usb harddisk woes

[VJ]

Hello,

A friend has encountered issues with a USB harddisk (Western Digital).

The drive is not always seen by the system, and when it is seen, the file system seems to have gone. Is there a way to get data of of it?
(I'm thinking about running either Ontrack or Partition Magic at a time when it is seen by the OS)

Any other softwares you could recommend?
Could it help to open the case and connect the disk directly (if possible)?

Thanks!

Jörg

[Marshmallowman]

could you remove the drive and hook it up directly, as it might be dodgy usb thingy

[VJ]

Yes, that was the ultimate plan... But I try to exhaust all other optiosn prior to opening it...


Jörg

[Gurm]

No no, open it. The WD USB interfaces are hella picky/flaky.

[UtwigMU]

Hook it directly, if that doesn't work, I got a quote for recovery on 500GB MyBook for I think 700 Euros from Ontrack Germany.

[Dr Mordrid]

Had some troubles with the WD's, but the Seagate FreeAgent USB's work great here.

[gt40]

the only problem I had with mine was the USB cable that was supplied with the unit. I replaced the cable and all was good.

[VJ]

Have tried different cables, but to no avail... I'll tell them to open it up, and hook it up directly.

Thanks!


Jörg

[gt40]

Is this one of those USB powered ones?
If so, have you tried a booster cable (2 usb port "y") to give it more power?
Some have issues with a single usb port not suppling enough power.

[VJ]

No, it is one with a power supply (and no option of running it usb only)


Jörg