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{{short description|Physical components of a computer}} |
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{{TAFI}} |
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{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2017}} |
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2017}} |
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[[File:PDP-11-M7270.jpg|thumb|upright|[[PDP-11]] CPU board]] |
[[File:PDP-11-M7270.jpg|thumb|upright|[[PDP-11]] CPU board]] |
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'''Computer hardware''' includes the physical, tangible parts or components of a [[computer]], such as the [[computer case| |
'''Computer hardware''' includes the physical, tangible parts or components of a [[computer]], such as the [[computer case|case]]<ref name="PC hardware">{{cite book |title=PC hardware : a beginner's guide |publisher=Osborne/McGraw-Hill |isbn=9780072129908 |pages=21}}</ref>, [[central processing unit]] (CPU), [[Computer monitor|monitor]], [[Computer keyboard|keyboard]], [[computer data storage]], [[graphics card]], [[sound card]], [[Computer speakers|speakers]] and [[motherboard]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Parts of computer |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-vista/parts-of-a-computer |publisher=Microsoft |accessdate=5 December 2013 |url-status=live |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131127145607/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Parts-of-a-computer |archivedate=27 November 2013 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> By contrast, [[software]] is instructions that can be stored and run by hardware. Hardware is so-termed because it is "[[Hardness|hard]]" or rigid with respect to changes or modifications; whereas software is "soft" because it is easy to [[Patch (computing)|update or change]]. Intermediate between software and hardware is "[[firmware]]", which is software that is strongly coupled to the particular hardware of a computer system and thus the most difficult to change but also among the most stable with respect to consistency of interface. The progression from levels of "hardness" to "softness" in [[computer system]]s parallels a progression of [[Abstraction layer|layers of abstraction]] in computing. |
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Hardware is typically directed by the software to execute any command or [[Instruction (computing)|instruction]]. A combination of hardware and software forms a usable [[computing]] system, although [[Digital electronics|other systems]] exist with only hardware components. |
Hardware is typically directed by the software to execute any command or [[Instruction (computing)|instruction]]. A combination of hardware and software forms a usable [[computing]] system, although [[Digital electronics|other systems]] exist with only hardware components. |
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[[File:Computer from inside 018.jpg|thumb|Inside a custom-built computer: power supply at the bottom has its own cooling fan]] |
[[File:Computer from inside 018.jpg|thumb|Inside a custom-built computer: power supply at the bottom has its own cooling fan]] |
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The [[personal computer]], also known as the PC, is one of the most common types of computer due to its versatility and relatively low price. [[ |
The [[personal computer]], also known as the PC, is one of the most common types of computer due to its versatility and relatively low price. Most personal computers possess a [[Computer monitor|monitor]], a [[Computer keyboard|keyboard]], a [[Mouse (computing)|mouse]], and a [[computer case]]. The computer case encloses and holds all of the necessary hardware required to store and process data on the computer. The motherboard ensures that all other inner computer hardware communicates with each other. The CPU executes instructions for running computer programs. RAM is responsible for the temporary storage of data while the computer operates. |
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[[Laptop]]s are designed for portability and are generally very similar to PCs,<ref name="PC hardware" /> although they may use lower-power or reduced size components, thus lower performance for a given price point.<ref name="desktopvslaptopcomputer">{{Cite web |url=https://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch001399.htm |title=Desktop computer vs. Laptop computer |date=2019-12-30 |website=www.computerhope.com |access-date=2020-01-15}}</ref> Due to their portability, all units of computer hardware in a laptop are integrated within the laptop's computer case. The monitor is found in the upper cover of the laptop, and it and the laptop itself can be secured by closing the cover. Instead of a mouse, laptops usually may have a [[trackpad]] attached below the in-built keyboard. |
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====Case==== |
====Case==== |
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Components directly attached to or to part of the motherboard include: |
Components directly attached to or to part of the motherboard include: |
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* The |
