Old Data

OK, it's probably legal to sift through Old Data, and 97% of it is boring (which probably mirrors real life), but the original question was about ethics. If this was *your* Old Data, you probably wouldn't want it in the hands of one of the Dumpster Divers on this list, so how about a Classic Computer Collector's Code of Conduct and Helpful Hints for Computer Donors? The CCCCC: * I'll do my damnest to find a home for any orphaned classic computer. * If I already have a clean example of a particular classic computer, I'll offer newly spotted machines to other collectors before I hoard them for myself. * I will attempt to keep my machines in working order and will refrain * I'll return or destroy any personal data I find on a machine I acquire. * I'll respect software and publication copyrights. * I'll actively promote ethical collecting and will aid mere users in the decomissioning of their machines. Helpful Hints for Mere Users: * Backup your data before giving it away. * Delete all personal data and overwrite the data with nonsense (e.g, from MS-DOS: "TYPE FOO >> FOO" will fill the empty clusters with the contents of FOO). * If you have an old hard disk, park it before shutting down. * Remove floppies from the drives, and leave the drives open. However, if you have the original cardboard floppy protector, stick it in the drive and close it. * Include all system software, manuals, and cables in a zip lock bag and rubber-band them together with the machine. * Do not use spindle, mutilate, or put any sticky stuff on your machine. * Pack the computer into a box, and use nearly as much packing material as you would if you were going to ship it. * Get a receipt for your donation. Comments? -- Doug