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Disposing of computers?

I have 2 laptops and DH has a desktop and we're consolidating into 1 iMac (gets delivered on Friday!!!!!!) 

I see that Dell has a recycling program, but how do I get all of my information off my computer.  I don't mean copy stuff to disks - i've done that and deleted it from the computer - but I don't think anything is really "gone" on computers - so I don't want any of our personal information out there.  Is there a way to really wipe it clean?

Also, anyone know where I can get rid of a computer monitor?  It's completely broken and not worth donating.

Re: Disposing of computers?

  • I think Best Buy will take your monitor.  I'm not sure about totally wiping the hard drive, although I do know there's a way to do it.  Best Buy may be able to help you with that as well.
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  • The Montgomery County dump has a drop off place specifically for computers and monitors.

    As far as wiping your hard drive, there are programs online you can download that will do that for you. I usually just get my computer expert friend to do it for me, though.

  • thanks for posting this! we have two very old desktops that need disposal!
  • we have taken our old laptops to the Mo Co Dump, after taking out the hard drives and DH wiping them.  He takes the hard drives separately, I think.  Jenn
  • imagecep1976:

    The Montgomery County dump has a drop off place specifically for computers and monitors.

    Ditto. The Shady Grove transfer station has a recycle dropoff for computers, but since they may be used again, you'd want to ensure they're wiped clean.

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  • There is software online that will allow you to wipe the drives if you want to then leave them in a state to be reuseable again later. Everything below is nerdy and extreme...don't laugh at me :-)

    The most permanent way to destroy a hard drive if you don't want someone to ever use it again is to take the electronic board off the back (hard drives are pretty easy to remove from both desktops and laptops) and then scratch the plates up and/or drill a hole in it. Pretty extreme, but it will ensure your data can't be retrieved. (I'm in IT forensics so we tend to go to the max if I don't wipe with professional tools - I don't trust the online stuff...though I'm sure it's fine).

  • Do you have any IT friends?  DH has disks that clear off the hard drive to ensure everything is gone.  I am certain all computer guys keep them in their arsenal.
  • FYI. Goodwill also takes old computers and monitors. They must still work.
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