Hard disk failure

Sorry if this should be under the software forum

When I start up my laptop I get the message

"SMART Failure Predicited on Hard Disk

Warning: Immediately back-up data and replace your hard disk drive. A failure may be imminent

Press F1 to Continue"


When I press F1 it asks if I want to do a start up repair or start Windows normally.

No matter which option I choose, it goes to the normal windows loading screen, then after several minutes goes to a black screen, and just sits there.

Is there anything I can do about this? Replacing the Hard Disk isn't really an option, as it's a laptop. I tried using a windows disc to boot it, and reinstall windows, but it just ends up at the same black screen. Please help me.

 

sounds like your drive has failed. replacing the drive might be your only option. you could download a hard drive testing software. there are a few that come in a bootable cd option. Ultimate boot cd is one that comes with many testing software on it.

 

Is it difficult to switch drives? Where can I find one? It's for a Gateway Model: MT6707

 

It looks like a very easy swap-out http://support.gateway.com/s/Mobile/2007/Oasis/OasisMTbv.shtml, where you buy a replacement from depends on where you are and whether you are happy to buy online or not.

 

in a laptop you can swap the drive easier than a desktop in my opinion. you can go to a computer shop and get a 500gb hdd, you probably have no other option

 

Some laptops have to be totally disassembled to get the HD out.

It would be much better to leave the job to trained technicians. Laptops were never meant for "Do it yourselfers".

Also, you'll need to do a transfer of all your data files from the old drive to the new one.
Most home users don't have the knowledge or equipment to do that. Any decent repair shop will.

Good Luck,
Shadow

 

Please read the link I posted earlier.
http://support.gateway.com/s/Mobile/2007/Oasis/OasisMTbv.shtml It really does look like an easy task

Adding your existing hard drive to an external USB case (also very easy) should allow you to pull your old data over to the laptop once you have Windows installed on the new drive.

 

Saving data isn't an issue, as there's nothing important on it. Can I just buy any 2.5"? Do any electronic stores have them? Or would some computer stores have them? Or will I have to order it online?

 

Halo gave you the drive info earlier in the thread

2.5"" SATA, the original was/is 160GB in capacity, you could buy eg. a 320 or 500GB instead if you choose to.

Many electronic stores that stock PC parts may have replacement hard drives but almost all computer shops should have them in stock or will be able to have one ready for you within a day or two.