You can reformat and overwrite that old hard drive as many times as you want before junking it, and modern forensics software can still extract data from it. The Drive eRazer Ultra, however, can expunge your sensitive data to DoD specifications.
The Drive eRazer Ultra by Wiebetech is a standalone device for securely erasing hard drive data. It works natively with SATA and IDE/PAT drives, clearing them by overwriting every bit with a 0 — there’s simply nothing left to recover from the plate.
The process is relatively speedy, averaging about 7GB/min for newer drives. Its Secure Erase mode — one of many available, including user-generated programs — eliminates data left at the end of partly overwritten blocks, directories, partitions and Host Protected Areas. And unlike, say, a degaussing machine or a comically large magnet, the drive remains usable afterwards. The Drive eRazer Ultra retails for 249 CHF ($US274) at the Wiebetech website. [TNW]