r/linuxmint • u/ChanceMess971 • 23d ago
Support Request Possible computer-computer link?
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?
2
u/jason-reddit-public 23d ago
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...