PINS

In electronics, pins are small metal terminals found on components such as CPUs, integrated circuits (ICs), and connectors. These pins serve as critical contact points, allowing electrical signals and power to flow between the component and the circuit board.

In vintage processors, especially ceramic CPUs and ICs, pins are often made from or coated with precious metals like gold or silver, which enhance conductivity and prevent corrosion. This makes them highly valuable not just for functionality, but also for gold scrap recovery.

Collectors and recyclers alike seek out gold-plated pins found on older CPUs and electronic parts due to their material worth and durability. The unique designs, such as long gold pins on 1980s processors, are iconic features of retro tech—and important sources of recyclable gold content in the e-waste recovery industry.