I have a ST1000LM024 (rebranded Samsung HN-M101MBB) which used to be inside a USB enclosure. Beeps for five seconds when powered up
(audio here), then it stops. In 1 out of 5 power-ups clicks can be heard for about two seconds, then the beeps, then it stops.
As far as I can know this means there's a problem with the heads. I am willing to bet the drive was dropped at some point, but I was told it stopped working all of a sudden. Sounds like an excuse to me, but let's leave that aside for the moment.
I would like to know, what's the most likely failure mode that explains those beeps?