Many Uses for 486 and 386 Computers

Many 386 and especially 486 computers are still functioning well, and can often be purchased inexpensively or even be acquired for free. Despite the insistance of some people that these computers are completely "obsolete", they can still be used for a variety of purposes, partially due to the fact that older software often was designed more efficiently.

BUSINESS APPLICATIONS: Applications like word processors, calendars, and spreadsheets (of the appropriate older version) will run well on 386 and 486 computers. DOS 6.x and Windows 3.x (and earlier) will run on these computers, making it possible to use a wide range of older applications. If necessary, these applications can often be purchased on eBay.com with their original disks and instructions. Windows 95 may run on some computers of this era, but could be substantially slower than 3.x or DOS. 386/486 laptops are much less expensive than Pentium II and newer models, making the portable usage of such applications more affordable.

GAMES: A vast selection of games from the '80s and '90s will run on these computers. Games from this period less-frequently contained graphic violence or obscene subject-matter. There were also more games (such as the Sierra graphical adventures with text command input) which combined substantial text and graphics, often requiring more creativity. These games were also more likely to promote better reading ability among children, because of their text elements.

PARTS: While not all parts from 386/486 computers can be installed in newer computers - especially Pentium III/IV models - parts like modems, hard drives, internal speakers, plates/covers, power supplies, and sound cards may still be quite useful. When the power supply on my Pentium II desktop computer failed, I replaced it with the power supply from my old 486 and it still works fine. I have also successfully used a 386's modem in a 286, a Pentium I, and a Pentium II.