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Why you should buy Refurbished Servers

Electronics

Buying secondhand phones is customary but not advisable. On the other hand, buying refurbished servers is being recommended. Now, many of you would ask, aren’t they the same? Refurbished is different from plain secondhand stuff. When something is secondhand, you sell it for a remarkably lower price because it is sold “as is where is.” Refurbished software took time and effort before resale. Here are reasons why you should buy refurbished servers: Click to read more… 

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Saves Money

Upscaling old servers to look like new ones is a way to get quality product and save money. Buying a new server is a very healthy decision. However, what if your organization does not have the budget yet? Refurbished servers are the best options for you. They work as fast new servers do, and you can buy just a fourth of the typical new servers—all servers’ functions in the same way. The difference lies in more advanced features and the new shell of newly manufactured servers. More importantly, most refurbished servers are changed on the inside to run efficiently. Your company could save money that you could use to buy the company a CRM system and the like. You could save on advertisements. Whatever the purchase is, the gist is that there is money to spend.

Good for the Environment

If the pandemic has not yet been an eye-opener to how the environment could wreak havoc on people, then humanity hasn’t learned a lesson. With brand new models coming in and out due to the diligence of software engineers, it is hard to say yes to something which has been used already. If you saw the movie Artificial Intelligence, you would be surprised at how many iron cases are used up in a year. Utmost respect to developers for creating new models, but refurbished servers are an alternative. Having a server for a company is a pre-need. Refurbished servers serve as a gateway.

Good Maintenance

New servers with brand new features perform well. Although when bad luck knocks, they become down for a while. Unfortunately, one of the disadvantages of a new model is hard to find parts. With refurbished servers, maintenance is super easy. You need to know the exact specs of your machine and many options online and offline would present themselves. Buying parts that are already in the market gives you the chance to compare prices. The best thing is you save a lot of time and effort waiting.

The Friendly Tech Guy

One of the most extraordinary things that a customer could get from a refurbished process is the support and assistance from the seller from start until issues arise. Maybe it is an isolated case, but customer service staff of refurbished servers are usually kind. Refurbishing a server takes a lot of time. The time spent on it makes the technicians and engineers grow an attachment to it. The good thing about makers of refurbished is knowledgeable about different models. They will tell you some techniques on installation, management, and aftercare process. They might even give you free manuals and tools for maintenance.

Delivery

While some new models ordered on the internet require patience since you are in the queue, Refurbished servers are readily available for people who want to choose. All you need to do is pay, and it would be delivered to you. Refurbished servers are usually on-hand and sold in promotions too.Each machine’s life span depends on how careful the owners are.

Hardware and Software Makeover

Refurbished servers are like remodeled cars and re-upholstered furniture; they are updated on the outside and the inside. While others may suffer a bit of mark from previous owners, some technicians overhaul the outer shell too. Picking of units is mainly your discretion. Some technicians might also offer a customization package. Of course, when your server is new, keeping it on stock appearance is more likely. With a refurbished server, you may place a logo and paint it in your brand’s color. Again, not everyone offers this kind of customization.

Familiar with New Features

Maintenance helps, but there are times when you are on your own. The familiar features of your servers make them easy to use and manipulate during troubleshooting. Furthermore, there are many groups of users available should you have questions and answers. With refurbished servers, product reviews have already been made. The texts are available for reference and might help in decision-making. Peers might be more familiar with a refurbished unit rather than a new model. This helps you use your unit to its maximum potential.

Refurbished Servers Warranty

Getting the value for money when buying refurbished furniture from legit distributors is already given. Costumers are buying the valuable item that is slightly older and getting more updated software and drivers; the warranty is a bonus. With many people being cynical about how great a refurbished server is, getting a warranty is an assurance. A return warranty is generally issued in the early stage of purchase, while a service warranty ensures clients their units are checked from time to time for free. Usually, the greater the risk of the unit is, the longer the warranty period.

Conclusion

Given these benefits of buying a refurbished server, of course, the consumer still has the right to buy a new server. New servers still have advantages over refurbished servers since they are just fresh off the market. Economically speaking, refurbished servers can still help many start-ups who want to improve their data centers. There is no right or wrong when buying one’s equipment, only preference.  Everyone would only determine each server’s compatibility with your company in the long run. A new and refurbished server could both be assets to your organization.

Should you feel the need to purchase servers, it is crucial to go to someone you can trust. Seven IT may help you with your questions. For inquiries on the best models and how to purchase, please email us your information at info@sevenit.com, and we would be glad to assist you.

