by Aster C. Lilly

Created on: December 09, 2009

Bust out the windex, grab a paper towel, and blast some compressed air on that old machine of yours.  

Selling your old computer can be a simple task if you take the right steps to ensure the best price and personal safety.  This article will detail the procedure needed to maximize the amount of money earned from a computer, and get your system to someone who will appreciate your old machine.

Appraisal

First, you may want to appraise your computer.  Because new technology is constantly emerging, a computer that once cost $1,000 brand new may be worth less than 10 percent of its purchase price.  If your computer is not worth the hassle of cleaning and sale, you may want to donate it to a worthy charity and pocket the expense as a tax write-off.

Secondly, consider what the computer is worth as parts.  If you have a low-end computer from several years ago, the case and parts may be worth more than the computer itself.  If you have an decent laptop with a working LCD screen, the screen may be worth more than the entire system. 

Some Apple computers have logic boards that are still highly valued on the market - there may be someone out there desperate for a part inside your computer.  

The best way to take a cursory look at the value of your computer is to view ebay or amazon.com, enter in your model number, and see what comes up.  

Cleaning and Organizing Before the Sale

Organize and clean all peripheral devices.  Most people who want to purchase a clean-looking system would like to have a mouse, keyboard, and any original cords that go along with the device.  Purchase a can of compressed air (priced around three dollars at Staples, Office Depot, and most grocery stores) and a roll of paper towels.

The best way to clean a desktop computer for resale is to first wipe off any dust on the case with a dry papertowel.  If dust is caked on, simply damp the towel and wipe.  Do not get the inside of the computer wet.  

If you know how to open a computer case,  you may want to spray quick blasts of compressed air into the case to remove any dust that has accumulated on the heat fan.  Take heed to make short blasts of air, do not hold down the compressor.  Cold air will cause water to form on your computer parts, make sure to squeeze the trigger for no more than a second each time. 

To clean the keyboard, turn it upside down with the keys facing the floor, and spray compressed

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