The $100 Computer Lab

The $100 Computer Lab Edubuntu for Libraries Jim Mann Technology Coordinator GCPL [email_address]

Setting the Record Straight
I’m an Open Source Evangelist not a “guru”
GCPL has not implemented an Edubuntu solution
We have only just begun to work with Goodwill/Easter Seals TRC to change the recycling paradigm in the Miami Valley to repurpose donated computers with an Open Source solution

Three Goals
Offer an “aaah” moment
Use “repurpose” in a sentence
Deal with the F.U.D. factor

The $100 Lab Project
It all began with an article on the Internet
How could GCPL repurpose our Gates-granted equipment and some 100 seven-year-old OPACS
You think you got problems…what is being donated to Goodwill vs. ODOE grant requirements

A Simple Plan
Evaluate consumer needs i.e. a browser, word processor, educational software, multi-media capability
Use an Open Source solution to match these needs with computer equipment available i.e. Pentium III
The solution Edubuntu

What Equipment we Used
Edubuntu Distro
Classroom server
Classroom server add-ons
Workstation (PC & Mac)
Gates computer for server
2 NICs
500mb RAM
80-gig hard drive
Dell Optiplex GX 110 as workstations
No hard drive
3-com PXE NICs
17” Gates monitors
Misc keyboards, mice, cat-5 cable
D-Link 10/100 ethernet switch

What it Would Have Cost
3-com NICs x@ $10
D-Link switch $39
80gig + hard drive $50
Having a big junk pile Priceless

Useful Resources
Edubuntu.org
Learning Electric
Jim’s YouTube
Technorati/edubuntu
Google/ edubuntu and schools

F.U.D. No one ever got fired for choosing Microsoft
Fear Uncertainty Doubt
I’m afraid I can’t do it
There is a new learning curve
What if the things we need don’t work?
Not everything will work
Some things may be different
Open Office vs. Microsoft Office
What if our patrons (staff) are confused?
What if it works too well?

What You Can Do
Play with the “Live CD”
Talk with:
United Way and other agencies
Goodwill
Private schools
Look for a use in your library

The $100 Computer Lab

by guestbc7e13 on Aug 29, 2007

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The $100 Computer Lab — Presentation Transcript