Donate
From ITShare SA Inc
Contents |
Donate hardware
What Happens To Hardware
Computers are dropped off to one of our projects, or we arrange a pick-up with you. After we have them, the hard drives are wiped using Darik's Boot and Nuke (DBAN), which writes random patterns over the entire drive multiple times. If needed we can use a wipe which complies to the US Dept. of Defense standard for data destruction.
The age of a system is its next deciding factor. We refurbish systems with Pentium 4 (equivalent) or greater processors, replacing any faulty or missing parts, and install an open source operating system on it. Currently we use Ubuntu ( a variant of Debian GNU/Linux ). We then extend the system with suitable packages for their target - such as young children, for uni students, for older people, etc. The systems are then tested and someone from our waiting list is called to come and pick it up. The recipient is trained on the new computer system and offered 3 months free support - including hardware - while they are still running Ubuntu. If they are under Pentium 4 (equivalent) they are usually taken apart and used for parts. Any materials that are not used in systems, are recycled through metal and plastic recycling networks. What is good hardware to donate?
A 1.6 GHz Pentium 4 (or equivalent) with 512MB of RAM is the minimum specification for a computer that is usable for our recipients. We can pick up some hardware (if the amount of good equipment makes the trip feasible), but would like older, non-working or small donations of equipment to be brought to us.
Most wanted hardware currently is: 40 Gigabytes or larger hard disks. 256 Megabytes or greater Sticks of SD, DDR or DDR2 RAM DVD drives
Donate time
At a loose end for a week? Want to get out and play with computers? ITShare is always after new volunteers. The list of ways to contribute is extensive. From picking up computers, to helping strip old systems, to installing software for people to use, even spend some time helping cook a BBQ.
There is no requirement to know about computing before coming to help. you will be taught by ITShare volunteers as part of your time with us.
If you want to come along, email itshare@itshare.org.au to express your interest, or call the project at Bridgewater 9-4 Monday or Tuesday.
We are largely a volunteer organisation so do feel free to come to Install fests and join in the process of building and installing. Extra hands help! Passing on the word to potential hardware donors is also a way of keeping things ticking over. Some ways to volunteer
Volunteers are able to help by
Pick up and sort hardware Breaking down obsolete equipment Rebuilding computers Install GNU/Linux and Desktop applications Provide Training to recipients Provide Training for other Volunteers Help to organise fundraiser events Dispatching materials for recycling Cleaning the workspaces
How do I volunteer
Download and read the ITShare information pack for volunteers, members, staff, and work for the dole participants, and look at the resources page for more info.
Volunteer Charter
ITShare aims to provide people with opportunities to:
Be involved in contributing to the well-being and opportunities of disadvantaged communities and individuals; Enhance existing skills and knowledge; Explore work and career options Build skills, confidence and experience Participate in building ITShare Be actively involved in the community.
Donate website space
Although this has never been listed as a way to contribute to ITShare before, I thought it was worth making possible. After all, you may not be able to contribute directly because of distance or other means. If you are interested in linking to ITShares website, perhaps use the logo we use for this site with your link.
Other ways of promoting ITShare could be bookmarking our website on your favourite bookmarking site, using word of mouth, and many other options.
Contact us
Feeling inspired? get in touch! head over to the contact us page for more details.
