Description
The Value of Gold in CPUs
Gold has been used in electronics for decades because of its excellent conductivity, resistance to corrosion, and durability. Modern computer chips, especially older models, contain small quantities of gold in their connectors, pins, and bonding wires. Despite the low volume of gold in each chip, when accumulated in large amounts, this precious metal can add up to substantial value.
Typically, CPUs from the 90s and early 2000s contain a higher percentage of gold than modern processors. Many of these chips were built with more durable materials and more gold content, making them an ideal source for gold recovery.
Why is a CPU Scrap Lot of 31.7 Oz So Attractive?
1. Significant Weight for Gold Recovery
A lot of 31.7 oz (approximately 2 lbs.) is a relatively large amount of e-waste, especially considering the gold content in older CPUs. Larger lots like these provide a greater opportunity for extraction. The weight reflects a significant quantity of processors, which means there’s a higher chance of retrieving valuable gold from the internal components. More chips often translate to more precious metals.
2. Wide Variety of CPUs
Depending on the lot, it’s likely that the chips include a mix of Intel Pentium, AMD Athlon, Pentium Pro, and other older processors. Each of these CPUs contains different quantities of gold, but the accumulation from a wide variety of chips increases the overall chances of retrieving valuable materials.
3. Potential Profit
While you may not expect to find vast amounts of gold in each individual CPU, the collective weight of 31.7 oz offers a notable opportunity for profit. For example, gold-plated pins and bonding wires are commonly found on the legs of older processors, and even after refining, you can expect to recover a fair amount of pure gold. At the right price, this can quickly add up, especially when factoring in silver and palladium that may also be present in smaller quantities.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.