Format error

[Kazkek]

I have a 2.5" external Hard drive that I took out of a notebook. I put it in an enclosure. It works fine and everthing.

I went to go format and clear the drive, but when I went to go do this the format recieved an error and could not format. So I closed it out and tried another way to format it. It failed again. I unplugged it from the computer and then plugged it back in.

Windows made a "Beep" sound. So I know it found something, but the thing is that I cannot see it in explorer. I cannot see it in disk management. I cannot find it in device manager.

But I know windows found something. And now I cant try and format it to use it.

Help please

 

[kestrel1]

I had a similar problem & found that if I had the external enclosure plugged into my PCI USB card it wouldn't work. If you are using such a card use the on-board USB connectors.

 

[wolluf]

Have you got an IDE adapter lead which allows you to connect notebook drives directly to PC mobo? (they're c. £5 to buy here in uk). You could then connect drive directly & see if any more joy (if still a problem, would suggest drive using drive manufacturer's diagnostic utility to check it out - usually available from their website)

 

[kestrel1]

I have tried one of those addapters & the drives haven't been recognised. Mind you this was a while ago, maybe they have improved them.

 

[wolluf]

kestrel - the adapters allow notebook drives to be connected to a PC - if the drive is sound they work - its a standard IDE interface. By cutting out the USB element, you've a better chance of getting some response from a failing drive - and its usually easier to access the drive for diagnostics etc if its connected in this way.

 

[kestrel1]

The adapter I was using was an old one. Essentually it should have worked & did with older notebook drives. However, didn't like the newer drives. Haven't bothered to get a newer adapter, I wouldn't use it that much.
I find using the USB enclosure works fine for me.
Still the adapter is a very good option & something to think about in the future maybe.