How to Recover Data from an Electrical Damage Hard Disk?

Summary: Hard drives, or HDDs, are among the most popular storage media solutions. These dependable, portable storage devices, however, are susceptible to electrical damage. If you are struggling with a dead HDD with electrical damage, you might lose the data on the drive. In this blog, we explore how to recover data from an Electrical Damage Hard Disk. We’ll also walk you through the what, why, and how of electrical damage in HDDs. Plus, there’s practical advice for preventing future damage.

Struggling with a failed HDD? Worried about losing your valuable data?

Don’t worry.

Hard drive failure is more common than you may imagine. In many cases, this drive failure is due to electrical damage to the hard drive—think power surges, faulty power supplies, unexpected outages. These and many other reasons can cause electrical damage to HDDs. Irrespective of what causes the issue, data loss is often one of the worst outcomes and the biggest concern for users.

But don’t worry; it is possible to recover data from an Electrical Damage Hard Disk.

In his blog, we will walk you through:

1. What is a Hard Drive?
2. What Causes Electrical Damage in Hard Drives?
3. Is Data Recovery Possible After Electrical Damage?
4. Ways to Recover Data from a Hard Drive with Electrical Damage
5. FAQs

Dive in and recover data from an electrical damage hard disk soon.

Before we discuss how to recover data from electrically damaged HDDs, it is important to understand the insides of a hard drive.

What is a Hard Drive?

An HDD is a key storage component for laptops and desktops and is widely used to store large amounts of data, including system files, apps, and other personal data.

While Solid State Drives (SSDs) are more popular today, HDDs are still widely used.

HDDs store data on rotating disks called platters, with a magnetic coating to hold the data. An actuator arm moves across the platters with a read/write head that accesses or records data by altering the magnetic charges.

Now, let’s look at what causes electrical damage in hard drives.

What Causes Electrical Damage in Hard Drives?

Electrical damage in hard drives can happen due to many reasons. Depending on what caused it, the nature of electrical damage differs. Here are some common types of electrical damage:

1. Power Surges

Sudden spikes in electrical current can overwhelm the drive’s circuitry. These surges typically occur due to:

• Lightning strikes
• Faulty power supplies
• Sudden power restorations after outages

All this can cause serious damage to the drive’s internal components.

2. Overvoltage or Undervoltage

Using an HDD with an inconsistent power supply – too much or insufficient power – can also cause damage. Over time, this irregular power flow stresses the drive’s circuits, causing failures.

3. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

Static electricity can accumulate on surfaces or within electronic devices. This accumulated power may also discharge into the HDD if not handled properly. This shock can damage sensitive electronic components on the circuit board.

4. Faulty Power Adapters or Cables

Using incompatible or damaged power adapters can result in excessive power delivery.

This inconsistent current is particularly common when generic or low-quality adapters are used. It can lead to fried circuits or short circuits in the drive.

5. Short Circuits

Damaged cables, faulty internal components, or physical damage to the drive can cause short circuits. Irrespective of the underlying issue, it causes an uncontrolled flow of electricity.

This affects circuitry and leads to immediate HDD failure or irreversible component damage.

6. Incorrect Power Connections

Attaching a hard drive to an incorrect power source delivers unintended current levels, which can result in immediate circuit board damage or burning out of internal components.

But here’s the good part: Most HDDs have built-in safety parts on the PCB. These safety parts protect important components from electrical damage. Usually, electrical issues only affect these safety parts. So, replacing them can bring the hard drive back to working order.

However, the hard drive may not power on if these parts are damaged or missing. But don’t worry; electrical damage is usually easy to fix.

But what about the data stored on an HDD that suffers electrical damage?

Is Data Recovery Possible After Electrical Damage in Hard Drive?

Yes, there are several techniques to recover data from a hard drive with electrical damage. The specific method and success rate depend on the extent of the damage.

With the right data loss solutions, this data can often be accessed or restored. Let’s look at some of these methods.

Ways to Recover Data from an Electrical Damage Hard Disk

Important: Do not try these recovery techniques on your own if you are not an expert. Incorrect recovery techniques can further the damage and make data recovery impossible.

Method 1: Inspect and Replace the PCB

If the electrical damage is localized, you can replace the PCB. Using a compatible donor PCB often restores power and access. Here’s how it is done:

1. Carefully disconnect the drive from the laptop or desktop computer.
2. Check the PCB for burns or any signs of damage.

3. Arrange for a compatible replacement PCB.
4. Transfer the BIOS chip to the new PCB.
5. Reattach and test the drive.

Method 2: Check and Replace the TVS Diode

TVS diodes protect against voltage surges and can be replaced if damaged. To replace a damaged TVS diode,

• Identify the TVS diode on the PCB.
• Use a multimeter to test diode functionality.
• Replace it if it shows a short circuit.
• Reinstall the PCB and test the hard drive.

