah, check your area for local auctions. I go to the Louisiana State Surplus Auction every month, and they always have a least 50-100 pallets of computer stuff. Pallets with old stuff go for anywhere from $10-$50.

Check with any local universities or colleges.. The University near me has so many old computers they do a sale every other weekend. You can usually pick up equipment at really good prices because they are just looking to get rid of the old assets