You can dramatically extend the life of your company’s computers by buying Intel refurbished processors and CPUs. Used or reconditioned Intel products can also significantly increase your company’s computing power without costing a lot of money. Intel motherboards use either a CPU socket or a CPU slot to accept the processor. Slots were used in the 1990s, but newer technology uses a CPU socket. A socket processor has pins on the underside that plug into the socket.

Intel refurbished product had a flaw at some point and needed to be sent back to the manufacturer or retailer, who fixed it and is selling it again for a lower price. When researching suppliers of used Intel processors and CPUs, you should consider the following:

1. Identify what types of computer systems you want to upgrade with used Intel processors.

2. Decide if you want certified refurbished Intel products.

3. Compare the warranty that comes with the Intel refurbished product.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a supplier that carries a variety of Intel used and refurbished products

If your company has a wide range of Intel-based computer that you need to upgrade, there are suppliers than carry several types of reconditioned Intel processors. The Socket 478 is a type of CPU socket used for Intel's Pentium 4, Celeron, Celeron D and Pentium M series CPUs. The Socket 775, is Intel's latest desktop CPU socket for Pentium 4, Pentium D and Core 2 Duo processors.

I recommend: Evertek Computer sells Intel used and refurbished products with either a 30-day or 90-day warranty. They offer quantity discounts when ordering four or more products. Preloved Computers sells refurbished Intel processors, including Pentium, Celeron and Xeon. They also carry the older Socket 370 that works with the Pentium III.

Buy certified refurbished Intel processors

Certified refurbished Intel products are sent back to the manufacturer where they are put through the production process and then tested to ensure they meet all original factory specifications. They often come with a warranty whereas used Intel products may not.

I recommend: Compuvest carries manufacturer reconditioned Intel processors. They sell processors that work with older Slot 2 and Socket 360 technology, which may be harder to find. PriceGuideNetwork.com sells a recertified Pentium 4 processor.

Buy Intel refurbished products for specific computers and laptops

Certain models of computers and laptops only work with particular Intel products. You will have to find a supplier that carries used Intel processors and CPUs that work with your company's computers.

I recommend: Serverworlds has a wide selection of Intel refurbished processors that come with a 30-way warranty. They carry used Intel refurbished products for Compaq, HP, IBM and Dell. DiscountElectronics.com sells Intel refurbished CPUs for Dell computers and laptops. Everything has been tested and comes with a 90-day warranty.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Upgrading computers with Intel used products also reduces the amount of computer equipment your company has to dispose of.