Data Destruction

All data is destroyed by default, using one or more of the following methods:

  • Multi - Pass Overwrite (most commonly utilized method) - Utilizes between 3 - 7 total write passes (most common is 3 write-passes, least common is 7-write passes) a pseudorandom pattern is utilized writing a "1" to all areas of hard drive on first pass, then "0" and so on. This effectively wipes/obliterates any data stored on a physical hard drive (HDD), SD and microSD memory cards (often utilized in camcorders, digital cameras, digital picture frames, GPS, Dash Cams, etc); Solid-State Hard Drive (SSD), and USB flash drive(s).

  • Magnetic Degaussing (infrequently used by consumers, most small businesses, and municipal governments such as Cities, School Districts, Towns, Villages, etc) - Please note that degaussing magnetic media (Internal / External Hard Drives; Magnetic tapes, etc) will render the device permanently unusable. This option has fallen out of favor, as it basically turns a computer hard drive into nothing but "scrap" that can't be reused. 

  • Physical Destruction (infrequently used due to the cost)

    Option 1     - The entire storage device - typically an internal hard drive is sent through a machine the size of a Toyota Corolla or even an SUV that physically chops/pulverizes the device into very small parts in a manner not unlike that of a large industrial sized wood chipper. [Expensive]

    *** Exception - A machine similar to an industrial size aluminum can shredder /chipper can be utilized to cost-effectively shred the following magnetic media - SD and microSD memory cards, Solid-State Hard Drive (SSD), USB flash drive. This is because these particular types of magnetic media don't have large/thick metal chassis. They are typically only circuit boards, plastic, with very thin aluminum/sheet metal type material for shielding USB connectors.

    Option 2 - The hard drive is physically punctured 1-3 times depending on its size utilizing a hydraulically powered ram that slams into the device with between 10 - 40 tons (PSI) pressure per square inch. 

We recognize there are times our customers need specific material recycled. However, in most instances, what is obsolete for one entity still has life for another.​

Reuse plays a vital role in diverting material that can be reused from the electronics waste stream. Adhering to this principle allows us to divert viable material from the waste stream.

The reuse of electrical & electronic devices allows WI DNR registered E-cycle Collectors to continue accepting many items at no charge. It also allows collectors to keep the cost low when we ship the various hazardous materials commonly found in electrical and electronic devices to WI DNR registered Electronics Recyclers such as - Cadmium, Chromium (hexavalent chromium), flame retardants like polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE), and certain phthalates, Lead, Lead-Acid batteries, Lithium, Mercury, or PCB (Poly-Chlorinated Biphenyls).

If you require documentation of data destruction, please see the following options:

Standard Recycling Certificate: No charge

  • A Standard Recycling Certificate will include a data destruction statement, responsible recycling clause, client information, and total weight of material submitted.

Recycling Count Sheet: $2 per line

  • A Recycling Count Sheet will be provided by request when a client needs a tally of the quantity of each kind of item that was submitted for recycling, such as PC, laptop, monitor, mouse, network switch, circuit board, hard drive, etc.

  • Due to their tendency to entangle themselves, all cables and wires in a load will be stated on a single line as a weight, rather than a quantity. Each count line will be billed at $2 regardless of the actual number of each type of item, so whether there are 2 or 200 PCs, that line on the count sheet would be billed at $2.

Itemized Certificate of Recycling: $5 per hard drive

  • Itemized certificates may be requested for hard drives only.

  • A chain of custody must be established, for the protection of the client and PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC.

  • In order to accomplish this, hard drives must be pulled from laptops, servers, PCs, etc. The make, model, and serial number of each hard drive must be documented by the client and submitted to PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC at least 48 hours prior to the appointment.  

  • Hard drives submitted for proof of destruction should be turned over in a sealed box marked with “Data Destruction” and the name of the client.

  • PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC will verify whether all hard drives are present and all information matches.

  • If the information on the paperwork submitted does not match the hard drives that were received, PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC will contact the client to alert them to any discrepancies.

Video Proof of Data Destruction: $20 per hard drive

  • Video Proof of Data Destruction will be provided by request. An Itemized Certificate of Recycling will also be included.

  • A chain of custody must be established, for the protection of the client and PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC. 

  • In order to accomplish this, hard drives must be pulled from laptops, servers, PCs, etc. The make, model, and serial number of each hard drive must be documented by the client and submitted to PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC at least 48 hours prior to the appointment.

  • Hard drives submitted for proof of destruction should be turned over in a sealed box marked with “Data Destruction” and the name of the client. 

  • PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC will verify whether all hard drives are present and all information matches.

  • If the information on the paperwork submitted does not match the hard drives that were received, PGW VET Computer Technologies, LLC will contact the client to determine what further action needs to be taken, if any.