Admin's RAID Data Recovery Guide

Hard Drive Repair

Your hard drive is a mess and now you have to get it repaired. Hard drive repair is simple and fast when dealt with right away and handled by experts. One of the things to be aware of is the proper way of getting it to the data recovery specialist. It is very important to pack it carefully in order to avoid further damage. With proper packaging, your chance of recovering your data is increased.

How to Package a Hard Drive for Hard Drive Repair (without original packaging)

1. when removing the media from your computer, call for the assistance of an expert if you are unsure of the procedure.
2. wrap the media in an anti-static bag or similar material (aluminum foil is sometimes recommended).
3. use a box at least twice the size of the media so that the media can be suspended in the middle of the package.
4. pack the media securely with foam, bubble wrap or crumpled-up newspaper so the device will not move from the middle of the box. Use at least six inches of insulation.
5. clearly label your package as FRAGILE.

Never be afraid to "over-package" your hard drive when sending it for hard drive repair. If you are sending a computer, laptop or PDA device, proper packaging is even more critical. Proper protection and cushioning is not only essential for safe-guarding the data but also the device.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the shock we sometimes receive after walking across a carpet (more commonly referred to as static electricity). In a technical environment, ESD can harm your media. To avoid ESD, follow these tips:

• before moving your computer, hard drive or other component, discharge any personal static electricity build-up by touching a grounded metal object, such as a plugged-in computer chassis.
• handle a hard disk drive delicately and pick it up by the sides. Try not to touch the top or bottom of the drive if possible.