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Refurbished computers for schools
CANZ gets more computers into schools by encouraging appropriate re-use of machines that become available when companies and government organisations upgrade their office systems. The Trust works with the Ministry of Education to set standards for computer refurbishing and accredits commercial companies that follow the CANZ code of practice. These companies sell computers direct to schools and back them up with warranties and after-sales service. CANZ-branded computers are available in a wide range of specifications. Most are recently retired office machines – Pentium 4 and better – that handle most ICT activities in schools, at lower prices than new machines. Slower machines that handle core activities like word processing and the Internet are also available at very low prices. Computers can be supplied in class sets of the same make and model, which make them easier to support. For many schools, a mix of new and refurbished computers can be a sensible approach. CANZ computers are less expensive than new models, yet they handle almost all software used in schools today. (Some high-level graphics and video applications work better on new equipment.) When they reach the end of their useful life, CANZ refurbishers take them back for environmental recycling. CANZ was established in 1999 by the 2020 Communications Trust, with funding from the Ministry of Education. The Ministry still funds core CANZ activities, which also include advocating for environmentally responsible disposal of home and school computers that are at the end of their life. CANZ was the driving force behind the national 'e-Day' held in 2007 for collecting and safely disposing of home and school computers. It is working towards another e-Day later in 2008.
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