Ethan Clarke
If you've purchased a DVD that's locked in a plastic box, you're not alone in your frustration. Many retailers use security measures to prevent theft, but this can be annoying for customers who have legitimately purchased the product. There are a few ways to unlock a DVD case without damaging the disc inside. One method is to use a magnet to unlock the internal magnets, sliding the lock from locked to unlocked. Another method is to use a screwdriver to press down on the locking mechanisms, freeing the slide bar. Alternatively, you can try pushing down on the DVD case against a flat surface to flex it open, then forcing the lock out.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lock type | Red lock, single red rectangle, red tag, red icon |
| Tools | Screwdrivers, pliers, magnets, pins, thumb tacks, Lego pieces, knife |
| Technique | Pressing, sliding, poking, pulling, prying, cutting |
| Tips | Push down on the side with the magnetic lock, use stronger magnets if necessary, plug all 4 holes simultaneously |
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What You'll Learn
Using screwdrivers to unlock the mechanism
If you need to unlock a DVD case with a screwdriver, you will need a small flat-head screwdriver. The type used to fix jewellery and eyeglasses is perfect. You may need to purchase an identical lock and compare it to your screwdriver to ensure it fits.
The DVD case will have two small catches. You need to press pins or thumbtacks through the case and then slide the lock using a third pin. The first pin goes through the corner of the front cover 3mm from the right edge and 15mm from the base. The second pin goes through the back cover 3mm from the left edge and 25mm from the top edge.
Once the pins are in place, use the screwdriver to push on the locking mechanisms. Push down on the left side and up on the right, so the slide bar can move from the locked to the unlocked position.
If you are struggling to get the screwdriver to work, you could try using a hammer or a pair of wrenches instead.
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Using magnets to unlock the mechanism
To unlock a DVD case using magnets, you will need two small but strong magnets, such as neodymium magnets. Firstly, locate the internal magnet, which is usually on the left of the locking bar. Place one of your magnets here, sliding it around slightly until you feel it snap into place. Then, place the other magnet on the outside of the case, on the right of the opening along the edge of the case. With your index finger, slowly move both magnets at the same time, dragging the internal magnets and moving the lock from "locked" to "unlocked". You may need to move the magnets about one inch to the right, and if stronger magnets are required, try again with a stronger pair.
You should see a red security icon in the middle of the locking bar. Continue sliding the magnets until the icon is firmly in the green "unlocked" position, and you hear a click. At this point, you can remove the magnets and open the DVD case by gripping the locking bar from the front and back.
If you are unable to unlock the case with magnets, you may need to try other methods. One way is to use a screwdriver to press against the plastic and slide the red lock to the right. Alternatively, you can try pushing down on the side of the case with the magnetic lock against a hard surface to force it open.
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Pressing down on the DVD case to unlock it
If you want to unlock a DVD case by pressing down on it, you can try using magnets or screwdrivers, depending on the type of case. Some DVD cases have a locking mechanism that can be released by pressing down on the lock tabs simultaneously. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, identify the lock tabs on the DVD case, usually located near the locking bar. There are small holes on the front and back cases, about 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) down from the locking bar, which provide access to the lock tabs.
Next, take two screwdrivers and insert them into these holes, pressing down on the lock tabs at the same time. You may need assistance from another person to press both tabs down simultaneously.
Once the lock tabs are pressed down, take a third screwdriver and poke the red lock icon in the middle of the locking bar. With the screwdriver still pressed against the plastic, slide the red lock to the right until it turns green, indicating that the case is unlocked.
You should hear a click, and at this point, you can remove all screwdrivers and open the DVD case by gripping the middle with each hand and separating the sides.
Alternatively, if you do not have screwdrivers, you can try using magnets. Place one magnet in the upper right front corner of the DVD case, sliding it around until you feel it stick to the internal magnet. Then, place a second magnet in the lower left corner on the back of the case. You may need to move it around slightly to find the right spot.
With both magnets in place, slide them simultaneously to the right, which will move the lock symbol on the bar. Continue sliding until the symbol turns green, indicating that the case is unlocked.
