is there any way possible to retrieve data from an hdd that is encrypted without using decryption chip on sata to usb controller? drive is a 500gb wd. enclosure reads wdba5000ebk-00. drive itself is wd5000aads. pcb on back of drive - 2061-701640-402. sata to usb controller board-4061-705059-001 rev ae(white sticker). 4061-705059-001 rev a (printed on board itself)

Hi,

Yes, it's possible, with another PCB with same encryption chip.

So, is the encryption chip on the pcb or the sata to usb controller? I believe its the initio chip the the latter,correct? If so, do I have to find same model sata to usb controller on pcb on back of drive itself?

It's the initio chip, you're right.
But be careful, as for a for a PCB swap, there's other things to take in mind.

So, what other things do I have to keep in mind? Also, if all I need is sata to usb with same Initio chip, do I have to change pcb on back of drive itself? Sorry if my terms are not correct... sata to usb controller is removable one correct? Actual pcb is screwed directly to drive, correct?

What you should do is get another USB PCB with same initio chip and swap original ROM into it.

But if your data is important, it's better to go to a pro and get a proper diagnosis and quote, because it's a dangerous job for a novice.

Yes the data is important. Took it to a professional data recovery center and they resoldered usb connection onto usb pcb. Then said they couldn't get any data because it would not decrypt data. So, to get usb pcb with same initio chip what #s do i match. Also, what rom do i swap? Everywhere i read says U12 . U12 is on the drive's pcb ,not usb pcb.

Are you sure you went to a data recovery specialist or to a computer shop?