Old Computers

Old Computers

Handling old computers

When computers get old, IT tries to squeeze as much life as possible out of the equipment to make the most of UW Bothell's resources. The fate of the old computers varies, but includes:

Repurposing

See our Repurposing Used Computers services for details.

Storage for Backup and Parts

IT tries to maintain number of backup computers corresponding to models that are currently in service to provide parts, backup systems, and testing platforms. We try to maintain a backup inventory of around 20% of the computers available for each round of repurposing.

Surplus

IT maintains a list of supported hardware that is based on the age of the computer, its ability to run our current software load, and our understanding of the likelihood of its failure. If we've determined that the computer is just too old to support, we will send it to surplus after exploring replacement options with the user.