Low Level Format

[goodog]

Hi Guys

I need to do a low level format on a HDD to ensure that all data is completely and utterly wiped. I used to use a utility called INITHD.exe, really small and easy to use and completely reliable but....here's the thing, the only copy I have is on a floppy disc, do you think I can find a computer with a floppy disc drive.... :( Unbelievable but there you go, so, bottom line is I can't use the copy I have and I can no longer source one from the web....so, do any of you guys have a copy or something similar? If you have I would be very grateful if you could get me a copy.

Thanks in adavnce...

Goodog

[AYHJA]

You want to write 0's to a HDD that's already in a computer..?

[goodog]

Yeah, that's pretty much what I want to do, really to return the HDD to factory clean position, then start again with OS and apps. If you have something that would do that job, I would be grateful.

Thanks Uber.

Best Regards

Goodog

[AYHJA]

I guess what I'm trying to ask is if its imperative that no data be able to be recovered off of the drive...If that's the case, then what you want to do is write 0's...If all you want to do is format it, assuming that is not the main HDD in your system, You can use Windows to format it...

[5829]

if i really want do to wipe a disk I use this
it's free, it's got good reviews, it works for me

Darik's Boot and Nuke

Darik's Boot and Nuke ("DBAN") is a self-contained boot floppy that securely wipes the hard disks of most computers. DBAN will automatically and completely delete the contents of any hard disk that it can detect, which makes it an appropriate utility for bulk or emergency data destruction.

DBAN is a means of ensuring due diligence in computer recycling, a way of preventing identity theft if you want to sell a computer, and a good way to totally clean a Microsoft Windows installation of viruses and spyware. DBAN prevents or thoroughly hinders all known techniques of hard disk forensic analysis.

# Download DBAN for installation on CD and DVD media.
# Download DBAN for installation on floppy disks and USB flash drives.

http://dban.sourceforge.net/

[goodog]

Hey Uber

Thanks for the reply but I'm not just looking for a windows type format. I need to do a low level format so no data can be retrieved from the HDD, then start again to re-format and re-install the OS and apps. Thanks anyway, the app that 5829 has suggested looks like it will do what I want.
I should have added, the computer is being recycled and while the owner (not me...) has nothing to hide as such, they used it for on-line purchasing and banking and the like so, it's just better to be safe than sorry really...

Hey 5829

Thanks for this, this looks like the biz.

Thanks to all

Best Regards

Goodog

[AYHJA]

Ahh, great...

Nice one 5829...Another happy ending... :D