Question about my new/used computer.

[aimeeandbeatles]

OK, so I got a hold of an older (Windows 98) laptop, a Toshiba, it was only $10, the woman said it was "moody" and "kept shutting down." She obviously wasn't the computer type.

Haven't taken a look at it yet, but from what I said, what do you all think it is at first?

I've thought of overheating and bad drivers, haven't tested anything yet.

Luckily for me it comes with the OEM disc, and also I got a hold of a retail version of Windows 98 (it was at the same yardsale.)

P.S. Also got a hold of an Aptiva IBM!!! Yay!!! That brings the number of computers I own up to... errr, 5.

EDIT: Upon bootup, the laptop started shaking violently and I've never heard a computer make that sound before. Almost like "whirr-whirr-taptaptap" like some motor got stuck. Suspecting the hard drive. It also asked me to insert a system disc.

ANOTHER EDIT: My mom put in a Windows 98 disc (she thinks the solution to EVERYTHING is to reinstall) only for it to say there's no hard drive!

 

[Zelig]

Not worth using, throw it out.

 

[aimeeandbeatles]

I'd like to make that judgement for myself, thank you very much.

 

[J-man]

sounds like the hard drive is broke. If it has usb ports you might be able to plug in an external hard drive and install a light weight linux distro.

 

[Genocidicbunny]

HDD's dead, mechanically dead. New HDD will cost you around 30 USD. It is unlikely that the hdd is the only problem the laptop has.
You can make all the judgements you want on your own, but hardware of that age is neither cool nor very useful. Its modern enough that its essentially the same structure as a relatively new laptop, so any of the coolness factor of having antique hardware is gone.

Do yourself, and some kid out there a favor and donate it. If only the HDD is broken, they may be able to get it in a working condition, and for someone who does not own a computer at all, it will do the basic job. Write it off on your taxes as a donation or something.