Can I still extract files and back up the data?

Question

I've been running a Dell Studio 14z laptop since 2009 now, and this is the THIRD time a hard drive has just suddenly failed on me without any warning signs. I think it's time I just move on to a new computer, because this one is obviously crap to die on an average of about once per year, despite my deep knowledge of computers and software (I had to freaking BUILD MY OWN PARTITION on this last hard drive, because the salesman lied and said it came with one already built, and the OS already installed). Anyway, on this final death, still with no prior warning, I ran a diagnostics and got the Error Code 2000-0142; Status: 79; No Diagnostic Utility Partition identified.

Whatever. I know this means that my hard drive is as good as history, but what I DON'T know is if I can still extract files from my computer and back them up. I have quite a few recently made files that were of significant value to me, and I can't finish my work without them. Considering the lack of HD death signs, there was no reason for me to panic and make backups only a few weeks after writing these files, but here I am, file-less... It's bad enough that I can't access certain administrative functions on certain sites without going through checks as it is (and having to use a computer that isn't even mine), but I have deadlines to keep, and this heap of trash has officially set me back for the third time now. I need to be able to make a decision on whether or not to pay for files backup from the hard drive's memory extremely soon, or to just call off the project entirely (because there's no way I can rush a finish on a re-write BEFORE the 24th arrives).

So I ask again, is it possible that my files can still be salvaged? Or does this particular error mean that they're lost forever? If I CAN rescue these files, I'll at least be able to finish the project on a temporary computer, until I get a new one or have to publish (whichever comes first) from where I am.

kyuubitao · Accepted Answer

Update: So I took it to my uncle, who builds computers and stuff, and knows more about computers than the local shop, and he determined that my hard drive's engine is dying, and can't spin fast enough to get a start-up (although it's TRYING). I left the HD with him so he can keep trying to get one last boot from it and back up all my stuff (if it works at all). He also suggested I get a SSD as replacement, but y'know, I think I'm just going to sell the old comp and get a new one anyway. It's just becoming more and more outdated anyway, and I can't have that.

I've only managed to find one new laptop with a SSD that comes with my minimum spec requirements and stays within my price range, but it's sold out from every source that prices it within my budget. I'll likely end up buying one with similar specs and price, but a HDD. One thing to note is that it's not a Dell, but a HP computer.

So I guess I have my answer now, since my uncle knows what's going on. Thanks for trying anyway.

Philip_Yip · Answer

You can attempt to boot from a Linux live CD and salvage what files you can. Results will vary depending on how badly damaged the drives are:

See the end of section 6 (page 405) http://en.community.dell.com/support-forums/software-os/f/3524/t/19480753.aspx

3 hard drives in 3 years is quite bad. Where are you purchasing your replacement drives?

Does your unit tend to overheat? If so heat degrades components faster such as the hard drive. A laptop cooling pad would help.

Do you carry it about in a bag quite alot? If so I would suggest orientating it in the bag in such a manner that the hard drive isn't at the bottom of the bag. Everytime you put the bag down the bottom of the laptop (or side) depending on your laptop hits the ground and there is a small shock on the hard drive. Some friends and I have found this to cause the Hard drive to fail more often.

Where are you getting your replacement hard drives? I suggest getting a SSD from Crucial. The SSD has no mechanical parts and generates less heat and the performance of your system will be greatly increased. Also it seems you should have a 3 year warranty for one of these drives. - With respect to internal Solid State Drive products, Micron Consumer Products Group warrants to the original end customer of its products specified below that its products are free from defects in material and workmanship affecting form, fit, and function. The warranty period for all internal Solid State Drive products is three (3) years from the original date of shipment, except for the Crucial 225 Series Solid State Drive products which shall have a warranty period of five (5) years from the original shipment date. http://www.crucial.com/company/termsofsale.aspx

ejn63 · Answer

With the new computer, be sure to buy a backup drive. There'll be no difference between the hard drive in it and the ones in your Dell - there are just three remaining manufacturers of notebook drives (Toshiba, WD and Seagate) - and they're all the same, in all brands of notebooks.

As for SSDs, backup is even more critical - they're not only more likely to fail without warning, they're more likely to fail than spinning hard drives, period.

ejn63 · Answer

If these are HP models, do some research on their service/reliability before buying.

kyuubitao · Answer

I'm leaning toward the HDD computer now, having done some extra research into the specs, and the fact it's only $40 more than the other one, despite being better.

B2A78UTR#ABA -versus- B2B01UT#ABA

I've been doing some asking around, and most people agree that the first one is the best choice for me, given the small price difference.

And btw, I no longer trust Seagate. All my dead HDs were Seagate.

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Can I still extract files and back up the data?

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