Many hi-tech devices now come with many accessories, components, and specific parts. For instance, there are many computer related devices that over time will require new parts. One such part is a toner cartridge for a computer printer. New toner cartridges can be quite expensive, especially if one goes through them often. When looking to save some money, many people will sell their used toner cartridges. Below are a number of ways you can sell used toner cartridges:
1.) You can sell your used toner cartridges by taking them to an office supply store and switch them for a discount on a new toner cartridge. For instance, Staples will provide a discount for each toner cartridge that is exchanged. One also has the option to mail the used cartridge back to the company and you will be sent a credit discount for a new toner cartridge. There are many office supply chains and manufacturers of the cartridges that provide this service. You can also exchange your toner cartridge for store credit. Some stores will allow twenty five used toner cartridges each day and in return they will give store credit on any item. Staples gives credit for HP, Lexmark, Dell, or Kodak cartridges FedEx Kinkos, Walgreen’s, and Best Buy also have recycling toner cartridge programs. Many toner manufacturers have an agreement with stores which permits the store to buy used toner cartridges.
2.) Another way of selling used toner cartridges is selling the cartridges from an online purchaser. There are a number of online companies that buy used printer toner cartridges. You can get approximately $20.00 for a high end cartridge and around $3 for a low-end cartridge. To locate one of these online toner cartridge buyers, you can just do a search engine search to find one. It is important to sell to a reputable online buyer so you do not get paid less than what the cartridge is worth.
3.) You can also use your toner cartridge for raising funds for community organizations, school groups, and charity. These groups will hold recycling events to collect and sell used cartridges. There are a number of office supply stores that participate in these programs such as Office Depot, Staples, and OfficeMax...etc.
4.) The United States Postal Service now has a program where one can take in their used toner cartridge for recycling. You can get a prepaid envelope where you put in the old cartridge and mail it back to an electronics recycling company.
There is a big and lucrative industry created around purchasing old toner cartridges and reselling them. Old cartridges are simply refurbished, and then refilled with the right toner, and resold. Cartridges with a built-in print head will usually be worth more than other toner cartridges. For other brands you should look on the box or instructions that come with the cartridge. The best thing about selling your printer toner cartridge is not only the extra bit of money you will receive, but you will be doing something good for the environment.
Where Can You Sell Your Used Toner Cartridges?
How Can I Be Sure My Old IT Equipment is Disposed of Securely and Properly?
With the rapidly improving and expanding technology of today, people tend to replace their personal computers on a regular basis in order to keep up with the latest advancements. It's extremely important to dispose of old IT equipment securely and properly not only to protect your sensitive information, but to protect the precious environment as well.
In early 2007 the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations came into effect in an attempt to minimise the millions of tonnes of electronic waste, or e-waste as it's often called, that is disposed of each year in just the UK alone. You can read about those laws at the Environment Agency's website.
All computer equipment contains hazardous materials and keeping e-waste out of landfills should be high on the list of priorities of government officials and private citizens everywhere.
Mercury, lead, cadmium and hexavalent chromium, not to mention glass and plastic, all of which have a negative impact on the environment, are just some of what's found lurking inside our computers, monitors, hard drives, circuit boards, printers, scanners, fax machines, and telephones.
Many areas now have recyclers who will take old IT equipment as well as organisations who specialise in disposing of computers and other hardware in an environmentally responsible way. Other places like not-for-profit organisations will dismantle the computers and salvage whatever parts possible or perhaps make repairs and then resell the equipment. Before donating a computer, make it a point to call in advance, especially if the equipment is obsolete or in disrepair, to see if there's a need first.
You can find a list of computer recyclers and refurbishers in the UK through a website called ‘Waste Online’
Before using an e-waste disposal service check to see that the company complies with the WEEE regulations and file your written proof that your IT equipment was indeed disposed of securely and properly. And, if you're donating to a charitable organisation, see that the appropriate security measures will be taken with your equipment to prevent unauthorised access, now a legal requirement thanks to the Data Protection Act of 1998.
Also, some computer manufacturers now offer recycling programs at low or no cost and information about these services, if available, can be found on their respective websites. Some computer makers offer credits toward the purchase of new equipment while others provide the service free of charge.
Erasing the Hard Drive Before Getting Rid of Your Computer
Most of us have done banking or ordered something online using our bank accounts or credit cards and many of us keep track of our finances with files saved on our home computers. Be aware that reformatting the computer's hard drive is not enough to ensure that all of your data will really be removed from the machine.
There are software programs available designed specifically for this purpose and there's always the alternative of physically destroying the computer's hard drive making it unreadable, which of course, won't be an option if you're donating the computer to an organisation for some purpose.
However you ultimately decide to dispose of your useless IT equipment it is imperative to be absolutely certain that none of your information will wind up in the hands of a criminal.
How to Dispose of a Multifunction Printer
As with most electrical equipment, your printer is full of plastics, components and potentially hazardous materials. Therefore, when it comes to disposing of your old multifunction printer it would be irresponsible to simply throw it in the bin and consign it to landfill purgatory.
What you really need to do is recycle it. Okay, recycling might take a little more effort, it may even cost you a few pounds, but ultimately it is both a legal and moral obligation that we all share to ensure that we dispose of consumables in a way that is protective of our environment.
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment directive (WEEE) came into effect back in January 2007. It governs the safe disposal of electrical items and is managed by the Environment Agency in the UK. The WEEE directive ensures that manufacturers conform with basic disposal and recycling codes, but they also extend to businesses and even homeowners.
Essentially it’s just about common sense. If you have something that isn’t biodegradable and could be harmful, then you have to find a responsible way of disposing of it. To conform with the WEEE directive, your business or household multifunction laser printer needs to be properly recycled by a certified agency. Again, this might sound like a hassle, but it really shouldn’t be.
In fact most printer manufacturers will provide recycling advice and information when you purchase a new model or contact them regarding your current device. This may even include a low-price or even complementary disposal service; although of course this will vary across the various manufacturers and models.
To properly dispose of a printer you also need to ensure that it is free from any additional consumables, which includes ink cartridges. If your ink cartridge or toner is empty you should also recycle this separately. Most cartridges come with recycling instructions, which often include an address or envelope, so you shouldn’t have too many issues when it comes to getting rid of your superfluous ink.
Of course if your ink cartridge is still partially full, you may also need to look into either finding a company that disposes of ink safely or transferring the cartridge to your new/remaining printer.
The cost of disposing with your old multi-function printer is being driven down all the time. In fact you may even find that some services, including specialist electrical recycling sites, will take your it for free. There are companies who will collect the redundant printers, along with most other electronic devices; these will obviously charge a premium rate for their services, but it will certainly remove much of the inconvenience associated with recycling.
The recycling process can take many forms. Some components can often be salvaged and reused in models here or elsewhere in the world, helping to ensure wastage is kept to a minimum. Others elements though, such as your plastic casing, will be melted down and used to remould other devices in the future. It is by no means a simple process, but it is an essential one if we are to safeguard natural resources and ensure our landfills aren’t overloaded with hazardous materials that will never be broken down.
So when you buy a new multi-function printer for your home or business, always keep in mind how you will dispose of your old equipment. The days of simply throwing them in a skip or including it within your daily rubbish collection are long gone. The WEEE directive has ensured that we are all accountable for the disposal of all the electronics that we purchase, helping to ensure a planet that is free from huge piles of unwanted consumables.
Discover Ways To Extend Your Computer's Capabilities
Once your computer knowledge and confidence grows, you will be eager to expand your personal computer's capabilities. A wide range of devices is available that will make working with your computer even more interesting and enjoyable. Here are some extras that can be collected over time:
- Modems. One very important aspect of modems is never try to buy a used one. Because, how are you going to know if its actually going to work, and it could be also missing alot of instructions for installation and might not have the driver software CD that comes with it. A new modem will be more money, but the money you save getting a used modem is not worth the trouble when trying to install right or may wear out much sooner than a new one. Basically, there are two main types of modems. Internal modems are installed inside the system unit in one of the spare slots at the back. External modems sit outside your computer, on your desk, and plug into one of the serial ports at the back of the system unit. Once you have a model, you can connect to the internet, send emails, and send and receive faxes, using your computer as a fax machine.
- Scanners. The basic operation of the scanner is to read the image of the object placed on the scanner pane of optical reading feature which converts the analog code into digitized code. A scanner will transform your paper images and photo prints into graphic files that you can then edit and use on your PC. Flatbed scanners, in which you lay your images face down and a light-sensitive device passes undernealth, are the most versatile and affordable type of scanner. Buy a scanner with a resolution capability of atleast 300dpi.
- Digital Cameras. Digital cameras look similar to ordinary cameras, but take photographs without using any film. The picture is stored as a graphic file that you can transfer directly to your computer through a connection cord. Good quality cameras are quite expensive, but it's worth remembering that you won't need to buy film and get it developed, and you don't need a scanner. Care should be taken while transferring the files from your camera to your computers. Improper transferring may lead to short circuiting of your digital camera. Never try to disconnect your device while transferring files from your digital cameras to the computers.
- Joysticks. If you're a fan of computer games, a joystick is essential. Many home PCs come with their own joystick, but you can also buy joystick with extra feature buttons and better grips. They plug into a port in your system unit. The best joysticks are those that also provide feedback. It's also possible to buy steering wheels and pedals for driving games. If you have the opportunity, you should try to use the joystick in-store before purchasing it. If the joystick is uncomfortable or you are having to use too much force when maneuvering it in different directions, you should probably pass on that model of joystick because it may cause unnecessary wrist strain and leave you unable to have the fast reaction time that new computer age games require.
- Video Cameras. If you mount a small video camera on the top of your computer, you can conduct video conferences. These small cameras are also used for the WebCam sites on the internet. Bear in mind that video conferencing require a powerful PC, and without special high-speed phone lines, the picture can be jerky and the sound can stutter. Looking for the best video cameras often is successfully done with a few simple steps. Know your options in the marketplace and know what features will be important to you. Make sure you have a set price range. Take a look at the reviews as well as talking to people who have purchased and understand how to use a video camera.
- Microphones. They are available for common computer usage like recording a narration. Many computers come with a microphone in the accessories that come with it. Your accessory microphone may be alright to begin with but it probably will not be professional quality but should be ok because it all depends on what your needs are. But it is now possible to use a microphone in conjunction with speech-recognition software. This means that you don't have to type in anything you just have to say it. Unless you spend a long time teaching it to recognize your voice, it may give poor results.
Your added devices can also be bought to make the most of existing on-screen entertainments. The new generation of joysticks for instance, really take game playing to a new dimension. Like I mentioned earlier, you can have all these over time but you don't need to buy everything on the same shopping trip.
Windows 7 Review - Window to the Future
Windows 7 review is a must read subject to understand the best of it as Microsoft has always come with something astonishing as well as beneficial. There are various aspects to be considered as reviews such as:
Installation - Windows 7 is identical to the Windows Vistas and navigates through few questions about the place the user wants it installed and lets the grind out. It takes nearly 17 minutes to finish the question period to this impressive feat.
Desktop - The operating system retains glassy window style, and other holdovers that the users can notice immediately such that there is a change in the taskbar, as it is slightly taller now accommodating squared off icons. Every program that is open gets an icon, yet the user can pick favorites to suspend to the bottom, even if it is not in use such that it looks identical to the earlier Windows. However, this assists in reducing the visual untidiness coming from the program titles of the taskbar, and it also allows turning to the icon-based system by shrinking the taskbar to its original size.
New and improved taskbar - Microsoft has introduced new Aero Peek features for any necessary details to be filled, and hovering over an icon will result in showing separate thumbnails for every window within the program with labels above them. This takes the user one step ahead as it conceals other windows and shows only one question that the user is dealing with. Right-clicking on the taskbar icons facilitates in getting Jump Lists and these are shortcut lists relating to these programs.
Snap feature - The snap feature turned to be an unexpectedly smart addition to the Windows 7 as it facilitates grabbing any window and dragging it to the left or right edge such that it automatically resizes to half the screen. This makes browsing easy on two screens such that they can be compared at a stretch and typed in word next using a browser window, and so on. On completion of work, merely dragging the window to a position brings it to the old size, and these snapping options is akin to the freeware AllSnap offers.
Windows 7 new feature - The feature of Windows desktop allows working easier as the new personalization menu brings an array of built-in themes, besides switching them by screensavers, swapping backgrounds and determining its opacity using a slider. Hard drives, webcams and thumb drives will be detected automatically and the pane alongside will show connected items such as keyboards, mouse and Wi-Fi adapters.
