Crap! My boot drive won't power up!

[Queasy]

Going out and getting a replacement HDD won't be a problem but I have data on there that hasn't been backed up that I need.

It's like it isn't getting power at all because I can't even hear/feel it spin. Anyone know a way around this?

 

[cprince]

If you have another hard drive that's the same model and same batch, you can try switching the board. If you are positive that it's not getting power, you can try to resolder the power connector to the Hard drive controller board. Maybe there's a cold solder joint. Good luck!

 

[RebateMonger]

Could be the motor, too.

 

[Queasy]

Well, I definitely am not up to doing any board switching or soldering.

I wonder if I can take it to someone that does data recovery...will probably cost an arm and a leg though.

 

[cprince]

Yes, it'll cost you an arm, a leg, and at least $179. http://www.salvagedata.com/Certified-Re...NatUS&gclid=CJqnmaCVqowCFSgxUAodhGeiIA

 

[marlinman]

I have some aging hdds that sometimes, tho' they do power up, don't do much else. I then find that reorienting the drive physically can help (i.e. power down, rotate the drive so it's in a plane that's perpendicular (say) to the original, and power up). Bit of a long shot given your lack of power tho' I guess...

 

[lakedude]

Reseat the connections on both ends and the middle if there is an adapter.

If that does not work give it a good inspection to look for obvious problems.

You can order a board if the board is bad. It isn't that hard to swap one.

Normally a terrible idea but maybe give it a wack? (especially if it has been sitting idle for a long time) If it has been working recently maybe don't whack it.

 

[VirtualLarry]

Too much Merlot?

 

[lakedude]

Just the right amount.