How to prepare old PC for trash

What kind of operation system does the old PC run under...
I suggest that you use the software that WIPES ALL of DATA... I discovered that just deleting the files, it just delete the first character of filenames. and hides them. I suggest that you use the software that will wipe all of these file and completely deletes whole thing. I preferably use the DoD DES wipe feature which completely rewrites the data area of file that you are deleting 3 times and writes series of FF once... it ensures all remaining data is completely GONE!!! It will take time to delete all of files... it is dependant on the file sizes...

Computers contain a variety of hazardous materials such as lead and mercury. For information on recycling, see http://www.earth911.org/master.asp?s=lib&a=electronics/comp_index.asp. Click on ?Computer Recycling? for list of recycling facilities near you.

Alternatively, you could see if there are any local organizations or schools that are interested in accepting a donation of used computer equipment. My church?s youth group, for example, accepts such donations in my area.

look man if ure worried about sum 1 getting info of ure pc get a sledge hammer take it out the back and go ***** smash it 2 bits coz once u do that no one will b able to track info of u ok so chill relax u may hav a bigg mess 2 clean butt it will kepp ure mind safe if tahst ure problem

She takes old PC's and refurbishes them to give to Kids in her area! Don't just throw it out, Your junk is someone elses treasure