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

[Dale <rdalek1967@gmail.com>]

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?
>
> - Grant
>
>   

Someone may correct me but I don't think it will blink since it is not 
mounted.

On the other hand, you sure you are erasing the hard drive and not the 
USB thingy?  I ask cause it sounds like something I would do.  I 
recently erased /home instead of the /backup/home.  lol  Small typo there.

Dale

:-)  :-)