prompter: I am trying to dissemble something to hopefully fix it, however it has some strange screws that I do not have with me preventing me from opening it. What are some things I could do to remove the screws and open the casing without damaging it?

assistant: There are a few methods you could attempt to remove the strange screw. Please note, without the proper tool, there is always a risk of damage to the case, screw or tool(s) used for removal. Here are a few methods you could attempt:

1. Attempt to find a suitably fitting screwdriver. For instance, some tri-wing and triangle screws can be opened with a flathead screwdriver, as jamming the flathead against the sides can cause the triangle screw to rotate.
2. Attempt to compensate for the shape of a screw with household items. For example, in the case of a stripped Phillips screw or a Robertson screw, using a rubber band or super glue in conjunction with a Phillips screwdriver can lead to removal with very minimal risk of damage.
3. Drilling out the screw. This method is the most destructive, and while there is risk involved, this could be done with little to no damage to the casing. If done properly, you may be able to separate the head and threads of a screw, leading to the removal of the offending screw without damaging the case.
4. Depending on the situation and desired outcome, it may be best to identify the screw type and acquire a matching screwdriver. With more specific information, I could assist in identifying the type of screw that needs removed.

prompter: The screw is completely stripped at this point, how can I properly drill out the screw?

assistant: It is difficult to determine the best course of action with so little detail. The type, size and positioning of the screws will determine the best course of action. If you're unsure of the type of screw, you can try the following:
- Examine the screw head: Look closely at the head of the screw to see if you can identify any unique shapes or patterns that could indicate the type of screw. You can use a screw identification chart to determine its type.
- If possible, you can try to acquire the appropriate screwdriver.
- Try to use another screwdriver that can allow you to turn the screws, even if it doesn't fit.
- If you have identified the screws to be security torx screws, you can break out the pin in the middle of the screw head, so you can use a regular torx screwdriver.
- Try using pliers or a wrench to grip the head of the screw and turn it. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this can strip the screw or damage the casing.
- Make your own tool: file down another screwdriver to make it fit. Obviously, this will destroy the tool.
- If all else fails, you can try to use a drill to remove the screws.  You will have to be very careful not to damage the casing or any internal components.

prompter: Don't you think magnets can aid the removal?

assistant: A possible solution to your problem is to drill out the screws. If performed carefully using clamps to hold the device and drill press you can minimize damage done to the case.

prompter: I tried but the surface of the case is too slippery and I am not able to drill out the screws quite well. I think I also ruined it a little bit, what should I do now?

assistant: If the surface of the case is too slippery and the drilling has caused some damage, one option could be to try using a specialized grip screwdriver or pliers. Another solution is to use a small chisel and hammer to create a small indentation around the screw head, giving you a better grip with the screwdriver. If these methods do not work, you may want to consider taking the device to a professional repair shop for assistance.

prompter: I was thinking about welding a metal piece onto the screw head that I can grip with pliers. Is this feasible considering the plastic casing? The screw is not in a tight space, but openly accessible (not extending beyond the surface of the casing, though). Or could I somehow cut into the screw head to use a flat screwdriver? I'm in need of a creative solution here!

assistant: You could try to weld a small screwdriver head that fits into a drill, a cheap one will do, then once welded attach to the drill using the auto-chuck and set the drill in reverse.
Unfortunately these procedures if not done correctly can ruin the finishes, please take good care to protect the case with some masking tape.

prompter: i am broke a screwdriver. what should i do now?

assistant: In the event that you have shattered a screwdriver, there are numerous possible outcomes at your disposal. The opening course of action is to replace the screwdriver with a fresh one. This can be achieved either by buying a modern screwdriver or by having a skilful substitute it for you. In case you make a decision to change it yourself, guarantee to pick a screwdriver that is fitting for the task, as making use of the erroneous type of screwdriver can cause extra damage.
The subsequent choice is to mend the screwdriver you already possess. This can be finished by filing down the broken tip until it is even with the shaft of the screwdriver. If the screwdriver is formed from difficult steel, you may require to utilize a grinding wheel to accomplish this. When the tip has been filed down, you can utilize a honing stone to sharpen the tip. This can be done by dragging the honing stone across the tip of the screwdriver at a diagonal direction until it is sharp and equipped for utilization.
At long last, you can endeavor to utilize an alternate instrument for the task. In the event that the screwdriver is not fundamental for a particular job, you may have the capacity to use a mallet and punch or a couple of forceps to finish the task.
Regardless of what choice you make, guarantee to take the suitable safety measures when managing tools. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from any wreckage.