How to test health of external hard drive

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Is there a way to test the health of an external hard drive? I used Belarc for the PC, but am concerned about the back up drive and would like to determine if the issues I’ve been having are due to it or me!

Thanks for any help,

Linda

P.S. Not sure if this post belongs here or in Hardware. Will move if needed.

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Is there a way to test the health of an external hard drive? am concerned about the back up drive and would like to determine if the issues I’ve been having are due to it or me!

Thanks for any help,

,

Linda,

Hello…There is a Great program called Hard Disk Sentinel Pro I have been reviewing it for several days and it will give you all HD information that your after …and then some. I liked it so much that i purchased it almost immediately.. You can download a trial version to test out with your “Hardware”… but they give you a “Discount” if you purchase… Somewhere around $27.00. For me this is just what i needed..to keep tabs of my HD’s…:cheers: Regards Fred

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Thanks, J.P.Fred! Sounds perfect. I’ve checked the site and will download the trial to get a better feel for it. Will post back with results – and, more than likely, more questions!

Linda

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Oh, rats. It looks as if I can’t figure out how to read the program’s results. I’ve attached a screen shot of what I got when I ran the trial of Sentinel. To me, it seems as if it can’t read the external drive, which I did attach before running the program.

Sorry to be dense on this. I think the drive that has the unknown and the ? is the external one, but I am not at all sure. Why would it not be appearing in the results? The drive is plugged in to a USB port and power and its “on” light is on.

Any suggestions?

Linda:huh:

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Oh, rats. It looks as if I can’t figure out how to read the program’s results. I’ve attached a screen shot of what I got when I ran the trial of Sentinel. To me, it seems as if it can’t read the external drive, which I did attach before running the program.

Any suggestions?

Linda ,
Hello.. When you plug the “External HD” in how does it show in Windows Explorer? Is it assigned a drive letter?.. Make sure that you “Scroll” down the choices of which drive to look at… May be it’s at the bottom of the list … The only other thing is This :cheers: Regards Fred

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Thanks, Just Plain Fred. Will give that a try and report back … Okay, here’s what happened and it’s strange: I can’t “find” the external drive on any of the letters in Windows Explorer. Each drive letter (aside from C and D, the HP Recovery partition, I believe) says “Please insert a disk into removable drive F, G, H, I” when I double click on it. I’ve double checked and the drive is plugged into computer via a USB port on the front of the PC tower. I’ve tried it on the 2 USB ports there with the same result.

To me it seems as if the drive is not being ‘seen’ by the software. What are your thoughts?

Linda

P.S. I’m going to shut down for the evening as my brain is fogged so don’t worry about replying in your usual super responsive way … tomorrow or even later is fine.

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tomorrow or even later is fine.

Linda…
Me too …But have a look in “Disk Management” You may have to assign your external a “Drive letter ” ( after connecting) Right click …Drop down …select letter:cheers: Regards Fred

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This question is likely of interest only to JP Fred, but wanted to post it here by way of continuing the conversation. First, a confession: my new disk drive is still in its box, awaiting set up, reformatting and using! Its installation is currently scheduled for Friday and I’ll post back on how that goes

Question: HD Sentinel (free version still) has been giving my main PC a 97% score and saying it had 2 bad sectors since I first used the program back in March. Suddenly, beginning in August, the score has been dropping:

[*]94% August 4
[*]92% August 20
[*]91% on the 22nd
[*]89% on the 30th
[*]86% beginning on August 31, with 9 bad sectors!

Performance and Health are still rated as Excellent, but this rapid change has me concerned (another reason I can’t put off the new external drive any longer).

Any idea what this means or why it is happening? Or what I should do about it?

Thanks for any help,

Linda

P.S. F.Y.I. Plan to upgrade to HD Sentinel Pro once external drive set up complete.

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Back it up ASAP. If you are getting more and more bad sectors back it up and install a new one.

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Often disk drive manufacturers have diagnostic software you can download.

Joe

--Joe

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These apparently “unused” drive letters may be assigned to ports (slots) in a card reader. I’ve had this happen with an HP PC I’ve worked on.
Phil

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Hi Linda, try this free portable program http://hddscan.com/

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Hello all,
Just wanted to supply more “info” about “HdSentinal” …The best part about this program is that it monitors all HD’s at the same time and displays the HD’s “Temps” °F or °C in your “System Tray”. It monitors all your HD’s in real time and will alert you if something is going wrong ( several areas) . The program is fully customizable for all alerts and settings …As well as many tools to test your HD.. All for less than $30USD’s (Federal Reserve Notes)… Couldn’t beat it if you tried … If you think that there is a better one (free or pay for) that can match it … “Don’t let me get in the way of your success and happiness”, get after it.:cheers: Regards Fred

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Update: (repeated as I just lost everything – pressed “Reply to Thread” instead of Post. Agh!
– software found disk on F, a USB port
– says info is “unknow” with this message: The status of the hard disk is unknown. This USB storage device does not provide more information about itself. Anyway, it can be tested for problems by Disk -> Surface test function.
– can’t get F to show on Disk drop down menu; only options are C or D even if I click on the F drive first

Any thoughts?

Will check out Roderunner’s link and then Joe’s suggestion to see if Maxtor has diagnostic software as their own.

Thank you for all your suggestions. Knowing this disk is healthy is important as it’s where our image backups are stores … and I’m way overdue for an updated image backup!

Will report back once I get to try everything.

Linda

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can’t get F to show on Disk drop down menu; only options are C or D even if I click on the F drive first

Any thoughts?

Linda,
Hello…The “Drop Down” that I’m referring to , Is the one if you “Right Click” on a Hard Drive that does not already have a letter assigned…This is done when you Open “Disk Manager” (Windows) .. There are several “Free Hardware managers” This one “Hard Drive Sentinel” is the only “Interactive” one that i have found..That will alert you in the event of an impending failure (real time) of the Hard Drive ….not just give the data when you “open” it, and has the ability to change settings to your liking … Hope you can get it to work …Post back if i can be of further assistance…:cheers: Regards Fred

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Hi Roderunner,

Finally tried your program. Unfortunately, can’t get Windows to recognize the device, no matter which USB port I use (front or rear). The Windows message says to try and reconnect again and, if that fails, replace the device! I’m beginning to think that is my only option, although I am going through the rest of this thread now to see if I’ve missed anything!

Thanks for the link: the program looks easy to use and is free!

Linda

P.S. Will also follow your suggestion re. Check Disk after I’ve moved the key image backups onto a more reliable piece of hardware!

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Okay. Got it. The drop down I meant in my post was the one the Sentinel program asked me to check when it couldn’t find any info re. the drive (The status of the hard disk is unknown. This USB storage device does not provide more information about itself. Anyway, it can be tested for problems by Disk -> Surface test function.)

Clicking Disk -> Surface test gave me only the C/D drive options. I wasn’t very clear in my post – sorry!

As an added bit of information, I’m getting messages like the attached one periodically as well as a Window message saying it can’t recognize the device in the USB port. Howver, every so often the option to open drive files to view them does come up just before that Windows message. This weirdness and inconsistency is what has led me to believe the drive has an issue, but I just can’t get that confirmed in Sentinel! … at least, not yet.

Does any of this suggest any other things I can try or what I’m doing wrong?

Linda

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Does any of this suggest any other things I can try or what I’m doing wrong?

Hi Linda,
When you have you “External HD plugged In” go to Administrative Tools>Computer Management>Disk Management….Look on the bottom half of the screen (Scroll down) and find your Drive “F”…(If it shows up) It might show as a drive with no letter assignment…Especially look at this when you get the error message. If the drive Shows up (as F) then it will show up when you look at “Computer” (Windows Explorer) ..If it’s present in both… then the HD sentinel Program does not see it, the reason being is in the link that i gave in post 5:cheers: Regards Fred

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Im new to this discussion so please accept my apologies if I error.

