A Guide to Recycling Electronics

Socket Lever Shape: The metallic lever that secures the CPU features a unique "fish hook" or curved design. Socket Cutouts: The LGA socket (for instance, LGA 1155, 1150, 1200) is framed in a rectangular metal casing with two small, rectangular cutouts on opposite ends to assist with CPU alignment. Backplate Markings: Typically, the socket manufacturer (such as Foxconn or Tyco/AMP) is imprinted on the metal loading mechanism. Socket Identifier: The plastic casing of the socket is frequently marked with the specific LGA number, like "LGA115X" or "LGA1200" Remove heat sinks and batteries.

CPU Socket: P4 motherboards mainly utilize Socket 478 (a square socket equipped with a plastic lever) or the earlier Socket 775 (Land Grid Array). Look for Model Numbers: The model name/number is typically printed by manufacturers directly on the motherboard PCB, often located near the CPU socket, between PCI slots, or along the edge. AGP Slot: A number of P4 boards come with an Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot, which is generally brown or a different hue compared to the PCI slots. RAM Slots: Check for DDR1 (Socket 478) or early DDR2 (Socket 775) memory slots. Remove heat sinks and batteries.

Large Socket Motherboards feature a square opening in the middle of the socket that can accommodate a US quarter. These motherboards can come in any color. Slot Processor Motherboards are also considered Large Socket Motherboards. Be sure to take out all batteries and heatsinks.

Gold Pins (Contacts): The bottom edge has "gold fingers" that connect to the motherboard slot. Modern PCIe cards often have a small key notch in this row. Metal Backplate: A metal bracket on the edge secures the card to the computer case and holds external ports (e.g., HDMI, USB, Ethernet). Size Variance: Sizes vary by function, from short cards (x1) for Wi-Fi to long, large cards (x16) for graphics. Components: The board is covered with resistors, capacitors, and a main controller chip. Remove heatsinks and fans.