Gateway Parts

how do I find out if any of my old computer parts are salvagable?

I had a power surge, and my old computer got fried. Is there any parts that I may be able to salvage, before I through it away?

Public Comments

1. Hmm it may have some salvagable parts, the best way to test is either see if it turns on and see what works, or plug the parts into an old comp. and see if they still function. I doubt that the powers uplly still works becuz u had a power surge, so i would check the memory/ram and also any additional pci cards that may have been plugged in (graphics, sound,ethernet,etc. ALso, altho doubtful ur motherboard MAY be intact. Call a locla shop and ask for their opinion!
2. First and foremost, you need to pull your old hard drive and destroy it! Next depending on what got fried in your computer, if it was just the power supply, you might be able to salvage the memory modules. But if the computer is more than three years old. It will not be worth it. Just make sure you remove and destroy the old hard drive hit it with a hammer, until it is broken up! Anyone with a knowledge of operating systems can retrieve your bank account numbers, credit card numbers and login password from old hard drive!
3. before you toss the whole thing try opening it up. look on the motherboard for a fuse, if its blown replace it. look in side the power supply for a fuse. replace it. plug it in turn it on.
4. Yes, if HDD cannot be used in a new Computer or a fixed one definately have a party with it, open it up, carefull, remove the platter. sledge hammer to work. Take the rest to Salvation Army or call a school and see if they can use it to teach with.