October 1, 2021

During the last two weeks, I did not write as usual in read.cash. I took a break without meaning to.

Some call it; writer's block, something like a drought of ideas. Well, maybe there is something to that, but actually, I was entertained exploring and learning some Linux distributions for my backup computer.

Usually, I write on my old MacBook Air, mid-2011. A formidable machine that already shows worrying signs. I have rarely turned it off since 2018. So, I attest that these computers are more than reliable.

The only component to replace it was the battery. Although, now, the new one already has a fault. It's probably because it's generic. The saying, cheap is expensive, is fatally true.

A month ago, I published an article about buying a laptop, at that time, I expected the delivery of a Lenovo Thinkpad 11e Yoga with a 6th generation Intel i3 processor for a price of $ 250, but at the last minute, there was a change to a Lenovo Thinkpad S1 Yoga with a processor i5 fourth generation and the outlay of $ 100 more.

The reason for the change? The Lenovo Thinkpad 11e Yoga is not a class A reconditioned PC. So my daughter paid for the difference through PayPal and now enjoys a robust and reliable PC.

When I see her working with the computing wonder, I feel that every BCH saved with determination is well invested.

Source: The photo was taken by me. My daughter working with her Thinkpad Yoga

The following week I also acquired a tiny computer from the same brand, also refurbished for $ 139. A Lenovo Thinkpad M72e Tiny with a third-generation i3 processor from the year 2012.

My son likes online video games, and although, these high-quality computers designed for corporate environments do not have dedicated graphics cards; It seemed like a good idea to me that he will use it for the first time.

The objective, to detect any potential failure.

In the tests, he detected with two different programs that the hard disk was at imminent risk. So, we turn to the six-month warranty provided by the store. The hard drive was replaced by another, of course, also used but in optimal condition.

An aspect that I recommend when buying reconditioning equipment, if possible, is that it is the manufacturer that offers the equipment.

My first experience with the Thinkpad line was in 2000 when I bought a computer reconditioned by IBM itself in its subsidiary in the capital of my country. A fantastic experience, quality used equipment again at a reasonable price.

The idea of ​​reviving the computer crossed my mind. As a hobby, excellent, but after more than twenty years, I think it is not worth it.

At this point, someone may ask me, why don't you avoid problems and buy some new low-end equipment?

Without a doubt, he would be very right, if the useful life of them is projected. It would be good to invest in a good computer that is competent for at least the next five years.

It makes a lot of logic.

However, something that I learned with growth is that, no matter how fast and powerful, a computer adapts to your real needs. Let me explain, you can buy the new MacBook Air M1 for $ 999 just to surf the internet and watch videos on Youtube. Perhaps by paying a quarter of this price, you could get a Chromebook to enjoy the same.

Ultimately, needs and expectations will define what you need to achieve your goals. If you only want entertainment, I advise you to buy a device at a reasonable price that gives you an excellent experience without bankruptcy. LOL.

In my case, I want to make the most of the available equipment. I would like to repair my MacBook Air. In this sense, the logic card will probably have to be replaced by a new one but with a more powerful processor, the second-generation i7 Sandy Bridge.

Source: Image by Alexandr Borecký on Pixabay 

Of course, the cost-benefit ratio will determine if I execute the project. As well as by the demands of the objectives that I have in mind.

Regarding the backup equipment, I am still undecided between the two candidates. Refurbish the reliable laptop of more than ten years such as the Lenovo Thinkpad Edge 13 with a dead battery and damaged wireless, or use the recently acquired reconditioned equipment, the ThinkCentre M72e Tiny, for good.

The first candidate works with renewed verve with both Manjaro and MX Linux. The applications are as competent as those with Windows 10 or the latest version of MAC OS.

The second candidate forces me to a fixed environment to work on my articles. Well, the laptop has been sitting still on the workbench for a long time.

Final thoughts

I was always stubbornly careful about the things I bought. But I must admit that no matter how much one takes extreme care, the use will end up spoiling them.

That applies not only to computers but also to any household appliances or belongings that you own. Sure, common sense tells you that if you can repair it, do it.

It is a pity that the desire to maintain a constant demand for goods and services, the useful life cycles of things are shortened to give prominence to new objects that do not offer you much more than an ephemeral novelty.

A somewhat irrational economic policy that threatens the environment and against oneself. Sure, innovation is welcome and new products are welcome, but it would also be very convenient to keep what is still working as long as possible.

This is one of the reasons why I try to give Linux new life to relatively outdated computers. I'm very surprised at how well they work.

An original article by @Jnavedan

Cover image by Tayyab Khan on Pixabay