Nitto Holcam Launches New Technical Proposal for Proper Disposal and Enhanced Data Security of GIGA School Terminals

Nitto Holcam Co., Ltd., headquartered in Mobara City, Chiba, has begun offering a technical proposal to solve challenges associated with the large-scale replacement of terminals introduced during the first phase of the GIGA School Program. This proposal is aimed at the "FY2026 Survey and Awareness Business for Proper Disposal of GIGA School Terminals" promoted by the Ministry of the Environment, and the increasing number of "Terminal Collection, Reuse, and Recycling Processing" bids across Japan.

Background and Challenges With millions of GIGA School terminals (such as iPads and Chromebooks) reaching their replacement age, boards of education and municipalities nationwide are actively seeking bids for their disposal, reuse, and recycling. In comprehensive evaluation bidding systems, technical capabilities, environmental considerations, and social responsibility are key evaluation factors beyond just price. Key challenges for bidders include:

- Limitations of Manual Disassembly: Separating LCD panels fixed with strong adhesives is inefficient and carries a high risk of component damage. - Strict Data Security: Proof of "complete physical destruction" and "proper data erasure" is essential to prevent leaks of confidential information contained in educational devices. - Contribution to SDGs and Disability Employment: Bidders are required to demonstrate concrete achievements and proposals for collaboration with welfare services and environmental consideration, which are credited in evaluations.

To address these issues, the company proposes a solution centered on its proprietary "Tablet Disassembly Device (TBN-1014HK-H3)."

Warning on the "Zombie Tablet" Phenomenon The company warns of a "revival phenomenon" where discarded devices suddenly power on during disassembly. Terminals left unused for long periods can develop poor internal connections, which may be accidentally restored by the physical stimulation of the disassembly process, causing them to turn on. This phenomenon has been observed during the company's own operations and has also been reported in the United States. This poses a risk of leaking unerased personal data, such as student names and learning histories. The company urges strict measures, including complete data erasure before disposal, powering off devices before disassembly, and performing multiple verification checks.

Features of the Proposed Solution

1. Safe and Rapid Automated Disassembly with Heating and Vacuum Suction The device (TBN-1014HK-H3), equipped with a unique heater and vacuum suction mechanism, safely and efficiently separates LCD panels of devices like iPads without damage. This improves the recovery rate of reusable parts and reduces environmental impact.

2. Confidentiality through eMMC Physical Destruction and Data Erasure By combining a physical destruction solution for storage (eMMC) compliant with Data Erase Certification Council (ADEC) standards, the risk of information leakage is completely eliminated. The issuance of a Certificate of Physical Destruction ensures legal proof of erasure and full traceability.

3. Countermeasures for the "Zombie Tablet" Phenomenon The combination of the device and operational know-how detects and prevents unintentional device startups caused by physical stimuli, proactively preventing data erasure oversights that are a major concern for municipalities.

4. Bid Advantages through Disability Employment Support The device's simple and safe operation makes it ideal for use in facilities supporting the employment of people with disabilities. This allows businesses to specifically propose contributions to SDGs and local welfare, which can lead to additional points in comprehensive evaluation bids.

Support for Bidders Nitto Holcam offers sales and rental of the device, support for building optimal processing lines based on scale, and plans for joint proposals and participation as a technical partner in bids.