The myth of the Magnets

[Aguiluz]

They say bringing a magnet to a computer will permanently wreck it. Is it true? Or does it destroy data on the magnetic HDD? Will replacing magnetic HDDs with a solid state hard drive make it magnet proof?

[casecutter]

The worst that a magnet could possible do is mess with the hard drive, otherwise there is nothing else inside a PC that can be effected by field. PLUS, you need a helluva powerful magnet to wreck a hard drive. This is mostly a myth.

[bobletman]

Originally Posted by casecutter

The worst that a magnet could possible do is mess with the hard drive, otherwise there is nothing else inside a PC that can be effected by field. PLUS, you need a helluva powerful magnet to wreck a hard drive. This is mostly a myth.

The only other thing a magnet could reck is a floppy drive but like, and like casecutter said u need a very powerful magnet to wreck a harddrive, usually u need a electically powered magnet. So you shouldnt owrry

[Aguiluz]

Phew! Thanks guys! now I can let my friend play his "magnetix" while I browse the net, and I can remove the "no-magnets-allowed-within-20-paces-or-get-out" rule.

[fenderguy2112]

Myth

[Kheldar]

I've seen reports that laptop HD's can be destroyed by magnets (particulary usb GPS) - the magnet cause the read head to smack into the platter thus destroying the drive.

[Technogeek]

Just as Kheldar said, I know this to be true. I have destroyed a HDD with a magnet, and not a hugh one. Yes it was on, and It was for a test in one of my computer classes. The teacher asked us this very same question, so we deiced to try it. We held the magnet to the HDD when the computer was off, and when it was on. When it was off, nothing occured, but when it was on, the hard drive became corrupt, and had errors all though it. It would not work, and could not be repaired. It did make some noise when we stuck that magent next to it.

[devilsmaster]

Thanks for providing this info.I would be aware in near future.