We’ve all been in the position of purchasing something and then returning it. Maybe you bought something and it wasn’t quite what you thought it would be, or maybe it wasn’t working right – so you send it back.
So what happens to when IT equipment gets returned?
When it comes to technology, like PC’s and computer hardware, chances are that it is put back on the shelf (if it is fully functioning), and then sold at a lower price. Because of this, most of these items are in great shape and make for great IT purchases. Manufacturers test the products when they are returned to make sure that they work like new. Of course, you need to be careful and use good judgment when purchasing used or refurbished products. With a little “common-sense” shopping you can find like-new products for a much lower price.
When a PC is returned, it is easy to restore it to an almost-new state. Vendors go through rigorous testing to find the initial problem and fix it. Hard drives are wiped, operating systems are re-installed, and the system is tested and verified again. Legally, it cannot be called “new” and therefore it must be sold at a discount. That’s why it can be a great way to buy IT!
Some refurbished PC’s are actually brand new, and were never taken out of the box. “New-in-box” refurbished purchases are some of the best deals that you can find. If the product was not used but the packaging was opened, it’s classified as refurb and the next customer gets a bargain.
When to buy refurbished
If you are looking for a computer to run basic applications, like web browsing and word processing, buying from a reseller can be a great option. Because you are not looking for anything too complex, you can have your choice of brands and save some money!
Are you trying to cut back on your spending budget for your IT needs? Buying refurbished can easily solve this problem. Some companies and individuals don’t want to spend a lot on a PC but still want like-new performance. Refurbished products are always tested and restored to full working condition. Just because you spend less on a product does not mean that it will be of lower quality.
Buying refurbished is also a greener option. Many companies are trying to be more eco-friendly, and using a recycled or refurbished product is a green alternative. You’re extending the life of an existing computer and saving the resources that would be wasted if it was thrown out.
Here are a few questions that you should ask when you are purchasing refurbished equipment:
Does their used networking equipment come with a warranty?
Be sure that the equipment supplier has some sort of warranty in place; this means that your product is guaranteed to work upon installation, and after. Ensure that the coverage would meet your expectations and ensure your satisfaction in the product.
Do they offer a network hardware replacement program?
Any reputable vendor with faith in the quality of their product will also offer a replacement program. As a consumer, you deserve the insurance that your hardware will last. If the vendor doesn’t provide some sort of replacement offering, that could be an indication that they do not believe in the quality of their refurbished networking hardware.
How cheap is too cheap?
In today’s world, if pricing seems too low, chances are – you really need to be careful. “Too cheap” is a good indication that you could be dealing with counterfeit products. It could have been reproduced after hours in some Original Equipment Manufacturer’s factory – with serial numbers replicated. Make sure you are buying from a company who is a member of the Association of Service and Computer Dealers International and the North American Association of Telecommunications Dealers OR has an Anti-Counterfeit Policy that they stand by.
How do they handle the equipment?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the sudden flow of electricity between two objects caused by contact, an electrical short or dielectric breakdown. ESD can be caused by a buildup of static electricity by tribocharging, or by electrostatic induction. It happens naturally – all the time…But when it happens to electronic equipment, there can be problems. Vendors you purchase from need to have an ESD-protected environment, or stations in which ESD pads are used. Even the smallest electric charge can wreak havoc on equipment and damage technology to a point where it is defective.
Recommendations
Look around before you commit to a purchase. If you have a tight budget, buying refurbished is the best way to go. Refurbished computers and hardware have been carefully tested and inspected by professionals. If you get a refurbished product from an authorized reseller, you’ll know it’s in good working condition.
About CCNY Tech
CCNY Tech is a systems integrator, reseller and certified electronics waste recycler of IT networking & security hardware. CCNY Tech has the knowledge and product base to increase the security posture and enhance the efficiency of your network. They have been able to design, configure and implement custom solutions to fit our customer’s network architecture using the latest hardware based technologies. If you have any questions, give our team a call at 315-724-2209, or visit our website at ccnytech.com.