It is important to note that some DVD cases may have different locking mechanisms, and the above methods may not work for all cases. Always exercise caution when attempting to unlock a DVD case to avoid damaging the case or the disc inside.
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Removing the locking tab
Identifying the Locking Mechanism: The first step is to identify the type of locking tab or mechanism your plastic box has. Common types include sliding locks, magnetic locks, or those with locking tabs that need to be broken or removed. Understanding the mechanism will help you choose the appropriate method for opening it.
Using the Right Tools: Depending on the locking mechanism, you may need specific tools to remove the locking tab effectively. Small flat-head screwdrivers, pins, thumbtacks, pliers, or even a sharp knife can be useful for different types of locks. Choose your tools carefully and ensure they are appropriate for the task.
Applying Force or Pressure: In some cases, applying pressure or force in the right areas can disengage the locking tab. For example, you might press down on the sides of the box or use screwdrivers to push on the locking mechanisms in specific directions. This can release the lock without causing damage to the box.
Breaking the Tab: If the locking tab is designed to be broken or removed, you may need to use tools like pliers to snap it off. This approach is often necessary for plastic tabs that bulge out and prevent access. Be cautious, as this method may damage the box or its contents if not performed carefully.
Sliding or Manipulating the Lock: Some locking mechanisms have sliding bars or magnetic locks that can be manipulated without causing damage. For example, you might slide the bar from the "locked" to the "unlocked" position using pins or small tools. Alternatively, for magnetic locks, you can try flexing the box against a hard surface to create enough space to open it.
Repairing Damaged Tabs: If your goal is to repair a broken locking tab on a plastic box, you can use epoxy glue to reattach the tab or create a new one. Cut a flat panel from a plastic milk jug, then cut out the pieces that will be glued to the locking tabs and the box. Rough up the surface with a utility knife, clean the parts with alcohol, and then use epoxy glue to secure the new tab in place.
Remember, when removing locking tabs, it's important to be cautious and patient. Choose the appropriate method for your specific locking mechanism, and always handle sharp tools with care to avoid injury or further damage to the box.
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Using pliers to break the locking mechanism
If you want to use pliers to break the locking mechanism of a DVD case, there are a few different types of pliers and techniques you can use. Firstly, it's important to remember that DVD cases are usually locked on only one side, so you can try to pry it open by pushing down on the locked side against a hard surface. If you want to use pliers for this, you can try to grip one of the corners of the case with the pliers and force it open.
There are several types of locking pliers available, each with a different locking mechanism. Some rely on a screw to tighten the grip, while others use a spring to automatically lock the pliers in place. You can also find pliers with curved or straight jaws, with the latter designed to close over flat surfaces. If you're using curved-jaw pliers, make sure the jaws are securely wrapped around the object. For flat-jaw pliers, find an area where you can get a good grip without slipping.
To use locking pliers, first determine which part of the DVD case you want to grip. If you're using the pliers as a clamp, place them directly over the part you want to keep intact. If you need space to work around the case, consider using C-shaped locking pliers. Once the pliers are secure, squeeze the handles together and tighten the screw at the bottom of the handle. You can adjust the width of the pliers by turning the screw clockwise or counterclockwise.
If you're using a pair of straight-jaw pliers, you can try to grip the locking mechanism directly and force it to move from the locked to the unlocked position. Alternatively, you can try to pry the case open by gripping one side of the case and applying force until it pops open.
Remember to be careful when using pliers, as applying too much force can damage the DVD case or the disc itself.
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Frequently asked questions
Place a powerful magnet under the red rectangle and another magnet on the face of the red rectangle. Pull on the second magnet to remove the red plastic cube.
Take two small flat-head screwdrivers and push on the locking mechanisms. Push down on the left side and up on the right side. This will unlock the case.
Pull the top of the tag away from the case. This should allow you to pull out the tab and open the case. Then, pull the red plastic up between the DVD release clip.
Take a screwdriver and poke the red lock icon in the middle of the locking bar. Slide the red lock to the right until it becomes the green unlocked icon. Then, open the DVD case.
Plug the four holes simultaneously. This will press the clips inside and unlock the case. You can use long thin Lego pieces or something similar.
