• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Need help...Is my HD dead?

G

GR8Madmax

Senior member
I haven't had a hard drive go bad on me before and I just want to make sure the drive is dead. It's a 30GB WD (model 300AA) drive which is making loud clicking noices when the computer tries to boot up/tries to detect it. Also, the drive is not being detected. Before this happened, I used to get blue screens when I'm in Windows with warnings like - C: not accessible, possible data loss. I'd appreciate it if someone can confirm that the drive is dead (if you've had similar experience). Thanks.

Tony
 
Quiet please, I am trying to channel the hard drive Gods.

Yes...
Hmmm, uh huh...
Yes...
OK, thanks.

The Gods say your hard drive just went south.

If you don't believe them download and use the WD hard drive diagnostic DataLifeguard here.
 
Woody: Thanks for the response. Correct me if I'm wrong but I believe the WD tools can only be used if the drive can actually be detected. So the drive is dead huh? I was hoping it would be my power supply or something. 🙂
 
I'd try a different powersupply connector (on a different lead), a different IDE cable and connecting it to the other IDE port on your motherboard. If your BIOS still can't detect it, it's toast. Regardless, clicking usually means it's dead.
 
bozo1: Thanks for the reply also. I did try a different connector but no luck. I didn't think it was the IDE cable due to the loud clicking but will try it. Thanks again...this sucks. 🙁
 
Yes, Grasshopper, you have just completed another step up the staircase of enlightenment. The meaning of this lesson is always have a backup, or, in the imortal words of the great sage, "Sh*t Happens".

Another lesson is that Western Digital has an excellent RMA policy, and if you call them with your credit card in hand you can get a replacement by Monday or Tuesday. If the drive is truly bad, which we all know is true, they will not charge your card for the replacement drive.

Tips for resurecting your data can be found at a current article at Langa.com - Hard drive repair options, though opening up your hdd will obviously negate the RMA and your free replacement.
 
Woody: I did back up all the important stuff (atleast I think I did). But what sucks is that the drive cannot be RMAd since it's an OEM drive and not a retail one. I checked the WD website to see if I can RMA it and it said no. Do you still think I have a chance they'll RMA it or give me another drive at a discount? 🙂

Tony
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top