If you use a Samsung (possible others brands same howto) SSD and you want to secure erase the SSD for reuse or resale (better destroy it!!!) do:
- Insert your Debian/Ubuntu Setup CD/Stick
- Boot into Live/Setup Mode
- open Gnome Terminal or Console and enter $sudo su – #to be root
- then enter..
$ apt-get update && apt-get install hdparm # get the tool $ sudo fdisk -l # show drives $ sudo hdparm -I /dev/sda #show drive Infos and lock for "frozen" state!!! shoud be not frozen/locked $ sudo hdparm --security-set-pass NULL /dev/sdb # set the "NULL" password to UNLOCK the Controller $ sudo hdparm --security-erase NULL /dev/sda # run secure erase!