Re: [gentoo-user] {OT} Preparing a laptop for sale

[Marcus Wanner]

On 12/18/2009 6:05 PM, Grant wrote:
>>>> dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sda (or what ever)
>>>>
>>> After reading over all the info here, I think I'm going to go with dd
>>> since the data isn't too sensitive.
>>>
>>> I created a "9.1_Live_x64" USB key with unetbootin, but the laptop
>>> won't boot to it.  I have another 512MB USB key that it boots to just
>>> fine.  Could my 8GB key be non-bootable?  The laptop's CD drive isn't
>>> working so I need another way to install an easy copy of Linux after I
>>> dd.
>>>
>>>   - Grant
>>>
>> I've dealt with many systems that flatly refuse to boot from *some*
>> usb keys but not from others.. and some even vary based on what's
>> being booted into on those usb keys.
>>
> I used unetbootin to install Damn Small Linux on the 512MB bootable
> USB key, and I'm booted into it.  /dev/sda is my HD, and I'm running:
>
> dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sda
>
> The USB LED is blinking rapidly, but the HD LED is showing no
> activity.  Is there any way to tell if the HD is being wiped?
>
The hdd IS being wiped, if you have the right device (which you do, 
don't worry!). However, I would recommend running with if=/dev/urandom 
as that will overwrite it with random bits instead of just zero. 
However, since it's already being done with zeros and a hard drive would 
usually be sold with all bits set to zero, I think what you are doing 
will be fine.

Marcus