The mission of ByteWORKS is to provide opportunities for youth to develop their academic, vocational, and entrepreneurial skills and to become community leaders.
The byteWORKS children’s earn-a-computer program accepts 4th through 8th grade students with no requirements regarding income or geography. The program is free to the students. all that is required is that they attend all six 1 1/2 hours sessions. One makeup class is allowed. If the student completes all 6 sessions, they receive a rebuilt computer.
Please see Earn A Computer for more information.
Since 2006, the children have been learning to use their computers running the Debian/GNU Linux operating system. Starting in December 2008, we are changing over to the Ubuntu operating system. A question we are often asked is, “why Linux?” That is, why are we using something other than a Microsoft Windows operating system?
There are many reasons why Linux is the better choice. This document explains why.
ByteWORKS also offers a series of classes for adults. This is an excellent introductory program for adults of any age interested in learning more about computers and the software skills needed to succeed in today’s technology oriented business environment.
Please see adult classes for more information.
Byteworks is considering a couple of new programs
The Byteworks workshop would be an open-ended project unlike the Earn a Computer program. Students could use Byteworks facilities and instructors' expertice to work on individual projects. See workshop_interest_form for more information.
Bworks is a completely volunteer driven organization. As such, there are many varied opportunities for you to participate, both technical and non-technical.
Please see Volunteer Opportunities for Byteworks' various volunteer opportunities.
Byteworks also has a shop that provides refurbished computers.
The $49 Computer is a Pentium III up to 700MHz, 256MB RAM, CD-RW, Sound Card, 56k Dial Up Modem, Network Card, 10-20 Gigabyte Hard Drive, 17” monitor(If Availible), keyboard, mouse and headphones (or speakers if availible.) It comes with Ubuntu 8.04 operating system pre-installed. Software applications include Open Office Productivity Suite, Firefox Web Browser, the GIMP Image Editor, Evolution Email Client, Rhythmbox Music Player, and more.
The ‘web and e-mail’ network computer
This computer is usually the lowest end machine - just enough to run a web browser. Usually a Pentium II with 128M RAM, NIC, CD-ROM. Usually no sound, modem.
The Ubuntu Multimedia computer is meant to be comparable to the $200 Linux computers being sold now at WalMart. The machine should have a P4 processor, 512MB RAM, DVD player, CD burner, and at least a 40GB hard drive. Ubuntu 8.04 “Hardy Heron” is the installed operating system. After a standard installation, the following post-install “tweaks” are needed: