Template:A/V Overview

Overview
The goal of A/V Testing is to identify A/V devices that can be reused, ensure that they function properly, and prepare them for sale by the Thrift Store, Bulk Sales, or Online Sales. The path of an A/V device through Free Geek in general depends on the type and present state of the device in question, but a basic rundown is as follows:

Incoming!

 * A/V gizmo is donated to Free Geek at the Receiving area
 * Receiving staff or volunteers determine whether the device can be reused based on the A/V Triaging procedures:
 * A/V devices deemed unfit for reuse have any attached cords cut off and are taken to Recycling
 * A/V devices deemed potentially reusable are taken to the A/V storage area in the hallway near Receiving

Triage
A/V staff do a second triage pass, and then select specific devices for testing:
 * Certain types of devices (e.g. niche, vintage, or specialized equipment of limited interest to general public) are taken directly to the bulk buyer shelves in the Warehouse
 * Some devices which are more difficult to test may be taken directly to the Warehouse for storage
 * Testable devices are loaded onto one of the A/V Testing carts, which is taken to an available work area and set up for testing

Testing
Devices are tested according to the process laid out in the A/V Testing Procedures pages.

Distribution

 * Any device with a major functional failure is unplugged, the power cord is clipped, and is taken to Recycling
 * Devices with partial or minor failures are assessed by A/V staff on a case by case basis - most will be recycled, but some may still be usable and may be sent to Bulk Sales or the Thrift Store
 * Devices which pass all their tests are labeled as tested and sent to the Thrift Store, Bulk Sales, or Online Sales depending on the item type and its value