
Locked DVD cases can be tricky to open, but there are a few methods to try. One common method involves using magnets to unlock the case. This is done by placing magnets on either side of the locking bar and sliding them to the right until the lock symbol changes from red to green. Alternatively, screwdrivers can be used to access the lock tabs through small holes in the front and back cases. By poking the red lock icon in the middle of the locking bar with a screwdriver, the case can be unlocked. With a bit of force, a screwdriver can also be wedged under the locking bar, although this may damage the case.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Screwdrivers, magnets, pliers, knives, icepicks, nails, x-acto knives, razors |
| Steps | Place the magnets on either side of the locking bar; slide them to the right until the lock symbol changes from red to green; use screwdrivers to press the red lock icon in the middle of the locking bar to the right until it turns green; hold the front and back cases in each hand and open |
| Types of locks | Green/red lock, yellow locking pin, red locking tab, red slider, red rectangle, red tabs |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn

Using screwdrivers
If you want to unlock a DVD case with a screwdriver, you can use the following methods:
Using two screwdrivers to unlock the locking bar
DVD cases with a locking bar can be unlocked using two screwdrivers. First, locate the two small holes on the front and back cases, about 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) down from the locking bar. Insert the two screwdrivers into these holes and push them towards the lock tabs near the locking bar. With the screwdrivers still in place, take a third screwdriver and use it to poke the red lock icon in the middle of the locking bar. Keep the screwdriver pressed against the plastic and slide the red lock to the right until it turns into a green unlocked icon. Once the lock icon has changed, you can remove the screwdrivers and open the DVD case by holding the front and back cases with both hands and pulling them apart.
Using a screwdriver to move the locking bar
If your DVD case has a green/red lock symbol, you can use a small screwdriver to move the locking bar and unlock it. Place a magnet on the left side of the locking bar and slide it around until you feel it snap into place. Then, take the screwdriver and use it to move the locking bar to the right to unlock the case.
Using a screwdriver to remove the clip
If your DVD case has red locking tabs, you can use a wide flathead screwdriver to remove the clip. Insert the screwdriver between the side of the clip and the thin black strip of plastic, then twist it. This method will damage the DVD case, so it is recommended to transfer the disc and cover to a new blank case afterward.
Using a screwdriver to pry open the case
As a last resort, you can use a screwdriver to force the case open by prying it off. This method will likely break the case, so be careful not to damage the disc inside. It is recommended to only use this method if you plan to replace the case afterward.
Reducing Plastic Waste: Tips for Eco-Friendly Food Shopping
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Using magnets
If your DVD case has a green/red lock symbol on the edge, you can use magnets to unlock it. You will need two strong magnets.
First, identify the location of the internal magnets inside the DVD case. If your DVD case is clear, you should be able to see the small magnets. If not, slowly rub a magnet up the right edge of the front side of the case, feeling for the two sticky spots. The spot with the weaker attraction is where you want to place the magnet.
Take the first magnet and place it on the left of the locking bar, on the bottom left corner on the back of the case. You may need to slide the magnet around until you feel it stick. Take the second magnet and place it on the right of the locking bar, on the upper right front corner of the DVD case. Again, you may need to move it around slightly until you feel it catch.
Now, slide both magnets towards the right until the red icon turns green. You should only need to move the magnets about 1 inch (2.5 cm) to the right. As you slide the magnets, the icon should move. Continue sliding until the icon is firmly in the green "unlocked" position.
Once the DVD case is unlocked, hold the locking bar and pull the case apart like a book. Grip the locking bar from both the front and back of the DVD and gently pull the cases apart.
Microplastics: Are They in Our Bodies?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$9.99 $14.99