Method 3: Use Donor Parts for Critical Components

For more complex damages, you may want to use compatible parts from a donor hard drive.

Here’s how you can do that:

1. Find a matching donor HDD with identical specifications.
2. Swap out the damaged components.
3. Test the hard drive for accessibility.

Method 4: Employ Power Surge Protection Devices

Using power surge protectors helps protect the hard drive from further damage. Here’s how to do that use a power surge protection device:

• Connect the hard drive to a protected power source.
• Attempt data extraction in safe power conditions.

Important: Power surge protectors cannot undo existing damage. However, they can prevent further issues during recovery.

Method 5: Use Data Recovery Software like Stellar Data Recovery

Electrical damage didn’t impact the internal storage medium? You are in luck. In such cases, you can use data recovery software to get your data back.

Stellar Data Recovery for Windows is one such professional tool you can use. You can recover data from any drive in 3 simple steps using Stellar’s software:

Stellar’s software has a user-friendly interface that simplifies data recovery.

Note: In most cases, when an electrical fault in the HDD causes a logical error that leads to data corruption or removal, you can recover your data using Stellar Data Recovery software.

All you need to do is scan the drive, and you will see a preview of the recoverable files. Once you have verified that the files you want to recover are present, you can purchase the license and retrieve your data. This is a safe and secure method, and you only need to buy the license if you are sure your data is recoverable.

Method 6: Use Hard Disk Recovery Services from Stellar

If the electrical damage is extensive, none of the above-mentioned data loss solutions would work. Professional recovery services are the best option in such cases. Stellar offers professional hard disk recovery services. With an up to 100% recovery rate, Stellar offers you the highest chance of getting your data back.

To avail of Stellar’s data recovery services, you need to:

1. Visit our website and answer quick questions about your HDD and the issues.
2. Request a call-back from the Stellar experts by submitting your details.

3. Our data recovery experts will then reach out to explain our recovery process.
4. Ship your device or take it to the nearest Stellar data recovery center.
   • Take advantage of our free shipping service to send your device to the nearest center, or you can visit our branch directly to submit your device.

5. Once we receive your device at our lab, we will begin the analysis.
   • After the analysis, we will send you an inspection report of your device. Once we receive your confirmation, we will proceed with the recovery process.

Getting data back from an electrically damaged hard drive can be challenging, but it is achievable with the right methods and support. So don’t wait—get hard disk recovery services today to regain access to your invaluable data.

Before you dive into the FAQs, explore these helpful articles to resolve your hard drive issues:

• Lost data on your RAID drive? Don’t worry, our RAID Data Recovery Services are here to get your data back quickly and safely!
• If you’re facing Hard Disk Error 3F1, check out our troubleshooting steps here: Fix Hard Disk Error 3F1.
• To resolve the issue of Internal Hard Disk Detected But Not Accessible, find practical solutions here: Fix Internal Hard Disk Not Accessible.
• Hard Disk not showing up in Disk Management? Don’t let it frustrate you—check out how to fix it here: Fix Hard Disk Not Showing in Disk Management.

FAQs

1. Can you recover data from a burnt hard drive?

Yes, it’s often possible. If burn marks appear on the PCB it can be swapped out with a compatible one to restore functionality. Data recovery specialists are skilled in recovering data from various levels of damage. So if your drive is burnt, seek expert data recovery services to maximize your chances of recovery.

2. How to repair a damaged hard disk?

Repairing a damaged hard disk can vary based on the nature of the damage. For electrical issues, you may need to replace the PCB or repair the TVS diode. For physical issues, a Class 100 Cleanroom Lab environment is necessary to avoid further contamination.

Important: Hardware repairs should be handled by professionals to avoid data loss.

3. Is data lost if a hard drive fails?

Data is often recoverable even if the hard drive fails. Failures may be due to mechanical, electrical, or logical errors. Recovery is possible through appropriate methods, such as data recovery software and professional services.

4. How much does hard drive data recovery cost?

The data recovery cost varies depending on the extent of the damage and the recovery methods required. Simple logical recoveries may cost less, but advanced hardware recovery can be more expensive.

You can consult data recovery professionals at Stellar for accurate estimates.

5. What preventative measures should be taken to protect HDD from electrical damage?

You can take several preventive measures to avoid electrical damage to HDDs. Some of these include:

• Always use surge protectors.
• Install a UPS for a steady power supply.
• Keep the hard drive cool and ventilated.
• Avoid overloading circuits.
• Use quality power supplies.
• Regularly inspecting for potential electrical faults.
• Unplug the device connected to the HDDs during storms.
• Always check for and ensure stable voltage levels.
• Do not expose the HDD to liquids or moisture.
• Schedule routine maintenance for your hardware.

These preventative measures ensure your HDD is safe and your data is intact.