Support Technology Access

Plugged In depends upon the tremendous support we receive from organizations and individuals who contribute in a variety of ways by volunteering, donating equipment, and through generous financial contributions.

Plugged In is a community technology center and self-paced learning studio. Community members of all ages use computers to do online research, work on resumes and complete homework assignments. The area is also used as a virtual office allowing people to utilize our technology infrastructure for everything from bookkeeping to maintaining websites.

Our Computer Layout at Plugged In.

Key for Equipment Map

Summary of Information Systems Equipment:

Plugged In's three programs use about 45 computers. Most of these are Windows-based PCs; the remainder are Apple Macintosh computers. Local companies and individuals have donated the majority of our computers and networking equipment. Of the Windows-compatible PCs, almost all of them have been donated by Hewlett-Packard. We have an Ethernet-based network that consists of a Cisco router and 10/100 Cisco switch. A full-time systems administrator is responsible for maintaining the computers, networking, and Internet connection.

If you are interested in donating software, computer hardware, or other equipment, please send e-mail to donations.pi@pluggedin.org. At this time we are unable to accept unsolicited donations. Please make an appointment using the e-mail address above.

Unfortunately, we do not presently have the infrastructure to handle donations of old or non-functioning computer equipment.

Plugged In is always happy to receive donations. Click the link for our Hardware Acceptance List.

Items that are very much needed and appreciated are:

Network Capable Laser Printers Keyboards and Mice
Switches and Hubs
Flatbed Scanners
Monitors (17 inch +)
USB and Parallel Zip Drives
Digital PC Cameras

If your computer doesn't meet our requirements or is too old please try donating it to the following places.

Techsoup
Hardware Recyclers and Refurbishers searchable by your area.

Computer Recycling Center
San Francisco,CA 94107
Tel: (415) 643-6200
Fax: (415) 643-6290
CathyL@crc.org

Computer Recycling Center
2971 Mead Avenue
Santa Clara,CA95051
Tel: (408) 327-1800
Fax: (408) 327-1801
info@crc.org

To recycle your broken monitor please contact the following organizations:

HMR USA Global Recycling
435 23rd Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
Tel: (415) 647-6071
administrator@hmrusa.com

BFI Peninsula Transfer Station
225 Shoreway Road
San Carlos, CA
Tel: (650) 592-0255
They do charge $17 per monitor. All other computer equipment is free.