Category: Computers

When working with computers, understanding your system’s specifications is vital—whether you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or restoring a legacy machine. From the newest Windows 11 PCs to classic systems like Windows 95, having the right tools can make all the difference. For enthusiasts and professionals like me, tracking builds and cataloging their components is not just a matter of convenience—it’s an essential step in managing, upgrading, and even benchmarking performance.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best system information tools for Windows, discuss their compatibility across various operating systems, and examine how this data is critical for tasks like benchmarking, which can provide valuable insights into your system’s capabilities and limitations.

Modern Tools for System Information

HWiNFO

HWiNFO is one of the most comprehensive tools available. It offers in-depth diagnostics and real-time monitoring for modern systems. If you’re running Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 or 11, this tool is perfect for getting insights into your CPU, GPU, memory, and more.

Strengths

Real-time monitoring, detailed hardware data.

Compatibility

Windows XP and newer.

Speccy

If you prefer a simple, clean interface, Speccy is your go-to option. It provides an overview of your system, including CPU, RAM, storage, and temperatures. It’s ideal for quick system checks.

Strengths

User-friendly, lightweight.

Compatibility

Windows XP and newer.

Belarc Advisor

For those who need both hardware details and software insights, including security updates and license tracking, Belarc Advisor offers a unique blend of features.

Strengths

Security-focused, detailed license reports.

Compatibility

Windows Vista and newer.

CPU-Z

Designed for CPU enthusiasts, CPU-Z offers detailed information about your processor, RAM, and motherboard. It’s particularly useful for overclockers and system builders.

Strengths

In-depth CPU data.

Compatibility

Windows XP and newer.

HWMonitor

HWMonitor specializes in real-time monitoring of voltages, temperatures, and fan speeds. If you’re concerned about system health, this tool is a great choice.

Strengths

Hardware monitoring.

Compatibility

Windows XP and newer.

My Experience with System Information Tools

Over the years, I’ve used several tools to gather system information, and two that stand out are HWiNFO32 and CPU-Z. Both are excellent in their own ways, but I’ve found that HWiNFO32 provides a much more detailed breakdown of hardware components and real-time performance metrics. It goes beyond the basics, offering in-depth insights into the CPU, GPU, motherboard, and even sensors, making it invaluable for troubleshooting and understanding system behavior.

On the other hand, CPU-Z is a simpler tool, focused primarily on detailed CPU specifications and memory data. While it’s great for quick checks, it doesn’t match the depth of HWiNFO32 for overall system diagnostics.

I’ve also tried CPUID Hardware Monitor, but it didn’t quite meet my needs. While it displayed some temperature readings—like the SSD temps—it felt too limited compared to the comprehensive data provided by the other tools. For anyone needing more than just basic thermal monitoring, I’d recommend exploring options like HWiNFO32 instead.

Legacy Tools for Older Systems

If you’re working with vintage systems like Windows 95, 98, ME, or 2000, most modern tools won’t work. Instead, try these alternatives:

Everest Home Edition

An excellent tool for legacy PCs, Everest Home Edition provides detailed system diagnostics and runs on older Windows versions.

• Compatibility: Windows 95, 98, ME, and 2000.

Sandra Lite (Legacy Versions)

Older versions of SiSoftware Sandra support legacy operating systems and offer detailed hardware and software analysis.

• Compatibility: Windows 95, 98, ME, and 2000.

Built-in System Utilities

• Use msinfo32 for general system information.
• Use dxdiag for graphics and sound details.

Using System Information for Benchmarking

Benchmarking your system is the next logical step after gathering detailed hardware and software data. Benchmarking allows you to evaluate your system’s performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize hardware configurations for better efficiency.

Here’s how system information tools contribute to effective benchmarking:

1. Baseline Hardware Analysis:
   Tools like HWiNFO and CPU-Z provide detailed specifications for your CPU, GPU, memory, and storage. These serve as the foundation for benchmarking, ensuring you’re testing the actual hardware without assumptions.
2. Real-Time Monitoring:
   Benchmarking often pushes your hardware to its limits. Monitoring tools like HWMonitor and HWiNFO track metrics such as temperatures, voltages, and clock speeds during stress tests, helping you understand how your system handles high workloads.
3. Performance Comparisons:
   Many benchmarking tools, such as Cinebench and 3DMark, integrate seamlessly with system information data to contextualize results. For instance, CPU-Z’s benchmarking feature lets you compare your CPU’s performance to similar models.
4. Tracking Upgrades Over Time:
   Benchmarking combined with detailed system information creates a performance history for your builds. Whether you’re overclocking or upgrading components, you can measure the impact of changes and ensure optimal performance.

