Frankenputer

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The Jargon File Parts of this article are based on the Jargon File, v. 4.4.7, a public domain document of hacker jargon.

Frankenputer

Usage: n.

Frankenputer: n.

1. A mostly-working computer thrown together from the spare parts of several machines out of which the magic smoke had been let. Most shops have a closet full of nonworking machines. When a new machine is needed immediately (for testing, for example) and there is no time (or budget) to requisition a new box, someone (often an intern) is tasked with building a Frankenputer.
2. Also used in referring to a machine that once was a name-brand computer, but has been upgraded long beyond its useful life, to the point at which the nameplate violates truth-in-advertising laws (e.g., a Pentium III-class machine inexplicably living in a case marked "Gateway 486/66").

Sources

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