Like any other type of media storage, a hard drive is not error-free, and data loss is common for various reasons. When discussing the issues of hard drives, it is important to note that data loss often occurs alongside physical damage to the drive.
If the media hardware is fully functional, the loss of information, in most cases, occurs due to errors in the partition table or file system structures. For example, this can happen due to incorrect computer shutdown, software, or hardware failures. Users may need to recover data from hard drives due to errors they make or viruses that infect their systems.
In the case of motherboard malfunction, the data physically remains on the disk, but information about its location is lost. Morever, incorrect entries in structures in file systems can lead to the loss of individual files and directories.
Background of Failed HGST Hard Drive
Our data recovery team received an HGST hard disk drive for evaluation this week. The hard drive was used on a desktop PC when it failed. The customer said the hard drive slowed down drastically, and the operating system suddenly showed a partition error.
He ignored it and proceeded to work, thinking of fixing it afterward. However, the hard drive failed, and the client lost access to his crucial documents.
Instead of DIY recovery, the customer decided to entrust the device to the professionals. Our technician received the media storage and started the data recovery for the HGST hard drive right away.
First, our engineer performed visual control of the integrity of the electronic components. Semiconductor devices during malfunction are very different from serviceable ones. They can change the board’s color.
The chips on the voltage formers were very clearly visible under the microscope. The expert noticed three malfunctions. Two resistors and one diode were damaged. The spindle was motor also jammed.
For an experienced specialist, the appearance of damaged elements is enough to draw preliminary conclusions and malfunctions. We informed the customer about the results of the evaluation. After receiving his approval, our data recovery experts started to restore vital files.
Internal HDD Data Recovery Solution
The motherboard converts operations and transfers information from read/write heads to the drive interface. It handles several data stream transformation operations. Thus its failure leads to severe data loss. PITS Global Data Recovery Services can help recover data lost due to a faulty or damaged motherboard. We employ proprietary techniques and processes to ensure maximum success in recovering your lost data.
Short Circuit
Individual parts of the board come into contact with conductive surfaces.
Moisture
Sensitive electronics require ideal operating conditions.
Mechanical Damage
Improper cable connection can cause damage.
Voltage Instability
With a sharp voltage increase, the controller's microcircuits burn out.
The components failed due to a defective connector in the customer’s HGST drive. First, our technician unsoldered the damaged elements using soldering tweezers. After replacing them, he started working on the jammed spindle.
Thanks to years of experience, our data recovery specialist could successfully start the drive motor. As the HDD with the opened hermetic block is not further functional, he began to extract and analyze all the data. The next step was to restore the partition error that had occurred before.
HGST Hard Drive Partition Recovery
The Invalid Partition error happened due to corruption in the table. The disk had more than two partitions marked as active. The Master boot record contained the damaged partition table, which controlled most logic and stored file systems.
It could occur due to either a corrupt MBR, which corrupts the file system, or an Incorrect system boot sequence that leads to unsuccessful booting.
The engineer used our advanced tools to recover the hard drive partition. After fixing the partition error, he transferred all the data to a new hard drive. The client approved the results via a remote verification session. We shipped the data back to him and successfully closed the case.
Contact us via our service line for professional help recovering lost data. PITS Global Data Recovery Services’ experts will restore all your data and fix all logical issues. Thanks to engineers working in state-of-art laboratories, we maintain the highest quality in the industry, with a 99% success rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do HGST drives last?
HGST (Hitachi Global Storage Technologies) hard drives are known for their reliability and durability. A hard drive’s lifespan typically lasts approximately 6 years, but this can vary based on usage, operating conditions, and maintenance quality. Adequate handling and consistent backups can help prolong the hard drive’s life.
What is an HGST hard drive?
Western Digital’s subsidiary, HGST, is well known for producing high-quality hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs) with exceptional performance, longevity, and storage capacities. These drives are commonly for enterprise settings where reliability is paramount.
How important is the recovery partition?
The partition dedicated to recovery is crucial for fixing software problems, system crashes, and corruption. It has all the necessary files to restore the operating system to its original condition, making the recovery process easier and faster.
What causes drive failure?
There are many potential causes of drive failure, such as physical harm like impact or overheating, defects during manufacturing, natural wear and tear as the drive ages, power surges, and software problems like malware or corrupted files. Regular maintenance, avoiding physical shocks, and maintaining good ventilation can help prolong the life of your hard drive.