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Are Refurbished Monitors Worth It

Electronics

Technology has wholly conquered our world, our lifestyle, and even our daily routine. Have you ever thought about being completely disconnected from this era of innovation and technology? Probably not, primarily if your work, the very source of your lifestyle (and income), depends on technology. Besides your smartphone, tablets, or laptops, computer monitors are a substantial source of attraction. It’s also the core of relaxation and work. It allows us to access the vast digital world of the internet and it’s endless possibilities while performing several tasks, thanks to its unique and powerful features. Click to read more… 

What’s A Refurbished Monitor?

Monitors are also considered great investments as they are not cheap, to begin with. While some older versions are affordable, your preference and needs may be higher than traditional ones, and it comes with a hefty price. This is where refurbished and used monitors come in place. While both are affordable, they are not similar, and most people get confused with these two terms.

Refurbished products (almost any item tagged with the word which) means restored to a like-new status or condition. Refurbished monitors come with a warranty while used products may not. In this case, Dusan at VSS Monitoring allows you to get the best monitor deals at an affordable price with a guaranteed high-quality product from trusted dealers. Understanding the nature of refurbished products helps you be confident with your investment.

  • It’s a returned product to the manufacturer.
  • It could be a wrong item delivered, opened, and returned.
  • It can be a returned product under warranty coverage and asked for a refund instead.
  • The parts are restored, repaired, and tested to their like-new status.
  • Refurbished monitors don’t have visible blemishes or dead pixels.
  • Most refurbished monitors have warranty coverage of 30 to 90 days (vary per manufacturer terms).

Refurbished monitors are returned items that the original buyer might not be happy with or encountered a few issues and returned to the manufacturer. The manufacturer then tests the product for quality assurance to make sure the monitors are working perfectly fine. They are sold at lower prices.

Are Refurbished Computer Monitors Worth Buying?

Checking for the benefits that you can get with purchasing a refurbished monitor helps you decide whether it’s a good investment or not. The price tag is one of the key benefits when someone buys a refurbished monitor. 

  • Refurbished monitors are as high-quality as purchasing a new one. Though the price is lower, it allows you to buy a high-end computer monitor without paying a full price.
  • Refurbished monitors are guaranteed to provide excellent quality as the manufacturer tried and tested it under a strict quality assurance test. The manufacturer ensures that the monitors are not defective.
  • Buying refurbished monitors from trusted and reliable dealers, you can return the product if you’re not happy with it. That comes under specific warranty coverage, which is an excellent deal on your end. 

With the benefits you can get with a refurbished monitor, it indeed is an excellent deal if you are searching for a high-quality computer monitor at an affordable price.

Factors To Consider Before Buying A Refurbished Monitor

Just like any purchase, after checking what benefit you can get to the product, you have to consider the following important factors before purchasing a refurbished monitor.

  • It must have warranty coverage, which allows you to exchange or return the monitor if problems are encountered.
  • Check dealer and brand reliability. Samsung, LG, Dell, or Acer are some trusted brands to select.
  • Ensure that the product is certified refurbished; if there is no certification, then better to move out regardless of its enticing price tag.
  • Check the product age. Older monitor types may give you a headache looking for parts, and repair may be a challenge in the future. 
  • Always get the latest version of the device you want to purchase.
  • Do quick price research, compare your options. 

Conclusion

You must be aware of all your investments. Whether you plan to purchase a new one or a refurbished monitor, taking into consideration the elements mentioned earlier will help you find the best deals suitable for your budget without compromising quality. 

Refurbished monitors are sure worth the money you spend. These products are also considered great buy with little vigilance in mind. 

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Purchasing second-hand printers a good idea?

Electronics

In the motoring world, it is generally agreed that purchasing second-hand is a brilliant idea. Cars are one of the many items that lose a large proportion of their value as soon as they transform from new to used, regardless of how much they are used, so buyers can save huge amounts of cash by buying second-hand cars that are still in good condition. With printers, businesses get the exact same deal. Click to read more…

A smart decision

The market for second-hand printers is often extremely active, because of the bargains that are on offer for perfectly usable pieces of kit. It’s particularly common for consumers to opt for second-hand office printers, because these are typically far pricier than domestic printers and are designed to last far longer. That means businesses can expect to save far more cash on their purchase and still have a lengthy spell without having to replace a faulty part.

Printer maintenance

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It is the fear of having to splash out on replacement parts which prevents many buyers from taking advantage of low-cost second-hand printers. As with second-hand cars and most electronic gadgets, the likelihood of a part needing to be replaced will be higher depending on the age of the printer. However, unlike second-hand cars, there are only a few components to a printer which could potentially needed replacing and many of them are relatively inexpensive. Separation pads range from £5-£20 depending on the brand. Rollers will eventually wear out but can be priced similarly same depending on the size. A fuser is the major part of the printer and will also be likely to wear out after a certain amount of prints. Nevertheless, this can still be replaced for less than the price of a brand new model.

