Best way to store hard drives not being used?

[chicokeys]

What is the best way to store laptop hard drives that are used on a frequent rotational basis? We currently use about 30 laptop hard drives on a about a weekly basis (use about 15 for a week, then swap). I was made aware that we store them in a makeshift Styrofoam hard drive holder. I know this is a bad idea (ESD). Any ideas on a better long term solution? Thanks.

 

[Hawkeye22]

Why not just use the anti-static bags they come shipped in? you can also purchase anti-static bags.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Order=BESTMATCH&N=100017680&isNodeId=1&Description=anti+static+bag&x=0&y=0

 

[chicokeys]

The storage solution currently in place is quite convenient. It holds 40 drives, stored in 5 horizontal rows of 8. It sits neatly on our work bench. I was hoping to find something similar that would not pose a static threat.

 

[Hawkeye22]

Shouldn't that system still work even if the drives are in anti-static bags? I've purchased bare drives that come packaged in green foam (not styrofoam peanuts) so I must assume the green foam isn't conductive or it's irrelevent since the drives are in anti static bags before being placed in this packing foam anyhow.

 

[carowden]

well because you already have that why dont you just get some cheap anti static bags and just put each drive in one before you store it in the styrofoam container?

 

[spookyman]

Just put them up in a cabinet. Just stack them.

But agree get some static bags, or use the ones they came in over.

You really don't need anything fancy. If these are sensitive data drives then store them a locked safe.

 

[chicokeys]

That will work, temporarily. I think they may begin to break down due to the frequency of use (in and out, in and out). Trying to look into some possible anti static foam product. Something we could maybe make our own storage solution. Any ideas?