Rescued PC from a garbage dump functioning again - once discarded hardware capable of running Linux and light games
A unique find and an exciting project, a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) equipped with an Intel Core i5-6600, 8GB RAM, AMD Radeon R9 380 GPU, and running Windows 11 IoT Enterprise has been given a new lease of life. u/AcordeonPhx, a Reddit user, rescued the PLC from becoming e-waste and transformed it into a mid-range modern gaming PC.
Originally designed for specialized industrial or commercial Internet of Things (IoT) applications, this PLC was likely used as an industrial or enterprise gateway controller that interfaced between IoT devices and cloud or enterprise systems. Its CPU and GPU were utilised for processing, visualization, or video analytics tasks. The presence of a dedicated GPU (Radeon R9 380) suggests it may have handled graphical or video-intensive IoT workloads.
Running Windows 11 IoT Enterprise ensured long-term security updates and stability without typical consumer bloatware, making it suitable for reliable 24/7 operation in embedded or kiosk scenarios. However, with a little tinkering, this PLC can now be converted into a modern gaming or general-purpose system.
The first step in the transformation was to replace the Windows 11 IoT Enterprise operating system with a consumer OS like Windows 11 Pro or a Linux distribution with gaming support. The Radeon R9 380, although older, remains capable of running many modern games at medium settings, making it feasible for casual or retro gaming.
The upgraded PLC was also equipped with a new AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT GPU, 16GB of RAM, and a new Solid State Drive (SSD). It was mounted on a Gigabyte GA-H100M-A motherboard and powered by a Seasonic SS-520GB 520W power supply.
With drivers and firmware updates, the upgraded PLC can also be used for machine learning at the edge, video streaming, or digital signage, given its graphical and processing capabilities. It's even possible to install Bazzite into the PLC and use it as a Linux gaming machine.
In short, this gaming PLC, designed primarily for robust industrial/enterprise IoT roles involving substantial compute and GPU usage, has been repurposed as a mid-range modern gaming PC or general-purpose workstation. It serves as a testament to the versatility of modern technology and the creativity of tech enthusiasts.
References:
- The Verge
- Microsoft
- Tom's Hardware
- PC Gamer
- Gigabyte
- Seasonic
- Despite its industrial roots as an industrial or enterprise gateway controller, this reimagined PLC, now equipped with gaming gadgets and powered by technology, offers a versatile lifestyle for mid-range modern gaming or general-purpose tasks.
- Following its transition from an IoT device to a home-and-garden entertainment centerpiece, the upgraded PLC showcases the potential for technology to adapt and foster new passions, blurring the lines between work and playlife.