Use a trusted supplier

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In order to weigh up the pros and cons of their purchase, buyers will need to pay close attention to some important details about the printer. Ideally, they will be able to make their purchase from a trusted supplier, which only stocks quality second-hand printers and can provide accurate stats about the level of its usage. 

Buyers might be able to get a better deal on eBay, but they are often playing a dangerous game when it comes to the strength of the information about the product. Ideally, it’s best to approach the purchase like anyone would for a second-hand car. Do your research, consider the potential maintenance costs and find a trustworthy buyer. Those who do this should be confident in their ability to find a quality second-hand printer.

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Refurbished desktop computers: is it safe to buy them?

Electronics

If you like to save money when buying electronic devices, you might like to consider buying a refurbished product. But how much do you know about refurbished computers? Do you know about the difference between used, open-box, off-lease, and refurbished desktop computers? Many people think that buying a refurbished PC means buying a secondhand PC Desktop with poor quality and without any warranty. We are here to tell you why they are wrong. In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know before purchasing a refurbished computer.. Click to read more…

what is a refurbished desktop computer?

If you like to save money when buying electronic devices, you might like to consider buying a refurbished product. But how much do you know about refurbished computers? Do you know about the difference between used, open-box, off-lease, and refurbished desktop computers? Many people think that buying a refurbished PC means buying a secondhand PC Desktop with poor quality and without any warranty. We are here to tell you why they are wrong. In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know before purchasing a refurbished computer.

What is the difference between refurbished, used, off-lease, open-box, and renewed desktop computers?

An important thing you should know before purchasing a new desktop computer is the difference between renewed, used, and refurbished desktop computers. This information may change your decision about what is the best choice for you.

Used desktop computers

Used computers are the cheapest option for anyone who wants to buy a laptop. Buying a used desktop means that you are buying a secondhand computer that has been used by someone before. You can find these computers on intermediary sites like eBay or Craigslist. Since used desktop computers are usually sold as they are, they may have minor or major cosmetic damage. When buying a used desktop computer, you have to rely on the owner’s knowledge to clean and test the device before selling it. In fact, you cannot be sure about the product being problem-free as the product is not backed with a warranty. If you have decided to buy a used desktop computer, make sure that you can return it for a refund if anything is wrong with it, and test it quickly after you buy it.

Open-Box desktop computers

When a product is labeled as “Open-Box,” it means that the packaging has been opened. Open-box computers have likely been returned for some reason which might be something other than being damaged. An Open-Box product might be a computer that a shopper changed their mind about. The reason can be as simple as not liking the color, however, the product may have been used for some weeks. Open-Box computers are around 20% cheaper than new computers. But when you buy a refurbished PC, you can be more sure about the product being in a like-new condition as they are tested before being sold.

Refurbished desktop computers

These products may have been used before, and then sent back by the customer. The reason customers send these products back can be a problem, or because they simply didn’t want them anymore. Refurbished computers sellers will repair everything that is damaged and test the device to assure it works properly. Sellers also clean the computer and replace worn exterior parts like the faceplate or buttons in many cases.
Refurbished products come with a warranty, but it is shorter than the warranty of new products. Sometimes buying a refurbished PC from the original manufacturer gives you access to the tech support you would get with a new product. You may also see the refurbished products named as “refurb,” “reconditioned,” or “renewed.”

Certified refurbished desktop computers

A desktop computer refurbished by a third-party company or individual is called a refurbished desktop computer. But if a manufacturer, dealer, or an authorized third-party refurbishment company does so, the computer is called a certified refurbished desktop computer.

Renewed desktop computers

In most cases, when someone talks about a renewed laptop, they mean refurbished. But renewed desktop computers in Amazon are products that are either refurbished, preowned, or open-box. Although preowned computers may have scratches or dents or other minor cosmetic issues, they are in fully functioning conditions.

Off-lease computers

Off-lease computers are devices that were lent to a company for a period -usually two or three years- by the manufacturer. The company returns the computers at the end of this fixed period and rents newer modes. What you see as off-lease deals are these old models being sold after being refurbished and certified.

The refurbishing process

Different companies have different refurbishing processes, but all in all, the refurbishing process has almost fixed steps. It is all about repairing spare parts and returning them to the warehouse or to the equipment. 
In short, different steps of the refurbishment process include:

  1. Sourcing cores
  2. Sanitization
  3. Triage
  4. Data wipe
  5. Repairs, replacement, and reassembly
  6. Testing and quality control
  7. Cosmetic repairs
  8. Software installation and licensing
  9. Packaging and shipping

What are the benefits of buying refurbished PCs?