Game Time - The real Microsoft test is when it wins over gamers, and is not disappointing as it has come with improved gaming performances. Running games such as MotoGP and Crysis on Windows 7 encounters no issues, and even with maxed settings everything goes smoothly without any hiccup.
Some Hiccups - The dazzling experience of Windows 7 is amazing, yet few zingers are that on changing themes, the taskbar icons stopped working until the windows were reopened. The pro includes painless installation, fast boot times, excellent gaming performance and clutter free taskbar, while the cons are that some users crave for more customization. Such minor inconveniences are felt, but nothing significant is observed to diminish the experience of installing Windows 7.
How To Extend The Use Of Your Computer With Extra Programs
When you bought your personal computer, it came loaded with a selection of software. Each of these contains a number of programs that allow you to perform a range of functions, such as word processing and spreadsheet work. The software that comes with your computer is known as bundled software. Although this bundled software allows you to perform many different tasks on your personal computer, chances are you will eventually want to use more specialized or advanced software.
Let's say you buy software online, it is imperative that you make sure what kind of merchandise you'll actually be getting. You need to find out if you are dealing with some shady computer organization that's trying to unload copied programs on you? Then, when you shop, check the software package to determine how much RAM and hard disk space the program requires as well as whether it will run on your computer. You will also want to use virus checking software to keep your computer free from viruses.
When checking your requirements, you'll want to make sure the software you buy is completely compatible. I mean check to see how much RAM (random access memory) your computer has and how much storage space is available on the hard drive. By ensuring you have the correct amount of memory for your installed operating system then you can have a speedy computer. Even adding 256MB over the stated minimum requirements will reap instant dividends.
To check the available disk space, double click on My Computer, then click once on C drive to highlight it. Go to the File menu and click on Properties. To see how much RAM is built into your personal computer, go to the Start menu, select Settings, then Control Panel, then double click on System.
You can also ensure that your computer RAM is working at its full potential by taking care to perform maintenance tasks. A great task is to regularly empty the recycle bin. Make sure you delete programs that you dont use because it does help slow your computer down.
Most importantly, whenever you are removing software from your computer, you should not just start deleting things that you think do not belong on your computer. Doing this will put your other working programs at risk. So, if you want to properly remove programs from your computer, you should use the Remove programs applet that is built into windows. This will allow you to easily see what programs you currently have installed and then you will be able to automatically remove these.
Computer stores are good places to start looking for software but there are other sources that will save you money. You can look on the internet for downloadable software, then follow the on screen instructions. You can look at personal computer magazines because some will offer demonstration or shareware version. Lastly, you have mail order because some vendors offer prices that are often lower than retail stores.
Just remember, going online does not have to be expensive. Many of the things you want to do with your computer should not cost you a lot of extra money or extra hassle. The money you spend on basic extra programs will allow your computer to be a very valuable tool for you and your family.
Should I Replace Or Upgrade My Personal Computer
If your PC is getting a bit long in the tooth, the temptation to replace it with a newer model is always there. The very latest in top-spec laptops, Notebooks, PCs and computers are constantly advertised and the pressure to buy the latest model is intense. The price of new technology is far lower proportionally than when computers first became a common household addition, but do you actually need to replace your entire system or can you save yourself time and money by upgrading what you already have?
The question you have to ask yourself is: does my current computer do everything I want it to do? If the answer to that is yes, then your current system will probably be sufficient for some time to come. But if you are determined to upgrade, then you don't have to replace the entire system to enhance its capabilities - you can upgrade areas of your existing hardware for a fraction of the cost.
The monitor
Old computer monitors are cumbersome, energy-greedy and have a limited lifespan. The easiest way to upgrade your set-up is to start with the monitor. Flat screens take up far less desk space, are higher resolution (meaning far better picture quality) and modern LED screens are also much more energy efficient. The old monitor can be consigned to the recycling centre and a sleeker, more efficient flat screen is the quickest way to upgrade your set-up for a fraction of the cost of a new computer system.
RAM memory
The more RAM you have, the faster your PC will run. Applications use the RAM memory to run and the operating system uses it to ensure that applications work correctly. RAM is an add-on that is simple to install and relatively cheap. However, different machines take different types of RAM so contact a manufacturer and they will be able to tell you which RAM you need simply from the make and model number of your PC.