All these hd health programs dont seem give to give any vital info about the hardware. Ive had hd failures about every 2 years, tried many recovery methods all which are useless including swapping platers. What I want to know is before failure : head condition, thickness, arm action, disc speed and runout, Not just surface condition or bad sectors, and expected hours of time left before its dead or about to croak. Are ssd’s the answer? Maybe… Even when the drives are under warranty its bull, what junk are they selling us.
I now use Acronis with a clone drive hoping at the next failure I be up and running same day. But for the hd health software forum, $27 or however cheap I feel its completely useless as far as the critical information you need to keep it alive.

Geoff

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I have one question about HD Sentinel. I understand it runs continually in the backgroud testing your HDDs. Will this continual exercising of the drives cause undue ware and tear and maybe cause them to fail prematurelly?

Thanks

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I have one question about HD Sentinel. I understand it runs continually in the backgroud testing your HDDs. Will this continual exercising of the drives cause undue ware and tear and maybe cause them to fail prematurelly?

jarome,
Hello…the short answer is no …. See this HD Sentinel Link also the FAQ’s:cheers: Regards Fred

PS: Also S.M.A.R.T.

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I’ve been away from this thread (and my hard drive issue!) for a while and was amazed (and delighted) with all the new information that was here. I did purchase a new (enclosed) external drive but it still is in the box. Need to grab a big chunk of time to get it right (and, to be honest, I’m still nervous!).

To answer some earlier posts:

[*]I have tried other USB hardware with no difficulties but have not tried a new cable for the existing external drive
[*]very interested in the posts about “failing” or inconsistently viewable drives; think I’ll try removing the case on the old drive to see if that corrects things. Will get new one up and running first and post back what happens. David, thanks for the link.
[*]had researched docking stations, too: I think it a good idea to use one if I try a “no external case” drive
[*]maybe it is a power supply issue – I recall some of the drive scanning programs suggesting the drive had spin up problems; if that’s the issue, would the docking station solution help?
[*]Alan, appreciate your thought on BIOS but have no idea how I would tackle that one.

Current plan:

[*]get new drive installed and computer properly “imaged”
[*]go back through all these helpful suggestions/ posts and try again to “save” the old hard drive; it’s barely over a year old!
[*]post progress – and any further questions.

Thanks to everyone who is contributing on this thread. Terrific information and education. I continue to be amazed – and delighted – by the quality of the people in this Lounge and their willingness to help!

Linda

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Fred–

I downloaded and paid for HD Sentinental and I must say I am impressed. The only problem is I can’t make it Start with Windows. I have checked the Configuration options and everything seems to be set correctly. I have to remember to start it manually everytime I boot the computer or it won’t work in the bachground and do its job. Any ideas?

Thanks.

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Fred–

I downloaded and paid for HD Sentinental and I must say I am impressed. The only problem is I can’t make it Start with Windows. Any ideas?

Jarome,
Hello… it’s possible that your security is preventing the program from starting …You also can use this free program Whats in Startup[/url] to see if your HD sentinel is registered to do so:cheers: Regards Fred

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I shut down security temporarily (MSE) but that had no effect. Whats in Startup shows nothing related to HD Sentinel so the program never starts with Windows. It would be a much better program if somehow you could make it start with Windows and not have to start it manually every time you turn on your computer. I sent an email to the developer but so far no response. Thanks for your help.

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I shut down security temporarily (MSE) but that had no effect. Whats in Startup shows nothing related to HD Sentinel so the program never starts with Windows. It would be a much better program if somehow you could make it start with Windows and not have to start it manually every time you turn on your computer. I sent an email to the developer but so far no response. Thanks for your help.

Jarome,
OK ..as i don’t have a “Trial” version… have a look at the Screen Shot of how i have my HD Sentinel configured:cheers: Regards Fred

PS: Maybe that the “Trial” does not give all options …Give “Jerry’s suggestion a try

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I don’t have the Trial Version either. We both have the same version. I heard from the developer and he says that the program actually starts from the Windows Task Scheduler. When I check the Task Scheduler it shows the HardDiskSentinel folder is there but no tasks are visible. When I click on Display All Running Tasks, the message shown below pops up. I checked Services and the Task Scheduler Service is running and cannot be stopped. Looks like I have a problem with the Task Scheduler. It doesn’t recognize that the Task Scheduler Service is running. Have you seen this problem before? I searched Google bit no fix there.

Thanks, John

31378-TS

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Hi John,
No i have not heard of this kind of problem before.. Am i understanding that you can’t change the settings in “Services” ? See Screen Shot’s of my OS… Just in the case there is some corruption you could try running … sfc /scannow (system file checker) from an “Elevated Command Prompt”.. If some file has gone corrupt this will try to repair it.:cheers: Regards Fred

PS: You might try to “Create the task” yourself …just click on it and follow the screens

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You should check that your drivers are ACTUALLY loaded. Sometimes “things happen”. Open up the computericon or a method to see the device manager and see if the USB drivers are working. Some PCs have preconfigurations the preassign devices but that can usually be undone. In addition, check that the USB port is working … they do “go out” sometimes. A tight fit is not always a guarantee that it’s working. This advice also applies to your USB cable. When you plug in the drive and the drive light is on, that’s a good indication that the hardware is working. Thus check that the drivers are working.

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I’ll do a double check on the drivers and the connections. I’ve “sort of” checked before, but your advice re. the light being on is helpful. Other devices do work in the USB slots so that makes me think they are OK; however, I don’t have another USB cable for the external drive to try – I just did a visual check on it. From the sounds of it, that isn’t sufficient. Would I just purchase a new test cable at a computer supply store?

Thanks,

Linda

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Linda

If your sure that it’s failing, move all the files somewhere else, then do this.

30416-rr

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Thanks, Fred. I do appreciate your patience and the fact that you continue to try and explain things that must be so obvious to you to those of us (i.e., me!) who just can’t seem to follow! I’ll keep trying and will post back outcomes.

Many thanks, oh patient one!!

Linda

P.S. Oops, just saw Roderunner’s post (hadn’t checked Page 2). Will do that as well and post results.

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Thanks, Fred. I do appreciate your patience and the fact that you continue to try and explain things that must be so obvious to you to those of us (i.e., me!) who just can’t seem to follow! I’ll keep trying and will post back outcomes.

Linda ,
Nothing special…. It’s just that i can relate of how overwhelming PC’s and related “Blah, Blah can be … it wasn’t so long ago that i was a “Newbie” trying to catch up … Just trying to help those who were “in my shoes” :cheers: Regards Fred

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And those of us now in those shoes are highly appreciative!

Update: things get weirder and weirder! This morning, when I booted up, the external drive was picked up by Sentinel! It turns out it’s on K and not F. I took a screen shot of what it found (attached). Glad I did because, when I tried to find out more about its low health rating, the drive was mysteriously unavailable again and its little green temperature box in the system tray was gone!

Anyway, I would appreciate input on what the findings say about this drive and if it’s safe to use going forward. I haven’t pursued the other posters solutions yet because of what happened this morning but will if still advisable.

Puzzled but persistent,

Linda

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Update: things get weirder and weirder! This morning, when I booted up, the external drive was picked up by Sentinel! It turns out it’s on K and not F. I took a screen shot of what it found (attached). Glad I did because, when I tried to find out more about its low health rating, the drive was mysteriously unavailable again and its little green temperature box in the system tray was gone!

Linda,
Hello…See my post #15 and Using “Windows” look in “Disk Management” when these “Wonky” things are happening… Also look in “Computer” and see what is showing up “K:” or “F:” ? and does it go away …Only there when booting (from a cold PC) Could be a “Temp” problem with the drive ..or something is loose …. The “External” should not just “Vanish” Seems that there might be more than one problem…:cheers: Regards Fred

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Thanks, Fred. Will do. I’ve been trying to attend to this in the midst of a lot of other things and realize I need to set aside a block of time and work through all the suggestions mentioned to get to the root of this … and find out if I can rely on this external drive. Will do so between now and the end of the week and post back actions/results.

Question: Does the “40%” on the Health meter for the external drive mean anything? Certainly the internal drive was not that low! (97%).

Appreciate all the patient help and guidance!

