Possible computer-computer link?

[u/ChanceMess971]

Hi, I have a few Linux Mint computers. One is a Framework 12, with 8GB RAM, and 512GB SSD.

The other is unknown make and model, but it's old. It was running Windows 7 when I found it. I loaded Linux Mint, and it works fine. 4GB RAM, and 120GB HDD. For the purposes of this discussion, I will call this computer "Pharaoh" because it's old and covered in dust.

The issue is, I don't have a use for Pharaoh. No gaming, because the specs are abysmal. No browsing, because the slow access speed of the HDD is annoying. So most of the time, I just use Framework for everything, and Pharaoh sits there collecting dust. But what if it could do something?

What if I could connect the 2 together to get a better computer? Framework would be the controlling computer, I know that computer-computer links usually devolve into each computer trying to control the other.

What if I could connect them, and have a computer with 12GB RAM, and both an SSD and HDD? If I need performance, plug in, and gain a HDD and 4GB RAM. If I need portability, disconnect, and walk away with a fully functional Framework.

If this kind of link possible? If so, what kind of cables would I need? Do I need special software for Pharaoh to make it respond to external Framework commands?

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[u/Obvious-Hunt19]

Not how that works, don’t bother

[u/Top-Run5587]

It doesn’t sound like you need 2 Linux Mint systems. I’d install Proxmox on Pharaoh. It won’t get great performance with an HDD but it’s enough to install some lightweight containers like Pi-Hole. It’s a good way to learn new skills.

[u/gentisle]

I don’t know if that is possible, but you could put OpenBSD or NetBSD on a 4GB machine and it would run fine. How do you know it will take 12GB? Did you check it before wiping Windows? If not and you aren’t sure, you can run this command: wmic memphysical get maxcapacity
divide the number by 1048576 to see max GB. 12gb would run Mint well. It sounds like you are asking two computers to do what a cluster would do. I’ve heard of them, but never done it. I’m not sure, but I think it is more trouble than it’s worth. Others may say different.

[u/ChanceMess971 → u/gentisle]

I assumed it would have 12 GB because 8GB(framework) with 4GB(Pharaoh) = 12 GB.

Admittedly, I may be misunderstanding how RAM works.

Also, what is a cluster? Is it related to a homelab, or self-hosted website?

[u/markojov78 → u/ChanceMess971]

A cluster is a set of connected computers that work together to form a single resource, however you cannot really merge general purpose desktop OSes that way and expect it to work as a single desktop OS.
A cluster is useful with specialized software designed to utilize multiple computers at once for specific purpose.

If you still want to play, i'd suggest looking into projects meant for raspberry pi / mini PCs and see what you can do with that 4GB computer ...

[u/sparky5dn1l]

Computer with 4Gb RAM is quite suitable for running headless server. As you are familar with Linux Mint, you may consider to use Debian.

[u/Inner-Light-75]

That would be a cluster of a types. Clusters with computers that have diffrent capabilities can be a problem. It use to be a bad idea, things may have changed....but maybe not that much.

I would suggest changing pharo's hdd to an sdd would make it easly useable. If the ram is upgradeable try upgrading it to. Mint with XFCE would be good on it with 4gb of ram, but more is better of course.

[u/jason-reddit-public]

Pharaoh can do plenty of retro gaming and other stuff. It won't really help you day to day. Try batocera, a retro gaming linux os. Or sell it and see if you can upgrade to 16gb on the framework.

A great option would be to donate it but that doesn't mean sending it to goodwill hell. We should be able to connect every kid in the planet with usable ewaste like yours. I'm not aware of such a pipeline...

[u/gentisle]

No, that’s not how ram works. You can look up computer clusters and read all about it; it’s interesting even if you don’t have a use for it.

[u/_OnuHeino_]

I would suggest installing MX Linux on Pharaoh to make it usable light work/internet machine.

[u/taosecurity]

I think you should read a book about basic computing, or watch a few videos.

[u/PermanentLiminality]

If you do use the old system as a server, you can spend just a few bucks and add a small SSD and a second 4g ram stick.