Which Tools Should You Use?

The right tool depends on your operating system and your needs:

• For modern systems: HWiNFO, Speccy, CPU-Z, or HWMonitor.
• For legacy systems: Everest Home Edition or built-in utilities.

By combining tools, you can gain a complete understanding of your system’s capabilities, whether you’re working on a vintage machine or the latest hardware.

Conclusion

Understanding your system’s hardware and software details is essential for any tech enthusiast or professional. Whether you’re diagnosing a Windows XP PC or restoring a classic Windows 98 setup, these system information tools will provide you with the insights you need to manage and optimize your hardware.

For those looking to take things a step further, these tools also play a crucial role in benchmarking—evaluating system performance, identifying bottlenecks, and tracking upgrades over time. Stay tuned for our upcoming guide on how to use system information tools for benchmarking and which benchmarking tools are best for your needs.

Reviving Old Windows XP Machines has been on my mind lately, mostly because I’ve been tinkering with computers since I was a kid. Now that I’m 42 going on 43, I find myself drawn back to the systems that sparked my early interest in tech. Recently, I dusted off two of my old towers—a Dell Dimension 4700 and a Gateway 500SE—hoping to see those familiar Windows XP screens again. Little did I know that trying to bring these classics back to life in 2024 would take me on a trip down memory lane, complete with quirky activation loops, retro troubleshooting, and all the nostalgia that comes with it.

What You’ll Learn in This Post:

• Why embracing the quirks of vintage PCs can be surprisingly rewarding
• How I overcame activation loops on a Dell Dimension 4700
• The phone activation trick that brought a Gateway 500SE back online
• Tips for restoring old XP desktops, including navigating Safe Mode without a mouse

Why Reviving Old Windows XP Machines Matters to Me

I still remember the thrill of booting up a computer in the early 2000s. The spinning hard drive, chunky icons, and that iconic green Start button were more than just visuals—they marked a pivotal moment in personal computing history. Sure, modern PCs are sleek and powerful, but they can’t capture the feeling of rediscovering the OS that guided so many of us into the digital world. Reviving Old Windows XP Machines isn’t just about getting them to run; it’s about reconnecting with the past, savoring the imperfections, and appreciating how far we’ve come.

The Activation Nightmare: Dell Dimension 4700

When I powered on the Dell Dimension 4700, I expected a quick trip back in time. Instead, I got stuck in a bizarre activation loop. Windows XP insisted I needed to activate before logging in, but every attempt to do so led it to declare I was already activated. Round and round I went, stuck in a digital stand-off that never seemed to end. Booting into Safe Mode didn’t help, especially since my mouse refused to work there. I found myself navigating with just a keyboard, tapping through menus like it was the late ‘90s again.

The Gateway 500SE: Phone Activation in 2024

The Gateway 500SE offered a different challenge. This one asked me to activate by phone, providing a toll-free number and an Installation ID. Calling a 1-800 number to activate XP in 2024 felt like time travel, but I followed the prompts, got a text message with a link, and entered the codes as instructed. To my surprise, it worked flawlessly. In just a few minutes, the Gateway was humming along like it was 2005, and I was free to explore all those old programs and memories stored on its hard drive.

Embracing the Nostalgia

So why bother reviving old Windows XP machines when today’s hardware and software are so much better? For me, it’s pure nostalgia. There’s a comfort in hearing that old hard drive spin up, seeing those retro icons, and remembering what computing was like before smartphones and streaming services ruled the world. This process reminded me that computing used to be a bit messier and a lot more hands-on. Troubleshooting was a given, and victory felt sweeter when you actually had to work for it.

Tips for Anyone Trying the Same

If you’ve got an old XP rig collecting dust, here are a few pointers:

• Be Patient: Expect weird hurdles and activation loops that make no sense by modern standards.
• Use Classic Fixes: Don’t be afraid to Google old forum posts or try the file deletion trick I used on the Dell.
• Embrace Keyboard Navigation: Your mouse might bail on you in Safe Mode, so be ready to navigate like it’s 1998.
• Enjoy the Ride: Remember, this is about nostalgia, not practicality. Have fun with it.

