external hard drive wont connect to PC without formatting first

[JOSHLAREDO]

now recovering 1018GB (full drive) 1.2 days and counting, looks about 3rd done.  lol thanks again, first time Computer hope user, can confirm, much help.

[patio]

You stated you bought a liscense...did the Free version not work properly for you ? ?

[Geek-9pm]

The free version has limitations. So it is not really 'free'.
There are many positive reviews on the EASUS data recovery software.
Herve is one I founds that is more critical:
http://malwaretips.com/threads/easeus-data-recovery-wizard-8-softpedia-review.30340/
Posted in August 2012.

Last year we reviewed the professional edition of EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, a highly intuitive application designed to identify and recover deleted files, regardless of the deletion method applied...
It looked quite promising but failed to meet our expectations when it came to tricky deletions, from normal format and upward. Last month the developers launched a new version for EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, which includes a complete redesign toward looks, structure and some features...
In terms of trial limitations, price and installation, version 8 remains the same. There is no expiration date attached to the trial edition, but users can only search for files and preview them. To unlock this restriction, they have to purchase the full package $69.95 / €59.05.

So, if the review is right, you don't get your stuff back until you pay.

The 'free' version is rally a proof of ability trail.
Still, the going price for data recovery is about $300 per drive. Or more.

[patio]

It's actually closer to $500.00...