Linda

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Linda,
As you have an “Unregistered Version” seems that you can’t “see” the same screens as in my Screen Shot… Click on the “?” and scroll down for an explanation of how they come up with the “Health Scores”…etc.. I’m guessing that your 40% means that your HD has some “Problems” As a score of 100% means Perfect:cheers: Regards Fred

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Okay, thanks Fred. Health meter at 40% identified as “Acceptable”. The ? beside Health did provide lots of information, most of it a tad over my head! Screen did include this note in a yellow box below the meters:

Problems occurred during the spin up of the disk 526 times. This can be caused by the disk itself or huge power load (weak power supply).
At this point, warranty replacement of the disk is not yet possible, only if the health drops further. It is recommended to examine the log of the disk regularly. All new problems found will be logged there.

It is recommended to backup often to prevent data loss.

The Performance meter said Excellent.

My understanding from all this is that the disk is healthy for the moment, but has fewer hours remaining on it than it once had. We should likely not rely solely on it for critical updates (i.e., images) but should have another backup in place as well.

Do you think I’ve interpreted things correctly?

Linda

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We should likely not rely solely on it for critical updates (i.e., images) but should have another backup in place as well.

Do you think I’ve interpreted things correctly?

Hi Linda,
Yes… you have … The HdSentinel program identifies problems ( some possible future) The full program ( pay for Pro) will keep you apprised of any further developments, with real time warnings.. One question have you figured out why the external seems to at times disappear ..and the reappear on it’s own?

As far as keeping Images… I’m “totally out of control”… I backup all OS’s at the very least weekly, and have three externals that i keep Images on …Besides the two Data HD’s that are installed in my PC … Like i said a bit over the top.(suffers from OCD)… This is mostly not that my Data is so important …It’s just that i am always “Messing” with them….(how i learn what not to do)…I think that a good strategy is (many will have their own) to back up your entire PC at least weekly and store the Images separately both “On” (2nd internal HD) and “Off” the PC some other place… In-case of fire, or theft, or HD crash…yeah… it happens. Gotta go back to work. tractor calling.:cheers: Regards Fred

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Got it and I may yet go for the paid program – even though it is very technical and I can understand only some of what it’s telling me! I like the fact that it is a constant drive health monitor, especially when all our business data are on this computer (files backed up in the cloud with Mozy, which I like). Image backups, I have to be honest about, are new to me as of this PC and the Lounge’s advice. I have been remiss in doing them on a regular basis. That’s the main reason I’ve been trying to determine if this external drive is safe for them.

As for your question about the drive appearing and disappearing: no, haven’t solved that. It did that again today: was on when I got the new stats; then, the temp disappeared from the tray and I got a “device driver not found” Windows error. For some reason, no matter which USB port I plug it into, this happens. Just unplugged it (heard a disconnect-sounding noise) and replugged it – green temp is back and it’s on list of drives. Just added a screenshot of the message, which has been popping up frequently since I posted this.

What next re. that issue do you think?

Linda

PS Are temps of 34 and 35 degrees Celsius okay?

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As for your question about the drive appearing and disappearing: no, haven’t solved that. It did that again today:
What next re. that issue do you think?

PS Are temps of 34 and 35 degrees Celsius okay?

Linda,
Hello… The “Temps” are fine around mid upper 90°F’s.. Sounds like your external has a problem…Could be just a bad USB cable. would try and swap it out with another for an easy first try. Next would be something loose inside…and would open it up and have a look see. :cheers: Regards Fred

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And those of us now in those shoes are highly appreciative!

Update: things get weirder and weirder! This morning, when I booted up, the external drive was picked up by Sentinel! It turns out it’s on K and not F. I took a screen shot of what it found (attached). Glad I did because, when I tried to find out more about its low health rating, the drive was mysteriously unavailable again and its little green temperature box in the system tray was gone!

Anyway, I would appreciate input on what the findings say about this drive and if it’s safe to use going forward. I haven’t pursued the other posters solutions yet because of what happened this morning but will if still advisable.

Puzzled but persistent,

Linda

I find it strange that on the right of the image in post #19, under Volume it shows
Active YES

The “Active” flag needs to be set if the BIOS needs to be able to boot into an operating system on that partition.
It is not appropriate for a partition that holds backup files.

I have recently been told that Windows can be unhappy if it sees another “Active” partition,
and just to be doubly sure I have now cancelled an unwanted “Active” flag on my old system partition.

Regards
Alan

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Got it. Will check out functionality of USB drives by trying some other hardward in them. It does continue to happen. This morning both drives showed up on boot; then, external disappeared and attached message popped up!

Will post back what I discover re. the 2 USB drives themselves.

Thanks again – and for reassurance re. temps.

Linda

P.S. I’ve backed up an image on DVDs to be safe while we work through these challenges!!

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Update: both PC USB drives work fine for other devices checked on them. Can’t check the cord itself since it is unique to the external drive, but I don’t really think that is the issue. After all we’ve done here, it seems the drive, even though barely a year old, is not reliable enough to use for important backups (i.e., images). For now, I think I’ll back up on thumb drives and/or DVDs until I can spring for another external drive.

Also, I will go back through all the suggestions in this thread between now and the end of the weekend and ensure I’ve tried everything suggested. After that, a final post with results.

Linda

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Another piece of information. The drive showed up on boot this morning so I tried an image backup. Attached is the message that came up (yet another one to create concern!).

Any thoughts on what this means?

Linda

P.S. Am also working through a troubleshooter re. when device is not found in Windows 7.

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Just a thought, but are you using windows ‘Safe to Remove Hardware’ icon in the system tray when you unplug the drive.

Failing to do so can introduce peculiar problems that are hard to trace back.

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That’s an interesting point … hadn’t been conscious of that icon, but will from now on. Right now, the same things are happening: drive appeared on boot; is now not showing although I’ve touched nothing.
– while it was showing, tried again to do image backup
– windows saw drive but said it was corrupt and that Check Disk might help
– tried to get Check Disk to check the disk several times; checked both boxes and Start – dialog box disappeared and nothing happened each time

Trying not to be frustrated! DVD backup is proving challenging as well (not sure it “took”). Now trying to decide if I just give up on this drive and move to either a new drive (pricey) or a thumb drive.

Or should I keep troubleshooting?

In puzzlement,

Linda

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As those of you who have been helping me will know, I’ve done everything suggested (or at least as much as I could given the foibles of this drive!) and have decided to replace it.

What is my best option:

[*]new external hard drive?
[*]if so, what size would you suggest if it’s to be used primarily for image backups (current is 500 KB; I was considering going up to 1 TB)
[*]several thumb drives?
[*]DVDs?

Thanks for your suggestions – and for all your help through this rather frustrating hard drive odyssey!

Linda

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What is my best option:

[*]new external hard drive?

Hi Linda,
I would go for a 1TB to 2 TB External “Plain Jane HD” ( no imbedded software or programs) and use a “Docking station ” The choice as to which brand and why …It’s your choice .. I personally have used “Hitachi DeskStar’s 7K 1000C’s”Hitachi $130 > $190 Now ( have 6) with no problems , going back to 2007. Directron or NewEgg are reputable vendors.. Just my 2¢…:cheers: Regards Fred

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Thanks for the advice. I’d been looking at Seagate drives, but unsure about them: the current one I have is a Maxtor which has been bought by Seagate. Are the ones you suggested available in retail stores or should I go on-line to find them? Oops – just realized searching drives on-line that you’ve answered this question – found NewEgg!

I’m unfamiliar with docking stations. I do have a UPS to which the hard drive is connected. Do I need a docking station as well for this desktop?

My thinking is to purchase a new external drive; then, reformat this one, run Check Disk and the other disk health checks and see if it can be put back into service. The ongoing puzzle with it has been that the disk health programs keep saying it’s okay (when they can locate the blasted thing!), but Windows says it’s corrupted or can’t be recognized. After trying all Loungers’ suggestions – especially yours, JPFred – I’ve decided not to get any more frustrated and to start fresh … the only problem with this is that it really irritates me that I can’t get this figured out!!!

Again, many thanks.

