I have a 2TB Seagate HDD with the following details:

- SATA
- 2.5"
- 2TB
- 5400 RPM
- Firmware SDM2
- WWN: 5000C500BAB3832D
- ST2000LM007

It was used as a second drive on my laptop, never had any issues. Possible causes of the issue:
- Laptop fell from about half a meter height. The disk was pretty well put in and after the fall still firm in its position.
- The laptop has had problems with the battery for about a month. After the fall it would shutdown after a few seconds from startup. Disconnected the battery and works fine just with cable.

Behavior:
Whether put on the same laptop internally, or connected externally to the laptop or another desktop computer via USB disk case, the disk is not recognized anymore by partition management tools (e.g. KDE Partition Manager). It makes small mechanical noises. Due to the events, I don't believe there's damage in the data (e.g. bad sectors).

What should I look for in terms of identifying the problem and finding a data recovery solution? Living in rural Peru under quarantine the chances to find an expert to help are non-existent.

Heads are possibly stuck, but they might already be completely torn off or damaged otherwise.
I'm afraid the best chances are with an experienced dr specialist, as the drive was dropped with the laptop. Consider finding someone in your area or sending it out for recovery, if it is important/urgent.
DIY attempt will screw it up most probably.

pepe

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Adatmentés - Data recovery