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Do you know that more than 1.2 billion smartphones are produced every year? Most of these devices end up in landfills, contributing to the growing global e-waste crisis. But what if there was a clever, greenery way to use them? Researchers are now showing us that old smartphones as data centers can be the next big thing in durable technology.
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The old smartphone is converted into small data centers. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
The old smartphone gets new life as a mini data center
A team of the University of Tartu Institute of Computer Science in Estonia, Northern Europe has found a creative way to give a new objective to the old phone. Instead of collecting dust or polluting the environment, these phones are being rebuilt in small data centers. By connecting the old smartphone together, the team enables them to process and store data efficiently for research and community projects, which is an innovative idea with significant effects.
How researchers convert smartphones into low cost data centers
Changing the old smartphone into data centers is surprisingly inexpensive. Researchers removed the battery (to prevent chemical leaks) and used external power sources. Then they added the phone, placed them in 3D-crushed holders, and made a working prototype. These mini-detta centers have already been tested in real-world scenarios, such as monitoring underwater work that usually requires expensive equipment.
Image of an old phone on a desk. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
Environmental impact of reuse of old phone
Each phone that attains a second life as a data center means low toxic materials in landfill and low demand for new electronics. This approach not only reduces e-waste, but also protects valuable resources and cuts COO emissions from manufacturing. By expanding the lives of our equipment, we are taking a big step towards the more sustainable future.
What can you do with your old smartphone
Before taking out your old phone, consider donating it to organizations that raise the electronics up. Your device can help provide electricity to the next wave of permanent technical solutions. Together, we can keep our landfills cleaner and support innovative research, what we do with our old smartphone by rethinking all.
An image of people on your smartphone. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
Kurt’s major takeaways
Giving the old smartphone as a data center is a simple way that we can help reduce e-waste and support permanent technology. Imagine positive effects if more people embraced the old smartphone as data centers instead of sending them to landfill.
Will you consider converting your unused phone into something that the powers do research or help in your community? Write us and tell us Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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