Good place to take old (but working) computer stuff?

Question

I have lots of older, but working, computer items. Cases, mice, keyboards, graphics cards, etc.

I feel like I'm wasting hardware when I throw away a perfectly good 1.6Ghz Dell computer that only needs RAM and a hard-drive (but when the cost of getting that RAM is more than a netbook, etc).

Aside from eBay and Craigslist (yuck), are there any other options to consider?

What are your experiences with them?

Answer 1

donate to local non-profits just getting started or ones that provide systems to those in need

Answer 2

There's an organization that does exactly what you're looking for, called Freegeek - they're based in Portland and seem to have 'chapters' in a number of major cities.

Basically, they take donated computer parts, turn them into working computers, and use them to help out other nonprofit groups that might not have the technical know-how to get a system running from parts.

Answer 3

The problem with most schools/libraries/nonprofits is that they want complete working systems.

Goodwill, believe it or not, will NOT take your stuff.

I know you don't like dealing with Craigslist.. but a quick & dirty solution would be to box everything up and leave it on a street corner or an alley. Post directions on craigslist to your loot. Everything will be gone in 24hrs.

Or you could have a good old fashioned garage sale.

Answer 4

I recently took a lot of old equipment to my daughter's daycare...got it working for them to play old educational CD rom games and they loved it.
Church/Church programs is also another great place.

Answer 5

In my area (Vancouver, BC) we now have a formal recycling program, so I can bring everything to my local bottle depot. Check with your municipality to see if there are any recycling facilities in your area that deal specifically with electronics.