Disposing of an old PC

googler

bjbyorkshire wrote: »

I'm not going to keep anything as I won't be getting another desktop computer.

You can use it in a USB caddy with a laptop, if you're heading that way.

Either way, there's no need to destroy it. It's a small piece, doesn't take up much room - take it out of the PC, put it in a ziploc bag or a box, and tuck it away at the back of a cupboard or wardrobe.

You may well find you want to refer to it in future, and you don't want to regret destroying it at that stage......

KxMx

After one short YouTube video I got my hard drive out no problem when PC was replaced last year. It was so quick and all I needed was a screw driver. Like you i'd never been in there!

spud17

stator wrote: »

Download a program called DBAN and write it to a CD. Then boot your computer from the CD and wipe the whole thing. Then give your computer away on Freecycle, or look for a local non-profit who recycle computers. Put it to good use

If it's 24 yrs old, it may not boot from CD, does OP know how to boot from CD? No offence OP.

DBan is also available for floppy, which should work.

bjbyorkshire

Thanks folks, I got it out with the removal of lots of screws and a bit of wiggling. It is now awaiting a good bashing. As I said there really is nothing on there that I would want, I just don't want anyone else to have my personal photos etc.

You all gave great info to a non techie minded female.

My laptop is next for the skip as it is slow and takes ages to boot up but once it has done that and got warmed up it does seem OK. I mostly use an I pad these days as it is so instant but the laptop is required for certain jobs so I would replace that in time.

No more replies needed but thanks again.

bsod

unless the laptop is also 24 years old, no need to throw it away, re-install windows instead

BlueEyedGirl

I used a hammer on mine from both desktop and laptop... didn't get an electric shock and their was no way anyone was getting information of mine when I had finished!