Hard Drive Question.

[pinakfans]

If the hard drive is damaged, faulty. or just "went out" will that prevent the laptop from starting? Or can it still start? to login etc?

 

[garysgold]

If the harddrive is dead, you won't be able to boot into windows.

 

[pinakfans]

Ok thanks I was wondering. At first I though my motherboard was down, it could be the hard drive. The laptop starts it just freezes at the logo and makes popping sounds

 

[whs]

Use any linux CD and boot from the CD reader (change the boot sequence in the BIOS). Then you will see whether the PC still functions without the HDD.

 

[theog]

Hi

Have a look at these tutorials they may be of help:

http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/91467-startup-repair.html?ltr=S

http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/76905-system-restore-how.html?ltr=S

http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/66978-system-files-sfc-command.html?ltr=S

 

[uid0]

Depending on the manufacturer of the unit, you could also try running a HDD/Memory diagnostic from the BIOS. If it is POSTing, however after post freezing you could very well be looking at a faulty HDD. If you hear a clicking noise, it is most likely the actuator arm within the HDD itself, it's usually the first thing to go out.