HardDiskDrive
From SciSalvage
Contents |
[edit]
Useful Components
- Super magnets
- Stepper motor
- Bearings
- Cast metal (if you're into home foundries)
- The hard disk itself is shiny and makes a nice target for your BB gun, ringing in a satisfying way when you hit it.
- Did I mention super magnets? Lotsa fun!
[edit]
Dismantling Tips
- Sometimes that last annoying screw is hidden by a sticker. Peel them off if you can't get the case open or the circuit board off.
- Sometimes the screws have impossible 5 star heads. You can use a Dremel cutting wheel to slice a slot across these screws, and then a jeweler's slot screwdriver will work just fine.
- The super magnets are not usually glued down very hard, since the magnets hold themselves in place pretty well. Unscrew the keeper, and very carefully pry the magnet off the metal with a screwdriver. I've never had any trouble getting them off, but they can break, so once you crack the glue joint (if there's any glue at all), just push them off with a sliding motion.
- If you want the disks to stay shiny, handle them by the edges only; they tarnish really easily
[edit]
Safety Points
- The super magnets are strong. Beware of pinched fingers when they're attracted to something.
- The super magnets are also brittle. As you pry them loose they can break, and tiny bits can fly off. Not a bad idea to wear safety glasses.
- Definitely wear safety glasses if you're using a Dremel cutting wheel!
[edit]
Where to Find
- These days discarded hard disk drives are almost ubiquitous. Ask around if you don't already know.
