BCCHardware Shootout 2007

Many people put a lot of stress on which components run faster, better and quieter.  Hardware review sites keep on pushing companies to do bigger and better so that they can earn Editors Choice honors, Top Hardware, etc.  Today we are taking a break from the normal testing methods and putting some older hardware to the test.  This hardware has been resurrected from garages, basements and even from a landfill.  We wanted to give you a different perspective when it comes to a computer hardware shootout.

All of the hardware and system "tested" were somewhat defective - whether through leaky capacitors, damaged CPU cores or flaky RAM - none of the systems were stable, but all of them booted into Windows.  We managed to find some CRT monitors that worked, but were very dim and practically unusable. 

Hansol 17" CRT

Before we go any farther, we really should post a disclaimer:

None of these tests are recommended for the average user.  Under no circumstances should these be performed indoors or at a small park where children are playing.  It is imperitive that testing tools and equipment be handled with care at all times.  Please don't try this yourself - BCCHardware accepts no responisbilty for injury suffered from trying to duplicate our tests in a controlled or uncontrolled environment.

You can download and save the high quality version of this video right here.

As mentioned, all items were in working order as we began.  In the picture below, Fujitsu jumpstarts his Pentium system.

 
Got it running!

At this point you might as well watch a video of the rest of the "Hardware Shootout Tests" before you carry on.

Below are some pictures of the casualties.

Acer CRT - "Inked"

CMOS Battery

Recycling

After we did cleanup, all the parts were taken to be properly recycled.  We got a few interesting looks, but no one made any comments.  I'd like to thank Fujitsu, Alex, Nicao, Christy and Xena for helping out.  We finished off with a nice BBQ and had a fun time playing some Wii Sports.  Next year, we are hoping for bigger and better. . .