Re: Data protection

Michael Lorrey (retroman@tpk.net)
Tue, 18 Mar 1997 18:37:29 -0500


Robert Schrader wrote:
>
> Awhile back, someone - I forget who - made the comment that the only
> way to really erase data was with thermite. I'm not sure if the comment
> was indended literally, but...
>
> Basic thermite is just a combination of aluminum powder and iron oxide.
> ( hydroxide? I forget ) Sounds pretty similar to the composition of the
> platter itself. Is it possible to make a platter of cast thermite?
>
> If so, this opens up new horizons for really secure data.
>
> The microproccesor in the drive mechanism could be instructed to ask
> for a key at start-up. If it doesn't get it, it refuses to seek data.
> If it gets several consecutive bad keys, it ignites the disk.
>
> It should be possible to rig a dead-man switch so that the case cannot be
> forced open without turning the platter into molten slag.
>
> For the really paranoid, a cmos clock chip and battery could be added
> internally. If a period of several days goes by without the microprocessor
> getting the key, it ignites the disk. ( Of course the time period should
> be programmable so that one can take vacations )
>
> Robert Schrader rms@cts.com

Here's a more "active" approach: Have a small canister of 90% pure H202
(hydrogen peroxide) that sprays onto the disk when it ignites.

-- 
TANSTAAFL!!!

Michael Lorrey ------------------------------------------------------------ President retroman@tpk.net Northstar Technologies Agent Lorrey@ThePentagon.com Inventor of the Lorrey Drive Silo_1013@ThePentagon.com

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