How to fix a fixed disk failure

Updated: 06/14/2020 by Computer Hope

Hard drive not set up properly in BIOS

Computer hard drive

Verify that the hard drive is configured in BIOS setup as Auto, or that it is properly manually configured. You can find hard drive BIOS settings on our hard drive specifications page.

Hard drive not detected

If you've recently installed any new hardware, it's suggested that it be removed to verify it's not causing this issue. If, after the device is removed, the computer works and it was another IDE/EIDE device, verify the hard drive jumpers are properly set.

If you've recently moved the computer or installed anything inside the computer, re-check the drive connections. Usually, it's best to disconnect the cables from the back of the drive and reconnect them to make sure they're connected properly. While inside, also disconnect and reconnect the cable connected to the motherboard.

Caution

When working inside your computer, make sure you're aware of ESD (electrostatic discharge).

Hard drive not set up

See if the hard drive is detected by fdisk. If the hard drive is detected but does not have a partition, create a new partition using fdisk. Additional information and help with fdisk is available on our fdisk page.

If you followed the above steps and continue to experience the same issue, the hard drive or the controller is bad.

If available, you may want to connect another known good hard drive to the computer to determine if it can be detected. If it is detected then replace your hard drive. If it is not detected, unfortunately you must replace the motherboard or controller.

If no additional hard drive is available, we recommend the hard drive be replaced first or that the computer be serviced or repaired.