Re: Reuse or Recycle Your Old Computer

On 04/02/14 16:42, Glen Turner wrote:

> I’d also be careful when comparing old v new computers that you
> include the entire system, especially if moving from a CRT to LCD
> screen. ...

Are there many CRTs still in use? The computer recycling bins in 
Canberra were full of old LCD screens last year: 
http://blog.tomw.net.au/2013/02/e-waste-collection-working-in-canberra.html

But when I had a look more recently there seemed to be mostly LCDs. New 
LCD displays are more energy efficient than old ones, but the savings 
are much less than moving from a CRT.

One problem with the official recycling scheme in Canberra and some 
other locations, is that there is no one looking to see what could be 
reused: everything goes straight in a bin for recycling.

> The flip side is that old computers can be outstanding value for
> money when used as computers ...  monochrome laser printer ...

Free old equipment good value. My last two laser printers I picked up 
discarded in the street, complete with toner. But keep in mind that a 
laser printer uses a lot of power and if you only use them occasionally, 
turn them off at the wall.


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