Recycled PC Retrieved from Trash and Restored - Dumped Computer Capable of Running Linux and Light Games
A Redditor has given a new lease of life to an old gaming PC, transforming it into an IoT device running Windows 11 IoT Enterprise. The PC, originally equipped with an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, an AMD Radeon R9 380 graphics card, and 8GB of RAM, was upgraded with a new SSD and a more powerful GPU, an AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT.
Despite the upgrade, this gaming PC is no longer suitable for running the latest AAA games. However, it now finds itself in a unique position, as the Windows 11 IoT Enterprise edition installed on it is designed for embedded systems and IoT devices. This version of Windows is more flexible than the consumer editions, allowing it to run on older hardware with relaxed TPM/Secure Boot rules.
The use case for this setup is generally specialized or industrial environments rather than mainstream gaming or consumer desktop usage. Windows 11 IoT Enterprise offers flexibility for older or atypical hardware, catering to environments like kiosks, digital signage, industrial control systems, or specialized business devices.
While the gaming performance is not targeted or optimized for this setup, the system can handle some older titles and casual gaming. It's important to note that this version of Windows does not inherently provide gaming performance or gaming-focused updates, and it lacks some consumer UI features and security model requirements.
The PC, now mounted on a Gigabyte GA-H100M-A motherboard and powered by a Seasonic SS-520GB 520W power supply, boots up to Windows 11 IoT Enterprise, installed in July of the previous year. The Redditor has also replaced the CPU fan to ensure the system's longevity.
This transformation of the gaming PC into an IoT device opens up a potential 10 more years of life as a Linux gaming machine in a living room. Alternatively, if the user prefers, Linux can be installed to avoid Windows' shenanigans.
It's unclear why the former owner discarded the PC, but it was likely due to an upgrade to a newer system. The Redditor found the PC in a dumpster, cleaned, repaired, and updated it, giving it a new purpose in the world of IoT devices.
In summary, while this gaming PC may no longer be suitable for running the latest games, its transformation into an IoT device provides a unique and interesting use case. The Windows 11 IoT Enterprise edition installed on it offers flexibility for older hardware, catering to specialized, non-gaming embedded applications.
