" The DST log contains previous error(s)" is the exact definition of that code.

 

It still means replace the hard drive.

wustlajb,

 

First, let me say that I do not know what that code means specifically.  With enough time, and a friendly engineer I could probably find out.  From the standpoint of the average technician at Dell, the specifics of the code do not matter, because any failure means, replace the hard drive.  So, while I may wish to give you a more complete answer, I cannot, at least not right away.

 

Now, I consider your non-US power question a more serious one, and there I can give you an answer.  Your portable runs on DC power.  The AC adapter converts whatever you plug it into (within reason) into what the portable system needs.  If you will look at the adapter brick, you should see something like this:

 

Input: AC 100-240V~1.5A
          50-60Hz
Output: DC 19.5V (19,5V)  4.62A (4,62A)

 

This is directly off a Dell AC adapter, and yours may vary.  As long as the power you plug into fits within the range specified for Input, then you should be okay.  The Output is what is correct for your system.  This conversion from AC power to DC power means that it is unlikely that the AC power you connect to will cause a problem.  If the Input is greater than the what the adapter can handle, most likely it will burn out the adapter.

 

A much more likely reason for the identical failures is that the two hard drives are made by the same manufacturer at about the same time, and failed in a similar way.

 

I know that it is frustrating, but I do not know of any specific way to avoid such failures.  That is the value of your warranty.  The technician may not know why it failed, but he will arrange for a replacement if it does fail.