Not many people have unlimited budgets to purchase the latest brand-new tech as soon as it comes out every time. If you are one of the people who can’t keep up with that sort of lifestyle, you can think about buying refurbished PCs as a much more affordable way to get new-to-market tech. However, you may have to wait for a few months before refurbished models of brand-new releases become available on the market.
Moreover, buying refurbished products is a good way to help the environment as it reduces the need for manufacturing new computers.

Is buying refurbished desktop computers risky?

As long as the refurbished computer you are buying has been cleaned and reset properly, there is nothing to worry about. However, if you want to buy a refurbished desktop computer, don’t forget to pay attention to the terms of sale, warranty, and return policy. Try to find a reliable seller and ask about the warranty; sellers may offer you a full warranty, a 90-day guarantee, or say that you can’t return the product. Another thing you should consider is the product’s grade. As the last point, it is better to test the refurbished products before the warranty ends.

Refurbished desktop computers’ grades

One thing you should have in mind when buying a refurbished PC is paying attention to the grades the products are marked as. Many suppliers have a grading guide to explain what they class as different grades. Refurbished desktop computers’ grades can range from A-D. Being labeled as an A-grade means that the refurbished PC is the most pristine (and possibly the most expensive one), while grade-D products are more heavily-worn (and the cheapest).
All refurbished desktop computers are supposed to have the same high-functioning components and security no matter how much their appearance is damaged. You can see what the grading scales are based on, on each sellers’ website.

Final words

Whether you have a limited budget or want to be eco-friendly when buying a new PC, refurbished desktop computers are the best choice. Comparing refurbished computers to open-box, off-lease, used, and renewed computers shows that purchasing a refurbished computer is the safest and most economical option for those who don’t want to buy new computers to enjoy the latest tech. However, there are different things you should have in mind when buying a refurbished computer the most important of which is finding a reliable seller.

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How are remanufactured ink and toner cartridges made

Electronics

Millions of people around the world now use remanufactured ink and toner cartridges in order to cut down on printing costs. Since original brand inks and toners are highly expensive, both business and home users now rely upon either remanufactured or compatible printer cartridges.

Both remanufactured and compatible cartridges can help you save up to 75% on printing costs! In the long run, these savings can add up to a huge sum.

Here in this post, we will discuss how remanufactured ink and toner cartridges are made. First, let us understand the basics. Click to read more…

What exactly is a remanufactured inkjet or toner cartridge?

A remanufactured ink or toner cartridge is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) printer cartridge that has been cleaned, repaired, and refilled with ink or toner of similar quality.

Reputed sellers refurbish used OEM printer cartridges in controlled environments. At InkjetsClub, for instance, used printer cartridges are disassembled and cleaned by trained technicians in ISO-certified facilities.

What about damaged parts in a used printer cartridge?

Damaged printer cartridge components, if any, are replaced so that a remanufactured or refurbished ink or toner cartridge works as new.

Where are remanufactured cartridges sourced from?

Inkjet and laser toner cartridges meant to be remanufactured are sourced from printer users around the world.

Here at InkjetsClub, we also accept used OEM ink and toner cartridges for recycling. You can avail of a $10 discount on the next purchase each time you recycle a used printer cartridge with us.

Many sellers also collect used OEM printer cartridges through fundraising initiatives and community recycling programs.

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The process of making remanufactured ink and toner cartridges.

The steps listed below outline the process of making remanufactured ink and toner cartridges at InkjetsClub. Most sellers follow more or less a similar process for making remanufactured printer cartridges.

  1. Used OEM cartridges collected either directly from printer users or via community recycling programs are sorted by type, brand, model, and cartridge number (a unique identifier for a cartridge meant to be used with a printer of certain make and model).
  2. To prevent inkjet cartridges from drying, they are stored in a controlled environment.
  3. Our quality control professionals check each cartridge for damages if any. Electrical testing tools are used to check the performance of each cartridge.
  4. If there’s any ink or toner left inside a cartridge, it’s emptied by a technician.
  5. De mineralized water (free of dissolved minerals) is used with a cleaning system in order to clean cartridges. Post cleaning, cartridges are dried in a temperature-controlled environment.
  6. Cartridges are refilled with high-quality ink or toner with the help of a refilling machine, designed specifically to follow OEM specifications. The ink or toner formula is designed to match the print quality of name brand cartridges.
  7. If there’s an electronic chip on a cartridge, it is either reset or replaced so that your printer recognizes a remanufactured inkjet or toner cartridge. If you’ve refilled cartridges at home, only to find out later that your printer refuses to recognize them, it could be due to an electronic chip.
  8. Our quality control professionals inspect each cartridge after it has been vacuum-refilled and dried. Getting the pressure inside the cartridge is extremely important.
  9. Cartridges that pass the quality check are carefully sealed in order to prevent leakage.
  10. Just like original-brand cartridges, remanufactured cartridges also go through page yield testing using ISO standards in the final stage.
  11. Cartridges that pass the page yield test are cleaned yet again and packed in heat-resistant packs.

