Donate Your Old Computers and Electronics

Computers, cell phones, laptops and many other electronic consumer items are often put aside, even though they are still functional. Our California Computer Recycling directory gives you a multitude of nearby recycling companies and organizations to help you clear out your accumulation of un-needed equipment. Before you load up those old items and take them to the recycling center, though, stop and consider whether there’s a way they can be returned to useful service in another setting. Californians, like everyone else, would rather repurpose than recycle and reuse rather than discard useful items. Here are some ways you can give your old electronics a new lease on life:

• Upgrade Old Computers – Before taking your old PC or notebook to the recycler, think about the possibility of continuing to use it. A larger hard drive, more memory, and a fresh installation of its original configuration can turn an old boat anchor computer into a useful tool. Old Windows XP computers, for example, can become fast platforms for Linux and continue their usefulness for web browsing and other activities. The cost of upgrading a three-year-old PC is low, but the benefits can be great.
• Give Old Computers a New Purpose – For businesses, especially, not every computer used in the business needs to be the latest model. When replacing an older computer with a new model, consider whether the old system can be used in another role in your business. By using that replaced computer to replace an even older one, you can extend its useful life and provide an upgrade to additional employees. Older computers can also serve as printer servers or data storage devices on your network and retain their usefulness.
• Donate Your Computer Hardware – While an older desktop or laptop computer may no longer meet your own requirements, it could be ideal for use by someone else who needs a computer but can’t necessarily afford one. Both individuals and businesses can help others and even get tax deductions through donating fully functional computers to worthy causes. Here’s how to find ways to donate your equipment:
  • Search on Google – Search for places to donate your computers with the search phrase “donate computer” along with your location. Many organizations are actively seeking donations of desktop PCs, laptops and computer peripherals in excellent condition. Finding such resources in your area is an excellent way to help.
  • Goodwill Industries – You’ll find listings for Goodwill Industries locations in our Computer Recycling directory. They’re experts at re-purposing older computers and use the latest software technology to wipe data off computers and configure them for users who cannot afford a new computer.
  • Schools & Churches – Check with your local churches and public and private schools for donation opportunities. Laptop computers are especially needed for disadvantaged students, who will benefit greatly from having their own computer.
  • Data Security Concerns – Before donating a PC or laptop, you’ll need to make certain all data on its hard drive is safely removed. In some cases the organization that accepts the donation can be trusted to handle this process but make sure your personal or business data is removed properly.
  • Distributed Computing Projects – For individuals and organizations that have in-house networks connected to the Internet, older computers can be configured to participate securely in global distributed research projects. From genetic information processing to many other projects, these distributed networks are working to solve complex scientific problems through large-scale networking and data processing. Devoting an unused computer to these projects isn’t for everyone, but can materially assist important research. Search for “distributed computing projects” on Google, Yahoo or Bing to locate potential projects.
  • Donate Other Electronic Devices – Cell phones, e-readers and tablet devices are also sought after by organizations for distribution to people who need those devices but cannot afford them. You can locate local resources in California or nationally for these donations through an Internet search in your area. You’ll benefit worthy causes and keep your devices out of overloaded landfills.

Reusing Older Computers through Donation Has Great Benefits

At California Computer Recycling, we want to help people find the best possible ways to deal with older computers and peripherals. We know that donating old computer hardware isn’t always possible or practical, but in many cases, it’s a terrific way to extend the usefulness of desktop PCs, laptops, tablets, and even cell phones. We encourage everyone to consider donation of unwanted devices as an alternative to recycling or disposal.