Prying the case open
Prying open a DVD case without the proper tools will likely result in damage to the case. However, if you are careful, you may be able to use a screwdriver or knife to pry it open. Here are the steps you can follow:
First, locate the lock tabs near the locking bar. There are two small holes on the front and back of the case, about 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) down from the locking bar. These holes provide access to the lock tabs. Insert a screwdriver into these holes and press against the plastic.
Next, take another 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 into the green unlocked icon. Alternatively, instead of using two screwdrivers, you can try using a knife or ice pick, as long as it has a tip small and sharp enough to grab the plastic.
Once the lock icon has been moved, remove the screwdrivers and set them aside. Hold the front case with one hand and the back case with the other, and open the DVD case from the locking bar. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this may break the case or damage the disc inside.
If your DVD case has a different type of lock, such as the red plastic security tabs, you may need to use a different approach. Some people have suggested cutting the plastic around the disc with a knife or razor to remove the disc without prying open the case. Others have suggested using strong magnets to unlock the case by attaching them to the locking bar from the outside. However, this method may require some trial and error, as the placement of the magnets is crucial.
Joining Plastic Canvas: Seamless Ways to Connect Pieces
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Using a knife or icepick
Using a knife or ice pick is a straightforward method to unlock a plastic DVD case. The knife or ice pick should have a small and sharp tip that can grab the plastic. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, identify the locking mechanism on the DVD case. Look for a small red square or rectangle of plastic, often located at the spine or side of the case. This is the security lock that needs to be opened.
Next, carefully insert the knife or ice pick into the thin plastic hinge at the spine of the case. Gently pry and cut the plastic hinge, being careful not to damage the DVD or its case. You may need to apply some force, but be cautious to avoid injury.
Once the plastic hinge is cut, you can attempt to pry open the DVD case. Insert the knife or ice pick into the gap created by cutting the hinge and gently lever the case open. It may require some force to separate the two halves of the case.
In some cases, there may be additional security measures, such as internal locks or tabs that hold the disc in place. If the DVD is still locked inside the case, look for small red tabs that may be securing the disc. You may need to carefully cut or pry these open using the knife or ice pick.
It is important to note that using a knife or ice pick to unlock a DVD case may damage the case or the disc itself. It is recommended to proceed with caution and consider other methods, such as using magnets or screwdrivers, if possible, to minimise the risk of damage.
Mouth Guard Molding: DIY Custom-Fit Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Removing the locking tabs
Lock tabs are small, internal locking mechanisms located along the edge of the DVD case. There are two small holes on the front and back cases about 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) down from the locking bar that allow you to access the lock tabs.
To remove the locking tabs, you can use either two screwdrivers or two magnets. If using screwdrivers, insert both into the holes at the same time and press down on the lock tabs. Then, with another screwdriver, poke the red lock icon in the middle of the locking bar and slide it to the right until it becomes the green unlocked icon.
If using magnets, place one magnet on the left and one on the right of the locking bar. Slide both magnets towards the right until the red icon turns green. You can also use a knife, ice pick, or any sharp object in place of the magnets.
Alternatively, you can use a hacksaw and small pliers to remove the locking tabs, but this may scratch the DVD case. Another option is to cut the plastic and remove the disc, or wrap a rubber band between the pieces and pull it tight.
For locking tabs that are permanently installed, you can look inside an opened case to see where the metal lumps are and use magnets to pull them inward simultaneously, unlocking the case.
Plastic Surgery: Weekend Makeover Secrets Revealed
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Place a magnet on the left and right of the locking bar, then slide both magnets to the right until the red icon turns green.
Use two very strong magnets. The older the magnet, the larger and more powerful it is likely to be.
Stick two screwdrivers into both lock tabs near the locking bar. Take a third screwdriver and poke the red lock icon in the middle of the locking bar. With the screwdriver pressed against the plastic, slide the red lock to the right until it becomes green.
A knife, icepick, pliers, nails, or a razor.
DVD cases with the Green/Red lock symbol on the edge of the case can be unlocked with magnets or screwdrivers.














![Ailun Glass Screen Protector for Galaxy S25 Ultra [6.9 Inch] 3Pack + 3Pack Camera Lens Tempered Glass Fingerprint Unlock 0.25mm Ultra Clear Anti-Scratch Case Friendly [Not For S25/S25 Plus/S25 Edge]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71ZL5l-oCyL._AC_UY218_.jpg)







![LeYi for Galaxy Note 8 Phone Case with [2 Pack] 3D Screen Protector, Military-Grade Magnetic Ring Holder & Kickstand Cell Android Unlocked Case for Samsung Note 8, Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71kWEbNXkrL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![OnePlus 13 Privacy Screen Protector, Case Friendly, Support Fingerprint Unlock, Full Adhesive Hydrogel Film [2 Pack], Anti-Spy Flexible Privacy TPU Film for OnePlus 13 5G](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61YiRutaZuL._AC_UY218_.jpg)

















