How do I remove a hard drive from PC?

I'm about to retire a few old PCs through a recycling program. I'd like to remove the hard drives just to be certain that sensitive information doesn't get out there. Can someone take me through the steps?

 

so do you mean physically removing them? or wiping them clean?

physically its quite easy. remove the side case panel, unplug the hard drive from the motherboard and power supply, unscrew/unlatch the drive (there should be some sort of thing on the side holding it in place) and pull it out. once you see it you'll most likely be able to figure it out without any help.

welcome to majorgeeks :cool

 

Thanks Viper Boy. Yes, I want to physically remove it. Will "the hard drive" be obvious to a computer newbie like me? How can I tell where it is? I'm not sure I'd be able to tell a "motherboard" from a chalkboard.

 

Yeah, it's a pretty simple looking device; it'll look a lot like this.
http://www.recuperodati.net/img/image_maxtor.jpg
Just pull out the cables connected to it, there are no clips on the cables.

 

A 12 gauge with Deer Slugs works wonders on old hard drives. If not, a piece of Rebar, and a Sledge will do the same.

 

Also note that the other side of the drive may have screws holding it in place, as well (not just one side). I took the liberty of drawing arrows (on Ian's picture) where there may be screws to remove in order to free the drive. So, if there is a panel on the other side, you may have to remove it to be able to get to both sides of the drive to remove the screws.

 

Hehe. I would use my M4. I got it grouping so tight that I could probably destroy individual files of my choice .

 

thanks, everyone. I'll try it and let you know.