Looking for WD5000KS-00MNB0
DATE:26 OCT 2006
DCM: HBACAJAHB

or

PCB: 2060-701383-001 REV 1

My drive is not seen in BIOS and does not spin. I am taking a guess that it may be PCB issue and would like to take a chance on a swap out.

A simple PCB Swap won't solve your problem. The PCB stores unique data on the new WD's.

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Data Recovery Ireland

Have you had similar experiences with trying to recover data from a similar type drive / issue? I'm trying to figure out what to do next. I understand that a data recovery service might be the only option but the pricing on such services is above what I can spend at the present time. Do I have other options?

I've had a few of them in for DR, but it involves resoldering the CPU from the patient PCB to the donor PCB, which is a tough task. Certainly not something for the faint-hearted. If you need it badly, don't try a home repair, put it somewhere safe until you can afford to have it recovered by a pro.

Firstly though, you need to be sure it's a PCB problem. Any visible damage or burning smell on the PCB?

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Data Recovery Ireland

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions.

No visible damage or burning smell anywhere on the PCB or anywhere else on the drive. I have tried the drive on another computer as well, both as an internal drive and in an external enclosure. I have tried powering this drive both on the sata power side and then on the legacy power side. I have also tried different SATA cables. Drive is not seen in BIOS and no spin or noise.

Prior to this issue, no real problems with the drive.

Sounds like a PCB for sure. The motor controller is a common failure on WD's but you would generally be able to see and/or smell the damage. You can try any WD5000KS PCB to see if that's the problem (the drive should spin with another PCB but won't calibrate). If it spins, then you need to have the CPU swapped (not something you can do). If you need to get your data, probably better off seeing a Pro. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. I'm sure there is someone on this forum who can help you if you post where you live.

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Data Recovery Ireland

Thanks again for the help! Any guess on what the cost would be for this kind of DR?

I am located in Syracuse, NY

rchadwick is a well respected member of this forum and he's in NJ, i'm sure he'd be happy to help you. Regarding costs, I've no idea what he charges, but expect $700+, this is not an easy job (parts + very difficult soldering + expertise).

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Data Recovery Ireland