Stay Green, Reuse Old-Ass Laptops

If you're lucky, grab an old IBM Thinkpad. They're relatively light if you get one after 2005, especially the T42's and up. Not to hate on HP, Compaq, Sony, or Gateways, but they're pretty much worthless machines if you try to salvage them. Anyway, if you've got a Thinkpad, follow these easy steps to make it running smooth for a few more years.

1. Upgrade it to 1GB minimum.
2. Grab a Windows XP CD, fire up reformat wizard.
   
3. Delete all partitions, then install.
   
4. On another computer, load wireless drivers or wired drivers (depending on your model) on a USB drive.
5. Also load this program: ThinkVantage System Update.
6. On clean system, install internet drivers.
7. Install ThinkVantage System Update.
8. Make sure: Check the internet for latest updates is checked. Install updates.
9. Don't install any IBM applications except for Access Connections and the Battery Maximiser program. Especially avoid R&R, I hear it is useless.
10. Enjoy your new internet browser rig.