Computers can get outdated in a matter of years or even just a few months. If you are the type of person who has that “upgrade itch” inside you, then you probably have a lot of old computer hardware lying around your house.

Getting rid of your computer gadgets can be troublesome and difficult because most of these old hardware may harm the environment if not properly disposed. Good news! You don’t have to dispose most of them since you can reuse them into something useful.

The Old Computer Hardware

Save your old computer hardware. Save the world. Here are the things you can do with them:

1. RAM / Memory Modules. RAM modules are one the most common computer hardware that becomes useless after some time. You may have upgraded or replaced your computer’s RAM or bought a new motherboard that does not support the one you have. Time to for some creativity. You can use these computer tools and turn then into:

• • Key chains. Be it an old SD, DDR, or even a DDR2 RAM module, you can easily make it into a nice geeky key chain you can connect to your bag, car keys, or the key to your apartment. Simply punch a hole with a drill or melt it with a soldering iron to connect it.
  • Geek’s Rulers. You can use these chips as your little ruler. You may want to rip off those bulky IC chips first so that you are left with its PCB. Use a flat screw driver to remove those ICs.

2. Processor. A processor acts as the “brain” of your computer; however, when you upgrade or buy a new computer, these chips can instantly become useless. If you have those Pentium I chips lying around, you can make them into:

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  • Paperweight. Processor chips have tiny pins underneath. To make it into one classy paperweight, get a soft block of wood and carefully hammer it until the chip is embedded.
  • Back scratcher. Remember those tiny pins? Glue a rod on top of the processor with super glue or epoxy and wait until it is fully dry. If your back suddenly itches while using the PC, reach for your geeky back scratcher and scratch that itch away.

3. Mouse. The mouse is one of the most common computer hardware you often replace. Before throwing them away, why not make them into a/an:

• • Ashtray. Simply unscrew the mouse and remove the PCB inside, along with the cord and put it back together. Flip the mouse over and mount it on a piece of wood using super glue or your favorite adhesive and remove the cover of the trackball. You now have a handy ashtray by your side.
  • Pen Holder. Remove the PCB and the cord inside and cut other protruding plastic parts inside. Cut the top bottom part of your mouse using pliers or a electric saw for the hole where you will be putting your pens. Mount it at the side of your monitor or anywhere you want, using a double-sided tape.

4. CRT Monitor. Did you just switch to an energy-efficient LCD monitor? Here is what you can do with your bulky CRT monitor:

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  • Bed for Rover or Kitty. Simply take out the CRT tube and everything else inside. Line the floor with a soft cushion or an old pillow to make it comfortable for your pet. Put it back together and you now have a tech-savvy bed for your little pet.
  • Aquarium. You can also make your old monitor into an aquarium, though it will require a lot of effort and other necessary materials. There are detailed guides that can be found on the Internet if you really want to build one.

Feel free to experiment around by using your creativity. Feel free to suggest other stuff you can do too.