If you have in the past been disappointed with Costco refills or tried refilling cartridges at home, the process outlined above should make it clear how remanufactured printer cartridges are made to perform and deliver quality comparable to expensive OEM ink and toner cartridges.

Will remanufactured cartridges affect manufacturer’s warranty?

No printer manufacturers cannot prevent you from using remanufactured cartridges or third-party consumables.

Just make sure you shop with a reliable seller. Do not buy from anonymous sellers online even if refurbished cartridges are offered at throwaway prices. Poorly refurbished cartridges can damage your printer.

Final Words

When you buy remanufactured ink and toner cartridges for HP, Brother, Epson, and Canon printers, you do not just save on printing costs.

You help the environment too.

Since remanufactured printer cartridges are made from recycled (almost entirely) and reconstituted OEM cartridges and parts, it helps prevent even bigger piles of non-degradable plastic-waste ending up in a landfill somewhere.

 
 
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10 Things to Consider When Purchasing a Camera

Electronics

Are you interested in photography but don’t know where to start? If you are ready to take your photography beyond your smartphone, but don’t know where to start with your camera purchase, Schiller’s has the class for you. In “How to Buy a Camera” we will introduce students to the different styles of photography, different variations in the cameras, and their purposes – so you can make an educated purchase. In this blog, we have highlighted 10 main points of our professional course to help every aspiring photographer in making a camera selection. To learn even more about selecting the perfect camera for your photography needs, register for our “How to Buy a Camera” course. Click to read more…

1. Before You Buy a Camera

  1. What are you going to use the camera for? Ask this question of yourself before you buy a camera. Do you want something that will take better photos than your phone or do you want to get into photography as a hobby or business?
  2. What is your budget? If you are starting this as a hobby, you may not need a professional grade Digital Single Reflex Lens (DSLR) camera but you may want to get something that will allow you to grow into a DSLR. Or you may just want something to bring with you for better snap shots than your flip phone does.
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2. Types of Cameras

  1. Point-and-Shoot: These are great for snap shots and traveling light on vacation. They offer optical zooms that can’t be matched by a cell phone.
  2. Bridge Camera: like the Nikon P1000: These are a little bigger than a Point-and-Shoot and will offer more features, mainly better zoom and telephoto capabilities. They are also a one-piece unit, which makes them easy to keep the sensor clean and there’s no need for space for extra lenses. The Nikon P1000 will outperform all but the top of the line professional cameras with multi thousand-dollar lenses. Great for birding!
  3. Interchangeable Lens Cameras – DSLR & Mirrorless: Unlike bridge cameras, these cameras allow you to use different lenses so you have more creative options.
  4. APS-C (and micro 4/3) vs full frame vs medium-format: Cameras come with different sized sensors (the digital film).When someone says full frame they mean the sensor is the same size as a 35mm film negative. APS-C and micro 4/3 have sensors smaller than a 35mm film negative and medium-format are larger. This will matter when you are buying lenses as well as when you are considering which camera you want to buy. The smaller sensors can have the same number of pixels as the full frame, the pixels are just smaller. Technically this means a smaller sensor will not capture an image quite as well as a full frame but it really only matters at the extreme, like taking photos of the Milky Way. 

3. DSLR vs Mirrorless

  1. Traditional DSLR Cameras have a mirror inside them that allows you to see through the lens so you see what the picture framing will look like. Mirrorless Cameras use a sensor that captures your image as a video feed to the Electronic Viewfinder (EVF).
  2. Size: DSLRs are much larger in size and weigh more. For people with big hands, the larger cameras feel better in our hands. A Mirrorless Camera will generally be smaller, lighter, and better for traveling.
  3. Battery life: Mirrorless Cameras use smaller batteries (because the camera body is smaller) and the viewfinder is electronic, which means you will go through batteries faster. It is advised to carry a spare with you when shooting with a Mirrorless Camera.
  4. Optical vs Electronic Viewfinder: The optical viewfinder will save you on battery power, however, an electronic viewfinder has the advantage that it can be set to show you exposure of your image before taking the photo.

