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    Extracting Data from Dead computers HDD

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by Undacovabrotha10, Oct 12, 2007.

  1. Undacovabrotha10

    Undacovabrotha10 Notebook Evangelist

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    I have an Insprion 5100 that just died recently, not positive what the problem is exactly (it's a friends computer) all I know is that it won't boot up. Know my question is can I take out the HDD and put into another laptop to extract the data so it is not lost. If that is possible how do I know what types of laptops I can put the HDD in to get the data off?

    I have a T60 and an old HP Pavillion, any help would be appreciated.

    Thanks
     
    Undacovabrotha10, Oct 12, 2007
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  2. Greg

    Greg Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Even if you put the HDD into another computer, chances are it won't boot because the drivers will be so different. I'd recommend buying a USB<=>IDE enclosure and plug it into another computer that way.
     
    Greg, Oct 12, 2007
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  3. Undacovabrotha10

    Undacovabrotha10 Notebook Evangelist

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    That would basicly make it an external hard drive right? How much would that cost me and where would I purchase one?
     
    Undacovabrotha10, Oct 12, 2007
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  4. Skibums

    Skibums Notebook Evangelist

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    You can always get an USB 2.5" external enclosure. Here are some from newegg

    They are relatively cheap
     
    Skibums, Oct 13, 2007
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  5. Sredni Vashtar

    Sredni Vashtar Notebook Evangelist

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    you might want to try a linux live cd on the laptop with the old disk: it will run from cd and won't need the hard disk. it will load the correct drivers and, if the hd is not dead it will allow you to read its content and save it to a usb stick or an external drive.

    certain live distros can run from memory, Iguess in that case you could use the cd burner on the laptop to save your data.

    three distros you could use: kanotix, knoppix, mepis.
     
    Sredni Vashtar, Oct 14, 2007
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