We’re surrounded by useful tech gadgets, but most of us use them in conventional ways. Your WiFi router streams the internet. Your printer...well, prints. Your tablet likely sits around streaming Netflix. But what if you could transform these ordinary devices into something much more useful with just a bit of tech know-how?
Get ready to twist your gadget's typical uses. In this blog, we uncover unconventional and surprising ways to use and repurpose your everyday tech gear:
Turn Your WiFi Router into a Productivity Powerhouse
Laptop running slow? Turn that unused router into a personal standing desk! Stack an old router and your laptop to customize a DIY adjustable-height desk perfect for getting work done in comfort.
Connect an external hard drive to that USB port to instantly add network accessible storage. Now you can stream files anywhere there's WiFi access.
And transform it into a VPN server for securely accessing things like your email and banking information on public networks when traveling. The use-cases for an old router are nearly endless!
Revamp Your Clunky Home Printer into a Handy Scanner
Scanners can be expensive. But many consumer printers actually include hidden scanning functions perfect for digitizing documents. Simply activate the scan feature in your model’s software settings to enjoy fast document scans delivered right to your desktop over WiFi.
You can even use printer scans as a poor man’s photobooth to digitize family photos, artwork, and more in a pinch. Way better than risky snack runs with irreplaceable images to the copy shop when you need to scan something!
Build a Surveillance System with Your Old Android Phone
Don’t trash that old Android phone just yet. With a bit of cleverness, it transforms into a motion-activated home security camera system!
Simply install a security camera app, enable motion-detection alerts, position the phone’s camera where you need coverage, and ensure it stays powered on. You’ve now got automated video monitoring and alerts without expensive camera purchase and installation.
You can even take things further by connecting the phone to a TV. Now the phone essentially operates as a full-time security feed right in your living room. Not bad for a gadget many would throw out or trade-in!
The ways everyday gadgets can spark into new tools are nearly endless with a bit of out-of-the-box thinking. I challenge you to take a fresh look at the electronics cluttering your life for new productivity potential. Your smart devices may be far more capable and useful than their everyday functions suggest!
What are some cool unconventional tech twists you’ve tried or discovered? Let me know in the comments!