Security and Practical Considerations

Keep in mind that Windows XP no longer receives security updates. If you do connect these machines to the internet, you’re taking a risk. Many enthusiasts prefer to keep these restored PCs offline, using them as dedicated retro gaming stations or to run old software in a safe environment.

Final Thoughts

Reviving old Windows XP machines isn’t going to replace your modern setup. It won’t offer blazing speeds or cutting-edge capabilities. What it will give you is a window into the past, a moment to reflect on how personal computing evolved, and maybe a chance to play a few classic games on the hardware they were meant to run on. For me, that’s reason enough to put in the effort, smile at the quirks, and welcome these retro companions back into my tech life.

Tech collection management can be a daunting task as your inventory of spare parts and components grows. In this post, I’ll share strategies for organizing and cataloging my collection effectively.

Each time I dive into computer building, I end up with a pile of spare parts, whether from upgrades or restoration projects. Over the past 4–5 years, I’ve transitioned from upgrading individual components to collecting and building used computers, which has led to a significant accumulation of spare parts and components. Managing and organizing this growing collection has become a challenge, requiring a thoughtful approach to storage and documentation.

To address this, I’ve explored solutions ranging from spreadsheet tracking to inventory software, but I’m now leaning toward using WordPress with WooCommerce to catalog my parts. This allows me to stay organized and even consider selling items to interested buyers. In this post, I’ll share the strategies I’ve developed for storing and tracking components, from hard drives and GPUs to other essential parts, along with tips for documenting inventory effectively.

The Growth of my Tech Collection

My tech collection has grown steadily over time, starting with leftover parts from upgrades. I rarely sell my older components, keeping them for potential future use—just in case I might need them for another build. Recently, my focus has shifted from upgrading to collecting older computers to restore and upgrading their parts as needed. This transition has significantly expanded my inventory and introduced new challenges in managing and organizing it effectively.

Before, during, and after any major tech upgrade, my office space transforms into a chaotic mess. Components and wires spill out onto every surface, with cables dangling off the edges of desks and tables. Building and upgrading computers is the fun part—until it comes time to clean up. The clutter can quickly become overwhelming, and I often find myself putting off the task of organizing for days or even weeks until I finally muster the energy to tackle it.

As my collection grew, it became clear that a casual approach to storage wasn’t going to cut it. Tossing components into random drawers or stacking computers in a corner only added to the confusion and made it harder to find what I needed. This realization pushed me to explore more structured methods for organizing and tracking my inventory, which has been a game-changer for managing my collection.

The Challenges of Managing Inventory

Managing a growing tech collection isn’t as simple as putting everything into a box. Computer parts come in all shapes and sizes, with varying levels of sensitivity. Hard drives and GPUs require extra care to avoid damage, while bulky items like power supplies and cases take up significant space. Smaller components—like screws, adapters, and cables—are frustratingly easy to misplace. Without proper storage solutions, keeping track of everything can quickly spiral out of control.

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve purchased cables I thought I needed, only to discover later that I already had the exact item tucked away in a drawer or storage bin. It’s not just frustrating—it’s also a waste of money. This has taught me that while building and collecting computers is rewarding, managing the associated inventory requires a system to avoid unnecessary expenses and wasted time.

Storage issues don’t just cost money—they can lead to irreparable damage to valuable items. I learned this lesson the hard way when I found some older tech stashed in a duffle bag I’d used for storage. Among the items was my old blue Omega external Zip drive, a nostalgic piece from my early computing days. Unfortunately, the drive’s case was cracked in multiple places, and the motor was completely compromised. It was beyond repair, and my only recourse was to buy a replacement on eBay purely for sentimental reasons. That experience was a wake-up call: if I wanted to preserve the integrity of my collection, I needed to rethink how I stored my equipment.

These experiences made it clear that organization and proper storage are essential for managing a tech collection effectively. Without them, it’s easy to lose items, waste money, or even damage equipment that holds personal or financial value. Establishing a system has become a necessity, not just for convenience but for protecting my growing collection.