Storage
Hard disks have a finite amount of storage space available, so updating your storage system can free up your computer's hard drive. A remote hard drive is also an excellent way of keeping all your data and information safe, enabling you to restore your computer to full working capacity in the event of a catastrophic hard drive failure such as a virus attack or mother-board problem. Files such as films, music and other downloads take up a great deal of storage space so downloading these onto a remote hard drive is a great way of freeing up your computer's disk space and helping it to run more quickly.
Graphics
Graphics cards are easily replaced. These plug-ins power the display and the faster and more capable your graphics card, the sharper and clearer your images will be. This is particularly useful if you are into computer games, as the graphics in modern games are exceptionally sophisticated and require high-resolution graphics.
Processing power
Your processor is the heart of the computer. This determines the speed that your computer operates at and replacing it can be a complex task, so only attempt it if you are absolutely sure you know what you are doing. You may also need some specialist equipment and to be sure that the processor you wish to insert is compatible with your system so if you do decide to upgrade your processing power, it is best to talk to an IT expert first.
You can also upgrade your current PC by adding USB ports, network cards or modems is all relatively easy to do by simply opening the casing of the unit and inserting the cards into the PCI slots. Upgrading your computer is one of the simplest and cheapest ways of increasing the speed and capability of your computer without having to throw the entire system away and buy a new one.
There is also the problem that your new computer may have trouble recognising all of your old data from your previous machine, making data transference difficult and frustrating. So is it better to stick with the devil you know? Modern computers are adaptable and easily upgraded. Whilst you don't always need to be at the cutting edge of technology, it's wise to consider at least one upgrade in every computer's life. If you've reached the limits of your current computer's capacity, then perhaps that is the time to think about finally replacing it for a newer model.
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Keep Your PC Safe - Internet Security for the Home User
As the number of cable modems and Wi-Fi networks increases, Internet security is becoming more of an issue. You may think that your Internet connection is safe from unwelcome and unwanted intrusion by hackers, but there are some things you can do to improve your security levels to stop hackers gaining access to your personal details, bank account numbers and passwords.
The reason that Internet security is becoming more of an issue now is that people are spending longer connected to the Internet. And unless that pathway is protected by high level security, the hackers will have more opportunities to find a way in. Hijacked machines (often known as zombies and forming part of botnets) are valuable to fraudsters and spammers. The trick is to beat the hackers at their own game.
There are three aspects of home Internet protection, sometimes referred to as the 'holy trinity'.
Personal firewall/intrusion detection
These are the firewalls that often come with your operating system. In older operating systems such as Windows 95 and 98, these systems have virtually no inbuilt security. Because these systems have now been superseded by more up to date software, it is advisable that if you are still operating Win95 or 98 to upgrade to a system that is supported by a Microsoft inbuilt firewall.
All versions of Vista, XP and 2000 are still supported by Microsoft and have inclusive firewall protection. For an additional layer of security, external firewall programs can be incorporated into your operating system as simply as downloading any other piece of software. It is advisable to talk to an expert, however, as some firewalls may not be compatible with your operating system and you may encounter run conflicts that could affect other aspects of your system.
The most popular free downloadable firewall is Zone Alarm, although for comprehensive coverage, Zone Alarm Pro is probably a better option. You can also set your Internet security levels to 'high' on your operating system if you are going to be on the Internet for prolonged periods.
Anti-spyware software
Spyware is software that covertly gathers user information through the user's Internet connection without his or her knowledge. That information is then passed to a third party (the hacker or fraudster) and suddenly your secure system isn't quite as secure as you thought it was. There are countless pieces of embedded software (often also known as 'malware') that piggyback onto downloads and install themselves into your operating system. These include BHOs (Browser Helper Objects) which hijack your browser and take it to their 'chosen' site whether you want to go there or not. Although annoying, these don't do any real damage. However, other spyware can count keystrokes and relay these back to hackers who, from this data, can uncover passwords and other information such as account numbers. Anti-spyware software stops this malware from infiltrating your computer and leaving your important information exposed.
