Those $50-$100 used HP desktops will be fine for what you need.  I would do some research on the webcam you decide to purchase though.. to ensure it is compatible with Linux.  I purchased a Microsoft webcam once.. and eventually tried to use it in Linux.. big mistake.  I think any Logitech will be good.

-Jordan

On 11/06/2013 01:22 PM, tclug at freakzilla.com wrote:
> You can easily put together a new mini-itx system that'll happily run 
> the latest Linux desktop software for under $300. Source: I just did.
>
> What are you planning on running on the thing? Unless you're doing 
> REALLY heavy stuff you should be fine.
>
> On Wed, 6 Nov 2013, Tom Poe wrote:
>
>> Hello:  Time for me to think about purchasing used desktop that can 
>> handle latest linux software. How old can I go?  Less than $200 price 
>> range still reasonable expectation?  Any thoughts appreciated.
>> Tom
>>
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>> tclug-list at mn-linux.org
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>>
> _______________________________________________
> TCLUG Mailing List - Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota
> tclug-list at mn-linux.org
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>
>
Well, googled mini-itx and scanned over site.  Looks techie to me. I 
mostly do email and watch msnbc videos, but would like to set up webcam 
video production so I can make youtube rants about current events to 
keep me occupied through the winter.  Graphics apps and webcam 
configuration desired.  I checked with Minco in St Cloud, and they have 
a couple HP desktops with XP on them.
Tom