Exploring Solutions for Inventory Management

To address the challenges of managing my growing collection, I’ve tried various tools and approaches, each with its strengths and limitations. Traditional solutions like Excel spreadsheets are functional for basic inventory tracking, but they lack the user interface I need to make the process intuitive or enjoyable. Seeing a plain list of items doesn’t meet my needs, especially when I want to showcase my collection visually or add rich details like photos, descriptions, and specifications.

I also experimented with PartsDB, an open-source inventory system I could self-host. It was great for keeping track of my inventory privately, offering fields for product descriptions, images, and technical specifications. The interface provided exactly the kind of detail I wanted when managing items internally. However, PartsDB wasn’t designed to be shared with others, which made it less ideal for a collector like me who occasionally wants to display items or write about them. While I appreciated its functionality, it didn’t fully align with my vision for creating a platform that could serve both as an inventory system and a way to share my journey with others.

That’s where WordPress and WooCommerce come in. While WooCommerce is primarily an e-commerce platform, it offers a level of flexibility that fits my needs perfectly. By integrating it with WordPress, I can catalog my tech collection in a way that’s both functional and visually appealing. Each product can feature photos, specifications, and detailed descriptions, making it easy to organize and showcase my inventory. At the same time, WordPress allows me to write blog posts about my experiences, whether it’s the challenges of managing inventory, restoring a particular item, or the unique stories behind the pieces I’ve collected.

For now, I’m moving forward with WordPress and WooCommerce as the foundation for my system. They provide the structure I need for managing my inventory, the flexibility to share my collection with others, and the tools to document my experiences along the way. As I continue refining my approach, I look forward to building a platform that combines inventory management with storytelling—a system that’s as rewarding to use as the hobby itself.

Key Activities for Managing Inventory 

My process for managing inventory involves several key steps to ensure each component is properly documented, organized, and ready for potential use or display. Here’s how I approach it:

1. Preparation and Cleaning:
   Before adding a component to my inventory, I make sure it’s physically accessible and clean. Whether it’s a GPU, hard drive, or other component, I want it to look its best for both documentation and potential display.
2. Photography and Post-Processing:
   Once cleaned, I photograph the component to capture it from multiple angles. High-quality images not only showcase the product but also provide a visual reference for specifications and condition. After photographing, I post-process the images to enhance clarity, correct lighting, and add watermarks as needed. This step ensures my collection looks polished and professional.
3. Gathering Product Specifications:
   After photographing the item, I research and compile its specifications. Reliable sources like Amazon, Newegg, and the manufacturer’s website help me ensure the details are accurate and comprehensive. Including information like model numbers, dimensions, compatibility, and performance specifications makes each entry as useful as possible.
4. Categorization and Organization:
   Each product is categorized appropriately (e.g., GPUs, CPUs, storage drives) to make searching and filtering easier. This step is crucial for maintaining a structured inventory system, especially as the collection grows. On platforms like WooCommerce, categorization also supports better navigation for potential buyers.
5. Creating and Maintaining the Inventory List:
   By the end of this process, I have a complete, searchable inventory list organized by category. WooCommerce adds another layer of functionality, allowing me to manage the list effectively and even sell items if I choose to. This dual-purpose approach keeps my inventory system flexible and scalable for future needs.

Storage Strategies for Specific Components

Over time, I’ve accumulated a wide range of items, from hard drives and CPUs to RAM, laptops, and mobile devices, each requiring its own storage solution. Keeping these components organized and safely stored has become an essential part of managing my collection.

CPUs and RAM:
For sensitive items like CPUs and RAM, I invest in protective cases designed to keep them safe from dust, moisture, and accidental damage. If original packaging isn’t available, aftermarket cases or anti-static containers work well. These small items are easy to misplace, so having a dedicated box or drawer for them ensures they stay accessible and protected.

Hard Drives:
Hard drives are particularly sensitive to physical shocks and static, so I use anti-static bags for individual drives and store them in a dedicated drawer. As my collection grows and the drawer fills up, I may consider stacking organizers or expanding to a second storage solution to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to accidental damage.

Laptops and Mobile Devices:
My laptops are stored on a dedicated shelf where they can be neatly stacked without risking scratches or other damage. Mobile devices, including phones and tablets, are kept in a labeled drawer, separated by type. This system makes it easy to locate specific items when needed and prevents unnecessary clutter.

