I am using a 500GB My Passport Essential on Windows Vista. When I plug it into my laptop, it doesn’t show up in My Computer but I can see it in Disk Management. It says that 2047.35 GB is unreadable. Device Manager says that Windows cannot load the driver(Code 31). Also I hear clicking when I insert it for a few minutes and then there is no noise. I used Data Lifeguard Diagnostics and the Hard Drive failed both the tests and stated “Too many bad sectors.” Now I am using another software to scan it. It has scanned 156 GB so far and almost 99% of the area shows bad sectors. I have about 5-6 GB of really important data. Can I somehow recover data for free? It is in waranty period. Should I opt for a RMA?
If the drive has too many bad sectors it may be nearly impossible to recover the data using software. looking for a free data recovery software you may give a try to Recuva. With too many bad sectors you must request an RMA.
I have tried recovering the data myself, but that seems to be impossible. I’m going for a RMA. From reading the instructions what I understand is that I have to send only the hard drive and keep the cable, manuals, etc. Is that right?
Will I get the exact same model if the hard disk is replaced?
If you want you can do your replacement online also, here I posted the link
DO A REPLACEMENT NOW
Please do not package the usb cord or ac-adapters if you have one. Keep with you.
Note: Click the Kudos star to say thank you for helpful posts. And click the ‘Accept as Solution’ button for the post that solved your issue.
Not related to the topic. I have another question. Should I use my passport essential just as a backup for the data or should I use it like an external drive permanently connected to the PC?