Linda

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I’m unfamiliar with docking stations. I do have a UPS to which the hard drive is connected. Do I need a docking station as well for this desktop?

Linda,
Hello… Docking stations are connected to you PC via USB ( Universal Serial Bus) connector take a look see Docking Stations I have no experience with them as i use another method….Need another “Lounger” to help fill in the “blanks ” here….If not just search “Docking stations” and find one you like ,that will work with your choice of HD’s:cheers: Regards Fred

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Thanks for the info on docking stations. I’d Googled them and had the impression they were needed only for laptops which is why I was asking. Will wait to see if other Loungers have some input, as you suggested, Fred.

Re. the good old hard drive issue, I took a screenshot of what Roderunner’s HDDScan program found when I ran a S.M.A.R.T. scan on it today – when it was actually showing up. Wondered if those 2 yellow items suggested what might be causing my issues with this drive (having trouble letting this go, I know!!). Attached it in case it suggests anything.

Thanks for any input, as always.

Linda

30526-HDDDScan-S..M.A.R.T.

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Thanks for the info on docking stations. I’d Googled them and had the impression they were needed only for laptops which is why I was asking.

Linda,
Docking stations are used for those who either don’t have any room (or choose not to get involved inside the PC case) for a 2nd internal HD . Also many use “Externals ” because it’s a safer option …Having your Data away from your PC ….Think of it as a do it yourself “Cloud”. You can put the HD in a different location…. As far as what your screen shot means…..this is why i use HdSentinel… :cheers: Regards Fred

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Now I understand docking stations! Thank you. Yes, I figured you wouldn’t get much out of this particular screen shot, but Sentinel is equally confusing since it tells me all is well aside from being only 40% “healthy”.

Do you think my strategy (i.e., be safe, buy new drive, do backups; reformat current drive) is a sound one, given all we’ve done in this thread?

Linda

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I figured you wouldn’t get much out of this particular screen shot, but Sentinel is equally confusing since it tells me all is well aside from being only 40% “healthy”.

Do you think my strategy (i.e., be safe, buy new drive, do backups; reformat current drive) is a sound one, given all we’ve done in this thread?

Linda,
HdSentinel Pro “Trial” Is not a fully functional program …it just allows you to tell if it can work with your hardware… Your backup paradigm is fine as long as you realize that the “Plain Jane” Hard Drive is not really meant to be continually be swapped around (has exposed components that you should be aware of ) So as long as you treat it “gently”( don’t walk across a carpet and touch the exposed components) it will be fine…I store mine in “Bubble Wrap Static proof bag ” and in a small cardboard box after any operation “Cloning”, “Imaging”, or updating my data. :cheers: Regards Fred

PS: I would “Play ” with the old drive …but wouldn’t trust it.

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I may have driven you crazy with all my posts here, but I have sure learned a lot! Many, many thanks for your patience, Fred, and for all other responders’ input.

Thanks for the heads up re. Plain Jane hard drives and the care you need to take with them. Also noted your reminder that I’m not getting full functionality from Sentinel Pro until I upgrade to the full version.

A follow up “dumb” question: does care warning apply to external drives that look to be enclosed in a black box that stand up beside your computer?

Linda

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A follow up question: does care warning apply to external drives that look to be enclosed in a black box that stand up beside your computer?

Linda,
No …The problem comes from the fact that the “Plain Jane” HD’s are made to install into a PC.. ( not be plugged and un-plugged ) and they have sensitive exposed circuitry … Just make certain that the “Black Box” HD does not have some kind of pre-installed software and is a 3.5 Inch ( as opposed to 2.5″ laptop type) 3.5 being faster (RPM wise)… Regards Fred

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Aha. That explains the photo I saw when I Googled your Hitachi drive – it looked “exposed”. Think I’m going to go with an enclosed drive. The ones I’ve seen (office retail stores) all seem to have software bundled with them (the current one did, too). Do I delete it or can I find them without the software? Thanks for the heads up re. 3.5.

Linda

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Linda,
There are several threads about “Loungers” who bought a HD with some kind of “Bundled ” software horror stories …. Do yourself a favor and if the HD has anything on it from some software vendor RUN!.:flee: The “Plain Jane” is fine…as long as your aware of the potential problems… It’s still the best option in my opinion.:cheers: Regards Fred

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A strong message reinforced with visuals! Yes, I have read some of the horror stories – part of why I asked.

I usually purchase computer hardware at my local office supply retail chain store. If they don’t carry software-free drives, is my next option to go on-line to one of the vendors you recommended earlier?

Really, patient JPFred, this should be my last question!

Linda

P.S. Really like that running smiley!

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I usually purchase computer hardware at my local office supply retail chain store. If they don’t carry software-free drives, is my next option to go on-line to one of the vendors you recommended earlier?

Linda,
I have found that the “Local’s” can not compete with the choices that are available “On Line” …At least search all the available on line and then if the local has what you want…. Sometimes it’s a “Wash” Shipping costs vs Local Tax etc. Yes… Directron, NewEgg, Tiger Direct, et-al are reliable and good choices…Have purchased many things from them …:cheers:Regards Fred

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Just to re-open the thread.

Joe

--Joe

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Well, here it is weeks later and no external hard drive yet purchased! Not for lack of trying. Hitachi I wanted to get (1 TB, USB 2.0) was “out of stock” and then out of production I guess as I could no longer find it in recommended on-line sites. I now see a local sale on Seagate GoFlex external drives. Reading earlier posts here and some reviews, my thinking is it would work IF I first format the drive before using to get rid of any pre-installed software.

Does any lounger reading have input on this? It’s not the ideal solution I was after (and worked so hard with J.P. Fred on!), but thought it would at least give me a workable back up drive so I can get images transferred and do some new ones.

I’m open to input and prepared to keep looking if this is a bad idea. Reviews are all over the map for this product!

Thanks for any suggestions either way,

Linda

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I suspect that your enclosure is the problem as mentioned in the link in Fred’s post #5. I would try using a docking station as these are much better and you can remove and change drives without any tools. Try one of these from Amazon.

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Thanks for your suggestion. Can you clarify a couple of things for me?
1. by “enclosure” do you mean the case the current Maxtor external hard drive is in (it was in it out of the box)?
2. I reread JP Fred’s post re. docking stations again and checked picture. If you go this route, do you then buy an external drive that is “open” to the air? And then it fits into the docking station?
3. Can someone non-techy, as I am, manage such a back up set up?

These are pretty basic, I know, but my external backup solution so far has been a “purchased at an office supply store in a box” external drive I just plugged into the power bar and a USB port, set on the floor and it worked (well, until I started having these issues!!).

Appreciate your patience on this.

Linda

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This thread might not be active, but trying here before starting new one since it’s on the same topic …

Background: Still without a new external hard drive. Data being backed up regularly in the cloud, but image backups are pending. Can’t find recommended new Hitachi external USB 2.0 1 TB drives that can sit beside my PC anywhere on-line – just USB 3.0. Don’t want to go the docking station route right now ($ and space).

Question: If I can get a Seagate 1 TB USB 2.0 locally (around $100 – 130) and reformat it to remove preloaded software, will that suffice for my needs (mostly image backups)?

Thanks for any suggestions!

Linda:confused:

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Question: If I can get a Seagate 1 TB USB 2.0 locally (around $100 – 130) and reformat it to remove preloaded software, will that suffice for my needs (mostly image backups)?

Linda,
There’s the “Problem” …Now i can’t speak to the “SeaGate” unit.. but this forum has many threads about loungers who tried to do just that.. and …failed… Sometimes the “pre loaded software” cannot be removed … Still think that a “Docking station” with a “Plain Jane” HD is the best solution , others being 2nd ,3rd, etc. You can get 1TB dives Directron for about the same price as stated …+ whatever the cost of the docking station… Can’t advise on that …perhaps others who have one can … You can do this! ….Just be careful handling the bare HD..Piece of cake!:cheers: Regards Fred

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I always believe Loungers over manufacturers, all of whom assure me that their software can be removed without problem, so you have convinced me.