Cables and Accessories:
Cables can quickly become a tangled mess, so I’ve developed a system to manage them effectively. USB cables, power cables, and Ethernet cables each have their own labeled storage containers. For USB cables specifically, I go a step further by grouping them into smaller bags based on type (e.g., USB-C, micro-USB, USB-A) for quick access. This not only keeps my workspace tidy but also saves time when I need a specific type of cable.

Other Components:
Items that don’t fit into the above categories, such as adapters, chargers, or specialty components, are stored in extra drawers. I categorize these drawers loosely by function (e.g., “chargers and adapters” or “miscellaneous components”) and label them for easy identification. Having extra space available for future storage needs ensures I can adapt as my collection grows.

Proper storage and organization are critical for managing a growing tech collection. By developing thoughtful strategies for each type of component—whether it’s CPUs, hard drives, cables, or laptops—you can protect your items, reduce clutter, and make your collection easier to manage. As my own collection has grown, I’ve found that investing time and effort into storage solutions not only safeguards my equipment but also enhances my enjoyment of the hobby. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your own system, I hope these tips inspire you to take your storage strategies to the next level.

Documenting Inventory Details

While I’m still in the process of setting up my inventory in WooCommerce, I’ve already started tracking essential details like item condition, location, and specifications. Once complete, WooCommerce will allow me to centralize this information and make my inventory both organized and visually appealing. This system will not only help me stay on top of my collection but also make it easier to share or sell items in the future.

Looking Ahead: Selling and Decluttering

As my inventory grows, I’ve started thinking about the potential for selling or decluttering parts of my collection. WooCommerce provides the flexibility to turn my catalog into a marketplace if I choose, giving me the option to share my tech with others while creating room for new additions. For now, my focus is on getting organized, but I see this as an exciting possibility down the road.

Conclusion

Managing a tech collection is an evolving process that requires both creativity and structure. As I’ve refined my storage and documentation strategies, I’ve found that organization not only protects my collection but also enhances my enjoyment of the hobby. Whether you’re just starting your own collection or looking to improve your system, I hope these tips inspire you to find solutions that work for you.

I’m passionate about computers, anything and everything about them interests me. However, over the last few years, restoring computers from the 90s and early 2000s, like those running MS-DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows XP, has been one of my favorite hobbies. This passion inspired me to create a website to showcase my builds, colliercomputers.com. While assembling cutting-edge PCs with the latest technology is exciting, I find immense joy in bringing vintage systems back to life. Some retro machines hold a special charm, and with an abundance of parts and games on the used market, the hobby is both accessible and rewarding. Restoring computers isn’t as simple as it seems. The journey can be rewarding, yet the high cost of sought-after components, recurring hardware compatibility issues, and the ongoing struggle to locate the correct software drivers add significant complexity to the process.

The Surprising Cost of Retro PC Components

Restoring a retro PC from the 90s or early 2000s might sound like a straightforward project—grab an old machine, swap in some parts, and relive the glory days of computing. But as I’ve discovered, it’s not that simple. What I assumed would be a budget-friendly hobby quickly revealed hidden challenges: scarce components, sky-high prices, and the unpredictable condition of decades-old hardware. If you’re a computer builder who mods or upgrades your own PC, you’re likely familiar with the cost of modern parts and the thrill of scoring a deal. I figured upgrading a retro system with top-tier components would be cheap—maybe $100 to $300 total—but I was stunned to find 25-year-old GPUs selling for over $300. These unexpected hurdles have kept me from chasing the ultimate retro setup I envisioned.

I consider myself a savvy shopper, and with enough patience, platforms like Facebook Marketplace can be goldmines for retro computing enthusiasts. Lurk long enough, and you might find people practically giving away old computers—sometimes even in working condition. But “working condition” is a gamble. The first retro PC I snagged was a Micron running Windows 95, complete with a monitor, for just $75. It seemed like a steal for a full setup, even though the seller admitted they couldn’t power it on or troubleshoot it. With my experience, I was confident I could revive it—and I did, but not without effort. Restoring these machines often means wrestling with degraded capacitors, dusty internals, or missing drivers, turning a “quick fix” into a time-consuming puzzle.

