Bring out your dead! Dead computers, that is.

If you can't use 'em for file servers, resurrect them as Linux boxes [link1, link2, link3] or turn 'em into MP3 jukeboxes, it's time to ditch 'em -- ecologically -- and eDay's the day to do it.

Last year more than 87,000 items ended up at eDay collection depots around the country. That's almost 1,000 tonnes of electronic waste -- most of which was subsequently recycled. eDay returns this Saturday, September 12 2009 so it's time to drag out your unused electronics.

(For details of your nearest drop-off point, click here.)


What can be disposed of:

• computer hardware
• monitors
• networking equipment (e.g. modems, routers, hubs)
• scanners
• keyboards, mice, speakers
• laptops
• printers
• game consoles
• toner and ink jet cartridges
• mobile phones
• fax machines
• digital cameras

What can't be disposed of:
Basically anything not related to computers or mobile phones. Thss includes:

• televisions
• radios
• stereos
• DVD players, video recorders
• other home appliances
• furniture
• software

What to do before eDay:

• Wipe all data from your computer's hard drive and remove any removable media such as floppy disks or PC cards. (See here and here.)

• Ensure that your mobile is disconnected by your service provider and that contacts and other stored information are erased from the phone's memory. Also remove your phone's SIM card if it has one.