Checked earlier post’s links on docking stations and see that they don’t have to be huge or pricey. Will check some out in a local store to get a feel for the features I need – if they have them. If I have that, then I’ll look for the Hitachi Plain Jane as you suggested a number of posts ago and hope it’s available in a USB 2.0 configuration.

2 little questions:
1. once the “Plain Jane” is carefully installed in the docking station, do you know if it is “protected”, sort of as if it were in a case?
2. is a “Plain Jane” drive the same as an Internal drive? Seem to see those 2 on sites: internal or in cases.

Will post back with progress and will check Directron for the drive right now …

Sure appreciate your patience with my hesitancy!

Linda:huh:

P.S. Just found this one on Directron: is it the right one?
Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 3.5in 1TB SATA 3.0Gb/s Internal Hard Drive HDS721010CLA332, 7200RPM, 32MB Cache[/SIZE]

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1. once the “Plain Jane” is carefully installed in the docking station, do you know if it is “protected”, sort of as if it were in a case?
2. is a “Plain Jane” drive the same as an Internal drive? Seem to see those 2 on sites: internal or in cases.

P.S. Just found this one on Directron: is it the right one?
Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 3.5in 1TB SATA 3.0Gb/s Internal Hard Drive HDS721010CLA332, 7200RPM, 32MB Cache[/SIZE]

Linda,

Hello…
1. Yes once the HD is inserted into the docking station,it’s held in tight…..Might get “Dusty” after a while but still OK.

2. Yes the “Plain Jane” is an Internal drive … They make “Docking stations” for those who either don’t have the room in the PC, or want to be able to remove them (HD’s) to a more secure location (off site )

3. Ted has experience with one (Seagate) and i would trust his recommendation … As i said my paradigm is different than most, and have no knowledge about “Seagate”…. :cheers: Regards Fred

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I have a Seagate Free Agent Go 1 Tb Ext USB HD that I did exactly what you are discussing. I deleted all the pre-installed S/W, then Formated as NTFS and now use it to install all my Images for 3 PC’s on it. My PC and my wife’s PC I have saved multiple Images. My Granddaughter is out of state so I only have the first Image after I set up her new Laptop. Any of the pre-installed S/W that would not delete was gone after the format.

The Seagate Ext HD worked exactly as I thoguht it should.

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Looks like I have 2 workable solutions. Guess I have one of those “positive-positive” dilemmas to work out! A question for you, Ted:
** Is it technically simple to format the drive as you did (NTFS)? Those letters ring bells, but I can’t quite remember – believe it’s a type of format.

Sure appreciate the added opinion – options are always good!

Linda

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When the drive was plugged in it showed up in WE. I simply open it and began deleting. After that I went to that drive in My Computer and Right Clicked and chose Format. That’s all it took. I could have probably simply chose to Right Click and Format before deleting, but I did not think of that first.

As you are probably aware, I use Acronis True Image Home, both V 2010 and V 2011 for my wife’s and my PC to create Images, but any of the excellent apps mentioned within these forums should work fine.

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Progress report to 2 patient Loungers: just got off the phone with a local retailer (guess it should be nameless in a forum?). Found the following drive on sale on their site and the store will match the great sale price (($79.99): Seagate GoFlex 1.5TB Desktop USB 2.0. Best news is I can walk to the store to pick it up!

They’re holding it for me to pick up tomorrow but just wanted a final double check that this was the right one! I know it needs to be 3.5″. Do I need any extra cables or hardware for it?

Also, the store rep said I could go with a USB 2.0 as it’s backward compatible. Is he right about that? (not that I’m changing my mind regardless at this point!).

Thanks for ALL your help!!

Linda

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This is an Ext HD. It comes complete in a sealed enclosure. It connects via an included USB cable to a USB port on your PC. I actually have a smaller version (portable version) similar to this. Mine is smaller and easier to carry with me should I choose to do so. The Desktop version is a little larger and slightly less mobile as a result. Both come with the same S/W installed.

USB 2 is the older version of USB. I do not remember if you said, but a USB 3 port will work with a USB 2 device. I am not sure if the reverse is true, probably not. Most PC’s, if they have USB 3 ports also have USB 2 ports, although a USB 3 port should work fine with your USB 2 device.

You can generally see the difference between USB 2 and USB 3. The USB 2 ports and devices have black or white colored plastic tabs, the USB 3 generally have blue tabs.

31269-b51110_214e_13519-img6023s31270-images

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Wow, Ted, fabulous information + images. Thank you.

I must have been buzzed last night when I posted. Just reread what I’d said re. USB’s and I meant “store rep said I could go with a USB 3.0 as it’s backward compatible”, not USB 2.0. Sorry! From what you said, sounds like he was right (i.e., if I bought a 3.0 it would work in a 2.0 port), although your images suggest that they look quite different at one end anyway.

Think I’ll just stick with this 2.0. It is so well priced that I can upgrade to a 3.0 when we upgrade our computers (not for a while – both are under 2 years old).

Really appreciate all your help. I’ll post progress with the formatting and acquisition of a different backup software package (I do remember your earlier discussion of Acronis).

Linda

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This color coding is generally on both the PC USB plug and the device and cables. My granddaughters new PC had 1 each USB 2 port (had black plastic tabs) and 2 each USB 3 ports (blue plastic tab) This seems to be a standard although I have heard not all manufacturers use this color coding as standard.

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Okay. Think I’m all set – new Seagate in its box on my desk ready to go. Did some research re. backup programs on the forum and found this thread: http://windowssecrets.com/forums/showthread//146777-Imaging-a-hard-drive-again-%28and-again%29?highlight=acronis

Reading through it caused me a bit of panic, despite all the learning I did. Should I be doing a lot more reading and researching about how to backup before tackling the image backups on the new drive? Or do I just follow instructions in whichever program I go with (think it’s either Macrium Free or Acronis)?

Does Windows backup have a place here if I’m using one of the above programs?

I just want to be sure I do this right after working on the hardware segment for so long!! Will hold off on any actions beyond deleting the pre-installed software until I hear back – just in case.

Again, many thanks,

Linda

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Do you have Acronis TIH? If so make the Boot media first (actually I would do this for all Imaging apps) Acronis will fit on a CD. Boot to the CD, and choose to load Acronis when you get the option to load Acronis or Windows.

I always clean my PC completely of ALL temp files, etc. then defrag prior to creating an Image.

Once Acronis loads fully, choose Backup, then you will choose which partition to Image, then choose where to place the Image (your new USB HD). You will then tell it to start or proceed (I don’t remember the exact wording, sorry) It will create the Image then tell you it is complete.

Now comes the scary part (At least the first time). You should test the Image by rebooting to the Boot disk and choose Restore, then go through the steps an actually restore. This does 2 things, it shows the Image was created and will work to restore, and during thr restore it formats the Partition so it does a great job of completely defraging the partition by formating the restoring the Image.

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Great instructions, Ted. Thanks for taking so much time to put them together. Haven’t yet got Acronis – had been trying to decide between it and Macrium.

I follow all you say. Can I use a DVD-R for the boot? That seems to be all I have. If not, I’ll get what I need first.

The scary part as you said is this: You should test the Image by rebooting to the Boot disk and choose Restore, then go through the steps an actually restore.

Does that mean I will be reformatting my C: drive with the image? Yikes! What if I mess up the backup, won’t it mess up my current C drive, on which my business life reposes?

I have never backed up from a boot disk before nor have I tested the images I did make. It makes sense that one knows the backup is valid, but it’s beginning to seem too technical for me to do! Or is it just new and understandable once I try it.

Sorry to be such a nervous Nelly!

Linda

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You can use a DVD-R, it’s just a waste of space as you will only use a small part of it.

That is why I said it’s the scary part! You will not know if your Image works until you try it. The first time is very scary. That’s why if you follow the instructions you should be fine.

Quite some time ago, during the old Lounge format, I created step by step instructions for Acronis. mercyh also did the same forMacrium Reflect. Since these were done in the old Lounge the screen shots all are at the end of the post instead of where they should be. You should be able to decipher them.

