How to Access a Damaged Hard Drive

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The biggest loss when a hard drive is damaged is usually not the breakdown of the hardware but the inability to access saved data or complete data deletion. However, all hope is not lost because there are many tricks and tips that you can apply to try to access a damaged hard drive.

Steps

Software Malfunctions

1. 1
   Look for clues that indicate that you have corrupted files. For example, your computer may detect your broken hard drive but not let you access the data that was saved on it. At times, you may even see filenames and icons appear but the files will not open. All of these hints suggest that you have a software malfunction.

   
   
2. 2
   Run any rescue and recovery software that came with your hard drive. Many hard drives come with built-in software that allows you to store files more efficiently. However, a virus or other glitch in the hard drive's software can make saved data inaccessible even though your hard drive has not suffered from any physical damage. The rescue and recovery program will try to fix the built-in software.
3. 3
   Use other programs to try to rescue files if the original rescue and recovery program that came with your hard drive does not work. You can try using programs such as Recover My Files.
4. 4
   Access the Microsoft Rescue and Recovery utility if you are using a computer with the Windows operating system. You can find the Rescue and Recovery utility wizard by going to "Start" and then clicking on "Search" to search for the utility.

Hardware Problems.

1. 1
   Listen carefully for any noises coming from your hard drive especially when you try to access it. If you hear a repetitive clunking when you try to access saved data it means that the head is having difficulty in reading stored information. In terms of physical damage, it means that either the arm or disk inside your hard drive is broken. At this point you may want to consider hiring a data recovery professional because the intricacies of opening a hard drive are very complex.
2. 2
   Do a detection test by reinstalling your hard drive and then restarting your computer to see if the hard drive is detected. If your hard drive is not even being detected there may be a problem with the board or access ports. If the problem is with an external hard drive, you can try to replace the access ports by shifting the hard drive into a new enclosure. If the problem is with your hard drive board you will have to replace the board. Use the methods suggested for your specific hard drive model to locate and replace the board. Make sure the new board is compatible with your hard drive.
3. 3
   Freeze your hard drive in a zip-lock bag if all other methods have failed. This may enable you to access a damaged hard drive for a very short amount of time, so connect the hard drive to your computer as quickly as you can after it has been frozen to transfer files to a safe location. Be aware that freezing a hard drive can cause further data deletion.

   
   

Tips

• As a possible quick fix, simply disconnect your hard drive and connect it to another computer. You may discover that you have a problem in your computer or its operating system instead of a broken hard drive.

Warnings

• Never open a hard drive unless it is in a controlled dust-free environment. Exposure to dust can cause severe permanent damage.

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