Early-game quests in ARC Raiders can be surprisingly tricky if you don’t know where to look for specific items. The Trash Into Treasure quest from trader Shani is a perfect example—it sounds simple enough, but finding wires and batteries on Topside isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
If you’re scratching your head wondering where these electrical components spawn, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through the best locations to farm wires and batteries, plus some smart strategies to complete this quest efficiently and get those sweet rewards.
What Is the Trash Into Treasure Quest?
Trash Into Treasure is an early trader quest given by Shani in Speranza. Your objective is simple: head Topside, collect wires and batteries, then bring them back safely.
Quest Requirements:
- Find wires (multiple pieces recommended)
- Find a battery (at least one)
- Successfully extract and return to Speranza
The rewards make this quest worth your time:
- XP for leveling up (helpful for reaching max level faster)
- 1x Tactical MK.1 (useful gear for your loadout)
- 3x Adrenaline Shots (clutch healing items for tough situations)
Since you’re still in the early stages of the game, these rewards will give you a solid boost. Now let’s find those components.
Best Locations to Find Wires & Batteries
The key to finding wires and batteries quickly is understanding where they spawn. These aren’t random drops—they’re tied to specific loot categories and building types.
Target Electrical and Tech-Heavy Areas
Wires and batteries are electrical components, so they naturally spawn in locations with technological or power-related loot. Here’s what to look for on your map:
Prime locations include:
- Power stations and electrical substations
- Command centers with computer equipment
- Industrial buildings with generators
- Research facilities with electronic equipment
- Any area marked with electrical/tech loot icons
Specific Loot Sources for Batteries
Batteries can be found directly or extracted from electronic devices. Here’s where to search:
Direct battery spawns:
- Lockers in electrical facilities
- Drawers near workbenches
- Crates in storage rooms
- Shelves in command centers
Items to recycle for batteries:
- CRT monitors (your best bet—high battery drop rate)
- Electronic devices on desks
- Old computer equipment
- Portable radios or communication devices
Pro tip: CRT monitors are usually found near command consoles or control rooms. If you spot one of these bulky old-school monitors, grab it immediately. They’re one of the most reliable sources for batteries in the game.
Specific Loot Sources for Wires
Wires are slightly more common than batteries, but you still need to know where to look:
Direct wire spawns:
- Electric panels (inside and outside buildings)
- Generators (often on building exteriors)
- Junction boxes
- Tool storage areas
Items to recycle for wires:
- Computer power cables (excellent wire source)
- Extension cords
- Damaged electrical equipment
- Cable spools
Key locations: Don’t ignore the exteriors of buildings. Generators and electrical panels mounted on outside walls are easy to miss but often contain wires or recyclable components.
Step-by-Step Farming Strategy
Want to maximize your efficiency? Follow this approach:
1. Plan Your Route
Before dropping into a raid, study the Topside map and identify 2-3 electrical facilities close to each other. This lets you hit multiple loot spots without burning too much time or running into unnecessary combat.
2. Loot Systematically
When you enter a building:
- Check every locker and drawer
- Examine desks for CRT monitors and cables
- Search exterior walls for generators and panels
- Look for recyclable electronics on shelves
- Don’t skip storage rooms or maintenance areas
3. Recycle Smart
You’ll likely find more recyclable items than direct spawns. Prioritize:
- CRT monitors for batteries
- Power cables for wires
- Any electronic device you can break down
Make sure you understand crafting and farming mechanics so you know what’s worth carrying.
4. Secure Your Loot
This is critical: as soon as you find a battery or wires, put at least one of each in your Safe Pocket. Safe Pockets protect items from being lost if you die, which means you’ll keep quest progress even if the worst happens.
5. Watch for Enemy Players
Here’s a sneaky strategy: if you encounter other players near electrical facilities, there’s a good chance they’re also hunting for wires and batteries. If you can safely take them down, loot their bodies—they might have already done the hard work for you.
Just be smart about engagements. If you’re undergeared, it might be better to avoid conflict and focus on extraction. You can always return for more loot later.
Extraction and Quest Completion Tips
Once you’ve collected the necessary components, your job isn’t done yet. You still need to extract safely and turn in the quest.
Getting Out Alive
- Head to the nearest extraction point – Don’t get greedy trying to farm more loot. Check our extraction guide if you’re unfamiliar with how it works.
- Avoid unnecessary fights – You’re carrying quest items. Every combat encounter is a risk.
- Use terrain and cover – ARCs and enemy players are both threats. Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Consider a Raider Hatch Key if you have one – These provide safer, faster extractions.
Turning In the Quest
Back at Speranza, head to Shani’s trader menu and complete the Trash Into Treasure quest. You’ll immediately receive your rewards, which should give you a nice XP boost and some useful gear for your next raids.
If you’re working on multiple quests simultaneously, consider combining this with other objectives like Greasing Her Palms to maximize efficiency.
Additional Tips for New Players
Since Trash Into Treasure is an early quest, here are some broader tips to help you succeed:
Upgrade your gear first – Before tackling quests, make sure you’ve visited the Gunsmith and Workshop to improve your loadout.
Unlock important skills – Some skills should be prioritized early to make questing easier.
Increase your storage – More stash and backpack space means you can carry more loot per raid.
Farm coins efficiently – Need funds for upgrades? Check our money-making guide.
Learn the maps – Familiarize yourself with key areas. Our guides on finding Prickly Pears, Mushrooms, and Lemons & Apricots will help you navigate efficiently.
Understand shields – Knowing all shield types and recharge mechanics can save your life.
Play with friends – Quests are easier with backup. Learn how to team up for a smoother experience.
Why Electrical Components Matter Beyond This Quest
While you’re specifically farming wires and batteries for Trash Into Treasure, these components are useful throughout the game. You’ll need them for:
- Crafting advanced equipment
- Repairing damaged gear
- Upgrading workbench tiers
- Completing future quests
So even if you find more than the quest requires, hold onto the extras. They’ll come in handy later, especially when you’re working on upgrading your workbench or crafting specialized tools.
Final Thoughts
The Trash Into Treasure quest is a great introduction to ARC Raiders’ looting and extraction systems. It teaches you to target specific locations, prioritize valuable items, and extract safely—all essential skills for progressing in the game.
By focusing on electrical facilities, checking for CRT monitors and power cables, and using your Safe Pockets wisely, you’ll knock out this quest in no time. The rewards are worth it, and the experience you gain (both XP and knowledge) will serve you well in tougher missions ahead.
Now get out there, find those components, and show Shani you know how to turn trash into treasure!
Available on: PlayStation | Xbox | Official Site
