Uncommon Cents

I use the term “tossed technology” to refer to items that are tossed in the name of progress even though they may be working. Old computers, CRT monitors, VCRs–these are all examples of items that may be in perfectly fine working order that have been replaced by newer items. As the digital television conversion approaches (or is already there as in many places), what happens with our old equipment?

First, those of you on cable TV are still perfectly fine; there’s no need to change. Secondly, consider getting a digital converter box if you still like your non-digital television set. But if you’re actually getting something else, consider what to do with your old television (or maybe other technological items that are being replaced):

Donate. There may be non-profit organizations such as churches, schools, or thrift stores that will take your hand me downs. This could also result in tax deductible donations which could help your bottom line. You could also “donate” to others that you know, friends, family, or children, which we’ll cover below (I’m sure that my 8 year old niece would be willing to take my current MacBook if I replaced it this year!). Even if you replace the main television in the house with a new digital ready set, it might make a nice addition to a bedroom.

Recycle. Some computer parts are in need of processing in order for them to be disposed of properly–CRTs in particular (this includes CRT televisions as well). See if there’s a local recycling program for some of these.

Sell–or Give Away! Consider eBay, Craigslist, and FreeCycle. Sometimes an item you no longer need is exactly what someone else needs desperately; this might result in a few dollars for you or it might result in good feelings (which is worth more than just a few dollars). In some cases it can be a real thrill for a small child to get someone’s old computer, VCR, or CD player–or a television of their very own.

Keep Using! There are some cases where things can be repurposed or continue to be used; for instance, old computers can be turned into servers or have dedicated uses. The television I had that went unused for over a year replaced my mother’s which died. And sometimes, it’s worth it to just keep using what you’re using–my niece, for instance, has tons of Disney VHS tapes and our VHS player works fine; there’s not a lot of incentive for me to replace those hundreds of dollars of tapes (which were given to us by someone else) with hundreds of dollars of DVDs! My mom’s–formerly my–television is working fine, so there’s no need to replace it either.

There are some things to consider with the digital switchover. Make a responsible and frugal choice when considering what to do.

Tags: Frugality, Social aspects, Taxes, Technology

Trackback URI | Comments RSS