* The [[central processing unit|CPU]] (central processing unit), which performs most of the calculations which enable a computer to function, and is referred to as the brain of the computer which get a hold of program instruction from [[random-access memory]] (RAM), interprets and processes it and then send it backs to computer result so that the relevant components can carry out the instructions. The CPU is a [[microprocessor]], which is [[semiconductor device fabrication|fabricated]] on a [[metal–oxide–semiconductor]] (MOS) [[integrated circuit]] (IC) chip. It is usually [[CPU cooling|cooled]] by a heat sink and fan, or water-cooling system. Most newer CPU includes an on-die [[graphics processing unit]] (GPU). The [[clock speed]] of CPU governs how fast it executes instructions and is measured in GHz; typical values lie between 1 GHz and 5 GHz. Many modern computers have the option to overclock the CPU which enhances performance at the expense of greater thermal output and thus a need for improved cooling. |
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* The |
* The [[chipset]], which includes the [[Northbridge (computing)|north bridge]], mediates communication between the CPU and the other components of the system, including main memory; as well as [[Southbridge (computing)|south bridge]], which is connected to the north bridge, and supports auxiliary interfaces and buses; and, finally, a [[Super I/O]] chip, connected through the south bridge, which supports the slowest and most legacy components like [[serial port]]s, [[hardware monitoring]] and [[fan control]]. |
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* |
*[[Random-access memory]] (RAM), which stores the code and data that are being actively accessed by the CPU. For example, when a web browser is opened on the computer it takes up memory; this is stored in the RAM until the web browser is closed. It is typically a type of [[dynamic RAM]] (DRAM), such as [[synchronous DRAM]] (SDRAM), where [[MOS memory]] chips store data on [[memory cell (computing)|memory cells]] consisting of MOSFETs and [[MOS capacitor]]s. RAM usually comes on [[dual in-line memory module]]s (DIMMs) in the sizes of 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB, but can be much larger. |
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* |
*[[Read-only memory]] (ROM), which stores the [[BIOS]] that runs when the computer is powered on or otherwise begins execution, a process known as [[Bootstrapping (computing)|Bootstrapping]], or "[[booting]]" or "booting up". The ROM is typically a [[nonvolatile BIOS memory]] chip, which stores data on [[floating-gate MOSFET]] memory cells. |
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** The |
** The [[BIOS]] (Basic Input Output System) includes boot [[firmware]] and power management firmware. Newer motherboards use [[Unified Extensible Firmware Interface]] (UEFI) instead of BIOS. |
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* |
*[[Bus (computing)|Buses]] that connect the CPU to various internal components and to expand cards for graphics and sound. |
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* The |
* The [[CMOS]] (complementary MOS) [[electric battery|battery]], which powers the [[CMOS memory]] for date and time in the BIOS chip. This battery is generally a [[watch battery]]. |
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* The |
* The [[video card]] (also known as the graphics card), which processes computer graphics. More powerful graphics cards are better suited to handle strenuous tasks, such as playing intensive [[video games]] or running [[computer graphics]] software. A video card contains a [[graphics processing unit]] (GPU) and [[video memory]] (typically a type of [[SDRAM]]), both fabricated on [[MOS integrated circuit]] (MOS IC) chips. |
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* |
*[[Power MOSFET]]s make up the [[voltage regulator module]] (VRM), which controls how much [[voltage]] other hardware components receive.<ref name="tomshardware"/> |
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====Expansion cards==== |
====Expansion cards==== |
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[[Input device|Input]] and [[Output device|output]] devices are typically housed externally to the main computer chassis. The following are either standard or very common to many computer systems. |
[[Input device|Input]] and [[Output device|output]] devices are typically housed externally to the main computer chassis. The following are either standard or very common to many computer systems. |
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=====Input===== |
=====Input device===== |
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[[Input devices]] allow the user to enter information into the system, or control its operation. Most personal computers have a [[Mouse (computing)|mouse]] and [[Keyboard (computing)|keyboard]], but laptop systems typically use a [[touchpad]] instead of a mouse. Other input devices include [[webcam]]s, [[microphone]]s, [[joystick]]s, and [[image scanner]]s. |
[[Input devices]] allow the user to enter information into the system, or control its operation. Most personal computers have a [[Mouse (computing)|mouse]] and [[Keyboard (computing)|keyboard]], but laptop systems typically use a [[touchpad]] instead of a mouse. Other input devices include [[webcam]]s, [[microphone]]s, [[joystick]]s, and [[image scanner]]s. |
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=====Output device===== |
=====Output device===== |
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[[Output device]]s display |
[[Output device]]s are designed around the senses of human beings. For example, monitors display text that can be read, speakers produce sound that can be heard<ref>{{cite book |title=PC hardware : a beginner's guide |date=2001 |publisher=Osborne/McGraw-Hill |isbn=9780072129908 |pages=20}}</ref>. Such devices could include [[Printer (computing)|printer]]s, [[Computer speaker|speakers]], [[Computer monitor|monitors]] or a [[Braille embosser]]. |
