[Lurker]

Here's what I do with old computers:

Step 1.) Defrag drive.

Step 2.) Run PGP Wipe at DOD Spec 4 times.

Step 3.) Remove hard drive and expose to a large magnetic field from a 5 pound horseshoe type magnet.

Step 4.) While hard drive is out of the computer, strike it repeatedly with a claw hammer until it is rendered into tiny pieces.

Step 5.) Sweep up tiny pieces of hard drive and toss into either fireplace (winter) or back yard fire pit (summer).

Step 6.) Build large roaring fire in either fireplace or fire pit depending on season.

Step 7.) Take carcass of computer to gun range and invite friends to 'have at it' with rifles, pistols, and shot guns.

Following these seven simple and fun steps will assure that your personal data doesn't fall into the wrong hands.

L

[axes_of_weezles]

Re Step#3:

Take the HDD apart prior to smashing it.
The disks make good targets after demagnetizing/scoring with a wire brush. At least the old metal ones. The newer drives are glass substrate.

[Covenantor]

My hard disk fragmenter of choice.