Can't see Samsung HD501LJ - but it spins without problem

[kongsted]

Hi,

I'm trying to fix a computer, where the HDD is dead. I have installed a new HDD, installed the OS - no problem.
After I installed the OS, my problem starts, when I was trying to access the old HDD. It's not my own computer, and the only error-description was "the computer doesn't work".
I can't see the HDD (Samsung HD501LJ) at all. I have tried with the old SATA-cable, another SATA-cable and an external dock for SATA-disk's. I can't see the disk at all. The computer doesn't even notice an external drive is attached.
I have read some other topic in this forum, and can see that some people have some burned components. I have looked carefully on the drive, and I couldn't find any burned components.
Does anyone have a good idea for the problem - and maybe a solution?

Best regards
Anders

[pcimage]

It sounds perfectly normal?

With normal spin-up and calibration sounds and carries on spinning?

[kongsted]

Yes, everything sounds normal when I put my ear to the drive. I have no similar disk's, so I doesn't know it's exactly "sound sequence", but it's sounds normal to me.

[kongsted]

Has anyone positive experience with replacement of the electronics on the disk?
I'm considering to buy an identical disk, and replace the circuit board on the defective disk with the new.

[pcimage]

Very much doubt it's the PCB, more like firmware issues.

e.g. Corrupt G-List or smart

You need specialist kit for this.