How to Donate Computer Components
by Emily McNair, Demand MediaComputers have a fairly limited lifespan in this age of technology. With most computers being outdated by the time they are a year old, its not uncommon to start a collection of outdated devices that have been replaced by newer, upgraded models. If you don't have a need for your old devices, consider donating them back into your community for others to use and learn from.
Items you will need
- Old computer equipment
Donating Computer Components
Step 1
Identify what components you want to donate. Even though your overall computer system may be outdated, it still has some components that never go out of style, like hard drives. Remove any components you may want to keep and reuse at a later date.
Step 2
Research your options. Investigating a site such as Use Computer (see Resources) will show you where you can donate and/or recycle your old computer components locally. Oftentimes, large Goodwill centers will take your old computer towers and monitors, which they later use to teach people in the community basic computer skills.
Step 3
Pack up your components and drop them off at the donation center of your choice. Call in advance to make sure the center is still taking computers; some centers may have more then they have a need for and might recommend an alternative donation plan.
Step 4
Consider recycling. Many states have laws regarding the disposal of old computer equipment. If you can't find a donation center locally, contact your area recycling program and inquire about how to dispose of your old components.
Tips
- Consider posting an ad on a free classifieds site such as Freecycle (see Resources) or craigslist to offer your components to someone who may be in need of them.
- Oftentimes local college students majoring in computers are in need of old towers to disassemble for learning purposes. Consider calling your local community college and offering your old components for the students' use.
