What Is a Tri Wing Screwdriver?

Tri-wing Screwdriver

• A Tri-wing screwdriver is a screwdriver with three slots on the tip rather than the more common flat-head or Phillips screwdriver. Tri-wing screwdrivers are designed to remove and install tri-wing screws.
  
  

Uses

• Tri-wing screws are also referred to as tamper proof screws, since the design of them makes them very difficult or impossible to remove without the proper tool. Tri-wing screws are most commonly used on electronic products and accessories. For example, Nintendo uses tri-wing screws on many of its products, including the Wii, DS and GameCube. These screws are also used on many cell phones, cameras and laptops. Tri-wing screws are also used on things such as public lights to reduce the chances of someone tampering with them.
  
  

Using a Tri-wing

• A tri-wing screwdriver is used like a normal screwdriver. The end of the screwdriver is inserted into the head of the screw. The screwdriver is then turned counter clockwise while simultaneously pressing against the screw to loosen it. To install and tighten the screw, the end of the screwdriver is pressed against the screw while turning it clockwise.
  
  

Finding Tri-wing Screwdrivers

• Though tri-wing screws are used to discourage tampering and easy removal, tri-wing screwdrivers are available online from companies that specialize in electronics tools. One of the reasons that manufacturers use tri-wing screws is to discourage people from trying to fix electronics themselves and possibly causing damage. If possible, only an expert should disassemble and work on sensitive electronics.