Re: [Thinkpad] virus on memory chips??

Thanks Mike, this is just the info i was looking for..

Ron

--- Michael Geary <Mike@Geary.com> wrote:

> > From: Ron DeBaecke
> >
> > Can a virus infect a memory chip??
>
> No. Memory is "volatile": it is completely erased when you remove the
> power.
>
> > I seem to be the dumping point for friends and familys
> > computers that need repair.. I end up with some of them that
> > they dont want to spend the money fixing, etc.. I acuired one
> > now that has known virus(s) on it.. What parts can i safely
> > use from this machine?? I would like ot use the mmeory chips,
> > and maybe the video card>> any issues??
> >
> > I assume only the HD and motherboard would be something to
> avoid..??
> > drives, etc should be okay too..??
>
> You can use *every* part of the old computer without fear.
>
> Viruses are not magic. They are simply programs, like any other
> programs,
> stored on the hard drive. If you erase the hard drive you erase all
> viruses
> on it. Specifically, if you erase the Master Boot Record (MBR) then
> the
> drive is as clean as a brand new drive.
>
> Hitachi's Drive Fitness Test has a "wipe" utility that will erase the
> MBR
> for you:
>
> http://www.hitachigst.com/hdd/support/download.htm
>
> I seem to recall that this will work on non-Hitachi drives, but if it
> doesn't, there are any number of other programs that can do this.
>
> Or, more simply, when you install a new OS on the drive, it should
> provide
> an option to completely repartition the drive. That's all you need to
> do.
>
> -Mike
>
>

Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must undergo the fatigues of supporting it. - Thomas Paine
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Received on Sat Feb 18 20:34:12 2006