What To Do With Your Old Computer

If you’re anything like the StarterTech crew, you’re building a small pile of outdated or dead equipment.  Computers, laptops, VCRs, TVs, video games and more are cluttering up your life, just taking up space.  We actually have a shelf in our office building we call “The Graveyard” as it holds nothing but dead computer parts.

As this problem has gained momentum due to the number of computers in the world, more and more companies have tried finding solutions to help consumers.  Many computer manufacturers now offer some sort of trade-in program, and companies such as Staples offer a program where they will take nearly anything you have.

If the items are in working order, I always think it’s always a good idea to donate them to a school, a home for wayward youth or anything where access to a computer may very well change someone one’s life.  If it isn’t working, than I always recommend going with a recycling program.  Quite often these programs will offer you some sort of credit with their company, admittedly not much, but it’s better than getting nothing at all and helping to fill our landfills faster.  You also have to remember there are many dangerous items in many gadgets if they should leak into the soil.  Rechargeable batteries are always a worry, so cell phones and MP3 players are never a good idea to throw out as they will eventually leak.

In short, yes, it will take a little work on your part, but recycling of electronics is always the best idea.