When your computer throws an error message that there has been a ‘fixed disk read error’ or ‘hard drive failure’, don’t panic because your computer and all your data is completely lost yet. Before you send your computer in for repair, there are some free recovery software tools that can help you.
The starting point for troubleshooting a hard drive failure is to think about any new hardware you just added. These can cause system conflicts with your drive (causing it to disappear in the BIOS) that can be resolved by removing the hardware.
Next, if your computer doesn’t start correctly, try booting into safe mode. If this works, then the problem is software related, rather than hardware, which is a positive sign. Make copies of all your crucial data before attempting any repair.
Your drive may simply have faults with the partition table and master boot record system files. There is an excellent free tool called Test Disk from CG Security that can automate repairs to these files quite effectively.
It is also possible that your Windows registry has become corrupted. You can use the Windows System Restore tool (under Programs > Accessories > System Tools) to revert system files to an established checkpoint. While this will reverse any recent registry corruption, it will also affect programs installed or updated as of the release date. However, this can be remedied by reinstalling the apps.
Finally, if you think your data has been lost, deleted, or formatted, free recovery software such as Recuva or PC Inspectors Smart Recover can help identify the files that are still on your hard drive.
If these steps don’t help or you think there is a mechanical failure with the hard drive (seized bearings/read heads, etc.), data recovery experts have the necessary disk reading tools and specialized recovery software to read even broken records.