Once I got the computer running, I decided to upgrade it, starting with the graphics card. For a 90s-era system, the Voodoo 3DFX is iconic—a holy grail for retro gamers. But when I checked eBay, I was floored: prices for these cards often exceed $500. It’s not just the Voodoo; other high-end components from that era, like the Intel Pentium III or Sound Blaster 16, carry premium price tags due to their rarity and nostalgia-driven demand. Sure, you can still find lower- and mid-tier hardware at reasonable prices, but building a top-of-the-line retro PC is a different story. The deeper I dug, the clearer it became: restoring a high-spec system from this era isn’t just about finding parts—it’s about navigating a market where scarcity and sentimentality inflate costs beyond reason.

Hardware Compatibility Issues

This is no different than the hardware compatibility issues from today, but ensuring retro computer component compatibility is not as straightforward. Thankfully, the internet and more recently, A.I. tools like ChatGPT have been a tremendous help in confirming compatibility, the challenge still exists. From 1990-2010, there were so many components released and not all components have been thoroughly documented.

One of the most common struggles involves video cards. Early ISA and AGP video cards, for example, require specific slots, whereas newer PCI and PCI-E cards are entirely different standards. Ensuring your video card matches your motherboard is critical to avoid compatibility issues.

Another major concern is power supply compatibility. Many older computers rely heavily on power supplies with a 5V rail to power key components like the motherboard and CPU. However, modern PSUs are designed to deliver more power on the 12V rail, which can overwhelm older hardware or fail to supply sufficient power to the components that need it most.

Having spare components will be something that help you troubleshoot and tinker when it comes to computer component combinations.

The Struggle with Software Drivers

Rebuilding retro computers often means investing in specific components to ensure everything works as it should. However, even with the right hardware, software drivers can pose a significant challenge. For instance, a sound card designed for a specific vendor, like a Dell-branded sound card, may not function properly with another manufacturer’s system due to proprietary drivers or firmware.

Driver compatibility isn’t just a hardware issue—it’s also a software availability problem. Many drivers for older systems are no longer supported by manufacturers and can be difficult to track down. This means relying on community forums, archival websites, or driver repositories to find the files you need. Even then, the drivers may not always work as expected or could require extensive troubleshooting to install on legacy operating systems.

In some cases, enthusiasts turn to open-source driver projects or hardware emulation as a workaround, but these solutions aren’t always ideal or reliable. The challenge of finding and configuring the right drivers adds another layer of complexity to retro computing but also makes the eventual success all the more rewarding.

Component Failures and Repairs

Sometimes, components simply fail. This isn’t unique to retro computing—even modern hardware can arrive defective, which is why manufacturers offer RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) processes for replacements or repairs.

However, RMA options only apply to new products under warranty. When you’re buying used parts or a second-hand computer, you won’t have the safety net of an RMA. This means you’ll need to troubleshoot issues yourself and, in some cases, complete repairs to get the component working again.

Over time, I’ve built up an inventory of spare parts specifically for these situations. Maintaining a stockpile of components—like motherboards, CPUs, RAM, and power supplies—has been invaluable when restoring older systems. Not only does it help speed up troubleshooting, but it also reduces downtime if I need to replace a part.

That said, building an inventory comes with its own set of challenges. Finding parts in good working condition requires patience, and keeping everything organized can be tricky. I’ve learned to label and test components as I acquire them to ensure they’ll work when I need them.

Despite the effort, having spare parts on hand is a game-changer, especially when working with rare or mission-critical hardware. It allows me to experiment, test different configurations, and keep retro systems running smoothly, even when the unexpected happens.

Why It’s All Worth It

For me, restoring computers is an incredibly rewarding experience. It starts with the joy of disassembling the machine, carefully reviewing its internal components, cleaning each part, and then reassembling everything. There’s something deeply satisfying about putting it all back together and seeing the system come to life.

Equally enjoyable is the process of configuring the operating system and drivers to achieve a fully functional setup. Getting the video card to display proper resolution and colors, or ensuring the sound card delivers crisp audio, feels like solving a complex puzzle—challenging but immensely gratifying once complete.

And then comes the best part: putting the restored system to the test with classic games. Whether it’s revisiting old favorites or discovering hidden gems, playing on a retro machine takes me back in time. For me, there’s nothing better than the combination of nostalgia and accomplishment that comes from bringing an old computer back to life and using it the way it was meant to be.