Crack Feed

For the last couple of decades, the rapid advances in computing technology have given rise to a corresponding problem of computers becoming quickly obsolete. These days, any computer that is more than 3 years old will be noticeably slower in its performance than a computer that has been manufactured in the last few months. It has therefore become a fact of life in the information age that computers need to be updated on a regular basis in order to utilize the latest software and communications applications. This in turn has led to the problem of what one should do with the rapidly growing stockpile of old computers and other electronic equipment. A company or individual really has one of 3 choices: 1. Do nothing; 2 Donate or; 3. Recycle. This article will discuss each of the options in turn.

Before looking closely at the issue of computer equipment recycling, it is worthwhile noting why it so important to do something rather than nothing. Latest studies on the subject have concluded that only around 10-15% of old computer equipment is being recycled. The equipment that isn’t being recycled is either being stored, gathering dust on the tops of cupboards or in garages, or even more perniciously is being disposed of in landfills.

Companies that are storing old computing equipment are entertaining a false economy. It is actually more expensive to continue to store old computers than it is to properly dispose of them – when you take into account the cost of storage space, the cost of securing old systems to comply with federal privacy laws and other associated administration costs. There are the also environmental concerns attached to the stockpiling of large quantities of obsolete computers. The systems can break down and leak hazardous materials into the air, soil and groundwater should they catch on fire or be subject to other natural disasters such as a floods.

The larger problem however, lies in disposing of this old computer equipment in a heedless fashion. Computer equipment that isn’t taken care of by an authorized computer recycler is most likely to end up in landfills and become toxic computer waste. A computer is made up of plastic, ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals (lead, cadmium, antimony, beryllium, chromium and mercury), electronic boards (gold, palladium, silver and platinum) and glass – in short, materials (many of which are toxic) which don’t break down naturally. A standard sized cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor contains more than two kilos of lead – the toxicity of which has been well known for centuries.

The best option when dealing with old computer equipment is to either donate it (computer hardware less than 5 years old can generally be donated) or to recycle it.

Individuals who are looking to recycle one or a few items of computer hardware will find that nearly all of the major computer manufacturers – Apple, Dell, Gateway, IBM, Lexmark, Hewlett Packard, Epson, NEC – are running some type of computer recycling program. These programs tend to involve the company taking back your old computer and disposing of it responsibly, at no extra cost to yourself, whenever you purchase a new computer from them.

For companies who are looking to dispose of large volumes of computer hardware (and other types of e-waste) they should really get in contact with an authorized computer recycler. The hallmark of the computer recycler’s business model is that of responsible destruction. They will salvage all useful computer parts before breaking down what’s left, safely removing all hazardous materials in the process. There will usually be a fee charged by these recyclers to accept old computer equipment (particularly when it comes to computer monitors) but the cost of disposal will be significantly less than the cost of not disposing of the computer hardware, both in terms of direct business costs and potential costs to the environment.



By: Scott Salter

About the Author:

Crack Feed

If you are an individual that suffers from severe computer neck pain due to the type of glasses that you wear, you should continue reading this helpful guide. Now, you can successfully eliminate that pain in the neck with computer glasses or a new computer eyeglass attachment! Most individuals that wear no-line progressive lenses in their glasses, trifocals, and even bifocals suffer from some degree of pain due to the way that the head must be adjusted in order to appropriately see the information that is on the computer screen. Here, you will receive information specific to this type of pain, as well as an effective resolution that can be of benefit to you!

The Problem

Many individuals now spend more time on a computer than ever before. Many implement the use of computers for their work, while others perform certain tasks on the computer for personal reasons such as paying bills and entertainment purposes. While technology has now advanced to the point where we can do just about anything with a desktop PC or laptop, our bodies have not changed. Spending any length of time sitting in front of a computer can be detrimental to our bodies. In many instances, our back and neck area may start to tense up due to our method of sitting, as well as the adjustments that we have to make in order to see the screen, and the contents thereof. Luckily, there have been extensive studies that conclude that if one has the right computer glasses, they can not only see better, but they can feel better overall! The problem occurs if the individual sitting in front of the computer does not have the appropriate occupational computer bifocals. This is when the issue of Computer Vision Syndrome may occur.

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Computer Vision Syndrome is a complication that occurs as a natural result of the strain that occurs in the eyes when viewing the screen of your system. It is most common to those who fail to wear appropriate glasses for computer use. It has been found after conclusive studies that those who spend an average of two or more hours working and/or entertaining themselves on a computer experience this eye condition to some level. In addition to this, it has been found that adults and children alike are capable of experiencing this condition. It occurs due to the fact that the eyes have complications setting their focus to the words and symbols on a screen due to the method of creation. Pixels create the words that we see on our computers, and lack the same contrast as words that are written on paper.

What are the Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome?

There are many symptoms associated with Computer Vision Syndrome. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to consider investing in a good pair of computer glasses. The symptoms are as follows:

• Many will experience a burning sensation in the eyes.

• Most individuals experience pain and strain in the area of the neck and shoulders that is highly bothersome.

• The vision may become blurred, and the individual may even notice that they start to see “double”.

• Headaches of varying degrees are a common complaint among those who suffer from eye strain due to the wrong type of glasses.

• Many may start to notice that they are unable to focus as well on their computer screens as they once were able to do.

• Experiencing eyes that feel tired may be common.

If you wear glasses while sitting in front of the computer, and you have noticed that you experience these symptoms, you may suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome. If so, it is a good idea to consider obtaining a pair of occupational computer glasses.

The Solution

The solution for Computer Vision Syndrome is actually quite simple. All it takes is an effective pair of computer glasses! Now, you can visit a doctor and actually receive a prescription for this type of glasses or you can convert your everyday prescription glasses into computer glasses. If you are looking to eliminate the symptoms of computer neck pain, eye strain, and sore eyes, a slip-behind computer lens may be the most effective solution for your issue. There will no longer be a need to tilt your head forward, or back to see through the lenses that you now use on your prescription eye glasses. All you have to do is simply consider computer glasses that can help eliminate that pain in the neck, and all the other symptoms associated with Computer Vision Syndrome!



By: Bill A. Valentine, Ph.D.

About the Author: