Gartner says 133,000 computers per day are retired or replaced. But instead of pitching them into the dump where they leak mercury and lead, try the following ideas:

Back-up server

Every modern networked family needs help with backups. An older PC that can't run new games can still become a central back-up server. If you don't have a legal Microsoft Windows license, you can load just about any flavor of Linux and support Windows networking. Keep users off this system and dedicate it as shared storage only, and you'll have no virus or spyware issues.Configure the system without a password so it boots automatically, and take away the keyboard and monitor. Aim all the other computers' back-up target directories to the hard disk on this system. It's not the best back-up option because there's no off-site storage, but it's better than nothing.

Music server

Put your old PC near your entertainment center and plug the speaker-out connector to one of the auxiliary inputs on your receiver (you'll need a stereo 1/8-inch mini-plug to RCA connector patch cable from Radio Shack).

If you have a legal Microsoft Windows license, you can play a huge variety of Internet radio channels. If you don't, Linux versions (free or very inexpensive) now include comparable media players.

You might want to eliminate the monitor and keyboard for space and aesthetics. If you don't have a remote-control utility, check out RealVNC for a free utility that works on Windows and Linux systems so you can control the music from any other computer in the house.

E-mail station

Make an old system a dedicated browsing or e-mail station for family members to use when the primary system is busy. Even a Pentium I system can do instant messaging, which might reduce the conflict level in homes with several children.

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Strip for parts

When removing computers from service, go-to guys might want to pull these components out of systems destined for recycling to help make future repairs:

• Hard disk . You might need to replace one, or add more storage. But if you do discard, get a file eraser utility and use it before sending the disk away.
• Sound board . Enhanced sound boards, particularly those that cost $100 or more, provide better sound and more features than sound chips on motherboards.
• Network adapters . Some people love to make their own firewalls, and you'll need two network adapters to make that work.
• Graphics cards . High-end video cards, especially gaming ones, provide more performance and features than video chips on motherboards.

Recycle responsibly

Leaving a PC at the curb isn't a good solution. Check out the National Cristina Foundation to give computers to the disabled. Check out Earth911 for a large collection of recycling locations and information. Look at dire statistics and helpful information from the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition .

Many cities provide safe recycling drop-off locations for electronic equipment. If your city doesn't already, ask them to start.

Brand-name manufacturers are being pushed to recycle (more in Europe than in the U.S.). On Earth Day (April 23), companies such as HP and Dell announced recycling initiatives to collect old equipment. You might even get a few-dollars discount on your next machine if you trade in your old one.

Some fundraising groups (PTA, Boy and Girl Scouts) are starting to gather old ink and laser jet cartridges from printers for money. The office supply giant Staples has great information .