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===Mainframe computer=== |
===Mainframe computer=== |
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{{Main|Minicomputer}} |
{{Main|Minicomputer}} |
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In the 1960s and 1970s, more and more departments started to use cheaper and dedicated systems for specific purposes like [[process control]] and [[laboratory automation]]. A '''minicomputer''', or colloquially '''mini''', is a class of smaller [[computer]]s that was developed in the mid-1960's<ref>{{cite book|editor-last1=Henderson|editor-first1=Rebecca M.|editor-last2=Newell|editor-first2=Richard G.|title=Accelerating energy innovation : insights from multiple sectors|date=2011|publisher=University of Chicago Press|location=Chicago|isbn=978-0226326832|page=180}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Huang|first1=Han-Way|title=The atme AVR microcontroller : MEGA and XMEGA in assembly and C|date=2014|publisher=Delmar Cengage Learning|location=Australia ; United Kingdom|isbn=978-1133607298|page=4}}</ref> and sold for much less than [[Mainframe computer|mainframe]]<ref>{{cite book|last1=Estabrooks|first1=Maurice|title=Electronic technology, corporate strategy, and world transformation |url=https://archive.org/details/electronictechno0000esta |url-access=registration|date=1995|publisher=Quorum Books|location=Westport, Conn.|isbn=0899309690|page=[https://archive.org/details/electronictechno0000esta/page/53 53]}}</ref> and mid-size computers from [[IBM]] and its direct competitors. |
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In the 1960s and 1970s, more and more departments started to use cheaper and dedicated systems for specific purposes like [[process control]] and [[laboratory automation]]. |
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===Supercomputer=== |
===Supercomputer=== |
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==Hardware upgrade== |
==Hardware upgrade== |
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When using computer hardware, an [[upgrade]] means adding new hardware to a computer that improves its performance, adds capacity or new features. For example, a user could perform a hardware upgrade to replace the [[hard drive]] with a [[SSD]] to get a boost in performance or increase the number of files that may be stored. Also, the user could increase the RAM so the computer may run more smoothly. The user could add a [[USB 3.0]] [[expansion card]] to fully use USB 3.0 devices, or could upgrade the [[GPU]] for extra rendering power. Performing such hardware upgrades may be necessary for older computers to meet a programs' system requirements. |
When using computer hardware, an [[upgrade]] means adding new hardware to a computer that improves its performance, adds capacity or new features. For example, a user could perform a hardware upgrade to replace the [[hard drive]] with a faster one or an [[SSD]] to get a boost in performance or increase the number of files that may be stored. Also, the user could increase the RAM so the computer may run more smoothly. The user could add a [[USB 3.0]] [[expansion card]] to fully use USB 3.0 devices, or could upgrade the [[GPU]] for extra rendering power. Performing such hardware upgrades may be necessary for older computers to meet a programs' system requirements. |
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==Sales== |
==Sales== |
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Global revenue from computer hardware in 2016 reached 408 billion Euros.<ref>{{cite web |title=Global revenue from computer hardware from 2005 to 2016 |url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/268633/worldwide-revenue-from-computer-hardware-since-2005/ |website=Statista |accessdate=15 January 2020}}</ref> |
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{{Update section|date=September 2018}} |
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For the third consecutive year, U.S. business-to-business channel sales (sales through distributors and commercial resellers) increased, ending up in 2013 at nearly 6 percent at $61.7 billion. The growth was the fastest sales increase since the end of the recession. Sales growth accelerated in the second half of the year peaking in fourth quarter with a 6.956 percent increase over the fourth quarter of 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.npd.com/wps/portal/npd/us/news/press-releases/us-b2bchannel-sales-reach-nearly-62-billion-in-2013-according-to-the-npd-group/|title=US B2B Channel sales reach nearly $62 Billion in 2013, According to The NPD Group|publisher=NPD Group|date=4 February 2014|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808050253/https://www.npd.com/wps/portal/npd/us/news/press-releases/us-b2bchannel-sales-reach-nearly-62-billion-in-2013-according-to-the-npd-group/|archivedate=8 August 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref> |
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==Recycling== |
==Recycling== |
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{{main|Computer recycling}} |
{{main|Computer recycling}} |
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{{globalize|section|USA|date=January 2020}} |
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[[File:Re-computer.svg| |
[[File:Re-computer.svg|150px|right]] |
