I've had my new computer for a few months and have been intending to reformat my old dell xp and get rid of it, but have been putting it off thinking there may be something I need on the old one, but it doesn't look like it. I never did install my printer on my new computer, but it seems to work fine since it goes through the router. Anyway, I finally tried to format it and it wouldn't let me. It said to close all programs writing to the disk or something to that effect. I tried closing all that looked like were not needed, but it didn't work and then I closed something that locked the computer up. Any ideas how to do it? I tried a search on the internet, but it didn't help so I just went to format under the c: drive. btw, do I really have to reformat it since I intend to throw it out (the computer anyway, will still use the speakers and keep the monitor). I'm not sure if you can just rip it apart and break up the disk drive or something?
reformat help
- Thread starter Medsport
- Start date
Agent Smith
Well-Known Member
Use DBAN.
pane-free
Member
Or use SystemResceCD as it contains DBAN and gparted and other useful tools. You can download it here, FYI.
It's an ISO so if it'll have to be burnt in Windows, I'd recommend ImgBurn.
Just boot to the liveCD (cdrom drive) from the BIOS and . . .
Have fun!
I had a similar old drive, demolished it with a few blows with a 4-lb hammer. Helped vent some frustrations, too <G>
Bodaggit23
Active Member
Remove it from your old computer and install it into your new one.
Then you can format it within Windows and use it as additional storage.
pane-free
Member
Unetbootin has the utility SystemRescueCD all ready to go, no need to download the ISO. This is much easier than I had remembered.
Even easier if you just want to wipe data off the hdd is to place a 5-lb magnet on it overnight!
Even easier if you just want to wipe data off the hdd is to place a 5-lb magnet on it overnight!
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