Steps To Take Before Recycling Your Old Computer
Posted on: 3 October 2016
If you have an older computer sitting around in your home, and you do not wish for it to take up space any longer, you will need to find a method in disposing of it properly. Many towns host electronics recycling days where you can drop off no longer needed equipment if desired. You could also find a recycling service to handle this task. Before you bring your computer to a recycling collection area, there are a few steps you should do to ensure the piece of equipment is free of personal information or desired components.
Back Up And Delete Files If Possible
It is important to remove any personal information from your computer so you do not become at risk for an identity theft problem down the line. If your computer is still in running order, boot it up and take the time to back up all your personal files and programs from the internal hard drive to an external hard drive. This way, you will have photographs, documents, games, or other information you may want to utilize in the future.
After a successful transfer process, it is best to wipe your internal hard drive clean of all information. This can be done by highlighting all backed up files and deleting yourself, or via a downloadable program to ensure all remnants of information is eliminated in its entirety.
Take Out Reusable Components As Backup Pieces Or To Sell
There are several parts of your computer that you may want to remove before bringing the unit to a recycling center. The battery can be removed and reused in another computer if necessary. The hard drive, motherboard, video, and sound cards can also be removed from the computer if you think you can use them yourself later on. Since you are getting rid of an older model, these pieces may make a nice chunk of change if you sell them to a computer supply store or via an online auction or social media sale group.
It is also a good idea to remove any components that appear to have copper within their composition. These can be recycled separately at a scrap metal yard in exchange for cash. Take the time to open all compact disk drives to make sure you did not leave a compact disk behind. Also check all ports for smaller plugged in items, such as wireless USB components to run the mouse or the computer keyboard.
For more information about destroying electronics, talk to a professional like NILO TECH ECYCLING.
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