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Because computer parts contain [[hazard]]ous materials, there is a growing movement to recycle old and outdated parts.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-recycle-your-old-computer/|title=How to recycle your old computer|date=2016-12-18|work=Digital Trends|access-date=2017-04-18|language=en-US|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417055533/http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-recycle-your-old-computer/|archivedate=17 April 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Computer hardware contain dangerous chemicals such as: lead, mercury, nickel, and cadmium. According to the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|EPA]] these e-wastes have a harmful effect on the [[Natural environment|environment]] unless they are disposed of properly. Making hardware requires energy, and [[recycling]] parts will reduce air [[pollution]], water pollution, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newtechrecycling.com/disposal/computer-recycling/computer-recycling.html|title=Newtech Recycling Specializes in Computer Disposal, Laptop Disposal, Desktop Disposal Mainframe Disposal and Server Disposal|last=Inc|first=Chris Keenan - Newtech Recycling|website=www.newtechrecycling.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329142805/https://www.newtechrecycling.com/disposal/computer-recycling/computer-recycling.html|archive-date=29 March 2017|url-status=live|access-date=2017-04-18|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Disposing unauthorized computer equipment is in fact illegal. Legislation makes it mandatory to [[Recycling|recycle]] computers through the [[government]] approved facilities. Recycling a computer can be made easier by taking out certain reusable parts. For example, the [[Random-access memory|RAM]], DVD drive, the [[Graphics hardware|graphics card]], [[Hard disk drive|hard drive]] or [[Solid-state drive|SSD]], and other similar removable parts can be reused. |
Because computer parts contain [[hazard]]ous materials, there is a growing movement to recycle old and outdated parts.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-recycle-your-old-computer/|title=How to recycle your old computer|date=2016-12-18|work=Digital Trends|access-date=2017-04-18|language=en-US|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417055533/http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-recycle-your-old-computer/|archivedate=17 April 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Computer hardware contain dangerous chemicals such as: lead, mercury, nickel, and cadmium. According to the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|EPA]] these e-wastes have a harmful effect on the [[Natural environment|environment]] unless they are disposed of properly. Making hardware requires energy, and [[recycling]] parts will reduce air [[pollution]], water pollution, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newtechrecycling.com/disposal/computer-recycling/computer-recycling.html|title=Newtech Recycling Specializes in Computer Disposal, Laptop Disposal, Desktop Disposal Mainframe Disposal and Server Disposal|last=Inc|first=Chris Keenan - Newtech Recycling|website=www.newtechrecycling.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329142805/https://www.newtechrecycling.com/disposal/computer-recycling/computer-recycling.html|archive-date=29 March 2017|url-status=live|access-date=2017-04-18|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Disposing unauthorized computer equipment is in fact illegal. Legislation makes it mandatory to [[Recycling|recycle]] computers through the [[government]] approved facilities. Recycling a computer can be made easier by taking out certain reusable parts. For example, the [[Random-access memory|RAM]], DVD drive, the [[Graphics hardware|graphics card]], [[Hard disk drive|hard drive]] or [[Solid-state drive|SSD]], and other similar removable parts can be reused. |
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Many materials used in computer hardware can be recovered by recycling for use in future production. Reuse of [[tin]], [[silicon]], [[iron]], [[aluminium]], and a variety of [[plastics]] that are present in bulk in computers or other electronics can reduce the costs of constructing new systems. Components frequently contain [[copper]], [[gold]], [[tantalum]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.raci.org.au/document/item/488|title=TANTALUM|last=Robert-Tissot|first=Sarah|date=2011|website=Royal Australian Chemical instatute|access-date=March 3, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/niobium/mcs-2019-tanta.pdf|title=TANTALUM|last=Padilla|first=Abraham|date=February 2019|website=United states geological survey|access-date=March 3, 2019}}</ref> [[silver]], [[platinum]], [[palladium]], and [[lead]] as well as other valuable materials suitable for reclamation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/fs060-01/fs060-01.pdf|title=Obsolete Computers, "Gold Mine," or High-Tech Trash? Resource Recovery from Recycling|last=Bleiwas|first=D|date=July 2001|website=USGS|access-date=March 4, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://info.mayermetals.com/blog/did-you-know-your-computer-contains-precious-metals|title=Did you know your computer contains precious metals?|last=Lubell|first=Ilene|website=info.mayermetals.com|language=en|access-date=2019-03-04}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thebalancesmb.com/electronic-devices-source-of-metals-for-recyclers-2877986|title=Electronic Devices a Rich Source of Precious Metals for Recyclers|last=LeBlanc|first=Rick|website=The Balance Small Business|language=en|access-date=2019-03-04}}</ref> |
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===Toxic computer components=== |
===Toxic computer components=== |
