John writes, "Now that I have a new gaming computer, how do I trash my old machine?"

You have a couple of options for getting rid of your old computer equipment.

Depending on your location and who handles your garbage, you might be able to simply place the components in your recycling bin and let your municipality deal with it from there.

Of course, electronics of any kind contain toxic substances, so your local regulations may vary. So, you'll have to check your local regulations before you simply dump your computer on the curb.

Another good way of getting rid of your old computer is placing it for sale on Craigslist. If your computer is really old, don't expect to get too much money out of it. Another option is to sell it on eBay, but that's a much more expensive route, especially for getting rid of something with a small monetary value.

You could also place it up for distribution on Freecycle - a network of recyclers that will take your old stuff from you. You won't get paid for it, but the equipment will be out of your hair (and you just might find something useful on your local Freecycle group.)

Important: make sure you wipe your hard drive with a hard drive eraser before giving it away. Any personal information that is left on the drive could be reconstructed and used without your permission.

Beyond throwing it away, selling it, or giving it away ... have you ever considered turning it into decoration? If you're really nerdy, like me, you can take the insides of a computer - like the motherboard and processor - and stick them on the wall. With enough components your wall will look like it was built in some kind of crazy steampunk universe.

Do you have a question you need answered? E-mail me! lordkat@gmail.com

Click here to check out How to Build a Gaming Computer for Under $1000.

Be safe,

Jason