An idea in the works.

**CapitalRecovery** · 02-25-2017, 03:53 PM

I get all my computers for free, and I have a friends kid that needs some extra cash. So I was thinking of offering him this idea: Pay him $1 per computer to scrap up front, or pay him 1/3 of the payment for scrapping laptops and desk tops alike. What are your guys thoughts on this. With the kids help I should be able to focus more on getting scrap.

**miked** · 02-25-2017, 04:41 PM

You may get this to work for a while. Personally I started working full time when I was 14 but today seems to be a very different. By the way I have never been paid Minimum Wage. I would keep the pay simple perhaps a dollar each could work for both of you since you don't pay for them.

I use 2-3 drivers with different bits for tearing down towers. It makes it very efficient which will make your employer happy he can

Are you going to go through all the computers and determine which to tear down and which should be tested?

I think this could be a stepping stone to expansion but be careful. 73, Mike

**CapitalRecovery** · 02-25-2017, 04:52 PM

I was thinking 1/3 for me because I'm collecting, 1/3 for him since he is dismantling down, and 1/3 goes for equipment and maybe making a business out of it. I normally don't test anything because they all come from a computer shop that test the gear and keeps the cream of the crop. So I get everything that they can't resale. Some times when I get computers from people, I will test them but nothing really special.
Eventually if I get this growing I would like to start a business with him as a partner. Of course we would put everything in writing.

**miked** · 02-25-2017, 05:35 PM

Depending on how the computer shop operates you may find a lot of sell-able material, I do. mike

**harsas** · 02-25-2017, 09:32 PM

I would recommend paying him the $1 up front. This way, the constant flow of cash is more likely to keep him coming. If he has to wait for his money, he is much more likely to grow bored and move on. Tis the nature of youth.

**ElectricLiquidators** · 02-26-2017, 10:28 PM

Typically when tearing down computers, I pay a guy $1 for every motherboard he recovers, and he obviously has to do the rest. If he's good, he can make a lot of money. If not, well he makes $40 a day, but he's not really working.

**eesakiwi** · 02-27-2017, 01:31 AM

Supply a facemask/breathing filter and safety glasses. Even better, rip the side off the computer and dump it into a tub of warm soapyish water.
The crud in computers is unbelievable, heathwise its a minefield.
I think I'm still getting over inhaling a airborne trace of dust from 15 months ago, it got stuck in my throat at about Adams's apple area.

And its all too easy to just yank some wires out while still holding the screwdriver and stab yourself in the eye.