As the electronics industry has grown, incorporating electronic instruments has become popular choice for musicians all of genres. Today’s digital instruments range from keyboards and electronic drums and guitars, to computing devices that create beats and sounds. As these instruments become more common, more musicians are looking for answers on how to dispose outdated or broken instruments or their separate parts. Although there are a variety of digital instruments, many of them contain similar parts that may or may not be recyclable. A common digital instrument is the electronic keyboard. The typical electronic keyboard is made up of these main components:

• Musical keyboard
• User interface software
• Rhythm, chord and sound generator
• Amplifier

Musical keyboard

Digital instruments generally use a keyboard matrix circuit in a musical keyboard, which consists of 16 rough steel wires. These components are not recyclable on their own, but consumers can consult stores with takeback programs, such as Best Buy, if they can be returned.

User interface software

User interface software is a program usually contained within a computer chip that allows man and machine to interact. In digital instruments, UI software allows musicians to select tones, effects and more. Computer chips carry a circuit and are often made out of materials from the natural environment such as sand and water. Manufacturers are working to create an environmentally friendly computer chip, but in the meantime they are sought-after commodities. Check your local listings for companies that accept these materials.

Rhythm, chord and sound generator

These generators are comprised of software programs that produce rhythms, chords and sounds with Musical Instrument Digital Interface, or MIDI, electronic commands. Like UI software, they are usually made up of computer chips or circuits, which can potentially be reused or taken to a scrap recycler.

Amplifier

Amplifiers are made of wires, batteries and a circuit board — items that can potentially be recycled at your local recycling center. If there is not a center nearby to send these items, consult with local commodities companies to see if they offer takeback program for these items.