Computer Competition Prize Suggestions

WarriorBlake

CAGiversary!
The college I am at is participating in a Computer maintenance technology competition. There will be 3ed, 2ed, and 1st place prizes set at $25, $50, and $75 respectively. Going over those limits are welcome, but would be preferred to be at those amounts Last year they gave out gift cards but I thought it would be better if the winners were given actual prizes. I mentioned it and if I could find the right prizes, then they would consider giving out actual prizes.

I thought having each winner get a 16 GB Thumb drive (appx. $25 at Newegg). Then give 2ed and 1st a $25 toolkit and lastly give 1st place a $25 multimeter. Does anyone have any suggestions or comments about this arrangements?
 
A 16GB thumb drive would be great to have (i'd love one :)). If you want actual prizes, it really depends on what you can find for computer maintenance...software, hardware, etc. The toolkit sounds like a perfect prize and everyone could use money i'm sure. I don't really think you need to change your current prize lineup.
 
Cool idea; I'd go flash drive as you suggested for 3rd place, 3-1 type drive adapter & a usb hub or just a vertical drive dock for 2nd place. Finally for 1st place I'd get them a certificate to newegg or zipzoomfly and let them choose their own prize.
 
I would recommend against one of those pre-built computer toolkits. They're overpriced and mostly worthless.

I teach computer maintenance workshops and we get by with just a 6-in-1 screwdriver like this:

https://www.hardwareworld.com/6-In-1-Screw-Driver-p9W79ON.aspx

You can find these for $3 at places like Big Lots.

Personally, I can use an original Leatherman tool for 99% of what I do. That would be a great prize.

Also, a good set of jeweler's/precision screwdrivers are essential for laptop work.

Multimeters are mostly useless to beginning techs. An ATX power supply tester like the one Antec makes can be handy sometimes, but you don't need one very often.

Others have mentioned a hard drive to USB adapter. These are invaluable. I use mine all the time.

A good sized USB thumb drive is always a welcome gift. I recommend one with a read-only switch, or a mini SDHC card adapter paired with a SDHC memory card, because the SD cards have a read-only switch built in. You need a hardware read-only switch for working in environments that are full of virus infested computers or else you will find your thumb drive infected. I use this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Reader-Hi-Speed-Supports-Capacity-GFR212SD/dp/B000UF3L74
 
Yes these are some cool prizes
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