Anti-virus software
A virus can devastate a computer. Designed to cause maximum damage to your data, viruses are created to cause mayhem and have no other purpose other than that. Anti-virus software is essential, particularly if you are using the Internet for long periods of time, and the best option is to include a package such as McAfee VirusScan in your operating system. Ensure that you update this program regularly (you will receive prompts from your computer on start-up).
No piece of anti-virus or spyware software can cover all threats, so it's a good idea to keep an eye out for updates and to combine several systems to cover your bases. There are also some things you can do for yourself when online to keep your PC and your personal details safe:
* Never open email attachments if you do not know who the email has come from, or even from friends. This is the easiest way to allow a virus to access your system.
* Avoid downloading files from sites you are not familiar with.
* Ensure that your security protocol is set to 'high' if you are going to be online for any length of time
* No bank will ever ask for your details via email. Any that do are scams and should be immediately deleted without responding and your bank notified of the scam attempt.
* If something looks suspicious (poor spelling, bad graphics), then trust your instincts - it probably is a bogus email or phishing attempt to get access to your personal details
* If you have a wireless network in your home, ensure that it is password protected.
* Never have the same password for all your sites.
With a little thought and preparation, you can keep your home PC safe from outside attacks and your details out of the hands of fraudsters.
Netbook Purchase Tips
Netbook is the novel and hottest craze in portable computing, as lugging a 17`` laptop everywhere can be neatly replaced by buying an ultra portable netbook. Conversely, shopping for a netbook is best by following some buying tips.
Identifying computing needs: This is an immense factor worth considering and needs proper thinking and planning about using the netbook and the related software that you need. This depends on the fact about using it for web surfing or checking email or doing some serious jobs such as video editing or graphic designing. Netbook is appropriate for lower intensive tasks that comprises of web browsing, email checking and replying, besides office applications. A netbook with full size is recommended for jobs that are processor intensive.
Portability features: Carrying a netbook around involves comprehending the size and weight as the main factor. Netbook is available in plenty of sizes, but definitely is tiny and weights less in comparison to the bulky laptops. The portability features certainly is favorable only when the netbook is light in weight and small in size. The battery size and weight also requires to be considered as some power adaptors come heavy and large in size.
Comprehending the storage types: Types of netbook available in the market should be comprehended as it helps in selecting the desired to suit the needs and wants of the buyer. Netbook comes in SSD and HDD storage types such that SSD, the Solid State Drives boot faster, possess withstanding impact and is a bit faster in performance, but is notorious for low storage. Contrarily, HDD, the Hard Disk Drives netbook stores up to 160GB data, but are weaker withstanding impacts in comparison to their counterparts, SSD. Buying a fast netbook with less storage capacity or a netbook offering high capacity, but is slow in booting depends completely on the desire and need of the buyer.
Considering the netbook`s brand: Considering the brand before purchasing is essential as the market today is filled with numerous brands of netbooks. However, good brands such as ASUS certainly carry high repute, and are followed by many more manufacturers of netbook such as Acer, Dell, HP, Lenovo and MSI. These manufacturers vary in their signatures and a buyer should know these details prior to purchase, such as ASUS have small keyboards. It is necessary to know the different brand netbooks as well as their differences, and this can be understood by researching in the internet with patience.
Operating system: Similar to the desktop computers having Mac and Windows as operating system competitors, the netbook has Windows XP and Linux for competition. The netbook models are shipped by different manufacturers with an operating system, and hence every netbook is either featured with a Windows XP or Linux version. However, Linux version netbooks are well-known for their security and stability, while the Windows XP netbooks have gained the topmost popularity. Compatibility of versions is a must and hence a buyer usually opts for Windows XP netbook, as it is tough to switch paradigms facilitating Linux.
Reading reviews: User reviews play a vital role in determining the performance of some netbooks. Manufacturers do not leave any opportunity in hyping their product so that their sales are boosted. But, reading the reviews will assist in knowing the value or the rundown of a netbook model. Reading independent reviews of products offered in online computer magazines and searching the internet for more reviews will give valuable information about a product to be purchased.
Comparison: Settling for a shopping website at the first attempt is not recommended. Comparing prices from minimum three or five netbook sellers is the best before placing the order. Comparison is required as some websites offer the netbooks cheaper as they deal on wholesale orders, while others do the same and sell second hand netbooks. If buying online, make sure the you are dealing with a trusted website.
