Recover files from old HDD

Discussion in 'Software' started by SimonKD1980, Jul 30, 2013.

  1. SimonKD1980

    SimonKD1980 Private E-2

    I have an old HDD from a laptop. I got hold of a cable that lets me access the files and that is no problem. Now I have found out that some of the files I want are in the Recycle Bin on the old HDD (my partners idea of keeping them safe I tend not to ask :p). So far I have:

    1. Tried explorer to $Recycle.bin - It shows no files.
    2. CMD to $Recycle.bin - but when I try to copy for access a directory within it says Access Denined.

    Any help would be great.
     
    SimonKD1980, Jul 30, 2013
    #1
  2. DavidGP

    DavidGP MajorGeeks Forum Administrator - Grand Pooh-Bah Staff Member

    Hi

    Which Windows Version and Service Pack are you using and what did the old HDD use?

    What you likely need to do is to unhide the system files as the folder you would be looking for is called Recycler and to do this click My Computer > Tools > Folder Options > View then in the list tick Show Hidden Files and Folders and untick Hide protected operating system files (recommended) and click Apply.

    Then in the root of the drive you should see a Folder named like this $RECYCLE.BIN open it up and you may also see files named like this S-1-5-21-3750332192-2349829548-720702053-1004 and to access then you will have to take Ownership of files and folders, suing the below


    XP Instructions I have listed and only with you mentioning OLD HDD

    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308421

    Then that should give you access to those folders.
     
    DavidGP, Jul 30, 2013
    #2
  3. SimonKD1980

    SimonKD1980 Private E-2

    The old HDD is Windows 7 and I am on Windows 8 although I can use XP if it's easier.
     
    SimonKD1980, Jul 30, 2013
    #3
  4. SimonKD1980

    SimonKD1980 Private E-2

    I plugged the Win 7 External HDD into my XP machine. I was able to see the folders no problem through explorer. Within $Recycle.BIN there are 6 Recycle bins and each one contains the contents of the machine I am using recycle bin rather than the old HDD's recycle bin...
     
    SimonKD1980, Jul 30, 2013
    #4
  5. DavidGP

    DavidGP MajorGeeks Forum Administrator - Grand Pooh-Bah Staff Member

    Hi

    These are the instructions for taking ownership of Windows 7 files and folders http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc753659.aspx

    or if plugged into a Windows 8 PC then use these HERE and see if this allows access to the files.

    If you can plug the HDD you are recovering data from direct into SATA on the Windows 8 PC that may work better than USB, just have a vague memory about that not working for me via USB in the past.
     
    DavidGP, Aug 2, 2013
    #5

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