(9/8/2009) - Retro-Tech's current recycler is no longer accepting TVs or house hold goods for recycling. We have no other choice than to no longer accept items for recycling as we now have no way to dispose of them. We are currently searching for another recycler who will accept them. Once we have a way to dispose of them properly (we will not dispose of them in an environmentally unsafe way), we should be able to resume recycling. A new fees schedule will then be in effect as the current shcedule was based on costs from our old processor.

We continue to accept computer systems and computer parts, however we no longer take computer monitors.

The bottleneck is caused by the fall of commodities prices. The State of Illinois will have a new recycling program in effect January 2010. It is recommended that you save your electronics for recycling after the first of the year.

(9/2/2009) - Our bench fee is $30 due up front. That $30 entitles you to a half hour of tech time to diagnose your problem and determine the repair. If we can fix your problem in that half hour, the repair is included in the $30.

Our typical repair is only $30, as most problems which plague users are simple. You will be called if it requires more than the bench fee (half hour) to repair. Time is measured in tech time - if it takes an hour to reload your system, you are charged for the tech time to set it up and finish up - not for time to sit and watch the reload run.

We charge the same standard repair rate for all activities. No extra charge for networking, data recovery, web development or other special services.

We quote 3 to 5 days for all repairs. Some take less, but we can't commit to faster service as ours is an all volunteer shop. Sometimes when we have to order a part it make take longer, but you will be told that when we ask permission to spend your money to buy the part.

(7/22/2009) - We have just finished our bi-annual repricing for back to school and reduced most computer systems by approximately 20%. Come in to the store and see what your money can get now.

Retro's prices are always competitive but the computer industry is always providing bigger and faster computers and prices are always coming down. We, too, reprice our machines twice a year to keep up with the current price trends, making speed and Internet access more affordable.

Prices on other items have also been reviewed and adjusted wherever we can. For example, we also dropped prices of VCR & DVD players by $5 to $20 and $25 respectively. VCR movies remain at $1 each as long as our supply holds out (the selection is becoming lmited - so better hurry).

Check our hours and stop in to see if we have what you want - now at even better prices.

(7/20/2009) - We have just received a number of Laptops that will be refurbished and offered for sale in the next week or two.

As those who have attempted to find laptops know, it's hard to find laptops in the used computer marketplace. This happens mostly because of the high demand for laptops that encourages people to give their old machines to friends, children and business associates.

These new laptops include a number of high-end models. Pricing should be between $125 & $375 depending on speed, capacity and features.

Our online application forms are now working. Whether you are looking to apply to one of our programs or to volunteer with us, all you need to do is fill out the form online & email it to us. We will get in touch and let you know what items you need to send via snail mail to complete the process.

Forms can be found in the Placements and Volunteer sections.

Although the recycling industry pipeline has become clogged and we have been forced to temporairly stop taken some things, we traditionally have always recycled all kinds of electronics. - We always said 'if it has a plug or a battery, we take it.' We will return to that plicy as soon as the marketplace stablizes so we can recieve computer systems, televisions and household appliances.

However, we recycle electronics, we don't accept soda cans, common plastic or large appliances like washers, dryers, stoves or refridgerators.

We do reluctantly charge a fee for monitors, televisions and some other expensive to recycle items. The lead and other elements in cathode ray tubes add to the cost of recycling to such an extent that we need subsidize the cost.

NOTE: We currently cannot accept many non-computer items that we used to take. The recycling landscape is changing in Illinois with a new law taking effect January 2010. Please call before bringing in items for recycling to be sure we can accept them. As our in house staff includes many computer experts we will continue to accept these for recycling.

We provide community service programs to assist the low income, physically challenged & students in need. Please contact us if you need support. Retro-Tech has provided as many as 200 computer systems in a month to the needing and deserving.

Reusable items not provided through our placement program are made available to the general public at attractive prices at our outlet store front. If you're looking for vintage, legacy or just affordable computers, televisions, stereo components or other electronics, look no further.

We have legacy television sets from $35 to $65. Sizes range from small kitchen top sets to the larger 27-32" models for the family or recreation room. We still have a few older style console models as well. All televisions are tested before being accepted for sale, and you can view them on our sales floor before you buy. Like all our products, they have a 30-day instore credit warranty.

We also provide low cost maintenance and repair of computer equipment.

Thank you for shopping at our store - it helps us to continue to provide our community services.

Would you like to be a part of our efforts? We are always looking for new volunteers and training is provided. Come in and lend a hand when it is convenient for you.

Don't have time but still want to help our cause? Financial donations are always welcomed and we can provide a tax deductible receipt for your generous contribution.