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According to the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] only around 15% of the [[e-waste]] actually is recycled. When e-waste byproducts leach into groundwater, are burned, or get mishandled during recycling, it causes harm. Health problems associated with such toxins include impaired mental development, cancer, and damage to the lungs, liver, and kidneys.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.electronicstakeback.com/2015/05/28/whats-going-on-with-electronic-waste/|title=What's Going On with Electronic Waste? – Electronics TakeBack Coalition|access-date=2017-04-26|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427103038/http://www.electronicstakeback.com/2015/05/28/whats-going-on-with-electronic-waste/|archivedate=27 April 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> That's why even wires have to be recycled. Different companies have different techniques to recycle a wire. The most popular one is the grinder that separates the copper wires from the plastic/rubber casing. When the processes are done there are two different piles left; one containing the copper powder, and the other containing plastic/rubber pieces.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.all-recycling-facts.com/wire-recycling.html|title=Wire Recycling|work=All-Recycling-Facts.com|access-date=2017-05-05|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170710232319/http://www.all-recycling-facts.com/wire-recycling.html|archivedate=10 July 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Computer monitors, [[Computer mouse|mice]], and [[Computer keyboard|keyboards]] all have a similar way of being recycled. For example, first, each of the parts are taken apart then all of the inner parts get separated and placed into its own bin.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Computer-equipment-recycling-Essential-Guide|title=Computer equipment recycling – Essential Guide|work=ComputerWeekly|access-date=2017-05-08|language=en-GB|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221184215/http://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Computer-equipment-recycling-Essential-Guide/|archivedate=21 December 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref> |
According to the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] only around 15% of the [[e-waste]] actually is recycled. When e-waste byproducts leach into groundwater, are burned, or get mishandled during recycling, it causes harm. Health problems associated with such toxins include impaired mental development, cancer, and damage to the lungs, liver, and kidneys.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.electronicstakeback.com/2015/05/28/whats-going-on-with-electronic-waste/|title=What's Going On with Electronic Waste? – Electronics TakeBack Coalition|access-date=2017-04-26|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427103038/http://www.electronicstakeback.com/2015/05/28/whats-going-on-with-electronic-waste/|archivedate=27 April 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> That's why even wires have to be recycled. Different companies have different techniques to recycle a wire. The most popular one is the grinder that separates the copper wires from the plastic/rubber casing. When the processes are done there are two different piles left; one containing the copper powder, and the other containing plastic/rubber pieces.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.all-recycling-facts.com/wire-recycling.html|title=Wire Recycling|work=All-Recycling-Facts.com|access-date=2017-05-05|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170710232319/http://www.all-recycling-facts.com/wire-recycling.html|archivedate=10 July 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Computer monitors, [[Computer mouse|mice]], and [[Computer keyboard|keyboards]] all have a similar way of being recycled. For example, first, each of the parts are taken apart then all of the inner parts get separated and placed into its own bin.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Computer-equipment-recycling-Essential-Guide|title=Computer equipment recycling – Essential Guide|work=ComputerWeekly|access-date=2017-05-08|language=en-GB|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221184215/http://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Computer-equipment-recycling-Essential-Guide/|archivedate=21 December 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref> |
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Computer components contain many toxic substances, like [[Polychlorinated dibenzodioxins|dioxins]], [[polychlorinated biphenyl]]s (PCBs), [[cadmium]], [[chromium]], [[radionuclide|radioactive isotopes]] and [[mercury (element)|mercury]]. A typical computer monitor may contain more than 6% lead by weight, much of which is in the [[lead glass]] of the [[cathode ray tube]] (CRT). A typical 15 inch (38 cm) computer monitor may contain {{convert|1.5|lb|kg|0}} of lead<ref name=sb>{{cite news|url=http://www.smartbiz.com/article/articleprint/1525/-1/58|publisher=SmartBiz|title=Tips and Tricks for Recycling Old Computers|author=Morgan, Russell|date=2006-08-21|accessdate=2009-03-17}}</ref> but other monitors have been estimated to have up to {{convert|8|lb|kg|0}} of lead.<ref name=smith>{{cite news|url=http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-9604019_ITM|title=E-gad! Americans discard more than 100 million computers, cellphones and other electronic devices each year. As "e-waste" piles up, so does concern about this growing threat to the environment.|author=Royte, Elizabeth|date=2005-08-01|accessdate=2009-03-17|publisher=[[Smithsonian Institution]]|work=[[Smithsonian Magazine]]}}</ref> Circuit boards contain considerable quantities of lead-tin solders that are more likely to leach into groundwater or create [[air pollution]] due to incineration. In US landfills, about 40% of the lead content levels are from e-waste.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://computer.howstuffworks.com/discarded-old-computer1.htm|title=What Happens to your Discarded Old Computer?|last=Toothman|first=Jessika|website=HowStuffWorks}}</ref> The processing (e.g. incineration and acid treatments) required to reclaim these precious substances may release, generate, or synthesize toxic byproducts. |