4. Speed and Performance

File size, or MegaPixel (MP) is what most people first look at when buying a camera. The higher the MP, the sharper the photo will look and the larger you can print. It also corresponds to the price of the camera. ISO is a key performance factor to consider when buying a camera. It essentially dictates how your camera will perform in low light situations. The higher the number, the less light you will need. Unless you are going to go out and shoot sporting events or wildlife, frames per second (fps) should not be your main concern. However, if you are going to shoot those things, FPS will increase the chance of “getting the perfect shot.”

5. The Mega Pixel Myth and Reality

There are some who chase after more megapixels but the truth is a 20mp camera will give you plenty of information to 20”x30”. In some cases, more pixels can hurt. In low light, a full frame sensor with fewer pixels will have less issues with digital noise than a crop sensor with more pixels.

6. Ergonomics

If it is too heavy or doesn’t fit well in your hand, then you will be less likely to take it with you. This is a major benefit of an in-person camera store shopping experience. You can hold the camera and see how it feels in your hands. However, please don’t come in and then buy online, we can’t stay in business and if you find a new camera cheaper online it is probably grey market and you will not be able to get it serviced. Camera manufacturers set the price, not the stores.

7. Interchangeable Lenses

If you decide to purchase a camera where you can change lenses, you open up a big box of choices. There are prime lenses that are just one focal length. Lower numbers, like 15mm, are wide angle and will show more in your photo. Great for landscapes. Around 50mm is “normal” and what our eyes see. Over 85mm is considered telephone and this is like a telescope, it brings far subjects closer. Great for taking photos of bears in the wild when you want to stay a safe distance from your subject. After prime there are zoom lenses and they come in all different lengths. Primes are usually smaller, lighter, and better in their image quality than zoom but will not give you the flexibility. Zooms allow you flexibility with fewer lenses to carry around. There are also lenses made just for APC-S cameras that will not work on full frame cameras. Full frame lenses work on both, but they are generally more expensive. One thing I like to tell people is “you buy a camera, but you invest in lenses.” Lenses last longer than the body and I often recommend, if you think that one day you may buy a full frame camera, only buy full frame lenses.

8. Image Stabilization

This helps reduce camera shake. There is in body image stabilization (IBIS) and lens image stabilization (Canon lenses rock this.) Image stabilization can really come in useful in low light.

8. Video

Most all digital cameras these days will allow you to shoot some video. If you think you are going to shoot a lot of video, be sure to do some research first. However, if you just may capture some special moments, you should be fine with any camera made within the last 5 years.

9. Other considerations

  1. Shooting Mode: Most cameras have Mode settings. These are the basic modes; M for manual, A or AV for aperture priority, S or SV for shutter speed priority, P for program, and AUTO (in green letters) for fully automatic. These are all designed to allow you as the photographer to choose the shutter speed and aperture used to take a photo. Our class on “Photo Fundamentals” or the “Art of Photography” will go deep into how and why you would want to control these functions. Most of the consumer cameras also have a scene setting. This is fully automatic like the AUTO setting, but it allows you to tell the camera what you are shooting like sports, close-ups or other scenes. The camera will adjust for the scene to give you better photos.
  2. RAW vs Jpeg: Jpeg can be used for almost anything. Sharing on social networks, emailing, and printing. They are smaller than RAW images and you will not need to do anything to them. RAW, on the other hand, will need to be processed by a photo editing program like Lightroom or Photoshop. Then why shoot in RAW? Jpeg compresses a photo. Basically, it gets rid of information the computer doesn’t think you need. RAWis all the data from the camera’s sensor. It allows for more detail, mostly in the dark and light areas.
  3. Wifi & GPS: Wifi on your camera is made to transfer a few images to your phone so you can share them right away. On some cameras, it allows you to control and take photos using your phone as a controller. Additionally, some cameras put GPS tags where you took the photo. I’m not a big fan of GPS mainly because it is always on and uses a lot of battery power, however, I can use the GPS from my phone and Wifi of my camera if I want to tag an image.
  4. There is Weatherproof, dust-proof, and freeze-proof; then there is waterproof: Weatherproof is not waterproof. If you are going to be out in bad weather or dusty places, spend the money for a camera that is well sealed. Just remember, it is not waterproof. If it falls in a river, it will be ruined (and I hope you purchased a MAC warranty). There are waterproof cameras that are designed to go underwater and or cases made for your camera that allows them to go underwater like for scuba divers.
  5. While there are many things to consider when purchasing a camera, the experts at Schillers are always prepared to educate you on features, tips & tricks, and anything else before you make the decision. We offer in-store consultations with our trusted team members to help simplify the process. In addition, if you want to learn more about purchasing a camera, or any of our professional class topics, register for an expert-led introductory photography course today!
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Should you buy a used Projector?

Electronics
If this is your first time then welcome! This site is all about creating the ultimate man cave, home theater, or gaming room set up. Whether you need help with some technical questions, need ideas, or anything of that nature, this site is meant to help you with all those aspects related to the topics above. I figure deciding to buy a used projector can apply to a wide range of people not just looking to build a home theater. Maybe you want a home theater set up in your garage or for office space and you’re stuck deciding on how to get a projector to match your budget. You could also be wondering if it’s worth getting a cheap used projector just so your kids can enjoy its basic function.Click to read more… 
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There are some common questions you might have such as whether it is a good idea to buy a used projector. It’s tempting to want to find the cheapest / best deal on a projector if you fit into these categories. Maybe you also want a high-end model from years ago for a better price and you’re wondering if buying refurbished is a good option. So the question arises:

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So should you buy a used projector?

There’s only a few instances in which buying a used projector is a better idea than not. Factors such as bulb life, projector type, price, and warranty status are the biggest things that will sway you one way or the other.

You don’t want a projector that could be nearing the end of its bulb life, nor do you want a used projector that could die sooner than you wanted and require more money towards repairs. However, it can be a very good deal for you if you find a projector that checks the boxes on all the things we just mentioned.

The rest of this article will help you understand these factors in more detail. I want you to use this article as a quick reference to help you reach a decision on your purchase more efficiently, and in a manner in which you feel like you made an informed decision. Don’t just fall for the appealing price! So without further delay, let’s get started!

I called Best Buy and asked them the same question: this is what they said…

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I gave the tech support guys a quick call and explained to them what I was looking for. My call consisted of asking them what they would recommend if I was looking to buy a used projector for a cheap set up in an office, garage, or for an entry-level home theater set up.

They did in fact say they would recommend buying a used projector if it could check some important boxes. I was actually more skeptical of buying a used projector than they were, but by the end of the conversation, I understood what they meant.

It depends on what type of projector it is

There are a few different types of projectors: DLPs, LCDs, SRXDs to name a few. DLPs have the longest bulb life out of the models I just listed. LCDs are the worst! I absolutely do not recommend buying an LCD projector because of how crappy its bulb life is. It’s so much more likely to die by the time you inherit that projector from someone who’s already used it for some time.

DLP projectors have bulb lives of thousands of hours! Most home theater projectors will be DLPs, just make sure none of the products you look at is LCD!

It depends on whether it’s refurbished or “open” box status

“Refurbished” means that the product was sent to the manufacturer because something in it was all jacked up. It could be anything from a loose screw to a part of the motherboard that needed to be saudered back on. Either way, this causes the price of the projector to go down substantially. When someone returns a projector, for this reason, the manufacturer might refurbish it and resell it at a lower price because the buyer wanted a brand new model.

Open-box means that the product was returned because it wasn’t what the user expected the product to be and it was within their return window. Open-box projectors are more expensive because no technical work was needed to get the projector up and running. There are four tiers of open-box status. Tier 1 = they returned it within the trial window because it wasn’t what they wanted. Tier 4 = it came and didn’t work as advertised so they returned it, it got fixed, and the buyer wanted a new model anyway. Try to find a projector lower and the tier rating.

Bulb life, price, and age all relate to each other (and equally matter)

Warranty fits in with these factors as well. It’s ideal to find a projector that still has a warranty on it at the time of purchase (for a period greater than 90 days). It’s also okay if it doesn’t have a warranty left on it. I’m not at all sponsored by Best Buy, but if you go through them, the guy said they can put Geek Squad Protection on it so you’re still covered if you have any issues. Also, note that replacing a dead bulb will cost around $200.

When you’re looking at a used projector, consider the following questions. Has the bulb been replaced already on the projector or will it likely burn out while I own it? Will the price of any repairs / additional warranty equal the cost of me just buying a projector new? How old is the model and when was it manufactured? How much has the projector been moved around? Has it been dismounted multiple times and packed up considerably? That could lead to some additional wear and tear.

A Good Example of a Used Projector Deal

The Epson PowerLite Home Cinema is a great example I’ll use (Best Buy found this for me and I could have bought this one during the phone call).

  • Epson PowerLite Home Cinema, $400, 3100 Lumens, Refurbished, 1080p, only 90 days left of warranty. This one has a lot of lumens! It’ll be nice and bright with good image quality. I could even put Geek Squad Protection on it for extended warranty and it’ll still be a good deal. Epson makes good projectors with long bulb life, I trust this brand to hold up for many years to come.
  • Not as ideal example: Epson Home Cinema 2150, $600, 2500 Lumens, Refurbished, 1080p, 1 year left on the warranty. Buying this one new would cost around $700 on Amazon. That’s not that much more initial investment. This projector will be an awesome addition to any space you put it in, it’s worth that amount if you have a budget above $600.

