Erase a CD in style with high voltage electricity

Science

Youtube user Photonicinduction shows how to erase a CD using a high voltage step up transformer. It’s probably not the most efficient way to go about things, but it does look cool! [Thanks, Matt!]

20 thoughts on “Erase a CD in style with high voltage electricity

  1. Anonymous says:

    I’m fairly sure the reflective layer necessary for read/write operations is being vaporized, leaving a nonfunctional translucent plastic disc.

    Very neat either way.

    1. Chris Hamlin says:

      I think that’s what’s meant by “erase”. the goal here seems to be to render sensitive data totally unrecoverable, same idea as melting your hard drive with thermite, etc.

  2. James H. Vooght says:

    3 seconds in a microwave oven does the same thing.

  3. Anonymous says:

    I wouldn’t want to breathe the fumes

  4. mpechner says:

    I’m a microwave man myself.

  5. Anonymous says:

    Who cares if if’s the most efficient way or not–it makes “erasing” a CD FUN!

  6. Keruru Ishibashi says:

    This is necessary for the family by one.

  7. USB 3G says:

    Oh nice, thanks for your information!

  8. JAmes says:

    Interesting how it’s clear afterwards, although i prefer the pretty patterns that the microwave does.

  9. voucher says:

    A stationary motor such as a winch is easily provided with a supply of power, but a motor that moves with its application, such as an electric vehicle, is obliged to either carry along a power source such as a battery, or to collect current from a sliding contact such as a pantograph, placing restrictions on its range or performance.

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