Tech Blog

[#1]

Usually I like to write about new and exciting technology and tech developments. But there's another side to that coin -- old tech that you're replacing with the coolest new thing. Usually it sits in a closet, under a bed, collecting dust. Someday, some how, you dispose of it, but how?

I've been replacing tech for as long as I can remember, but I've never really gotten a handle on the best way to get rid of the used tech. So I thought I'd explore what I do now, and toss out a question asking how you deal with older tech.

Computers
I've built and upgraded all my PCs, replacing sound cards, video cards, RAM, CD/DVD drives and hard discs. Usually I migrate the older stuff to backup computers or to a 'spare parts' closet, which is now full to bursting. But once I determine that it's no longer useful to me comes the real dilemma; how best to get rid of it.

I'm fortunate I have a neighbour who refurbs computers, and he's always happy to pick through my stuff. But what about the leftovers?

In Edmonton we have Ecostation recycling centres that will accept electronics, but they dispose of them. I guess I could try and sell them on (competitor) or (competitor), or give them away through Freecycle.

Devices
This one is tougher. I've got two or three versions of Palm Pilots sitting around now, an old VCR and a very cool 13" tube television and monitor. Not to mention cable boxes, old routers, lots of S-Video and VGA video cable. This is all in good working condition, yet nobody really wants the old tech. Usual community reconditioners (like Goodwill) won't necessarily take all of this.

One in, one out
So, to keep our home somewhat sane and organized, we've adopted a one-in, one-out rule. Anytime something new arrives, something similar has to leave. No matter how it goes. Which has resulted in more trips to the Ecostation, as well as more consideration toward the purchase of a new item.

And now, Christmas is coming. You can bet there'll be atleast one gadget or tech toy under that tree. Time to think about stuff I don't use as much as I used to. But then, perhaps part of it is my predelection to packratitis I find it hard to give up perfectly useful tech. How 'bout you? How do you manage bringing new toys into your home, and dispose of your older-yet-functional ones? I'm curious. I can always use a better system.

[#2]

Yep, i'm a bit of a packrat, too. I can't bear to simply throw out any of the power cables that have come with my power supplies -- they're perfect and work just fine, I just have no use for them! So in the 'spare parts' drawer they sit, along with USB extension cables, component cables that are still wrapped up, an old headset, some SDRAM... Eventually, I'm going to have to go 'I've really got no use for these, and if I need new ones, I can get them for really cheap.'

Luckily, there've been Hazardous Waste and Electronics Recycling Days here, where you can drop off your goods, new or used or beyond repair, and they'll take care of everything else. I'm a little happier knowing that that old stuff is being recycled, rather than outright tossing it all into a landfill...

[#3]

I guess that's the best compromise, knowing that the stuff will be recycled, rather than simply filling a landfill.

And yeah, I have a box full of power, audio, video, network cables too. Just in case, ya know?

[#4]

Consider packing your used cables and power cords (or anything small and light-weight) in your suitcase the next trip you take to the Dominican Republic or Cuba and donate them to a local who works at your hotel. They will be put to good use.

[#5]

We have just purchased a new washer and dryer and dont know what to do with our old ones. Will the delivery men take the old ones away for us?

[#6]

Where about's do you live?  If you live in Vancouver, the municipality will take old appliances for FREE.  But you need to get it there.

http://vancouver.ca/engsvcs/solidwaste/faq.htm#gar2