ACE146
Mechanically Destroying Storage Devices – Hard Drive
It is important to use proper personal protection equipment (eg. Safety glasses,
gloves, etc.) when working with tools, power tools, or using blunt force to destroy an
HDD. Use good judgment and caution!
HDD:
There are several ways to disable/destroy a hard drive mechanically/physically, but these
directions will discuss how to do it with commonly available tools.
For instruction on how to remove the HDD and/or SSD refer to the “Data Storage Devices”
section of this manual above.
Once the HDD is uninstalled the following can be done to physically destroy the unit so it can no
longer be used.
Step 1: Unscrew the metal casing on the hard drive (the screws vary on model, but are usually
Torx or flathead)
Step 2: Remove the read/write arm (the triangular magnet that extends over the metal disk)
Step 3: Scratch the disk with something sharp, breaking it into pieces if possible
Step 4: Remove/destroy the circuit board inside the drive
If a screwdriver cannot be used to access the internal components of the HDD, inflicting severe
damage with a blunt object, rock, hammer, etc. will destroy the HDD beyond repair.
Additionally, using a drill press, or drill of sorts to drill through the HDD will also destroy the
HDD beyond repair.
SSD:
The process for destroying an SSD is much simpler, it can simply be destroyed beyond use,
there is no protective outer cover. Use of a hammer, stomping on the component, breaking in
half, etc. are all simple examples of how to destroy the SSD beyond use.
Disposal:
Refer to the “Digital Storage Devices” Section of the manual above for details on how to
properly dispose of HDD’s and SSD’s.
Replacement Hard drives
Refer to the section below titled “Upgrade, Service, and Repair” for information on how to
replace your hard drive in the event it was required to be destroyed after removing personal
information.
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