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Okay. It will be scary, that’s for sure. I’m going to go at this very slowly and start on a day I can devote as much time as needed. Thanks for both sets of instructions. Will post back progress – or any further questions. Hope there will be none of the latter. I feel guilty about taking up so much of your – and other Loungers’ time – on one item! Sure appreciate – immensely – all the support and guidance!

It may be a couple of days, but I’ll get it done and post back.

Thanks again,

Linda

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Hi Medico/Ted and Clint, an update and not sure where this will show up as I’m actually replying to Ted’s posts #63 and 65.

Here’s where things stand with my new hard drive/backup:

[*]new GoFlex hard drive reformatted to clean out all its “out of the box” software
[*]Macrium Reflect Free installed, using defaults; it also installed WAIK
[*]internal drive cleaned up (using Dr. Who’s Super Disk Cleaner!)
[*]drive defragged
[*]opened Reflect to create recovery/boot CD
[*]it rejected both my CDs (CD-R) and DVDs (DVD-RW)
[*]closed program until I can buy the correct disks tomorrow; from the look of the screen, I will need to buy some CD-W or a USB Flash stick.

Do you see any glitches here? Hadn’t realized the CDs had to be a certain type (duh) – I have dozens of the CD-Rs!!

Current plan is to head out to pick up the needed CDs tomorrow and pick up where I left off. I found the older “how to” post you linked to and am using that as a guide as well.

If you have any further thoughts or warnings, please pass them on. Otherwise, I’ll go with current plan …

Thanks – getting there!

Linda

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Linda, I am glad to help. Imaging seems intimidating at first, but after the first time you will wonder what took you so long. It is such easy insurance. Any of the excellent apps mentioned in these forums will do the job for you. Either Acronis or Macrium Reflect are excellent choices. So are EaseUS ToDo V4 and Ghost and ImgBurn, and most likely several others. Each of us have our favorites. Good luck to you and happy Imaging.

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Interesting discussion – I have been using for a long time Storagecraft’s Shadowprotect Desktop and server products.
While it isn’t free (there is a 30 day trial) it has many great features – being able to Quick mount the backup (and it’s incrementals) as a read only drive to a) verify the backup and b) copy individual files with out a total restore.
Tubetech

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I don’t know if this will muddy the water, but it’s worth bearing in mind… I had a problem with an external hard drive, sometimes it was recognized, other times not. When it was recognized I couldn’t find any problems, and it worked for days, several utilities reported the disk as healthy. Finally I took the drive out of the enclosure, hitched it up as a bare drive with a gizmo I borrowed

See: http://www.amazon.com/SATA-Adapter-Cable-Power-Cord/dp/B001OOT804/ref=sr_1_9?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1340911699&sr=1-9&keywords=external+hard+drive+conector

The drive worked perfectly, and continues to do so in a new enclosure. Total cost less than $20.It’s worth bearing in mnd, the drive may be woking fine.

David

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Linda,

Have you tried substituting a known-good USB cable?

Regards,

Roy

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You could try using a docking station that allows you to connect via Esata or USB which if connected via esata would not need the decoder chip as would connect in the native sata mode of hdd. You would need to remove the HDD from the caddy as no need for it as will plug direct into docking station.
Amazon Have many to choose from

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This applies to an 3.5 inch HD in an external enclosure. A 2.5 inch HD designed for notebook computers will run on power supplied by the USB cable. The 3.5 HD will require an external power supply that will have a cable that will plug into the external drive case. It requires a power supply that is able to supply 5 volt and 12 volt power.

I had the same problem. Sometimes the external HD would show up but most of the time it wouldn’t. I took the 3.5 HD drive out of the external case and put it in a docking station and it worked perfect.

I then noticed by the sound that the external HD was having spin up problems. When it spun up properly, the HD worked. As soon as spin problems occurred the computer lost the HD. The Green LED on the power supply was dimming and then getting brighter and then dimmer.

The Power Supply that came with the external HD was bad. It was not very old, almost new. A google search revealed many problems with this power Supply. Being an Electronic Tech, I used a moto-tool to cut open the plastic case and discovered a burned out resistor and shorted diode. Not being able to tell the value of the resister, charcoaled, nor part # of the diode, I orderd a new power supply and the external usb HD worked perfect. Problem solved. Under full load the power supply voltages decreased to a lower level that would not operate the HD.

Again note this problem occurs with an 3.5 HD which will require an external for power.

Hope this helps.

Swabeefp

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This is not a direct answer to the question but maybe worth considering. I have external hard drives that work perfectly with some USB cables, but intermittently with most of them. In contrast, my GPS will work with a USB cable from the Dollar Store, but every other USB device I have acts as if that cable didn’t exist. It is worth-while to keep one expensive USB cable around to try whenever an external drive is intermittent.

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If you want the program to start with a Windows boot, place a shortcut in the following location:
C:UsersYourUserIDAppDataRoamingMicrosoftWindowsStart MenuProgramsStartup

Jerry

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I would also do a chkdsk /r. Open a command window by clicking on the Start Orb and type cmd followed by enter.

After the Command window opens, type chkdsk /r followed by enter.

You will probably get a message similar to “the disk has files locked and do you want to run chkdsk on the next boot y/n?”

type y followed by enter and reboot the computer.

You should get a prompt to run chkdsk on the next boot.

Jerry

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Thanks, will do the check disk later today and post results.

Also meant to mention that PC is under 2 years old so it seems kind of early for a hard disk failure – although I guess there can be “lemons” with disks as well as cars.

Linda

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Hard disks can fail at any time. Had a customer have his main hard disk die 3 months after he bought a brand new computer. I also bought a brand new disk for a computer build and it was DOA. (Dead on Arrival)

Jerry

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Jerry, could you provide another bit of help. I did the chkdsk last night but, not realizing how long it would take, had to go to bed before it was finished (60% done, working through “free spaces”). Set the alarm to get up and check it in a couple of hours. Found that computer had restarted in the usual way and all the chkdsk information was gone. Is there some way to locate that information or does the fact the computer rebooted mean all is well – despite Hard Disk Sentinel?

Thanks for your help … again!

Linda

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To locate your check disk log see this article.

I doubt a check disk would go along way in terms if fixing it, even with the “r” switch enabled.
You’ll also find that Hard Disk sentinel is far more sensitive than most other application of similar nature.
Post a screenshot of the SMART attributes if you can. Some attributes are far more ominous and serious than others.

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Thanks for the article and the advice re. HD Sentinel. I’ve attached a screenshot of the SMART results just now.

Linda

PS 2 “oops” – temp reported (since deleted from post) was for new HD. Found the chkdsk data thanks to your link. You’re right: it didn’t tell me what needed to be done. Did say there was no data in the bad sectors.

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I’m kind of stumped … again! Following Medico’s directions in post 56, the formatting of the new external hard drive went perfectly. Now I need backup software to create my image backups. I was hoping to use a free program and did a lot of reading in the Lounge on recommended ones. Macrium Free is one I had thought of and it looks as if it will do the job.

Question: given how important backing up is, am I safer to go with a purchased version? This PC has all our small business data on it (files are backed up daily in the cloud, using Mozy Home).

Thanks for any advice! Don’t want to proceed until I feel sure.

Linda

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HERE is a source (wikipedia) of information on SMART attributes to read through.

Much of the SMART attributes you’ll find will depend upon the hard drive manufacturer, they may have their own specific
attributes set into SMART and info on how to interpret them. (Many are vendor specific)

Your’s don’t look too bad though, at least not bad enough to effect an RMA right now, but I would definately keep an eye on
things and not soly rely on one drive, as I have also learned recently too.
I would also do a vendor specific search for their attributes and attempt to correlate them with what you have.
You might also correlate those values with what another utility shows as well, like CrystalDisk info. You’ll probably see some variation.
It’s also a good idea to find out what the hard drive vendor recommends, if any, in terms of a SMART monitoring tool too.

I’ve been seeing something similar to what your seeing with your drive with my Vertex EX3 SSD in terms of health and performance
degridation, but not nearly as pronounced. At this point an RMA is not possible. But the drive should be monitored regularly/closely.

