OT: Harddrive Failure . . . what to do? Options

[jd74914]

Ok guys, I figured I would ask here since many of you seem very computer savvy.

Today I was using my PC (its an HP Pavilion a1540n) and the computer suddenly froze. It gave me an error message saying that it could not read the hard disk and restarted. When I restarted windows the drive started making terrible noises and windows wouldn't load. Its still giving the cannot read errors.

I'm pretty sure the hard drive is toasted . . . How do I go about fixing my computer. I don't care so much about the data on the current drive, but I do need the computer to work.

I do not have my recovery disk (I lost it somewhere). How do I install a new hard drive and get the computer started again.

Thanks in advance for any help. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[Sarastro]

I buy very little (read none) software preferring to use linux and other open source applications. The one program I recommend everyone purchase is SpinRite (about 90 bucks).

I have used this program to recover hard drives when all else has failed. SpinRite will recover data regardless of installed operating system, I understand it even works on TiVos.

I am in no way affiliated with GRC (creator of SpinRite), just a satisfied customer. If there is data on your hard drive you do not want to lose, give it a try it's worth the price. If you are able to recover a failing hard drive, continue using it just long enough to get your important files off. No product can guarantee against subsequent catastrophic hard drive failure.


Along with the discussion of lost data, I highly recommend everyone consider using Mozy. This service allows anyone to remotely store up to 2G of data absolutely free. There is a $5 monthly charge for unlimited backup space but the 2G free can save a lot of grief when important files are lost to a destroyed (or stolen) hard drive. It's very easy to use and operates in the background. The downside is that it is only available with Microsoft OSs.