Google Project 10^100 $20 Computers

What happens to Americas old technology? Discarded, wasted, trashed? Unfortunately the answer is yes too often.

There is a better way. Most people and businesses would rather not throw out old computers, but the bother of doing something productive with them isn't worth it. Instead, let's centralize old computers in a warehouse, clean and refit the usable ones, create desktop icons for Google Docs and load other useful applications, print instructions for use in recipients' native language and distribute to the worthiest applicants.

This program will help address the lack of computers that hampers development in many parts of the world. Three quick examples:

- Three days prior to this writing, on September 22, 2008, the education of 42 students in Namibia was placed on hold due to a lack of computers http://tinyurl.com/4ymev9.
- On September 3, 2008, it was reported in Sierra Leone that computers would help court proceedings in that country http://tinyurl.com/3e6s7f.
- There's even a need right here in the USA. A university's need was publicized on 9/26 http://tinyurl.com/4v8osa.

Undoubtedly, there will be applications for $20 computers from all over the world. Since we expect more demand than supply, we can choose recipients based on preset criteria. Poverty stricken areas would be given top priority. Perhaps we can partner with a micro-credit organization such as Philippine-based Tapulanga Foundation or Bangladesh's Grameen Bank to make it even easier for the worlds poor to afford a computer.

We shouldn't underestimate fulfilling the donor need as well. Donors will feel better that their computers are being used. Potential tax advantages will be the icing on the cake.

In short, please help attract attention for this idea by ranking and reviewing this idea.

T.J.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• Google
• Project
• 10^100
• nonprofit
• Project 10 to the 100

[cybermage83]

why would anyone replace their laptop if they just got a virus??

[tjmaryland]

My experience is that this thought is typical: "Old laptop, slow performance? Oh it's time for a new one anyway ..." It doesn't make it right, but a lot of people manage their computing technology this way.

[yumagetbullet]

idea is great , but do u think - maybe people in pure countries do not have electricity !? and that the point of computers ? internet? but internet cost +++ so without internet? nothing to do so.. dunno . but i dont like yours idea. my opinion. good luck! :P

[tjmaryland]

Thanks for the comment - Good points! I've already thought about these. Back in 1983, I traveled extensively through India, even spending one month in a town with electricity for only 6 hours a day. But that was 25 years ago. Progress has happened. You bring up a good point about Internet cost, but that's where microlending can play a valuable role - it's mentioned in my Google 10^100 proposal. Thanks and best wishes!

[abawi]

who pays for the cost of the pc to be shipped to the one location?? also who pays for the PC to be shipped to ayers rock (centre of outback australia)?? what would stop retailers or middle men from buying in bulk and selling it themselves???

[JFshallows]

haha......

[sourcerror]

Not a new idea. Such projects are already running.

[Joleenathomas]

I love your idea and I love your enthusiasm even more!

[jonathanrbarry]

Nice idea...I know that I have at least two comps sitting around at my parent's house that are not being used. It's sad really how much stuff we waste. Check out my 10^100 idea. jrb

[lgdopg]

o que vc ganha se seu projeto for aprovado?

[kikitoso]

nice idea

[LBCpearljam]

great idea!!