Build a magnetic parts tray out of an old, dead hard drive!
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Magnetic parts trays are AWESOME, and everyone who builds PCs should have one... But rather than buying one, you may be able to build one yourself! TunnelBear message: TunnelBear is the easy-to-use VPN app for mobile and desktop. Visit tunnelbear.com to try it free and save 10% when you sign up for unlimited TunnelBear data. Cooler Master link: linustechtips.com Pricing & discussion: linustechtips.com Support us: linustechtips.com Join our community forum: bit.ly twitter.com @LinusTech Intro Screen Music Credit: Title: Laszlo - Supernova Video Link: youtube.com iTunes Download Link: itunes.apple.com Artist Link: soundcloud.com Outro Screen Music Credit: Approaching Nirvana - Sugar High youtube.com Sound effects provided by freesfx.co.uk
The video demonstrates a practical upcycling project, turning a dead hard drive into a set of magnetic parts trays. It starts by highlighting the utility of magnetic trays for PC builders, then explains that many drives contain strong magnets that can be repurposed. The presenter walks through the disassembly process, noting the need for basic tools such as a torque screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver or pry bar, and a small kit to accommodate different screw sizes. He explains the step-by-step removal of the outer case and the internal assemblies, emphasizing that the magnets are the key resource and should be preserved. Various tray designs are shown, including a stealth version where the magnets are attached to a drive lid, a practical box variant with magnets on the outside, and a cardboard grid method for sorting, all designed to keep screws and components organized. The video also suggests additional monetization avenues, such as selling scrap drive components, and invites viewers to share their own creations on social media. Overall, the project blends hands-on hardware work with creative repurposing and community engagement. The host maintains a light, humorous tone, acknowledges being a bit quirky, and reinforces the idea that recycling old computer parts can be both useful and satisfying. Finally, it briefly promotes TunnelBear and related sponsor links, framing the video as a mix of maker content and sponsor placements.
Topics · diy · technology · hardware
Questions answered
- How do you extract magnets from a dead hard drive for a magnetic parts tray?
- Remove the outer case with appropriate tools, locate the internal components, and carefully pry away the magnetic plate and bottom magnet while avoiding damage to surrounding parts, keeping the magnets to reuse in trays.
- What are the essential tools to start building a magnetic parts tray from a hard drive?
- A small torque screwdriver or a driver kit, a flathead screwdriver or pry bar, and basic hand tools to remove screws and pry open the case, plus a way to secure magnets to a tray or box.
- What are some creative variants of magnetic parts trays shown in the video?
- A stealth version with magnets on the lid to resemble an actual hard drive, a practical box with magnets on the outside, and a cardboard grid with magnets placed in a pattern for sorting parts.