Hard Disk Trouble Shooting
Disclaimer: The first thing to point out is that if your hard disk is making any unusual noises or you are not completely sure of what you need to do or what this guide is describing, then please seek professional help - especially if the data you are trying to recover has any value.
The steps involved will require removing the case of your computer and removal of the hard disk which will invalidate any warranties. Anti-Static procedures should be taken to protect the drive from anti static electricity that could render the drive useless.
Hard disk trouble shooting Guide:
- Hard Disk Not Spinning
If your hard disk is not spinning the first thing to do is to check the power cable. If there is a spare power connector inside the computer, try removing the old connector and replacing it with the new one. Reassemble and repower the computer to see if that has fixed the problem. If it hasn't then the problem is most likely the electronics board or hard disk motor failure which will need professional repair- Hard Disk Spinning but Not Recognised
A common problem is where the IDE or SATA cable has become dislodged from either the motherboard or the drive itself. Try reseating the cable at both ends to see if that fixes the problem. If not, try replacing the cable. If both methods fail then there is a more serious problem with the drive and will need professional data recovery.
- Hard Disk Recognised but Not Loading Operating system
If your computer is starting to boot but hangs or goes into a boot-loop then try removing the drive from the computer and put it into another - you could use an external USB hard disk caddy to do this - to see if you can access the data then copy the data off as quickly as possible - start with the critical data, then to less important data. If the drive hangs that computer, then there is a physical problem with the drive the most likely problem is bad media and will need careful imaging by a professional. If it mounts ok but the data is not showing, then data recovery software may help, but be aware that the drive may be suffering from a physical problem that may not manifest until there are attempts to read the data. If at any time the drive hangs, or makes any peculiar noises, seek professional help.
- Hard Disk Spinning but Not Recognised