The hard drive’s data is recorded and read by a read/write arm that sits above the platters. Platters are circular disks that look like CDs or DVDs, and spin rapidly on a center spindle. Photo: STEP 3: Remove the read/write arm, and scratch the platters with a screwdriver to destroy data.Ī hard drive’s metal casing protects the internal components, preserving data stored on the platters, and when the casing is removed the platters are exposed. Related: The Best Precision Screwdriver Sets for Your Projects Cover your bases by purchasing a precision screwdriver set, which comes with screwdrivers in a variety of shapes and sizes. Once located, remove the hard drive from the computer.ĭepending on the manufacturer, type of computer, and age of the computer, the type and number of screws that you’ll need to remove will vary. Use a precision screwdriver to remove the casing from the computer and locate the hard drive-it looks like a slim, rectangular metal box. STEP 1: Remove the hard drive from your computer. If you don’t, the information will be lost and irretrievable. Move this data to a new computer or external hard drive, or upload it to a cloud storage service before destroying the old hard drive. BEFORE YOU BEGINĭon’t begin this process until you have backed up all of the documents on the hard drive (including pictures and videos) that you want to keep. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to and affiliated sites.

How to clear a computer hard drive