What Sells: Monitors & Projectors

LCD or liquid crystal display (flat-panel) monitors are very popular with consumers and are relatively easy to sell online; they’re also easier to ship than CRT (cathode ray tube) monitors and command much higher sale prices. However, the sale value for an LCD monitor will be far less than the retail price paid for the same monitor even a year ago.

Before agreeing to sell computer equipment, research specific models to verify market demand and salability of an item before listing it to an online marketplace.

If you don’t know all of the item’s details, check the manufacturer’s website; they often have product catalogs online that list detailed specifications.

Visit the website at http://reviews.cnet.com/ for product reviews for monitors and projectors that are not more than one or two years old.

Monitors should be tested before being listed. Testing can be very time-consuming and involved; if you plan to sell a lot of computers, consider setting up a special testing station with a CPU, monitor, and peripherals.

Things to test:

• Power on/off
• Display is clear and bright
• All pixels work (no blacked-out areas on the screen and no pixels permanently on)
• Display controls work (brightness, color balance)

Also, make sure all cables and power adapters are included.

Make sure that the monitor or projector has a legible serial number (thieves will often remove or deface this before selling a stolen unit). If the serial number has been removed or the item has an asset tag (sticker that says it belongs to a company), thoroughly research the item before agreeing to sell it.

Include data specifications in the listing; you can find these in the manual or on the manufacturer’s website for newer models.

Whenever possible, use the original packaging. Monitor and projectors should be stored in a well-ventilated room, away from children, pets and smoke. Don’t place an item next to heating vents or air conditioners either, since temperature/humidity changes can cause damage.

Monitors and projectors should be double-boxed for protection, and shipments should be insured. Use the original packaging whenever possible to store and ship monitors and projectors. If the original packaging is unavailable, use boxes made of a durable corrugated cardboard and a cushioning material, on all six sides, to protect the item from shock. Foam is best, but bubble wrap can be used as a substitute. Do not use styrofoam, peanuts, or popcorn in the inner box. Remove all accessories, including cables and remotes, wrap them separately and place them in the box away from the item.