Why buy a new computer when you can just build one?
That was the challenge given to Clarkston area campers during a recent workshop concentrating on the inner workings of one of today’s most important technical tools.
The ‘Build Your Own Computer? camp hosted a three-day workshop June 22-24 in which students learned the necessary skills to build their own computer or help assist in the assembly of a fellow camper’s.
Led by Jim Motley, who owns his own computer consulting firm, the beginning day of the workshop focused on the history of computers and important dates in history related to it. From there students learned how to assemble their chosen computer and then loaded operating systems and software programs.
‘I’ve instructed a lot of classes. I like getting watches the faces,? Motley said. ‘I like saying something and striking a nerve.?
Motley taught students the ins and outs of computer basics, many of which were new to them.
‘I didn’t even know what DOS was,? Kyle Sahutske said.
The cost to attend the camp was $100 plus the cost of the computer itself, which ranged from $600-$1,000 depending on what system the camper wanted.
‘I know more than my dad now,? Trevor Harris said. Harris, just like the rest of his fellow campers, was interested in pursuing a career in computers later in life. Out of the four students, only two actually purchased a computer to assemble due to cost.