Multi-computing and supercomputers

[seneca]

How possible would it be to connect say like 5 or so old computers in a beowulf style linux cluster? How much more powerful would it be? Would it even be useable?

(When I say old computers, I mean like Pentium 4 and Core 2 Duo with only like a gig or 2 of ram, 4 at the maximum)

 

[beers]

Honestly it wouldn't be worth the cost of electricity to run.

You can certainly install Linux and run some crap over MPI though that would be a fun exercise.

 

[seneca]

Yeah I've been bored lately and wanted a fun project to do, If i build it i'll probably use it like once or twice, but any recommendations for which linux distro i should use, I heard RedHat or Ubuntu server would be good.

 

[Okedokey]

Possible, but diminishing returns I would expect.