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Question: given how important backing up is, am I safer to go with a purchased version? This PC has all our small business data on it (files are backed up daily in the cloud, using Mozy Home).

I just recently purchased the retail version of Macrium Pro, but I got by nicely with the free version for quite some time.
I purchased the retail version mostly for the ability to restore to dissimilar hardware, and the fact that I had been using it
it for a while and liked the app.
Your needs may vary, and it will depend upon what your specific needs are.

With the free version you will still be able to create very effective bootable USB and or CD/DVD disks, which is an absolute must have.
See this posting on how to create USB boot disks for Macrium.

Sky drive and other cloud based backup/sync services may prove usefull for certain things too. I just recently started
using Sky Drive for certain things. The main thing here is, more than one form of backup and not rely on a singularity.

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Fabulous, Clint. Thanks so much … and for getting back to me so quickly! I’m going to download Macrium now and then read re. bootable CD. I remember being “kindly but forcibly” told to do this in an earlier post! Thanks for the detailed info on how to do this specifically for the backup software I’m going with.

Re. my PC internal drive, appreciate the further information re. the SMART findings. Once this external drive is all set up and the images saved, I’ll get into that more fully by checking manufacturer specs and trying to learn more about what HD Sentinel is telling me.

Also glad to hear you use cloud-based services, too. It felt great when I was able to restore a file that I thought I’d lost!!

Will post back with progress.

Linda

PS Oops – read linked post and realized it is for bootable USB. I’m using CDs. Do you have another post for them? I’ll search the Lounge forums and Google, too, and post back.

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I have not used Macrium so I can not comment on your problems with the optical media type. I wonder if this is also a problem with the paid version, or are you using the paid version?

In Acronis TIH I just used plain old CD-R disks to create the Rescue Boot Disk, in versions 2010, 2011, and the new 2013. I then used these Rescue Boot Disks to create Images of both my wife’s and my PC’s. This version can also work with Images created by the older versions (at least 2010 and 2011 which I have).

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Thanks, Ted. Guess I’d better stick with Macrium now that it’s loaded and ready to go – aside from the disk issue. Had I known the glitch, of course, I’d have gone with the paid Acronis. Ah well. Another “joys of technology”!

Linda

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Just got back from store. Tech guy there said CD-R is really the same as CD-W and should work! I know CD/DVD slot works as there is no problem with any other CD or DVD. He suggested trying disk on another computer so I’ll do that on our laptop.

Can’t figure out why Macrium won’t take my CD. I’ve tried 2 or 3; will try a few more. Do they wear out? I’ve had this spindle of CDs for a few years I know.

Just in case, I purchased a USB stick and will resort to it if I can’t get the CDs to work. GRRR!

Linda

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You may decide in the end to purchase the Macrium Reflect Pro version. Who knows. The whole point is to find something that works for you and USE IT! The best Imaging tool in the world will not work unless you actually use it. If you do decide to try Acronis, there is a 30 day trial available.

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The spindle of CD’s and DVD’s I’m using are a year or two old as well. I also am perplexed why you are having problems with disk type. I have never heard of that. I have had a problem in the past with -RW disks. I still have a few but will not purchase any more.

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I do have DVD-RWs (mostly for recording from the TV). This is a bit off this forum’s topic, but what kind would you recommend?

As for my CD conundrum, I’ll post back after I’ve tried a few more times. This backup drive IS going to be set up by the end of today for sure!! Thanks for seeing me through this.

Linda

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I do not record from a TV. All my needs are fulfilled with the -R varieties. I just do not have a need to re-record on disks. I guess I would not have any recommendations.

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Got it. Thanks, Medico/Ted.

Linda

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Got the Rescue CD burned!;) Here’s what I did:

[*]tested CD-R by putting it in PC drive
[*]window came up with the usual options to burn files to CD, etc.
[*]I clicked “burn files to CD”
[*]opened Macrium Reflect to create the boot CD
[*]it worked!

Weird, but who cares?! Now off to read directions on creating the image …

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Okay. Just completed image backup. Followed Macrium’s instructions since I had version 5 and not 4.2. Now I’m supposed to do this, “the scary part”:

[*]You should test the Image by rebooting to the Boot disk and choose Restore, then go through the steps an actually restore. This does 2 things, it shows the Image was created and will work to restore, and during the restore it formats the Partition so it does a great job of completely defragging the partition by formating then restoring the Image.

I have extremely cold feet. Do I have what I need to do this safely? How does one boot from a CD?

OR, given what Macrium instructions say (below), can I make sure I have what I need by doing what they say (red text above and below image)

From Macrium instructions:
Macrium Reflect saves backup configurations using XML. Using an XML definition you can schedule a backup, generate a VBScript file for complex scenarios or simply create a desktop shortcut for instant running of your backup by clicking the shortcut icon.

In order to view your saved XML backup configurations, select the ‘Backup Definitions Files’ tab as shown below.

This will show all your saved XML configurations. By right clicking on the XML file, you are given the opportunity to rerun the backup, schedule it, create a desktop shortcut and many other functions.
End Macrium instructions

Sorry for such a long post, but wanted to make the second option clear.

Linda

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Here goes with another overly long post – sorry! I am beginning to realize why a lot of people don’t backup – it isn’t easy for us non-tech types. Still, now I’m up to my neck, I want to finish the task properly!! While awaiting input on testing my new image backup …

… earlier in this thread, a Lounger suggested the cable to my “old” external drive could be part of the issue with its “appearing and disappearing”. Thanks to the new external hard drive, I had a new cable handy to test. Just did and found I could access all the files on the first drive once I connected it with the new drives USB cable! HD Sentinel does, however, give it a health rating of only 40%.

I’m now trying to copy the image backups for the PC and laptop that were saved there onto the new drive so I can reformat it/clean it off to see if it’s okay to use again.

Question: here is a screenshot of the files on the old drive.
31944-files-on-old-HD

I think I copy only Image Backups (highlighted) and “WindowsImageBackup”. Correct?

Then, when I copied the highlighted one, here’s the result I got:
31945-Copying-Results
If I open the X folders, I get lists of backup images that resemble the checked one. I can copy them, but don’t know what to do with the additional folders listed inside the main one:
31946-Old-Drive-X-File-Contents
Do I just keep opening the folders that I’ve labeled Image Backups and copy the actual image (numbered file) or should I copy all the files in the folder? Or do I just forget all these original backups and go with the brand new one I did earlier today?

When I do try copying, I’m getting lots of errors. Final screenshot is a thumbnail.

Again, my apologies for so many questions and so much detail. Will leave it for now – am totally buzzed!

Many thanks,

Linda

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To boot to a CD, just insert the CD and reboot. If your Bios boot order is set to boot from Optical Media before the HD it should boot to the CD.

I do not know what Macrium does, but when I boot to the Acronis Rescue Disk, it first asks me if I wish to load Acronis or Windows. Obviously if I choose Acronis, it boots to the Acronis app directly without loading Windows. I then have similar options to loading Acronis from within Windows as far as Creating or Restoring an Image.

To get to all the other features of Acronis I have to load the app from within WIndows.

I cannot get a screen shot of what the Window looks like when I boot to the Rescue Disk because this is done outside of Windows. The window from within Windows looks different.

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#1. Test your bootable CD/DVD you just made before going any further.
Ensure that you can phyisically boot into the Macrium restore program.
Ensure that your BIOS is set up to allow booting to the CD/DVD ROM drive as a first choice boot option.

#2. Until you become familiar with the software, you do not need to be doing anything other than a simple backup and restore
of a single image. Stay away from most any other tabs, like “Backup Definition Files” et al.
31949-Untitled2

Select the primary drive your Windows OS is on.
Then select the drive you wish to store the image on…
31950-Untitled3

Don’t make it anymore complicated than it need be. Get comfortable using the program to create a simple image
that can be easily restored via the boot disk you just made. That should be your only goal right now;
Making an image and then successfully restoring it with the bootdisk.