With all the products the Best Buy guy mentioned to me during our call, I found it’s only a real steal if you can spend less than $500 on a bright DLP projector with minimal costs to extended warranties. 

Related Questions

How do you tell what the current bulb life is on a projector? There is no real way to tell how used the bulb is on a projector. Bulbs on DLP projectors can last thousands of hours, whereas LCD ones are in the hundreds. It’s more important to look into what type of projector and how old the model is. However, SOME models will have a settings option that lets you see the number of hours recorded while being turned on. But you won’t be able to know just looking at the product description on Best Buy, eBay, or Amazon.

Where is the best place to buy a used projector? Any place that can give you sufficient details regarding the product is good. If you’re buying from a place like eBay or the used section on Amazon, it’s good to get a personal feel for the seller. How much did the original customer use it and how much did they move it around? Did it sit in a dusty, compact area for most of its use? Little inquires like that can tell you a lot about what kind of condition it should be in.

Conclusion

Buying a used projector doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor! You just have to be aware of what to look for and know what constitutes a good deal. By the end of this article, I’m confident that this is all the information you need to make a sound purchase for whatever you decide to use your projector for.

Knowing what to look for was a completely foreign concept when my family purchased my first one! I wrote an article on our first dedicated projector purchase.  Buying it new was a better option because this was actually a good price for a projector of this quality.

As always, if you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out at entertainmentden.ns@gmail.com and I’ll do my best to respond. If you have any other article suggestions don’t hesitate to let me know as well. Thanks for reading and be sure to check back for the next article!

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Buying a used laptop: Where to find the best deals

Electronics

Buying a used or refurbished laptop doesn’t have to be a frustrating hassle. Whether you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime discount deal or just want a functional laptop for casual use, you can find one at a big-name retailer or local seller. Click to read more… 

Buying a refurbished or pre-owned laptop can be an exhausting process; from double-checking model and serial numbers, to confirming proper start up and build configuration, the burden of truth seems to rest squarely on the shoulders of buyers. 

Also: Buying a used Mac laptop: how to avoid scams and find the best deals

Thankfully, there are plenty of options out there if you’re looking for a good deal on a laptop and don’t mind that it’s not the latest and greatest tech. Big-name retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and even Apple have certified refurbished, open-box, and pre-owned tech covered by a myriad of return and exchange policies as well as limited warranties. They either have their own teams or use third-party suppliers to thoroughly inspect, clean, and repair units for resale so you can buy with confidence. The drawback is that you may not get the kinds of discounts you’d like to see, especially from Apple Certified Refurbished.

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2. Buying a used Mac laptop: how to avoid scams and find the best deals

If you’re willing to put in the work, you can also buy with confidence from sites like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and Craigslist. Craigslist is the most difficult to work with, since listings don’t include photos of what’s being sold, just text descriptions; this means you have to be willing to exchange contact information with sellers in order to get photo and video proof of working condition. Even then, it’s possible that this evidence has been faked in order to dupe you into buying a dud item or sending money without ever receiving your laptop. 

3. What should you do before buying a pre-owned laptop?

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  • If you’re considering buying a pre-owned laptop — whether it’s used or refurbished — from a local buy/sell/trade page, here are a few tips to keep in mind to protect yourself as well as your wallet:

  • Ask for proof 

    Buying used from a local seller is much different than walking into a big -name retail store and browsing their pre-owned items. You often can’t get your hands on the actual laptop to make sure it works. So you have to get creative. If a listing provides pictures that show the laptop is on and running properly, ask for a video of the entire boot-up sequence from black screen to home screen. You’ll be able to tell if the seller has made any cuts to hide problems or has faked the still photos. You should also ask for a photo of the laptop model and serial number; you can plug these into Google to find exact manufacture and release dates, build configurations, known issues, and any product recalls. This helps you to fact-check seller-provided information.

  • Never pay sight unseen

     If a seller is insistent that you send money via check, money order, or services like Venmo and PayPal before you ever lay eyes on the laptop, that’s a huge red flag. A reputable seller should have no issue with you asking to send payment after the item arrives (if able to be shipped to you) or after you’ve confirmed yourself that the laptop boots up properly during a meet-up sale. Sending payment after an item arrives in the mail or you can actually see it for yourself will save you a lot of heartache as well as cash; unlike typical online shopping, it’s a lot more difficult to get your money back from a bad Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist sale since it isn’t a business transaction. 

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