Babbage Engine Works

After having moved at the beginning of 2006, I realized that several decades of having the "computer hobby" had really loaded up my junk boxes with equipment. I sorted and then choked on the idea of simply putting things that still worked out for the trash pickup.

Thus was born Babbage Engine Works, where I try to get my surplus equipment into the hands of those who might otherwise be technically disenfranchised. In short, I build cheap-ass sytems and get them into the hands of poorer people. This has become so satisfying, I collect "dead" computers from the side of road the night before bulk pickup days, and refurbish them, and again sell them "real cheap".

I'd give them away except for two reasons: I put some purchased equipment into these boxes, and I want that expense covered, along with the expenses at the local flea market, and I have found that people take better care of things they pay for than they do of things given to them. Thus, the fees.

You might also notice that the operating system on these machines are various versions of linux, not MicroSoft Windows. This is because Linux may be had for free, while a legitimate copy of Windows XP or Vista could easily double the price of the equipment. In addition, Linux is FAR easier to add additional language support. I may not be able to speak spanish, but any of these machines can (or many other languages!).

Additionally, Linux (at least the distributions I use) come WITH the popular applications - browser, office tools, databases, etc. You get a complete system, without having to shell out for additional packages, as you would with a certain Software Company from Seattle.

If you have your heart set on Windows and are okay with buying a Certificate of Authority (the proof of a legitimate copy of that OS), I'll install it for you. You'll pay an additional charge for that software, the best price I can find. I do not pirate copies of Windows.

So, you want a computer? Visit me at a venue, or make an appointment! Shipping, unfortunately, is very expensive, relative to the price of these machines. I also consider swaps! What do you have that is interesting? My Online Interests List.

I irregularly attend the local flea market, Sundays through October:

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You should let me know if you're going so I can make arrangements for attending, too. It's 30 seconds walk from one of the best coffeehouses in the area...

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