How to Discard Floppy Discs
You just pulled out a huge box of 3.5-inch and 5.25-inch floppy discs. The discs are loaded with data and programming files that you haven't used in years. Like other computer media, floppy discs should be disposed of properly so no one can view the data that is on the disc and misuse the sensitive information. To discard floppy discs, copy any information you want from the discs on to another computer medium before destroying the discs.
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Things You'll Need
- Floppy disc drive, external or internal
- Bulk head eraser, neodymium magnets or scissors
- Trash bag
Instructions
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Insert the floppy disc into a floppy drive on a computer. If you can't find a computer with a floppy drive, consider purchasing a external or internal drive and installing it in your computer system.
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From the Start menu, choose "My Computer." Double-click on the floppy disc icon.
If using a Macintosh computer, you will see the floppy disc icon on your "Desktop." Double click on the floppy disc icon to see the contents of the disc.
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Highlight the files on the floppy disc you want to copy. Right-click on the first filename and select "Copy" to copy the files or "Move" to copy and remove the files from the floppy disc.
If on a Macintosh, highlight the files on the disc.
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Navigate to the directory where you want to store the floppy disc files. Right-click in the directory window and select "Paste."
If on a Macintosh, press the "Option" key and drag the files where you want the copy to be.
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Remove the floppy disc from the floppy drive.
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Plug in a bulk head eraser (found at RadioShack and other electronics stores) and rub the device over the floppy disc for one minutes. Turn the floppy disc over and rub the device over the other side of the disc for another minute.
If you don't have a bulk head eraser, use two neodymium magnets--rub the magnets over the floppy disc surface for one minute per side. The magnets are found online and at hardware/home improvement stores.
Or, cut the floppy disc into pieces with a pair of scissors.
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Place the destroyed floppy disc in a trash bag.
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Repeat steps for the next floppy disc you want to discard.
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Place the trash bag containing the destroyed floppy discs in your household trash container.
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Tips & Warnings
If using neodymium magnets, be careful not to get the magnets stuck together. These magnets are strong and are hard to pull apart.