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===National services=== |
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Recycling of computer hardware is considered environmentally friendly because it prevents hazardous waste, including [[Toxic heavy metal|heavy metals]] and carcinogens, from entering the atmosphere, landfill or waterways. While electronics consist a small fraction of total waste generated, they are far more dangerous. There is stringent legislation designed to enforce and encourage the sustainable disposal of appliances, the most notable being the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive of the [[European Union]] and the [[United States]] National Computer Recycling Act.<ref>National Computer Recycling Act of 2005, H.R. 425, 109th Cong. (2005–2006)</ref> |
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===Efforts for minimizing computer hardware waste=== |
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As computer hardware contain a wide number of metals inside, the United States [[Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) encourages the collection and recycling of computer hardware. "[[E-cycling]]", the recycling of computer hardware, refers to the donation, reuse, shredding and general collection of used electronics. Generically, the term refers to the process of collecting, brokering, disassembling, repairing and recycling the components or metals contained in used or discarded electronic equipment, otherwise known as [[electronic waste]] (e-waste). "E-cyclable" items include, but are not limited to: televisions, computers, microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners, telephones and cellular phones, stereos, and VCRs and DVDs just about anything that has a cord, light or takes some kind of battery.<ref name="epa-ewaste-presentation">{{Cite web |url=https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-05/documents/overview.pdf |title=Broad Overview of E-Waste Management Policies in the U.S. |last= T. Gallo |first=Daniel |date=2013-07-15 |website=www.epa.gov |access-date=2020-01-17}}</ref> |
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Recycling a computer is made easier by a few of the national services, such as [[Dell]] and [[Apple Inc.|Apple]]. Both companies will take back the computer of their make or any other make. Otherwise a computer can be donated to [[Computer Aid International]] which is an organization that recycles and refurbishes old computers for hospitals, schools, universities, etc.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/askjack/2015/feb/19/how-safely-recycle-old-pcs-computers|title=How can I safely recycle my old PCs?|last=Schofield|first=Jack|date=2015-02-19|work=The Guardian|access-date=2017-04-26|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427103349/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/askjack/2015/feb/19/how-safely-recycle-old-pcs-computers|archivedate=27 April 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> |
Recycling a computer is made easier by a few of the national services, such as [[Dell]] and [[Apple Inc.|Apple]]. Both companies will take back the computer of their make or any other make. Otherwise a computer can be donated to [[Computer Aid International]] which is an organization that recycles and refurbishes old computers for hospitals, schools, universities, etc.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/askjack/2015/feb/19/how-safely-recycle-old-pcs-computers|title=How can I safely recycle my old PCs?|last=Schofield|first=Jack|date=2015-02-19|work=The Guardian|access-date=2017-04-26|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427103349/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/askjack/2015/feb/19/how-safely-recycle-old-pcs-computers|archivedate=27 April 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref> |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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{{Colbegin}} |
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* [[Computer architecture]] |
* [[Computer architecture]] |
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* [[Electronic hardware]] |
* [[Electronic hardware]] |
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* [[Open-source computing hardware]] |
* [[Open-source computing hardware]] |
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* [[Transistor]] |
* [[Transistor]] |
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{{Colend}} |
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==Sources== |
==Sources== |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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* {{Commons category-inline}} |
* {{Commons category-inline}} |
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* {{Wikibooks-inline}} |
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* {{Wikiversity-inline|Computer hardware}} |
* {{Wikiversity-inline|Computer hardware}} |
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