Transferring data

[debsus]

My Inspiron 600M recently went blank and there was a burnt smell. Clear day, computer was plugged in. The machine is now dead. Under warranty, Dell is sending me a new laptop.

Do you think that the hard drive is still okay? If remove it, should I be able to transfer the data from the hard drive to another computer with something like Newer Tech's USB 2.0 Universal Drive Adapter?

I read some other answers to data transfer questions -- and some of you mentionned "slave" the drive -- what does this mean? Also, is there anyone who has the tools and know how who could do this easily and inexpensively?

Of course, the hard drive could have been fried when whatever else was burnt.

Thank you for your help on this. Most of my data is backed up -- but there are always those few small items.....

Debbie

[bobbyb]

Go to Staples or Office Depot and get a Mobile Disk External Data Storage case for a laptop hard drive (I have one in my hand). They cost about $20.00. It will include all the hardware and cables. Take the HD out of the old Dell and put into the Mobil Disk case, simple to do. You will then be able to plug the HD into the new computer's USB port and transfer all the data you want. PM me if you have an questions.
Bob

[bobbyb]

PS: I believe that Dell HDs come without any extra hardware, unlike Compaq. If the HD has extra hardware on just take it off. Some of the Dell HDs have a pin extender on them. Just pull (wiggle) it off very carefully so as not to bend any of the pins on the HD.

If you bend a pin or two, bend them back very very carefully and gently.

The Mobile Disk looks like this without the HD in it.

www.officedepot.com/textSearch.do?uniqueSearchFlag=true&Ntt=mobile+disk

Bob.

Originally Posted by debsus

My Inspiron 600M recently went blank and there was a burnt smell. Clear day, computer was plugged in. The machine is now dead. Under warranty, Dell is sending me a new laptop.

Do you think that the hard drive is still okay? If remove it, should I be able to transfer the data from the hard drive to another computer with something like Newer Tech's USB 2.0 Universal Drive Adapter?

I read some other answers to data transfer questions -- and some of you mentionned "slave" the drive -- what does this mean? Also, is there anyone who has the tools and know how who could do this easily and inexpensively?

Of course, the hard drive could have been fried when whatever else was burnt.

Thank you for your help on this. Most of my data is backed up -- but there are always those few small items.....

Debbie

I own a newtech drive adap - works fine

[bobbyb]

Sounds interesting can you provide a link?

Bob

[debsus]

thank you! tomorrow -- will let you know!

Debbie

Originally Posted by bobbyb

Sounds interesting can you provide a link?

Bob

http://eshop.macsales.com/item-speci...y/U2NVSPATARH/

http://eshop.macsales.com/item-speci.../U2NVSPATAKIT/


not sure what the difference is besides price ........

[bobbyb]

Ok I have seen these and they work well. I happen to like Mobile Disk because it makes a neat package. Either way will work to save your data.

[ComputerDoctor]

Hello Debbie,

Unfortunately I have seen this problem far to often with Dell computers! I have had several customers complain of a burning-like odor, and then their system suddenly shuts of. After shutting off the computer does not come back on. At best, some report 2-3 beeps, but Windows does not load. Talk about scary!

When I opened their computers, I had found the cause of the problem to be a faulty, overheated memory module. I am not sure this is the cause of your problem, as I have not personally seen the computer. However, I'm pretty sure that your hard disk would NOT be the cause of your problem. I have yet to see a smoking/burning hard disk . If your hard disk is not the problem, all of your data & files are still present and likely recoverable.


But as mentioned above, the best option is to purchase a mobile hard drive case to put the computer's hard disk in. The hard disk is what stores your critical data such as office documents, photos, etc. With this mobile hard drive utility you can transfer your old files and data to a "living" computer via USB, as mentioned above. Once you do this, I'd recommend burning a CD/DVD backup of your important data to ensure that it's safe & sound.

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to PM me, or reply to this forum. I'll gladly help you as much as I can!

Christopher A.

[debsus]

Thank you! This is encouraging -- most of the data is backed up......and, I have just ordered the Newer Tech USB 2.0 Universal Drive Adapter -
http://www.newertech.com/products/usb2_adapt.php

to save the few documents, photos that weren't....

....Debbie