Erase X25M 80 GB SSD

[DSchr2]

I am trying to use the Intel SSD Toolbox (latest version) to erase an Intel X25M 80 GB SSD to restore to "factory-fresh" condition. I am told that I cannot. Please understand that I have set up a temporary Win 7 64 bit OS and Intel Toolbox on a traditional HDD. And I have attached only one of the SSD's to an open SATA port (AHCI).

In my ASUS Formula V BIOS, I have of course set all SATA ports to AHCI, not IDE or RAID. The Intel SSD I wish to erase/restore to factory fresh condition is NOT on SATA 1, nor set as a boot device.

Here's what I am told, and I kinda feel like an absolute rookie as a result.

I know this qualifies as a too-stupid-to-live question, but what should be so easy is not at all that.

Thanks,

IncurableGeek (@gmail.com)

[idata]

Thanks parsec:

Been through what you suggested. If took too long, even had to detect drive and refresh.

I'll try that again with tool box V3.0.3 later.

[idata]

Ok, I've recently ran into this issue and took a while until I figure it out. But the method does work, so here is how I did it.

1. The SSD port you want to do a secure erase is HOT SWAP ENABLED (in this case the X-25M). Must be done in BIOS.

2. Boot into OS. Delete the SSD volume/partition.

3. Unhook the SSD cables without shutting off the system. Must be done in Windows.

4. Hook the cables back to a SSD.

5. Do a SECURE ERASE.