If you want to get the backup images off of the old external drive use windows explorer to copy them off.
They will look something like this…
31951-Untitled1

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That was what I was trying to relay, but not having used Macrium it is difficult listing steps, etc. Thanks Clint

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How to boot from a CD;

You can run a simple test to see if you can boot to the CD/DVD drive straight up;
Insert the CD into the CD/DVD ROM drive, then restart your computer. If the Macrium Reflect software
comes up, but nothing else, you’ll be running from the bootdisk. (that’s it your set)

If your computer just boots back into the logon screen of your Windows operating system, you will need to configure your
BIOS to accept the CD/DVD ROM drive as a “first choice” of drive to look for something that can start your computer.

To boot into BIOS you must restart your computer and select the key on your keyboard that will allow you to enter the BIOS.
Your computer may actually tell you which key to enter, you may have to restart it and pay close attention to what is displayed.
After you have restarted your computer, and as soon as the lights on your keyboard have started to flicker, start tapping the key your
computer has designated as the BIOS entry key.

The F2 key is one of the more common keys designated as a BIOS entry key on many motherboards.

Once you are in the BIOS you will see many menus and sub menus. Look for the menu labeled “Boot”.

You will then be given the option to make your CD/DVD drive the first thing your computer looks to when loading
an operating system. If there is nothing in your CD/DVD ROM drive your computer can use to initiate, it
will move on to other drives, like the hard drive your operating system is loaded on.

Hope this helps
CLiNT

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Hi guys,

Thanks so much for your detailed responses. I know, I am probably making it more difficult than I should, but it really does make me nervous, especially the “try it” part!

I have created the image and saved it on my new hard drive (it’s called “Disk Partition Image” and is over 33 million KB). That’s my new “image” I can backup to if the hard drive fails. Correct?

I’m now going to test the Boot CD, following the directions Clint provided. I suspect the PC boots to Windows, but now know how to change that! Will keep your directions visible on the laptop – and post back.

Linda

RESULTS
– booted successfully to CD (had an option on restart to “select any key to boot to CD”) and Macrium came up
– had a screen about missing drivers for Ethernet Controller and Network Controller: program found on C drive and loaded (10 times!!) the network one but not the ethernet one; not currently using any ethernet connections (I don’t think) so cancelled and moved on
– got the Macrium screen with my image listed and options to Browse or Verify or Restore Image
– stopped there until I ask what I select: do I go for the Restore? That’s the scary one, as Ted acknowledged and i’m currently feeling! Or can I just verify?

Will hold off until I hear back and I do realize it’s Sunday!

Linda

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Your Image should be stored off the HD, like on an Ext HD. The copy stored on the HD will work if your OS is fudged up, but if the HD fails, your Image will be gone as well.

Verify will be a start, but that does not prove the Image will restore properly. Unfortunately the only way to prove that is to restore the Image.

As Clint states above: “Don’t make it anymore complicated than it need be. Get comfortable using the program to create a simple image
that can be easily restored via the boot disk you just made. That should be your only goal right now;
Making an image and then successfully restoring it with the bootdisk.”

Like I said, it’s scary, but what happens if you have some very important going on and you need it to work and it does not? Is it better to prove that now or then?

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Thanks so much for your fast – and reassuring – response. Sounds as if you are saying to select “restore” (as you’ve been saying all along). I will … now … with fingers and toes all crossed!

As for where the image is, it is on my brand new external hard drive which HD Sentinel has informed me is in “Perfect” condition. All pre-installed software was stripped before saving the image so it’s the only file there at the moment.

Will post back with results.

Linda

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Very good choice on the Ext HD. Good Luck Linda!

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YAY!! It worked! Macrium finished restoring, I closed it and the PC rebooted … and it looks exactly as it did. WOW! and phew. Thank you SO much for holding my hand through all this. I will focus only on the images as suggested until I get used to the program. I should test the image each time I make one the same way. Correct?

Again, many thanks. It’s been a real learning experience and this thread has all the “notes” for future times.

Linda:fanfare::clapping:

P.S. Now I can see the big red Backup repeated in your signature, Medico, and NOT feel guilty!

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Yea! :clapping: :thewave: :bananas:. Yes, test each Image the same way. If you find one that does not work, just fall back to the last one and catch up. Obviously your data should be backed up separately.

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Love your post – thanks! Pretty well sums up how I feel. It is great to know that a little CD holds security for my PC system. And yes, I do back up data, in the cloud pretty much. Still have more to learn about backing up, but feel so great to have this long-put-off hurdle overcome.

Linda:D

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After reading your post about your positive results, I was spurred to create another Image because I had just installed a couple new apps. Normally I make at least monthly Images (right after patch Tuesday), but I often do create an Image when I change my system with new additions or deletions, etc.

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Nice job :cheers:

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Thanks – very much – to both of you and this Lounge … again!

Linda

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Not sure any of you are still checking this thread but thought I’d post on it first … a few questions I hope you don’t mind answering.

[*]Just created second image. In re-reading earlier posts, saw that you recommend I do that scary test again to ensure new image works. Is that necessary? (I’m hoping you say “don’t worry this time!!).
[*]If so, I use my boot CD, open Macrium from it and (gulp) select “Restore” to test the new image. Is that correct?
[*]Now I need to image the laptop. Do I have to create a new boot CD for it first?

Thanks again. I’ll try to do these image backups more often so I establish a routine and know the steps more instinctively.

Linda

P.S. Finally read welcome email from Macrium and noticed link to a KB article on how to image – duh! Thought it could help others: http://kb.macrium.com/KnowledgebaseArticle50074.aspx

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Do I have to create a new boot CD for it first?
Linda

IreneLinda,
Hello… Macrium recomends that you create a new “Boot Disk” if you update to newer versions … They release them every so often…Don’t know if your running the “pay for” or “free version”… However if you did “Update” then Burn a new CD, and test it to be sure that it will boot your system ( Keep the old one …just in case)…Regards Fred

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Oops, somehow in the Christmas prep chaos, I lost your post, JP Fred! Sorry. I have the free Macrium currently. Will create the new CD if I upgrade as you suggested. Still haven’t got around to getting this all done for the laptop, but will keep these posts handy when I do … and report back with success or follow up questions!

Thanks for your input!

Linda

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It’s been a while, but … Went to backup PC just now and Macrium offered a download to a new version.

2 Questions (topic 1):

1. Do I download it?
2. If I do, is this the time I make a new boot CD as J P Fred suggested in #129?

1 Question Topic 2: hard disk health

In Hard Disk Sentinel (still free version) my C drive has now been registering 48% “health” with 38 bad sectors and “excellent” performance since December 12, 2012. Does this suggest it may NOT be failing after all, just picking up some bad sectors? I still plan to install the new drive (which I have bought) – I’m just curious.

Thanks,

Linda

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No
Once you’ve established that you can effectively restore an image via your created bootable disk, one time is good. (desktop)
If your Macrium boot disk works on your laptop, then no need to make another.
Verify the image by doing a restore, if you have not already done so on the laptop. Remember to include any hidden partitions.

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Thanks for your super fast reply, Clint – and for more helpful information. Will be sure to do the scary restore after I create the laptop image!

One clarification:

Remember to include any hidden partitions.

Is there something I need to do to ensure I have included them? Sorry, but I know little about partitions, except that you can partition disks. I never have, however!

Again, many thanks!

Linda:)

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Yes, by all means, you may download the latest version. I know Macrium installs over my current version without issue.
I have been able to use the same boot disk that I had previously made, but you may want to test it to ensure
it’s continuing viability with the new version, as I have.

When in doubt about any particular hardware monitoring app, get a second, or even a third opinion, by downloading
one of the many hard drive S.M.A.R.T monitoring tools we’ve previously mentioned.
If all these tools (generally) concur with each other, then you may start planning for a new drive.

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Okay and thanks. I will do some further checking on the current disk and will download Reflect update now.

you may want to test it to ensure it’s continuing viability with the new version, as I have.

To test, do I just boot from the original CD and see what happens?

Linda

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Yes, boot from the disk you have made and locate your backups on the external drive.
If everything checks out you should be good to go.

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Thanks, Clint!!

Linda

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