Damage
What Are “Bad Sectors” On a Hard Drive?
Bad sectors occur when a hard drive cannot read certain data. Here’s how bad sectors occur and several tips for avoiding data…
R&D
Guides, research, and lab notes from the Datarecovery.com laboratories
Media
How Do Solid State Drives Store Data?
Solid state drives (SSDs) store files electronically using non-volatile memory. Here’s an overview of how they provide reliable data storage.
Data Recovery Knowledge
Data Recovery for Toshiba DT01ACA Series Hard Drives
The Toshiba DT01ACA series is reliable, but hard drive failures can still occur. Here’s a look at common scenarios and data recovery…
Damage
Can Data Recovery Software Fix a Corrupted Hard Drive?
Data recovery software might fix a corrupted hard drive, or cause permanent data loss. Before attempting recovery, understand the risks.
Data Loss Prevention
What Is A Hard Drive Controller?
A hard drive controller transfers data to and from the computer’s CPU. Here’s an overview of this component along with common failure…
Data Loss Prevention
What is the Hard Drive Actuator Assembly?
The hard drive actuator assembly includes several components that read and write data from the platters (or disks). Here’s an overview.
Hard Disk
What is a Hard Drive’s Landing Zone?
A hard drive’s landing zone (or LZone, or LZ) identifies the parking location of the read/write heads. Here’s a detailed description.
Data Loss Prevention
Are Used Hard Drives and SSDs Less Reliable?
Buying used hard drives can save you money, but “refurbished” storage media carries significant risks. Here’s what you need to know.
Damage
How Does A Surge Protector Prevent Hard Drive Failures?
All electronic devices need to be connected to a surge protector, and that’s particularly true for devices that store data. Hard drives…
Damage
Can An Improper Computer Shutdown Damage Your Hard Drive?
An improper PC shutdown probably isn’t a big deal, but it could cause a hard drive failure. Here’s an overview of the…
Damage
High Altitudes Can Cause Hard Drive Failures
Operating a hard drive at over 10,000 feet can put data at risk. Here’s an explanation of why HDD failures are more…
Data Loss Prevention
Converting Analog Video to Digital: Questions to Ask Service Providers
The VCRs of the world are breaking down. Functioning film projectors are increasingly hard to find. Tapes and film degrade with every…
Data Loss Prevention
“Vinegar Syndrome” and Other Signs of Analog Film Damage
If your family recorded home videos between the 1930s and the 1970s, odds are they captured that vacation or piano recital on…
Need help with data recovery?
Get a free evaluation and quote. No data, no charge.
Start data recovery